The sky above Earth was no longer the boundary of human ambition. Decades after the invention of the first faster-than-light drive, humanity had expanded far beyond its solar system, laying the foundations of an intergalactic empire. What began as exploration quickly turned into conquest. The untapped resources of distant star systems beckoned, and the political and military might of the Terran Dominion rose to meet the challenge.

Admiral Zara Kincaid stood on the bridge of the *Odyssey*, humanity's flagship. From here, she had commanded more than a hundred battles, securing humanity's place as a dominant force. As she gazed out at the distant nebulae from her vantage point, she couldn't help but marvel at how far they had come. From the tribal wars of ancient Earth to commanding fleets across the stars, humanity's drive for expansion had only grown more ruthless.

But with expansion came conflict. Humanity was not alone in the galaxy. They soon discovered other civilizations—some peaceful, others hostile. First contact with the Valdari, an insectoid race known for their hive-mind coordination, had resulted in a bloody war that lasted nearly a decade. Though humanity emerged victorious, the cost was high. Entire colonies had been decimated, and Zara herself had lost close friends.

Still, the victory had solidified humanity's place among the stars. A peace treaty was signed, creating an uneasy alliance with the Valdari, who now served as vassals under the Dominion's banner. Zara knew, however, that this peace would not last. There were whispers of rebellion within the Valdari ranks, and other species—like the mysterious and elusive Zepharans—were rumored to be gathering strength in the far reaches of the galaxy.

As Zara's comm officer alerted her to an incoming message from the Emperor himself, she braced for what was coming next. Another campaign, another war. Peace was fleeting, and the stars were restless.

"Admiral Kincaid," the Emperor's voice crackled through the speakers, "it's time. Prepare your fleet. The Zepharans are no longer content with hiding. They've made their move."

Zara's eyes narrowed. The empire was about to face a new threat, one far more dangerous than any before.