Deep within a piloted asteroid in a chamber of rock and steel six figures stand around a table with a holographic display. It's a map of the surrounding space with populated worlds and points of interest highlighted. One of the figures gestures towards an expanse painted red on the map.

“As you can see, we’re beginning to run up against the edge of Cemes’ territory…” A strikingly beautiful Beppa-seijin man with light green skin reports.

“Power level of one-point-two million if I recall, just a little stronger than I…” A deep feminine voice, resonant with a mature timbre, the voice of a future queen.

“Yes, Lady Korira. Cemes has a strong retinue of lieutenants as well, some are even stronger than I, though it pains me to admit it.”

“For now, Yuzrn. You will grow stronger, we will all grow stronger.” Korira assures her circle. “Cemes, like so many of my people, will stagnate. He will grow fatter and lazier as we become leaner, hungrier…”

Yuzrn nods a smile playing on his lips, some of the other lieutenants smirk as well. Korira’s quiet confidence is contagious.

“Any other threats in this region?” Korira asks, bringing everyone’s heads out of the clouds.

Yuzrn turns his attention back to the map. “Well… there’s rumors of a Horunja scouting party in the area and Planet Tellees here recently made a large purchase in the services category. Possibly a mercenary protector or even a squad of them.”

“Would they need one?” Korira asks. “Are they a weak world?” The Arcosian woman taps a button on the display before anyone can answer her. “Hmm… upper range of about twenty-five thousand. Cemes and the Harunja probably have them frightened if they really have purchased protection. What of the other worlds?”

“Data is sparse on the other planets my lady, they’re mostly smaller colonies and outlaw dens. No telling what might be at any one of them.” The Beppa-seijin answers.

“Very well.” Korira says. “We’ll be done for now, I’d like to gather some more intelligence on our options before I commit to anything.” She turns to a bird-like alien in her circle. “Jol, send some probes out.” She orders the Litt tech officer. The bird bows and hurries off. “The rest of you, I can guarantee action soon. See to it that you and your squads are sharp. Dismissed.” The group disperses.

Korira presses a button on the communication device integrated into her bracer. “M’liun, move the Naglfar into the asteroid field at the provided coordinates and cut the main engine.” Her will to be done. The Naglfar will blend almost perfectly with the other rocks in space, the only tells being its thrusters and patchwork metal plates.

With that, the Arcosian retreats to her chambers; the baths will cool a bit once the engine is cut so she intends to enjoy them at their peak-scalding while she can.