>>6322858
“Allow me to brief you on the current situation.” Gale summoned a map of the region on the AR display, small pop-ups detailing fleet dispositions appeared as she spoke.

“Currently our fleet has engaged the main Imperial force in the Noto system. We have managed to keep them at bay for the time being, but if current trends continue we will eventually lose. High Command tried to draw away Imperial forces by hiring pirates and mercenaries to strike at Shima, but the attack failed. The local garrison proved more tenacious than anticipated.”

The map shrunk and ship models started filling the display. “I’m sure you’re aware that the Old Empire could field some truly fearsome warships, but much of its capacity to build them was lost during the previous collapse. As such both sides have been reduced to using older human diaspora designs which are easier to build with a limited technology base. However recently the Imperials have started fielding more advanced designs.”

A medium sized cruiser filled the display, it had a wide stern with three large drives and a bulbous prow sporting a prominent laser turret. “This is the Ryu class. The first of its kind is the flagship of the Imperial Fleet, subsequent ships are often assigned as command vessels for individual battlegroups. It has excellent long range capabilities, and enough maneuverability to avoid being flanked by our own capital ships. Its supporting fire has been a decisive factor at breaking stalemates.”

Gale switched to an image of some kind of carrier vessel. It had a long rectangular hull and a prominent railgun turret mounted under its prow. The resolution of the image was too blurry to make out further details. “This is the Subjugator class, it was designed for planetary assault so the Imperials don’t really send them to major fleet actions. It is however, powerful enough to take on frigates. Supposedly a single one of these ships was responsible for a decapitation strike on Shima’s government just as they were about to side with us. Our planetary defences have been improved since then but even so Command constantly worries about one of these slipping through our pickets and raiding our planetary installations