Tychus Doesn't Do Human Things

"Attention! Heads up!"

After Emperor Augustus finished speaking, General Jim Raynor, principal of Sterling Officer Academy, began his address:

"Young lieutenants, I want to say that I am proud of every one of you for what you have achieved."

"From today onward, once called upon, you will set out for wherever in the Terran Empire you are needed most," he said. "No matter where our forces may be—whether on lava-churned Char or icebound Braxis—no matter whether your enemies are the ravenous Zerg or the evil Tal'darim."

"Do your duty."

"Only by standing united can we overcome hardship. You represent the shining vision of Emperor Augustus: an era of peace and prosperity."

"The great Imperial Marine Corps awaits you."

"Now, congratulations once again."

"Dismissed!"

At the Graduation Ceremony, young men and women tossed their peaked caps into the air, then ran to embrace the family members who had long been waiting outside. Many could not help but weep with joy. Sterling Officer Academy's brutal washout rate was terrifying; the Empire had established this academy precisely to cultivate outstanding elite soldiers.

As top graduates of the Terran Empire's foremost military academy, they were destined to become the rising stars of the Imperial Marine Corps, with futures beyond measure.

For cadets from ordinary families, or even those born as refugees, becoming Imperial officers was undoubtedly a leap in both class and status. From this day on, their destinies would change beyond recognition. Some would win fame and success; others would leave their bones in foreign lands.

In this dark age, no one could remain untouched.

Just as Raynor had said, after graduation they would depart for Terran Empire military installations across countless worlds. Some would even board Imperial Fleets patrolling the vast expanse of space, commanding the marine detachments aboard them.

The Empire's