Head Scientist Anna Bke stepped onto the rugged, volcanic region of Hypen, the scorching region ruled by General Issa Hypenamber. Her nding pod hissed as it cooled under the intense heat, contrasting with the stark, va-filled ndscape stretching across sector 911. Rivers of va shimmered like molten gold under the red sky, and the thick, sulfuric air was heavy with minerals yet undiscovered.
Anna’s team of scientists, fresh-faced and buzzing with excitement, exited their pods, fanning out across the area. Equipped with advanced scanning equipment, they mapped the terrain and marked potential hotspots for valuable resources. Anna’s voice crackled over their comms, giving them their first instruction. “Focus on locating Lerium and Lava Stone deposits. Lerium, as we know, can turn anything to ash once purified. Handle it carefully. And remember—Lava Stone is essential for anti-corrosion paint and can withstand hurricanes up to category 20.”
As they navigated further, Anna led the team to a wide riverbed of va. Just beneath its molten surface, deposits of dark, dense Lava Stone gleamed in the fiery glow. With precision, Anna directed her team to collect samples of the stone, expining its unique qualities to the newbies as they extracted it with high-heat-resistant tools.
“Lava Stone is resilient,” Anna said, holding up a chunk. “It can withstand the most violent weather conditions and is ideal for zones pgued by tornadoes, storms, and even hurricanes.” The newbies nodded, eyes wide with fascination as they listened, absorbing every detail like sponges.
One of the team members, while exploring an adjoining section of the riverbed, stumbled upon an unusual cluster of stones that glittered like crystals under the harsh light. The mineral had a strange allure, unlike anything they’d seen. Anna inspected it, her trained eyes narrowing in curiosity.
“Pour water over a section,” she ordered, eager to understand its properties.
The team followed her instruction, spreading water over an acre of the crystalline rock. To their astonishment, the mineral became denser, hardening to a level beyond what their current equipment could manage. Their S2 and S3 pickaxes cracked and failed against the stubborn rock, and only the force of an S4 pickaxe finally succeeded in extracting a sample.
Anna held up a chunk of the newfound mineral with awe. “We’ll call this Soliustone,” she decred. “A mineral with resilience like this is rare. It could prove incredibly valuable.”
Her team, inspired, continued their work. A few scientists discovered a variant of Soliustone with a deep, red hue, sparking Anna’s curiosity. She ordered a series of tests on it, and to their delight, the mineral showed promising qualities for structural use. They melted it down in a high-powered, 1000-degree furnace, and the material, once liquefied, formed a mile-long current that exhibited phenomenal resilience.
Eager to test its limits, Anna arranged for the red Soliustone to be transported to the infamous Death Sor System. Known for its chaotic, storm-ridden gas giants, the system was home to category 1 to 100 hurricanes and violent atmospheric conditions. They sent the mile-long Soliustone current into one of the three gas giants. It held firm, withstanding the brutal storms unscathed.
The potential of this new mineral was staggering. Recognizing its value, Anna quickly secured the entire region for 4,000 Gold Martian Star Coins. She ordered S6-tier buildings to be constructed to convert the area into a safe, environmentally friendly site for future mining operations.
As the team marveled at their findings, Anna reminded them of the pnet’s unique geological cycle. “This region will experience its next major eruption in 500 years. Mark your calendars. Only during those eruptions will we have the chance to gather these minerals in the quantity we need.”
The team acknowledged, inspired by the discovery they’d been a part of. With Soliustone and its potential uses revealed, Anna’s vision for Hypen began to take shape. The newfound mineral could revolutionize building materials and energy conduction, especially in hostile environments. For now, though, they would leave Hypen to rest, waiting patiently for nature’s clock to turn again.
Anna Bke stood in the holo-room of her boratory, the glow of the holographic interface casting a blue sheen across her face. She activated the secure transmission to Hariko Lee’s office aboard the fgship, the Eternal Wrath. Hariko’s image appeared on the screen, his steady gaze meeting hers with a sense of anticipation.
“Hariko,” Anna began, her voice resonating with a mix of pride and caution, “we’ve made a significant discovery on Hypen. I’ve compiled a full report on our findings and the implications for the Empire.”
Hariko leaned forward, intrigued. “Go on, Anna. I’ve heard murmurs, but I need the details. How valuable are we talking?”
Anna took a breath, her eyes alight with excitement. “Hypen has proven to be far richer than anticipated. We’ve located massive deposits of Lerium and Lava Stone. As you know, Lerium’s ability to turn anything to ash once purified could enhance weapon and shield technology. It’s a high-risk material, but its value is unprecedented.”
Hariko nodded, his gaze steady as he absorbed the information. “And the Lava Stone?”
“It’s far more durable than anything we’ve seen. Perfect for anti- corrosion paint and defensive architecture. It’s nearly impervious to erosion, even under the harshest conditions. We’ve found it’s resilient enough to withstand hurricanes up to category 20.” Anna pulled up a dispy showing the molecur structure of the Lava Stone, reinforcing its unique properties.
“But that’s not all,” she continued, her tone shifting. “We’ve also discovered a completely new mineral — we’ve named it Soliustone. Initially, we thought it was an ordinary crystalline mineral, but upon further testing, we found that Soliustone hardens upon contact with water. In fact, its density increased by twentyfold once we applied water across an acre of it. Only our highest-tier tools, the S4 pickaxes, were able to extract it.”
A slight smile pyed on Hariko’s lips. “Interesting. So, this Soliustone—what’s its application?”
“To test its limits, we refined a red variant of Soliustone and subjected it to the most extreme conditions,” Anna replied, pulling up footage from the Death Sor System experiment. “We liquefied it and pced it within one of the system’s gas giants, where it endured category 1 to 100 storms. Remarkably, it survived without any degradation. If developed further, Soliustone could become the foundation for advanced spacecraft hulls, pnet-based fortifications, and even interstelr conduits. We believe it could allow structures to operate in atmospheres that would destroy typical materials.”
Hariko's expression grew serious, yet his satisfaction was evident. “Then you’ve not only unlocked a new mineral but potentially revolutionized our engineering protocols.”
Anna nodded. “I’ve taken steps to secure the region. We purchased the entire mining site for 4,000 Gold Martian Star Coins, and I’ve initiated the construction of S6-tier structures to ensure we can process and refine these materials safely. Given Hypen’s geological patterns, we’ll need to wait for the next major eruption cycle, roughly 500 years from now, to gather a significant quantity. However, we’re prepared to process smaller amounts as they become avaible.”
“Impressive work, Anna.” Hariko crossed his arms, visibly pleased. “These resources could fortify our front lines, build resilient defenses for our border pnets, and expand our reach in hostile regions. I’ll authorize additional funding to establish a dedicated Soliustone research b and provide more security at the site. Anything else?”
Anna smiled. “Only one recommendation, Hariko: we’ll need strategic oversight. Soliustone’s potential will draw interest from allies and enemies alike. I’d suggest a specialized security protocol to guard the research efforts.”
Hariko nodded thoughtfully. “Consider it done. I’ll assign top-tier security from Mordered’s forces. They’ve proven adept at handling high-stakes resources. Your achievements have paved the way, Anna. I’ll see that the Empire capitalizes on it.”
“Thank you, Hariko,” Anna said, her voice resolute. “We’re ready for what’s next.”
As the transmission ended, Anna knew that Hypen’s discovery marked the beginning of a new chapter for the Empire’s technological dominance. With Hariko’s backing and her team’s expertise, Soliustone and its allied resources would become the Empire’s formidable edge in the ever-evolving interstelr ndscape.
The excavation site on Hypen buzzed with activity as Anna Bke’s team carefully mined the newly discovered minerals: Lerium, Lava Stone, and the highly coveted Soliustone. They worked with precision, extracting each piece with high-grade tools under the careful supervision of scientists, engineers, and guards.
As the team continued their work, Anna noticed something unusual. One of the scientists pointed to a strange insect flitting near the mineral deposit. It had four iridescent eyes, delicate yet powerful wings, and a mouth that seemed perfectly adapted for biting through stone. Before anyone could react, the insect nded on a chunk of Soliustone, took a small bite, and flew off.
“Did anyone else see that?” Anna asked, frowning.
“Strangest thing,” one of the scientists muttered. “I’ve never seen anything like it.”
But it was quickly forgotten as the team resumed their work. However, just an hour ter, one of the miners called out in shock.
“Dr. Bke! The mineral — it’s back!”
Anna turned, her eyes widening. A full twenty feet of Soliustone that had been carefully removed was somehow restored, as if untouched by human hands. She scanned the area, and to her amazement, noticed that even the trees surrounding the site, which had been cleared to make room for machinery, had regrown.
Word spread quickly through the team, and they began investigating the phenomenon. As Anna examined the site, she noticed more of the strange four-eyed flies buzzing around the area. They seemed particurly interested in the removed minerals and damaged vegetation.
Over the next day, the peculiar pattern continued. Wherever the flies nded and took bites, the affected area seemed to regenerate or regrow within hours. And while the flies rgely ignored non-native pnts, they were diligent in restoring native Hypen flora and minerals. Local researchers dubbed them “Restoration Flies,” and Anna realized the true depth of their abilities.
“These flies,” she mused aloud to her assistant, “seem to be far more than simple creatures. It’s as if they’re programmed by the ecosystem itself to maintain bance. They don’t just consume — they’re actively restoring everything in their path.”
The assistant nodded, holding up a small piece of vegetation that had been regrown from the flies’ droppings. “Even their defecation has remarkable restorative properties. Within two days, any chopped-down tree or mined mineral is completely reconstituted.”
Anna’s mind raced as she considered the implications. This cycle of natural regeneration, controlled by these strange flies, made Hypen’s ecosystem unlike any other in the Empire. And the Restoration Flies seemed to have a specific interest in preserving the bance of native Hypen resources, even to the point of eliminating non-native flora.
Word quickly spread to Hariko Lee, who sent a team to study the flies and their effects. The flies didn’t harm humans, yet they had a near-miraculous effect on the nd. They even ventured into local homes, repcing non-native pnts with native Hypen flora, subtly shifting the environment to its original state.
“This could be an unprecedented biological discovery,” Anna noted in her report. “The Restoration Flies are not only preserving Hypen’s native ecosystem but actively protecting its integrity. We may need to reconsider our mining operations to respect their natural territory.”
Despite the challenge this presented, Anna knew they’d stumbled upon a treasure of a different kind. These tiny creatures could hold secrets to untapped forms of restoration and preservation technology, potentially altering the course of pnetary management across the Empire.
Anna sent out a final message to her team: “Until further notice, all mining and deforestation efforts on Hypen are to be suspended. We’re dealing with a living ecosystem unlike any other. Prepare for a shift in strategy — it’s time to work with Hypen, not against it.”
The chapter of Hypen’s restoration had only just begun, as Anna and her team learned to navigate an ecosystem seemingly alive with purpose and intelligence, shaping the nd they aimed to harvest.
Hariko Lee sat at his desk, the holographic interface in front of him flickering with data reports, military movements, and strategic deployments across multiple systems. He leaned back in his chair, fingers tapping rhythmically on the armrest as his mind raced with the tasks at hand. He had received a series of messages from his subordinates about the status of the mineral deliveries from Hypen, but something was off. There had been no shipments arriving in the st few weeks, despite the promise of a constant flow of resources.
His patience wore thin.
"Where are the deliveries?" Hariko muttered under his breath, more to himself than anyone else. He had been waiting for the Lerium, Lava Stone, and Soliustone deliveries that were essential to the ongoing military efforts and infrastructure projects. They had made agreements with the local officials on Hypen, and Anna Bke had confirmed that everything was progressing smoothly on the ground.
Yet here he was, staring at an empty supply docket.
He raised his hand, signaling to his aide.
"Yes, sir?" the aide responded, quickly stepping forward.
"Get General Issa Hypenamber on the line. Now."
The aide nodded and quickly activated the communication array. Moments ter, a hologram of General Issa appeared before Hariko. The general was dressed in his standard military garb, a stern expression on her face as he acknowledged Hariko with a slight nod.
"General Issa," Hariko began, her voice calm but carrying an undercurrent of urgency, "I've been reviewing the supply reports, and it seems there has been a significant dey in the delivery of the minerals we requested. Care to expin why?"
The general's face remained impassive, but Hariko could see a flicker of hesitation in her eyes.
"Hariko," Issa began slowly, "there’s been an unforeseen issue on Hypen. The extraction teams have encountered... complications with the new minerals. As you know, the Soliustone is unlike anything we’ve seen before, and we’ve been running tests to understand its properties more thoroughly. Something unexpected occurred."
Hariko’s gaze hardened. He knew the general well enough to detect when something was being hidden, and this was no exception.
"Complications?" Hariko echoed. "I’ve been informed that your scientists have been working on the minerals for weeks. Anna Bke reported nothing but progress. Don’t tell me you’re trying to tell me a dey is due to ‘unexpected complications.’ I need a clear answer, Issa."
The general hesitated, his fingers adjusting the colr of his uniform as if looking for the right words. He sighed.
"There’s something about these minerals, Hariko... about Hypen itself," Issa said reluctantly. "It’s... changing. The ecosystem there has adapted in ways we can’t fully expin. These Restoration Flies, as Dr. Bke has called them, are altering the very environment. They’ve been restoring everything we’ve mined, regenerating the minerals and flora at an arming rate. We've been unable to keep up with the extraction because the minerals keep regenerating, no matter what we do."
Hariko’s brow furrowed. This was new information—information that had not been included in any of the reports he’d received.
"Are you telling me that the minerals are regenerating?" Hariko asked, his voice sharp with disbelief. "Every time you try to extract them, they come back? And you didn’t think this was important enough to inform me sooner?"
"We weren’t sure what to make of it at first," Issa admitted, looking a little uncomfortable. "But Dr. Bke believes it could be an ecosystem-wide defense mechanism. These flies, or whatever they are, seem to have the ability to restore anything they consume. They’ve started regenerating the minerals we’ve taken and even the trees that have been cleared. It’s a biological process we’re still investigating."
Hariko's mind raced as she processed the information. Hypen was no ordinary pnet, and it was becoming increasingly clear that their mineral extraction efforts were facing unforeseen challenges. However, this did not excuse the ck of delivery, especially when he needed those resources for military and strategic operations.
"Issuing a dey due to ecological defense mechanisms doesn’t sit well with me, General," Hariko said, her voice steady but filled with authority. "This situation needs to be resolved immediately. I don’t care if the pnet is being protected by mythical flies. I need the minerals—now."
Issa nodded slowly. "We are adjusting our methods, Hariko. We're deploying specialized teams to gather the Soliustone and Lerium in areas where the flies haven’t yet reached. It may take a bit longer, but we’re making progress. I’ll ensure the shipments start arriving within the next few days."
"Make sure of it," Hariko said firmly. "And Issa—ensure you keep me updated. I don’t want any more surprises. You’ve got until the end of the week, or I’ll send a team to handle the situation myself."
"Understood, Hariko," Issa replied, her voice steady.
The hologram flickered as the general’s image disappeared, leaving Hariko alone in his command room once again. He stared at the empty supply docket one more time, frustration building within him.
This dey had already cost them time, and time was something they didn’t have. Hariko could feel the weight of the coming war pressing on him—every resource, every scrap of weaponry, every strategic advantage counted. He couldn’t afford to be caught off guard by an ecosystem that was more than it seemed.
Hariko Lee stood at the heart of his command room, a vast chamber lined with holographic dispys flickering with data, military operations, and strategic assessments. The atmosphere felt tense—each passing day, more was at stake. The news from General Issa Hypenamber about the complications surrounding the mineral extraction on Hypen had only added to his mounting pressure. The supply of Soliustone, Lerium, and Lava Stone was critical, not only for the military's operations but for the survival of the empire itself.
He paced back and forth, arms crossed, brow furrowed in thought. His mind was running over every variable—the battles that had been fought and won, the long-standing strategic pns, the infrastructure that had to be built in the wake of chaos. And in every scenario, one thing stood out: the minerals from Hypen were a necessity, and there was no room for deys.
Hariko paused and turned to the comms station, signaling for his top advisors and field commanders to join the video call. Within moments, their faces appeared on the screen—each one ready to receive orders.
"General Issa," Hariko began, his voice steady but filled with authority, "you and your team have made it clear that Hypen is... not operating as expected. But we can't afford these setbacks. The demand for these minerals isn't just a side project—it's a necessity."
Issa’s image flickered slightly, and the general adjusted his posture, sensing the shift in Hariko’s tone. "Understood, Hariko. We’re actively working on extracting the materials as efficiently as possible."
"Good," Hariko replied, his eyes narrowing. "The Empire's survival depends on these materials, not just for military use, but to ensure our infrastructure and devices can handle the scale of disasters we know are coming. Soliustone has potential we’re still scratching the surface of—it can stabilize our critical systems during atmospheric disturbances, and Lava Stone's applications in anti-rush paint could mean the difference between life and death in category 20 hurricanes."
He took a breath, letting his words settle in. "The Elvendragon Empire is teetering on the edge of multiple threats—natural disasters, strategic warfare, and the constant push from opposing forces. We need these minerals to maintain our frontline defenses. Hypen’s production is part of that equation. If we don’t get these supplies, the frontline will be undermined."
He turned to the holographic dispy that showed the locations of various active battles in the Elvendragon Empire. Dozens of points blinked red, indicating critical hot zones where the empire’s forces were locked in a struggle for survival.
"I’m sure you all know that the demand for these materials extends beyond just our immediate sector. The frontlines are a constant battle to hold, and without the right resources, we’re vulnerable. Soliustone alone has the potential to keep our devices online even during catastrophic events. But we need it to move faster. We can’t keep waiting. The Empire needs these minerals, and I need them now."
Hariko’s eyes shifted to the holographic map as he continued. "The weather anomalies on the frontline are escating. We’ve seen css 10 hurricanes already. But reports indicate we could see a shift to css 20 storms within the next month if we don’t act quickly. Our existing defenses—our equipment, our energy shields, our technology—are vulnerable. Only by combining these minerals with existing supplies will we create the needed resistance to withstand such disasters."
The room was silent for a moment as everyone absorbed the weight of his words. Hariko could feel the tension in the air.
"I’m ordering the teams to continue operations on-site," Hariko said, his voice firm. "I want research on the Soliustone and its capabilities to be prioritized. I also want every team to study how these Restoration Flies are interacting with the environment. If we can harness this process, we can improve our extraction efforts. I need data on this in the next 48 hours. There’s no more room for inefficiency."
The advisors nodded, and Hariko could see them scribbling down notes, preparing to execute his orders.
"I also want you to push for speed. I know the situation is votile, but the frontline waits for no one," Hariko continued. "Get those minerals to the active zones. Elvendragon Empire forces are already stretched thin. These materials will be used to enhance our base fortifications, provide better defensive systems, and ensure the survival of our fleet. It's imperative we keep them supplied—not just for defense, but to keep our enemies from pushing us back."
He gnced at each of the commanders one st time, his gaze firm.
"We need the edge. And we’re going to get it by securing Hypen’s resources. Move quickly, research faster, and don't waste another second."
The holographic team members nodded, some of them already making adjustments to their schedules. The urgency in Hariko’s voice had left no room for argument.
As the meeting concluded and the holograms flickered out one by one, Hariko leaned back in his chair, running a hand over his face. The weight of command never seemed to ease, and every decision he made felt like it carried the potential to reshape the future of the empire.
"Keep working," he muttered to himself, his voice tinged with resolve. "We can't afford to lose momentum now."
The war for Hypen’s resources—and the survival of the Elvendragon Empire—was far from over.
“Keep pushing, Hypen,” Hariko muttered to himself. “I’ll be watching.”
The war room was filled with a palpable tension as Hariko Lee leaned over the rge central table, his fingers pressed against the cold surface of the map. The table was covered with data reports, mission updates, and timelines, each one a piece of a rger puzzle. His thoughts raced as he considered the strategic importance of Hypen’s minerals, the frontline's ever-pressing needs, and the challenge of maintaining supply routes in the face of both natural and military threats. But now, after days of relentless pnning and execution, the situation was about to change.
The st few weeks had been a whirlwind of activity: the extraction of Soliustone and Lava Stone, the mysterious Restoration Flies, and the sudden boom in demand for these materials. Now, Hariko had to ensure that the Empire could actually meet this demand. Every move he made had to be precise, and the timing couldn’t be better.
"Status report on the Soliustone delivery to the frontline," Hariko demanded, his voice unwavering as he addressed his officers. His hands hovered over a glowing dispy showing the frontlines of the Elvendragon Empire.
A senior logistics officer, Colonel Sarina, stepped forward. She had been coordinating the resource shipments since the extraction had ramped up. "Sir, the first shipment of Soliustone and Lava Stone is en route. It will hit the frontline in two days. We’ve already established secure transfer routes, and additional resources are being stored at each of the Empire’s outer defense bases. We’re ready to support the need for device stabilization and fortifications."
Hariko nodded, eyes scanning the map as Colonel Sarina continued. "The first wave will also include a batch of Restoration Fly eggs. We’ve analyzed their potential. If they can regenerate the flora and mineral deposits as they do, the extraction site will be a steady source of resources for us."
The mention of the flies brought a small flicker of hope. The peculiar creatures had proven themselves to be more than just a strange byproduct of Hypen’s ecosystem; they were part of a natural process that could accelerate the regeneration of the materials Hariko so desperately needed. If they could continue to study and harness the flies' regenerative capabilities, they could potentially turn the entire region into a renewable resource hub.
"Good. I want constant monitoring of that situation. We need data on their growth cycle, and I expect analysis of the flies’ impact on Soliustone production. Every bit counts," Hariko said, his tone sharp.
A young officer, Lieutenant Ny, raised her hand. She looked nervous but eager to report. "Sir, the demand for Lava Stone has increased dramatically. The Hurricane Shields program is requesting a massive quantity of it. They’re currently working on improving their anti-rush paint technology using Lava Stone as a base material. They cim it could potentially withstand natural disasters on an unprecedented scale."
"Perfect," Hariko responded without hesitation. "We’ll prioritize those shipments. This needs to go to the most critical regions first—the areas where category 15 to 20 storms are expected to hit. The st thing we need is a shield failure when the Empire is already struggling to hold its territory."
The room seemed to hum with energy as the officers moved to the next report. The sheer scale of the logistics involved was daunting, but Hariko knew the Empire’s future rested on the successful delivery of these materials. If he failed to meet the growing demand, the consequences would be catastrophic.
"How are we handling the supply to the Imperial Guard?" Hariko asked, his gaze fixing on the officer in charge of military logistics, Commander Varek. The Imperial Guard had been Hariko’s most trusted force, and the heavy toll from previous battles had left them in need of immediate reinforcements.
"Sir, we’re in the process of sending them a batch of Soliustone to upgrade their energy shields," Varek reported, his voice clipped and confident. "Their shields were barely holding against the Spider Hive Fleet's assault, but this will increase their survivability exponentially. I’ve also authorized a shipment of Lava Stone for their anti-rush paint. Once they’re coated, they should be able to move through hostile zones with more protection than before."
"Good," Hariko said. "And what of the fleets in the Elvendragon Empire? How are they holding up with their devices?"
"Sir, the first batch of Lava Stone-coated fighters is already in service, and initial reports suggest a significant reduction in hull damage during combat. The Soliustone upgrades are performing better than expected—energy consumption has dropped by 20%, and shield regeneration is operating at peak efficiency."
Hariko smiled. For a moment, the weight of the situation seemed to lift. "That’s what I like to hear," he said. "We’ll need that edge when we face the next wave."
There was a brief pause before Colonel Sarina spoke up again. "Sir, the rest of the minerals should arrive in the coming days. The extraction site is working at full capacity now that the Restoration Flies are in full swing. In two weeks, we’ll have a steady stream of Soliustone, Lava Stone, and potentially other minerals ready for distribution."
Hariko nodded in approval, his mind already racing ahead to the next stage of the operation. "I want that supply to be constant, with no deys. This war isn’t slowing down anytime soon, and we need to stay ahead of the curve. Keep working on integrating those materials into our fleets and fortifications."
His officers nodded in unison. The orders had been made, and the groundwork was id. Now it was time to see the fruits of their bor.
"One more thing," Hariko added, as the meeting was about to close. "We’ve been doing well so far, but don’t let up. There’s still a long way to go. The frontline needs us, and I won’t tolerate failure."
The officers stood to attention, their faces set with determination. "Yes, sir!" they replied in unison, ready to carry out their leader’s orders.
As the meeting came to a close, Hariko felt the weight of responsibility settle back into pce. The demand for the minerals was high, and the Empire’s survival hinged on meeting that demand. But now, with the resources flowing steadily and the Empire’s defenses growing stronger, Hariko was confident that they could push through the trials ahead.
The future of the Elvendragon Empire would be forged in the heat of battle, and Hariko knew that, with the right resources, they had the strength to weather any storm.