The T'au Empire, an ambitious xenos empire on the fringes of the Imperium, was preparing for its Third Sphere Expansion.
This expansion would be led by O'Shaserra, who had performed brilliantly during the previous expansion. Following tradition, the Ethereal High Council had also prepared a title for her.
"Shadowsun."
Commander Shadowsun would sleep in a stasis field when there was no war to fight, awaiting the day she was needed again.
And now, they were in the holographic conference chamber, discussing the implementation of the Third Sphere Expansion.
The T'au Empire's technological facilities were full of smooth curves and clean, orderly designs. Compared to the Imperium's compartments filled with cables and cold iron plating, their conference chamber was far more comfortable.
The holographic projections were clearer and brighter as well, without unstable flickering from interference. The audio and visuals were not distorted by obvious static, either.
Shadowsun, named the new commander, knelt on one knee before the holographic images of the Ethereals and listened to their sacred voices.
"Commander Shadowsun, do you have confidence in the Third Sphere Expansion?"
"I have always believed that the Greater Good will be realized. The T'au Empire is the firstborn of the Greater Good."
"Very good. Steel your resolve, Commander Shadowsun. The High Council thinks highly of you. Do not bring shame upon the Greater Good."
Several hours later, the meeting ended. As Shadowsun emerged from the conference chamber, she found the Earth Caste senior technician Wakan, who had been waiting outside for a long time, along with the Water Caste senior diplomat Masha.
The three hurried down the corridor, their armored boots clicking crisply against the floor.
"How are our weapons preparations?"
Hearing Shadowsun's question, Wakan controlled a hovering data-drone and unfolded a panel lighter and smaller than an Imperial dataslate.
"During the