Praetor, on 24.09 at 14:05 UMT, advanced elements of the First Fleet arrived in the Lonstra system and immediately began reconnaissance operations. Initial sensor readings showed negative for enemy activity, and a deeper survey of the space surrounding Battipaglia was started.

O. Plancia: "Excuse me, but you're Triumvir Sestius, aren't you?"

V. Sestius: "Yes I am, Miss…?"

O. Plancia: "Plancia, Ocella Plancia. Tell me Triumvir, why does a man as distinguished as you find himself alone at a bar?"

V. Sestius: "I would have expected Gaius Plancia's daughter to be more aware of current events. History is being made before our eyes. Whatever I thought I might achieve as Triumvir is gone, replaced by the unforeseeable tides of fate."

Bad news continues to come in from the Frontier, as Magistrate Opiter Genucius of the Frontier Reaction Force announced that his organization's attempt to retake the colony world of Battipaglia has failed.

In a shocking mid-day press conference, the Triumvirate shared that the Frontier world of Battipaglia has been attacked by a hostile alien race. No word has been received from the budding colony for a month and a half, and initial attempts to reestablish communications have been unsuccessful.

K. Ulpius: "Publius Decius, to what do I owe the pleasure?"

P. Decius: "Kaeso, it's good to see you!"

K. Ulpius: "Cut to the chase Decius. There's a reason we haven't spoken in years. I take it you're here now because you need something?"

P. Decius: "You wound me Triumvir, but if that's how you wish to proceed… You are correct, I do need something. I need you to do your godsdamn job!"

K. Ulpius: "How dare you-"

[Lift Doors Open]

A. Eppia: "Publius? What a pleasant surprise! I haven't seen you since Trella's birthday party."

P. Decius: "It's good to see you as well Aula, it's been too long!"

A. Eppia: "Absolutely! What brings you to the Palatinate? Have you purchased a unit?"

P. Decius: "In fact I have. I signed the lease less than an hour ago."