Checkmate (1)

As the situation on Earth grew increasingly tense with each passing moment, the space above the blue planet was no stranger to chaos. 

Ashton's remaining ships fought valiantly against the unrelenting onslaught of Precursor vessels. Eventually, it was evident Precursor ships were superior as only a handful of Ashton's Xyran ships remained, guarding Earth. The odds were against them, and the battle-weary fleet struggled to hold its ground.

Amidst the fierce clash, a new faction silently emerged, ready to join the chaotic dance of war. Xyran ships, controlled by the council, materialised behind the moon with a series of silent booms. 

Like Otiga had expected, the Xyrans couldn't stay out of action for long and decided to take advantage of Ashton's misery. Within hours, they rushed to capture Earth. 

But that wasn't all.