Olaraja_Nakondis_Log.txt

This file was downloaded from Master-at-Arms Olaraja's personal computer on Nakondis during the Aeon Empire's attempts to control the outpost.

Personal Log: Master-at-Arms Olaraja Date: [REDACTED]

The situation on Nakondis continues to develop in unexpected ways. I’ve been assigned temporarily to Lieutenant Sharu of the Aeon Guard while the Barazad is off mapping the rest of the system. The Sardat’s orders were clear: investigate the aeon stone readings from the crashed probe and report back with any significant findings. It’s become obvious that Sardat Zolan Ulivestra was right to take an interest in this backwater planet; the discovery of the ancient starship Royal Venture has confirmed that.

To think that a vessel from the pre-Gap era—a personal ship of some Azlanti noble—has been sitting here for who knows how long. And on board, the rune drive, a technomagical device capable of interstellar travel without the use of the Drift. If we secure this technology for the Empire, it could change everything.

Unfortunately, our expedition was complicated by the presence of a small Pact Worlds colony in the area. Lieutenant Sharu and her cadets managed to swiftly subdue the colonists at Madelon’s Landing and established a presence there. However, during our occupation, we discovered that an android colonist, one Cedona, had already accessed the Royal Venture’s crash site. This is no mere coincidence—she clearly knew what she was after.

After recovering the rune drive, Cedona was taken off-planet by a fast courier vessel, the Silver Needle, which was arranged by Lieutenant Sharu. The Silver Needle transported both the android and the rune drive back to the Empire only a short time ago. The destination of the courier remains unknown, perhaps deliberately omitted from the records to prevent any unauthorized pursuit or inquiry.

This leaves us with the remaining colonists, now prisoners in the garrison. Initial interrogations have revealed that none of them had direct contact with the rune drive or its secrets, only that they have a vague understanding of its importance. Sharu is impatient—she wants them executed to set an example and eliminate any lingering threat to our mission. I have delayed carrying out these orders, opting instead to arrange for public executions. The spectacle will serve as a powerful deterrent to the rest of the colony, reinforcing our control and demonstrating the consequences of defying the Empire.

There’s also the matter of the three verminous ysoki I’ve seen skittering about in the shadows of Madelon’s Landing. Their kind is nothing but a blight on the galaxy—sneaky, filthy creatures with no place in Azlanti territory. I’ve yet to gather enough information on their activities, though I suspect they’re up to no good. If I could, I’d have them exterminated on sight, but with Sharu and the cadets at the Royal Venture crash site, I have yet to inform her of their presence. When she returns, we’ll deal with this infestation properly.

Until then, I must prepare for the Barazad’s return and ensure that when Lieutenant Sharu gets back, we are ready to act swiftly and decisively on any further orders.

End Log.