Malaran

CHAPTER EIGHT

  It appears that the Emperor was even more determined to maintain his dynasty than I had thought. A delayed message was received from the late Emperor informing me that he had altered the Phoenix protocols to respond only to the Anax-Hema. Without the preservation of the zygotes, the fertilized eggs, that he placed in my safekeeping, it is likely that we will have no means of utilizing the Phoenix. Perhaps he had doubts about my loyalty, or perhaps it was just natural instinct for the man that brought the Great Houses to heel and ruled the Empire, but no matter his reasoning, this ploy endangers the entire human race.

  - Archives of Lord Dakshu Pran Ashoka, High Chancellor of the Empire of Man (from 354 to 367 P.D.)