The Beginning of Terror

The T'au Empire's largest transportation hub world

This was a world of perfect order.

T'au bustled about, hurrying down clean, comfortable, orderly streets. They seemed anxious yet hopeful. News of the total collapse on the front had not yet reached this place—or perhaps their overseers simply did not wish to tell them.

In any case, despite their uneasy anxiety, the T'au here still maintained high enthusiasm for work, as well as the necessary courtesy and restraint. They worked according to the Ethereals' schedules, although their workdays had recently increased by roughly one to three hours.

Earth Caste Ha'drian walked along the street he took to work each day. He was a VRE-grade member of the Earth Caste. His advanced field was the application of drainage systems in urban ecosystems, while his minor was linking and optimizing urban management core systems and Drones.

As a VRE, he held authority over the drainage management of an entire district and access permissions for every urban drainage structure on the planet. To better serve the Greater Good, the Drone he carried with him was also linked to the core of the central system.

Beside him, a Fire Caste member wearing an XV8 suit stepped forward from the escort squad.

"Sir, we have received orders from above. We hope you will reduce your trips outside recently. Other than work, please avoid non-work areas whenever possible."

Ha'drian turned to look at this newly assigned escort team and frowned.

"Why? Because you are worried I might become one of those who support Farsight as well?"

The T'au Empire had been in unusual turmoil recently. Though the Ethereals had done their utmost to seal off the news, the T'au still knew that a great war had erupted in Damocles Gulf—

There was no need to worry that the