General History of Laurasia, 1114-1151

This is Part IV of the General History of Laurasia, spanning from the First Great Goldarian War (1114) to the implementation of the Codex Arascanius (1151).

History of Laurasia, Part V

The Third Laurasian Period (1080-1321) cont.

Barbarian Invasions and Collapse of the Dasian Khanates (1080-1253) cont.

The First Great Goldarian War in the Venasian Khanate; Short-Lived Fortunes for the Laurasian State; Rise of Tenthius; The Death of Mengli-Giray and the Ascension of his anti-Laurasian Son Mehmed; Renewal of the Anti-Laurasian Alliance (1114-1115)

During the period of the Truce, all of the states involved in the conflict focused their efforts on mustering their military resources, recovering from the losses suffered in the campaigns, and maintaining their states against their enemies. Arasces and his commanders decided to employ their Solidaritan units in their future campaigns, hoping that they might shift the war to Laurasia's favor. The King wished to invade the Venasian Cluster and to extract concessions from the Venasian Khanate, which would thus be forced out of the conflict. With footholds and strongholds in Venasian territory under their control, the Laurasians would then advance into Schaueria Prime, to liberate Murphy and force Bastilla to come to terms. It was thus the Laurasian hope that these victories would strengthen their position. Goldaria could then be defeated, and Laurasian overlordship reimposed over Melarnaria, Clancia, and Teth. Marshia would also become a Laurasian vassal. Tenthius, on his part, wished to expel the Laurasians from the Central Core, consolidate the gains of the alliance, and reduce Laurasian power. He was also beginning to nurture his own ambitions for the Goldarian-Marshian throne.

When the Truces among the various warring states expired on 19 March, each side involved launched a series of offensives. A Laurasian-Solidaritan armada, which had been assembled at Leopoldia, invaded the Venasian Khanate (21 March 1114), combining with the Laurasian units and squadrons which had already occupied the Venasian territories east of the Home Cluster. Erutugul, who was still the Lord of the Solidaritans, led his forces to a series of victories against Qasim II, who had now advanced from Eutagia. He sacked Hapes (23-27 March 1114); plundered Thasdornia (1 April 1114); seized Ruttum (2-5 April 1114); and secured Venasia Secondary (9 April 1114). A attempt by Qasim II to recover Monderon was defeated in the Battle of Peril (10-14 April 1114). By the end of April, Venasia Prime itself and the Matriarchal Worlds were under threat. The Laurasian advances had also allowed Mengli-Giray to recover his position. Hooper was reconquered (30 March 1114), followed by Eutagia (7 April 1114) and Sanegeta (13 April 1114). Venasian advance units were destroyed at George and Nagalia (15-19 April 1114). Giray then conquered Podrac (23 April 1114) and fortified the eastern Oglamerian systems. Finally, Qasim II was cornered by Erutugul and Mengli-Giray at Parim (25 April 1114). The Khan's forces were handed a decisive defeat, with the Khan himself being captured by the Laurasians and Crimeanians. He was taken to the world of Pulaski, where he was forced to sign the Treaty of Pulaski (2 May 1114). By the terms of this treaty, Qasim terminated his alliance with Bastilla Dondonna, Salasthrold, and Lopae, agreed to pay a indemnity to Laurasia and the Crimeanian Khanate, and limited the size of his military forces. As regards to territory, Laurasia acquired Monderon, Permi, Organia, and the worlds of the Devine Triangle, while the Crimeanian Khanate acquired Podrac and the territories of the Brentark Despotate. Qasim also agreed that Laurasian and Crimeanian units could be stationed in Venasian territories that bordered Schaueria Prime.

With the Venasian Khanate out of the war, Arasces and Mengli-Giray were now able to apply more pressure on Schaueria Prime. You'casy, who had fled with his remaining units to Saray, urged his allies to launch a general offensive against Salasthrold and Bastilla Dondonna in the eastern Core Worlds. On 4 May 1114, Laurasian forces at Monderon, Organia, Permi, Wernay, Ruttum, and Ipsus V launched a major invasion of Schauerian territories. Two days later, Crimeanian units attacked the Prelone Asteroid Belt, Anusia, Tommy, Hammenor, and Hickoris V. The Laurasians conquered Selena (4-7 May 1114), followed by Colsonia (10 May 1114); Archleuta (11 May 1114); and Patty (15-17 May 1114). A Schauerian force sent by Bastilla to deflect the Laurasian armadas in the Decapolian star systems was defeated in the Battle of Uber-Commerce (20-23 May 1114). Decapolia Major itself was conquered by the Laurasians (26 May 1114), followed by Philiana (28-30 May 1114). The Crimeanians, in the meantime, had recovered Tommy for the Laurasians (4-8 May 1114); reconquered the Prelone Asteroid Belt (10 May 1114); and subdued Hammenor (12 May 1114).

By the end of the month, Crimeanian forces had cut off Schauerian units ahead of Murphy and Danigia. On 3 June 1114, Bastilla and Salasthrold launched a surprise offensive against a Crimeanian-Laurasian force commanded by Mengli-Giray at Catilin, a Schauerian fortress world which had been established after the seizure of Murphian territories. Arasces' general of operations, Pausanius Rallanies (1061-1125), who had been campaigning to the north, hurried south and cut off Bastilla's units. The Battle of Catilin then shifted in favor of the Laurasians and Crimeanians. The Schauerian-Goldarian fleet was defeated. Bastilla herself was captured by the Laurasians, and Salasthrold was forced to retreat. With this victory, Mengli-Giray and Arasces were able to force Bastilla to come to terms. The Treaty of Danigia (16 June 1114), resulted in the restoration of You'casy to rule of his Murphian dominions. Bastilla agreed to the concession of Hammenor, Selena, and Colsonia to Laurasia, terminated her alliance with Salasthrold, and granted the King of Laurasia privileges to station troops in her territories. She also agreed to pay both Mengli-Giray and Arasces compensation for their efforts against her.

With both the Venasian Khanate and Schaueria Prime out of the war, Laurasia and Crimeania could now focus their efforts on Goldaria in the Central Core. Since the lapse of the Truce on 19 March, Laurasian forces had concentrated on recovering territory in Melarnaria and defending their remaining Clancian strongholds against further advances by Tenthius. Paramine was reconquered (20-25 March 1114) followed by Seniolio (29 March 1114) and Beritvetti (1-3 April 1114). Tenthius however, defeated another Laurasian offensive against Williams (4-9 April 1114) and crushed a starfighter squadron sent to raid the Goldarian-Melarnarian defenses on Margarina (10-14 April 1114). He subsequently conquered Dramis (19-24 April 1114) and harried Condtella (29 April-2 May 1114). For the next month, a stalemate then ensued, as Tenthius found himself unable to advance against Maroni, Janesia, and Dearton's Gateway, which would have offered him access to the Core Worlds. Then, after 16 June, with units freed from the war against Schaueria Prime, Arasces and Mengli-Giray agreed to a series of offensives into the Central Core. Crimeanian, Laurasian, and Murphian units, using Denver, Galicia, and Tadarmina in the southern Outer Core as bases, would invade Carina, Seejay Prime, and Ivoria, which comprised Goldaria's southern dominions. A Laurasian-Solidaritan force, under the command of Erutugul, would advance from Tommy and Meaganian against Marshia. A final force, under the command of Arasces himself, would engage Tenthius to recover the lost Clancian worlds.

On 18 June 1114, Operation Maxima was launched. In the southern Central Core, Mengli-Giray obtained a major victory in the Battle of Muppet, fought that day. Mommica (20 June 1114); Olivia (23 June 1114); and the Sort Drift (25-29 June 1114) fell in succession. Carina itself was besieged from 31 June, falling to Mengli-Giray on 3 July. Salasthrold then led a force against the Crimeanians at Stenbock (5-9 July 1114), suffering a major defeat. By the middle of July, Constancia had also been conquered, and most of the southern Central Core except Seejay Prime had been secured. The Laurasians under Erutugul, in the meantime, had conquered Elainsborough (16-23 June 1114); harried Sonnia (28-29 June 1114); and sacked Yularen (30 June 1114). Marshia was besieged from 7 July, finally falling on 21 July. Salasthrold proved unable to halt the southern advances. In the Northern Central Core, Arasces struggled with Tenthius. He reconquered Dramis (20-25 June 1114) and attacked Williams again (29 June-4 July 1114), finally conquering that world. Tenthius however, subdued Maroni (5-9 July 1114) and blunted a Laurasian offensive against Condtella (10-15 July 1114).

On 23 July, he launched a major attack against Dearton's Gateway, attempting to penetrate into the Purse Region. Arasces however, had organized a effective defense, and he repelled the Goldarian forces. Two days later, Erutugul and his force, having secured Marshia and Yularen, launched a offensive against Tenthius' forces at Teth, Goss Beacon, and Ereuctus. They gained a major victory in the Battle of Teth (27 July 1114), disrupting their rival's command lines, and then chased the Goldarian units away from Goss Beacon, Taxiles the Great, and Hajudrau (29 July-2 August 1114). Two days later, Arasces reconquered Condtella, forcing Tenthius to retreat south. Conservan and Reoyania were then seized (3-7 August 1114), although the Laurasians suffered severe casualties. The Laurasians then executed a surprise offensive against Melarnaria (8-17 August 1114), driving Nikolai from his capital world and seizing its vast treasure. By the end of August, the Laurasians had recovered the last of their Clancian strongholds from the Goldarians.

Tenthius was now retreating south with his forces, and he managed to evade the enemy armadas, eluding their attempts to capture him and launching provocative raids against their supply lines. He was now desperate, and wished to find a way to annihilate the forces of his enemies. It was now suggested to him that he attempt a tactic of trickery: he could use secret hyperspace routes and false signals to lure the enemy armadas to the Galactic Center, whence they would be engulfed by the black hole of the Caladarian Galaxy. Tenthius believed that it could work, and he decided that his force would flee towards the Center along the routes, pursued by the unknowing enemy armadas. Then, they would redirect themselves to the west, and the armadas, who would be fooled by cloak-ships, would be lured into the Black Hole. This would allow Tenthius to regain the advantage in the Central Core. On 8 September 1114, he executed his ploy. The Goldarian forces under his command released a relay that would alert the armadas as to their path. Arasces and Mengli-Giray, believing that they could finally end the war, sent the majority of their forces under the command of Erutugul to follow the Goldarian armadas. Erutugul and his hordes followed the armadas into the deep recesses of the Central Core. At the point of no return, Tenthius and his forces suddenly went on a hyperspace jump to the west, leaving dummy cloak-ships in their wake.

The dummy ships crossed the point of no return. Erutugul and his armadas, who were in a executed pursuit course, followed the ships. They were lured into the black hole, which then destroyed their forces. Tenthius, having executed a major ploy, now regained the advantage in the Central Core. He reconquered Seejay Prime (10-12 September 1114); pacified Muppet and Mommica (13-17 September 1114); reasserted control over Yularen (23-29 September 1114); and reconquered Carina (1-8 October 1114). On 14 October, he defeated Mengli-Giray in the Battle of Mucahucher, and by 15 October, had reconquered Marshia, Constancia, and the worlds of the Ivorian Regions. On 21 October, he reconquered Conservan, Condtella, and Reoyania, pushing the Laurasians north. During November, Melarnaria and Teth were regained, while Tenthius sent secret emissaries to Bastilla and Qasim II, urging them to reenter the war. On 7 December 1114, Tenthius subdued Clancia and forced Arasces to retreat back into the Core Worlds. This victory encouraged Qasim, who declared war against Laurasia and the Crimeanian Khanate (10 December 1114), rejecting the terms of the Treaty of Pulaski. Bastilla reentered the war on 16 December 1114, declaring her intentions to recover Schauerian territories lost to Laurasia. On 21 December 1114, Schaueria Prime, the Venasian Khanate, and Goldaria signed the Treaty of Bette, by which they promised to conduct military offensives to reduce the power and influence of Laurasia and the Crimeanian Khanate.

In January 1115, Qasim II and Bastilla launched a series of offensives against Laurasian garrisons and units in the eastern Core Worlds, Outer Core, and Industrialized Borderlands. Monderon was besieged and conquered by the Venasian armada (5-9 January 1115), while a Schauerian fleet defeated the Laurasian armada of the Selena Star Cluster in the Battle of Sara (10-13 January 1115). Selena itself was besieged from 16 January 1115, eventually falling to the Schauerians on 27 January. Laurasian units at Permi, Organia, Talosia, and Devortsom were soon threatened by the Venasian units. Qasim, from his military base on Ruttum, destroyed the Laurasian military stronghold on Djania (18-21 January 1115). Organia then fell to the Venasians on 27 January. By the middle of February, Laurasian forces were retreating along the Rebeccan Galactic Trade Route. Arasces sent a force under the command of Anastasius Lojanius (1054-1116) to attempt a counteroffensive against the Schauerian armadas. They gained a minor victory in the Battle of Sanders (12 February 1115) and briefly threatened the defenses of Tyleria Perea, Rashid, and Kosphenia (15-19 February 1115). Bastilla however, then decisively defeated this force in the Battle of Angela Honia (22-24 February 1115). On 27 February, Hammenor was conquered by the Schauerians. Ipsus V, however, remained under Laurasian control, and a joint Schauerian-Venasian offensive was blunted on 4 March. During all this time, Tenthius began to threaten the Laurasian possessions galactic west-wards of Laurasia Prime.

A series of skirmishes and raids took place at Maroni, Janesia, and Dearton's Gateway, as the Goldarians probed the Laurasian defenses. The Goldarians also considered options for campaigns at the Metallasian Trunk Line. Courdina V and Gordasis both simmered under Laurasian dominance, and a series of public protests had taken place in 1113-14. Tenthius now sent messages to the rebel leader Anin Ganin, who was contemplating a full-scale revolt against Laurasian rule. On 19 February 1115, Ganin declared that Courdina V was independent and expelled the Laurasian garrison. A Goldarian-Melarnarian task force, dispatched by Tenthius, then defeated the Laurasian garrison of Gordasis (24-25 February 1115). Laurasian garrisons at Scout, Mercedes, and Andriana were sent orders by Arasces to reassert control over the rebel worlds and to expel the Goldarians. The Laurasian Chief of Staff, Prince Heredotus Mysarius of Augis V (1063-1121), arrived at Andriana on 7 March and took command of the operations against the Western Worlds. He gained a victory in the Battle of Skylnn (10-17 March 1115) and repelled a Goldarian offensive against the Constantine Star Cluster (20-24 March 1115). Tenthius however, combined his units with those of Ganin and launched a surprise offensive against the Laurasian military stronghold on Sargent (1-3 April 1115). Sargent was stormed by the Goldarian-Courdinian fleet, and the Laurasians were forced to halt their attacks. The Prince now retreated to Scout, seeking to stop a Goldarian offensive against the Wayguard Hyperspace Approaches. He won the Skirmish of Nagia (9-11 April 1115) but was then humiliated in the Battle of Promie (14 April 1115). Scout thereafter was attacked and conquered by the Courdinians (19-25 April 1115), followed by the Constantine Star Cluster (1-4 May 1115) and Andriana (7-9 May 1115). An enraged Arasces dismissed the Prince from his position on 11 May and recalled him back to Laurasia Prime.

The Laurasians were now strained, as they were fighting on three different fronts. Murphy, which was now isolated from Laurasian support, requested the assistance of the Crimeanian Khanate against the forces of Schaueria Prime and the Venasian Khanate. Mengli-Giray, who in the last years of his reign grew demented and increasingly inactive, received this petition on 8 March 1115. He did not respond however, having delegated many of his governmental responsibilities to his son, Mehmed. Mehmed, unlike his father, was a ardent enemy of Laurasia. He believed that a Dasian Khanate should not cooperate with a world which had been responsible for weakening Dasian dominion in the Core Worlds. Mehmed Giray held ambitions of restoring the Golden Horde and of subduing the Core Regions under his authority. These ambitions would never bear fruit, but throughout his reign, Mehmed Giray would engage himself in military campaigns and political schemes towards their fulfillment. On 14 March 1115, he rejected Murphy's plea for assistance against the other Powers. Six days later, Bastilla launched a major offensive against Anusia, the Prelone Asteroid Belt, Mumbraine, Dayanie, and Bartella. Mumbraine fell quickly (16 March 1115), followed by Bartella (20-27 March 1115); Anusia (1-3 April 1115); and the Prelone Asteroid Belt (4-8 April 1115). Dayanie however, resisted fiercely, as You'casy attempted to block a Schauerian advance to Duros and Kulikovo.

It eventually capitulated however (10-13 April 1115). Duros was then stormed (17-23 April 1115), followed by Kuilikovo (29 April-2 May 1115). Murphy itself was now threatened. You'casy, who did not want to flee from his dominions a second time, sent a request for a armistice on 5 May, which was accepted two days later. On 17 May 1115, the Treaty of Dayanie was signed, by which Murphy renounced its alliance with Laurasia, conceded Mumbraine, Anusia, and the Prelone Asteroid Belt to Schaueria Prime, and agreed to assist Schaueria Prime and the Venasian Khanate in their campaigns against Laurasia. With the campaigns in Murphy concluded, Bastilla and Qasim now sent forces against the Laurasian strongholds in the eastern Kazanian Khanate. Big Twinny fell (20-24 May 1115), followed by Leopoldia (25-29 May 1115); Miranda (2 June 1115); and Angela Morroco (4-9 June 1115). The Laurasians however, defeated another offensive against Ipsus V (10-14 June 1115) and prevented a Venasian advance to Vindictoria. By July, a stalemate had ensued along the Rebeccan Galactic Trade Route. Farther to the west, the Laurasian forces managed to protect Caladaria, Darcia, Clackmaris, Ralina Vixius, and Augis V from Goldarian offensives. Janesia however, was conquered by Tenthius (16 August 1115), breaching the Laurasian defenses of the upper Clancian Trunk Line. Dearton's Gateway and Maroni were also conquered by the Goldarians (20-29 August 1115). Laurasia Prime was placed under emergency alert. Arasces however, had now focused his efforts on fortifying his home territories and repelled further Goldarian offensives.

The King of Laurasia also sent his own petition to Mengli-Giray, urging the Crimeanian Khan to launch renewed offensives in the Central Core. Mengli-Giray however, was no longer responsive, and in fact, lapsed into a coma on 2 September 1115. His son, Mehmed, who was now ready to assume the Khanship, refused to respond to the petition and began making plans for his government. On 10 September, his father's condition was declared hopeless by the doctors of the Crimeanian court. On 14 September 1115, Mengli-Giray's final will and testament, confirming his son as his successor and arranging for the disposition of his properties, was formally announced and read in public. Then, on 18 September 1115, after a long and eventful reign of forty-six years, Mengli-Giray died. His son Mehmed now became Khan of the Crimeanian Khanate. Mehmed was now ready to execute his own ambitions. After his father was buried on 22 September, he sent a diplomatic letter to King Arasces, announcing that circumstances called for the end of the alliance with Laurasia. Four days later, the Khan signed a armistice with Bastilla, Salasthrold, and Qasim II, whose offensives against Crimeanian territory earlier in the year had proved indecisive.

Negotiations were then conducted on Eutagia. On 8 October 1115, the Crimeanian Khanate signed the Treaty of Eutagia with the Venasian Khanate, Schaueria Prime, and Goldaria. By the terms of this agreement, the Crimeanian Khanate was allowed to retain control of the Brentark Despotate. In return, it confirmed its revocation of the alliance with Laurasia, agreed to provide financial subsidies to Schaueria Prime and Goldaria, and promised to not hamper Goldarian or Schauerian ambitions in the Core Regions. Arasces, when he received word of the treaty, was enraged. On 17 October 1115, a secret pact was signed by the Crimeanian and Venasian Khanates with Schaueria Prime and Goldaria. It provided that the Crimeanian Khanate would enter the war against Laurasia in the middle of the following year. By this point in the year, military campaigns were winding down, and the Truce of April was signed on 1 November 1115, suspending hostilities until April of the following year.

Subjugation of Central Core by Tenthius; Low in Laurasian Fortunes; Crimeanian Khanate changes sides to Anti-Laurasian Coalition; Schauerian and Venasian Advances in the Venasian Khanate; Rise of Admiral Claudius, "Savior of Laurasia" (1116-1117)

During the months of the second Truce, both sides in the war were making plans for future military campaigns and offensives. Arasces, who was now nearing a lowpoint in his fortunes, wished to preserve Laurasia's independence and to restore momentum to the military forces. He was still determined to pursue his earlier goals of containing Goldarian power, making territorial gains at the expense of the Goldarians, Schauerians, and Venasians, and restricting the power of the successor states of the Golden Horde. The King of Laurasia felt betrayed by the Crimeanian Khanate's withdrawal. In March, his spies at the court of Mehmed Giray reported to their master that the Khan of Crimeania had actually signed a anti-Laurasian alliance with Venasia, Schaueria Prime, and Goldaria. Thus, Arasces was determined to punish his former Crimeanian ally for this change in allegiance. Tenthius, Salasthrold, Bastilla, Qasim II, and Mehmed, on their part, wished to destroy Laurasia. Tenthius, who was now beginning to formulate secret plans of deposing Salasthrold and seizing the Goldarian throne for himself, wanted to confirm Goldarian dominance of the Central Core. Bastilla was determined to incorporate Murphy, Ipsus V, Meaganian, and Arias into her territories and to elevate herself to the rank of a Queen. Qasim II wished to preserve the Venasian Khanate's position, while Mehmed Giray wished to strengthen Crimeanian power (this was in pursuit of his ultimate ambition to restore the Golden Horde). Thus, these were the goals of the contenders when hostilities were resumed on 13 April 1116. The military campaigns of 1116 comprised of three primary fronts: in the Laurasian Purse Region; in the Kazanian Khanate; and in the Western Worlds. In the first of these, Tenthius managed to make further advances. Cooperating with a force sent by Ganin, the Goldarian Admiral executed a surprise offensive by juncture of Janesia, Ashlynn, and Takhanaka, pushing towards Durglais, Katherine, and Chancia. Durglais was besieged and conquered (3 June 1116), followed by Chancia (7 June 1116). A Laurasian expeditionary fleet however, defeated the Goldarians in the Battle of Katherine (10-15 June 1116) and protected the vital shipyards of that world from seizure. Tenthius however, now consolidated his gains, which had weakened Laurasian ties with Arias, Ipsus V, and the remaining strongholds in the Kazanian Khanate.

Bastilla took advantage of this to launch a new offensive against Ipsus V (16-19 June 1116), which finally fell to the Schauerians. Afterwards, the Schauerians conquered Vindictoria (20-24 June 1116) and harried Wendy, Tony, and Latifah. The Laurasian commander in the Kazanian territories, Admiral Claudius Savarunius (1060-1135), forced Khan Moxammadamin, who was still on the Kazanian throne, to sign the Treaty of Kazan (29 June 1116), by which the Khan surrendered all authority over his military and civil service to Laurasian military authorities for the duration of the war. A Schauerian offensive launched against Deanna and Coen was blunted (2-4 July 1116), although the Laurasian fortress world of Oriana was seized (10 July 1116). Six days later, Admiral Claudius gained a victory in the Battle of Reagan, and forced Bastilla to scrap any plans for a offensive against Briannia and Rebecca. The Admiral then launched his own counteroffensives. He reconquered Oriana (21 July 1116) and fortified Tony (25 July 1116) before driving the Schauerians from Vindictoria (29 July 1116). His offensive against Ipsus V and Hammenor was defeated, however, in August 1116.

On 20 August, Bastilla conquered Meaganian, followed by Tommy (23 August 1116); Pat (27 August 1116); Bobby (29 August 1116); and Arias (1-3 September 1116), the seizure of which was a major blow to the Laurasians. In the Western Worlds however, the Laurasians enjoyed success, partially because of Ganin's disputes with his own military commanders. A Laurasian-Solidaritan task force conquered Metallasia in July 1116, while a fleet sent by Ganin against Merandaz was defeated (4-9 August 1116). Tenthius however, blunted a Laurasian offensive against Scout (12 August 1116), but was unable to prevent the recapture of Mercedes (19 August 1116) or the seizure of Sapphire (25 August 1116). Kelby was conquered by the Laurasians on 7 September 1116, followed by Chloe (9 September 1116) and Jenny (13 September 1116). On 7 October, however, the Laurasians were defeated in the Battle of Lucille, being forced to end plans for a offensive in the Constantine Star Cluster. Six days later, Tenthius launched his own offensive against Ralina Vixius, having breached the Laurasian minefields of Chesrone and Rainnan. He destroyed a Laurasian patrol force in the Battle of Wes (15 October 1116) and drove off Laurasian counterattack units at Chesham's Star (19 October 1116). Arasces however, now pulled units from Rebecca, Katherine, and Augis V to halt his advance. In the Battle of Lalnia (25 October 1116), the Goldarians were forced to retreat.

Tenthius, who was finding his offensives against the Laurasian Purse Worlds frustrated, now sent a demand to Mehmed-Giray that he fulfill his obligations of the Secret Alliance. Arasces, who was aware of the arrangements, had managed to keep Mehmed-Giray neutral until this point by sending him gifts and monetary grants. Mehmed-Giray however, now saw this as the time to join the war. On 6 November 1116, he announced the terms of the Alliance in public. Two days later, the Laurasian ambassador to Crimeania, Demetrius, Lord of Reoyania (1067-1116), was arrested and executed. On 13 November 1116, Mehmed Giray formally declared war against the Stellar Kingdom of Laurasia. He did not begin assembling his forces however, until the end of the month. On 2 December, King Salasthrold granted military access for Crimeanian forces to traverse across the Central Core. On 3 December, the Crimeanian armada joined with Tenthius' forces. Six days later, Piram Giray (1076-1117), the Khan's younger brother, encountered and destroyed a Laurasian task force in the Skirmish at Gaunis III. The Crimeanians, who were renowned for their emphasis on martial discipline and extreme ferocity in battle, then began a systematic strategy of harrying the Purse Worlds and their colonies. Between December 1116 and May 1117, some 2,000 Laurasian colony-worlds, ranging from Caladaria (with a population of 45 billion in 1116, almost as much as Laurasia Prime) to Depp (with a population of just over a hundred) were subject to Crimeanian raids. Crimeanian Star Destroyers and dreadnoughts would drop out of hyperspace into a unsuspecting system, and utilizing their advantages in numbers and firepower, would attack and plunder the colonies and worlds of that system.

The great Laurasian historian of the eighteenth century, Sir Demetrius Hanarania, 1st Baron Monompahalaus (1710-97), in his The Third Laurasian Period: A Time of Turmoil and Revival (1772), would later state that the Crimeanians engaged in a "deliberate, calculated, strategy of terror and death, the like of which as was produced by the evils of the Underworld." Indeed, millions of Laurasians and other alien colonists were slaughtered, tortured, or enslaved. Scores of Laurasian women and children were taken back to Crimeanian territory, where they were sold at the slave markets of Polonia, Galicia, Crimean IV, Denver, George, Hooper, Sanegeta, Chapelle, Podrac, Horacia, Zennethia, Zutagia, Saray, and Senna. Laurasia Prime itself was threatened in March 1117, but thanks to the efforts of Olybrius Adnranus (1070-1129), the Commander of the Laurasia Prime Defense Force, the Crimeanian fleet was repelled. Rebecca, Briannia, and Katherine also escaped raids. Arasces, who was now desperate, summoned Admiral Claudius from Kazan and appointed him as the Supreme Commander of all Laurasian military forces (20 May 1117). The Admiral immediately took actions against the Crimeanian raiding fleets. Using information gathered at the Laurasian intelligence center on Brentaal, he attacked the personal armada of Piram Giray in the Mutara Nebula (23-27 May 1117), gaining a major victory. Piram Giray himself was captured and taken back to Laurasia Prime, being executed by the King's orders on 4 June.

Admiral Claudius would gain the title of "Savior of Laurasia," as over the next two years, he would be responsible for changing Laurasia's fortunes in the war. Claudius was to gain victories against Tenthius, Ganin, Bastilla, Mehmed Giray, Qasim II, and Laurasia's other enemies, efforts for which he would be created Prince of Caladaria in 1124 and awarded the Order of St. Honorius the Liberator, which was established by Arasces in 1123 to commemorate bravery in service for the Laurasian Armed Forces. It remains in existence to the present time. The Admiral defeated the Crimeanian force in the Battle of Rory (9 June 1117), forcing the raiding armadas to cease their harrying attacks against the colony worlds of Hopkins, Lornia, Julianne, and Salasui's Gem. He then secured Caladaria against further attack (10-17 June 1117) and blunted a Crimeanian offensive against Darcia (20-25 June 1117). The Admiral also defeated a fleet sent by Tenthius against Katherine (29 June-2 July 1117), securing the Laurasian military production lines. During July, he engaged and destroyed numerous Crimeanian raiding fleets, rescued captives and goods from the Crimeanian marshaling post which had been established on Katie, and rehabilitated colony worlds which had been severely damaged by the Crimeanian predators. Finally, on 5 August, he defeated the last Crimeanian force in Laurasian territory in the Battle of Ugra, recovering nearly 2 million Laurasian captives. The Admiral now diverted his attention towards halting Tenthius' renewed attacks. He also began to retake Goldarian territorial gains in the Laurasian Purse Region.

Tenthius launched a major assault against Ochanin, which was a Laurasian fortress guarding the Katherine Trunk Line between Laurasia Prime and Katherine. Ochanin was relieved by Claudius on 12 August however, who then destroyed a Goldarian transport force in the Battle of Ethel (15-17 August 1117). Durglais was reconquered on 5 September. Chancia was besieged from 10 September, but it was over a month before the Goldarian garrison was finally forced to surrender. By the beginning of October, the Grand Admiral of Laurasia had regained control of all Laurasian worlds along the Rebeccan Galactic Trade Route. Bastilla, who was worried by Claudius' advances, and whose own offensives in the Kazanian Khanate had failed because of the Admiral's strong defensive positions, now attempted to launch her own offensives against Katherine, Rebecca, Briannia, and Stadium (October-November 1117), which were blunted by Claudius. On 2 December, Claudius reconquered Arias, and for this achievement was awarded by the King with a monetary grant. Five days later, he crushed a force sent by Ganin in the Battle of Frankia. On 10 December, Claudius reconquered Scout by a surprise maneuver, forcing Tenthius and his units to pull back into the Constantine Star Cluster. On 14 December, Claudius defeated Qasim in the Battle of Deanna, maintaining the Laurasian position in the western Kazanian Khanate. Then, on 25 December 1117, he scored a major victory in the Battle of Janesia, forcing Tenthius to retreat from his bridgeheads ahead of Dearton's Gateway. Two days later, Maroni was reconquered, followed by Dearton's Gateway itself on 30 December. A Salvation ceremony was held by Pope Boniface III of Laurasia (in office 1111-21), on New Years' Eve 1117. Hopes on Laurasia for a victory in the war were rising.

Revolt of Tenthius, who proclaims himself King of Goldaria; Admiral Claudius' Reconquest Campaigns; Revival in Laurasian Fortunes; Goldarian Dominions torn apart by civil war between Tenthius and Salasthrold; Crimeanian War with Venasian Khanate and Schaueria Prime; Death of Mohammadamin of the Kazanian Khanatte; Provision of Laurasian Aid to Salasthrold and Bastilla; Death of Tenthius; Defeat of Mehmed Giray; Treaty of Masar; Venasian and Crimeanian Intrigues; Khanates invade Kazanian Khanate; Peace in the Core Regions in the 1120s; Marriage Issues and Internal Affairs in the Laurasian State; Death of Most Monarchs of the Great Goldarian War; Restoration of Laurasian Dominance in the Kazanian Khanate; Death of Arasces the Patient (1118-1133)

In 1118, events in Goldaria allowed for the Grand Admiral of Laurasia to reconquer the Western Worlds and the Clancian strongholds, as also to begin threatening the Goldarian possessions south of Clancia and Melarnaria. Tenthius now decided to assert himself as the King of Goldaria and depose Salasthrold. On 4 January 1118, he renounced his allegiance to King Salasthrold, and five days later, in a assembly of his military commanders and subordinates at Taxiles the Great, the High General and Admiral of Goldaria proclaimed himself King of Goldaria. King Nikolai of Melarnaria swore allegiance to Tenthius as his overlord and ally three days later. Tenthius also received recognition of his title from Ganin and consolidated his control over Clancia, Teth, and the worlds of the Galactic Center. Salasthrold however, issued a declaration (10 January 1118), declaring the General to be a willful traitor and depriving him of all his estates, positions, and honors. Three days later, he received emissaries from Bastilla and Qasim II, who affirmed their support of him as the rightful King of Goldaria. Mehmed Giray however, seeing this as the time to extend his dominions into the Central Core, acknowledged Tenthius as King of Goldaria (15 January 1118). This was on the understanding that the Crimeanian Khanate would annex Carina, Muppet, Mommica, the Sort Drift, Stenbock, and Seejay Prime. Bastilla, Qasim II, and Salasthrold, considering Mehmed to be a betrayer, declared war against the Crimeanian Khanate (19 January 1118), thus shattering their alliance. Mehmed Giray however, now invaded Murphy. He conquered the world (23 January 1118) and had You'casy executed. Thereafter, the Crimeanian Khan defeated a joint Schauerian-Venasian force in the Battle of Anusia (25-27 January 1118).

Schauerian and Venasian units commanded by Qasim II attacked Podrac but were defeated (2-7 February 1118). On 10 February, Mehmed Giray conquered Mumbraine and harried Danigia. From 11 to 16 February, he harried the Murphian colony-worlds along the Kimanian Trade Run and Murphian Trade Spine, carrying off millions of Murphians as captives. On 19 February, Dayanie was stormed. Finally, on 22 February 1118, Bastilla was defeated in the Battle of Tums, being forced out of the Murphian territories. Mehmed Giray announced the formal annexation of Murphian territories into the Crimeanian Khanate on 26 February 1118. In the Central Core, Tenthius and Salasthrold engaged in a bitter struggle. Pellaeon was conquered by the forces of the usurper (10-18 January 1118), followed by Daala (22 January 1118); Marshia (27 January 1118); and Elainsborough (3 February 1118). A offensive against Constancia however, was blunted by Salasthrold (4-7 February 1118). Vigorous skirmishes at the Sort Drift, Ivoria, and the worlds of the lower Galactic Center, drained the energies of both sides. Mehmed Giray also launched his own offensives, dispatching units from Polonia, Galicia Major, Denver, and Nathaniel against Carina, Muppet, Mommica, and Seejay Prime. He conquered Mommica (25 February 1118) and seized Seejay Prime (29 February 1118). Salasthrold however, managed to protect Carina, and a Crimeanian assault against Stenbock (1-5 March 1118) was defeated.

Tenthius, Bastilla, Salasthrold, Mehmed Giray, and Qasim II had to divert units and squadrons from their campaigns against Laurasia to wage war on other fronts. This allowed Arasces and Admiral Claudius to recover lost territories and strengthen Laurasia's position. The Grand Admiral launched a series of swift and effective assaults throughout the Constantine Star Cluster (February-March 1118), destroying the Goldarian garrisons and recovering the territory for Laurasia. He subsequently reconquered Andriana (13 March 1118) and defeated a Goldarian expeditionary fleet in the Battle of Metallaina (15-17 March 1118). Ganin was now forced to send units against the Laurasians, hoping to bar their advance from Metallasia. His efforts were in vain however, and Claudius gained a major victory in the Battle of Polary (23-25 March 1118). Gordasis was then besieged from 2 April 1118, falling to the Royal Laurasian Navy on 10 April. Ganin now aroused himself from Courdina V and launched a counteroffensive against Sapphire (12-17 April 1118), which was defeated. Courdina V was then conquered by the Laurasians (19-22 April 1118), who thus reasserted their rule of the Western Worlds.

Ganin himself now became a refugee and fled into the Melarnarian territories. Nikolai sent a force to Paramine, which was destroyed by Admiral Claudius (23-25 April 1118). Claudius then halted a Goldarian offensive from Condtella (27 April-9 May 1118) and fortified the worlds of the upper Clancian Trunk Line. In the meantime, Mehmed Giray had advanced further in the southern Central Core, while Tenthius came close to seizing Goldaria (20-22 March 1118) before being forced by Salasthrold to retreat. Bastilla and Qasim II had also sent two forces, one against Laurasia and one against the Crimeanian Khanate. The first of these forces was defeated by Claudius in the Battle of Martina Mccasia (3 April 1118). Claudius then besieged and reconquered Ipsus V (7-10 April 1118); recovered Tommy (13 April 1118); and harried Meaganian (17-23 April 1118). The second force conquered Mumbraine (27 April 1118) and penetrated as far as Jared (1-5 May 1118), but was then annihilated by Mehmed Giray in the Battle of Zennethia (9 May 1118). Mehmed Giray then besieged and captured Hammenor (10-14 May 1118), forcing Schauerian units to retreat back into the Outer Core. He also blunted Venasian invasions of Hooper, Sanegeta, and Carman.

During the middle months of 1118, the Grand Admiral of Laurasia focused his efforts on consolidating the reacquired territories in the Western Worlds and on his offensives against Melarnaria. Williams was besieged and captured (2-4 June 1118), while a Melarnarian scout force was crushed in the Battle of Ariden (9 June 1118). Nikolai and Ganin then attempted to destroy Laurasian military equipment and supplies at the repository on Katie, which had been reconquered by Claudius (10-13 June 1118). This attempt was repelled however. Claudius then conquered Conservan (17-June 1118) and defeated Tenthius' viceroy, Governor Sigisus of Clancia (1069-1126), in the Battle of Gasolud (21 June 1118). On 27 June, Reoyania was reconquered and the Laurasian forces soon moved towards Dramis and Condtella. Dramis was besieged from 4 July 1118, but it did not fall until two months later. Condtella, on the other hand, was reconquered on 17 July, having been besieged from 5 July. Elsewhere in the Central Core, Tenthius finally managed to capture Goldaria (1-4 August 1118), after months of indecisive skirmishing and confrontations. Salasthrold was now forced to flee to Carina. Five days later, Tenthius and Mehmed Giray signed the Treaty of Constancia, by which the new King of Goldaria confirmed the secession of Carina, Seejay Prime, Stenbock, Mommica, and the Sort Drift to the Crimeanian Khanate.

Mehmed Giray now diverted all of his attention against Bastilla. He conquered Tyleria Perea (10-13 August 1118) and stormed Selena (17-21 August 1118) before besieging Archleuta (23 August-7 September 1118). Qasim II also suffered Crimeanian invasions, as Mehmed sent fleets which ranged as far as Monderon and Permi. By 27 September, Admiral Claudius had reconquered all of the lost Clancian strongholds. Melarnaria was besieged from 31 September, being captured by the Laurasians on 16 October. Nikolai and Ganin were now both compelled to flight, but were intercepted by a Laurasian force at Shadow (19 October 1118), being captured. They were trundled back in a barge to Laurasia Prime, and were presented before the King. Arasces then ordered their execution (24 October 1118). Two days later, he announced the annexation of Melarnaria into the Stellar Kingdom of Laurasia. Claudius now sent forces into the Kazanian Khanate. Bastilla, who had lost Colsonia to the Crimeanians (10-15 September 1118), was now becoming desperate. Leopoldia and Big Twinny were reconquered by the Laurasians (25-29 October 1118), while Smithia was seized by Mehmed Giray (1 November 1118). Laurasian and Crimeanian fleets now clashed at Meaganian, Arias, Capital, and Ipsus V (November-December 1118), with the Laurasians preventing the hordes from moving north.

On 8 November 1118, on Kazan, the powerless Khan Moxammadamin finally died. Arasces intervened and on 10 November 1118, the Kazanian civil secretary, Shahghali, was crowned as the new Khan of the Kazanian Khanate. Shahghali was forced by the Laurasian ambassador, Ptolemy Cavornius (1073-1136), to sign the Pact of Deanna (12 November 1118), by which he acknowledged Laurasia's rights in Kazanian territory and promised to continue supplying military units to the Royal Laurasian Forces. Claudius felt confident now that his northern flank was secure. On 16 November, Clancia was besieged by a Laurasian force. Tenthius, racing from Goss Beacon, vainly attempted to relieve it. His efforts failed, and the world fell (25 November 1118). Three days later, the Laurasians conquered Teth and chased the Goldarians away from Evelyn, Ruthania, and Hannah. By the beginning of December, most of the northern Central Core was under Laurasian control. On 7 December, Mehmed Giray conquered the Decapolian systems, and two days later, he instigated a siege of Schaueria Prime. Bastilla Dondonna, who had been unable to flee her capital world before the siege, now begged Laurasia for assistance, although she was still officially in a state of war with that kingdom. Arasces, who now wished to turn his attention to the Crimeanian Khanate and to the conclusion of Laurasian campaigns in the Central Core, received her plea on 11 December.

He accepted, on condition that Bastilla accept all Laurasian terms and declare herself a vassal. She agreed, and the Truce of Katherine was signed on 12 December. On 14 December, the Laurasians sent a relief force to Schaueria Prime, which lifted the Crimeanian siege on 17 December. On 22 December, the Laurasians conquered Dorothy. Then, three days later (Almitis Day 1118), Hordania was conquered, forcing Mehmed Giray to pull his units back to Mumbraine. On 27 December 1118, the Decapolian systems were conquered by the Laurasian forces. Two days later, formal negotiations began with Schaueria Prime. The Treaty of Compost V (1 January 1119), resulted in the secession of Selena, Archleuta, Colsonia, Hordania, Dorothy, Compost V, Greenia, and the Schauerian worlds of the Rebeccan Galactic Trade Route to the Stellar Kingdom of Laurasia. Bastilla agreed to pay Arasces a indemnity, acknowledged him as her overlord, and granted Laurasian merchants special commercial privileges in her dominions. In turn, Arasces agreed to cooperate with Bastilla in all campaigns against the Crimeanian Khanate.

Ironically, the establishment of peace with Schaueria Prime meant that a arrangement had to be reached with Salasthrold, who had never made any treaty with Laurasia previously. Arasces however, believed firmly in the maxim that "the enemy of my enemy is my friend." He sent overtures to Salasthrold and offered to assist him against Tenthius if he in turn agreed to acknowledge Laurasian territorial gains in the Central Core. Salasthrold, desperate for assistance against both Tenthius and Mehmed Giray, agreed. Negotiations opened at Arias on 5 January, and three days later, the Treaty of Arias was signed. By the terms of the Treaty of Arias, Salasthrold agreed to acknowledge Laurasian annexation of Melarnaria, Clancia, Teth, and Marshia. In turn, Arasces agreed to assist Salasthrold against Tenthius and Mehmed Giray, offered the Goldarian King a financial subsidy, and swore not to make any further territorial demands from Goldaria. On 11 January 1119, the Treaty of Sanalasthay was signed with the Venasian Khanate, providing for a economic and military alliance against the Crimeanian Khanate. With these treaties signed, Laurasia now turned her attentions back to the Central Core. A Laurasian-Schauerian expeditionary fleet conquered Marshia (15-19 January 1119) and ravaged Elainsborough, Gussman, and Brockald. Mehmed Giray and Tenthius combined forces to launch a offensive against Tommy and Chandlier (21-22 January 1119), but this was foiled. The Laurasian-Schauerian assault against Horacia and Donald however, also proved a failure (1 February 1119). On 7 February, however, a Laurasian-Venasian force defeated a Crimeanian patrol fleet in the Battle of Vesta.

Hooper was captured on 10 February. Acamaria (11 February 1119); Ogla (13-17 February 1119); Meris V (20-23 February 1119); Podrac (29 February 1119); and Nathaniel (31 February 1119) were also conquered. Mehmed Giray blunted a offensive against Wronzaz however (1-4 March 1119) and successfully fortified Sanegeta (7-12 March 1119). In the meantime, Salasthrold reconquered Seejay Prime (17-21 March 1119) and fortified Ivoria, which he also secured (25-31 March 1119). In the northern Central Core, the Laurasians conquered Goss Beacon and the upper Galactic Center (1-7 April 1119). Tenthius was now restricted to Yularen, Daala, Goldaria, and the systems of the Lower Center. He now employed a series of guerrilla tactics against his enemies, and Laurasian efforts to storm Yularen in May 1119 were defeated. Tenthius also managed to protect Constancia from Salasthrold. During June and July 1119, as fighting in the Central Core degenerated into these series of skirmishes and raids, the Coalition made major advances against the Crimeanian Khanate. Mumbraine was conquered (5-9 June 1119), followed by the Prelone Asteroid Belt (13 June 1119); Anusia (17-21 June 1119); and Duros (23-27 June 1119). Mehmed Giray was defeated in the Battle of Lonnie (2 July 1119), opening the way to Murphy. Murphy was then besieged and conquered (3-9 July 1119). At the insistence of the Laurasians, You'casy's younger brother, Alloray, was installed as Grand Prince of Murphy (13 July 1119). Horacia was then conquered (17-19 July 1119), although offensives against Theresa and Zutagia were blunted.

By August 1119, the Laurasians had restored their supremacy over their rivals. Arasces, whose popularity among his subjects had risen considerably, showered titles and honors upon Admiral Claudius, who was celebrated by many as the military hero of Laurasia. Claudius himself now traveled from Laurasia Prime, where he had been directing the Tactical Headquarters of the Laurasian Military Command, to Goss Beacon, determined to finally subdue Tenthius. Throughout August and September, the Laurasians harried the outposts of the Lower Galactic Center. Admiral Claudius also dispatched a force to Daala, which was finally conquered (22 September 1119). Mehmed Giray however, repelled a Laurasian offensive against Daniella (29 September-2 October 1119) and launched a surprise raiding operation against the Laurasian strongholds on Abasi and Whitie (4-8 October 1119), capturing a large number of Laurasian Marines, dreadnoughts, and military supplies. Claudius however, then gained a victory over a combined Crimeanian-Goldarian force in the Battle of Chakaa (6-11 October 1119), destroying all of Tenthius' remaining hopes for success.

Goldaria was besieged from 14 October 1119, and despite a relief effort mustered by the Khan of Crimeania, it fell to the Laurasians and Loyalist Goldarians on 6 November 1119. Tenthius himself now fled with his final remaining army to Stenbock, but was soon surrounded by a Laurasian force. In the Battle of Stenbock, fought on 11 November 1119, the once powerful Admiral of Goldaria and Supreme Commander of the Central Core was defeated and killed. The remains of his starship were encountered by Laurasian probes three days later. Mehmed Giray was then put to flight and the final remaining Carinian strongholds were subdued (12-19 November 1119). Salasthrold, who was secure in his possession of the Goldarian Throne, signed the final Treaty of Coen with King Arasces (26 November 1119). By the terms of this agreement, the rule of Laurasia over Clancia, Marshia, Teth, and Melarnaria was confirmed. Laurasian overlordship over the Upper Galactic Center was acknowledged, and the Goldarian King would be obliged to pay a annual tribute to Arasces. In turn, Arasces agreed to protect Salasthrold from any future enemies and to preserve the tranquility of the Central Core.

With this peace concluded, the Laurasians now turned their attention to bringing the Crimeanian Khanate to heel. Galich Majoria was attacked and plundered by a Laurasian-Goldarian-Schauerian force (29 November 1119), followed by Volodormia (31 November 1119). Mehmed Giray, who now found that the Crimeanian Khanate was in danger of destruction, sent a request for peace on 3 December. On 7 December, the Truce of Polonia was signed. It took two months of negotiations however, before a settlement could be made. The Treaty of Masar (2 February 1120), resulted in Mehmed Giray acknowledging Laurasia's territorial gains in the Core Worlds, Outer Core, and Central Core. He recognized Salasthrold as King of Goldaria and renounced claims to Goldarian territory in the Central Core. In return, Horacia was returned to the Crimeanian Khanate, as were the territories of Brentarkia. Podrac however, remained in the possession of the Venasian Khanate, as did Hooper. Mehmed Giray also promised to limit the size of his military forces and to pay compensation to Schaueria Prime, the Venasian Khanate, Goldaria, and Laurasia. On Laurasia, jubilant celebrations and festivities were held to celebrate the Laurasian victory in the Great Goldarian War. King Arasces himself viewed the Parade of the Laurasian Marines from the balcony of the Celestial Palace, which was eventually to be used by the Laurasian Emperors and Empresses of later centuries countless times, as the Laurasian Empire extended its power throughout the entire Caladarian Galaxy. Admiral Claudius arrived back on Laurasia Prime on 11 February 1120, and was greeted by the King with full ceremony.

Mehmed Giray however, simmered, as he was still determined to pursue his earlier ambitions. In a series of secret conferences, held in the recesses of the Khan's Palace on Crimean IV during March and April 1120, the Khan drafted plans for a campaign in the Kazanian Khanate. Ever since the initial wars of Honorius the Liberator in the 1090s, anti-Laurasian tensions had boiled over in that dominion. Shahghali was despised for his submissive attitude towards the King of Laurasia and for his personal gluttony, corruption, and cruelty. Mehmed Giray sought to take advantage of this. However, he intended that the Kazanian Khanate now be subordinated to the Crimeanian Khanate. This would fulfill a step in his private ambitions towards eventually reestablishing the Golden Horde. As such, he began grooming his younger brother, Sahib Giray, for taking possession of such a throne. He also secretly violated the terms of the Treaty of Masar by constructing and assembling naval squadrons at hidden Crimeanian outposts along the border with the Donguarian Stellar Empire. Mehmed Giray also sent overtures to Qasim II. These ultimately resulted in the secret Treaty of Rupert (12 November 1120), by which Qasim promised to return Podrac and Hooper to the Crimeanian Khanate. In return, he was to be given control of Laurasian strongholds in the Kazanian Khanate and those in territories once belonging to Schaueria Prime. Qasim II also promised to renounce his alliance with Laurasia and to cooperate in installing Sahib Giray on the throne of the Kazanian Khanate.

In February 1121, the Laurasian government was informed by the Royal Intelligence Bureau that the Crimeanian military had been undergoing a military buildup, in violation of the terms of the Treaty of Masar. King Arasces, when he was informed of this, immediately summoned a meeting of his War Council, and there, ordered for the commanders to place the military on alert. Admiral Claudius immediately sent orders of emergency to all Laurasian military garrisons and strongholds, from Courdina V to Leopoldia. On 1 March, the Laurasian Ambassador to the Crimeanian court, Scripo Pubalinus (1064-1121), demanded a audience with the Khan. The audience was granted, but when the Ambassador informed the Khan of the Laurasian knowledge about the Crimeanian buildup, Mehmed ordered for his arrest. With the Ambassador bound in chains, the Khan then took a copy of the Treaty of Masar and ripped it to pieces, declaring that the Crimeanian Khanate would not bow itself before a "world which had been subject to the power of our species for such a long time (referring to the 240-year long Dasian Yoke), and was only taken from that power by the unfortunate weaknesses of our forbears."

Ambassador Pubalinus was then executed on Crimean IV three days later. Arasces, declaring the Khan of Crimeania a contumacious traitor, ordered for hostilities against the Crimeanian Khanate to begin (7 March 1121). On 13 March, however, Qasim II renounced his alliance with Laurasia and declared his support for the Khan of Crimeania. Venasia formally declared war against Laurasia on 21 March. Arasces was afraid that a repetition of what had happened before would occur, and that Schaueria Prime, Goldaria, and Murphy would join in a new coalition against Laurasia. His fears however, proved to be false, as Bastilla and Salasthrold declared their neutrality in the conflict, as did Alloray of Murphy. They nevertheless continued to provide the King of Laurasia with annual tribute and granted him military access privileges through their territories. The Kazanian Khanate and the Rebeccan Galactic Trade Route now became the theater of war operations.

On 1 April 1121, a Venasian-Crimeanian battlefleet, stationed at the Venasian military base of Manelle, launched a series of offensives against Leopoldia, Big Twinny, Thark's Point, Fredericklansia, and Alexandra, all of which served as major Laurasian fortresses in the eastern Kazanian Khanate. The Dasian forces obtained a major victory in the Battle of Onset (2-3 April 1121); conquered Leopoldia (5-9 April 1121); and stormed Big Twinny (12-17 April 1121). A Venasian offensive against Ipsus V and Hammenor failed however (19-21 April 1121). Admiral Claudius now arrived from Laurasia Prime, taking command of the defensive garrisons and units stationed along the Rebeccan Galactic Trade Route. He launched a counterattack against the Venasian supply fleet at Uzarina (22-25 April 1121), capturing over half of their fleet transports and disrupting the lines to the Venasian garrison installed on Leopoldia. Qasim II however, managed to launch a surprise offensive against Alexandra, besieging and conquering that stronghold (1-7 May 1121). The Laurasians and Venasians then fought a series of skirmishes at Thark's Point, Malurdio, Alejhandra, and Esmeralda (May-June 1121), as Claudius managed to successfully prevent any further Venasian-Crimeanian offensives in the direction of Vindictoria, Deanna, and Wendy.

Mehmed Giray, who was determined to pursue his goals in the Kazanian Khanate, arrived at the Crimeanian stage-post of Franco (3 July 1121), marshaling together a massive armada. He now pursued a strategy of whole-scale devastation, slaughter, and terror, harrying numerous Laurasian command posts and inflicting damage on hundreds of star systems. On 8 July, he and his armada used a secret hyperspace route, provided by Kazanian rebels, to reach Cibourney, seizing that world and establishing a foothold in the western Kazanian Khanate. Admiral Claudius, however, prevented him from advancing to Rebecca, Briannia, and I-Lola. Sahib Giray was now ordered by his brother to travel to the Kazanian dominions. Evading a Laurasian force at Decapolia Major sent to intercept him, he arrived at Leopoldia (14 July 1121) and joined his brother. By the beginning of August, Thark's Point and Esmeralda had been secured by the Crimeanians, as Sahib Giray finally managed to overwhelm the Laurasian defense forces of those worlds. On 2 September, the Laurasians were defeated in the Battle of Coen, and on 14 September, Massanay and Sassanay submitted to the Crimeanian forces. Shahghali fled from Kazan on 19 September. On 28 September, Sahib Giray entered Kazan in victorious procession, and was proclaimed Khan of the Kazanian Khanate.

Mehmed Giray now launched offensives along the Rebeccan Galactic Trade Route. Although Meaganian was devastated (1-2 October 1121), the offensive against Durglais, Rebecca, and Chancia failed (3-11 October 1121). Admiral Claudius then destroyed a Crimeanian battlefleet in the Battle of Secunda (19 October 1121), driving the Crimeanians and Venasians from Laurasian territory. Meaganian was recovered on 22 October. Laurasian assaults into Kazanian territory were blunted however. On 27 October, Arasces requested for the commencement of negotiations with the Dasian Khans. The King, although he wished to recover Laurasian dominance over the Kazanian Khanate, also intended to have a period of rest from war. Laurasia had been engaged in almost-continuous conflict since her restoration of independence in 1080. The King of Laurasia wished to focus his efforts on economic reforms and cultural projects. Mehmed Giray, having achieved his goal of asserting his position in the Kazanian Khanate, agreed to come to terms, as did Qasim II and Sahib Giray. A congress was opened at Selena on 29 October, being mediated by representatives sent by Bastilla Dondonna. A month of negotiations followe. The Treaty of Selena was then signed on 4 December 1121. By the terms of this agreement, Arasces recognized Sahib Giray as Khan of the Kazanian Khanate and conceded the Laurasian strongholds to Qasim II. However, Sahib confirmed the rights of the Laurasian Ambassador to petition him on behalf of his master, and he granted special commercial privileges to Laurasian merchants and businessmen. Shahghali was also to retain control of all his personal properties and would be treated as a "special guest" of the Laurasian King. Mehmed Giray, Qasim II, and Sahib Giray also re-acknowledged Laurasian dominance of the Central Core and Laurasian interests in Murphy, Schaueria Prime, and Goldaria.

With the Treaty concluded, a peace managed to prevail in the region for the next three years. Arasces turned his attention to internal matters. He continued the process, instigated by his father, of establishing the Laurasian sovereign as a autocratic monarch on the Dasian model. By the decree of 7 January 1122, the King established the Royal Council, to be comprised of councilors and noblemen appointed and dismissed by the King at will. The Council would execute the King's orders, oversee the Laurasian civil service, and maintain royal authority. No order from the Council would be valid without the signature of the King. Two months later, Arasces ordered for Boniface, Pope of the Royal Almitian Church, to be deposed from his position, arrested, and banished to a monastery on Chloe. This was because Boniface had been engaged in a dispute with the Royal Council over the sacred nature of government officials. He was replaced with Peter, who was to remain Pope until his own deposition in 1139. Boniface would die at Chloe on August 18, 1125, aged 73. In July 1122, Arasces was to issue a royal proclamation which declared that in the future, no church official would be allowed to criticize government policies. The right of church advice on government affairs was revoked. It would eventually be restored by Eurysmaschus Gadavarius in 1189, but would then be permanently withdrawn in 1266. On 6 November 1122, Arasces announced the annexation of the minor Principality of Moldavia, which had been constituted by Angelican exiles from Cordania in 1110. The Moldavian Prince, Yuri Gasvanich, was imprisoned on Reoyania.

Then in January 1123, two Laurasian princes, Antipater Eurtheia (1054-1128) and Kallixtus Cremies (1077-1130) were arrested, deprived of their estates, and imprisoned in the Secret Yards of Ipsus V for daring to criticize the King's advisers on the subject of taxation. In March 1125, Leonidas Arahlaka (1072-1125), the former Laurasian Ambassador to the court of Schaueria Prime, was executed for "treasonous writings" about the King's household. All of these examples demonstrated how the monarch's authority had grown to considerable bounds. Indeed, the Ambassador of the Amelianian Kingdom of Hengist to the court of King Arasces, Alfred Leideoff (1076-1149), who would publish his Diaries of Life on Laurasia Prime in 1128, which has been a major source for historians in the present time, would comment about the form of government. He stated that the "King is believed to be subordinate only to the forces of the Universe. None of his councilors have sufficient authority or force of will to oppose him. They proclaim to all who are in attendance that the King's will is the will of their Almitis." The King also sponsored various artistic projects. He established the War Archives on Conservan in 1122, commissioned the construction of the Liberator Monument, in honor of his father, in 1123, and opened the Laurasian Gallery of the Military Arts in 1124. Arasces recruited colonists into Laurasian territories, sponsored the establishment of agricultural, trade, and commercial outposts, and ordered the scouting of new hyperspace routes throughout Laurasian territory.

A brief conflict flared again, between Laurasia and the Kazanian Khanate, in 1124. Similar to what had happened in the past, violations of Laurasian rights were conducted by Kazanian officials. The Treaty of Selena had granted Laurasian merchants special commercial privileges in Kazanian dominions, exempted them from Kazanian laws, and provided them with diplomatic extra-territorial status. Sahib Giray, although he was content with his Kazanian dominions, nevertheless wished to remove the last vestiges of Laurasian influence in his khanate. As such, he sponsored a series of assaults against Laurasian merchants, tourists, and representatives on Kazan, Deanna, Wendy, Cibourney, Alexandra, and other Kazanian worlds. The incident on 27 February 1124, which mirrored that of nearly nineteen years earlier, when Arasces had just acceded to the Laurasian throne, resulted in the slaughter of 34,000 Laurasians in the Kazanian Public Squares. King Arasces, when he heard of this new outrage, recalled all Laurasian subjects in Kazanian territory. He then sent a demand to Sahib Giray that he adhere to the terms of the Treaty of Selena. Sahib Giray refused and on 11 March, issued a decree which abolished all extraterritorial privileges for Laurasians residing in his dominions. Declaring this a provocation, Arasces declared war against the Kazanian Khanate (15 March 1124). He managed to secure the neutrality of Qasim II by offering him control of the Decapolian systems. This was confirmed in the Treaty of Amanda (21 March 1124). Mehmed Giray was thus unable to provide his brother direct military support. As a result, he was forced to remain neutral himself in the conflict, for he was not willing to violate the neutrality of Murphy, Schaueria Prime, and Goldaria.

Laurasian forces advanced against Esmeralda, Wendy, Coen, Cibourney, and Vindictoria. Although Esmeralda was conquered (1-9 April 1124), the Laurasian force sent against Wendy suffered severe losses (10-19 April 1124). The Laurasians then lost a large number of starfighters in the Ambush of Solomonia's Grisp (24 April 1124). Two days later, however, the Laurasians managed to conquer Vindictoria. On 3 May, the Laurasians conquered the Albine Outposts, which had been constituted by Sahib Giray as stations on the route to Kazan. Kazan itself was besieged from 8 May. The Laurasians however, found themselves unable to breach the world's defenses. Sahib Giray, who had left with his force just before his capital was besieged, then launched a surprise counteroffensive (10-13 May 1124), reconquering Esmeralda and Vindictoria. The Laurasians however, ravaged the Kazan star system and conquered Wendy (17-21 May 1124), forcing Sahib Giray to come to terms. The Treaty of Kazan (27 May 1124), resulted in a revision of the terms of the Treaty of Selena. By the terms of this Treaty, Laurasia acquired Deanna, Coen, and Wendy. Sahib Giray agreed to pay reparations for all Laurasians killed or injured, restored Laurasian extra-territorial privileges, and promised to submit to Laurasian supervision over his military forces. In turn, Arasces promised to acknowledge Sahib Giray's control over the Kazanian Khanate. In a secret protocol (4 June 1124), he agreed to help Sahib Giray in conquering the Eastern Strongholds from the Venasian Khanate. Two months later, on 8 August 1124, Laurasia and the Kazanian Khanate declared war against the Venasian Khanate. Qasim II, who was surprised by Sahib Giray's betrayal, underwent further distress when Mehmed Giray also declared war (11 August 1124). Within a span of three months, all of the Venasian strongholds in the eastern Kazanian Khanate fell to the Laurasians and Kazanians, while Mehmed Giray conquered Decapolia. Qasim II was forced to sue for peace on 29 November 1124. By the Treaty of Monderon (4 December 1124), he conceded the strongholds to the Kazanian Khanate and the Decapolian systems to the Crimeanian Khanate. Laurasia was also paid a indemnity for its involvement in the conflict.

Following this, Laurasia again settled back into peace, and the remainder of the 1120s, very much unlike the 1110s, were tranquil. Baron Monompahalaus remarked in his Third Laurasian Period that "these years were ones in which all the Core States resided in peace, while turbulent events continued to transpire in the Dasian Khanates of the Outer Borderlands and in the Kingdoms of the Amelianians in the Galactic Borderlands." Arasces however, had been dissatisfied with his wife, Messalina Trbournos (1080-1142), whom he had married in 1104, a year before his accession to the throne. Trbournos had been pregnant twice, in 1109 and in 1113, but both times she miscarried. In 1116, the royal physicians had discovered that the Queen would be incapable of successfully maintaining and giving birth to a child. Arasces was devastated when he learned that his wife was infertile, especially because the custom of the Royal Family (inherited from the Arachosians of far earlier centuries), prohibited any genetic modifications that would affect the royal bloodline. Nevertheless, they remained married for another nine years, while the King's energies were distracted by the Great Goldarian War, his cultural projects, and his interventions in the Kazanian Khanate, as well as his proceedings towards those mentioned above.

With these wars and proceedings being complete however, Arasces could now turn his attention to domestic concerns. The Royal Council and the nobles sent a petition to the King on 17 January 1125, requesting that "His Majesty divest himself of his barren wife and find himself a princess who, by her beauty and fertility, will insure the continuance of this dynasty, so that we may not be cast into anarchy after His Majesty's death." Arasces accepted the petition. On 21 January 1125, he summoned a assembly of ecclesiastical and household officials, presided over by Pope Peter, who expressed his approval for the King's plans. Messalina was summoned before the assembly and was questioned on her inability to "satisfy the King's needs and insure the royal line." Messalina asserted that it was of no fault of her own, and that the King had been aware for almost a decade that she was incapable. She said that "if His Majesty wished to have a child, he should have changed the customs of the line," referring to the rule against genetic modifications. The King was outraged when he heard this, for it meant changing the customs of his ancestors. He then commanded the assembly to pass judgment on the marriage. On 23 January, the Pope declared the marriage of the King with Messalina Trbournos to be null and void, and said that it was "cursed by Nature." Messalina was deprived of her position as Queen Consort and forced to take the veil at the distant monastery of A'rourkos. She would eventually die there on 18 December 1142.

Free from his wife, Arasces now searched for another. King Salasthrold of Goldaria, who had become grateful to Arasces for saving him from Tenthius, suggested one Elena Galinaria, the beautiful and wealthy daughter of Prince Vasarnius Locos (1083-1131), who was a major Goldarian nobleman and member of the Goldarian Royal Senate. Elena arrived in a entourage at Laurasia Prime on 2 February 1125, and was presented to the King and his court by the Goldarian Ambassador to the Laurasian court, Lord Konstanty of Ponthus (1078-1139). Arasces was immediately entranced by her, as her intelligence, vigorous personality, energy, and most of all, beauty and "fertility," convinced him that she would be a worthy wife and consort. On 7 February, the King's betrothal to Galinaria was announced, and on 30 March, they were married. The King was now eager that he and his wife would produce numerous children. For the next five years however, their marriage seemed to be just as barren as the earlier one. Although the royal doctors confirmed that both royal spouses were in "excellent health," the "works of the mysterious nature" (as the Pope phrased it), meant that no children were conceived. Arasces became impatient, and on two occasions (in 1126 and 1129), he considered divorcing Elena as well, to find another wife who would finally give him the child and heir that he desired. The Pope however, counseled the King to wait. In December 1129, this advice finally bore its reward, as the King and Queen were able to announce that they were expecting a child. Elena successfully completed her term, and on 25 August 1130, at the Royal Hospital in the quarters of the Celestial Palace, she gave birth to a healthy son. Arasces, who was joyous, named his son Honorius, after his father. The Pope presided over a lavish baptism ceremony, and joyous parades, festivals, processions, and celebrations were held throughout the Kingdom to celebrate the birth of the Grand Prince. Two years later, on 30 October 1132, Elena gave birth to a second son, who was named Antigonus.

In the meantime, several contemporary monarchs of the Laurasian King died. Mehmed Giray expired on 27 November 1124. He was succeeded by Gazi Giray, who held the throne for a year until he was succeeded by Sadet Giray, who held the throne until 1132, when he in turn was succeeded by Sahib Giray, the former Khan of Kazania. Mehmed Giray was followed by Bastilla, who died on 17 April 1126. On 10 August 1130, King Salasthrold of Goldaria died and was succeeded to the Goldarian throne by his nephew, Lathasold. Lathasold received a message of condolence from King Arasces. The new King of Goldaria reaffirmed the earlier terms of peace and tribute with Laurasia. In March 1131, Arasces launched a renewed invasion of the Kazanian Khanate, this time intent on reasserting his complete dominance. Sahib Giray had abdicated on 3 December 1125 and was succeeded by his young son Safa Giray, who was only fourteen. Arasces thus decided to take advantage of the situation. The Laurasians swiftly conquered Big Twinny, Leopoldia, Vindictoria, Cibourney, and Cashaglia. On 7 April, Kazan itself was stormed and conquered. Safa Giray was arrested, deposed from the Kazanian throne, and sent to exile on Madaisa. Arasces thereafter installed Canghali, who was only eighteen, on the throne of the Kazanian Khanate. Canghali was forced to sign the Treaty of Kazan (11 April 1131), by which the Syellar Kingdom of Laurasia reacquired all of its old strongholds in Kazanian territory. The Laurasian Ambassador to the Kazanian court was granted the power to ratify the Khan's laws, send orders to government officials, and take command of Kazanian military forces if it was required. After this, Qasim II of the Venasian Khanate was deposed and assassinated by Ab Kubek (27 February 1132), who nevertheless maintained positive relations with his neighbors. Arasces was now the only surviving monarch of the Great Goldarian War.

He survived however, for just another year and a half. Arasces was fond of participating in the blaster practices of his guards regiments, as they sought to maintain their discipline and their order of battle. The King would himself act as commander of the squadron and would fight in these simulations as vigorously as any of his officers or military subordinates. The last of these practices which he engaged in took place on 25 November 1133. During the practice, the safety controls were accidentally turned off, which thus turned the blasters and grenades wielded by those in the simulation into lethal weapons. Arasces, who was unaware of this, was struck by a grenade in his chest. The grenade destroyed all of his skin and incinerated his liver, colon, and other organs. The simulation was immediately ended and the King was taken to medical quarters. For the next several days, his doctors performed surgeries, attempting to save the King's life. Arasces, however, bade them desist, and on 1 December 1133, in great pain, commanded for the treatments to end. The Pope, as well as Queen Elena, implored him to take the treatment. If he did, he would survive. The King however, no longer had a will to live. On 3 December, by his request, he was inducted as a monk into the Order of Almitism. A day later, on 4 December 1133, King Arasces died, having reigned for twenty-eight years.

Ascension of Theodoric I to Ashlgothian Throne; Argatu becomes co-Khan; Death of Argatu; Illness and Death of Jasagatu; Struggle for the Huntite Throne; Victory of Wrangia Althia and Tokugaistus II; Dost becomes Huntite Khan; Rise of Bodi Aligh and his elevation to Supreme Commander; The Supreme Commander's War with the Melorkians of Cholodio (1117-1129)

Having chronicled the Amelianian Kingdoms and the Stellar Kingdom of Laurasia extensively, we must now turn our attention back to the events which transpired in the Dasian Khanates of the Outer Borderlands. Following his marriage to Wrangia Althia, Argatu further consolidated his position within the Huntite Khanate. He focused his attention on reaching a new series of treaty arrangements with Wallia, who had concluded his military campaigns in the middle of 1117. After months of negotiations, the Treaty of Brooke One was signed (7 January 1118), by which Wallia again secured recognition of his rule over the Kingdom of Ashlgothia. The Khan recognized the Ashlgothian King's rights as a independent ruler and confirmed his title to the territories which the Ashlgothians had conquered. In turn, Wallia agreed to protect the Huntite Khanate from outside threats and to pay the Khan a annual financial subsidy. Argatu, who had now cemented relations with the Ashlgothians, now turned his attention to other outstanding matters. In 1118-19 he instigated a significant expansion of the Huntite armed forces, constructing new shipyards for the Dasian Navy at Sheldonia, Gabriella, Meredita, Jeanne, Lorna, Leah, Walters, and Hasselbeck. To insure that the forces had sufficient manpower however, the Guardian was forced to conscript considerable numbers of Kuevians, Armanes, Melorkians, Rudorites, Jageronians, Alexandrians, and other barbarians. These men were organized into new formations of bo'lar, which were then subdivided into decimal units of yuuns and battalions of cuns.

On 26 February 1119, Wallia died and was succeeded to the throne of the Kingdom of Ashlgothia by his cousin and chief military commander Theodoric (r. 1119-51). Theodoric confirmed the arrangements of his predecessor with the Dasian court of Hunt Major, supplied substantial financial aid to Argatu, and dispatched emissaries to Jasonia. Argatu, who was becoming yet more ambitious, made plans for upgrading his position. Nothing of note happened during 1120, with the exception of Brestord raids at Etti and Scanlan, as well as a uprising on Kimania against the Huntite authorities which was swiftly crushed. On 8 February 1121, Argatu's plans took fruit, as he was proclaimed the senior Khan of the Huntite Khanate. Jasagatu was relegated to junior status and was effectively deprived of all remaining sovereign powers. Argatu, who was now the ruler of the Khanate in every aspect, was formally crowned as Khan on 13 February, a ceremony which was attended by dignitaries of Ashlgothia, the Alexandrians, the Homidinian Khanate, the Venasian Khanate, the Donguarian Stellar Empire, the Crimeanian Khanate, the Kazanian Khanate, Laurasia, Schaueria Prime, Goldaria, the Amelianian Kingdoms, Merlita, and the Kuevian Kingdom of Norah, among other states.

Argatu was not destined to enjoy his position for long however. After only seven months as senior Khan, he contracted a serious illness on 28 October 1121. The Khan's physicians discovered a day later that their master had contracted the serious Lamphonide cancer, which was one of the rarest diseases in the Caladarian Galaxy (it was not to be cured until the fourteenth century). This disease baffled all the physicians of the time, since it possessed a set of genes which were then beyond medical understanding. The Khan experienced great pain, and all at court despaired for him. He died in his quarters, at the Royal Palace of Jasonia, on 2 November 1121. At the time of his death, the succession to the throne of the Huntite Khanate was undecided. Although Jasagatu now reverted to being sole Khan, it was understood that he wielded no authority of his own. Argatu had refused to name a successor to his position, and his children were far too young to take up the imperial mantle upon themselves. On 9 November 1121, Tokugaistus, who had now assumed sole authority as Khan of the Homidinian Khanate, was requested to assume the guardianship of the Huntite Khanate. The Homidinian Khan accepted and dispatched his representatives to Hunt Major and Jasonia. These representatives arrived on 12 November.

On 14 November, a Regency Council was constituted, which was to govern the Huntite Khanate until the death of Jasagatu. Wrangia Althia, who had been devastated by the death of her husband, was appointed to the Council. Nevertheless, she desired the throne for her son Dost, and began conspiring in secret to assert her position over the state. The Khaness Dowager aroused much distaste from the nobles at the court, however. According to Sir Antigonus Gibbeoneous (1737-94), whose History of the Rise, Decline, and Fall of the Dasian Empire (1776-88) is one of the major landmarks of modern historical scholarship, the Khaness was "engaged in numerous affairs, acting in such a way as to disgrace herself and undermine her position with the gentlemen of the court." Despite this however, the Huntite Khanate managed to remain relatively tranquil during the next two years. Absolutely nothing of note took place during 1122, although the indiscretions of the Khaness Dowager continued to inspire gossip at the imperial court. During these years Arasces reigned over Laurasia, instigating his numerous cultural projects which have already been described above. Raedwald was dominant in the Galactic Borderlands.

This period of tranquility ended however, when Khan Jasagatu entered a severe decline of health in July 1123. Soon, he developed symptoms such as those which had inflicted the late Khan Argatu. On 2 August, it was formally announced that, by a matter of fate as delivered by the Gods of the Dasians, Khan Jasagatu had himself developed Lamphonide cancer. Many at court were surprised at this turn of events. Nevertheless, Jasagatu now moved towards death. He had no children of his own, and as such, it would now become a priority for a new successor to the throne to be found. Wrangia Althia continued to be engaged in her conspiracies, while the representatives of Khan Tokugaistus began searching for possible candidates for the throne. Then, on 15 August 1123, Jasagatu died after a "reign" of twenty-eight years. At the time of his death, the Huntite Khanate was far weaker and more impoverished then it had been when he had acceded to the throne. He had never exercised sovereign authority in his own right and had always been a puppet monarch. Upon his death, some months of a interregnum ensued, as the representatives of Khan Tokugaistus continued their search for successors. The nobles however, demanded that they have a say in who would be elevated to the Huntite throne.

The deceased Khan's Chamberlain, Cadillo, who was a Vickian, decided to take advantage of the situation. Cadillo, believing that he could install himself as the new Guardian of the Huntite Khanate, encouraged violence and conspiracies against Tokugaistus' representatives. Finally, on 17 November 1123, the Homidinian representatives were driven from Jasonia and forced to flee back to their master's dominions. Three days later, a assembly of noblemen, government officials, and members of the imperial household selected the Huntite-Dasian clerk Josalio as the new Khan of the Huntite Khanate. Cadillo, who had organized the assembly and bribed its members to vote for his nominee, was appointed Guardian of the Huntite Khanate and Supreme Commander of the Dasian Forces. Encouraged by the new Guardian, Josalio declared Tokugaistus to be a enemy of the blood line (25 November 1123) and severed all diplomatic relations with the Homidinian Khanate. Two days later, Theodoric announced his support for the new Khan of the Huntite Khanate.

Upon Josalio's elevation, Wrangia Althia, with her two children Dost and In'sara, was forced to flee the Huntite Khanate in December 1123. Evading a pursuit fleet sent by Cadillo, the Khaness Dowager and her children reached Chalassia on a unmarked starfighter. There, they were greeted by Khan Tokugaistus, who granted them spacious quarters in the Imperial Palace, provided them with a household and personal military corps of their own, and declared his interest in their positions in the Huntite Khanate. Tokugaistus was enraged by the declaration of him as a enemy of the blood line. As a result, he announced, in a declaration of 2 January 1124 to his subjects, that the new rulers of the Huntite Khanate were usurpers. Two months later, on 7 March 1124, Tokugaistus elevated his cousin Dost as Khan of the Huntite Khanate, declaring him to be the legitimate ruler of those territories. Josalio, who in a act of independence revoked his sentence against the Homidinian Khan, overruled the objections of the Guardian and attempted to obtain diplomatic recognition for his title. Although the Crimeanian Khanate under Mehmed Giray extended recognition, the Venasian and Kazanian Khanates did not. Tokugaistus also refused to acknowledge Josalio's rule, but nevertheless refrained from war for several months. This was to give him enough time to assemble his military forces to install Dost on the throne of the Huntite Khanate by force. Gibbeoneous describes him as "one who was a master of patience, one who is willing to wait to achieve his political goals."

On 23 October 1124, Tokugaistus formally declared war against the Huntite Khanate, and on 7 November, Homidinian units crossed the Rebeccan Galactic Trade Route, assaulting Elijahana, Robert, Meris, Beharis, Shephard, Walters, Hasselbeck, Leah, and Lorna. Cadillo and Josalio had fortified these worlds, and they had taken advantage of Argatu's reforms, stationing powerful formations in the Robertian Regions. The Homidinian advance quickly stalled. Although a force under the command of Tokugaistus' general, Baji, gained a victory in the Battle of Meris (10-11 November 1124) and stormed Elijahana, a offensive against Beharis was blunted (13 November 1124). Cadillo then executed a surprise counteroffensive against Yutzy and Dion, sacking both of those strongholds (15-21 November 1124). A assault upon Homidinia by a collection of Huntite, Jageronian, and mercenary units was defeated by Baji in the Battle of Iego (22-25 November 1124).

On 2 December, Walters was besieged by the Homidinian forces, but the Huntite units outflanked the Homidinian squadrons at Uris, Suroth, and Meredita. A series of bitter skirmishes, ambushes, and confrontations raged in the Huntite Regions, and millions of sapient beings were butchered (December 1124-January 1125). In one incident, on New Year's Day 1125, 70,000 colonists in the Boii star system were slaughtered by a Homidinian armada. In another incident, on 5 January 1125, nearly three million beings on Gunita II were put to the blaster by Huntite marauders. The Robertian and Homidinian Regions became a no-man's land, with death and destruction being brought to the inhabitants of those regions. Tokugaistus sent a emissary to Theodoric in February 1125, begging the King of Ashlgothia to switch his allegiance to Dost. Theodoric at first stayed out of the conflict, and on 1 March, signed a new financial assistance pact with Cadillo and Josalio. Eventually, however, he was lured by the prospects of power and territory.

On 11 March, after the Huntites had finally managed to conquer Walters and had seized Leah, the Ashlgothian King changed his allegiance to Dost and launched a major offensive into the Barsar Regions. Nanking (12 March 1125); Christopher (14 March 1125); Kimania (21 March 1125); Filorean (22-27 March 1125); Constipex (2-9 April 1125); and Kimanis Mooria (10-12 April 1125) fell to his armadas. Josalio and Cadillo were now forced to divert units to Messalina, Offshora, Chobania, Samantha, Armenia Major, Beverly Hereidu, and the worlds of the lower Kimanian Trade Run to prevent a advance towards Henderson, Newman Victoria, and Nikki Lowell. This allowed the Homidinians to advance further. Meris was secured from further attack (15-19 March 1125); Hasselbeck and Beharis were conquered (21-24 March 1125); and the defenses of Lorna were breached (27-29 March 1125). Meredita and Robert fell into Homidinian hands during April 1125, just as the Ashlgothians launched a offensive against Chobania which succeeded (5-10 April 1125). By the end of April, Samantha, Abshire, and Riley had also been conquered, and Offshora, Beverly Hereidu, Armenia Major, and Messalina were isolated.

On 2 May, Elijahana was stormed by the Homidinians. Five days later, the last Huntite force in the Robertian Regions was crushed in the Battle of Solary. Josalio and Cadillo, who were now desperate, sent emissaries to Tokugaistus, offering to share the Huntite throne with Dost. They also sent emissaries to Theodoric, requesting a separate peace deal with him. Both Theodoric and Tokugaistus refused, determined on asserting their complete dominance in the Huntite Khanate. Theodoric, from his command post on Kimania, conquered Millard (3-7 May 1125) and drove a Huntite fleet off at Nikki Lowell (10-11 May 1125), site of so many battles in the past. Maurya was conquered (12-16 May 1125), followed by Bryce (17-21 May 1125); Tahon (22-25 May 1125); and Henderson (26-30 May 1125). Samarkand in the meantime, was seized by the Homidinians (3-9 May 1125), followed by Gabriella (10-11 May 1125); Maurya (12-14 May 1125); and Sheldonia (15-21 May 1125). During June 1125, Newman Victoria, Gedrosia, Champagna, and Elizeta also fell to the Ashlgothian forces, while Hunt Minor was devastated by the Homidinians. Josalio and Cadillo were now pulling units back to Hunt Major, Prestley, Natadzha, Jasonia, and other remaining strongholds.

The Homidinian forces made little progress during July and August 1125, because they were harassed by ambush ships dispatched by the Huntite Guardian. This was also compounded by the fact that Cadillo had ordered the establishment of extensive minefields around Hunt Major, Prestley, and the Huntite Home Worlds, which the coalition had to remove before they could launch any further military campaigns. Theodoric too, was unable to advance north of the Kimanian Trade Run, and now diverted his attention to the last remaining Huntite strongholds in the Barsar Regions. He conquered Offshora (4 July 1125); stormed Messalina (10-15 July 1125); and overran the Armenian systems (August 1125). By 5 September, the last remaining footholds of the Huntites in the Barsar Regions had been extinguished, with the conquest of Strongstine, Drea, and Duana. On 5 September, the Homidinians cleared the last of the minefields, although they had lost nearly 300 warships in their efforts. Five days later, Hunt Major was besieged. It only fell on 27 September. Prestley was then bombarded and stormed (1-5 October 1125) followed by Natadzha (6-9 October 1125).

At this time, Cadalio and Josalio, who were now at the lowest point in their fortunes, dispatched Lieutenant General Bodi Aligh (who had at one time been a hostage in the court of Alaric) into the Galactic Void by means of a secret hyperspace route. The two Huntite rulers charged the General with gathering a Brestord mercenary force. After being released from Alaric's court in September 1108, Bodi Aligh had been recruited by the Brestords as a auxiliary, and he spent seven years in the service of their King, Roura (r. 1091-1134). During this time, he acquired considerable military and political knowledge about them and the other barbarian hordes, information he would use to his advantage during his military campaigns of the 1120s, 1130s, and 1140s. In October 1115, he resigned from the Brestord hordes and traveled back into the Outer Borderlands, joining the Huntite armed forces. Over the next ten years, Bodi Aligh had, by his use of the knowledge on the barbarian hordes and his tactical awareness, advanced through the ranks. Thus, by the time Josalio had usurped the Huntite throne, Bodi Aligh was one of the leading military commanders. Josalio and Cadillo now hoped that he could turn the war into their favor.

On 11 October, Bodi Aligh arrived at the nomadic court of King Roura. Roura received his old friend and subordinate with open arms, and for the next four days, the Brestord court engaged itself in a marathon of banquets, dances, and festivals. On 16 October, Bodi Aligh began the formal negotiations with Roura. The Treaty of the Outer Point (referring to the location of the Brestord hordes outside the Galaxy, about 100,000 light years to the east of the Galactic Vector), was signed on 21 October 1125. By the terms of this agreement, Roura agreed to provide a substantial corps of Brestord marauders and warships to Bodi Aligh, in exchange for 1.2 million Huntite, Robertian, and Sheldonian slaves, as well as a payment of $543.4 trillion Dasian dataries. On 24 October, Bodi Aligh went into hyperspace with his new horde. During all this time, however, the Homidinian forces had advanced towards Jasonia, disarming the last remaining Huntite defense armadas. On the very day that Bodi Aligh departed from the Brestord nomadic "camping site," Jasonia was besieged by the Homidinian armada. Josalio and Cadillo hoped that Bodi Aligh would arrive and sent him a emergency message, which was disrupted by the Homidinian communication relays.

On 25 October 1125, Jasonia was conquered by the Homidinian fleet. Josalio and Cadillo, who had been unable to escape the planet because of the siege, were killed with their personal bodyguards as they fought Homidinian and Dasian warriors who struggled into the Redoubt of the Jasonian Palace. Later that day, Tokugaistus arrived from Chalassia. A assembly of Huntite noblemen, government officials, military commanders, regional governors, and officials of the imperial household was hastily summoned. This assembly confirmed the appointment of Dost as Khan of the Huntite Khanate, naming his mother Wrangia Althia the new Guardian and Regent of the Huntite Khanate, to govern the state in the name of her son until he was to come of age. The assembly also granted Tokugaistus a payment of $394.6 trillion dataries, as compensation for his military campaigns in the Huntite Khanate, as well as 3.4 million slaves. In turn, Tokugaistus returned all territories which had been overrun by his forces to the authority of the Huntite Khanate. He also agreed to assist in the negotiations with Theodoric. After these arrangements had been made, and a timetable set for the delivery of the slaves and tribute, Tokugaistus departed from Jasonia on 26 October, returning to Chalassia.

The following day, Bodi Aligh and his hordes, who had been slowed in their hyperspace travel by the non-existence of established hyperspace routes through the Galactic Void, penetrated the Galactic Vector and appeared at Sheldonia. Wrangia Althia and Dost, who at that point had few units available to them (since the forces of Tokugaistus had withdrawn), found themselves in a new predicament. Bodi Aligh however, learned of the deaths of his former masters. He now realized that he could elevate himself to a higher position then he had held before. On 28 October, he sent a emissary to Jasonia, offering a peace. Wrangia Althia accepted. On 29 October, the Terms of Sheldonia were negotiated and signed. By the terms of this pact, Bodi Aligh agreed to send his force of Brestords back to Roura and to recognize the authority of Dost and Wrangia Althia. In turn, Wrangia Althia agreed to assume the burden of payment to the Brestords and granted Bodi Aligh the title of pra'kgagol (Supreme Commander) of the Huntite Armed Forces, with absolute authority over all Huntite military and diplomatic forces. Bodi Aligh also was appointed as one of Wrangia Althia's chief political advisers and assistants for the Regency.

With this arrangement concluded, concerns now turned to other matters: the coronation of the Khan, the conclusion of peace with Theodoric, and the payment of the Brestord barbarians. Wrangia Althia granted Bodi Aligh permission to use his Brestord hordes against the Ashlgothians, but stipulated that they were to be paid and sent back immediately after the campaigns were concluded. The Huntite Regent was determined that the territories lost to the Ashlgothians be recovered before any treaty with Theodoric was made. On 3 November, Dost was formally crowned as Khan of the Huntite Khanate, while his mother took the oath of office as Regent. Two days later, Bodi Aligh instigated his military campaigns against the Ashlgothians. He reconquered Nikki Lowell (6 November 1125); stormed Newman Victoria (8 November 1125); and ended Ashlgothian raids into the Huntite Home Regions (10-13 November 1125). On 16 November, his attempt to storm Drea failed, but on 19 November, he lifted the siege of Roastafaria Major, which had remained under Huntite rule, and drove Theodoric's forces to the Kimanian Run. In a series of hard-fought skirmishes and battles, which nevertheless resulted in victory because of the Brestords, Kimania, Kimanis Mooria, Filorean, Constipex, and Millard were reconquered (November 1125-February 1126).

Theodoric, who was experiencing the loss of his territorial gains, reorganized his forces and launched a renewed counteroffensive in Maurya and Gedrosia (February-March 1126), which Bodi Aligh managed to repel. On 3 April, Drea was reconquered on the second attempt, followed by Duana (7 April 1126); Riley (10-13 April 1126); Strongstine (15 April 1126); and Abshire (16-21 April 1126). By the end of April, Huntite units had advanced across the Kimanian Trade Run towards Chobania and Offshora. In May, Theodoric crushed a Huntite force in the Battle of Brickelman, but then suffered a reverse at Simmons (20-29 May 1126), which resulted in his withdrawal from Bookman. Nanking was conquered (1-8 June 1126). Christopher was then subjected to a fierce siege from 9 June, and it did not fall to Huntite-Brestord forces until 27 July. On 3 August, Samantha was reconquered and Messalina isolated. Theodoric then sallied forth again, briefly reconquering Kimania (4-7 August 1126) and driving to Filorean (10-13 August 1126). Bodi Aligh however, halted him at Leo's Redoubt (17 August 1126). On 20 August, Messalina was reconquered. Chobania resisted until it was reconquered on 15 September. Offshora was recovered on 21 September. Finally, on 1 October, Huntite units reached the Denveranian Trunk Line. Theodoric, who was afraid that his prime dominions would be subject to attack, sued for peace on 6 October. The Treaty of Lura (10 October 1126) resulted in Theodoric recognizing Wrangia Althia and Dost as the rulers of the Huntite Khanate. He retroceded all of his conquests in the Barsar Regions, agreed to resume his obligation of defending the Huntite Khanate from outside threats, and promised to pay Bodi Aligh a indemnity of $199.3 trillion dataries as compensation for the military campaigns. This money would be used by the Supreme Commander to assist in the payment of the Brestords.

Now that the Ashlgothians had been repelled and subdued again under Huntite overlordship, Bodi Aligh and Wrangia Althia turned their attention to two matters of extreme financial importance: the payment of the Brestords and the payment of Tokugaistus. The Treaty of the Outer Point had mandated that its lease terms would expire on 11 April 1126, after which Roura could employ his own force to punish the Huntite Khanate for nonpayment. Bodi Aligh had dispatched a emissary to the court of Roura, and the lease had been extended on 10 April, just minutes before it would have expired. The extension was to end on 12 February 1127. Bodi Aligh and Wrangia Althia also had to pay Tokugaistus, who was threatening to invade the Huntite Khanate on his own initiative if he was not paid by 25 December 1127. Bodi Aligh focused on the Brestords first, as he wanted to retain his positive standing with Roura. Theodoric paid his indemnity on 1 November, which Bodi Aligh immediately directed to the credit accounts of the Brestord King. There was still $344.1 trillion dataries left to be paid however, and Wrangia Althia now used a number of expedients to raise the funds. In November 1126, she imposed a elevated tsarist vy'hod on every thirty star systems in the Huntite Khanate. Each star system was obliged to pay a certain amount of money depending on its population.

Robert, with a population of 136 billion as of 1126, paid nearly 20% of the tax levels raised, while Oulum, with a population of only twenty-five miners, paid a measly $150. By December, $111.7 trillion had been raised through this tax. This was also paid into the coffers of the Brestord King, but $232.4 trillion remained unpaid. Wrangia Althia severely reduced the expenses of the imperial household, imposed a monthly deduction on the salaries of all household and Regency officials, forced the merchants and businessmen of Hunt Major, Samarkand, Jasonia, Sheldonia, Gabriella, and other worlds to contribute 4% of their sales profits, and extracted a series of loans, dues, customs, and rents from a variety of nobles, magnates, landowners, and private citizens. The remainder of the money was raised on 12 February 1127, the very day of the expiration of the extension. It was paid to the Brestord King two days later, along with a interest payment of $29.8 trillion dataries for the overdue costs. The Brestord mercenaries left Huntite territory on 21 February and traveled back into the Galactic Void, after King Roura had issued a receipt confirmation of the payment.

The attention of Bodi Aligh and Wrangia Althia immediately turned to the matter of payment for Khan Tokugaistus. The treasury of the Huntite Khanate had been bled dry to provide the funds for the payment of the Brestords. Nevertheless, Tokugaistus also had to be compensated. The Homidinian Khan had Jageronians, Rudorites, Melorks, Brentarks, and other barbarians in his own forces, and was running short on the funds with which to pay them. Thus he applied extensive diplomatic pressure on the Huntite court to fulfill its obligations. Wrangia Althia employed the same methods as described above, while Bodi Aligh and his Huntite units extorted, blackmailed, or threatened worlds unless if they contributed their share of the payment. Everyone from nobles to the lowliest commoner was forced to contribute, and a tax on the use of slaves was imposed, to be paid by their owners. By these methods, and by a series of vigorous techniques to ensure accurate collection, the $394.6 trillion dataries for Tokugaistus were raised in November 1127. The transfer of the payment occurred on 2 December, just as Tokugaistus was beginning to conduct military exercises for a invasion, had the payment not come. Finally, however, there was the indemnity that Wrangia Althia had promised to pay to Bodi Aligh. This indemnity, which had to be mustered from the resources of a financially exhausted dominion, was not raised until 3 January 1130.

In the meantime, Bodi Aligh had involved himself in the affairs of the Huntite military. He was determined to deal with the various barbarian hordes who had brought anarchy to Vickis, Shenandonana, Roastafaria, Melanie, and the other regions of the Middle Territories, to the borders of Ashlgothia. From February 1128 to April 1129, the Supreme Commander conducted expeditions in Roastafaria against the Salarian Melorkians, under the command of their king Cholodio. Cholodio had led his war bands in harrying Roastafaria Major, Rose, Jack, Dantrise, and other worlds of the upper Kimanian Trade Run in the Middle Territories. Bodi Aligh managed to destroy the Melorkian stronghold on Hulio (2-7 March 1128); defeated Cholodio in the Battle of the Cantmary Mist (10-17 March 1128); and halted Melorkian operations along the Melanie Trade Line (April 1128). It took another year of skirmishes, ambushes, and raids, however, before the Melorkians were finally subdued. On 27 April 1129, the Supreme Commander forced Cholodio to sign the Treaty of Zellwegger. By the terms of this agreement, Cholodio agreed to recognize the Huntite Khanate as his suzerain and Dost as his overlord. He promised to defend the Roastafarian territories from the intrusion of other barbarian hordes.

Accession of Genseric to the Kuevian Throne; Genseric's Conquest of Huntite and Venasian Territories in the Inner Territories; Kaidu's Opposition to Bodi Aligh; Failure of the Supreme Commander's Expedition against Kaidu (1127-1130)

A new and far more menacing threat however, now arose which was to threaten both the Huntite Khanate and the Crimeanian Khanate. The Kuevians had been a nuisance ever since their entry into the Caladarian Galaxy in 1106. Under King Gunderic (r. 1108-28), the Kuevians had launched repeating harrying raids and operations against Bar'say, Ondi'iray, Par'say, Way'tosk, Temperance, and the other old Millian worlds, although they did not yet consolidate themselves in a settled territory. They waged numerous battles and frontier raids against the Crimeanian Khanate under Mengli Giray and his son Mehmed Giray (who managed to stall their advance westwards), with the Venasian Khanate under Qasim II, and with the Donguarian Stellar Empire. The Kuevians had also competed with some of the other barbarian hordes who had entered the Caladarian Galaxy in 1106, such as the Hortons, who had seized control of the old Millian colony-world of Tempura, and with the Jajanics, who constantly harried Elijahana and the borderland worlds of the Homidinian Khanate. This is to say nothing of their clashes with the Ashlgothians under Athaulf, Wallia, and Theodoric from 1112 to 1124, who had forced them to retreat north from the Barsar Regions. In January 1127, Gunderic, who sought to take advantage of the distraction provided by the money collection efforts in the Huntite Khanate, launched a major offensive against Melanie, Hoohshikk, Vickis, Uris, and Choir. Bodi Aligh however, managed to sign the Treaty of Singia (9 March 1127) with the Kuevian King, by which, in exchange for temporary control of Roastafaria Minor, Griffith, and Peteria, Gunderic agreed to halt further raids into Huntite territory.

This agreement lasted until Gunderic's death. Bodi Aligh subsequently assigned the military commander Kaidu as governor of Shenandoah, Vickis, Roastafaria, and the eastern Millian systems. Kaidu however, who nurtured his own ambitions and wished to become the new Supreme Commander, now involved himself in a series of plots and conspiracies, seeking to undermine Bodi Aligh's position. As such, he was distracted from the activities of the Kuevians, who strengthened their units and extracted from the worlds under their control. Tensions finally erupted in November 1127, when Kaidu formally denied the authority of the Supreme Commander and declared his intentions to usurp Bodi Aligh's position in the Huntite Khanate. As Bodi Aligh was distracted by his tribute-raising efforts and by his preparations for campaigns against the Salarian Melorkians, who rampaged in other regions of Roastafaria, Kaidu managed to maintain his rebel position for a number of months. At the height of his revolt in February 1128, all of Shenandoah, Melanie, Zellwegger, Hookshikk, Vickis, Uris, Choir, Chambria, Boydaria, and Elijahana were under his control.

In the meantime, on 27 December 1127, Gunderic acknowledged his younger half-brother, Genseric, as his heir apparent. On 17 March 1128, Gunderic died and Genseric became King of the Kuevians (r. 1128-77). Genseric, who was to rule for the next forty-eight years, and was to have the longest active reign of any monarch of the twelfth century (and the second-longest reign overall, behind only Honorius the Terrible), was to be one of the major figures responsible for the collapse of Dasian power in the Caladarian Galaxy. He focused his attentions on bringing the Jajanics and Hortons under his rule, on making preparations for future military campaigns, and on framing a agreement with the Ashlgothians. The Jajanics, who were divided into two prime war-bands, were dealt with by a policy of deception and dissimulation. On 18 April, just a month after he became King, Genseric sent a emissary to the first Jajanic war-band leader Sigerht (r. 1121-28), offering to hold a congress with that warband on the discussion of "common economic, diplomatic, cultural, and military matters." Sigerht, who believed that Genseric was interested in a genuine alliance, accepted the offer. On 5 May 1128, a congress was convened on Allana. Sigerht arrived with a personal escort fleet and his corps of bodyguards, alongside his advisers. At the meeting however, Genseric was able to lure the Jajanic chieftain and his men into a private chamber, where he had poison gas pumped in. Sigerht and his entourage were killed immediately. Alarmed and horrified by this display of treachery, and in awe of Genseric's abilities, the First Jajanic Warband submitted to Genseric's authority. Genseric then had some trouble with subduing the other warband, which would not allow itself to fall under Kuevian control so easily.

Nevertheless, all of the Jajanics had been subjugated by Genseric by the end of June 1128. The King of the Kuevians now turned his attention to the Hortons. It required a series of bitterly-fought military campaigns to subdue the Horton bands, but they were nevertheless under his control by October 1128. With three different barbarian species under his command, Genseric now turned his intention to integrating them into a unified force and conducting military reforms. In November 1128, the Kuevian King introduced a unified system of command for the hordes, eliminating the previous leadership positions, such as the war-band masters of the Jajanics and the horde commanders of the Hortons. These were now replaced with the Kuevian system of marshal-generals. Common uniforms, discipline, and fleet regulations were also introduced. The King emphasized professionalism, organization, and supremacy in numbers. Genseric also dispatched a emissary to the court of Theodoric on Ashlgothia, seeking to frame a lasting treaty between the two barbarian kingdoms. At first, Theodoric was hostile towards the Kuevian embassy, but he eventually realized that a peace would allow both barbarian hordes to coexist and develop their strengths. The Treaty of Ashlgothia (3 January 1129), resulted in the Ashlgothians recognizing Kuevian rights to campaign in the Inner and Middle Territories. In turn, the Kuevians recognized Ashlgothian rights and dominance in the regions west of the Kimanian Trade Run, such as Larkin, Brooke One, Emily Deustiania, Lesia, and the western Barsar Regions.

Genseric spent the remainder of 1129, until December, building up his military strength and reorganizing his units. Kaidu, who remained in a state of rebellion against Bodi Aligh, occupied by his campaigns against the Salarian Melorkians, made little effort to expand his available military units or to consolidate his base of power. He instead indulged himself in pleasures on Shenandoah, becoming known for his pursuits with his various mistresses, his lavish spending on the matters and ceremonies of his court, and on his vigorous patronage of various cultural projects. Kaidu also paid little attention to the actions of the barbarian hordes, thus allowing Genseric to continue his preparations of war. After a period thus of inactivity (not including the campaigns of Bodi Aligh against the Salarian Melorkians), Genseric finally embarked upon his plans. On 21 December 1129, the King of the Kuevians declared his intention to find a new territory for his people to reside in, and announced that the occupation of such territory could only come at the expense of the Dasian authorities. Six days later, the Kuevian armadas and hordes left the Roastafarian territories.

Proceeding up the Kimanian Trade Run, they devastated the worlds and outposts along the way: Falornia (22-26 December 1129); Rose (1-5 January 1130); Pailbirth (6-11 January 1130); Acamaria (13-17 January 1130); and Endaker (10-21 January 1130). In February 1130, Genseric directed his hordes into the Inner Territories. The Millian systems were now exposed to a series of swift and brutal assaults. Predosur was besieged and captured (3-7 February 1130), followed by a Kuevian victory over a Venasian-Huntite defense fleet in the Battle of Jonathania (10-11 February 1130). Bor'say was attacked and plundered (12-17 February 1130), followed by Bacturius Invictis (20-25 February 1130); Cagania (1-3 March 1130); Katharnovich (5-9 March 1130); Nicholas (10-15 March 1130); and Schriver (17-25 March 1130). Although a Huntite defense fleet managed to repel a offensive against Temperance (1-7 April 1130), Genseric overran Ond'diray (10-17 April 1130) and sacked Bar'say (20-27 April 1130).

In the meantime, Bodi Aligh, who was unable to deal directly with the Kuevian invasions because of Kaidu's opposition, faced further struggles within the Huntite court. On Jasonia, the general Temur (1078-1130), who had established contacts with the rebel governor of Shenandoah, stirred up dissent against the Supreme Commander. He spread rumors within the Imperial Court that Bodi Aligh was planning to depose Dost from the throne and that he intended to install himself as the new Khan of the Huntite Khanate. Bodi Aligh denied the truth of these rumors and began searching for a excuse to rid himself of his rival. On 3 May 1130, Temur and his wife Zetian (1082-1130) were arrested by officers sent by the Supreme Commander, who had secured the consent of Wrangia Althia. They were tired in the Public Chambers of Hunt Major on 6 May, being convicted by a assembly hand-picked by the Supreme Governor and his subordinates. On 11 May 1130, Temur, Zetian, and their associates were executed, thus eliminating a threat to the Supreme Governor's position. Bodi Aligh's attention was then diverted to Christopher, as King Theodoric had decided to dispatch an armada under the command of his general, Anaolsus (1090-1136), to assault Huntite positions in the Eastern Barsar Regions. Anaolsus besieged and conquered Nanking (13-15 May 1130); sacked Bookman (20-23 May 1130); subdued the worlds of the Orion Cluster (25-27 May 1130); and isolated Christopher (1-4 June 1130).

Bodi Aligh, mustering units from Beverly Hereidu, Kimania, Kimanis Mooria, Messalina, Chobania, and Samantha, blunted a offensive by the Ashlgothians against Filorean (5-9 June 1130) and secured Christopher from further attack (10-13 June 1130). He then reconquered Nanking (15-17 June 1130) and ranged up the Kimanian Trade Run, destroying outposts erected by the Ashlgothian armadas (20-25 June 1130). During all this time, Genseric had finally conquered Temperance (1-15 May 1130); subdued Par'say (16-21 May 1130); and harried the Millian home systems (May-June 1130), while posing a threat to Majoria Schall and Acamaria. Bodi Aligh however, needed to deal with the Ashlgothians. On 27 June, he defeated Anaolsus in the Battle of Skyler, and forced the Ashlgothian General to agree to negotiations. The Treaty of Mons Colubarius (3 July 1130), resulted in the Ashlgothians affirming Huntite control of the Barsar Regions east of the Denveranian Trunk Line. Bodi Aligh now was finally able to send units to deal with Kaidu. He also hoped to repel Genseric and reassert control in the Inner Territories. The Laurasian mercenary-general Sigisvistulus Medurnius, who was one of the Supreme Commander's leading subordinates, departed from Robert on 7 July 1130 with his force. He reconquered Elijahana (10-11 July 1130) and harried Deborah (12-17 July 1130), before clearing rebel forces from Uris (20-22 July 1130). He also managed to repel Horton raids in Roastafarian territories. On 2 August 1130, Vickis and Hoohshikk were reconquered by General Sigisvistulus, who now posed a threat to Melanie Major, Majoria Schall, and Boydaria. Kaidu was now desperate.

Genseric, who had spent the preceding months consolidating his position in the Millian regions, now instigated a major siege of Way'tosk, the ancient capital world of the Millian Empire. The King of the Kuevians desired to have this world in his possession, as it would cement his position at the head of a new and powerful barbarian kingdom. Way'tosk had been defended by a collection of Huntite, Millian, Jageronian, Alexandrian, Devianiani, mercenary, and Shenandonanan units which had been quickly mustered by its Governor, the Dasian nobleman Yesun (1087-1130). Genseric organized his armadas and laid the planet under siege from 4 August 1130. Despite the haphazard collection of Way'toskian defense units, Yesun managed to resist the Kuevians for over two months. A Almitian missionary on Way'tosk, Augustine (1072-1134), was appointed by the Governor as the Spiritual Officer of Way'tosk, being charged with maintaining faith and hope among the population and the garrison of Way'tosk. Augustine implored the people of Way'tosk to bear in their minds that "the Great God of the Universe will preserve you against your enemies." Genseric, when he received word from his officers on how the people of Way'tosk were thus being implored, stated that "the Spiritual Officer is deluded, for that God which he refers to is on my side and will allow me to obtain victory." The Kuevian King's statement was "proven" when the defenses of Way'tosk were finally breached on 7 October 1130. The defensive armada of the world was swiftly crushed, and Kuevian units landed on the surface. Yesun and his officers died while leading their men in a sally against the Kuevians.

Augustine was captured, but Genseric, who held a respect for all religious officials (despite his earlier opinion noted), ordered for his life to be spared. Indeed, he took the elderly Laurasian missionary and priest on as one of his staff chaplains. Augustine was to serve in the household of the Kuevian King until his death on 1 June 1134. In the meantime, Genseric himself arrived in victorious procession on Way'tosk (10 October 1130), and declared that his species had finally constituted their royal territory. Three days later, he formally proclaimed Way'tosk to be his capital world. Kaidu, realizing that he would not be able to reassert the Huntite position in the Inner Territories, and desperate for assistance against Sigisvistulus, sent a emissary to Genseric on 17 October 1130. He recognized the Kuevian position in the Inner Territories and in turn, requested Genseric's assistance against Sigisvistulus. Genseric accepted the offer on 21 October 1130. On 25 October 1130, the Treaty of Boydaria was signed, confirming these arrangements. On 27 October, Genseric launched a series of offensives against Sigisvistulus' positions. He destroyed a Huntite advance fleet in the Battle of Pooch (30-31 October 1130); conquered Elijahana (1-2 November 1130); and subdued Juno (3-7 November 1130), before fortifying Deborah (10-11 November 1130) and securing Shenandoah from further attack (12-18 November 1130). On 2 December, Uris and Choir were reconquered, followed five days later by Counatamy. On 6 December, Hoohshikk was secured by Genseric. Five days later, Sigisvistulus suffered a final defeat in the Battle of Ball, and was captured. Kaidu had secured his position, but had to sign the additional Treaty of Jane (17 December 1130), by which he agreed to acknowledge Genseric as his overlord.

Kaidu's Agreement with Wrangia Althia and Bodi Aligh; The Supreme Commander's Campaign against the Devianiani; Genseric's Advance into the Middle Territories; Struggle between Kaidu and Bodi Aligh for the Supreme Command; Bodi Aligh secures aid of Roura; Death of Kaidu; Bodi Aligh regains position as Supreme Commander; The Supreme Commander wars with the Melorks and the Rudorites of Jurgunia; Death of Roura; Attila and Bleda become co-Kings of the Brestords; Brestords settle in Outer Borderlands by agreement with Homidinian and Huntite Khanates (1131-1137)

Bodi Aligh, who was alarmed by the defeat of the anti-rebellion expedition, now pressured Wrangia Althia to effect a reconciliation with Kaidu, as he correctly surmised that the rebel Governor of Shenandoah would prefer to be under Dasian authority. Kaidu opened a secret holocomm channel with the court of Jasonia and negotiations were conducted throughout January 1131. Finally, by the secret Treaty of Meris (4 February 1131), Kaidu agreed to terminate his rebellion and to renew his oath of homage to Wrangia Althia, Dost, and Bodi Aligh. In turn, Bodi Aligh pledged to assist the Governor of Shenandoah in military campaigns against the Kuevians, to overthrow the terms of the Treaty of Jane, defeat Genseric, and recover the lost regions in the Inner Territories. The Supreme Commander of the Huntite Khanate dispatched a force of battleships, dreadnoughts, destroyers, and cruisers to Uris (7 February 1131), alongside a collection of Alexandrian, Robertian, Jageronian, Huttile, Ashlgothian, Devianiani, Amelianian, and mercenary units which he had managed to muster. At first, Kaidu, who had a enlarged force under his command, managed to obtain some victories. He subdued Reese (10-13 February 1131); secured Boydaria (15-21 February 1131); and defeated a Kuevian squadron in the Battle of Summers (25 February 1131). On 3 March, a Huntite squadron destroyed the Kuevian base established on Bailiana, followed five days later by the elimination of a Kuevian patrol fleet stationed on Alonthria. Genseric however, now reorganized his forces, and he switched to a strategy of deception. He lured the Huntite fleet into a trap in the unstable red supergiant system of Catilin Alloh (10-15 March 1131), triggering a supernova through use of a thermo-fusion projectile.

The entire Huntite fleet was obliterated. Afterwards, Genseric regained the advantage, as he conquered Christian (20-24 March 1131), subdued Darrow (29 March-4 April 1131), and destroyed the Huntite post on Nottingham (5-19 April 1131). He then besieged and captured Boydaria (21-25 April 1131), before securing Majoria Schall (2-7 May 1131) and harrying the worlds of the Melanie Trunk Line (May-July 1131). On 7 August 1131, Kaidu was defeated in the Battle of Chethacca, and was forced to retreat from Shenandonana. Genseric, consolidating his gains, surrounded the Shenandonan capital systems with forces from the west. In September, Bodi Aligh, who was facing a new threat from the Devianiani in the Barsar Regions, requested a armistice with the Kuevians. The Armistice of Temsevar (2 October 1131), resulted in the Huntite recognition of the Kuevian Kingdom and its rule over the Millian worlds of the Inner Territories. In turn, Genseric agreed to recognize continued Huntite rule over the Middle Territories east of the Kuevian Kingdom and north-east of the Kimanian Trade Run. Bodi Aligh, who had thus secured a temporary solution in that region, now crossed the Kimanian Trade Run and launched a offensive against the Devianiani leader Rugila in November 1131, defeating Devianiani advance units near Beverly Hereidu, Armenia Major, and Abshire. He then halted a Devianiani offensive against Strongstine (2-5 December 1131); fortified Riley (17 December 1131); and destroyed Devianiani outposts in the Wild Marshes along the southern end of the Denveranian Trunk Line (December 1131-February 1132), before raiding and sacking Sharon Alfonsi (3-7 March 1132), which had served as a major Devianiani fortress. Hamacaki Barka, Miller, and Pocket were then pillaged (March-May 1132), inflicting additional losses on the Devianiani units.

Kaidu, having returned to Jasonia in December 1131, now took advantage of Bodi Aligh's absence to establish himself as the new Supreme Commander of the Huntite Khanate. Wrangia Althia, who was becoming wary of Bodi Aligh, and believed that he was plotting against her to seize the Huntite Guardianship (a fear which proved false), encouraged Kaidu's plans. Kaidu bolstered his military escort with mercenary, Huntite, and Dasian units provided by the Guardian. Wrangia Althia issued a series of financial and territorial grants to the former Shenandonan Governor during the early months of 1132, strengthening his position. During all this time, she sent letters of congratulation to Bodi Aligh, praising him for his victories against the Devianiani barbarians. Finally, however, she dropped the pretense, and on 2 June 1132, just as Bodi Aligh launched an offensive against Ain Jalut, that star system which had been the site of Kitbuga's defeat at the hands of the Lesians 272 years earlier, Wrangia Althia formally dismissed him from his position as Supreme Commander of the Huntite Khanate, confiscated all of his estates and residences, and declared him a enemy of the blood line.

Two days later, she formally declared Kaidu to be the new Supreme Commander and granted him authority over all military forces. Bodi Aligh, receiving news of these events through the Holonet, was afraid that his forces would now turn on him. His subordinates and personnel however, had become devoted to their commander, who they respected for his honesty, determination, intelligence, and energy. On 5 June, they reaffirmed their allegiance to him. Bodi Aligh, who now had to reassert his position in the Huntite Regions, started negotiations with the Devianiani. On 10 June 1132, the Treaty of Malagia was signed. By the terms of this treaty, Rugila agreed to acknowledge Dasian rule over the eastern Barsar Regions and conceded Ain Jalut, Sharon Alfonsi, and the fortresses of the Trans-Strongstine Nebula to the Huntite Khanate. In turn, Bodi Aligh confirmed Devianiani possession of its other dominions (the western Barsar Regions to the Ashlgothian territories of Hospallia) and promised to pay a indemnity of $43.4 trillion Dasian marks to Rugila for military expenses.

With this agreement concluded, Bodi Aligh immediately turned his attention to Kaidu. Kaidu had besieged and conquered Nikki Lowell on 8 June 1132, but his offensives against Bookman, Cassie, and Mann were defeated (10-17 June 1132). On 23 June 1132, Bodi Aligh obtained a major victory in the Battle of Tiger, followed by another one in the Battle of Josh Cooks (25-26 June 1132). On 28 June, he conquered Maurya, driving the units of Kaidu towards Jasonia. Gabriella was reconquered (1 July 1132), while Bodi Aligh sent units which secured his dominion over Shenandoah (July-August 1132). Kaidu however, blunted his offensives against Robert, Meris, Shepherd, and Walters, managing to obtain a reprieve in the Battle of Hanges (23-27 August 1132). Bodi Aligh then conquered Samarkand (2-9 September 1132) and secured Hunt Major (10-15 September 1132), making up for these earlier failures. Kaidu now launched a series of raids and ambushing operations into the Barsar Regions. Messalina, Abshire, Christopher, and Samantha were threatened, but Bodi Aligh managed to defeat Kaidu's plundering armada in the Battle of Eolio (2-9 October 1132). On 13 October, he conquered Elijahana, and on 17 October, he secured Robert. Jasonia itself was now threatened. Kaidu, desperate to gain some victory, directed a large portion of his armada against the units of Bodi Aligh at the obscure world of Bolau.

In the fierce battle which followed (15-21 October 1132), Kaidu obtained a decisive victory. Most of Bodi Aligh's starfighter squadrons were obliterated, and the Supreme Commander himself was forced to flee. Kaidu subsequently reconquered Robert (1 November 1132), subdued Gabriella (2-5 November 1132); overran the Barsar Regions (November 1132-January 1133); and secured Shenandoah (February-March 1133). Bodi Aligh was defeated again in the Battle of Naulio (2 April 1133) and was forced to flee into the Galactic Void. Now at the lowest point in his fortunes, the renegade Supreme Commander decided to travel to the court of his old ally and friend, King Roura of the Brestords. He arrived at Roura's court on 5 April 1133. Roura, although his health was declining, received Bodi Aligh with great hospitality. When Bodi Aligh informed the Brestord King of his predicament, Roura expressed his sympathies and agreed to provide support to the Supreme Commander, to help him regain his position. By the Treaty of Magoh (9 April 1133), Roura provided a substantial Brestord force to Bodi Aligh, for him to use to defeat his rivals. In return, Bodi Aligh agreed to allow the Brestords to occupy Jagellionia, in the outskirts of the Galactic Disk, which bordered the eastern Galactic Void. Roura was gracious since he did not demand a financial indemnity.

Bodi Aligh departed from the Brestord Nomadic Camp with a large Brestord armada on 12 April 1133. Kaidu received news of how his rival was returning to the Huntite Khanate, this time with a force of the most fearsome barbarians known. Bodi Aligh's armada reached the Galactic Vector on 14 April 1133, immediately encountering a series of elaborate mine-defenses and projectile outposts which had been hastily established by Kaidu and his military construction units. Nevertheless, the Brestords were able to breach the defenses (14-19 April 1133), although they did suffer the loss of a substantial number of starfighters. With the defenses breached, the Brestord armada quickly swept into the Huntite dominions. Bodi Aligh conquered Sheldonia (22 April 1133); besieged and conquered Beharis (25 April 1133); secured the Jageronian Worlds (27-31 April 1133); and subdued Meris (1-5 May 1133). Walters, Hasselbeck, Shepherd, Lorna, and Leah were conquered (May-June 1133), thus destroying Kaidu's defenses in the Robertian Regions. Kaidu now hurried from Hunt Minor to confront the forces of his rival. In the Battle of Rimini (4 July 1133), the former Governor of Shenandoah actually managed to gain a victory over Bodi Aligh's armadas, forcing Bodi Aligh to terminate plans for a offensive against Choir. Kaidu, however, was seriously wounded in the battle, suffering the loss of most of his organic body.

Such serious injuries required him to retreat to Jasonia. Over the course of the next month, the physicians of the Huntite court tried a variety of intensive nano-treatments, surgeries, and liquifum applications, attempting to save his life. Their efforts proved to be in vain. On 3 August 1133, Kaidu expired in the chambers of the Jasagatu Royal Hospital on Jasonia. During that month, Bodi Aligh had recovered from his losses in the Battle of Rimini and had reorganized his armadas. On 5 August, he launched a series of renewed offensives. By 11 August, the Supreme Commander had secured the remainder of the Robertian Units and advanced towards Prestley. Prestley was besieged and captured on 18 August 1133. Two days later, Bodi Aligh stormed Hunt Minor and harried the defenses of Curgurouse, Botha the Hero, and Mamie. Hunt Major was conquered on 7 September 1133, after a bitter siege. Bodi Aligh then conquered Shenandoah (10-12 September 1133); subdued Vickis (15-19 September 1133); conquered Choir (20-21 September 1133); and reduced the strongholds of the Melanie Trade Line (October-November 1133). Finally, on 2 December 1133, he approached Jasonia. Wrangia Althia, although she had a force of Devianiani, Alexandrians, Jageronians, and Dasians under her command, and although she still controlled the Barsar Regions, nevertheless believed that she was in peril.

On 3 December, she sent a emissary to Bodi Aligh, offering to propose terms to him. On 6 December 1133, the Treaty of Jasonia was signed. By the terms of this agreement, Bodi Aligh formally regained his position as Supreme Commander of the Huntite Khanate, and the declaration against him, as regards to the blood line, was revoked. Wrangia Althia promised to never again undertake any action against the Supreme Commander, and granted him supreme immunity from legal and civil charges. Bodi Aligh, if he felt threatened, would be able to use his forces to assert his position. Wrangia Althia also agreed to support Bodi Aligh in gaining the throne of the Crimeanian Khanate, as the Supreme Commander believed that he needed a independent power base of his own. Subsequently, Bodi Aligh was the effective ruler of the Huntite Khanate, retaining his position until his assassination in 1154. Those twenty-one years would be eventful ones.

After recovering his position as Supreme Commander, Bodi Aligh diverted his attention to two matters: dealing with the Salarian Melorkians, as Cholodio had decided to take advantage of the civil wars to again attempt the establishment of his own kingdom over Roastafaria; and contending with the Rudorites, who were beginning to threaten the Huntite position in the southern Barsar Regions. Cholodio, assembling his units at Roastafaria Major, Torriana, and Ruthelaine, launched a major offensive against Nanking (4-8 January 1134), overrunning the world and destroying its defenses. He subsequently subdued Bookman (12-17 January 1134); conquered Narra (20-25 January 1134); and destroyed a Huntite-Devianiani defense fleet positioned around Agnes (1-7 February 1134). Bodi Aligh struggled to halt Melorkian offensives along the Kimanian Trade Run, and he was forced to pull units from Messalina, Chobania, Offshora, Kimanis Mooria, Newman Victoria, and Filorean to reinforce his positions in the Orion Cluster. The Supreme Commander managed to halt a Melorkian offensive against Christopher (February-March 1134) and destroyed the Melorkian arsenal of Shearer (1-9 April 1134). He then executed a surprise offensive against O'Toole and Nanking (April-May 1134), cutting off Melorkian units at Bookman and Narra.

On 3 June 1134, he reconquered Bookman and forced Cholodio to retreat towards Cyrus III. Cholodio then suffered a humiliating defeat in the Battle of Fatisnao (5-9 June 1134), losing the majority of his starfighter squadrons. When Bodi Aligh reconquered Narra (10-15 June 1134) and harried Roastafaria Minor (19-27 June 1134), Cholodio was forced to ask for a truce. The Treaty of Roastafaria Major (7 July 1134), resulted in Cholodio again acknowledging the authority of the Huntite Khanate. He agreed to pay Bodi Aligh a tribute, promised to protect Huntite outpost worlds against Ashlgothian and Kuevian offensives, and swore to never betray the Supreme Commander. With this peace concluded, Bodi Aligh immediately turned his attention to the Rudorites. He secured Abshire (10-17 July 1134); repelled Rudorite offensives against Riley (22-27 July 1134); and harried the Rudorite outposts of the Wild Marshes (July-August 1134). The Supreme Commander also laid waste to Malathron and Illya (1-14 September 1134), slaughtering Rudorite warriors, confiscating military equipment, and recovering a large number of Dasian, Huttile, and Samanthan captives who had been taken by the Rudorites. On 3 October, Bodi Aligh restored Huntite dominion over Lalarna, and on 10 October, he defeated the Rudorite Queen, Jurgunia, in the Battle of Jasolurn. On 17 October 1134, the Treaty of Millard was signed, by which Jurgunia agreed to acknowledge Huntite overlordship and assumed a obligation of defense. In turn, the Rudorites would be allowed to colonize Leo's Redoubt and Drea.

Major events transpired in the Brestord hordes, in the meantime. As has been mentioned, Roura's health had been in decline by the time Bodi Aligh fled to his court. The King of the Brestords realized that he was dying. In December 1133, he was diagnosed with Goula's malady, a infamous Brestord disease which had, according to their legends, almost exterminated their people when they still resided in Hoag's Object. It was said that this disease was a curse imposed by the God of their Livelihood, Oria, upon them, as a "punishment for the sins of our ancestors." Even after the elapse of nearly two thousand years since they had left Hoag's Object, the disease was considered to be beyond their medical understanding. Roura thus, prepared himself for death and for entry into the world of the Warriors. However, he had no children of his own. The King's younger brother, Mundzuk (who had died on 19 September 1116), had two sons, Bletha (born in 1104) and Attila (born in 1106). Roura had adopted them when he died, and according to the customs of the royal line, they were the heirs to the throne. The King had affirmed this in a succession decree, implemented on 17 October 1130, declaring that "the sons of our late brother shall, upon my death, share the rulership of this horde."

Both Bletha and Attila were ambitious, believing that the Brestords should seize their rightful place in the Caladarian Galaxy. They were tired of wandering in the Galactic Void, and wished to carve out a new dominion for themselves in civilized space. Each brother complemented the other. Bletha was known for his administrative abilities and political cunning, while Attila was known as a ferocious and determined military campaigner. Thus, Roura had declared that Bletha would control the Brestord civil service and government, as senior King, while Attila would control all military and diplomatic resources, as junior King. On 2 November 1134, King Roura entered the final stage of the disease, and was formally confined in the Chambers of the Dead, as was the Brestord custom. On 6 November, Bletha and Attila received the oath of allegiance from the Brestord hordes. On 9 November 1134, Roura died after a reign of forty-three years, and his nephews now became the co-Kings of the Brestords. The two brothers dispatched the formal message of their accession to the courts of the Homidinian, Huntite, Venasian, Crimeanian, and Kazanian Khanates, as well as the courts of Laurasia, Goldaria, Schaueria Prime, the Amelianian kingdoms, Donguaria, Merlita, the Kuevians, and Ashlgothia.

Bodi Aligh sent his congratulations to the new Brestord Kings on 11 November 1134. Afterwards, he suggested to them that a new treaty be negotiated, to satisfy the Brestord territorial aspirations. The Supreme Commander also sent a emissary to Homidinian Khan Tokugaistus, requesting that he make his own arrangements with the Brestords. Tokugaistus, who had long had to contend with Brestord raids in the eastern reaches of his dominions, agreed to a diplomatic congress. The Homidinian Khan himself was in a somewhat stronger position then the Huntite Khanate. Although the Homidinian Khanate had suffered severe damage as a result of the Great Barbarian Invasion of 1106-07, and had lost control of territories west of the Larkian Way to the neo-Kuevians, Rudorites, Jageronians, and Hortons, it had managed to retain dominance of the former Northern Khanate, as well as the rule of Theodore, Mackenzia, Edmundia, Coronadia, Scanlan, Greyson, Chalassia, Homidinia, Lacia, Englestrom, Markis Prime, Kledis Var, and the territories to the Rebeccan Galactic Trade Route. During the 1120s, Tokugaistus had managed to reach arrangements with the barbarian hordes west of the Larkian Way. Thus, Homidinian jurisdiction theoretically extended to Norah and the Galactic Frontier Route, on the outskirts of Amelianian Hengist. Tokugaistus, however, believed that if the Brestords were provided a territory of their own, they would not be inclined to launch any further raids against the Homidinian Khanate.

Since they would now border the Amelianians and the Kazanian Khanate, he came to believe that those regions would be of far more interest to them. In this, he was to be proven mistaken. Nevertheless, King Attila was dispatched by his brother on 24 November 1134, to conduct negotiations directly with the Huntite Supreme Commander and the Homidinian Khan. Attila arrived at Jasonia on 26 November, being greeted by Bodi Aligh and Wrangia Althia with lavish ceremony. Two days later, Tokugaistus arrived from Chalassia, and was also greeted with the necessary ceremonies. Three months of negotiations followed, as Bodi Aligh, Wrangia Althia, and Tokugaistus wrangled with Attila over the terms of settlement. Finally however, the Treaty of Jasonia was signed (4 February 1135), by which the Brestord Kingdom would be allowed to occupy Belkadan, Munist, Tiller, Arojmandi, and Desel, in the reaches of the north-western Outer Borderlands. The Brestords would be granted unlimited campaigning rights in the Outer Borderlands west of the Larkian Way, in the Kazanian Khanate, and in the Galactic Borderlands. In turn, Attila promised that the Brestords would not threaten the Homidinian or Huntite Khanates. He was not to keep this promise.

Attila returned to the Brestord Nomadic Camp on 7 February 1135, and three days later, the terms of the Treaty of Jasonia were formally ratified by senior King Bletha. On 14 February, Bletha ordered his military commanders and council subordinates to begin preparations for the journey of the hordes to the northern Outer Borderlands. On 21 February, the Brestord armadas went into hyperspace, eventually arriving at Belkadan on 24 February 1135. The journey was slowed because of the non-existence of hyperspace routes, and because of the sheer number of starships involved. When they arrived, the Homidinian commander of the region formally surrendered his garrisons to the Brestord hordes and withdrew his units from the allotted worlds. The Brestords had firmly established themselves in the Caladarian Galaxy by the end of March 1135. On 4 April 1135, Bodi Aligh signed the secret Pact of Gies with the Brestords, by which the Supreme Commander was allowed to maintain a Brestord mercenary force for his own use for "all time to come." The Supreme Commander, on his part, confirmed the Brestord rights to campaign in the Galactic Borderlands and the western Outer Borderlands. With the arrangements with the Brestords now set, the Supreme Commander turned his attention to the Kuevians. In May, he reinforced Shenandoah, Boydaria, Elijahana, Maurice, Majoria Schall, Melanie Major, Roastafaria Major, Hoohshikk, Vickis, Choir, and Uris with Huntite, Dasian, Brestord, Jageronian, Alexandrian, Robertian, and mercenary units. The Supreme Commander also began negotiations with Tokugaistus on the prospect of a joint military campaign against the Kuevians.

On 6 June 1135, the Huntite Khanate declared war against the Kuevian Kingdom. Bar'say was conquered (10-17 June 1135), followed by Temperance (21-27 June 1135) and Goodman (1-4 July 1135). Tokugaistus launched his own offensives against Ondi'ray, Par'nay, and the other northern Millian systems (July-August 1135), but these were blunted by Genseric. Genseric then destroyed a Huntite expeditionary fleet in the Battle of the Pax (27-30 August 1135) and recovered his position at Temperance (1-7 September 1135), before harrying Roastafaria. Bodi Aligh however, repelled Kuevian attacks into the Middle Territories, and he destroyed the Kuevian agricultural-industrial compound on Rosaline (10-17 September 1135). On 7 October 1135, after a series of indecisive skirmishes in the Rosemary Asteroids and at Nottingham, Fats, and Blooper, Genseric requested for a armistice. The Armistice of Boydaria was signed on 11 October 1135. Treaty negotiations then commenced. Bodi Aligh was determined to gain recognition of his claims to the Crimeanian Khanate and a assurance from the Kuevian King that he would not seize any further Huntite territory. Genseric, on his part, wanted acknowledgment of his rule and confirmation of his rights to campaign in the Venasian Khanate, the goal being to seize Hooper. Tokugaistus wished for the termination of Horton raids into his territory. After months of wrangling, the Treaty of Wekleddi was signed (27 December 1135), by which Bodi Aligh acknowledged the existence of the Kuevian Kingdom and confirmed Genseric's rights to plunder in the Venasian Khanate. In turn, Genseric acknowledged Bodi Aligh's rights to assert his position in the Crimeanian Khanate and agreed to halt any further operations into Huntite or Homidinian territory.

Bodi Aligh now began to draft plans for asserting himself in the Crimeanian Khanate, but found himself distracted by other concerns in the Barsar Regions. Queen Jurgunia, who was nurturing ambitions of carving a large barbarian dominion for the Rudorites in the Eastern Barsar Regions, had been secretly assembling military equipment and supplies at her stronghold on Leo's Redoubt, which had been granted to the Rudorites as a colony-world by the Supreme Commander. Jurgunia also maintained secret contacts with the Alexandrians, who had regained possession of Skye I, and were by then under the rule of King Gunther. Bodi Aligh, having been distracted by his campaigns against the Kuevians and by his negotiations with the Brestords, had been unable to pay attention to the situation in the southern Barsar Regions. As such, the Supreme Commander was sent into a wave of discontent and anger when on 17 January 1136, Jurgunia denied the terms of the Treaty of Millard and launched a series of coordinated offensives along the Kimanian Trade Run. Filorean was besieged and conquered (17-21 January 1136), followed by Millard itself (25-27 January 1136), and then Constipex (1-7 February 1136).

The Rudorites destroyed the Huntite relay outpost on Luther (18-21 February 1136), before conquering the stronghold of Emma (23-25 February 1136). Bodi Aligh hastily assembled formations at Kimanis Mooria, Newman Victoria, Maurya, Gabriella, Jasonia, Christopher, and the Orion Cluster, attempting to halt Rudorite offensives into the Huntite Regions. Jurgunia however, turned her attention to Duana, Dworak, and Jenny, besieging and conquering those fortresses (March-April 1136). Huntite, Dasian, and Huttile defense units stationed at Abshire, Strongstine, Brilley, and Wasgama were then overrun and destroyed in May 1136. Bodi Aligh however, managed to secure Newman Victoria (1-2 June 1136) and defeated a Rudorite fleet sent against Nikki Lowell (3-7 June 1136). Mcmannis was secured on 12 June 1136, thus driving a wedge through Jurgunia's forces. Millard, Constipex, and Filorean were recovered in bitter sieges (July-August 1136), although Jurgunia annihilated a Huntite starfighter squadron sent against Leo's Redoubt. Bodi Aligh, nevertheless, soon subdued the Rudorites of Duana (8 September 1136) and defeated Jurgunia's leading commander, Salathumd (1092-1137), in the Battle of Mello (10-12 September 1136).

Jurgunia was soon forced to come to terms, and by the Treaty of Leo's Redoubt (14 September 1136), again acknowledged Huntite overlordship. Bodi Aligh then repelled a raiding offensive by the Ashlgothians against Beverly Hereidu (September-October 1136). He also dispatched a fleet to Skye I, by means of a secret route provided by the Devianiani, overwhelming and sacking the Alexandrian capital world (1-2 November 1136). Gunther was forced to acknowledge Huntite dominance in the Treaty of Holmes (7 November 1136). On 11 November, the Jageronians of Iego erupted in revolt. They seized Meredita (12-15 November 1136) and devastated Meredith (17-25 November 1136), before conquering Leah (26 November 1136). Bodi Aligh however, defeated them in the Battle of Sukuman (29 November-3 December 1136) and pacified the Jageronian bases of the Wild Marshes (4-11 December 1136). By 14 December, Iego had been reconquered, and the Jageronians were tamed.

The Supreme Commander returned to Jasonia on 21 December 1136, having taken a slower journey to suppress uprisings on Samarkand, Lorna, Barnett, and Beharis. Even now, he was being hailed by his contemporaries as the "savior of the Huntite Khanate." Gibbeoneous, examining these events which have been described from the far-away perspective of more than six centuries, has stated that "this General, by virtue of his military talent, his vigorous disposition, and his extreme patriotism for the ideals of the Dasian Way and the Dasian Warrior, sought to preserve the Khanate from collapse. He was truly, the last of the Dasians." Wrangia Althia, in a imperial proclamation of 24 December 1136, which has been preserved in the Imperial Archives on Laurasia Prime, declared that "this noble and illustrious prince has maintained our position and sought to prevent the barbarians from overwhelming us. Our ancestors would be proud of his deeds." Bodi Aligh, Wrangia Althia, Khan Dost (who was approaching his majority), and Princess In'sara, along with the rest of the Dasian court and government, held a series of vigorous ceremonies and celebrations to mark not only his victories but also the New Year of 1137. New challenges however, would continue to face the Supreme Commander.

Accession of Honorius the Terrible; The Regency of his Mother Elena; Her Internal Oppressions Alienate the Laurasian People; Lathasold's Conspiracies; The Outbreak of the Second Great Goldarian War; Laurasian Victories under Callos; Treaty of Severia ends war with Laurasian gains; Poisoning and Death of Regent Elena (1133-1138)

Having described sufficiently the events in the Huntite Khanate, it is now necessary to turn our attention back to the Stellar Kingdom of Laurasia and to the affairs of the Core Khanates. What transpired with those states, as well as with the Amelianian Kingdoms, the Brestords, and the Dasians of the Huntite Khanate, will be explained in a manner so as to relate them all to one another. The focus will first be on the Stellar Kingdom of Laurasia. In the afternoon of 4 December 1133, after the death of King Arasces III had been announced by the Royal Government, Pope Peter convened a assembly of the Royal Council, along with the leading civil, ecclesiastical, and military officials, nobles, and members of the King's household. At this assembly, the will of Arasces III, which had been prepared on 29 November 1132, was formally announced to the public. Because Honorius II, the late King's son and the new monarch of Laurasia, was only three years old when his father died, a regency was required. In a controversial decision, the King had named his wife, Queen Consort Elena, as the regent for their son. Elena was to govern the Stellar Kingdom of Laurasia in consort with the Royal Council and the nobles until Honorius reached the age of majority.

When the will was formally announced in the assembly, many protested against its provisions. Prince Athanasius Yugorius of Ralina Vixius (1061-1146) stated that "the rule of the female gender over the Laurasian state has proven to have disastrous impact upon us in the past." He pointed to the example of Andrea Septimia (who had been deposed and assassinated three centuries earlier) and discussed about how the long civil war between her and Regent Heredotus had weakened Laurasia to the point that it had been exposed to the Dasians. Yugorius stated that he did not wish to see "another period of dominance over Laurasia by a foreign species." Admiral Claudius however, rose in support of the late King's will, and declared that the Council could keep a eye on the Regent. The Pope concurred, and by a majority vote, Elena was appointed Regent of Laurasia. Thus, for the first four years of the reign of Honorius II, Laurasia was governed by Queen Dowager Elena in the name of her son.

Elena, shortly after she became Regent, confirmed the decisions of the Council and declared that she would appoint a select group of counselors to assist her in the governance of the state. Admiral Claudius, Pope Peter, Count Olybrius Wadranius (1069-1136), and Count Theodosius Callos, alongside fifteen other distinguished gentlemen, were formally appointed State Counselors of the Regency on 11 December 1133, charged with supervising the Royal Council, executing the Regent's orders, and providing advice to her on the affairs of the government. The Council itself, however, was granted the authority to review the Regent's laws before they were implemented. It was understood by all however, that once Honorius reached his majority, he would assume the reins of the autocratic authority which was formally invested in the Royal Laurasian Crown. All nobles swore to never attempt to impose any limits on the monarch's authority. After this had transpired, a dominant influence emerged among the members of the Regency Consistory, as the body of regency counselors wsa formally designated. Admiral Claudius, who was Prince of Caladaria and remained the Supreme Commander of the Laurasian Military Command, became one of the Regent's chief advisers. The other was Sir Theodosius Callos, who was a young and ambitious government official who desired more wealth and honors for himself.

Callos however, was possessed of certain administrative and financial abilities. Gradually, the Regent came more and more under Callos' influence, and she now began to make plans to assert herself as the supreme regent of Laurasia, with no opposition to her authority from the Council or the nobility. On 7 January 1134, the Regent, with the support of Callos and the Guardians of the Royal Household, declared that the Council possessed "no authority over the actions of my person," and stated that because she governed in the name of her son, the autocratic authority invested in him as sovereign was thus hers until he reached the age of majority. Five days later, Grand Prince Valens (1085-1134), who was one of the younger brothers of the deceased King, was arrested on charges of treason and conspiracy. He was imprisoned in the Nobles Penitentiary of Augis V. On 16 January 1134, the Prince was convicted by a sentence of the Court of the Star Chamber, the judicial body charged with cases and matters relating to the royal family and members of the nobility. He was sentenced to death by torture. The death of the Prince aroused discontent, and protests on Laurasia Prime, Caladaria, Darcia, Scout, Clackimaris, Rebecca, and Katherine criticized the Regent's measures. These were crushed by the use of armed riot troopers.

The popularity of the Regent, which had been relatively high when she first assumed office, now declined dramatically. The Laurasians came to despise the Regent, and various nobles, including Prince Yugorius, spread secret manifestos stating on how "the Laurasian state was to be ruined again by a woman, just as it has been in the past. Octavia Seslasis and Andrea Septimia both brought destruction to our honor and our strength. We should not let this tyranny continue, lest the Kingdom be conquered by one of the barbarian hordes presently within the Galaxy's bounds." Elena, who was alarmed by these reports, ordered the Royal Intelligence Agency and the Bureau of Security to seek out, investigate, arrest, and punish any opponents of the state or dissidents against the Regent and her government. During the early months of 1134, Laurasia Prime and many of the kingdom's other worlds experienced a series of arrests, trials, imprisonments, and exiles, as the government sought to root out the opponents of the Regent. The court was engrossed in a atmosphere of fear and terror. Admiral Claudius, who was disgusted by the Regent's actions, and whose influence had been eclipsed by that of Callos, now attempted to reason with the Regent.

In a series of personal audiences with Queen Consort Elena, held during February 1134, he implored her to "reconsider her actions and to see that she maintains the honor of the throne, the welfare of the people, and the security of the state." The Regent, taking no note of how the Admiral had served Laurasia and had saved the Kingdom from destruction in the Great Goldarian War, became convinced that he too was engaged in plots against her. As such, on 21 March 1134, she ordered for the arrest of the Admiral. The Admiral was interrogated and then convicted five days later. He was deprived of all his honors, military orders, and properties, branded as a enemy of the state, and imprisoned in the Secret Yards of Ipsus V, where he died on 7 February 1135. Thus the "Savior of Laurasia" suffered a ignominious end. Callos, who was now the dominant minister of the government, received a shower of honors and titles from the Regent, who had now become his mistress. The Regent was thus fully engrossed in such oppressive measures to maintain her position.

The domestic turbulence occurring in the Laurasian court and government inflamed dissent in Goldaria, Schaueria Prime, and Murphy, who despised Laurasian overlordship and dominance. King Lathasold of Goldaria, who believed that now was the time to finally destroy the Laurasian position in the Central Core, embarked upon a series of measures to expand, strengthen, and consolidate his military forces. Secret shipyards at Yularen, Daala, Mommica, Muppet, Carina, and the Sort Drift produced a large number of destroyers, dreadnoughts, cruisers, and other warships. Lathasold dispatched a secret emissary to the court of the Grand Duke of Schaueria Prime, Tiperis Dondonna, the son of the deceased Grand Duchess Bastilla, in May 1134. The Goldarian King proposed a renewal of the earlier military alliance, directed against Laurasia, to recover lost territories and "contain Laurasian power." The secret Treaty of Decapolia Major, signed on 21 May 1134, resulted in Schaueria Prime and Goldaria restoring their earlier alliance against Laurasia. A invitation was sent to the Venasian Khanate to join this new alliance against the Stellar Kingdom of Laurasia. The Venasian Khan Aq Kebek signed the secret Pact of Monderon with Goldaria on 2 June 1134. The Khan's position was weak however, because of Kuevian raids and constant rebellions in the Venasian Cluster against his government.

On 11 June, he was deposed from the Venasian throne by the Dasian nobleman Abdur Rahman. Abdur Rahman, who wished to focus his attention on the internal situation in the Venasian Khanate, revoked the Pact of Monderon on 17 June and declared that the Venasian Khanate would remain neutral in any new conflict. Despite this setback, Lathasold decided to proceed with his plans against Laurasia. He secretly dispatched financial aid to rebel organizations on Arias, Rebecca, Briannia, Meaganian, Ipsus V, Colsonia, Hordania, and Dorothy which were opposed to the Laurasians. Lathasold also established a secret military commission with the court of Schaueria Prime. Then, in August 1134, just after the Regent had authorized another wave of arrests and imprisonments, the Goldarian King sent a diplomatic note to the court of Laurasia Prime, "humbly requesting" his overlords to halt their oppression and to treat their people with greater leniency. This was merely a cover for his ambitions.

The Regent, offended by his "arrogance," refused to respond to his note. Afterwards, Lathasold declared that he could not keep himself in a state of vassalage to a state governed by "tyrants." On 19 September 1134, he formally rejected the terms of the Treaty of Coen and declared himself independent from Laurasian overlordship. Elena was enraged by this, and in October, ordered for a mobilization of the Laurasian armed forces. On 5 November, the King of Goldaria signed the Treaty of Polonia with Khan Sahib Giray of the Crimeanian Khanate, by which they promised to cooperate in all military campaigns against Laurasia. The terms of the Treaty of Decapolia Major were announced in public two weeks later. Then on 11 December 1134, Goldaria, Schaueria Prime, and the Crimeanian Khanate formally declared war against the Stellar Kingdom of Laurasia.

Renewed battlefronts opened in the Central Core, Core Worlds, and in the Outer Core. A Goldarian force under the command of Prince-Admiral Lagarold Valnich launched a series of offensives against Laurasian forces and positions at Marshia, Bainsborough, Teth, Goss Beacon, and the systems of the Lower Galactic Center. Although Marshia was besieged and conquered by the Goldarians (14-17 December 1134), the offensive against Teth was repelled by Laurasian units (18-21 December 1134). Evelyn and Ruthania were then reinforced by the Regent, who dispatched a force to harry the Goldarian fleets in the Lower Galactic Center. A series of indecisive skirmishes at Hannah, Teth, Goss Beacon, Taxiles the Great, and Williams (December 1134-January 1135), resulted in severe losses for both the Goldarians and the Laurasians. Farther to the East, the Schauerian Grand Duke launched a series of offensives against Laurasian strongholds. Hordania was conquered (20-24 December 1134); followed by Dorothy (27 December 1134); and Compost V (1 January 1135). The Laurasians however, scattered a Schauerian battlefleet sent against Ipsus V (4-9 January 1135). Khan Sahib Giray, alarmed at this, dispatched a Crimeanian force to the assistance of Schaueria Prime, which defeated the Laurasians in the Battle of Colsonia (10-12 January 1135), at the same time that the Goldarians finally managed to secure Goss Beacon.

King Lathasold then stormed Williams (14-17 January 1135), but failed to secure Pasquarillo and Palimisiano (20-24 January 1135). The Regent then dispatched the younger brother of Theodosius Callos, Lord Demetrius Callos, against the Goldarians. Lord Callos gained a victory in the Battle of Pauli (25-27 January 1135) and crushed a Goldarian battlefleet in the Fields of Ursa (1-2 February 1135). The Laurasians also halted Schauerian offensives against Hammenor and Meaganian, while maintaining their position along the Rebeccan Galactic Trade Route. During February 1135, Lord Callos drove Goldarian units out of the Melarnarian districts and reconquered the systems of the Upper Galactic Center, while a stalemate ensued in the Schauerian systems. On 4 March 1135, however, a major event took place in the Kazanian Khanate. Canghali, who had never been popular with his subjects, was assassinated by a cadre of officers led by the general Urus. Urus, who had no desire himself for the Kazanian throne, instead invited Safa Giray to reclaim his throne. Safa Giray, who had been in exile at his brother's court, was granted permission by the Khan to return to the Kazanian Khanate. By use of a secret hyperspace route, Safa Giray managed to bypass Laurasian forces along the Rebeccan Galactic Trade Route, as well as the Laurasian strongholds of eastern Kazania. He reached Kazan on 6 March 1135 and was proclaimed Khan for the second time two days later.

On 10 March 1135, Safa Giray declared war against the Stellar Kingdom of Laurasia and sent his forces against the Laurasian strongholds in the Kazanian Khanate. Leopoldia was conquered (11-15 March 1135), followed by Big Twinny (16-21 March 1135). The Laurasians however, fortified Wendy (22-25 March 1135) and halted a Kazanian offensive against Coen (26-30 March 1135). Laurasian offensives against Kazan, Cibourney, Sassanay, and the worlds of the Western Route, during the early weeks of April 1135, proved failures however. A stalemate soon ensued in the Kazanian territories, as the Laurasians prevented Safa Giray from advancing south-east to link up with the Schauerian and Crimeanian forces. In the Central Core, a series of new campaigns commenced. Lord Callos gained a major victory in the Battle of Stephanie Millia (1-9 April 1135) and destroyed the Goldarian base on Rythmia (11-23 April 1135). His offensive against Marshia and the fortresses of the Sail, however, proved to be a failure (25 April-6 May 1135). A new Goldarian force, under the command of Admiral Jerzia of Mommica, launched a surprise offensive against Williams (7-10 May 1135), overwhelming and conquering that Laurasian stronghold. Admiral Jerzia then subdued Conservan (11-14 May 1135), harried Reoyania (15-16 May 1135), and cut off supply lines to Clancia (20-21 May 1135). On 26 May, however, he was defeated in the Battle of Milla, and on 5 June, the Laurasians reconquered Conservan.

From 6 to 11 June, skirmishes in the Lower Galactic Center and at Stenbeck, Constancia, and Hosima drained the energies of both sides. Safa Giray's offensive against Deanna (June-July 1135) and the Laurasian strongholds of the upper Core Worlds was blunted by units stationed at Katherine, Wendy, Elizabeth, Durglais, and Rebecca. The Laurasians then reconquered Colsonia (4-13 July 1135) and secured Selena (15-21 July 1135), before defeating a combined Crimeanian-Schauerian battlefleet in the Battle of Debarge (25-29 July 1135). In August 1135, the Goldarians harried Teth, but were unable to send any units against that Laurasian stronghold. On 11 August, the Laurasians reconquered Leopoldia, but were unable to breach the defenses of Keanna, Ki, and Wilma. Five days later, Sahib Giray launched a offensive against Hammenor, but this was blunted. On 18 August, the Laurasians occupied Murphy, forcing its new Grand Prince, Joso, to sign a military access pact with the Regent. On 22 August, Horacia was attacked and seized, cutting off the Crimeanian military bases on Saray, Senna, and Momma. By the end of August, however, a stalemate had ensued, as Laurasian offensives against Levinston, Donald, and Zennethia were blunted. On 4 September, the Laurasians conquered the Decapolian star systems. Three days later, Schaueria Prime itself was besieged.

The Laurasians now suffered a setback, as Sahib Giray himself took command of the Crimeanian military forces. Tiperis Dondonna sent a plea of assistance to the Crimeanian Khan on 10 September. The Khan mustered his forces, and bypassing the Laurasian units in the Murphian regions, he sped across to Schaueria Prime. On 12 September, in a pitched battle in the outskirts of the Schaueria Prime system, the Khan managed to inflict a severe defeat upon the Laurasian armada. The Laurasians were forced to retreat north, and lost many of their gains. Horacia was reconquered by the Crimeanian Khanate (13-17 September 1135), while the Schauerians reconquered the Decapolian systems (20-25 September 1135). The Goldarians launched a renewed series of offensives, driving Laurasian advance positions from Mommica, the Sort Drift, Seejay Prime, and Constancia (27 September-4 October 1135). During October, Hordania, Dorothy, Greenia, Compost V, and Hammenor were besieged and conquered by the Schauerians, while the Crimeanians harried Ipsus V, Briannia, Nystadia, Murphy, Duros, and Mumbraine.

The Laurasians then launched a offensive from Archleuta but were defeated in the Battle of Evertly (1-4 November 1135). On 10 November, Ipsus V was besieged, eventually falling to the coalition on 24 November. By the middle of December, the Laurasians had lost Williams, Goss Beacon, and Conservan, while Clancia was threatened. The Regent, believing that a re-occurrence of the events of the earlier war were occurring, was disturbed. On 25 December, shortly after the Laurasians were defeated in the Battle of Chandlier, the Regent appointed her lover as Supreme Commander of the Laurasian military effort. Callos became Grand Admiral of Laurasia and was promoted to Prince of Darcia. Although he had earlier gained notoriety and was despised by many of the nobles, the newly-created Prince now proved that he was possessed of true ability. He vigorously reorganized the war effort, sending new orders to the front, reorganizing the command staff, and revising the command strategies. As a result of his efforts, the Laurasian performance improved.

On 2 January 1136, the Laurasians defeated the Goldarians in the Battle of Dramis, securing the other Clancian strongholds. Conservan was regained on 4 January. On 7 January, a offensive by Sahib Giray against Tommy was blunted in the Battle of Gary. By 11 January, Laurasian forces had secured Big Twinny and ended Kazanian offensives against Deanna and the Rebeccan Galactic Trade Route. From 15 to 21 January, the Laurasians reconquered Williams, Goss Beacon, and the upper Galactic Center. On 24 January, Ipsus V was recovered. In February, the Laurasians reconquered Hordania, Dorothy, and Hammenor, but only after a series of fierce struggles. Then on 5 March 1136, a Crimeanian-Goldarian force was annihilated in the Battle of Yularen, and that major Goldarian world was secured by the Laurasians. Daala fell on 11 March 1136. Schaueria Prime was again besieged from 17 March 1136, finally falling to the Laurasians on 30 April 1136. Grand Duke Tiperis was forced to flee to the Crimeanian Khanate. By the end of March, the Decapolian systems, Horacia, and Marshia had all been secured.

The Laurasian offensive against Carina failed however (May 1136), while on 2 June, the Crimeanian Khan destroyed a fleet sent against Zutagia. Indecisive skirmishes took place in the southern Central Core and southeastern Core Worlds from June to September 1136. Then, on 23 September, the Laurasians launched a surprise offensive against Goldaria. King Lathasold was forced to flee his capital, which fell on 28 September. With Goldaria secured, the Laurasians could advance further. Seejay Prime was seized on 4 October 1136, followed by Mommica (5-7 October 1136); the Sort Drift (10-12 October 1136); Stenbeck (15 October 1136); and the Lower Galactic Center (17-28 October 1136). The Laurasians conquered Donald (29 October 1136) and defeated the Crimeanians in the Battle of Denver (1-9 November 1136). On 12 November, Carina was subdued, and by 17 November, all Goldarian territories had been occupied. On 24 November, the Laurasians conquered Galicia Major, driving Crimeanian units south towards Wronzaz, Polonia Major, and Masar.

Although Sahib Giray managed to halt a Laurasian offensive against Sanegeta (1-5 December 1136), he suffered a severe defeat in the Battle of Pressburg (10 December 1136). On 17 December, the Laurasians seized George. By the end of December, Crimean IV itself was under threat. Then, on 2 January 1137, the Laurasians conquered Cibourney, Sassanay, and Vindictoria, inflicting severe damage on the Kazanian Khanate. Safa Giray was now falling into despair himself. On 6 January, when the Laurasians seized Ott, the Khan of Crimeania was forced to sue for peace. Lathasold and Tiperis, in exile at the Crimeanian court, requested negotiations on 7 January, followed by Safa Giray on 10 January. Regent Elena, who now found herself to be the most powerful ruler in the Core Regions, approved their requests on 10 January, imposing the Armistice of Levinston. On 21 February 1137, the Treaty of Severia was signed on Severia, a Murphian resort world. By the terms of this treaty, the Stellar Kingdom of Laurasia acquired Carina, Seejay Prime, Constancia, Stenbeck, Muppet, the Sort Drift, Mommica, and the worlds of the Lower Galactic Center in the Central Core, alongside the Decapolian systems, Mumbraine, Saray, and Senna in the Core Worlds and Outer Core.

The Crimeanian Khanate, Goldaria, Schaueria Prime, Murphy, and the Kazanian Khanate all acknowledged King Honorius as their overlord (represented by his mother) and agreed to pay a considerable indemnity as compensation for the Laurasian effort. They also promised to limit their armed forces. In return, the Regent "graciously returned" George, the Donguarian strongholds, and Galicia to the Crimeanian Khanate. Laurasia, having thus fully reasserted her ancient position of predominance in the Core Regions, was once again a major galactic power. The remainder of the twelfth century, however, would see that position weakened and that predominance erased. In the meantime however, a peace managed to prevail. For the last year of her regency, Elena governed over Laurasia in relative tranquility, when compared to what had transpired earlier. She rewarded Callos by creating him Prince of Ipsus V and granting him extensive properties on Ipsus V, Capital, Teth, Meaganian, and Caladaria. Nevertheless, there were those at the court who still held bitter memories of what the Regent had conducted earlier, and who wished to see her dead. One of these was Prince Josephus Kallay, who was a wealthy nobleman of Mercedes. Kallay planted agents in the household of the Regent, who managed to breach whatever security measures she had established. On 3 April 1138, the Regent was poisoned in her personal quarters by one of those agents, who had taken a position as one of her servitors. The poison was made from Denverianian ryll, one of the strongest narcotics in the Caladarian Galaxy. Despite her doctors' efforts, the Regent died in the Royal Hospital of the Celestial Palace (5 April 1138), at the age of thirty.

Bodi Aligh's war with Gunther of Alexandria; End of the Regency of Wrangia Althia; Marriage of Dost; Struggle between the Brestords and the Amelianians in the Galactic Borderlands; War with Jurgunia and Theodoric I; Genseric launches further campaigns in Middle Territories; Fall of Shenandoah; Defeat, Capture, and Execution of Jurgunia; End of the War with Ashlgothia; First Invasion of Homidinian Khanate by Brestords; Peace with Kuevia; Jarjanican Wars with Huntite Khanate in the Barsar Regions; Second Invasion of Homidinian Khanate, resulting in Brestord territorial gains; Death of Bletha; Attila becomes sole King of Brestordia (1137-1145)

We can now turn our attention to what has transpired with Bodi Aligh, who continued his vigorous campaigns in the Huntite Khanate. Information will also be provided as to the doings of Attila and Bletha. In February 1137, Wrangia Althia, who was making preparations for the termination of her regency and the assumption of official governing duties by her son, Khan Dost, arranged for his marriage with Princess Khulan, who was the daughter of Khan Tokugaistus by his wife Borte. She charged the Supreme Commander with traveling into the Homidinian Khanate and with escorting the future Khaness back into Huntite territory, to take her to the planned wedding ceremonies on Jasonia. Bodi Aligh set off from Jasonia on 4 March 1137, with a considerable escort squadron. He soon encountered further troubles. As the Supreme Commander reached the Rebeccan Galactic Trade Route, news came of a revolt by the Alexandrians of Skye I, who had decided to overthrow the terms of the Treaty of Holmes. Gunther destroyed the Huntite embassy on Skye I (5 March 1137); seized Hamacaki Barka (6-10 March 1137); and devastated Sharon Alfonsi (11-23 March 1137). He then expelled the Huntite garrisons of the Durant Cluster (March-April 1137), and, with the permission of the Devianiani, traversed across their territory to harry the Huntite strongholds along the Denveranian Trunk Line, sacking Bemanu (1-9 May 1137) and seizing Clementine (10-14 May 1137), before threatening Beverly Hereidu and Vali.

Bodi Aligh now repelled a Alexandrian offensive against Abshire (15-21 May 1137) and destroyed a Alexandrian holdout on Churchill (25-29 May 1137), before pacifying Julie (1-3 June 1137) and recovering the Huntite position in the Durant Cluster (5-17 June 1137). He then lured the main Alexandrian armada into a trap in the system of Dasie (20-23 June 1137), employing Brestord mercenaries. The Brestords annihilated most of the Alexandrian force. Bodi Aligh subsequently recovered Sharon Alfonsi (1-3 July 1137) and harried Lesia (4-6 July 1137), destroying many Devianiani military outposts, strongholds, and supply bases. Gunther and the Council of the Devianiani Confederacy were forced to sue for peace on 11 July. By the Treaty of Larkin (15 July 1137), negotiated with the assistance of Ashlgothian diplomats, the Devianiani and Alexandrians again acknowledged Huntite overlordship and agreed to defend the Huntite Khanate's possessions in the Barsar Regions from incursions by pirates operating from Onassis, Aristole, and John. With this agreement concluded, Bodi Aligh was able to complete his earlier duty. He now traveled to Chalassia and retrieved the Princess (20 July 1137). Five days later, Dost and Khulan were married on Jasonia. At that ceremony, the Khan was formally declared of age to govern, and Wrangia Althia resigned as Guardian and Regent. Those positions were thus formally abolished for the first time since 1095. Nevertheless, both Bodi Aligh and Wrangia Althia continued to hold substantial influence over the Khan, and Bodi Aligh remained Supreme Commander. In fact, on 27 July 1137, the Khan issued a decree, by which he confirmed all of the powers and privileges granted to the Supreme Commander by his mother. On 31 July, he appointed his mother as the Counselor of the Khan's Household and granted her precedence over all women except his wife.

For the rest of the year, Bodi Aligh focused his efforts on maintaining tranquility in the Khan's court, reorganizing the military forces, and solidifying the arrangements with the Alexandrians and Devianiani. In the meantime, Kings Attila and Bletha of the Brestords had instigated their military campaigns in the Galactic Borderlands. It should be remembered that since 1133, the most powerful monarch in the Galactic Borderlands was King Penda of Marcia. Penda, through his alliances with Cyneglis of Hengist-Cordania, Eadbald of Hengist, and Oswald of Nordania, wielded extensive political and military influence throughout the region. The Marcian military was the largest of the Amelianian kingdoms, and Marcia was interested in the affairs of the Caladarian Galaxy at large. Nevertheless, for three years, the Galactic Borderlands remained at peace. During 1135 and 1136, the co-Kings of the Brestords focused their efforts on settling all of the Brestord bands in various star systems, consolidating a stable economic base, and extending more formal diplomatic relations to their neighboring states. To assess the strength of their future targets, the Brestord Kings dispatched emissaries and spies into the territories of the Kazanian Khanate, Hengist, Cordania, Marcia, and even Laurasia. Finally, in May 1137, the Brestord Kings instigated war.

In that month, Attila, acting on the commands of his brother, sent a diplomatic demand to King Cyneglis on Verdorium (Imegina), requesting that he agree to the concession of Norah, Satie, Jeans, and Jill, along the Galactic Frontier Route, to the authority of the Kingdom of the Brestords. Although Norah was ruled by a Kuevian warband (separate from the kingdom of Genseric in the Inner Territories), it had a close military and economic alignment with Hengist. Cyneglis, predictably, rejected the demand and prepared his forces. Enraged, Bletha ordered his brother to launch a series of offensives. The Brestords declared war against the Kingdom of Hengist on 2 June 1137. They quickly overran Satie (4-7 June 1137); Norah (10-11 June 1137); and Jill (14-18 June 1137), before subduing Dali (20-27 June 1137) and conquering Roxuli (1-5 July 1137). Annette, Chastain, and Hambourne were threatened by the Brestords from July to September 1137. Cyneglis, although he managed to halt a offensive in the Tof Borderlands (1-15 August 1137), lost these strongholds mentioned.

A score of Donnian, Billian, and Latrician colony worlds to the east of the Muggal Cluster were harried by Brestord bands, inflicting severe damage on Hengistan positions. Finally, on 18 September 1137, the Muggal Cluster itself was breached, and Brestord hordes sacked Kumong, Ung, and Karlong. Cyneglis now sent a appeal for aid to his ally, King Penda of Marcia. Penda declared war against the Brestord Kingdom (22 September 1137) and dispatched a force by juncture of the Rogerian Cluster to the assistance of his ally. The Marcians destroyed a Brestord force sent against Hypasia Major (25-31 September 1137) but was unable to prevent the conquest of Trash Dakai (1-9 October 1137) or the devastation of Billy (10-17 October 1137). Brestord hordes penetrated as far as Lavella and the worlds of the lower Galactic Barrier. Attila then besieged Imegina from 2 November 1137. The world resisted for over two months, and only fell on 15 January 1138.

Subsequently, a series of major offensives were launched by the Brestords into Kalbacha and across the Hypasian systems. Song Dhu was overwhelmed and sacked (16-21 January 1138), although Attila's offensive against the Cordanian shipyards of Van Klep (20-25 January 1138) was blunted by Penda. The Brestords then conquered Valeris V (26-29 January 1138) and besieged Van Dong, which eventually fell to them on 16 February 1138. Cyneglis suffered a major defeat in the Battle of Sharna (21-25 February 1138), being forced to pull his units back from Cassolar, Bach Dang, and the Hypasian Outskirts. Attila then subdued Huerta Mongol (1-5 March 1138) and conquered the Cordanian outposts of the Upper Hypasian Region (March-April 1138). By the end of April 1138, the Brestords had conquered virtually all of the Hypasian systems. Attila now began a major offensive into the Kalbachan regions. His armadas seized Kalbacha (1-7 May 1138) and subdued Linda (21-27 May 1138), but then failed in a attempt to breach the defenses of the Rogerian Cluster. The Brestords had overextended their supply lines, and Penda was now able to launch a series of coordinated counteroffensives. He destroyed a Brestord battlefleet dispatched against Kathy (1-9 June 1138); captured the Brestord military base established on Sabinia (10-17 June 1138); and pacified Devore (22-25 June 1138).

Attila then attempted to launch a surprise offensive against Angelica, but this was blunted by the forces of Penda in the Battle of the Nuro Triangle (26-29 June 1138). Penda then reconquered Hypasia Major (1-7 July 1138) and disrupted the Brestord lines to the Kalbachan systems (July-August 1138). On 2 September, however, Attila scored his own victory in the Battle of Mulah. Over the remainder of the year, he managed to secure the Brestord position in the Hypasian systems, although he could not advance his forces any further into the Galactic Borderlands. Penda too, was unable to dislodge the Brestord hordes from their positions. Thus, in January 1139, the Amelianian King of Marcia requested peace negotiations with the King of the Brestords. A diplomatic congress was opened on Rasdalla (22 January 1139). After nearly two months of wrangling and ardous negotiations, the Treaty of Rasdalla was signed (24 March 1139). By the terms of this treaty, the Kingdom of the Brestords acquired Norah, the Cosite worlds, and the eastern regions of the Tof Borderlands, encompassing the Eulipe, Ba'dsai, and Entramian Sectors. In turn, upon the payment of a extensive tribute, Attila and Bletha agreed to withdraw their forces from the Muggal Cluster and the Hypasian systems.

Following the end of their campaigns, Attila and Bletha focused their efforts on restoring their military structures, recovering from their casualties, and revising their military strategies. As a result, the Brestord Kingdom did not launch any further military campaigns for the remainder of 1139, with the exception of raids and border skirmishes with the Kazanian Khanate. During those same years, Bodi Aligh had to deal with the Ashlgothians, the Kuevians, and the Jarjanics. In January 1138, King Theodoric held a council of his military commanders on Sharman, which had been converted by the Ashlgothians into a military fortress world. Here, the Ashlgothian King formulated plans for a series of military campaigns against the Huntites in the Barsar Regions. On 3 February, he dispatched a diplomatic ultimatum to the court of Khan Dost on Jasonia, demanding that that the Huntite Khanate restore to the Ashlgothian Kingdom the strongholds of Bookman and Beverly Hereidu. He also demanded that the Khan grant Ashlgothia military access privileges through Huntite territories in the Barsar Regions. Bodi Aligh, who although he was unaware of the Ashlgothian plans for war, was nevertheless alarmed, rejected the demands and mobilized his units. Theodoric thus decided to strike without warning.

On 8 February 1138, the Kingdom of Ashlgothia declared war against the Huntite Khanate and launched its forces along the Kimanian Trade Run and Denveranian Trunk Line. Beverly Hereidu was conquered (8-11 February 1138), followed by Bookman (12-17 February 1138) and Narra (20 February-3 March 1138). Bodi Aligh's commander of the military forces in the Eastern Barsar Regions, Dzrugvich (a Brestord), managed to end a Ashlgothian offensive against Breha (4-19 March 1138), capturing a large number of Ashlgothian battleships and dreadnoughts. Despite this setback, Theodoric continued his offensives, and he soon destroyed the Huntite bases on Bralton, Braysen, and the System of the Eclipsed Worlds (March-April 1138). Under the influence of Theodoric, the Devianiani denounced Huntite overlordship on 3 May 1138. The Devianiani Great Council dispatched a force under the command of their General Ziser to destroy the Huntite enclaves in their territory. Sharon Alfosni was overrun (4-5 May 1138), followed by Hamacaki Barka (6-10 May 1138) and the Durant Cluster (11-14 May 1138). A offensive against the Huntite consulate on Skye I failed however (15-19 May 1138). At the same time, Theodoric managed to conquer Armenia Major (12-21 May 1138), but was then prevented by Dzrugvich from advancing to Kimanis Mooria (22-29 May 1138). In June 1138, Dzrugvich fortified Messalina, Chobania, and Samantha, but was unable to save Christopher, which fell on 23 June. Theodoric now unleashed a campaign of plunder, enslavement, and rapine, raiding systems ranging from Crasier, with a population of 15,000 as of 1138, to Orion IV, with a population of 3 billion.

Bodi Aligh now dispatched a collection of Huntite, Brestord, and Dasian reinforcements to the General of the Barsar Regions, as the Supreme Commander himself was occupied with dealing with civil tensions and disobedience on Leah, Lorna, Meredita, Walters, and Garnett. Dzrugvich, with these forces, managed to end a Ashlgothian offensive against Kimania (1-7 August 1138) and reinforced Kimanis Mooria (10-14 August 1138), before successfully driving away Ashlgothian forces that besieged Breha (15-21 August 1138). Theodoric however, now focused his attention on the Denveranian Trunk Line. The strongholds of Plath, Skold, and Jarman, which had been maintained by the Huntite Khanate as military bases on the border with the Devianiani Confederacy, were conquered in September 1138. The Devianiani themselves launched a major offensive against Riley (1-8 September 1138), which was nevertheless defeated. On 11 September, Bodi Aligh finally managed to crush the insurgency movements in the Robertian Regions, and two days later, he departed from Jasonia with a considerable force of Brestords, Huntites, Robertians, Dasians, and Amelianian mercenaries, among other units. Linking up with Dzrugvich at Kimanis Mooria on 15 September, he then cleared Ashlgothian raiding armadas from Drea, Leo's Redoubt, and Preena (16-21 September 1138).

On 22 September, the Orion Cluster was secured, and Ashlgothian units were driven from their raiding stations positioned against Orion IV, Dorothea, Lange, and Leseur. Five days later, Bodi Aligh obtained a major victory in the Battle of Ryua II, and on 1 October, Narra was reconquered by the Supreme Commander. Bodi Aligh's offensive against Bookman and Christopher failed however (2-14 October 1138), although he soon after scored another victory in the Battle of Alverester (15-17 October 1138). On 22 October, Theodoric, attempting to cut off the Huntite units in the Barsar Regions, executed a surprise offensive against Roastafaria and Eutagia. He overran Roastafaria Major (22-24 October 1138) and penetrated as far as the Melanie Trade Line, but was then defeated by Bodi Aligh's lieutenant consul of the Salarian Melorkians, Cholveich, in the Battle of Sidsey (27 October 1138). By 2 November, the Ashlgothians had been driven back across the Kimanian Trade Run. A stalemate soon ensued, as Ashlgothian offensives against Chobania, Offshora, and Samantha failed (November-December 1138), while the Dasians were unable to seize Bookman. On 16 December, Bodi Aligh proposed an armistice. Five days later, by the Truce of Ganorium, it was agreed that both sides would retain their territories as they held them until campaigns were to resume, from 12 April of the following year.

Bodi Aligh now focused his efforts on strengthening the remaining strongholds in the Eastern Barsar Regions and on preparing his forces for a future confrontation. The Supreme Commander was now determined to punish the Devianiani and the Alexandrians of Skye I for assisting the Ashlgothians in their campaigns against the Huntite Khanate. Theodoric, on his part, wished to launch a series of offensives against Messalina, Chobania, Samantha, and Kimania, and also to provoke the Rudorites into rebelling against the Huntite Khanate. On 3 March 1139, the King of Ashlgothia dispatched a secret emissary to the court of Queen Jurgunia, proposing a military alliance against the Huntite Khanate. Theodoric promised Jurgunia that her kingdom would control Reading, Kimanis Mooria, Abshire, Drea, Duana, and Chobania, while the Ashlgothians would control Kimania, Samantha, Messalina, Offshora, Strongstine, Riley, and the upper Kimanian Trade Run. Jurgunia expressed her interest in this agreement, and on 7 March, she sent a secret message to King Theodoric over the Holonet, agreeing to cooperate in all military offensives against the Huntite Khanate. Bodi Aligh and his spies were unaware of these events, although the Supreme Commander remained suspicious of the Rudorite Queen's motives. On 12 April 1139, when the Truce expired, King Theodoric suddenly launched a series of coordinated military campaigns and offensives throughout the Huntite territories in the southern Barsar Regions.

He subdued Hutsia, the Huttile homeworld (12-14 April 1139); destroyed the Huntite shipyards of Taning (15-19 April 1139); and harried the Huntite supply lines to Millard, Filorean, and Narra (20-27 April 1139). On 4 May, the Ashlgothians crushed a Huntite fleet of battleships and dreadnoughts in the Battle of Kimanis Mooria, exposing Kimania itself to an offensive. Bodi Aligh now commanded his general Dzrugvich to assemble units at Messalina, Samantha, Kristen, and Reading to launch a surprise offensive against Bookman and Beverly Hereidu. Theodoric was aware of these plans, however, thanks to the intelligence efforts of Jurgunia's agents, and on 7 May, he halted the forces of Dzrugvich at the Kipp Nebula, located about thirty light-years south of Beverly Hereidu. In the Battle of the Kipp Nebula, the Ashgoths inflicted a major defeat on the Dasians. Dzrugvich himself was killed in the heat of the battle, and most of the Dasian fleet was obliterated. Following this, Theodoric himself conquered Kimania (10-17 May 1139), which was followed in succession by Narra (20-25 May 1139); Reading (26 May 1139); Offshora (27 May 1139); Musania (1-7 June 1139); Messalina (10-15 June 1139); and Chobania (16-21 June 1139). On 22 June 1139, Queen Jurgunia denied the overlordship of the Huntite Khanate and launched a series of offensives against Abshire and the Huntite bases beyond Leo's Redoubt. These had fallen to her by 25 June.

Bodi Aligh, who was stunned by these reverses in the Barsar Regions, now felt threatened at the court of Jasonia, for many were accusing him of laziness, indolence, and incompetence. Wrangia Althia, although she was no longer Regent, was a Councilor and the Khaness Dowager. She continued to hold a major influence over her son. In July 1139, Khan Dost summoned the Supreme Commander to a series of private audiences in the Royal Chambers of the Khan's Palace on Jasonia, in which he communicated his "belief" that unless if the Supreme Commander undertook immediate action against the Ashlgothians and the Rudorites, "strict measures" would have to be employed. The Supreme Commander, however, now turned events to his advantage, as he pointed out the agreements with Wrangia Althia which granted him legal immunity from any charges or proceedings against him. Bodi Aligh was extremely popular with his subordinates and the people of the Huntite worlds, and he stated that if the Khan took action against him, he would "face the uprising of a thousand worlds." At this, Dost capitulated, and reaffirmed the terms which had been granted by his mother. With his position secure, Bodi Aligh now took action to reassert the Dasian position in the Barsar Regions. The Supreme Commander spared no effort at assembling a massive force, comprised of Dasians, Huntites, Robertians, Brestords, Jageronians, Sheldonians, Gabriellans, Shenandonans, Amelianian mercenaries, and Mauryans, although he had to employ harsh means to ensure that he had the sufficient resources available. He then entrusted command of these forces to Vevodich, another Brestord commander who was nevertheless loyal and tactically ingenious.

Vevodich arrived at Millard on 1 August 1139, and immediately launched vigorous campaigns against the Ashlgothians. Employing classic hit and run strategies, the General reconquered Narra (2-7 August 1139) and destroyed the Ashlgothian transport armada in the Asteroids of Jamnies (10-13 August 1139). Marsia and Leo's Redoubt were then secured (15-19 August 1139), followed by Gardiner, at one time the Ashlgothian capital (22-25 August 1139). Theodoric now attempted to send a force against Sisko, which had become a major Dasian assembly base, but this effort was foiled in the Battle of Paanies (29 August 1139). On 2 September, Vevodich reconquered Kimanis Mooria, and two days later, Theodoric was forced to abandon Kimania. By 10 September, Duana had been seized, and Jurgunia now suffered extensive casualties. On 13 September, Vevodich subdued Reading and launched a major raiding operation against Samantha, destroying the Ashlgothian shipyards and arms factories under construction there. A day later, Strongstine was conquered and a entire Rudorite fleet of dreadnoughts was captured. Vevodich conscripted this fleet into his forces.

Then on 15 September, Bodi Aligh himself arrived to lead further operations against Theodoric and his hordes. He ordered Vevodich to focus himself on destroying the remaining Rudorite forces. Vevodich campaigned vigorously, clearing out the Huttile systems (16-21 September 1139) and annihilating a Rudorite force in the Battle of Dennis (23-27 September 1139). He then instigated a siege of Abshire, which fell to his forces on 3 October. Bodi Aligh, in the meantime, reconquered Messalina (15-23 September 1139); secured Offshora (25-27 September 1139); and destroyed the Ashlgothian fleet stationed at Breha (29 September-2 October 1139). He then clashed with and defeated a joint Ashlgothian-Alexandrian force in the Battle of Desiane (4-9 October 1139). Al'shura and Madamia, which were major Ashgothic bases on the Denveranian Trunk Line, were captured (10-15 October 1139). Vevodich, in the meantime, cleared out pirate, Rudorite, and Alexandrian bases in the Wild Marshes.

Another theater of danger was now opened however, as King Genseric, who had observed on how the Supreme Commander and his chief subordinate were distracted by their campaigns in the Barsar Regions, decided to resume his offensives against Shenandoah, Melanie, Roastafaria, Choir, Vickis, and the other Huntite worlds of the Middle Territories. On 14 October 1139, the King of the Kuevians issued a declaration of war against the court of Jasonia, and launched a swift invasion. Majoria Schall was besieged and captured (14 October 1139), followed in rapid succession by Melanie Major (15 October 1139); Roastafaria Minor (16 October 1139); and Choir (17-18 October 1139). Then, on 19 October 1139, the Kuevian King began a siege of Shenandoah, one of the major bases of power for the Huntite Khanate. Khan Dost, who had no military expertise of his own and few units at his disposal, now sent a urgent plea to Bodi Aligh for him to deal with the Kuevians. Bodi Aligh however, could not afford to halt his efforts against the Ashlgothians, who continued to devastate the northern extent of the Barsar Regions.

The Devianiani too, prowled along the Denveranian Trunk Line. Vevodich also could not afford to terminate his campaigning, as Jurgunia constantly evaded the fleets sent against her. The Khan was thus alone. He sent a force under the command of the incompetent Admiral Yesugei to reinforce Shenandoah and Boydaria. Yesugei however, did not reach the besieged world in time. Shenandoah fell to the Kuevian Kingdom on 21 October 1139, dealing a major blow to the Huntite Khanate. According to contemporary accounts, Genseric's troops acted as "the greatest barbarians, the worst uncivilized scoundrels which this Galaxy has unleashed upon any species or any star system." Nearly a third of Shenandoah's population was killed, while another third was enslaved. Genseric had Governor Tolui of Shenandoah (1076-1139) incinerated to death in Shenandonana I. The King subsequently established Shenandoah as his capital world and seized control of its shipyards. Following this, he conquered Boydaria (22 October 1139); Choir (23-25 October 1139); and Vickis (27 October 1139), before penetrating to Uris (28-31 October 1139). Huntite defenses in that region collapsed, and Kuevian raids now reached as far as Meris, Beharis, and Walters.

Bodi Aligh was engaged in a military offensive against the Hotelman Defenses of Bookman when he received word of the fall of Shenandoah. According to Gibbeoneous, the "Supreme Commander of the armed forces of the Huntite Khanate is said to have fallen on his knees and implored, My, my, the Lords of our ancestors have forsaken us!." Vevodich, when he received news of the fall of Shenandoah, recounted a old Brestord prophecy, which said that "One precious jewel, of a state once so glorious, is snatched from it by the grasp of the space vultures." The Supreme Commander was now forced to attempt a expansion of his forces. He sent Dasian, Huntite, and Brestord units to Yesugei, but placed the Admiral under the authority of his own fleet captain, Rear-Admiral Caso-Ray (a Vickian). Bodi Aligh then reinforced the defenses of Robert, Meris, Shepherd, Beharis, and Hasselbeck, mustering a series of local defense and militia units. He even signed a agreement with King Penda of Marcia (22 October 1139), who by juncture of the Galactic Vector, sent him a considerable fleet of Amelianian, Nagai, Sassi-Ruuk, and Melanite destroyers, carriers, and dreadnoughts. Bodi Aligh's efforts managed to save the Robertian Regions from further offensives, while Cholodio of the Salarian Melorkians managed to repel Genseric's offensives into Roastafaria and the Kimanian Trade Run.

Bodi Aligh now vigorously escalated his campaigns against the Ashlgothians and Devianiani, seeking a end to that war. He finally conquered Bookman (25-29 October 1139) and secured the Orion Cluster (1-8 November 1139), before seizing the Armenian systems (10-15 November 1139). On 18 November, he crushed the Devianiani war chiefs in the Battle of Ginger, opening the way to Hamacaki Barka and the Durant Cluster. Skye I was sacked on 22 November, followed by Verding on 24 November, which brought the Alexandrians back under Huntite dominance. By 26 November, Bodi Aligh's forces had advanced into the Durant Cluster. On 28 November, Hamacaki Barka was recovered. The Supreme Commander then engaged in a harassment campaign throughout Devianiani territories, causing severe damage to many star systems. At the same time, his Roastafarian and Melorkian units protected the Huntite regions of Acamaria from Ashlgothian offensives. On 7 December, Sharon Alfonsi was reconquered, and five days later, the Supreme Commander won the Battle of Trinton, forcing the Devianiani Great Council to come to terms. On 14 December 1139, the Treaty of Posonia was signed, by which the Devianiani pledged homage to the Huntite Khanate, revoked their alliance with the Ashlgothians, and agreed to limit the size of their military forces. The Devianiani also agreed to refrain from any future alliance "hostile" to Huntite interests.

With the Devianiani and Alexandrians neutralized, Bodi Aligh now applied renewed pressure on the Ashlgothians. Beverly Hereidu was reconquered (15-21 December 1139), while the final remaining Ashlgothian armada in the Huntite Barsar Regions was annihilated in the Battle of Skold (23-25 December 1139). On 27 December, Bodi Aligh launched a series of offensives into the Ashlgothian home dominions themselves, crossing from Roastafaria, Armenia Major, and Beverly Hereidu. He stormed Nandia (28 December 1139); subdued Greg (1-7 January 1140); and destroyed the Ashlgothian defenses on Cyrus III, Alison, Hefner, and Brooke One (10-15 January 1140). Theodoric however, destroyed a Dasian-Brestord battlefleet in the Battle of Khagia (18 January 1140) and blunted a offensive against the shipyards of Knight (20-27 January 1140). By the end of January, the Ashlgothians had managed to halt any further Huntite offensives. Bodi Aligh was now frustrated in his attempts to make further gains in Ashlgothian territory, as Theodoric cleverly evaded battle and harried the Huntite supply lines. This situation continued during February 1140. On 3 March 1140, Theodoric launched a surprise counteroffensive, recovering Brooke One (4-9 March 1140) and subduing Security (10-15 March 1140) before laying waste to the Huntite assembly base on Lorenzo (16-21 March 1140). Bodi Aligh however, gained a victory in the Battle of Sies (22-27 March 1140) and recovered the Huntite position in the Allisoni star systems (1-9 April 1140).

Then, on 12 April 1140, he obtained a major victory in the Battle of Vithian, which finally forced Theodoric to ask for peace negotiations. The Treaty of Olapia (18 April 1140), resulted in the King of Ashlgothia acknowledging the overlordship of the Huntite Khanate. He once again assumed his obligation to defend the Huntite Khanate from outside threats and promised to pay a annual tribute to the Khan. In turn, Bodi Aligh returned all Ashlgothian territories conquered by his forces. Bodi Aligh had finally restored order in the northern Barsar Regions, but campaigns continued in full force against the Rudorites in the Wild Marshes. Throughout the first half of 1140, Vevodich had been disappointed, as Jurgunia harried his supply lines, evaded further direct combat, and maintained the integrity of her forces. Vevodich had thus pursued a harsh policy of plundering or ravaging any star systems which provided any support to the Rudorite armadas. Bodi Aligh, freed from his campaigns against the Ashlgothians and their allies, now sent substantial reinforcements to the General. With these, Vevodich finally cornered Jurgunia's armada at Urmania, one of the most isolated star systems in the Outer Borderlands (1-6 May 1140), obtaining a decisive victory. Jurgunia herself was captured, although not without a fierce struggle.

Bodi Aligh was not willing to allow the Rudorites to resume their earlier position as Huntite vassals, as he believed that they would continue to stir up rebel tensions and dissent in the Barsar Regions, and that they would always cooperate with the Khanate's enemies. As such, he commanded Vevodich, in a secret communique of 7 May 1140, to deal harshly with the Rudorite barbarians and to "scourge their Queen, to display a example of how we will deal with those who challenge the authority of the Khan." Vevodich followed his master's instructions to the letter. Queen Jurgunia was bound in chains, placed on a transport, and sent to Kimania, where she arrived on 10 May 1140. There, in front of the population of Kimania, the General of the Huntite Forces ordered for the Rudorite Queen to be tortured, ravaged, and incinerated. Jurgunia, upon hearing this, said that "thus, the absurd cruelty of the so called Dasian state is so revealed." Nevertheless, her protests were drowned out, and she was executed in a "barbaric manner" (according to Gibbeoneous), "so that none would be compelled to follow her path of insurrection on that world." Nearly a million Rudorites were also executed, while the remainder were tortured, imprisoned, or enslaved.

All Rudorite settlements were cleansed and given over to Jageronians, Brestords, Kimanians, and others as their colony worlds. With this, the Rudorites in the southern Barsar Regions had been subdued. Bodi Aligh was satisfied. Believing that he had insured the Huntite position in that region of space, the Supreme Commander returned to Jasonia on 24 May 1140, where he was received by a jubilant Khan Dost and Wrangia Althia with great pomp and ceremony. By decree of the Khan, the Supreme Commander was declared the hero of the State (26 May 1140) and awarded the Honors of the Order of the Sacred Ancestors, a military order which had originally been constituted in the late ninth century by Kublai Khan. This order had been revived by Khan Tokugaistus in 1094. The Supreme Commander then spent the next few months maintaining his position in the court, reorganizing his military forces, and rewarding his supporters for their efforts. Kuevian raids continued, although Genseric could not advance farther into Huntite territory because of the Salarian Melorkians, as well as the Robertian defenses.

By August 1140, however, the Supreme Commander of the Huntite Khanate had become convinced that the Kuevian threat needed to be removed, and as such, he decided to launch a series of coordinated and renewed military offensives against them. To ensure that this would be successful, Bodi Aligh dispatched a emissary to the court of Khan Tokugaistus, the Brestord diplomat Gallas, on 10 August 1140. Gallas was received with splendid ceremony and honor by the Homidinian Khan on Yutzy, which had become one of the Khan's favorite resort worlds. For several days, he was entertained by the members of the Khan's court, all the while conducting negotiations with the Khan over the matter of a anti-Kuevian offensive. Tokugaistus himself had been irritated by constant Kuevian raids directed at Dion, Brlla, the Homidinian worlds, Kledis Var, Markis Prime, and the outskirts of the Lacian Cluster. He too, wished to remove them as a threat. On 17 August 1140, the Treaty of Yutzy was signed by the Homidinian and Huntite Khanates. By the terms of this agreement, Dost and Tokugaistus agreed to cooperate in all military campaigns against "the Kuevian savages who currently control the parts of the Inner Territories which should rightfully belong to the Dasian states."

The Treaty's secret provisions provided plans for the partition of Kuevian territory, a provision which had demanded by Tokugaistus: Shenandoah, Melanie Major, Vickis, and Uris (effectively the Dasian Middle Territories), would revert to the Huntite Khanate, while the Millian systems would come into the possession of the Homidinian Khanate. With this agreement concluded, both Khanates prepared for war. Bodi Aligh assembled military units and squadrons, comprised of Dasians, Brestords, Robertians, Huntites, Jageronians, impressed Rudorites, Mauryans, Sheldonians, Gabriellians, and others, at Robert, Meris, Shepherd, Walters, Beharis, Hasselbeck, Samarkand, and Iego. Tokugaistus likewise assembled units at Dromund, Englestrom, Kledis Var, Homidinia, Markis Prime, Chalassion, Alyssa, and Alicia, among other worlds. Genseric however, had been informed of the Treaty and its process of negotiations by his spies at the Homidinian court, and he prepared himself for his enemies' offensives.

On 5 September 1140, the Huntite and Homidinian Khanates launched a joint offensive into Kuevian territory. Although a Huntite force seized Melanie Major (5-11 September 1140) and the Homidinians conquered Elijahana (12-15 September 1140), Genseric crushed a force sent against Nottingham in the Battle of Jordan (15-21 September 1140). He then harried Roastafaria Major (22 September 1140) and recovered the worlds of the Melanie Trunk Line (25-27 September 1140). Homidinian offensives against Par'say, Bar'say, Ondi'iray, and Temperance were blunted (September-October 1140), while the Huntites suffered a humiliating defeat in the Battle of Choir (1-10 October 1140). Genseric launched a raiding operation against Beharis, devastating much of the world (12-17 October 1140). He then recovered Eljahana (18-21 October 1140) and seized Yutzy (22-25 October 1140), disrupting Homidinian supply lines. Kuevian armadas launched a series of raids into Huntite and Homidinian territory throughout November 1140. Walters, Shepheard, Hasselbeck, Lorna, Samarkand, Hunt Minor, Kledis Var, Homidinia, Englestrom, Sonny, and other worlds all fell victim to their depredations. Bodi Aligh now departed from Jasonia (2 December 1140), determined to himself lead campaigns against the Kuevians.

Combining with a task force dispatched by Tokugaistus, he defeated a Kuevian armada in the Battle of Timur's Star (3-5 December 1140) and halted a Kuevian raiding offensive against Lorna (6-10 December 1140) before securing Meris (11 December 1140). At the same time, the Homidinians destroyed a Kuevian force at Solos (13 December 1140) and ended raids against Gibbs-to-Lester and Calms (6-12 December 1140). On 13 December, Bodi Aligh reconquered Uris, although his force suffered extensive casualties. Two days later, in combination with a force sent by Cholodio of the Melorkians, he destroyed a Kuevian fleet in the Battle of Vickis. Vickis was secured on 17 December, followed by Choir (19 December) and Hoohshikk (21 December). On 24 December, Thenoria, which had been a major Kuevian assembly base, was stormed and secured by the Huntites. Genseric however, blunted offensives against Boydaria (25-27 December 1140) and destroyed a Homidinian armada sent against Par'say (28 December 1140). On 29 December, he repelled a Huntite offensive against Melanie Major, Griffith, and Fats.

On 1 January 1141, Bodi Aligh launched a offensive against Taylor, mustering units from Lorna, Meris, Vickis, and Uris in a attempt to drive to a position near Shenandoah. Genseric however, intercepted him with his armadas, and in the ferocious Battle of Taylor (1-3 January 1141), managed to hurl the Huntite Supreme Commander back. Bodi Aligh subsequently lost Hoohshikk (4-7 January 1141) and was driven from Uris (10-11 January 1141), but maintained his position at Choir (12-19 January 1141). By the beginning of February 1141, a stalemate had ensued along that front, as the Supreme Commander was unable to dislodge the Kuevians from their positions. The Kuevians however, continued their assaults into Homidinian territory. Genseric stormed Englestrom (1-3 February 1141) and crushed a Homidinian defense fleet at Devlet's Spear (4 February 1141). Lacia was then besieged and conquered (5-6 February 1141). Genseric then penetrated to the Larkian Way, as he subdued Mocktrialis (10-11 February 1141) and conquered Greyson (12-14 February 1141). Kuevian raids now reached to the Corporate Trade Corridor. Khan Tokugaistus was desperate, and his attempts to fortify the Lacian Cluster, Markis Prime, and Maxwell against further Kuevian offensives failed. On 16 February, Genseric defeated a Homidinian fleet in the Battle of Lawson, and two days later, Markis Prime was subdued. In the Brestord Kingdom, in the meantime, Attila and Bletha had been watching events with a great interest.

The junior King of the Brestords had constantly stated that the Brestords should turn their attention to the Homidinian Khanate. Bletha was at first reluctant, as he did not want to break the Treaty Terms with that Dasian Khanate. His brother eventually prevailed upon him, however, and on 21 February 1141, the senior King of the Brestords granted his approval for military campaigns against the Homidinian Khanate. Brestord units assembled at Munist, Belkadan, Xilania Secondary, and Menia. Two days later, on 23 February, the Brestord ambassador to the court of the Homidinian Khan, Ogolio (1087-1146), lodged a formal message with the Khan, stating that "due to circumstances," the Brestord Kingdom was terminating diplomatic and economic relations with the Homidinian Khanate. Then on 25 February 1141 the Kingdom of the Brestords declared war against the Homidinian Khanate. Brestord forces crossed the Corporate Trade Corridor into what had once been the territory of the Northern Khanate. Tyson was conquered (26 February 1141), followed by the old systems of the Oirat Complex (27 February-2 March 1141). Houston was devastated (4 March 1141), while Attila crushed a Homidinian defense fleet in the Battle of Vandross (5-9 March 1141).

News of the Brestord offensives now prompted Tokugaistus and Bodi Aligh to find a way to terminate the war with the Kuevians. Genseric had made a peace offer on 28 February which had been rejected. Now, however, the Homidinian and Huntite Khanates were willing to enter into negotiations with him. A congress was opened on Robert from 10 March. Five days later, the Treaty of Robert was signed. By the terms of this agreement, Genseric was again accorded recognition as ruler of the Kuevian Kingdom in the Inner Territories. His control of Shenandoah, Melanie Major, Uris, and Hoohshikk was acknowledged. All slaves and equipment taken by the Kuevian King through his campaigns were allowed to remain in his possession. In turn, Genseric conceded Choir and Vickis back to the authority of the Huntite Khanate, while returning all territories to Tokugaistus which had been occupied by the Kuevians. With peace restored with the Kuevian Kingdom, Bodi Aligh could now turn his attention to assisting the Homidinian Khanate. A collection of Huntite, Dasian, Brestord, and Robertian units arrived at Coronadia on 18 March 1141, and were placed under the command of the Homidinian General Staff, for their use in campaigns against the Brestords.

Despite this batch of reinforcements, Khan Tokugaistus proved unable to arrest the Brestord advance north of the Corporate Trade Corridor. Attila ravaged the worlds of the Corporate Trade Corridor (20-29 March 1141) and stormed Karakorum (2 April 1141), which by this point was virtually abandoned. The junior King of the Brestords established his military command headquarters in the crumbling ruins of the Great Palace of Karakorum, which had been constructed by Ogedei in 837-41 and had been the residence of the Great Khans of the Dasian Empire, as well as the Khans of the Northern Khanate. From Karakorum, Attila subdued Glassia-beyond-the Corridor (4 April 1141) and harried Barnum (5-10 April 1141), before securing Sernapasia (12-14 April 1141). On 21 April, the Brestords conquered Elbing, and two days later, Attila gained a major victory in the Battle of Belkadan. By 24 April, all of the territory of what had once been the Northern Khanate was under Brestord control.

Attila then conquered Theodore (24-29 April 1141) and ravaged the systems of the Burglais Arm (May 1141), although Tokugaistus managed to reinforce Coronadia (2 May 1141). On 5 May, the Brestords conquered Scanlan, and two days later, they gained a victory in the Battle of Herkien. Mackenzia Major, Edmundia, Jacobs I, and Galdfard were now threatened, as the Brestords conducted their campaigns with great brutality. Tokugaistus' general Jasay (1090-1153) managed to launch a counteroffensive against Fatisa (6-10 May 1141), but was then defeated by Attila in the Battle of Vo'rill (15 May 1141). By the end of May, Edmundia had finally capitulated to the Brestords, and Mary-Lou was soon threatened. In June 1141, however, Attila decided to redirect his attention to the Larkian Way. He now subdued Pasthar (1-4 June 1141) and annihilated the Homidinian forces of Rube (5-9 June 1141), before subduing Capone (10-13 June 1141). On 17 June, Greyson was conquered. Mocktrialis, Gosnia, and Therley fell to the Brestords by 26 June. Then on 1 July 1141, Attila instigated a major siege of Chalassia. Khan Tokugaistus, who was trapped on the world with his advisers, was now at the lowest point in his fortunes. Desperate for assistance, he sent a urgent plea to Bodi Aligh (2 July 1141), requesting that the Supreme Commander come with forces to relieve the Homidinian Khanate of the Brestord threat.

Bodi Aligh, who had been engaged in crushing uprisings on Iego, James, and Ezelel, assembled his forces and crossed the Rebeccan Galactic Trade Route on 3 July 1141. He bypassed Brestord units stationed at Sonny, Englestrom, and Devlet's Spear, reaching Chalassia (4-5 July 1141) and harrying Attila's supply lines. The Brestord King was thus forced to retreat, although not before inflicting severe damage on Chalassia's space station and satellites. Nearly 45 million beings were slaughtered and the system was left in ruins. Bodi Aligh then cleared the Brestords from the Lacian Cluster (6-10 July 1141) and halted a offensive against Buranti (14-19 July 1141), before securing the southern reaches of the Corporate Sector (20-25 July 1141). Attila's hordes, however, continued to harry the Burglais Arm, and in August, Mackenzia Minor fell victim to a major Brestord raiding offensive. Nearly 250 million Mackenzians, Dasians, and Homidinians were slaughtered or enslaved. Nevertheless, Bodi Aligh maintained the Homidinian positions, and he prevented Attila from advancing any farther south. On 8 September 1141, Attila launched a renewed offensive into the Lacian Cluster, but after nearly a month of fighting, this was repulsed (2 October 1141).

Two months of indecisive skirmishing followed, during which billions of sapient beings died, were injured, or enslaved. Then on 6 December, the Huntite Supreme Commander launched a offensive against Edmundia from Mary-Lou and Pronoucia, reconquering the world in two days. Attila was now forced to retreat from the Mackenzian and Edmundian Sectors, and on 10 December, Bodi Aligh secured Scanlan and the remainder of the Corporate Sector for the Huntite Khanate. His offensive against Theodore failed however (11-17 December 1141). The Supreme Commander then reconquered Greyson (22 December 1141) and secured Mocktrialis (25 December 1141), before destroying Brestord units stationed at Etti, Somos, and Calms (26-29 December 1141). On 1 January 1142, he launched a renewed offensive against Theodore, which finally fell to the Dasians on 3 January. Bodi Aligh now turned his attention to expelling the Brestords from the territories north of the Corporate Trade Corridor. He conquered Glassia (5-9 January 1142) and defeated a Brestord fleet in the Battle of Syr-Daria (12 January 1142), before securing Tyson (13-17 January 1142). Attila however, blunted offensives against Houston and the Oirat Complex.

In February 1142, the Brestords harried the Whoopiee star systems, threatening to cut off the Huntite supply lines. Bodi Aligh managed to repel these offensives, although on 4 March, the Brestords recaptured Tyson and Syr-Daria. The Supreme Commander attempted to launch his forces against these worlds and against Karakorum, Sernapasia, and Vandross, efforts which failed (March-April 1142). Finally, on 1 May 1142, with both sides exhausted by the conflict, the Supreme Commander requested for peace. Attila agreed, and on 9 May 1142, the Treaty of Belkadan was signed. By the terms of this treaty, Khan Tokugaistus agreed to pay a annual tribute to the Kings of the Brestords and acknowledged their rights to launch border raids along the Larkian Way. In turn, Attila returned all conquered territories to the Homidinian Khanate and released all captives captured in the earlier campaigns. Bodi Aligh himself was paid a indemnity by both the Homidinian Khanate and the Brestord Kingdom, as compensation for his involvement.

The Supreme Commander returned to Jasonia on 11 May 1142, and occupied himself for several days, reorganizing his military units and sponsoring a series of administrative measures. Further trouble was brewing for him in the meantime. Genseric, who wished to assert control over all remaining Huntite territories in the Middle Territories, had been secretly preparing for a series of renewed military campaigns against the Huntite Khanate. On 24 May 1142, he rejected the terms of the Treaty of Robert and issued a declaration of war against the Huntite Khanate. Choir was conquered (25-29 May 1142), followed by Vickis (31 May-2 June 1142) and Hoohshikk (3-7 June 1142). Kuevian offensives into Roastafaria and to the Kimanian Trade Run were blunted however (June-July 1142). Bodi Aligh, now arousing himself from Jasonia, traveled to Robert to take command of the units hastily assembled against the Kuevians. Despite his efforts, Meris was conquered by Genseric (2-9 August 1142), followed by Hasselbeck (10-15 August 1142); Beharis (16-19 August 1142); and Shepherd (20-25 August 1142). A Kuevian offensive against Walters, Lorna, and Leah was blunted however (26-29 August 1142), while the Supreme Commander managed to gain a victory in the Battle of Carlist (1-3 September 1142).

On 6 September, he defeated a force sent by Genseric in the Battle of the Allkodio Nebula, and five days later, he reconquered Vickis in a surprise offensive. Attempts to storm Nottingham, Fats, and Melanie Major failed (7-11 September 1142), although Meris was recovered (14 September 1142). On 18 September, Bodi Aligh crushed a rebellion on Sheldonia which had been inspired by the Kuevians, and on 22 September, he defeated Genseric again in the Battle of Xim. Throughout the remainder of the month, and to the middle of October, skirmishes and operations along the Rebeccan Galactic Trade Route failed to dislodge the Kuevians from their gains at Hoohshikk and Choir. On 19 October, however, Bodi Aligh reconquered Hasselbeck and isolated Shepherd, which fell on 27 October. On 7 November 1142, the Supreme Commander gained another victory in the Battle of Xander, and four days later, he recovered Beharis. By the end of November, the Kuevians had been forced to retreat into the Middle Territories, although Genseric halted any further Huntite offensives. On 5 December, he requested a armistice, which was signed two days later. Treaty negotiations then began in earnest. Bodi Aligh, who realized that he would not be able to dislodge the Kuevians from their territories, thus decided to make formal recognition of all their gains, along with a promise to never threaten Kuevian territorial integrity. Genseric, in turn, decided to recognize Huntite rule of Roastafaria. On 21 December 1142, the Treaty of Hilte was signed, confirming these arrangements. Bodi Aligh, after the conclusion of peace with the Kuevians, reinforced the garrisons of the Robertian Worlds.

In January 1143, the Jageronians, under the command of their King, Heletier (r. 1139-43), launched a major uprising against the Dasian authorities of their region. Heletier conquered Iego (2-7 January 1143); destroyed the Dasian garrison of Jeanne (10-17 January 1143); and secured control of Dickerson (20-25 January 1143). Gabriella was then threatened by a Jageronian armada from 27 January 1143, falling to them on 6 February 1143. The Supreme Commander of the Huntite Khanate was once again forced to arouse himself from Jasonia, and he now conducted extensive efforts to avoid the loss of any further worlds to the Jagerons. He fortified Meris, Robert, Walters, Sheldonia, Prestley, Leah, and Natazha. The Supreme Commander then dispatched a force under the command of General Vevodich to harry the Jageronian posts and supply stations in the Wild Marshes. Vevodich obtained a major victory in the Battle of Stramis (10-13 February 1143), forcing Heletier to end plans for a offensive against Lorna. He then reconquered Meredita (15-21 February 1143), although a attempt to storm the Approaches of Iego failed (22-27 February 1143). Heletier now engaged in a policy of harassment, harrying many star systems during March 1143. Vevodich however, secured the Robertian Worlds from any further offensives.

On 7 April, Iego was finally recaptured, followed by Dickerson (10-15 April 1143). Heletier was then defeated in the Battle of Athania (16-21 April 1143) and was repelled from the Tamanes Bases (22-29 April 1143). On 4 May 1143, he was entrapped and captured by the Dasians in the Battle of the Beyonthar. Vevodich ordered for the execution of the rebel King (6 May 1143) and had many of his subordinates executed, imprisoned, or enslaved. Bodi Aligh, who was thus pleased over his commander's victories, showered upon him a series of honors and titles, while Khan Dost declared him to be a savior of the State. During May and June 1143, the Supreme Commander pursued a policy of pacification in the Robertian Regions, establishing a string of new military outposts in the Wild Marshes. He also installed Ybor II (r. 1143-69) on the Jageronian throne. Then on 4 July 1143, he received a Jarjanic emissary at his headquarters on Robert. This emissary had been dispatched by King Rechila of the Jarjanics, who had assumed the throne of that horde on 21 June. Rechila wished to establish a kingdom for his people in the Barsar Regions. At first, he believed that the Huntite Supreme Commander would be in favor of a arrangement by which the Jarjanics would protect Huntite territory and support the Khan's rule, in return for a domain of their own. He could not have been more wrong. The Supreme Commander, who believed that if yet another barbarian people was allowed to intrude onto the Huntite Khanate, it would harm Dasian power, rejected the King's plea.

Rechila, who was being pressured by his more war-like advisers, decided that he would establish his species in the Barsar Regions by force. He signed a secret military access agreement with the Devianiani Great Council of the Devianiani Confederacy (10 July 1143), which still nurtured hopes of overthrowing Huntite overlordship. The Jarjanic King then assembled his forces in the Galactic Vector, beyond the main disk of the Caladarian Galaxy. On 14 July 1143, the Jarjanic hordes launched a series of swift and coordinated offensives against the territories of the Huntite Khanate in the Barsar Regions, using the Devianiani strongholds as military supply bases. Abshire was conquered (15 July 1143); followed by Riley (16-19 July 1143); Strongstine (20-23 July 1143); and Drea (25 July 1143). Rechila then destroyed a Dasian-Huntite force in the Battle of Skold (27 July 1143), conquering that stronghold and driving Huntite units from the Denveranian Trunk Line. Jarman and Plath were then conquered (28 July-3 August 1143), thus severing the access of the Huntite Khanate to the southern end of the Denveranian Trunk Line.

Chobania was then invaded and conquered (4-9 August 1143), while a Dasian force sent from the Durant Cluster was intercepted and destroyed by a Devianiani squadron (10-13 August 1143). On 15 August, Bodi Aligh arrived at Kimania, and he sent a collection of Brestord, Huntite, Kimanian, Robertian, and Mauryan units to Kimanis Mooria, Leo's Redoubt, Duana, Samantha, and Messalina, bolstering those world's defenses. Rechila however, ignored them and instead assaulted Offshora (16-21 August 1143), which fell to him after a fierce struggle. The Huntite Supreme Commander now crossed the Kimanian Trade Run and launched surprise offensives throughout the Huttile systems (21-29 August 1143), which nevertheless failed to dislodge the Jarjanics. Bodi Aligh however, did repel a offensive against Leo's Redoubt (1 September 1143) and eliminated Jarjanic positions near Kimanis Mooria (2-9 September 1143). He was unable to advance farther south, however, as his supply lines were harried by Jarjanic raiding parties.

The Supreme Commander instead fortified Beverly Hereidu (10 September 1143) before assaulting Murdoch, Craig, and Daniel (12-17 September 1143), ravaging Devianiani military positions and taking a large number of captives. He then secured Hamacaki Barka (18-21 September 1143) and subdued Hannibal (24 September 1143), before securing Stewart (25-29 September 1143). Rechila, in the meantime, had managed to conquer Leo's Redoubt (10-20 September 1143), although his offensives against Millard, Kimanis Mooria, and Nikki Lowell ended in failure (October 1143). Bodi Aligh's defenses held in the face of further Jarjanic assaults. The Supreme Commander now conquered Lesia Major (1-4 November 1143), forcing the Devianiani Great Council to come to terms. The Treaty of Dante's Point (9 November 1143), resulted in the Huntite Khanate acquiring Hannibal and the worlds of the Farther-Durant, including the strongholds of Rupert, Murdoch, and Stewart. With the Devianiani Confederacy out of the war, the Supreme Commander now turned his attention to the Jarjanics. He reconquered Drea (10 November 1143), but then suffered a defeat in the Battle of Lautner (12-14 November 1143), which prevented the reconquest of Leo's Redoubt. The Supreme Commander did recover Abshire (15-21 November 1143) and halted a offensive against Reading, Taning, and Breha (22-29 November 1143).

By the beginning of December, the Jarjanics had also retreated from Offshora, and Chobania was now under pressure by Huntite units. Rechila now executed a major counteroffensive, storming Samantha in a surprise attack (2-4 December 1143) and harrying Kimanis Mooria (5-9 December 1143), before sacking Bookman (10-14 December 1143). Bodi Aligh was unable to prevent the loss of Millard (17-19 December 1143) or the loss of Offshora (22-27 December 1143). He did, however, end the Jarjanic assault across the Kimanian Trade Run with the assistance of Amelianian and Melorkian units (1-7 January 1144). On 10 January 1144, Bodi Aligh recovered Bookman, although the Orion Cluster was subject to extensive Jarjanic plundering operations. Five days later, the Supreme Commander recovered Samantha, but Rechila at the same time penetrated the defenses of Kimania, with his fleets appearing above that world's shields. Soon afterwards, the Kimanian garrison revolted against its Dasian commanders.

On 16 January, the garrison lowered the planetary shields and surrendered to Rechila. The King, who was pleased that they had submitted so quickly, announced his intentions to "support the Kimanian species in the restoration of their independence." Bodi Aligh, enraged by this, vigorously pursued his offensives. He reconquered Offshora (18-21 January 1144), although the assault against Chobania (22-29 January 1144) ended in failure. Rechila soon recovered his position and seized Reading (1 February 1144), before storming Breha (2 February); Christopher (5 February); and Bookman (7 February). During the next month, Jarjanic and Huntite forces struggled with each other for control in the Barsar Regions, with many skirmishes, ambushes, and raids taking place. Neither was able to make any further advances.

In the Kingdom of the Brestords, Attila and Bletha had learned from their ambassadors and their spies about the Huntite military campaigns in the Barsar Regions. The two co-Kings of the Brestords had decided that because Bodi Aligh would be distracted by his campaigns and military expeditions in the Barsar Regions, they could launch a renewed invasion of the Homidinian Khanate. Throughout 1142 and 1143, Khan Tokugaistus had paid tribute to the Brestord court, although in secret he was formulating plans for military campaigns against the Brestords. On 16 February 1144, Attila and Bletha received word that the Homidinian Khan had constructed secret shipyards at Lacia, Dromund, Englestrom, English Star, and Coronadia. The Kings of the Brestords decided that this provided a excuse for military intervention. On 18 February, the two Kings dispatched a joint diplomatic communique to the court of the Khan on Homidinia, declaring their knowledge of his "treachery" and stating that unless Tokugaistus conceded the territories of the former Northern Khanate to the Brestord Kingdom "in fulfillment of his duties as a dependent vassal," military campaigns would resume. Tokugaistus, wrongly believing that he would be ready to repel their offensives, rejected the ultimatum on 20 February. Five days later, Attila launched a series of intensive military campaigns across the Larkian Way and to the Corporate Trade Corridor.

He besieged and captured Houston (26 February 1144); destroyed the Homidinian shipyards and defenses of the Oirat Complex (27-28 February 1144); secured Syr-Daria (1 March 1144); and crushed a Homidinian reinforcement fleet in the Battle of Ross (2-5 March 1144). On 6 March, Sernapasia and Karakorum were secured without a challenge. The desperate Khan Tokugaistus dispatched a force to Tyson, Vandross, and Glassia, but this was crushed by Attila in the Battle of Nandi Diri (7-11 March 1144). On 15 March, Tyson was conquered, followed by Vandross three days later. Glassia and the lower Corporate Trade Corridor had been subdued by 24 March. By that time, Bodi Aligh had managed to make some further advances against the Jarjanics. The Supreme Commander ended a offensive against Maurya (25-29 March 1144), before reconquering Reading (2 April 1144); Breha (3-5 April 1144); Samantha (6-9 April 1144); and Chobania (10-11 April 1144), although a attempt to recover Christopher and Bookman was blunted (12-14 April 1144). Nevertheless, Rechila still refused to make peace with the Huntite Khanate. By the end of April 1144, another stalemate had developed in the Barsar Regions. During that month, Fatisa and the remaining strongholds of the Homidinians north of the Corporate Trade Corridor had been secured by Attila.

Tokugaistus now vainly attempted to reinforce the defenses of Jacobs I, Coronadia, Edmundia, Scanlan, Theodore, and Buranti, attempting to bar a advance by the Brestords into the far-eastern regions of the Homidinian Khanate. Although a Homidinian defense armada scattered a Brestord horde in the Battle of Amarra (2-4 May 1144), Atilla gained a decisive victory in the Battle of Etti (5-9 May 1144), annihilating most of the Homidinian force at that world. Scanlan was conquered on 11 May 1144, followed by the systems of the Homidinian Frontier Posts five days later. The Brestords employed brutality and oppression during their campaigns, ravaging many of the Scanlanian and Corporate Systems. Attila then besieged and conquered Mary-Lou (12-17 May 1144), before securing Kaleb (21 May 1144). He then launched a surprise offensive against Mackenzia Major (22-25 May 1144), overwhelming and conquering that world. Homidinian garrisons on Gibbs-to-Lester, Calms, Yutzy, Dion, English Star, Jacobs I, Taraning, and Ian were destroyed (26-30 May 1144), weakening the defenses of the Homidinian Khanate. In the Barsar Regions, Bodi Aligh finally managed to reconquer Millard (1-10 May 1144) and secured the Orion Cluster (11-22 May 1144), although his offensives against Skold, Jarman, and Plath ended in failure (25-30 May 1144).

On 2 June 1144, Rechila, who was exhausted, requested for a armistice with the Huntite Khanate. The Supreme Commander accepted this request two days later, and on 10 June 1144, the Treaty of Smukto was signed on the obscure desert world of Smutko, located in the reaches of the Wild Marshes. By the terms of this agreement, Rechila gained confirmation of his rule as King of the Jarjanics, over Bookman, Christopher, Narra, Plath, Skold, Jarman, and Armenia Major. In turn, he agreed to become a "federate" of the Huntite Khanate, promising to defend Huntite territory and to assist in the suppression of uprisings or challenges to the rule of the Supreme Commander. Rechila also granted privileges for the Huntite military to travel across his territories, and he agreed to support Bodi Aligh's (still unfulfilled) ambitions in the Crimeanian Khanate. Although the Supreme Commander had failed to regain direct control of all the Barsar Regions, he had limited Rechila's power and found himself with another barbarian band who could be used to defend the Huntite borderland territories. Although Bodi Aligh had opposed this, he found that he had no choice. The Treaty of Smutko was confirmed by Khan Dost on 11 June 1144.

Following the conclusion of the Treaty of Smutko, the Supreme Commander decided to turn his attention to the situation in the Homidinian Khanate. The Khan and Wrangia Althia were both pressuring him to send reinforcements to Khan Tokugaistus, to halt Attila's offensives. Khan Tokugaistus himself had sent repeated pleas for assistance to the court on Jasonia, stating that his "dominions were being overrun by the Brestord mongrels." Bodi Aligh had been unable to answer the requests previously, because of the campaigns in the Barsar Regions. He did dispatch financial aid to the Homidinian court, extorting from the merchants and corporations of Hunt Minor, Samarkand, Gabriella, Sheldonia, Robert, Meris, and Walters in order to do so. The Supreme Commander could now support the Homidinian Khanate with military units. On 14 June 1144, a collection of Brestord, Huntite, Robertian, Jageronian, Amelianian, mercenary, Gabriellian, Sheldonian, Devianiani, Alexandrian, and impressed Rudorite units crossed the Rebeccan Galactic Trade Route, under the command of General Vevodich. Vevodich managed to relieve Ulysses, a major Homidinian military stronghold (15-19 June 1144), but his attempt to recover Kalbec failed (21-23 June 1144).

Greeley was then besieged and sacked by Attila (25-29 June 1144), disrupting Huntite supply lines to the Markian Systems. Markis Prime itself was besieged and conquered by the Brestords (1-3 July 1144), followed in rapid succession by Gwendolyn (4-9 July 1144); Kledis Var (10-13 July 1144); and Dembezaic (14-19 July 1144). The Brestords then crushed Vevodich in the Battle of Tyler Prima (20-25 July 1144) and ravaged Ryan, making off with a large number of hostages. Vevodich did manage to recover Theodore (26-29 July 1144) and reconquered Scanlan (1-9 August 1144), although the Brestords halted his attempts to proceed towards Vandross and Sernapasia. Attila now turned his full attention to the Lacian Cluster. He conquered Englestrom (11-17 August 1144); seized Dromund (22-27 August 1144); and harried the Styrian Caldera (28 August-2 September 1144).

The King of the Brestords then instigated a siege of Chalassia from 4 September 1144, seeking to conquer the world. Tokugaistus had fortified the world extensively, having assembled a powerful defense force and installed powerful planetary shields in the months before Attila's offensive. Vevodich also planned a major offensive to disrupt Brestord supply lines. After over a month, the Huntite forces struck on 7 October 1144. Englestrom, Dromund, Kristyn, Kacee, and Shaelynn, all of which were used by the Brestord Army as supply posts and command stations, were seized and reconquered by the Huntites. Two days later, Vevodich conquered Yutzy and isolated Dion, Calms, and Gibbs-to-Lester from the Brestord forces in the Edmundian regions. Attila was now forced to divert units from his siege of Chalassia to maintain his position in the other regions.

On 16 October 1144, a Huntite-Dasian force relieved Chalassia of the Brestord siege. Attila was now forced to flee with his hordes to the north, along the Larkian Way. Although he lost many of his dreadnoughts and worldships in the Battle of Adelita (17-21 October 1144), he was able to inflict a defeat on the Huntites in the Battle of Greyson (22-27 October 1144), maintaining his forces. During the next month, the Brestords engaged in a extensive campaign of plunder and devastation throughout the Homidinian territories, although Vevodich protected Homidinia, Chalassia, and the Lacian Cluster from their raids. He also managed to recover Gwendolyn (1-7 November 1144) and Dion (10-14 November 1144), although the Brestords retained their position at Kledis Var.

On 28 November 1144, however, Vevodich died when his command craft's hyperspace engineering systems suffered a major error, causing the vessel to hurl into English Star, which had been recovered on 25 November. All of the ship's 35,000 man crew were decimated. Attila thus managed to regain the advantage, reconquering English Star on 29 November. A day later, he secured Calms again and drove off a Jageronian-Dasian fleet at Quincy. Bodi Aligh however, sent substantial Sheldonian, Dasian, Jarjanic, and Melorkian reinforcements to the forces of the Huntite Khanate in Homidinian space, now under the command of his Vickian General Soros-Agash. Soros-Agash blunted a Brestord offensive against Elijahana (31 November 1144) and recovered Kledis Var again five days later. His offensives against Coronadia, Edmundia, and Scanlan failed however (1-7 December 1144), with the Brestords inflicting severe casualties upon the Dasians. By now, Attila was exhausted, and having occupied most of the Homidinian dominions, he was in the supreme position. On 13 December, after a series of skirmishes at Dion, Gibbs-to-Lester, and Brlla, the junior King of the Brestords sent a request to his brother that he be allowed to commence negotiations.

Bletha, whose health was in decline, and who knew that he would soon die, approved his brother's request a day later. On 18 December, Attila requested for negotiations, sending a holographic message to Tokugaistus and Soros-Agash, who were on Dromund. They accepted his request five days later, which was in turn accepted by Bodi Aligh and Dost. A armistice was formally proclaimed on 27 December. Two days later, a diplomatic congress was opened on Karakorum. Bodi Aligh, Dost, and Tokugaistus appreciated the irony of the situation, as Karakorum, once the "jewel of the Dasian Civilization," as Kublai Khan had called it, was now a virtually abandoned planetoid, under the control of the barbarians. Nevertheless, Attila wished to conduct negotiations there, and threatened to resume the war if the conference was not held on Karakorum. On New Year's Day 1145, the Treaty of Karakorum was signed. By the terms of this treaty, Attila and Bletha acquired the territories of the old Northern Khanate (which had become universally known as the Dasian Heartland by this time), alongside the Whoopiee and Buranti strongholds, Etti, Scanlan, and Theodore. In return, they retro-ceded all Edmundian, Mackenzian, Coronadian, Homidinian, and Larkian Way territories conquered by the Brestords back to the Homidinian Khanate. All Brestord units and garrisons in those areas were to be withdrawn by 2 September 1145. Tokugaistus, moreover, agreed to acknowledge Attila as his overlord, promised to pay him a annual tribute of $150.9 trillion marks, and recognized Brestord rights in the territories west of the Larkian Way. Bodi Aligh agreed to pay Tokugaistus half of the amount needed for the tribute, as well as monetary compensation. The Huntite Khanate also agreed to a "Treaty of Friendship" with the Kingdom of the Brestords.

Following the conclusion of this arrangement, other matters arose among the parties concerned. Attila had gained great fame and prestige among the Brestord hordes for his successful campaigns against the Homidinian and Huntite Khanates. On 6 January 1145, the junior King of the Brestords arrived back on Munist, where he was greeted with lavish ceremonies, parades, and celebrations. His elder brother Bletha accorded him a variety of military honors, declared him the "hero of our hordes," and stated that the ancestors and the Gods of the Brestords were proud of his accomplishments. It must be remembered however, that Bletha's health was in decline. The Senior King of the Brestords was diagnosed with the "curse of the Brestords" on 15 January, the same disease which had struck down Roura. Realizing that he was heading towards death, Bletha issued a official proclamation (21 January 1145), by which he acknowledged Attila as his successor, as sole King of the Brestords. In this very proclamation, Bletha enjoined his brother to promise to launch "further military campaigns against our neighbors, so that the honor of our species may be vindicated." Attila eagerly agreed and swore a oath to his brother that he would do so. Once the proclamation was made, the progress of King Bletha's disease accelerated. On 13 February, the King was formally confined in the Chambers of the Dead, as was formally the Brestord custom. Two days later, he entered the final stage of the disease. On 18 February 1145, Attila received the sole oath of allegiance from the Brestord hordes.

Then, on 1 March 1145, Bletha died and Attila became the sole King of the Brestords. Assuming absolute governance of the hordes, the King of the Brestords immediately focused his efforts on vastly expanding the taxation and conscription systems, so as to strengthen the Brestord military forces. On 11 March, Bletha was buried in the Vault of Monarchs, his funeral being attended by dignitaries of the Homidinian Khanate, the Huntite Khanate, the Kazanian Khanate, the Amelianian Kingdoms, the Venasian Khanate, the Crimeanian Khanate, Laurasia, the Devianiani Confederacy, and the Kuevian Kingdom, among others. In the meantime, Bodi Aligh shifted his attention to two matters: raising the funds to be paid to Tokugaistus and making preparations for the campaigns in the Crimeanian Khanate. The Supreme Commander applied much of his effort and attention to the first of these goals. The Huntite treasury had again been drained by the exertions of war. To raise the funds necessary, the Supreme Commander applied a series of brutal and harsh measures. Various worlds were extorted or blackmailed from, while a variety of new taxes, tariffs, and excises were imposed. It was not until August 1145 that the amount needed for the financial loans to Tokugaistus was raised. Bodi Aligh then focused his efforts on preparing for the intervention into the Crimeanian Khanate. Military units, comprised of Dasians, Brestords, Huntites, Robertians, Jageronians, Sheldonians, Gabriellians, Jarjanics, impressed Rudorites, and others, were assembled at Millard, Filorean, Kimania, Kimanis Mooria, Constipex, Newman Victoria, Nikki Lowell, and other strongholds.

The Short Regency of Callos and his Deposition; The Short Regencies of Dosrios and Lacoles; The Regency of Ethaysan and the Rebeccan General Santaz; Their Deposition by Joasaphus; The Regency of Betakasius and Pope Joasaphus; War with Kazanian and Venasian Khanates; Rise of Flavius Aetius to Fame; He wins victories in the War (1138-1141)

Having mentioned the Crimeanian Khanate, attention must again be turned back to the Core Regions and the events which transpired in those states. When the Regent died on 3 April 1138, her son, King Honorius II, was only seven years of age. Obviously, he was still too young to take up the reins of state, and as such, a further continuation of the Laurasian Regency was required. Regent Elena, however, having been distracted by her internal repressions, her lover, and the Second Goldarian War, had never found the time to arrange for emergency circumstances, if she died before her son reached the age of majority. Her husband, the late King Arasces III, had failed to provide procedures on such a situation in his will. As such, there descended upon the Royal Laurasian Government, a uncertainty of who would become the Regent of Laurasia. For several days, the Laurasian State was engulfed in a spate of conspiracies and plots, as various noble factions sought to make good their claim to power. Pope Peter, who had been visiting the monasteries of Clackimaris at the time of the Regent's death, heard of these circumstances and decided to intervene. Arriving on Laurasia Prime (12 April 1138), the Pope immediately convened a assembly of the Royal Council, the leading military, civil, and ecclesiastical officials, the nobility, and the members of the Royal Household. At the assembly, it was first proposed that the Pope himself assume the office of Regent. Peter, however, declared himself "unfit for such a great honor" and stated that Almitis had "given him his position as his spiritual representative, so that he could continue to maintain the Church." The Prince of Ipsus V, Callos (the late Regent's lover), now attempted to install himself as the new Regent. With his supporters and associates in the Council, the Prince managed to obtain support. On 15 April 1138, Peter and the Royal Council acknowledged the Prince of Ipsus V as the Regent of the Stellar Kingdom of Laurasia, to govern in the name of the King until he reached his age of majority at eighteen. This decision was acknowledged by a session of the nobility and the leading military commanders two days later. On 18 April, Callos took the oath of office as Regent. Moving into the Royal Quarters of the Celestial Palace, the Prince now sought to consolidate his position.

Many however, still remembered his actions during the first year of the deceased Regent's rule, despised his association with her, and loathed the consequences of his rule. Their fears were soon justified. Callos, believing that now he was Regent, his position was unassailable, assumed a arrogant and haughty tone. Although he had displayed his skills as a military commander, and although he had served the Regent well in government affairs, Callos was tainted by the opportunities offered by supreme power and prestige. He soon established a reputation as a greedy, gluttonous, cruel, untrustworthy, and lazy Regent. Callos diverted nearly half of the government's revenues to his personal coffers, maintained a over-expensive and extravagant court, and handed out bribes, gifts, titles, and privileges to his friends, associates, and family members. In the decree of 21 April 1138, issued in the "honorable name of His Majesty," Callos granted his elderly father, Count Vespasian Callos of Chloe (1066-1139), the rights to monopolies on all "agricultural goods, equipment, and produce which this Kingdom hath generates." Another decree of 27 April 1138 granted his close friend, Prince Caligula Wallios (1102-41), the right to demand a tribute from all nobles who sought access to the Royal Court. Even the Church suffered exactions. In May 1138, the Regent revoked the exemptions granted to fifty Church estates, subjecting them to a form of the planetary tax, to be paid directly into the coffers of the Royal Household.

A month later, Callos forced Pope Peter to issue a formal revision of Church policy, by which the Church endorsed the theory that Callos was "the new servant of Almitis." Callos then offended the nobility by forcing them to engage in a ridiculous ceremony of homage on 23 June 1138, in which they were required to wear humiliating costumes and act "in the manner of slaves" (according to Viscount Monompahalaus). Afterwards, Callos took for himself, many of the more prominent nobles' daughters and established them in a court harem. He even began considering plans to legalize slavery. Callos' popularity, which had, because of his military victories, been raised to greater heights then before, now sunk to a new low. The Pope regretted having supported Callos, and he now supported the intrigues of another nobleman, one Lord Anacletus Dosrios (1097-1139) of the Constantine Cluster. Dosrios, who was a veteran of both Goldarian Wars, had nevertheless been opposed to the Regent and her lover. He had focused himself on encouraging dissent against Callos' rule, and he too, was humiliated in the ceremony of homage. Dosrios now planned active rebellion. In July 1138, he assembled secret units of the nobility and his family in the Constantine Cluster, particularly at his family's holdings on Andriana, Gordiania, and Althaium. The Regent, too distracted by his activities at the court, did not take note of these preparations.

On 1 August 1138, Anacletus formally instigated rebellion against Callos, raising his standard at Gordiania. In a noble proclamation, issued the following day, Lord Dosrios claimed that he was engaged in this action "to overthrow the tyrant, who threatens the stability of the state and the person of His Majesty, our most dear Young King." He destroyed the Regent's garrison on Andriana (2-4 August 1138) and secured his control of the entire Constantine Cluster. Chloe was then conquered (5-9 August 1138); followed by Mercedes (10-15 August 1138); Corudina V (16-18 August 1138); and Gordasis (20-21 August 1138). By the middle of August, nobles throughout the Western Provinces of the Stellar Kingdom had begun defecting to the side of the rebel, and the position of the Regent weakened considerably. On 27 August, Metallasia was secured by Lord Dosrios, who thus asserted his complete dominion of the Metallasian Trade Corridor. Dosrios then conquered Scout (28 August-2 September 1138) and destroyed a fleet sent by the Regent in the Battle of Nagia (4-5 September 1138), securing the Wayguard Hyperspace Approaches. On 7 September, Caladaria defected to the rebel, followed by Darcia (10 September); Elizabeth (11 September); Clackimaris (12 September); Ralina Vixius (15 September); and Augis V (19 September). Dosrios then advanced to Katherine, driving away the Regent's forces and securing control of the important shipyards (20-22 September 1138). Then, on 26 September 1138, Pope Peter formally declared his support for Lord Dosrios and rejected the authority of Regent Callos.

The conquest of Briannia (27-29 September 1138), cut the Regent off from his forces eastwards of Arias, Meaganian, and Ipsus V. On 2 October, Janesia and Dearton's Gateway were secured by the rebel, who was now pressing perilously close to Laurasia Prime. The Regent, who was afraid that he would be humiliated and executed in a gruesome matter, thus decided to flee the capital world with his remaining personal units. On 6 October, just as Americana was conquered by the rebel, Callos and his personal fleet fled Laurasia Prime. The population of the capital world immediately sent a message over the Holonet to Dosrios, inviting him to "come and be our new guardian." On 8 October, Dosrios arrived at Laurasia Prime in triumph, and was greeted by Pope Peter, as well as the young King Honorius, with lavish ceremony. Two days later, the Royal Council proclaimed Dosrios the new Regent of Laurasia. He now secured the allegiance of the Laurasian territories in the Central Core (11-15 October 1138). On 18 October, his position as Regent was acknowledged by the Crimeanian Khanate, the Kazanian Khanate, Goldaria, Murphy, and Schaueria Prime. Callos however, from the bases he still controlled on Arias, Ipsus V, Meaganian, Capital, and Tommy, posed a threat to the new Regent's position in the eastern Core Worlds. Dosrios conquered Arias (20-25 October 1138) and secured Ipsus V (26-29 October 1138), although Callos repelled a offensive against Tommy (1-3 November 1138) and launched a major raiding operation against Leopoldia, Big Twinny, and Deanna (5-17 November 1138). Nevertheless, on 24 November, Meaganian was secured by Dosrios. Capital fell on 2 December 1138. Callos then lost Tommy on 9 December 1138 and was forced to retreat towards Hordania and Dorothy. For the next two months, the former Regent managed to evade capture.

Eventually, on 4 February 1139, Callos was betrayed by his own fleet officers, who sent a secret message over the Holonet to the Government of Laurasia Prime about their master's whereabouts. The officers had been lured by the Regent's promise of a unconditional pardon and of a substantial financial bounty to any who revealed where Callos was. That night, as Callos was sleeping in his private shipboard cabin, the defenses were penetrated by his men, who bypassed his personal defense robot and laid their hands upon him, dragging him from his bed. Callos was then bound in chains. The following day, the fleet commanders of Callo's remaining armada surrendered to the Laurasian garrison of Hammenor and turned their "illustrious" prisoner over to the garrison. Callos was then placed on a transport and trundled back to Laurasia Prime on the orders of the Regent. He arrived at the capital world on 9 February, as the Regent had ordered for the transport to stop at Hordania, Meaganian, Capital, Ipsus V, Colsonia, Archleuta, Briannia, Rebecca, Katherine, Durglais, Chancia, Arias, Katie, Caladaria, Clackimaris, Americana, Ralina Vixius, Augis V, Constantine I, Scout, Andriana, and Darcia along the way, among other worlds, "so that the population of this honorable dominion may see the man who almost brought doom upon them."

Everywhere he was seen, Callos was jeered at and insulted, with pieces of debris and trash being plucked at him. A flimsiplast sign placed around his neck said that "Here is the Traitor, who was the paramour of the late Regent and who tried to destroy the Kingdom." On 11 February, before a gathering of the leading nobles, military commanders, government officials, church dignitaries, and diplomatic ambassadors of the other Powers, Callos was accused of engaging in treason, conspiracy, heresy, corruption, and greed. Three days later, he was formally condemned by the assembly and sentenced to death, although Dosrios decided to commute that sentence to life imprisonment. Callos was deprived of all his honors, orders, and properties, branded a enemy of the State, and struck from the Annals of the Royal Court. On 22 February, he was imprisoned in the Secret Yards of Ipsus V. Callos would die there on 11 January 1143 from neglect and brutal treatment at the hands of his guards.

The Regent also turned his attention to Callos' associates, friends, and family members. Callos' father, Lord Vespasian, was found hiding in the compartments of a smuggler's vessel at Djepie on 24 February. He was placed on trial, stripped of his noble rank, and sent to the Maze Prison of Windowia Photis, dying there on 19 April from old age and neglect. Callos' three sisters were tortured and forced to take the veil. His brother, Lord Demetrius Callos (1105-39) who had hid on the isolated frontier world of Levi, located in the outskirts of Laurasian territory, was identified and arrested on 19 March. He was executed a month later. By the decree of 22 March 1139, all of those who had received privileges, loans, or favors from the Regent were deprived of such, and were exiled or forced to retire from public involvement. Dosrios however, also undertook other measures. On 1 April, he returned all of Callos' "harem girls" to their families, and ordered for each to be paid a substantial financial indemnity for the "loss of their honor and virginity at the hand of the cruel man." Five days later, Pope Peter was allowed to restore the original Church properties, and all church estates were confirmed in their privileges and exemption from taxation.

During the first few months of his administration, Dosrios was a relatively benevolent ruler, as he focused his efforts on consolidating his position, rewarding his supporters, reorganizing the Royal Household, and restoring Laurasian finances. The Regent, who was fifty years old, unmarried and childless, now began to contemplate the possibility of siring a heir, so that his family could maintain their position in the Laurasian state and government after his death. He even had fantasies of establishing a new dynasty. As such, the nobleman now turned his attention towards securing himself a bride. Believing that marriage with a Laurasian women would lead to domestic factions forming, the Regent decided to find for himself a Dasian wife. He foolishly believed that the connection with one of the Khanates would inspire a sense of imperialism among the Laurasian people. He did not take into consideration the fact that the Laurasians hated the Dasians and still held bitter memories of the Yoke.

On 18 June 1139, the Regent sent a message to Khan Safa Giray, requesting for negotiations to begin on a possible marriage with the Khan's sister, Baslai (1113-39). Although this message had been sent over a secret hyper-comm channel, it was soon revealed to the public by one of the Regent's secretaries, who provided it to the Laurasian Times. The public was sent into a rage when hearing of the Regent's preparations, engaging in public protests, rallies, and demonstrations. Dosrios, enraged by this turn of events, had the secretary identified (as Tiberius Hermachia), arrested, and executed (25 June 1139). Two days later, he employed armed force to crush the protests. The Regent's advisers and ministers on the Royal Council, who had previously been unaware of his plans, implored their master to reconsider his decision "for the sake of Laurasia." Dosrios refused, however, stating that he was merely securing his family's position. On 1 July, Safa Giray sent a response to the Regent's message, indicating that the marriage negotiations could commence. After a month of wrangling, the Treaty of Deanna was signed (4 August 1139), by which the Regent promised to pay a substantial dowry to his new wife and agreed to lower demands of tribute from the Kazanian Khanate. In turn, Safa Giray promised to help the Regent in maintaining himself against his enemies. When Baslai received word of the planned marriage, she was sent into a "fit of sadness and rage, the like of which none of us expected from a Princess of regal bearing such as herself." Nevertheless, she had to agree, and the engagement of the Regent with the Kazanian Princess was announced on 10 August.

Many nobles and magnates at the Laurasian court, as well as Pope Peter himself, remained opposed to the marriage. Their petitions to him, sent throughout August and September 1139, about the matter were ignored. Then on 21 September 1139, the Regent and Princess Baslai were married. The Princess however, received a cold reception at the Celestial Palace, and a major insult occurred when the major Laurasian noblewomen refused to extend their collective blessings to her, as had previously been the custom. Pope Peter delivered a series of sermons at the court, raging against "this dangerous and unnatural union." This now aroused the anger of the Regent, who issued a injunction on 24 September, forbidding the Pope to talk any more about the matter. The Pope ignored the injunction however, and continued to state his concerns. Dosrios, insulted at this defiance of his will, ordered for the Pope's arrest on 26 September. When the Royal Guardians took the Pope into custody, Peter cursed Dorsios and said that he would meet a "horrific death." Nevertheless, this did not save him. On 1 October, he was deprived of his position as Pope, stripped of his honors and ecclesiastical titles, and banished to a distant monastery on Marios. Peter was to remain incarcerated there until his death on 22 May 1147, aged 77.

Following the removal of Peter from his position, Dorsios appointed the clergyman Daniel (1083-1145), Archbishop of Ralina Vixius, as the new Pope of the Royal Almitian Church on 6 October 1139. Daniel was formally enthroned by the Church dignitaries in a lavish ceremony four days later. The new Pope had long been a ally and associate of Dorsios and his family. He declared his support for all of the Regent's actions and threatened to excommunicate any who challenged his authority. He also denied the truth of Pope Peter's curse, stating that it was "generated by the mouth of the Anti-Almitis." In the eyes of many, however, that would soon be disproved. On 14 October 1139, the Regent and his wife announced that they were expecting a child, to arrive in the following year. Many Laurasians believed that a half-breed should not become a Laurasian noble, and some feared that the Dasians of the Kazanian Khanate would use the child as a attempt to overthrow Laurasian overlordship, recover lost territories, and even re-impose the Yoke over Laurasia. A Laurasian nobleman, Prince Cornelius Sudaratus of Caladaria (1101-40), decided to take advantage of these tensions so as to dispose of the Regent and his wife. He assembled a group of conspirators at the Royal Court, bribed the Guardians of the Royal Household to his side, and communicated his intentions to the nobles, who offered him their full support. On 3 November 1139, the Prince of Caladaria carried out his plans. He and a select corps of troopers bypassed the security defenses of the Royal Quarters, which had been disabled by their supporters among the Regent's security staff.

They burst into the chamber, where the Regent and his wife were sleeping. The Regent stirred from his bed and demanded an explanation for the intrusion. Before he could finish his words, however, the Prince of Caladaria took him and butchered him to death with vibroswords. Princess Baslai screamed, and she too became a victim of the murderers, as she was also torn apart by the vibroswords. The couple's blood streamed onto the chamber floors. The Regent and his wife, thus so brutally murdered, were no longer a threat, in the conspirators' minds, to government security. The following day, the Prince announced the deaths of the Regent and Baslai, claiming that they had been "slain by some ruddy fellows of a barbaric disposition." On 6 November, a session of the Royal Council installed Prince Cornelius as the new Regent of the Stellar Kingdom of Laurasia, producing a false will claimed to have been written by Dorsios. Pope Daniel, who refused to believe that Dorsios had died in such a manner as described, openly accused the new Regent of murder. Cornelius, angered at this, said that the Pope was "one engaged in bringing ruin on the state." On 11 November, the Pope was arrested, tried, and deprived of his position. He was banished to the Monastery of Chloe, dying there on 5 July 1145. Five days later, the Regent installed a new Pope, his household chaplain Lucius (1085-1140).

Prince Cornelius soon encountered a threat to his own authority. The Prince, having obtained the Regency, now sought to reap from its advantages. He ordered the arrest, interrogation, and punishment of many of his enemies at the Royal Court. He passed out bribes and favors to his supporters, reestablished a extravagant Royal Court, and imposed a oppressive regime of censorship. He issued a series of decrees in December 1139, conferring upon himself vast new properties on Arias, Senna, Decapolia Major, Colsonia, Archleuta, Selena, Meaganian, and Capital. The Prince soon became as unpopular with the Laurasian population as his two predecessors had been, and conspiracies against him festered. Although the Prince crushed all public protests and demonstrations against his rule, he was unable to deal with those who opposed him privately. A Laurasian government official, Lord Stephen Lacoles (1093-1140), who had served as the Chief Secretary of the Bureau of Labor and Laurasian Economics since 1130, developed a determination to depose the Regent and to bring another series of arrangements into operation.

In January 1140, the Chief Secretary of Labor began to assemble his own military force at the secret shipyard of Labor on Nystadia, determined to employ this force to oust the Regent by force. The Regent, whose own advisers were turning against him, was told that this force was being organized so as to maintain government and noble control over the mines and factories of the Briannian worlds. This was false. On 9 February 1140, the Chief Secretary, who had joined the forces at Nystadia, declared his opposition to the regency of the Prince of Caladaria. Briannia capitulated without a struggle (10 February 1140); followed by Meaganian (12 February 1140); Arias (15 February 1140); Leopoldia (16 February 1140); Alexandra (19 February 1140); and Big Twinny (22 February 1140). The Chief Secretary had to employ force in securing Ipsus V (24-27 February 1140); Hordania (1-9 March 1140); Compost V (10-15 March 1140); Dorothy (16-19 March 1140); and Hammenor (20-25 March 1140).

The Regent now dispatched a force to the Decapolian systems, attempting to halt any further advances by the Chief Secretary. Although this force gained a minor victory in the Battle of Shapman (26-29 March 1140), it was then defeated by the Chief Secretary's military subordinates in the Battle of Mumbraine (1-9 April 1140). On 11 April, the Chief Secretary secured the support of Schaueria Prime and Murphy, both of which provided units to him. On 15 April, Senna Major was secured by the Chief Secretary, followed by Saray two days later. By the end of April, Meaganian, Arias, Tommy, Capital, and Reese had also been secured by the Chief Secretary. On 4 May, the Chief Secretary's forces occupied Teth in a surprise offensive, isolating the Regent's units at Bainsborough, Marshia, and the Sail Line. Marshia then capitulated on 7 May. Yularen and Daala were secured by 16 May, while on 21 May, Lathasold of Goldaria switched his loyalty to the Chief Secretary. Then on 22 May, Clancia was secured. Reoyania, Dramis, Conservan, and Condtella fell after a series of bitter sieges (May-July 1140), while the Regent's attempt to reinforce Melarnaria was blunted in the Battle of Paramine.

Melarnaria itself fell on 1 August. Then on 4 August, the Chief Secretary's fleet used a secret hyperspace route, with information provided by his associates in the Royal Government, to reach Laurasia Prime, bypassing the defenses of the Upper Clancian Trade Line. Laurasia Prime, which festered in dissent against the Regent, lowered its shields the following day and welcomed the Chief Secretary. Lord Lacoles himself arrived on Laurasia Prime on 6 August. Prince Cornelius had fled Laurasia Prime on 2 August, and he now attempted to continue his resistance from his bases on Andriana, Americana, and Darcia. The Prince however, was losing support amongst his subordinates, and on 4 August, they turned on him, killing him with a round of blaster shots on the bridge of his flagship, the HRMS Hammer. By 10 August, all of the Kingdom acknowledged the rule of the Chief Secretary, who was proclaimed Regent five days later. The Secretary, at his acceptance ceremony, presented the nine-year old King to the Court, stating that he was "governing in His Majesty's interest."

Lord Lacoles however, was not to enjoy the Regency for long. The deceased Regent's younger brother, Count Dionysus Sudaratus of Durglais (1106-40), who had disassociated himself from his brother and thus managed to evade capture, nevertheless now developed his own ambitions. Determined to get rid of the Chief Secretary, the Count hired a group of mercenaries on 22 August 1140, offering them a substantial financial sum if they killed the Chief Secretary. These men, headed by the Rebeccan noble Santaz (1090-1140), accepted his offer and prepared their conspiracy. By the beginning of September, the men had managed to obtain for themselves positions among the corps of the Guardians. Santaz and his officers quickly used their position to accumulate information about the Royal Court and about the habits, schedules, and matters of the Regent. Lord Lacoles, who was engaged in administrative and civil matters, ignored the warnings of some of his military officers that his life might be in danger. The Regent said that "the people have accounted me a hero and a Savior, and none would dare to drive me from my position or exterminate my life." On 7 September 1140, the conspirators rigged the Regent's shuttle with explosives. The Regent then departed on the shuttle with several of his associates, intending to examine the Cities of Jadia. As soon as his shuttle lifted off, the explosives activated, tearing the vessel apart.

All aboard, including the Regent, were killed instantly. The shuttle's remains fell deep into the planetary surface, and it was not until 9 October that they were found. Following this, Count Dionysus arrived at Laurasia Prime (10 September 1140), and with the support of his mercenaries, forced Pope Lucius to convene a session of the Royal Council. The Council, with its chambers surrounded by soldiers wielding blasters, proclaimed the Count Regent of Laurasia on 14 September. The Count then immediately turned his attention to asserting his position. He ordered the arrest and execution of several notable magnates on 17 September, seeking to clamp down on opposition towards him among the nobility. On 24 September, the Regent confiscated the estates of the former Chief Secretary. Then on 28 September, Pope Lucius himself was arrested. Placed on trial, the Pope attempted to defend himself, but was overruled. He was convicted and executed on 11 October. The Count, refusing to nominate a successor, instead placed the Church under his direct oversight (19 October 1140). He was now overreaching himself however. The Count had failed to pay the mercenaries as he had promised; indeed, on 25 October, he denied any association with them. Santaz, angered by this betrayal, now planed his own conspiracy against the Count. On 6 November 1140, he and his men used a disruptor to incinerate the Count-Regent to death as he was delivering a speech before a assembly of military commanders and district governors.

Following this, Santaz attempted to install himself as the power behind the government. Using his men, he forced the Royal Council to convene again (11 November 1140). The Council, intimidated by the presence of the mercenaries with their weapons in the chambers, selected the Laurasian nobleman Caius Ethasyan (1094-1156) as the new Regent of the Stellar Kingdom of Laurasia (13 November 1140). Ethaysan agreed to acknowledge Santaz as the commander of his military forces and promised to not engage in any actions against him. He also promised to pay double the amount which had been offered by the Count-Regent. Caius thus focused his efforts on raising this financial payment over the course of the next month. Santaz and his band, in the meantime, conducted a campaign of extortion, blackmailing, humiliating, or threatening numerous nobles, government officials, civil servants, and household servants. Santaz also exacted funds from the populations of Laurasia Prime, Caladaria, Darcia, Charasia, Americana, and the other Purse Worlds, increasing his wealth. The presence of foreigners at the Laurasian court and in the Laurasian military enraged the Laurasian populace, who now looked for another savior to deliver them from the regime of oppression.

They found that savior in the clergyman Joasaphus, the saintly and kind Archbishop of Caladaria, who was firmly opposed to all that was transpiring. Joasaphus, using his influence within the Church, convened a secret assembly of prominent Laurasians at the Palace of Caladaria (9-15 December 1140), pledging to overthrow Santaz and his puppet Regent. On 17 December, he launched a formal rebellion against Santaz. Darcia, Clackimaris, the Constantine Cluster, Charasia, Augis V, Ralina Vixius, Katherine, Elizabeth, and Rebecca quickly defected to the side of the Archbishop (18-22 December 1140), expelling the units of Santaz. On 24 December, the Archbishop secured the support of the majority of the Laurasian magnates, and two days later, the allegiance of Laurasia's vassal states. Santaz saw his position disintegrate rapidly. On 26 December, the garrison of Laurasia Prime erupted in rebellion against the Regent and his Rebeccan puppet-master. Santaz and his units lost control of most of the city of Christiania, the satellites, and the Laurasian moons, retreating into the recesses of the Celestial Palace.

There, the Rebeccan General ordered the brutal slaughter of many of the young King Honorius' associates and friends, in the presence of their young master. Honorius, who himself was humiliated and insulted by the Rebeccan, thus suffered a devastating loss and was permanently scared emotionally by his experiences. On 28 December 1140, Santaz and his units were finally cornered and captured in the King's Throne Room. Two days later, Joasaphus himself arrived on Laurasia Prime. The venerable Archbishop, who was received with acclaim by the population, ordered for the summary execution of Santaz and his men (31 December 1140). Ethayasan however, recognized as merely a puppet by the Royal Council, was simply deprived of his titles and banished to his estates on Katie, where he eventually died on 17 May 1156.

Then, on New Year's Day 1141, the Archbishop of Caladaria summoned a session of the Royal Council, the leading civil, ecclesiastical, and military officials, the nobles, the military commanders, the district and regional governors, coordinators, and agents, and the Officers of the Royal Household. The Archbishop explained how it was necessary for a "strong and able gentleman among our ranks," to restore stability to the Laurasian State and ensure the successful conclusion of the Laurasian Regency. The Archbishop himself requested only for a "higher position in the Church, so that he may be able to dispense advise to the new ministers of His Majesty's Government." Two days later, the Laurasian nobleman, Eusebius Betakasius, who had served in the Royal Bureaus of Correspondence, Court Proceedings, and Royal Decrees, and was respected for his honesty, wisdom, and administrative skills, was unanimously selected by the Royal Council as the next Regent of the Stellar Kingdom of Laurasia. Betakasius took the oath of office, and in his speech to the Royal Council, his first as Regent, promised to govern over the Kingdom "with moderation in judgment, charity to the needy, and fairness to all." On 8 January, Joasaphus was unanimously selected as the new Pope of the Almitian Church of Laurasia. He was formally enthroned in a lavish ceremony on 12 January.

King Honorius was presented to the people from the balcony of the Celestial Palace on 16 January, thus initiating a custom which was to be followed, upon the accession of a new monarch, until the time of Seleucus the Victor. For nearly another year, Laurasia remained under the administration of Betakasius and Joasaphus, who were acknowledged as the effective co-rulers of Laurasia. Betakasius applied himself to reorganizing the Royal Court, reviving the finances of the Laurasian Treasury, and repairing the damages inflicted by Santaz and by the prior Regents. By the decree of 17 January 1141, Betakasius repealed all laws which had been enacted since 1138. Five days later, he formally pardoned all of those who had been convicted unfairly by Regent Elena. The deceased Admiral Claudius received a formal exoneration and his body was returned to his family, who had him buried in the Cemeteries of Caladaria. In February, the Regent conducted a extensive tour throughout the Kingdom, traveling as far afield as Leopoldia, Colsonia, and the outskirts of Laurasian territory with the Venasian Khanate. In March, the Pope issued a formal absolution for all those citizens who had suffered under previous regimes, with only the prior Popes and those others mentioned being excluded. By April, the Security Services had been dismantled, and all mercenaries were dismissed from the military service. Prosperity returned again to the Kingdom's worlds, and hope with it.

By the middle of 1141, however, new issues were arising for the Stellar Kingdom of Laurasia. It must be remembered what had happened to Dosrios and Princess Baslai. Safa Giray of the Kazanian Khanate, who had never believed the official Laurasian explanation on the cause of his sister's death, became determined to find out what truly happened to her. He also wished to find a excuse to launch campaigns against the Stellar Kingdom of Laurasia, to reassert his khanate's position and recover strongholds lost to the Laurasians. Ever since January 1139, the Kazanian Khan had been engaged in a secret rearmament effort, with shipyards at Massanay, Sassanay, Cibourney, Kazan itself, Vindictoria, Santayana, Clabourne, and Roselary, among other worlds, having produced large numbers of cruisers, destroyers, dreadnoughts, and carriers for the Kazanian Navy. At the secret military bases of Laronn, Sheryl, and Quanna, the Khan had amassed a considerable army, managing to keep this a secret from the Laurasian Intelligence Agency. He also had extended diplomatic overtures to the Khan of the Venasian Khanate, Sheikh Haydar, who had seized the throne from Abdul-Rahman on 17 May 1138 and had him executed.

Sheikh Haydar also wished to exert his position at the expense of the Laurasians, wishing to control the Schauerian strongholds which Laurasia had acquired. On 19 May 1141, the Venasian and Kazanian Khanates signed the secret Pact of Leady, by which they pledged each other complete military assistance against Laurasia. Five days later, the agents of the Kazanian Court at the Laurasian court acquired information about the true circumstances of his sister's death. With this information in his hands, Safa Giray decided to proceed further. On 27 May, he sent a message to the Laurasian Court, revealing his knowledge about the circumstances of his sister's death. Calling it a "shameful occurrence," the Khan then stated that the Laurasians had "broken the terms of civility." Although Regent Betakasius and Pope Joasaphus offered to pay a financial indemnity to the Kazanian Khanate on the matter, Safa Giray became determined to "avenge the insult."

On 3 June 1141, Safa Giray formally renounced the overlordship of the Stellar Kingdom of Laurasia and issued a declaration of war against the Laurasian Government, citing his intentions to "gain justice for his sister and expand the dominions of his khanate." Two days later, Sheikh Haydar of the Venasian Khanate issued a formal declaration of war against Laurasia, launching military units from Ruttum, the Matriarchal Worlds, Venasia Secondary, Monderon, and Permi. Kazanian military units, which had been engaged in a intensive series of military practices and exercises, and were provided with the most advanced technology available to the Kazanian Government, launched a series of swift offensives against the Laurasian strongholds in the Kazanian Khanate. The Regent and the Pope were not military strategists, and the purges of Elena had destroyed many officers who could have organized a immediate resistance. Leopoldia was conquered (4-9 June 1141); followed by Big Twinny (10-15 June 1141); Deanna (16-21 June 1141); Michael (22 June 1141); Wendy (25 June 1141); Coen (27 June 1141); Alexandra (29 June 1141); and Rebecca (1-5 July 1141). The Dasians of the Venasian Khanate, in the meantime, had conquered Colsonia (3-5 June 1141); destroyed the garrison of Archleuta (6-10 June 1141); and scattered a Laurasian force in the Battle of Smithia (11-16 June 1141).

Selena was then conquered (17-19 June 1141), while the Decapolian systems were seized (22 June 1141). On 24 June, a Venasian-Kazanian force stormed Schaueria Prime, and there, the Venasian Khan installed a new Schauerian Grand Prince, Sadaris, who agreed to join the war against Laurasia. During Jul, the Laurasians managed to blunt offensives directed at Hammenor, Dorothy, Hordania, Compost V, and Mumbraine. In that same month, however, Safa Giray made major advances. He conquered Reese in a surprise offensive (6-10 July 1141); devastated Nystadia (11 July 1141); seized Nezbit (12 July 1141); and isolated Laurasian garrisons on Tommy, Arias, Katie, Meaganian, and Chandlier (13-19 July 1141), before conquering Ipsus V (20-22 July 1141). The Regent, who was distressed by the losses, now compensated for his military ignorance by his vigorous efforts to assemble a new Laurasian fleet and to find a commander who could lead the Laurasians to victory. He found that commander in Flavius Aetius (1099-1149), a Laurasian brigadier general and Lord of Carson who had served in the militaries of the Venasian Khanate, the Crimeanian Khanate, and Amelianian Cordania.

Flavius Aetius thus was aware of Dasian strategies and military organization, and he decided to use this knowledge to his advantage. Remembering on how Honorius the Liberator had used strategies of deception, ambush, and hit-run offensives to liberate the Laurasian Worlds from the Dasian Yoke, Aetius decided to replicate these strategies to expel the Dasian hordes from Laurasian territory. As such, he blunted the Kazanian offensive against Rebecca (25 July 1141); obtained a victory in the Battle of Martina Mccasia (26-29 July 1141); and destroyed the Kazanian foothold on Thasianas (1-4 August 1141). He then harried the Kazanian bases of the upper Rebeccan Galactic Trade Route, securing Ayaliana (5-9 August 1141) and cutting off the supply lines to occupied Briannia. Briannia itself was besieged and recaptured on 12 August 1141. Safa Giray however, managed to launch a surprise offensive against Murphy, Duros, and Kulikovo (13-19 August 1141), all of which fell rapidly to his forces. Laurasian units at Saray, the Prelone Asteroid Belt, Senna Major, and Anusia were thus isolated, but Flavius Aetius prevented Venasian task forces from progressing into the Central Core. He now took advantage of the distraction of the Khans by their military campaigns in the Eastern Core. The Laurasian Commander launched a series of offensives from Rebecca, Chancia, Katherine, and Caladaria into the Kazanian Khanate (20-25 August 1141).

Deanna was reconquered (26 August 1141); followed by Michael (27 August 1141); Wendy (28 August 1141); and Coen (1-2 September 1141). The Laurasians then destroyed a Kazanian squadron in the Battle of Sassanay (3 September 1141) and drove off Kazanian units at Trent (4-9 September 1141). Safa Giray was now forced to divert units from his other campaigns, although he could not prevent a Laurasian advance towards Kazan and the systems of the Royal House. Flavius Aetius thus reconquered Murphy (10-11 September 1141) and secured Mumbraine (12 September 1141), before defeating the Venasians in the Battle of Decapolia Major (13-18 September 1141). By the end of September, Hammenor, Ipsus V, Compost V, Hordania, and Dorothy had all been recovered. Then on 6 October, the Laurasians won the Battle of Wesamarmia, forcing the Dasians to retreat from Schaueria Prime. On 11 October, Kazan itself was stormed by a Laurasian expedition, with Safa Giray being forced to flee to Alexandra and Athanelia. Laurasian units then conquered Monderon (13 October 1141) and harried the Venasian Cluster, threatening Nickiss, Permi, and Ruttum. On 17 October, Venasia Secondary was plundered by a Laurasian force, followed in quick succession by Tessa (22 October); Paige (24 October); and Adaeline (29 October). Venasia Prime itself was threatened. Sheikh Haydar, who had gained nothing by his involvement in the conflict, was forced to sue for peace on 3 November. By the Treaty of Selena, signed on 7 November, the Stellar Kingdom of Laurasia acquired Permi and the regions of the Venasian Fortifications along the Rebeccan Galactic Trade Route. Sheikh Haydar terminated his alliance with the Kazanian Khanate and agreed to pay a considerable tribute.

Deposition of Betakasius and Joasaphus by Flavius Aetius; The Regency of Aetius; Macarius becomes Pope of the Almitian Church; End of the Regency of Aetius; Macarius becomes prevailing influence in state; The Education of Honorius the Terrible; Laurasian Reverses in the Kazanian Khanate; Honorius the Terrible's Coronation and the beginning of his effective Reign (1141-1147)

It was another month after this treaty had been signed before Safa Giray, whose forces were weakened by constant skirmishes and battles with the Laurasians at Leopoldia, Bristalai, Alexandra, and Frederickslandia, finally requested for a end to the war. The Treaty of Vindictoria (10 December 1141), resulted in the Kazanian Khanate restoring the strongholds and worlds it had conquered to the Stellar Kingdom of Laurasia. Safa Giray agreed to once again acknowledge the King of Laurasia as his overlord. He also agreed to pay a substantial tribute, to limit the size of his military forces, and to formally accept the official Laurasian explanation for the death of his sister. Although the war had ended with a Laurasian victory, many within the Laurasian Court were dissatisfied with the peace treaties. The Regent and the Pope had insisted on relatively generous terms for the defeated Khanates, refusing demands that both khanates be completely dismembered and annexed into the Stellar Kingdom. Pope Joasaphus, in his sermon of 13 December 1141 on the end of the war, declared that "the annexation of the territory of the two khanates would strain our resources and paint us in the cloak of a full-scale aggressor, thus inviting enemies to unite against us." The Regent backed this up, issuing a formal proclamation on 16 December which said that "the Kingdom of Laurasia has no intention to completely destroy any of her neighbors." Flavius Aetius, who had favored annexation, began nursing a grudge against the Regent and the Pope, believing that they had denied him the fruits of his victory. He began contemplating a conspiracy to dispose them from their positions, being encouraged by the nobleman Narses Adeolatus, Count of Reese.

Adeolatus was greedy for power and wealth, and believed that the current state of affairs in the Royal Laurasian Government prevented him from attaining that wealth. These men held constant secret meetings on Ralina Vixius, and on 23 December, arrived at the conclusion that Betakasius and Pope Joasaphus should be removed from their positions. Gathering their adherents and a corps of Royal Guardians, the two men planned out their coup. On 29 December, the Regent received a report about rumors concerning plans against him, but believed them only to be mere rumblings and dismissed them as a serious threat. The Pope too, refused to believe that he was in any danger, saying merely that "the Lord Almitis will protect me and the Church from any harm which man could conjure." These thoughts, however, were soon completely shattered. On 3 January 1142, Aetius and his retinue led their coup against the Regent and the Pope. Quickly securing the loyalty of the Laurasia Prime Security Force, Aetius burst into the Council Chambers and arrested the Regent, who was dragged out by the Guardians. The Pope himself was disturbed from his bed by noise in the rooms of his quarters, and was soon seized, bound in chains, and hustled out by Adeolatus. The following day, both Betakasius and Joasaphus were imprisoned on Windowia Photis.

A hastily summoned session of the Royal Council declared them both to be "traitors of the State" and formally deprived them of their positions. That same session formally acknowledged Aetius as the Regent of the Stellar Kingdom of Laurasia. Joasaphus lived as a prisoner until his death on 27 July 1155, aged 75. Betakasius, on the other hand, was butchered by his bodyguards (10 January 1142), after barely a week in prison. With this, Aetius had asserted himself as the new ruler of Laurasia. He quickly installed a oppressive and tyrannical regime over the Laurasian State. Practicing a policy of gluttony and blatant nepotism, the Regent elevated his family members to major positions in the Government. Virtually all of the Royal Councilors were dismissed from office, deprived of their ranks and titles, and imprisoned, exiled, or executed. The Regent, in a series of decrees and charters during February and March 1142, granted his favorites estates, titles, honors, and governmental positions. His two younger brothers, Andrew and Peter Aetius, both became Counts and acquired substantial influence in the government. His mother, Countess Theodosia Adeolatus of Tommy (1074-1147), was elevated in rank above all other women and given a position at the Laurasian court, as Chamberlain of His Majesty's Household.

Aetius did however, submit to a wish of the people by looking after the matters of the Almitian Church. On 16 March 1142, a conclave of the leading ecclesiastical officials selected the popular Archbishop of Scout, Macarius (1082-1163), as the new Pope of the Royal Almitian Church. Macarius was a prominent Laurasian writer, theologian, scholar, and philosopher, having published numerous theological and psychological treatises over the preceding twenty years. These had included Almitis in the Perspective of Galactic Affairs and The Examination of the Minds of Sentients. Regent Elena had appointed him as Archbishop of Scout on 17 February 1135, a position he had served in with effectiveness, vigor, and determination. All of this thus recommended him for the highest position within the Church. Macarius was formally enthroned as Pope on 20 March. He declared his support for the Regent and his family, and affirmed that any who attempted to challenge their position would be "excommunicated by the full force of the Church." He was to prove a longer-lasting Pontiff then his immediate predecessors, remaining the head of the Almitian Church until his death on 12 January 1163. For almost three years, the Aetians dominated Laurasia. The Regent and his brothers tolerated no resistance to their rule, and they began a series of arrests, trials, interrogations, imprisonments, executions, and banishments similar to those which had been conducted by Regent Elena. In April 1142, the Regent signed a Privy Letter authorizing for the establishment of the Civil Service.

The "Civil" Service was in fact a intelligence and secret police organization, responsible for exposing, harassing, and punishing the enemies of the State. The Service was, by successive decrees (those of May 11, June 12, and July 19, 1142) granted extensive authority over the private lives of the people, being allowed to bypass normal judicial proceedings, declare martial law, and enforce punishments without the benefit of a trial or proceeding. It is estimated that nearly six million Laurasians in the Purse Worlds were arrested and executed by the Secret Service from April 1142 to January 1145. Besides this, the Regent imposed excessive taxes to support his lavish lifestyle. The planetary tax was extended by the decree of 9 August 1142, while a new levy, the graduated annum, was imposed on all nobles, effective from 11 September 1142. In January 1143, a group of nobles headed by Lord Constantine Exiguus of Katie (1091-1148) submitted a series of petitions to the Regent, requesting for him to "reconsider his financial policies towards the subjects which you rule in the name of the King." The Regent responded to these petitions by ordering for the arrest and imprisonment of those who had drafted them.

Seeking to maintain their position, the Regent and his brothers also sought to curry favor with the young King. Honorius, who was only twelve years old at the end of 1142, had been a witness to all of these events, which continued to have a impact upon his mind. Nevertheless, Aetius sought to impose a positive impression of himself upon the boy King. He arranged for the King to have the best tutors possible. The chief tutor of the young King was Trajan Ullipidus (1101-76), who was the son of one of the secretaries of Honorius the Liberator, and who had graduated from the University of Laurasia Prime in 1125 with degrees in Laurasian, social studies, and mathematics. Ullipidus had then become a professor at the University of Caladaria, serving in that position for ten years until 1135, when Regent Elena appointed him to be one of the scholars of the Royal Household. In that position, Ullipidus had helped to organize the Royal Library, and was responsible for the annotation and compilation of texts in the Computer Systems of the Celestial Palace. He had become known for his energy, vision, and intelligence.

Ullipidus, however, was also greedy, selfish, and arrogant, and as such, was willing to support any noble who in turn aided his career. Ullipidus had thus supported Aetius, who rewarded him by appointing him the chief tutor for the King in February 1143. Ullipidus got along well with his royal pupil, and taught him many of the elements of literature, textual analysis, and language comparison. It was from him that Honorius derived his great oratory skills, which he used throughout his reign. Besides the education efforts, Aetius also tried to control the young King's household and met many of his desires. He supplied the King with anything he wished, appointed servants who, although they were loyal to the Regent, nevertheless pandered to the King's needs, and encouraged the boy to involve himself in a wide range of activities and sports.

By the latter months of 1144, however, other events were beginning to transpire which were to topple the Aetians from dominance in Laurasia. Macarius, who had at first been a loyal supporter of the Aetians, eventually came to despise them. He believed that they should not attempt to build up a family oligarchy, and he held firmly to the belief that the Laurasian monarch was, as a autocrat, entitled to the absolute loyalty of all. The Pope came to understand that Aetius was trying to organize matters so that he would retain substantial influence after the King was to come of age. As such, Macarius began formulating secret plans against the Aetians. He had to tread carefully, knowing that the Civil Service was monitoring anything which could harm the positions of the Regent and his associates. The Pope thus embarked on a subtle strategy, hinting to the young King that the rule of "undesirables" went against "the fabric of autocracy." The King, who was entertaining his first notions of power, listened to these. Ullipidus, who saw even greater opportunity for advancement if Honorius ruled by himself, also encouraged the King, giving him hints in his lessons that the Aetians should not be allowed to rule forever. The King then began to gather his friends and supporters into a force, preparing them by various exercises and by secret meetings. Ullipidus helped him to keep these a secret from the Service and the Regent.

Finally, the young King was ready. On 29 December 1144, Regent Aetius and his brothers, Counts Andrew and Peter, were commanded to present themselves before the King in the Royal Court. The Regent attempted to ignore the summons, pointing out that as Regent, he still wielded the necessary authority. The Pope however, urged him to oblige, as he said that a "express violation" of the King's order would threaten the fabric of the autocratic system. Once in the King's presence, the Regent attempted to act in a foolish and pompous manner, requesting why His Majesty was "performing a act beyond his years." At this, Honorius flew into a rage, and accused the Regent of "inflicting injuries upon my Royal Person, extorting from the Laurasian State and my loyal subjects, and engaging in such horrific abuses that any man would be appalled." After saying this, Honorius ordered for his guards to arrest the Regent and his brothers. He set an example by commanding for Andrew and Peter to be both executed in a horrific manner. The Regent attempted to protest, but was overridden. The Regent's brothers were ripped apart by the King's guards, who, according to Baron Momompahalaus, "were among the most brutal, savage, and bloodthirsty men then in service in the Galaxy." Nevertheless, Honorius decided to spare the Regent himself, who was formally deprived of his position and stripped of his honors, estates, and titles on 1 January 1145. Two days later, the former Regent was imprisoned in the Secret Yards of Ipsus V, eventually dying there a broken man on 21 February 1149.

Following the deposition of Flavius Aetius from his position, Pope Macarius became the King's new leading minister. Macarius was to retain a major influence upon the King for the remainder of the decade. Macarius focused his attention on reversing all of Aetius' measures, repealing his decrees, and compensating those who had suffered injustices at the hands of the Regent. He was, however, far more subordinate to the King then any of the previous Regents, and he encouraged Honorius to continue accumulating more information about the cares of state. Under his watch, the King's political education was intensified, while the young King himself embarked on a extensive tour of his dominions from April to June 1145. He visited Katherine, Darcia, Caladaria, Americana, Charasia, Augis V, Clackimaris, the Constantine Cluster, Scout, Mercedes, Janesia, Dearton's Gateway, Courdina V, Gordasis, Metallasia, Conservan, Reoyania, Condtella, Dramis, Clancia, Teth, Goss Beacon, Marshia, Meaganian, Rebecca, Briannia, Deanna, Leopoldia, Coen, Wendy, Michael, Ipsus V, Arias, Katie, Reese, Meaganian, Colsonia, Archleuta, Smithia, Decapolia Major, and numerous other major star systems.

The King also visited with the new Grand Duke of Schaueria Prime, Anasolius, with Khan Safa Giray in the Kazanian Khanate, and with King Lathasold of Goldaria, although he did not visit the Crimeanian Khanate, due to Bodi Aligh's campaigns there. Shortly after Honorius returned to Laurasia Prime on 26 June 1145, however, further events transpired in the Kazanian Khanate. Shahghali, who had remained at Durglais since his deposition from the Kazanian throne in 1121, was eager to regain his throne. He now received support from Pope Macarius, who was determined to consolidate firm Laurasian dominance over the Kazanian Khanate. On 1 July 1145, Shahghali, mustering units provided by the Pope at Briannia, Nystadia, and Leopoldia for his use, advanced into the territories of the Kazanian Khanate. Shahghali stormed and conquered Sassanay (2-6 July 1145); destroyed a fleet dispatched by Safa Giray at Amuriana (10-19 July 1145); and then conquered Takachstiania (20-25 July 1145). On 1 August, Safa Giray and Shahghali clashed in the Battle of Tyrone, which resulted in a decisive victory for Shahghali and his forces. Seven days later, Shahghali occupied Kazan and was proclaimed Khan of the Kazanian Khanate for the second time. Safa Giray was forced to flee, seeking refuge at the court of King Attila.

On 12 August 1145, Shahghali signed the Treaty of Kazan with the Stellar Kingdom of Laurasia, by which he submitted all of his decisions to the approval and ratification of the Laurasian authorities. This agreement effectively granted the representatives of King Honorius absolute authority within the Kazanian dominions. Many of the Kazanian nobles, who had long been opposed to Laurasian influence, bitterly resented the Treaty and came to believe that it was within Shahghali's intentions to "bring destruction upon our khanate." On 22 August, the Pope-Regent of Laurasia appointed a new consul to the court of the Khan of Kazan, Desiderius Euapolas (1086-1151), who was instructed to "maintain and insure the extension of His Majesty's interests in these territories." Euapolas immediately embarked upon his mandate. On 26 August, he forced Khan Shahghali to summon a assembly of all the leading nobles, government officials, civil servants, and military commanders in the Kazanian Khanate. At the assembly, the Consul declared that "all that you conduct is now under my supervision" and forced them to swear a oath of homage to him as "Guardian of the Kazanian Khanate."

A week later, the Consul reorganized the Council of Bazaars, adding forty Laurasian councilors, advisers, and ministers to the body. These men were given preferential rank and privileges over all the Kazanian nobles. On 18 September, Euapolas began issuing grants of estates, gifts, honors, and monopolies to his supporters. Laurasians seized nearly half of the properties possessed by the leading Kazanian magnates. Shahghali himself did nothing to halt these. Instead, he indulged himself in various luxuries, bankrupting the Kazanian treasury with his demands for exotic entertainments, presents, and foods. These tensions now inspired the rise of Qarachai, a leading Kazanian Prince who had himself suffered exactions at the hands of the Laurasian officials. Qarachai was the chairman of the board of Telemanny Armories, one of the leading military technology corporations in the Core Regions at that time. Familiar with military tactics and organization, he thus decided to use the resources of his corporation to assemble a force, to depose the Khan. Warships and "Armory Guards" were assembled at the Armory's factories on Martina Mccasia, Motharay, and Jessa. Shahghali ignored any warnings about threats against his rule.

On 18 November 1145, Qarachai formally raised the standard of revolt against the Khan and the Consul. He swiftly conquered Dalisio (19-21 November 1145); destroyed the Laurasian consulate on Maddie (22-26 November 1145); and crushed a force sent by the Khan in the Battle of Bashirana (27 November-2 December 1145). He then harried Leopoldia, Alexandra, Big Twinny, and Michael (2-9 December 1145), capturing large numbers of captives, disrupting the defenses of the Laurasian garrisons, and weakening the Laurasian military position in the Kazanian Khanate. Qarachai then conquered Methaulsah (3-9 December 1145); ambushed and destroyed a Kazanian task force at Frankistiania (10-13 December 1145); and penetrated to the Rebeccan Galactic Trade Route. On 17 December, the Pope dispatched a Laurasian fleet under the command of Prince Maximian Gobalvius (1088-1155 to reassert the Laurasian position and assist the Khan. Although Gobalvius halted a rebel offensive against Michael (20-22 December 1145), he was unable to prevent the fall of Helen (23-29 December 1145) or the seizure of Orlando (30 December 1145).

On New Year's Day 1146, Wendy was besieged and sacked by Qarachai, who penetrated the planetary shields and destroyed the Laurasian garrisons. Two days later, he seized Coen, and Laurasian fleets at Rebecca, Briannia, Durglais, Chancia, and Elizabeth were placed on alert. On 7 January, Prince Gobalvius advanced against Massanay, Keith, and Desmond, attempting to push rebel units away from the vicinity of the Kazan Capital Region. Although he conquered Keith (7-10 January 1146), the Prince was unable to dislodge the rebel garrison on Desmond. By 19 January, Qarachai had recovered Keith and had forced Laurasian forces to retreat to Deanna and Michael. On 23 January, Shahghali himself attempted a sally from Kazan, but was decisively defeated in the Battle of Bower three days later. The Kazanian Khan could not return to Kazan, as rebel units cut off the Kazan Capital Lane, and he was forced to flee across the Rebeccan Galactic Trade Route.

On 30 January 1146, Kazan itself was captured by Qarachai, who was received as a hero by the population. Five days later, he formally disowned the terms of the Treaty of Kazan and ordered for the execution of all Laurasians in his dominions. At this, Pope Macarius declared a resumption of full hostilities (10 February 1146), and ordered for Laurasian units at Ipsus V, Hammenor, Meaganian, Capital, and Reese to advance northwards. The Laurasians secured Leopoldia (11-19 February 1146) and reconquered Wendy (20-22 February 1146), but could not advance to the Kazan Capital Region. Three months of indecisive skirmishing followed, as Qarachai cleverly managed to halt any further Laurasian advances. Macarius, whose popularity had begun to weaken because of the defeats, now dispatched his nephew, Demosthenes Cleothus (1108-61), to Michael, to take command of a surprise strike at Kazan. On 6 June 1146, Cleothus and his force executed a swift hyperspace jump all the way to Roxuli (which was now a part of the Brestord Kingdom) and then back down to Kazan, employing secret routes discovered by the Laurasians in May.

Kazan was surprised by the appearance of a Laurasian fleet over its shields, and Qarachai, who had believed that the Laurasians would never be able to reach Kazan, was alarmed. The Laurasian force quickly overwhelmed Kazan's paltry defense garrison, and Qarachai himself was captured. On 11 June, Cleothus forced the Khan to sign a charter of abdication, and two days later, Shahghali arrived back on Kazan. Qarachai himself was bound in electromagnetic chains, placed in the prison cell of a transport, and trundled back to Laurasia Prime. He was executed at the Mases Confinement Facility of Jadia on 26 June. Macarius had again reasserted his position, and a series of victorious parades, celebrations, and festivities were held on Laurasia Prime and the other Purse Worlds throughout the middle months of 1146. Safa Giray, however, in the Kingdom of the Brestords, had been building up his military strength. Attila, eager to weaken Laurasia and assert his own influence in Kazanian territory, provided Brestord units to the exiled Khan.

Thus, on 1 September 1146, Safa Giray launched a series of offensives from Roxuli and Abraham, sending his units into Kazanian territory. He conquered Massanay (2-3 September 1146); Sassanay (4-9 September 1146); and Motharay (10-15 September 1146). On 21 September, the fleet of Shahghali was defeated in the Battle of Impania, and six days later, Kazan itself was conquered by Safa Giray, who once again was acclaimed as Khan of the Kazanian Khanate. Shahghali again fled into Laurasian territory. On 28 September, Macarius declared war against the Kazanian Khanate. Laurasian units at Wendy, Michael, Leopoldia, and Big Twinny now attempted to advance against Kazan and the Capital Trade Line, but were defeated by a Brestord force dispatched by Safa Giray (1-5 October 1146). On 11 October, the Laurasians suffered a further defeat in the Battle of Helen, and the world fell to the Kazanian Khanate. Michael and Coen were seized four days later. Safa Giray was unable to advance any further, and after a month of indecisive skirmishes, he requested for a peace agreement. The Treaty of Hannah, signed on 16 November 1146, resulted in the Pope-Regent recognizing Safa Giray as Khan of the Kazanian Khanate. In turn, Safa Giray allowed the Laurasians to retain their strongholds and holdings in Kazanian territory. Following this defeat, King Honorius, who was growing increasingly restless and desirous of assuming sole authority on his own initiative, began acting in a more assertive manner. The Pope, who wished to maintain his positive standing with the King, decided to support his ambitions and began making plans for the King's coronation.

On 25 November, the Royal Council announced that the coronation of Honorius as King and Autocrat of All the Laurasians would take place on 16 January of the following year. The Council established a special coronation commission to take care of the arrangements. No expense was spared for the coronation, which would cost $579.6 million denarii. The Holonet Network was programmed so that it would transmit the proceedings of the coronation throughout the Kingdom. Special constructs were established on the world, while officials engaged in training sessions and all the formal arrangements were made. Finally, on 16 January 1147, the most lavish coronation in Laurasian history up to that time took place. The young King, wearing his royal robes, was conducted by the Pope and the royal officials of the household along the route into the Westphalian Cathedral, a ninth-century edifice chosen as the location for the coronation ceremonies. Entering the Cathedral, the King received the blessings of the Pope, which was followed by the religious celebrations. Following a further benediction and a humble reciting of the Royal Oaths, the King crowned himself with the Royal Crown of Laurasia, which had been commissioned by Honorius the Liberator in 1086. This crown was to remain in use until 1354, when it was replaced by Antiochus the Great with the modern Great Imperial Crown of Laurasia. With this ceremony thus concluded, the Pope formally declared the King to be of age to govern, and he received the oath of allegiance from his subjects.

Conspiracies in Kthexox; Struggle between Penda and Oswald; Defeat and Death of Oswald; Penda's Dominance of the Galactic Borderlands (1139-1145)

Having thus discussed the affairs of Laurasia and the Dasian Khanates of the Outer Borderlands, attention must be paid to the situation in the Amelianian Kingdoms. Following the end of the Brestord campaigns against the Amelianian Kingdoms in March 1139, as a result of the Treaty of Rasdalla, Penda shifted his attention to other matters. Over the remainder of 1139, the King of Marcia focused his efforts on rebuilding his military forces, reorganizing his governmental bureaus, and cementing relations with the other Amelianian Kingdoms. Penda was determined to insure that Marcian dominance in the Galactic Borderlands would allow for a more effectual defense in the future. Accordingly, Penda signed the Treaty of Oswrany with King Cyneglis of Hengist (16 April 1139), by which he secured rights to establish Marcian garrisons at Ung, Kumong, Karlong, Ba'dasai, Donna, Teller, and Latrice. In exchange, the King of Marcia agreed to provide the Hengistan monarch with financial subsidies and immediate military assistance in case of a renewed attack by the forces of Attila. Eadbald of Kthexox signed the Treaty of Francia with the Marcian King (22 April 1139), which provided for similar arrangements. Oswald of Nordania, who was secretly crafting plans to reassert the position of his kingdom over that of Marcia, signed the Treaty of Nicole with Penda (15 May 1139), to dispel any rumors about those ambitions. The remainder of 1139 was thus a tranquil year. That tranquility was disrupted however, when Eadbald, after a long illness, died on Ivanna (13 February 1140). At the time of his death, the King of Kthexox had left no will or testament as regards to how the succession in his kingdom would be handled. He had left two twin sons, Eormenred and Eorcenberht. Theoretically, according to the Amelianian laws of inheritance, Eorcenberht should have acceded to the throne of Kthexox, as he was the older of the two brothers by about twelve minutes. Amelianian royal custom, however, declared that siblings born on the same day shared the same position of precedence, and as such, should accede to the throne jointly.

Eormenred, however, believed that he was the rightful King of Kthexox. Although he was arrogant and selfish, Prince Eormenred was nevertheless respected for his great administrative abilities, his tact, and energy. Eorcenberht, on the other hand, was a weak, mentally challenged, and helpless Prince who preferred books to battle, something which was considered to be a shame among the militarily-oriented Amelianians. As such, Eormenred immediately gained the advantage. On 16 February 1140, a conference was convened on Camerania, attended by the leading nobles, military commanders, and magnates of Kthexox, alongside various household officials, governors, and members of the Royal Family of Kthexox. This conference, which was dominated by the supporters of Eormenred, quickly declared him to be King of Kthexox. Eormenred was raised upon the shields of his men and given the formal "hail of allegiance" thereafter. Upon establishing himself on the throne of Kthexox, Eormenred immediately pursued policies so as to secure himself and eliminate his enemies, those who had sought to control the state by elevating Eorcenberht to the throne. Firstly, the new King ordered for the arrest and confinement of his brother (19 February 1140), announcing that his mental infirmities were "the curse of the Gods" and declaring that his brother could never live as a average nobleman. Two days later, Eormenred ordered the arrest, torture, and execution of 30 leading Amelianian magnates, including Count Aethelred of Maorann, Count Alfred of Madathania, and Lord Eorpwald of Allicae. Then on 5 March, he formally established the "Secret Chancellory," a intelligence agency and secret police force which would be responsible for pursuing and persecuting the enemies of the King. Throughout March, the Kingdom was engrossed in a atmosphere of fear and suspicion, as Eormenred acted brutally towards those perceived as a threat to his interests.

One noble, Earl Edgar of Wessar, who had served as Earl Marshal under Eadbald and was acknowledged as one of the leading nobles in the Kingdom of Hengist, became determined to depose Eormenred and install "the rightful King" upon the throne of Hengist. Edgar, although he was patriotic and fiercely loyal to the interests of his kingdom, nevertheless believed that he could not accomplish his goals by his own effort. As such, the Earl of Wessar sought the assistance of another Amelianian king. He turned to Penda, believing that securing the assistance of the most powerful Amelianian monarch would be a logical step. Penda had, after all, constantly expressed his respect and admiration of Kthexox, and in November 1139, had declared that Kthexox was "important to the framework of Amelianian powe." Penda however, saw the civil war in Kthexox as his opportunity to incorporate that dominion into his kingdom. Thus, when he received the plea of Edgar on 11 April 1140, he was more than pleased to accept. Four days later, Penda issued a formal diplomatic proclamation from his court on Marcia Prime, which was addressed to his fellow Amelianian kings. In this message, he declared that "the welfare of Kthexox" was a concern to all the kingdoms. He urged Eormenred to abdicate and to surrender the throne to its "rightful heir." Eormenred at first tried a series of other measures to answer the message, claiming in a communique of 16 April that his brother and father both "wished for him to be in possession of the honorable kingdom."

Five days later, he even produced a document, alleged to have been signed by Eadbald on 26 December 1139, which had named "my venerable and honorable son, the Lord Prince Eormenred," as successor to the throne. Penda however, produced evidence which made the wrong of Eormenred's arrangements, and pointed out that Eadbald had never announced any decision on the succession. On 24 April 1140, the King of Marcia sent a final ultimatum to the court of Ivanna, demanding once again that Eormenred abdicate in favor of his brother. Eormenred this time refused to respond, stating that "the Gods of the Galaxy will justify my claims." On 27 April, Penda declared that Eormenred was a contumacious traitor and that Marcia was taking action in Kthexox "to insure lawful succession." Three days later, Marcian units crossed the border with Kthexox and launched a swift invasion. The rump garrisons on Francia and Camerania were overrun and destroyed (30 April-3 May 1140), while Lwheek was seized (4-9 May 1140). Eormenred himself then led a force against the Marcian invading units at the unstable red supergiant of Destina, but was handed a decisive defeat (15-17 May 1140). Ivanna was then conquered by the King of Marcia (21 May 1140). Eormenred was forced to flee with his remaining units into the Wild Marshes. On 22 May, Eorcenberht was brought from prison and proclaimed King of Kthexox. On 27 May, Penda declared himself guardian-regent of Kthexox and assumed the "responsibilities of governance."

Earl Edgar, who had expected for Penda to install him as Guardian of Kthexox, was enraged by the Marcian King's proclamation. Realizing his mistake in having called in the King of Marcia, the Earl of Wessar now began to draft his own plans for expelling the Marcians and reasserting the complete independence of Kthexox. He decided to tread carefully however, and bid his time so as to muster sufficient military resources. During the three months which followed the Marcian invasion and military occupation, events took place which gave Edgar a pretext for revolt. Penda, dropping his pretense of "friendship" for Kthexox, proceeded to implement a series of administrative, military, and financial measures which greatly angered the nobles, government, and population of Kthexox. On 2 June, the King of Marcia announced that all worlds of Kthexox would be placed under the jurisdiction of "military procurators," who would "represent the interests of His Majesty in Marcia and ensure that the kingdom of Kthexox remain in a state of peace."The procurators were granted absolute jurisdiction within the territories they were assigned to rule. These procurators soon oppressed the populations assigned to them, ushering in a series of blackmails and corrupt bargains which angered the people.

The nobility of Kthexox were incensed by taxes and financial demands forced upon them by the Marcian King's representatives. Edgar took advantage of these tensions, fomenting a series of protests against the Marcians on Marcia, Camerania, and Ivanna in July and August 1140, which displayed the sentiments against their rule. Then on 11 September 1140, the nobleman opened a secret channel of communications with King Oswald of Nordania. Edgar promised to acknowledge Nordanian overlordship if the King of Nordania on his part agreed to allow Kthexox retain internal independence. Oswald agreed to this condition, eager to disrupt Penda's power. Penda had spies planted at Deira, however, and on 22 September, the King of Marcia was informed of the Earl's intrigues. Determined to blunt the plans of the Nordanian monarch and his ally, Penda ordered for the Earl of Wessar to be declared a traitor and criminal (25 September 1140). All of the Earl's estates and properties were confiscated, and Eorcenberht was persuaded to issue a formal Kthexoxian declaration, denouncing any noble or magnate of Kthexox who cooperated with the Earl. Edgar however, evaded capture, and on 29 September, he was received by King Oswald at Deira.

On 3 October, King Penda dispatched a message to the court of Deira, demanding that the King of Nordania terminate his support for the Earl and confirm the predominance of Marcia in the affairs of Kthexox. Oswald however, evaded giving a response to this message, and on 10 October, he reaffirmed his support for the Earl. Penda now declared that Oswald had broken the terms of their previous alliance, and on 15 October, he formally issued a declaration of war. The King of Nordania now had the initiative however, as the Marcian position in Kthexox had become tenuous. On 21 October, King Eorcenberht was deposed from power by a group of Kthexoxian military officers and noblemen, led by Lord Oswiu of Camerania, who had established secret contacts with the Earl of Wessar. Eorcenberht himself was incarcerated in the military stronghold on Kalabria, where he remained until his sudden death on 12 January 1141. On 25 October, the Earl of Wessar arrived in victorious procession back to Ivanna, and formally summoned a session of all the leading nobles, magnates, and military commanders of Kthexox. A day later, Ecgberht, who was the nephew of Eadbald, was formally selected as the next King of Kthexox. He appointed the Earl of Wessar as his Guardian, thus providing the rebel nobleman the position which he had craved.

In the meantime, Nordanian and Kthexoxian naval task forces had cooperated in expelling Marcian garrisons from the territory of Kthexox. By 4 November, the last Marcian force in the territory of Kthexox had been defeated in the Battle of Kaley, and attention now turned to offensives launched by Oswald against Marcian territory. Oswald was determined to regain the lost Nordanian territory in the Rogerian Cluster, Kalbacha, and Rasdalla. On 8 November, he defeated and destroyed a Marcian fleet in the Battle of Lankey IV. Two days later, the outer systems of the Rogerian Cluster were seized, and the Marcian garrisons in the Rogerian Majorian systems were thus brought under severe pressure. Kalbacha Minor was then sacked (13-18 November 1140), inflicting severe damage on the Marcian positions in the region. Penda now hurried from Marcia Prime, and although he managed to halt a offensive against Goriance (19-24 November 1140), he was unable to prevent the fall of Kathy (25-29 November 1140). On 4 December, the inner Rogerian Cluster was finally secured by the Nordanian forces, and Jakarta, Kathy, and the Cosite systems were now threatened. Penda reinforced those worlds and arranged a series of defenses at Ompus Septimia, Illop, Virthrones, and Screnteen. Oswald could not make any further advances, and by the end of the year, a stalemate had ensued. This situation continued during the first two months of 1141, as the confrontations between the Nordanian and Marcian forces were reduced to a series of skirmishes and indecisive skirmishes.

Penda, however, was now planning a decisive counteroffensive against the Nordanian armadas, and he also profited from the continuing support of his vassals in the northern Galactic Borderlands. Cyneglis of Hengist-Cordania resisted Oswald's emissaries, who had offered to concede to the King of Hengist, in the name of their master, the Marcian territories of the Kanians and in Rasdalla. Instead, on 11 February 1141, Cyneglis signed the Treaty of Verdorium with King Penda, reaffirming his alliance arrangements with Marcia and promising to send a force to assist the Marcian King. The King of Lavella, Anna (who had succeeded Eorpwald on 27 January 1136), also reaffirmed his terms of alliance, in the Pact of Pardur, which was signed on 27 February. With these alliances thus secured, and with his forces prepared, Penda launched a counteroffensive in March 1141. He reconquered the Rogerian Major systems (1-9 March 1141); secured Lankey IV (10-15 March 1141); and occupied Kalbacha Minor (16-25 March 1141), before repelling Oswald's offensives against Ompus Septimia, Essie, and Kylarnatia (March-April 1141). On 3 May 1141, the King of Marcia gained a further victory in the Battle of Kathy, followed six days later by the recovery of the Secretary outpost systems. By the end of May, Nordanian forces had been repelled from Marcian territory.

On 5 June, Camerania was secured by a Marcian fleet. Six days later, Francia was conquered, and the Earl of Wessar was forced to pull units back to Ivanna. Oswald then attempted a offensive against Vector Prime (6-13 June 1141), using secret routes provided by his spies. Eventually however, his force was repelled by Penda (13 June 1141), who then destroyed the Nordanian bases of Bernicia, Garancia, and Nicole (14-24 June 1141). On 27 June, Redia was plundered. Then on 1 July, Penda instigated a siege of Ivanna, which lasted until 27 July, when the world finally fell to his forces. The Earl of Wessar managed to flee however, and until September, conducted a extensive guerrilla resistance movement against the Marcians. He was finally captured on 14 September and was taken back to Marcia Prime. The Earl would be executed on 26 September. On 29 September, Oswald sued for peace. After nearly a month of negotiations, the Treaty of Nagosh was signed (23 October 1141). By the terms of this treaty, Oswald recognized the Marcian annexation of Kthexox and promised to acknowledge Marcian overlordship. In return, Penda returned all conquered Nordanian territories to Oswald. The Treaty of Nagosh managed to bring about a tenuous peace between Marcia and Nordania, which was to last until June 1142.

During those months, however, Oswald formulated plans to recover his position. He was now determined to bring Kthexox into his sphere of influence and to limit the power of Marcia. The King of Nordania now searched for other means by which he could strike at Marcian power and obtain the victory which he sought. He soon found this in the civil tensions and unrest which existed on Rasdalla, Kathy, and in the Canite (Kanian) systems. Firmly believing that a coalition with a rebel leader of those regions would help weaken Marcia in times of war, the King of Nordania began to encourage the civil tensions in December 1141, sending secret financial aid and military equipment to rebel movements on Kathy, Kania, and Rasdalla Minor, among other star systems. The Rasdallan noble Rangais soon emerged as the leader of these movements. In a declaration of 17 January 1142, issued to a assembly of Rasdallan magnates and public figures on Kania, Rangais declared his intentions to "liberate our species from the power of the Marcian Kingdom and reassert ourselves as a independent state in the Galactic Borderlands." Penda, when he heard of this declaration, was enraged. The King of Marcia thus decided to focus his efforts against the rebellion. Although his units destroyed rebel fortifications in the Riverite Asteroid Belt (22-27 January 1142), they then suffered a humiliating defeat in the Battle of Patricia I (1-4 February 1142), which resulted in the loss of most of the Marcian battleships and destroyers engaged in the confrontation.

Devily was then secured by Rangais (5-11 February 1142), who then engaged in extensive espionage and ambush operations, harassing the positions of the Marcian forces in the Rasdallan regions. He seized Kathy (1 March 1142) and conquered Barching (2-9 March 1142), before securing Kathy Minor (11 March); Rasdalla (15 March); Sasha VI (16-21 March); and Sockoth (22-29 March). On 5 April 1142, he crushed a further Marcian battlefleet in the Battle of Hidemnia Sauria, which thus left the Canite inner systems exposed to him. Kania had been secured by the end of April, and Marcian units were driven out of the Badlands. Penda, who had thus suffered significant reverses, now concentrated defenses at Ompus Septimia, Marcia Prime, Vector Prime, and at the Gate Solarian Cluster. On 12 May, however, he suffered a setback when King Anna of Amelianian Lavella, believing that the opportunity had come for him to assert himself, rejected Marcian overlordship and asserted himself as a independent monarch.

Realizing that the King of Marcia's position was now extremely weak, Oswald now became actively hostile. On 28 May, the King of Nordania rejected the terms of the Treaty of Nagosh, declaring the treaty to be "a humiliating set of terms which no Nordanian King should ever have to abide by." Then on 4 June, Nordania issued a official declaration of war against Marcia and launched its forces into Marcian territory. Oswald conquered Francia (5-9 June 1142); secured Camerania (12-15 June 1142); and destroyed the Marcian garrison on Ivanna (16-22 June 1142), before repelling a Marcian counteroffensive against Nicole and Redia (23-29 June 1142). On 30 June, he secured Lwheek, and two days later, installed the Kthexoxian nobleman Ecgberht of Ivanna as the King of a restored Kthexox, which was nevertheless under Nordanian overlordship. On 5 July, the King of Nordania signed the Treaty of Bernicia with Rangais, acknowledging the independence of the Rasdallan Imperium. In exchange, Rangais agreed to cooperate with the Nordanian King in all military campaigns against Marcia. On 7 July, the Rogerian Cluster was penetrated and secured by Oswald's forces, who drove Marcian units away from Kalbacha. On 10 July, Oswald executed a surprise offensive in the Hypasian systems, sacking Hypasia Major and seizing the Cordanian bases on Huerta Mongol, Bach Dang, and Van Klep.

Cnyeglis was forced to sign the Treaty of Kelvania with the Nordanian Monarch on 15 July. Then on 17 July, Oswald obtained a major victory in the Battle of Badria, penetrating Marcian defenses and threatening the Gate Solarian Cluster itself. Penda however, was now reorganizing his units, and he took advantage of the overstretched Nordanian supply lines. Using the signals provided by dummy probes, as well as false intelligence information, the King of Marcia lured Oswald and his fleet to the unstable red giant system of Maserania. On 5 August 1142, in the Battle of Maserania, Penda obtained a decisive victory, as his units lured many of Oswald's destroyers and dreadnoughts into Maserania, which engulfed them. Oswald himself barely managed to evade the ploy, but was surrounded by Marcian starfighters. The King of Nordania and his men attempted to resist the boarding parties sent by Penda, but were unsuccessful and were captured. When brought before Penda, Oswald breathed defiance and said that his allies would complete the destruction of Marcia. Penda laughed at this and ordered for Oswald to be tortured, executed, and then dismembered. The King of Nordania's head was sent back on a special relay-transport to Deira the following day.

The new King of Nordania, Oswald's younger brother Oswiu, was angered by the death of his brother. Oswiu was not as militarily skilled as his brother had been however, and he quickly lost the advantage to the King of Marcia. Penda reconquered Badria (6-10 August 1142) and destroyed Nordanian units stationed near the Gate Solarian Cluster. By the end of the month, the King of Marcia had expelled all Nordanian forces from his territories. Establishing a series of elaborate defenses in the Sassi-Ruuk Borderlands, the King then turned his attention to the rebel movements. Employing similar strategies of deception, he secured the Riverite Asteroid Belt (20-25 August 1142) and then reconquered Cania (29 August 1142). On 5 September, Rangais was defeated in the Battle of Kathy Minor, losing the majority of his defensive units. Five days later, Kathy Major was recovered, disrupting rebel supply lines. It was not until 27 September that Rasdalla was secured. Rangais then launched a series of guerrilla raids, attempting to reclaim the initiative. He lost Sockoth however (1-9 October 1142) and was forced to withdraw from Barching (13-19 October 1142). Finally, on 26 October, he was captured in the Rasdallan Badlands. Rangais was trundled on a transport back to Marcia Prime, where he was executed on 3 November. On 6 November, the last of the rebel bases were pacified.

Two days later, after suffering a defeat in the Battle of Afoole, Anna of Amelianian Lavella sued for peace. The Treaty of Denay, signed on 11 November, resulted in the reestablishment of the military and economic arrangements between Marcia and Lavella. On 21 November, Cyneglis, realizing that cooperation with Penda was better for his kingdom then continuing vassalage under Oswiu, also requested peace. The Treaty of Angelica was signed on 25 November. By the end of November, Penda had reconquered Ivanna, isolating the Kthexoxian-Nordanian units on Lwheek, Francia, and Camerania. Francia was subdued on 6 December, but Camerania resisted fiercely, and did not fall until 17 December. Then on 21 December, Ecgberht sent a message to Penda, offering to become his vassal if he recognized the restoration of Kthexox. Penda agreed, and on 24 December, Kthexox signed the Treaty of Tashia with Marcia. On 26 December, Penda conquered Bernicia, Austin, and Rhedita, forcing Oswiu to come to terms. On New Year's Day 1143, the Treaty of Deira was signed, by which Nordania recognized Marcian dominance of Kthexox. Oswiu also acknowledged Penda as his overlord and agreed to pay a sizable tribute.

With these treaties having been made, Penda had reasserted his position as the most powerful of the Amelianian monarchs. From this point onwards, until his death in 1155, the King of Marcia was to be engaged in efforts to expand and retain that position, having to face further threats from some of the other Amelianian kings, as well as renewed invasions by the Brestords. During 1143 and 1144, however, the Galactic Borderlands resided in peace. Attila was as of yet distracted by his campaigns against the Homidinian and Huntite Khanates. Peaceful relations were maintained with the Donguarian Stellar Empire, the Core States, and Ashlgothia. There was little civil dissent in the Amelianian dominions, and any rebellions or uprisings which occurred were relatively minor and were crushed quickly. Penda focused his efforts on expanding and reorganizing his military forces. Determined to learn from his previous mistakes, the King of Marcia studied the strategies of the rebel Rangais. In February 1143, he issued a official communique to his military forces, ordering his generals to update their strategies. Organization, mobility, and precise attacks were now emphasized, and a number of new shock assault, offense, and defensive corps were created. Numerous other corps and divisions were reorganized or streamlined. The Amelianian divisions were vigorously reformed, with much more focus being placed on discipline and professionalism, while the non-Amelianian divisions were placed under strict supervision for signs of any nationalist leanings.

Penda established a series of military academies and data centers in the Gate Solarian Cluster, pouring large numbers of funds into the further refinement and expansion of the Marcian military. On 29 June 1143, however, Cyneglis of Hengist-Cordania died. Upon his death, his eldest son Cenwealh acceded to the thrones of those kingdoms. Penda sent him a message of condolence on the death of his father, and one of congratulations on his own accession to the Hengistan throne. Cenwealh, although he harbored secret ambitions of his own, decided to maintain, for the time being, his father's positive relations with Marcia. On 21 August 1143, his betrothal to Penda's daughter, Ethelburga, was announced. The two were married on 15 September 1143. On 2 January 1144, Nordania, Amelianian Lavella, Kthexox, and Hengist-Cordania signed the Treaty of Kalbacha Minor with the King of Marcia, again acknowledging him as the preeminent ruler of the Galactic Borderlands. Hardly anything of note happened in the Galactic Borderlands during the remainder of 1144, as Attila was engaged in his vigorous campaigns in the Homidinian Khanate.

By February 1145, however, new tensions began to simmer among the Amelianian kingdoms. Cenwealh, as was mentioned above, harbored ambitions of his own for power. He desired to take the position of most powerful ruler in the Galactic Borderlands. Believing that Hengist, which was the oldest of the Amelianian kingdoms, was thus pre-destined to have the predominant position in the Galactic Borderlands, Cenwealh decided to prepare his military forces for a future confrontation with Marcia. He also sought alliances with the other Amelianian kingdoms. King Anna of Amelianian Lavella proved the most receptive to his ventures. On 21 February 1145, the two Kings signed the Treaty of Huerta Mongol, promising to offer each other complete assistance "against the forces of the Marcian kingdom and anything which it may attempt against us." Cenwealh now acted in a more assertive manner. In March 1145, he gave orders that his wife, Ethelburga, be watched by the agents of the Amelianian Court of Hengist. Two months later, Cenwealh expanded his army groups and conducted a tour of the shipyards at Hypasia Major, Kelvania, Angelica, Bach Dang, Van Klep, Thang Lang, and Valeris V. Then, in August 1145, the King of Hengist-Cordania ordered for the arrest of the Queen Consort. Ethelburga was accused of corruption, adultery, treason, and greed, being branded as a "traitor to the state of your husband and master." On 17 August, she was formally deprived of her position as Queen Consort and was imprisoned on Karlong. On 25 August, Penda, learning of the fate of his sister through his spies and diplomats, sent a diplomatic communique to Cenwealh, demanding a explanation for what happened to his sister. Cenwealh, however, refused to respond to these messages, and on 3 September 1145, he married Etheldora, the Amelianian Princess of Cordania. Penda, enraged by this, terminated the economic and diplomatic arrangements with Hengist (4 September 1145). Two days later, he declared that Cenwealh was a contumacious traitor and issued a declaration of war against Hengist.

Marcian units and fleets stationed at Kalbacha Major, Rasdalla, Kathy, the Rogerian Cluster, and the lower Melanite Reaches launched a series of offensives into the territory of Hengist-Cordania. The Marcians conquered Hypasia Minor (7-10 September 1145); destroyed a Hengistan armada in the Battle of Huerta Mongol (11-17 September 1145); and conquered Kanjur (20-29 September 1145). Kelvania and Morgania were subdued in October, although Hengistan units successfully repelled a Marcian offensive against Bach Dang and Thang Long. On 3 November 1145, Anna honored his treaty obligations with Hengist and issued a declaration of war against Marcia, sending units into the Canite and Rasdallan Worlds. Although he gained a victory in the Battle of Soari (4 November 1145), he was then decisively defeated by the garrison of Canceria in the Battle of the Cancerian Systems (5-11 November 1145), before forced to retreat from Marcian territory. During that time, Penda himself went forth from Marcia, taking command of the forces arrayed against his enemies. By 25 November, Angelica, Hypasia Major, and Valeris V had been conquered, while the Hengistan units at Cassolar and Van Klep were isolated. Bach Dang was finally conquered on 28 November, followed by Thang Long two days later. On 5 December, the Battle of Trasha Dakai resulted in a major victory for the Marcian armadas, who destroyed a Hengistan armada which was equipped with Lavellan loan technology.

On 10 December, Van Klep capitulated, followed three days later by Song Dhu. Cassolar fell by 16 December. On 17 December, Anna, having suffered severe losses in battle with the Marcians, was forced to sue for peace. The Treaty of Odur (22 December 1145), resulted in Amelianian Lavella recognizing Marcian dominance of Hengist-Cordania. Anna also promised to limit the size of his military forces, to pledge fealty to Penda as a vassal, and to conduct peaceful relations with Marcia in the future. With Amelianian Lavella out of the war, Penda turned all of his attention to Hengist. Latrice and Billy were conquered (17-25 December 1145), while the outer systems of the Muggal Cluster were harried. On 27 December, Cenwealh sued for peace. The Treaty of Ung (31 December 1145), resulted in the Marcian acquisition of the Hypasian systems, Latrice, Donna, Billy, and the reaches of the Galactic Frontier Route. Only the Muggal Cluster remained under the rule of Cenwealh, who was obliged to pay tribute, release Ethelburga from prison, and divorce his wife Etheldora.

Bodi Aligh's Invasion of the Crimeanian Khanate; His Victory and Seizure of the Crimeanian Throne; Attila's Struggle with Penda in the Galactic Borderlands (1145-1148)

Having covered the affairs of the Amelianian Kingdoms and of Laurasia in sufficient detail, attention must again be redirected to the Huntite and Homidinian Khanates. As stated above, Bodi Aligh had begun preparations to launch his long-desired military campaigns in the Crimeanian Khanate. To ensure the success of his ventures, however, the Supreme Commander needed to have right of passage through Kuevian and Ashlgothian territory, and rights to use the military bases and outposts of both those powers, which were stationed along their boundaries with the Crimeanian Khanate. Both Theodoric and Genseric had earlier signed treaties with the Huntite Khanate, recognizing the Supreme Commander's right to assert himself in the Crimeanian Khanate. Neither had granted any rights of passage to him however. Determined to gain benefits from Bodi Aligh's ambitions, both barbarian monarchs decided to demand concessions from the Huntite Khanate. On 7 September 1145, Bodi Aligh dispatched a diplomatic message to King Theodoric on Ashlgothia, and to King Genseric on Shenandoah, requesting "the support of Your Majesties in allowing me to fulfill what must be accomplished within the Crimeanian Khanate." Theodoric was the first to respond, and in a diplomatic declaration on 13 September, stated that he would support the Huntite Khanate only upon the concession, to his authority, of Beverly Hereidu, the Huntite regions of Acamaria, and Roastafaria Minor. On 18 September, Genseric demanded that he be granted Meris, Shepherd, Beharis, and the lower Galactic Trade Route to Iego. Both monarchs also demanded for a extensive annual tribute of $1.7 trillion dataries and a immediate payment of $400.9 trillion dataries.

Bodi Aligh knew that he would not be able to impose his will on either of them, since both had long since become more powerful then the Huntite Khanate. He was also wary, however, of granting them these concessions, believing that they would ask for more in the future. Nevertheless, the Supreme Commander did not want to give up his ambitions of assuming the Crimeanian throne. On 26 September, after several days of deliberations and discussions with Wrangia Althia, Khan Dost, and the Huntite Senate of Hunt Major, the Supreme Commander acceded to the Kuevian and Ashlgothian territorial, financial, and diplomatic demands. A diplomatic congress was opened on Walters on 29 September, and lasted for a month, as the Kuevian, Ashlgothian, and Dasian delegates wrangled over the exact provisions of the agreement. Finally, the Treaty of Walters was produced (2 November 1145). By the terms of this agreement, Genseric and Theodoric granted rights of free passage to Bodi Aligh's military forces through their territories, and allowed the Supreme Commander to use their military bases at Eutagia, Par'say, Bar'say, Way'tosk, Larkin, Greg, and Emily Deuistiania for the duration of the Huntite military campaigns in the Crimeanian Khanate. In turn, the Huntite Khanate seceded Meris, Shepherd, Beharis, and the reaches of the Galactic Trade Route to the Kuevian Kingdom, as well as Beverly Hereidu, Huntite Acamaria, and Roastafaria Minor to Ashlgothia. The Treaty of Walters was ratified by Khan Dost on 5 November, by King Genseric on 10 November, and by King Theodoric on 16 November.

After the Treaty was fully ratified, Bodi Aligh stepped up his preparations. Using the routes that Genseric and Theodoric had granted to the Huntite Khanate for his use, he brought his units to the borderlands of the Crimeanian Khanate (November 1145-January 1146). Sahib Giray, still Khan of the Crimeanian Khanate, had survived a series of civil uprisings, economic issues, and social troubles over the past several years. The organization and quality of the Crimeanian forces had declined, and nationalism had emerged on the part of the Polonians and Galicians. On 2 January 1146, Khan Giray, at his court on Crimean IV, received a message sent by Bodi Aligh. In the message, the Huntite Supreme Commander declared his concern for the "affairs of the Core States" and stated his belief that unless if the Crimeanian throne was united to the Huntite Khanate, the Crimeanian Khanate would not survive and Dasian power in the Outer Core and Industrialized Borderlands would be seriously weakened. Sahib Giray, hearing the message, contemplated abdicating the Crimeanian throne, so as to "saddle another with the concerns of this state." He was soon persuaded by his ministers, however, to resist this affront to his authority. On 5 January 1146, the Khan rejected Bodi Aligh's "offer" and refused to consider his message. Bodi Aligh, having the excuse he needed, issued a declaration of war against the Crimeanian Khanate (10 January 1146) and launched a swift invasion.

Hooper was conquered by the Huntite forces (11 January 1146), followed in succession by Podrac (12 January 1146); Sanegeta (15-17 January 1146); Osriana (20-25 January 1146); George (29 January 1146); and Mormon (1-4 February 1146). Bodi Aligh himself directed the vigorous offensives throughout Crimeanian territory, determined to obtain this new territory for himself. Sahib Giray, moving off Crimean IV with his units, now attempted to halt a Huntite offensive at Nagalia (5-9 February 1146), but failed. Bodi Aligh then conquered Ogla, Meris V, Anthon, and the Systems of the Honorable Ones (10-17 February 1146), driving a wedge in Crimeanian territory along the Kimanian Trade Run. His units failed to subdue Nathaniel however (20-22 February 1146) and were driven from Masar. By the end of the month, Huntite units had penetrated to Horacia and Zennethia, although Sahib Giray managed to repel advance Huntite positions near Polonia, Wronzaz, and Legnica. In March 1146, Bodi Aligh launched a renewed offensive, sacking Lublin and destroying Crimeanian posts on Samoutiz, Kaida, and Dragulli. He then stormed Tursk. At the beginning of April, the Huntite forces conquered Horacia, isolated Zennethia, and harried Donald, although units sent against Nathaniel, Galicia Major, and Crimean IV were repelled. Sahib Giray also reinforced Krasow (4-9 April 1146) and repelled Huntite raids directed at Denver (10-19 April 1146). From then until the beginning of September 1146, a stalemate ensued in the fighting, as Sahib Giray managed to stall any further Huntite offensives.

In September 1146, however, Bodi Aligh received substantial Brestord, Jarjanic, Amelianian, Melorkian, Jageronian, mercenary, Huntite, Sheldonian, Gabriellian, Robertian, and Dasian reinforcements, which allowed him to again take the offensive. Denver was finally conquered (2-11 September 1146), followed by Donald (13 September); Theresa (15-19 September); and Zutagia (22-26 September). Drennan was conquered after a hard-fought offensive (1-7 October 1146), while Sanegeta was secured. Nathaniel was then conquered (10-19 October 1146), while Jared was sacked (20-25 October 1146). On 29 October 1146, the Huntite Supreme Commander destroyed a Crimeanian fleet in the Battle of Bordina, and on 4 November, he seized Pressburg, Cossack, and Legnica, which had been major Crimeanian strongholds in Donguarian space. On 11 November, Galich Majoria was subdued, followed six days later by Voldoromia. Wolbroz was then secured (15-19 November 1146). Polonia itself fell on 25 November 1146. Sahib Giray, now at the lowest point in his fortunes, appealed to his overlord, the Laurasian King Honorius II, for assistance. Honorius and Pope-Regent Macarius, who knew that the Huntite campaigns would just weaken the Dasians further, refused to grant assistance. On 28 November, they dispatched a emissary to Bodi Aligh. On 3 December 1146, Laurasia and the Huntite Khanate signed the Treaty of Senna, by which the Laurasians recognized Bodi Aligh's control of the Crimeanian Khanate. In exchange, Bodi Aligh promised to continue paying Laurasia tribute from Crimeanian resources. On 3 December, Bodi Aligh conquered Benztir V, and two days later, finally stormed and captured Crimean IV itself. Sahib Giray was forced to flee, and was eventually captured at Par'say by the Kuevians (20 December 1146), being executed by the Huntite fleet authorities two days later.

On 25 December, Bodi Aligh formally proclaimed himself Khan of the Crimeanian Khanate, and received recognition from most of the galactic powers with the exception of the Brestords. On 1 January 1147, he formally crowned himself Khan on Crimean IV. Bodi Aligh subsequently turned his attention to establishing a structure of governors and other such officials within Crimeanian territory, so that he could turn his energies back to Huntite affairs. By a series of decrees in February and March 1147, the entire territory of the Crimeanian Khanate was divided into provinces, each of which was granted a viceroy and a military intendant who served as Bodi Aligh's representative for that particular region. A Council of State was also created, which was to handle governmental and administrative affairs while the Khan was absent. Then, on 2 April 1147, Bodi Aligh departed from his new conquests, returning to Jasonia. There, he was greeted with parades, ceremonies, and celebrations staged by the Khan and Wrangia Althia. On 10 April 1147, Bodi Aligh signed the Treaty of Mormon with Ashlgothia and Kuevia, by which rights of limited military access in times of peace to the Crimeanian Khanate was assured for the Supreme Commander and his personal fleet. In turn, Bodi Aligh agreed to pay a annual tribute from Crimeanian resources to both kingdoms, amounting to $50 trillion dataries a year.

King Attila in the Brestord realm, in the meantime, had decided to pursue a further series of military campaigns and adventures. Fueled by his own ambition, and determined to honor his promises to his deceased brother Bletha, the King of the Brestords instigated a rearming program for his military forces in April 1147. His attention was now again fixed on the Amelianian kingdoms. Attila was alarmed by the rapid growth of Penda's power in the Galactic Borderlands. Determined to contain this, the King of the Brestords dispatched a diplomatic emissary to Penda's court on Marcia Prime. King Penda received the emissary and his entourage on 4 May 1147. The envoy stated his master's concerns to the Marcian King and his courtiers, stating that the "great expansion" of Marcian power would not bring peace and security to the Galactic Borderlands. The envoy then claimed that a more "equitable" distribution of territories and resources needed to be made. Over the next several days, he gave several presentations to the Marcian court, proposing that the Muggal Cluster and the Hypasian systems be conceded to the Kingdom of the Brestords, while Marcia would receive Lavella and Kthexox.

Donguaria would be divided equally between the two kingdoms, while Nordania would become a sphere of influence, subject to the actions and control of both. Penda was alarmed by these, and believing that the Brestords were trying to exert themselves over Marcia, he ordered for the arrest and imprisonment of the envoy (11 May 1147). Attila, when he received word of this, declared that Penda had violated the proper channels of diplomatic procedure. He thereafter declared war against Marcia (14 May 1147). The following day, Brestord armadas and armies crossed into Marcian territory. The western Tof Borderlands were quickly secured (15-19 May 1147), while Hypasia Major was conquered by a Brestord fleet (20-24 May 1147). On 26 May, Kelvania and Kanjur were subdued, although Marcian units halted a Brestord offensive against Angelica. On 2 June, Brestord units ranged into the Muggal Cluster, overwhelming Kumong and Ung, although Karlong and Verdorium remained outside their reach. Cenwealh, who thought that being subject to Attila was better than being subject to Penda, sent a offer for peace on 6 June. On 10 June 1147, this offer was accepted by Attila. Two days later, the Treaty of Karlong resulted in Hengist retaining control of the Muggal Cluster, but now as a vassal of the Brestord Kingdom.

On 14 June, Billy was conquered by the Brestords, followed by Teller (15 June); Donna (16 June); Larnelle (17-19 June); and Maya (20-25 June). On 27 June, the Brestord forces drove Marcian garrisons away from the western Galactic Frontier Route, and on 30 June, overwhelmed and conquered Atharian, Bariay, and Shelby. On 2 July, the Marcian fleet of Bach Dang was destroyed, and four days later, Huerta Mongol was secured. By the end of July, Trash Dakai and Valeris V had also been conquered, and Marcian units in the Hypasian systems were thus now seriously threatened. Penda now mobilized forces from across the Galactic Borderlands. He secured Van Klep from further offensives (1-9 August 1147) and launched a counteroffensive at Van Dong (10-18 August 1147), keeping some Brestord units off balance. Attila however, repelled any Marcian offensives against the Muggal Cluster, and reinforced his positions, reorganizing his armadas. In September 1147, he sent a peace offer to Penda, offering to withdraw from the Hypasian systems in exchange for the entire Tof Borderlands, Donna, Billy, Latrice, and the worlds of the Galactic Frontier Route. Penda, knowing that he could not dislodge the Brestord hordes, accepted.

On 9 October 1147, the Treaty of Roger Major was signed, confirming these arrangements. Attila, having expanded his power in the Galactic Borderlands at the expense of the Amelianian kingdoms, returned to Munist on 15 October. He consolidated his gains, reformed his strategies, and formulated plans for further military campaigns. His attention was now again diverted to the Homidinian Khanate, as Tokugaistus began reducing the amount of tribute paid to the Brestords, from August 1147 onwards. Until October, Attila had been unable to deal with this issue, because of his focus on the campaigns in the Galactic Borderlands. But with that war ended, he could now impose himself again on the Homidinian Khanate. On 2 November 1147, Attila signed the Treaty of Munist with the Huntite Khanate, by which he promised to not demand any territorial concessions from the Homidinian Khanate. In exchange for this, Bodi Aligh refrained from intervention in the new conflict.

On 6 November, the Brestord Kingdom issued a declaration of war. Attila's forces hurled from Scanlan, Etti, and Theodore. Mary Lou was besieged and conquered (7 November 1147); followed by Edmundia (10-15 November); Coronadia (18 November); Mackenzia Major (20 November); English Star (21 November); and Jacobs I (22-29 November). Ian, Brlla, Gibbs-to-Lester, and Calms were soon threatened by the Brestord hordes. Tokugaistus now dispatched a force from Chalassia, under the command of his general at arms, the Lacian Dural, to confront the Brestords. Dural ended a Brestord offensive against Gwendolyn (1 December 1147) and secured Markis Prime (2-8 December 1147), although he failed to save Calms (10-15 December 1147). On 18 December, Attila launched a offensive against Homidinia, but his armada was halted at Yutzy by Dural. For the next seven days, the Battle of Yutzy ensued. Ultimately, Attila managed to obtain victory, driving a wedge through the Homidinian starfighter squadrons. The Brestords, however, suffered severe losses. Dural now yielded Homidinia to the Brestords (26 December 1147) but fortified Dion, Brlla, and the upper Rebeccan Galactic Trade Route. In January 1148, Attila requested for a armistice. Tokugaistus, who was also eager for peace, agreed. After two months of extensive negotiations, the Treaty of Ryan was signed on 17 March 1148. By the terms of this agreement, Attila conceded his conquests back to the Homidinian Khanate. In turn, Tokugaistus pledged homage to Attila as his overlord and promised to never again reduce the amount of tribute paid. He also paid Attila compensation for military mobilization efforts and interest payments to cover the monies owned by the Khan to the Brestord King. A peace now descended, as Attila remained at peace with his neighbors for the remainder of 1148 and throughout 1149. In the Core Regions, however, turbulent events ensued.

Honorius' Marriage to Anastasia Cassanova; Favors to the Galinaria Family; Conflagration of the City of Constantinople; Rise of Archbishop Sylvester and Alackavius; Reconstruction Efforts in Constantinople; Establishment of the Consultative Assembly; Legal Codification of Honorius the Terrible (1147-1151)

Having thus mentioned the Core States, we must now turn our attention back to them, especially to the Stellar Kingdom of Laurasia. After his coronation, Honorius II, who was now sixteen years old, became determined to procure for himself a wife and consort, who would give him children, including a Grand Prince who would be the heir to his throne. In this, he was encouraged by Pope Macarius, who believed that the monarch, despite his still relatively young age, needed to be married and sire heirs as soon as possible. Macarius hoped that this would better insure the stability of the throne and continuation of the hereditary succession. As such, following custom which had been established during the Dasian Yoke, the Royal Council issued a proclamation to the subjects of the Stellar Kingdom of Laurasia (3 February 1147), declaring that "His Majesty is in need of a woman, who, by her beauty, fertility, and good traits, will insure the successful continuance of this line." The Council subsequently ordered for a search to be conducted throughout the Laurasian Purse Worlds, to find a acceptable Laurasian woman to become the King's wife and consort. Only noble, gentle, and wealthy families, however, were permitted to send applications. Nearly 1,500 did so. Out of these 1,500, 500 were selected to be a part of the audition process. These women were brought to the Celestial Palace on Laurasia Prime, and each one was interviewed by royal councilors, ecclesiastical dignitaries, military commanders, court officials, and the leading nobles. Then a conclave of the interviewers, the Royal Council, and the Royal Chancellery selected 250 women out of those ranks who were to undergo a series of academic tests, mental evaluations, and physical "fitness examinations," to determine who would be among those presented to the King. Finally, on 5 April 1147, 50 women were selected to be presented to the King. These women, who were attired in lavish royal robes and prepared with costly perfumes and cosmetics, were brought before the King in the Royal Throne Room.

One of these women was Lady Anastasia Leonarida (also known as Cassanova), who was the daughter of Lord Theseus Leonaridus (1090-1149), one of the most respected gentlemen in the Laurasian State. Leonaridus was a veteran of the Kazanian Wars against Safa Giray, as well as of the Second Goldarian War, and had served in the Military Command under the various regents of the 1140s, Regent Elena, and Arasces III himself. Anastasia herself, was, according to renowned Laurasian historian Lady Athena Vassalina, 1st Baroness Vassalina of Krayia (1703-99), in Lives of the Queens and Empresses of Laurasia (1761), "a maiden granted by Almitis, so it seemed to the Laurasians of that time period. She was blessed with a excellent figure and the most exquisite loveliness that a Laurasian man could wish for. She was also possessed with considerable intellectual gifts, with complete perfection of mind, person, and body." Holo-portraits and recordings of Anastasia from the twelfth century, as well as contemporary accounts, news reports, and letters, confirm the Lady's statements. Honorius was said to have been immediately entranced by Anastasia, and to have immediately decided to himself that she would become his wife. Thus, the remainder of the audition process was merely a formality.

After six days of the final stage, during which the King had the opportunity to experience for himself the advantages or favors offered by each woman, he made up his mind. On 12 April 1147, the Royal Chamberlain of the King's Household announced in a official statement that the King had selected Anastasia to be his bride. The two were formally engaged at the Westphalian Cathedral by the Pope two days later, while the other women were returned to their families and compensated financially for their involvement. Then, in a lavish marriage ceremony on 28 April 1147, the King and Anastasia were formally married at Westphalia. The Pope blessed the marriage and declared that it "would be of great benefit to the Laurasian State." Nine days of celebration followed, during which many parades, festivals, banquets, dances, plays, and other events were held. Anastasia however, displayed the maidenly modesty which had lured Honorius to her, and devoted her efforts to assisting the poor, the deprived, and the alien inhabitants of Laurasia Prime.

Honorius, however, was for the first time displaying the severe cruelty which was to dominate so much of his reign. The King, who now wielded autocratic authority in his own right, and who was no longer under the control of a Regent, decided to exploit his powers. He also decided to find nobles to surround himself with, being determined to have not just Macarius and Ullipidus, however much he respected and cared for them, as his advisers. He soon found those new advisers in the persons of his maternal family, the Galinarias. Although the Galinarias were a Goldarian noble family, they had obtained a position for themselves among the Laurasian nobility, thanks in part to Elena, who had during her regency promoted their rise, granted them Laurasian titles and privileges, and taken their advice into consideration. After Elena had been poisoned, the Galinarias managed to remain prosperous under Callos. Dosrios, however, had stripped them of their Laurasian titles, banished them from the court, and imposed surveillance over them, although they retained their Goldarian titles and properties. They had thus remained in limbo until 1147. On 1 May 1147, Honorius exonerated the Galinarias of any charges which had been attached to their name, restored to them all of the properties granted by Regent Elena, and appointed them as his leading councilors.

His two uncles, Yuri and Mikhail Galinaria, were both appointed Princes of the Royal Line, while his grandmother, Anatha Galinaria, was given the highest position of precedence among the Laurasian noblewomen, below only the place held by Queen Consort Anastasia. Anger on the part of the Laurasian population flared against the Galinarias, who began to take advantage of their position. Pope Macarius did not support the King's policy concerning his relatives, but nevertheless continued to denounce those who criticized the monarch. The Galinarias proved themselves to be corrupt, selfish, and greedy individuals, who cared little for the concerns of the people. Honorius showered upon his maternal relatives gifts, honors, estates, privileges, commercial monopolies, propriety hyperspace routes, and special levies from trade, communications, and cultural activities. The King also indulged himself in pleasures at the Laurasian Court, significantly raising the planetary and supply taxes. He confiscated the estates and holdings of those who criticized his policies or expressed doubt about his measures. One incident, on 22 May 1147, was especially repulsive. The seventy officers of Katherine Drive Yards submitted a petition to the King, requesting that he "remedy the measures which are, with such injustice and cruelty, being inflicted upon the population of Your Honorable Dominion." Honorius responded to this by ordering the arrest and execution of all who took part in drafting the petition.

The King's own wife, Queen Consort Anastasia, was disturbed by her husband's actions. She pleaded with him in public to "act in a benevolent manner towards your subjects" and implored him to reconsider his measures. Honorius refused to listen to her, and although he never threatened his wife, he did say to her that "it is out of your place, as a woman, to determine how I should govern my people. Women are those who should confine themselves to the actions of pleasuring the man, producing children, and subordinating themselves to proper authority." At this, Anastasia submitted, and no longer would she beseech her husband. She prayed to the Lord Almitis in private, however, and expressed her concerns to the Pope, hoping that the forces of the Universe would cause her husband to change his heart. A major disaster was to happen, which would indeed change his heart. The city of Constantinople, the second-largest city on Laurasia Prime, had a population of 2.6 billion in 1147 (Christiania, the capital city of Laurasia Prime, had 5.5 billion inhabitants). Constantinople's Industrial District, however, was comprised of workshops and factories which were made of the dangerous material duranium, which, if it was ignited, would become engulfed in a major conflagration of acid. Such a conflagration could decimate all structures within a 50-mile radius and cause damage to those within a 1000-mile radius.

On 12 June 1147, such a conflagration was sparked when a major accident was suffered in the reactor of the Hiramian Processing Plant and Complex, which caused the materials to light up. A general alarm was soon sent out to the Security Force of Laurasia Prime, but the conflagration had already begun to spread through the industrial districts. The robots and droids in the region were decimated by the conflagration, which was especially harmful to machines and devices. Soon, the Financial, Judicial, Commerce, and Market Squares of Constantinople were consumed, and thousands of structures were annihilated. The Security Force set up a quarantine around Constantinople and readied its Emergency Extinguish Platforms, but it was soon discovered that the Platforms did not have the vital materials needed to contain the disaster. This allowed the conflagration to spread further, and it soon reached the Tower of Constantinople. The structure was toppled and sent its debris into space, causing fuel to fall onto the space stations. The space stations suffered severe damage before their repair droids managed to halt the conflagration. Many millions of houses, apartments, condos, townhouses, and high-rise dwellings were destroyed by the conflagration.

During the next several days, the conflagration wrecked havoc to the other quarters of Constantinople and even spread into the Harcourt Valley before repair droids, quarantine droids, and Repair Machines finally managed to impose themselves. King Honorius, who declared a state of emergency, sent orders to the Department of Laurasian Emergencies, commanding for 300 conflagration-proof TX-460 reconstruction droids to be shipped in. The droids finally gained the advantage, although not before the conflagration had completely obliterated the Merchants and Nobles Quarters of Constantinople, leveling nearly 300 noble, gentle, and mercantile mansions, estates, and palaces. When the conflagration was finally brought under control on 27 June, all of Constantinople had been destroyed. Nearly a billion people had died, while another 1.5 billion were now homeless and destitute. Many lower-ranking knights, gentlemen, and barons suffered extensive losses to their financial estates, with many of their resources having gone up in the blaze. The blackened carcass of Constantinople scarred much of the Haustian Continent, and Laurasia Prime assumed a bleak tone. Much commerce was disrupted, while nearly 300 million beings at the Alfa and Salfa Moon Stations had been killed or wounded because of the debris sent up by the Tower of Constantinople.

King Honorius, his court, and the leading nobles decided to depart from Laurasia Prime, so that they would not to have to endure the sight of the disruption caused by the Great Constantinople Conflagration. The King arrived at the Palace of Placenta on Darcia (29 June 1147), and declared that it was to be his temporary headquarters until Constantinople was rebuilt and the planet recovered from its scars. His Majesty did issue various decrees and proclamations, for the recovery of Laurasia Prime from the conflagration. A state of emergency was declared on Laurasia Prime, while the Departments of Health, Transportation, Emergency Security, Welfare and Services, and Royal Administration organized relief efforts for those impacted. A series of temporary residence and relief camps were established, while reconstruction droids, repair teams, and decontamination squads began to slowly work through the ruins of Constantinople. All non-essential traffic to Laurasia Prime was temporarily suspended, while all nobles were ordered to invest 35% of what they normally paid in dues to the state towards the recovery efforts. The people of Laurasia Prime, however, believed that the King had brought the disaster upon himself. Many came to believe that the King and his Government were being punished for their sins. Many ambitious nobles and princes, as well as the higher clergy of the Almitian Church, decided to take advantage of these feelings.

Pope Macarius himself, believing that the influence of the Galinarias was a cause for so many of the troubles within the Laurasian State, decided to involve himself in a conspiracy to remove them from their positions. He spread manifestos and messages among the people of Laurasia Prime, convincing them that the Galinarias needed to be taken care of. Ironically, the Galinarias, attempting to ingratiate themselves with the population of Laurasia Prime, announced that they were going to play a hand in the relief efforts. On 4 July 1147, Princes Yuri and Mikhail arrived in the Chief Quarter of Constantinople with the decontamination and reconstruction teams. After examining the city's precincts and taking note of the damage, they then traveled to the nearest residence camp, located about six hundred miles north of the city limits, in the Varangian Peninsula. A crowd however, had assembled at the contamination camp. The Galinarias attempted to placate them by declaring that they were concerned about the welfare of the people. The crowd, however, which had been led to believe that the Galinarias had been responsible for provoking the conflagration, rose in fury against them. The two Princes were murdered, their heads being severed from their bodies and displayed on electric pikes to those in attendance.

At the Palace of Placenta, the King and his court quaked in fear and apprehension. Honorius was startled and angered when he received word of the fate of his uncles. The King, who was determined to display his autocratic authority, and who was again sent down into a regime of cruelty, ordered for severe measures to be taken against those who had been part of the crowd. On 6 July 1147, a official proclamation of the Royal Chancellory branded the crowd as "a gang of traitors" and ordered for their swift and immediate punishment. Within two days, nearly 3,000 persons had been identified, arrested, and imprisoned. Honorius' wife, Queen Consort Anastasia, was now imploring her husband, in a very fervent manner, to "end your oppression, your cruel regime of matters, against your subjects, and seek reason, by the will of the Lord Almitis." Honorius, however, refused to listen. It was then that someone emerged to make the King see reason. That man was Sylvester (born in 1087), who was the Archbishop of Darcia (since 1131) and Primate of the Household of the Palace of Placenta. Sylvester, who was a pious, determined, and honest man, believed fervently in all that the Almitian Church preached. On 10 July 1147, the Archbishop of Darcia came into the King's presence. Honorius, according to Viscount Monompahalaus, was "awed by the presence of this saintly man. Sylvester knew that the autocrat, with one word, could send him to the execution squad. He was not afraid, however."

Pointing his finger directly at the King, the Archbishop accused him of "bringing the wrath of the Universal Forces upon the kingdom by indulging yourself in a series of undue and severe policies." He then brought forth a copy of the Old Jatherian Scriptures, and read from them a variety of lessons, saying that they were applicable to all and imploring His Majesty to follow them. Honorius now underwent a great change in attitude, as he burst into tears, expressed his sorrow at what he had been inflicting upon his subjects, and extended his hand to Sylvester, who had now become one of his leading advisers. Although Sylvester never became a official government minister, and was never a member of the Royal Council, he nevertheless obtained extensive influence with the King. A Knight of the Royal Court, Alexander Alackavius, who was patriotic, honest, hard-working, and determined, came to the King's notice in September 1147. He did become a member of the Royal Council and was eventually appointed Vice Vizier on 26 February 1149. Under the influence of Sylvester and Alackavius, Honorius embarked further upon his active reign. Macarius remained a major adviser, but after 1147 his influence was not as extensive as before.

Despite the new form of the monarch's inner circle, and the increased concern Honorius now displayed for the affairs of state, Laurasia was to face a whole new series of issues, wars, and conflicts for the remainder of the King's reign. Indeed, the late 1140s and 1150s were to be relatively eventful decades, as during this time period two of the three Dasian Khanates in the Core Regions made their exit from the stage. For the time being however, the attention of the King was turned to dealing with the issues rising from the conflagration. Honorius pursued a firm but generous policy. Two days after his conference with Sylvester, a mob descended upon the grounds of the Palace of Placenta. This mob, roused up into a fervor, demanded that the King surrender his two aunts, Marthia and Asola Galinaria, as well as his grandmother, Anatha, to "their justice." The King, however, was not afraid, and he ordered his Guards to employ force to disperse the crowd. They did so, and fleeing from the Palace Grounds, knew that he was their master. Honorius thereafter directed the Security Forces of Laurasia Prime to reassert order.

Public rallies were banned, while all mobs and bands were dispersed and returned to their homes. Martial law was imposed on Laurasia Prime, and no dissent against the relief authorities was tolerated. Following this, however, Honorius turned his attentions to relieving the people of the troubles caused by the conflagration. He himself personally directed relief efforts, distributing emergency supplies to his subjects, ordering for the financial compensation of all nobles, gentlemen, merchants, and entrepreneurs affected by the blaze, and establishing a commission to rebuild the districts ravaged by the conflagration. The King himself consulted extensively with his advisers and received spiritual comfort from the Pope and Archbishop Sylvester. During the next three years, Constantinople recovered from the conflagration. In the Galactic Post of 3 January 1153, it was reported that the city was "in the best condition it had ever possessed."

New troubles, however, were brewing within the territories of the Kazanian Khanate. Khan Safa Giray believed that he would be finally able to reestablish the Kazanian Khanate in every respect as a independent state. He continued to believe that subjugation to Laurasia was below his honor and that Laurasia should not maintain its dominance. Secretly assembling his military units at Massanay, Sassanay, and in the Kazan Capital Region, the Khan readied his plans of offensive with his commanders. Then, on 1 January 1148, he sent a diplomatic letter to the court of King Honorius, which was then on Caladaria. In this letter, he stated that "the current condition of the Kazanian Khanate should not be allowed to continue" and expressed his belief that "all states should be allowed to maintain themselves in such a condition as they see fit." He subsequently demanded that all Laurasian strongholds be returned to his authority and that the Khan be recognized by the King as a equal monarch. Honorius, when he received these demands, was enraged, and decided to ignore them. Shortly afterwards, the Khan declared himself free of all conditions towards the Laurasian King (16 January 1148). Two days later, he issued a formal declaration of war. Pushing from Massanay, the Kazanian units besieged and captured Deanna (17-19 January 1148); isolated the Laurasian garrison of Michael (20-25 January 1148); and destroyed the Laurasian diplomatic consulates of Impania, Big Twinny, and Frederickslandia. During February, Kazanian units conquered Wendy and penetrated to Coen, but Laurasian task forces at Rebecca, Durglais, Leopoldia, Briannia, and Katherine managed to harry Kazanian positions eastwards of the Capital Region. Honorius then sent out orders for a offensive against the Western Worlds (March-April 1148), which ended in failure.

Several months of stalemate ensued, as Michael, Coen, the upper Rebeccan Galactic Trade Route, and Big Twinny became a virtual no-man's land. A series of sneak attacks, ambushes, raids, and other assaults were launched by the Kazanian forces against the Laurasian units, which nevertheless failed to dislodge them from their positions. Archbishop Sylvester did not have any military expertise, but encouraged Honorius to never come to any "dishonorable" peace with the Kazanian Khan. As a result, the northern Laurasian regions remained in a state of emergency for the majority of 1148. Safa Giray, too, proved unwilling to make peace. Finally, however, King Honorius found a solution to his troubles. He looked to the Solidaritan auxiliaries, who had remained in peace at Patsy, O'Neal, and the Western Worlds during the preceding decades. The auxiliaries had fought in the Second Goldarian War and the earlier Kazanian Wars, but were for the most part underutilized. Their leaders, until this point, were comprised of pacifist-minded and unambitious elderly men. Honorius, however, knew that the Solidaritans still possessed considerable military potential. He wished for them to be commanded by a general with military experience and tactical genius. He found that person in Erutugul, a arg-bar (brigadier general) of the Solidaritan Shock Corps. Erutugul had served in the Kazanian War of 1141, the Second Great Goldarian War, and the suppression of rebels, pirates, and criminals conducted by Laurasian authorities during the 1120s. He was energetic, determined, aggressive, and in a way, blood-thirsty. At this point, he was still loyal to his Laurasian masters.

On 22 September 1148, Erutugul was appointed as the Supreme General of the Solidaritan Forces and as the Commander of Laurasian forces in Kazanian territory. King Honorius charged him with "destroying our enemy's forces, securing the advantage for us in the Kazanian regions, and insuring that we will remain dominant in the Kazanian Khanate." Erutugul fulfilled these commands expertly. He focused himself on instilling a sense of both discipline and quick thinking in his men. He emphasized the use of hyperspace ploys, false communications relays, and knowledge of turbulent space clusters and red-star systems to lure in the corps of the enemy. Following these strategies, he managed to drive the Kazanian units from Deanna (25-28 September 1148) and destroyed a Kazanian task fleet in the Battle of Amy (1-9 October 1148). He reconquered Wendy (10-19 October 1148); stormed Massanay (20-24 October 1148); and halted a Kazanian offensive against Leopoldia and Big Twinny (October-November 1148). He then secured Keith (2-5 December 1148) and destroyed Kazanian positions on Desmond (6-11 December 1148). By the end of the year, Vindictoria and Martina Mccasia, conquered by Kazanian forces, had also been secured. In January 1149, Sassanay was conquered by the Laurasians, while Kazanian units were driven towards Methaulsah and Maddie. Then, on 27 January, Erutugul executed a ingenious surprise offensive against Kazan, destroying all Kazanian defense forces in his path. Safa Giray himself was captured, and was trundled onto a cruiser. He was forced to sign the Treaty of Kazan (2 February 1149). By the terms of this agreement, Massanay, Sassanay, Vindictoria, Methaulsah, Maddie, the outer reaches of the Kazan Capital Region, and the Kazanian secret outposts were conceded to the Stellar Kingdom of Laurasia. Safa Giray pledged absolute fealty to King Honorius, promised to demolish all of his military forces, and agreed to submit to supervision of his government by the Laurasian consuls.

The successful conclusion of the Safarite Rebellion (as this Kazanian War was labelled) raised the popularity of King Honorius, although he now took care to hide the fact that it was the Solidaritan mercenary and auxiliary units who secured the final victory. The King, despite the pleas of Archbishop Sylvester and Councilor Alackavius, refused to acknowledge Erutugul's contributions to the Laurasian victory, and instead commanded that all honors, blessings, and benefits be conferred only upon the Laurasian commanders and their subordinates. Erutugul was on 10 February 1149, dismissed from his commanding positions and commanded to retire to Patsy. His units were returned to their pre-war status and removed from the Kazanian regions. Erutugul was angered by this insult, and believing himself cheated by the Royal Laurasian Government, began formulating ideas in his mind. He began to dream of the Solidaritans possessing the dominion which should have belonged to them when they first entered the Caladarian Galaxy, 42 years earlier. Erutugul was to develop these ideas over the next two years.

Honorius, in the meantime, turned his attention to the affairs of the Royal Laurasian Government. Archbishop Sylvester and Councilor Alackavius, although they had not been able to influence him about the matter concerning Erutugul and the Solidaritan hordes, were nevertheless able to guide him in matters of administration, law, and justice. During the first half of the 1150s, the King pursued a series of peaceful and organized reforms, which strengthened the Laurasian State and reinforced the Laurasian autocracy. His attention first turned to the matter of a legal code. The Codex Honoriusius, which had been implemented by King Honorius the Liberator, Honorius II's grandfather, had become outdated over the preceding half-century. As a result of the various wars of the first half of the twelfth century, Laurasia had subsumed Melarnarian, Clancian, Marshian, Tethian, Goldarian, Crimeanian, Schauerian, Kazanian, and Venasian territories with differing legal customs and legal systems. Arasces III had attempted to organize all Laurasian law along the basis of a single procedure, but found the code inadequate for his means.

The number of Laurasian laws issued since 1097 also needed to be incorporated into the legal system, a legacy of the troubles of 1138-47. Corruption, ignorance, and inefficiency had also arisen in the government civil service and court. Councilor Alackavius convinced King Honorius that a new code was needed, to synthesize and streamline the procedures of the Codex Honoriusius. Honorius listened, and as such, decided to pursue that goal. By the decree of 10 September 1149, it was declared that "His Majesty truly desires to listen to his subjects, so that he may obtain from them information about their needs." As such, the decree commanded all of the planetary and district officials to select delegates to a convention, or "Consultative Assembly," which was to meet on Laurasia Prime. These delegates would be chosen on the basis of population and social status, so that the nobles would have the most delegates, with the non-Laurasian subjects and the lower occupation commoners having the least. The decree provided for the procedures to be used in selecting the delegates.

After several days had elapsed, and with the assistance of the computer systems, it was found that the local regions had selected 5,267 delegates, to attend the Consultative Assembly on Laurasia Prime. To this number were added the members of the Royal Council, the Chiefs of the Laurasian Military Command, a representative from the Solidaritan units, a representative from the Melarnarian units, and non-voting delegates for the Laurasian territories of the Kazanian Khanate. On 22 September 1149, the Consultative Assembly met for the first time at the Hall of Justice on Laurasia Prime, which had been set aside specifically for the session. The King, his advisers, and the Royal Court them departed from the Celestial Palace on elaborate repulsor-lifts, with crowds being assembled to grant greetings and blessings unto them. The King them disembarked upon reaching the Hall of Justice, and was greeted by priests, pastors, and deacons, who gave him the Salutes of Almitis due to a King. He thereafter entered the hall. According to Viscount Monompahalaus, "all who were present bowed most humbly before His Majesty, revering him as one would revere the Lord Almitis himself, as if he had descended into the chamber." The King then took his place, and subsequently the Prayers of Thanks were read by the Pope, who reminded all that "Almitis granted you your skills and your talents." Silence descended in the chambers. Afterwards, the King delivered this speech to the people:

"I thank you all, my gracious subjects, for assembling here, today. Your concern for the kingdom, your interest in my welfare, and your gracious consideration for the needs of the Government, are pleasing in the sight of the Lord Almitis and of his Representatives. We are here today to correct the troubles which have impacted this kingdom. When I was but a babe, I lost my father, and when I was a young fool, I lost my mother. Both of them were taken up to the Heavens by the Gracious Lord, who saw that it was their time to go. Nobles however, of a cruel and greedy kind, extorted from the kingdom, and a succession of regents tried and failed in their undertakings. They left me there, and one (i.e. Santaz) even forced me to witness the murder of my trusted ones. By such means, they enriched themselves, crushing the poor, brutalizing the alien, and fattening themselves with plunder. I was both blind and deaf to the cries of my subjects, being sunk in deplorable ignorance. I heard not the lamentations of my subjects, and my words were unable to comfort them. I was unable to end the terror directed against them. In all of this, we must see that evil men were responsible.

Although past faults will always remain engraved in the Galactic Holonet, in the records, and in the memories of all, I will now undertake to be a guardian and protector of my people. Forever more, when you have troubles, I will answer you. When you have a petition, I will do my utmost to fulfill it. Please forgive the State for these past faults which have been inflicted. I will always act as a just and firm ruler to my subjects. Lay aside all which involves discord, and let the Love of Almitis enter your hearts. From this day forth I will be your judge and defender."

This ceremony was then closed with a series of further prayers, blessings, and benedictions by the Pope, who then administered Communion to the crowds. The King himself received the Communion in two separate forms, as was his sole privilege. Afterwards, the Consultative Assembly was put to its task, and Alackavius, who was appointed Chief Secretary of the Departments of Royal Correspondence, Legal Tasks, and Judicial Concerns, assumed a position as President of the Assembly. The Assembly, which divided itself into twelve committees, each dealing with a certain field of law and government administration, worked vigorously over the next several months. The Assembly reviewed the Codex Honoriusius, all Laurasian laws and decrees since 1097, and judicial rulings of the Court of the Star Chamber, the Court of the Common Pleas, the Court of the Criminal Investigations, and the Court of Deliberative Matters. The further decrees of November 1, November 17, and November 25, 1149 commanded the Assembly to cooperate with the zone and solar court systems in assembling laws, rulings, and judicial customs from all of the local Laurasian regions, and to annotate all of its papers. The King himself watched the proceedings of the Assembly closely, dispatched further instructions about the compilation of legal procedure and the organization of the case rulings, and intervened in Assembly discussions when he deemed it necessary.

On 1 January 1150, in the traditional New Year's proclamation to the Laurasian subjects, King Honorius praised the work of the Consultative Assembly, stating that what is was producing "would be to the benefit of our dominions." Eventually, after several more months of effort, the Consultative Assembly completed its work. On 15 August 1150, the Assembly presented its final draft to the King and the Royal Council, who, with the assistance of legal personnel and royal secretaries, conducted their own revisions. Finally, on 17 September 1150, the King summoned a special session of the leading ecclesiastical, civil, military, ceremonial, and administrative dignitaries of the Kingdom, as well as the Consultative Assembly. They were presented with the final edition of the Codex Arascanius, which was named in honor of the King's father. In a speech to the gathering, the King praised the efforts of those who drafted the code and expressed his wish to continue working with his government to provide security and stability for the Kingdom. The new code provided a extensive registry of all laws which had been implemented since 1097, incorporating any revisions or repeals those laws had rendered to pre-1097 laws. The code limited the judicial privileges of the nobility and the clergy, reducing their immunity from miscellaneous charges, exposing them to the same methods of interrogation as were applied to other subjects, and affirming their subordinate place to the King. The code however, preserved the Court of Star Chamber and the Ecclesiastical Courts.

The code also strengthened the central judicial system, by establishing a Court of High Justice to supervise the other courts and insure the effectual enforcement of all laws. On the local level, however, it confirmed privileges granted to non-Laurasian subjects such as the Melarnarians, Clancians, Arians, Gourdinians, Rebeccans, and others, insuring their religious and language rights, allowing to them limited participation in local government organizations, and banning the enforcement of any tax or fee directed against them on the basis of race. For Laurasians, the code granted citizens "of respectable means," the right to form elective committees, who would advise the planetary and solar officials and communicate the concerns of the King's subjects to them. The right of petition to the King and his court directly was also confirmed. At the same time however, the autocratic authority of the King was recognized, and it stated that "these rights and privileges herein given depend upon the graciousness of His Majesty." Finally, the code repealed all measures and ordinances issued by the regents of 1138-1145, synthesizing the judicial records and procedures so that the King's subjects "would not be pressured by conflicting obligations." The Codex Arascanius remained in effect for another 99 years, until it was replaced by the Codex Artabanusius in 1249.

On 23 February 1151, King Honorius convened a assembly of the leading ecclesiastical officials, from the Pope to the Metropolitan of the Laurasian Purse Worlds and the Non-Laurasian Regions, and then the Archbishops, Bishops, and Solar Deacons. This assembly, which was convened at the suggestion of Pope Macarius, became known as the Synod of the Dours, for it was held at the Cathedral of the Dours on Americana-in-Space. The assembly was tasked by the King with reorganizing and strengthening the Church administration, which had experienced dissensions and unrest as a result of the troubles of the regency years. The Pope was also interested in codifying aspects of church administration and consolidating the privileges and grants inherited from the time of the Dasian Yoke. In the end, the assembly, which organized itself into twelve administrative committees and two religious reflection bureaus, produced the Official Church Code of the Almitian Church of the Stellar Kingdom of Laurasia. This code was presented to the King on 11 September 1151, who formally ratified it and had the Pope bless its provisions.

The code was divided into five sections, each subdivided into twenty chapters. It contained over five hundred regulations concerning church affairs, theology, and privileges. The code itself defended the primacy of the King as the leading figure in the State and the ruler of all, while declaring that the Pope was the leading figure within the Church itself. The code proclaimed the inviolability of the church properties against the measures of government officials, nobles, and businessmen, protecting them from normal retail laws. Only the King could change the condition of the church's properties and estates. The jurisdiction of the ecclesiastical courts was again ratified, although the King's autocratic authority over all of his subjects was affirmed. The code also regularized and unified all religious ceremonies and duties throughout Laurasia, introducing the same liturgy and procession schedules for all clergy. Non-Laurasian subjects were barred from participating in the most sacred religious festivals unless if they had secured special permission. Finally, the Code allowed for the Pope to implement further policies to reinforce and maintain its provisions.

Having thus chronicled these early years of the reign of King Honorius, we must now turn our attention again to the affairs of Bodi Aligh and the Dasian Khanates. The early 1150s were to witness the most intensive campaigns of Attila.

Further Wars with the Melorkians of Cholodio and Pharmond; Treaty with Rechiar of the Jarjanics; Kuevian Invasion of the Crimeanian Khanate; End of War with Kuevia; Brestord Embassy to Huntite Khanate (1148-1149)

After returning from his campaigns in the Crimeanian Khanate, Bodi Aligh turned his attention back to the affairs of the Huntite Court and Government. The Supreme Commander reorganized his military units, rewarded his generals and chief subordinates for their efforts and achievements in the Crimeanian campaigns, and focused on providing for the continued stability of the Huntite court and civil service. For the remainder of 1147, the Huntite Khanate was at peace, while the court of Jasonia indulged itself in a series of new entertainments and pleasures. King Cholodio of the Salarian Melorkians, however, had been nurturing further ambitions of his own. Determined to constitute a independent state for his species at the expense of the Huntite Khanate, the Melorkian King began plotting rebellion against the Dasians. He engaged his troops in a long series of exercises, practices, and drills, assembled military supplies and equipment on Rasti, Roastafaria Major, Nikki Lowell, and Newman Victoria, and drafted campaign strategies with his advisers and chief subordinates. The Supreme Commander was unaware of these preparations, as his attention was distracted by governing the Crimeanian dominions, paying the tributes to Theodoric and Genseric, and insuring tranquility at the Huntite court.

Then, on 12 January 1148, Cholodio denounced the overlordship of the Huntite Khanate and issued a declaration of war, declaring his intention to "establish for my species their own realm and dominion within the Middle Territories and Outer Borderlands." The Melorkian ruler launched a series of swift offensives. He destroyed the Huntite consulate on Roastafaria Major (13-19 January 1148); demolished the Huntite border fortresses of the upper Kimanian Trade Run (22-29 January 1148); subdued Millard (1-9 February 1148); and cut off Huntite forces at Constipex, Henderson, Filorean, and Kimanis Mooria (10-13 February 1148). The Supreme Commander was now roused from Jasonia, and he advanced swiftly to Kimania, Leo's Redoubt, and Gardiner, determined to prevent the Melorkians from advancing any further. On 14 February, he defeated a Huntite fleet which was dispatched against Breha. Five days later, he established a supply line with Henderson. Cholodio, however, sent expeditions which penetrated as far as Gedrosia Max, Maurya, and the lower sectors of Huntite Space, inflicting damage on thousands of star systems, installations, and colonies.

In March 1148, a Melorkian force launched a surprise offensive against Drea, Duana, and Strongstine, making off with a large number of Huntite battleships and destroyers. Bodi Aligh now organized his forces for a counteroffensive, and decided to use a secret hyperspace route, the Ralanite Corridor, to penetrate to Roastafaria Major, which the Melorkians had renamed Melorkia Prime (Major). On 17 April 1148, the Huntite forces executed their surprise counteroffensive, outflanking and separating the First and Second Melorkian Fleets. Cholodio himself was cornered by Bodi Aligh and his chief general, the future Khan Dayan, at Hutsia (20-29 April 1148). The Melorkian forces suffered a severe defeat. Cholodio himself was killed in the battle. The Melorkians, now under the rule of Cholodio's younger brother Pharmond, were forced to ask for a truce, which was signed on 3 May.

On 7 May 1148, the Treaty of Vlaccia was signed by the Huntite Khanate with the Salarian Melorkian hordes. By the terms of this treaty, Pharmond recognized Khan Dost as his overlord and agreed to resume the Melorkian position as a federate ally and vassal of the Huntite Khanate. He promised to allow Huntite supervision over his government and military forces, pledged to never again threaten Huntite interests, and organized a tribute schedule, so as to compensate the Huntite Government for its mobilization efforts. In turn, Bodi Aligh allowed for the Salarian Melorkians to resume possession of their bases and colonies in Huntite Roastafaria. By the end of May 1148, all Melorkian forces had been vacated from the Barsar Regions. Bodi Aligh subsequently turned his attention to uprisings which broke out on Garnett, Bachman, Walters, Robert, Iego, and Meredita (May-September 1148), which arose due to resistance by the local populations, against Dasian taxes and conscription measures. On 11 October 1148, King Rechila of the Jarjanics died, and was succeeded by his aggressive, ambitious, and energetic nephew Rechiar. Rechiar despised the fact that his kingdom was a federate of the Huntite Khanate, and wished to bring all of the Barsar Regions under his rule.

As such, he began a extensive military buildup in November 1148, assembling new units at Plath, Skold, Jarman, and Christopher. Christopher, in particular, was exploited for its extensive reserves of minerals, which could be used for weapons and equipment. Then on 2 December 1148, Rechiar sent a secret diplomatic communique to King Genseric of the Kuevians, proposing a alliance between Kuevia and Jarjanica. Genseric, who also harbored ambitions of bringing all of the Robertian Worlds under his rule, responded positively to the message. On 17 December 1148, the Treaty of Cluse was signed between the two barbarian monarchs, pledging financial subsidies and a pact of friendship between the two kingdoms. Genseric also promised not to intervene in any Jarjanic efforts within the Barsar Regions. Following this, Rechiar became increasingly hostile to the Huntite Khanate. Bodi Aligh, seeking to maintain ties with the Jarjanic Kingdom without resorting to war, attempted to bribe the King. On 22 December 1148, the Huntite envoy to the court of the Jarjanic King on Armenia Major, the Vickian diplomat Odan (1092-1153), held a audience with King Rechiar, offering to concede Taning, Reading, and Samantha to the authority of the Jarjanics if Rechiar, in turn, promised to make no further territorial demands and continued to defend Huntite territory from pirates, criminals, and other such threats. Rechiar accepted the offer.

On 31 December 1148, the Treaty of Armenia was signed, by which Bodi Aligh conceded Reading, Taning, and Samantha to the Jarjanic Kingdom. Rechiar, on his part, agreed to defend Huntite territory for another fifteen years and to pay a tribute of $3 trillion dataries annually to the Huntite court. Rechiar now had time to formulate his future plans. On 1 January 1149, he sent a letter to Khan Dost, espousing "my greatest desire for the continuance of peace." Just two days later, however, he sent a letter to Genseric, outlining his motives and expressing "his deepest hatred for the Dasians." In February 1149, Rechiar ordered his military command to draft plans for a war against the Huntite Khanate. In March, Jarjanic units launched a series of reconnaissance operations towards Offshora, Chobania, Drea, Duana, Abshire, and Riley. When Bodi Aligh demanded the reason for these operations, Rechiar lied, claiming that they were for the purpose of "ascertaining how best we can defend our overlords." Tensions finally exploded in April 1149, as Genseric, seeking to take advantage of the Supreme Commander's "slumber" on Jasonia, launched a series of surprise offensives against Crimeanian territory. He conquered Benztir V (1-7 April 1149); subdued Hooper (10-12 April 1149); and destroyed a Crimeanian defense armada in the Battle of Eutagia (14-19 April 1149). By the end of April, Mormon had been conquered, while Nathaniel and Jared were threatened.

On 2 May, Bodi Aligh, enraged at Genseric's breaking of the treaty arrangements, launched his units against Meris, the Upper Rebeccan Galactic Trade Route, Beharis, Uris, and Choir. Although the Huntites secured Choir (3-6 May 1149), they suffered a severe reverse at Meris (7-11 May 1149), losing the majority of their starfighter units. After several more days of skirmishes and ambushes, Rechiar decided to enter the conflict, although his units were not yet fully prepared. Declaring war against the Huntite Khanate (21 May 1149), Rechiar invaded and conquered Abshire. From there, he secured Hutsia (22-29 May 1149) and drove Huntite units into the Wild Marshes. Bodi Aligh now dispatched Dayan to the Barsar Regions, while he himself focused on the campaigns against Genseric. Dayan reconquered Hutsia (1-2 June 1149) and blunted a offensive against Chobania by the Jarjanics (3-9 June 1149). His assault against Christopher and Narra failed however (10-17 June 1149). During this time, Bodi Aligh finally secured Meris but was unable to advance into the Middle Territories. Genseric in the meantime, had subdued Sanegeta, Nathaniel, and Wronzaz.

By August 1149, a stalemate had emerged between the Kuevians and the Huntite Khanate, as the Kuevian King was unable to advance further into the Crimeanian Khanate. Laurasia, under Honorius II, had become alerted to his advances and had begun moving units to Senna, Saray, Duros, and Murphy. At the same time, Bodi Aligh was unable to conquer Beharis or make any advances into the Middle Territories. In the Barsar Regions, however, Dayan stabilized the front lines, although Rechiar, from his bases on Christopher, Narra, Armenia Major, Reading, and Taning, harried the Huntite Barsar Regions extensively, taking many captives, impounding a large number of goods and equipment, and imposing a state of fear on the inhabitants of the area. On 3 September, nevertheless, Dayan obtained a major victory in the Battle of Taning, reconquering that stronghold.

Rechiar, knowing that he could not secure the Barsar Regions at this stage, and that the Huntite Khanate was still sturdy enough to pose a sort of resistance in the area, decided to sue for peace. On 6 September, he sent a emissary to Rechiar's command headquarters on Orion IV, offering to terminate his campaigns if the Huntite Khanate, in turn, acknowledged the complete independence of the Jarjanic dominions and their right to deny military access to Huntite forces through their territory. Bodi Aligh, who wished to recover his losses in the Crimeanian Khanate, and to turn his attention to internal Huntite matters, agreed. On 11 September, the Treaty of Anasasia was signed, confirming these arrangements.

Subsequently, all Huntite forces were redirected to fighting the Kuevian Kingdom. King Theodoric of Ashlgothia, who did not wish for Genseric to become too powerful, and who wished to maintain the arrangements established earlier, granted the Huntite forces permission to use Ashlgothian military bases and routes to reach the Crimeanian Khanate. On 15 September, Mormon was reconquered in a surprise offensive, while Genseric was compelled to retreat from Benzitir V. Two days later, Bodi Aligh finally conquered Beharis and moved his armadas towards Uris. Then on 26 September, the Royal Laurasian Government sent a ultimatum to the court of King Genseric, threatening war with the Kuevians unless Genseric agreed to a status quo ante bellum peace with Bodi Aligh. Genseric, whose forces were now being strained, having to fight on two fronts, sent a request for peace on 28 September. On 30 September, a armistice was signed at Bar'say. Eventually, after a month of negotiations, helped along by further Laurasian threats, the Treaty of Way'tosk was signed on 2 November 1149. This treaty, and the Treaty of Anasasia, were ratified by Khan Dost on 15 November.

Bodi Aligh returned to Jasonia on 26 November, after overseeing the withdrawal of Kuevian forces from Crimeanian territory and the restoration of Beharis and Meris to the Kuevian Kingdom. On 29 November, the Huntite Supreme Commander and Crimeanian Khan received a Brestord envoy, Thalbo, on Hunt Major, to which he had traveled. Attila had dispatched the envoy because he had been angered by the alleged theft of his household goods by Huntite tourists. This matter was extremely trivial, but Attila was using it so as to probe Huntite weaknesses and strengths. Bodi Aligh replied to the envoy's claims by promising full financial compensation to the Brestord King and punishment of those involved. The transactions were made on 4 December. On 11 December, however, Attila, in a session of his ar'klag (Council of Advisers), bragged that he had forced Bodi Aligh's hand and that the Huntite Khanate was weak. This reached the ears of the Supreme Commander on 16 December, who was enraged about what he heard. On 22 December, Bodi Aligh ordered the General Headquarters to begin drafting plans for a future conflict with the Brestords. Wrangia Althia, whose health was ailing by this time, urged her son and the Supreme Commander to "maintain the integrity of the State of our Ancestors," at the ceremonies of the Gods, on 26 December.

For the second half of the twelfth century, see General History of Laurasia, 1150-1200