Homecoming - Part 1

As Aiur came into his view, Executor Rydas sighed with sadness, noting the floating Zerg vessels that orbited his now-ruined homeworld, and the bright lights that dotted the surface, signifying burning Protoss cities. It seemed so long ago since he left Aiur, and now coming back made him feel depressed. Who would have known the Zerg would have finally found them?

Truth be told, he longed to see his homeworld again after the numerous victories he claimed against the Zerg within the farthest reaches of space. He longed to return to his birth place and feel the soft grass under his feet, breathe in the fresh fragrant air and reunite with old comrades and tell tales of their victories and experiences. Now it seemed like all his hopes were dashed.

"Executor, the fleet is prepared," called out his second-in-command, Praetor Yaren as he stood behind Rydas. Almost as old as Rydas was, Yaren was the best warriors Rydas has in his fleet and he was proud to serve with him throughout the years. They were almost inseparable, Rydas and Yaren. Everyone knew that fact, and respected it as much as they respected each other.

"Have all elements begin the assault immediately," Rydas replied, still gazing at the planet from the viewport. "Judicator Aldaris and Prelate Zeratul await us on the surface. The longer we delay, the faster they will fall."

"Yes, Executor."

"Once all the Zerg attackers have been dealt with, prepare the ground forces to secure the landing zone. Make sure all survivors have been rescued."

"I understand, Executor. I will lead the ground assault myself."

"You always do, Praetor. Now go. Our brethren are in peril."

As the Praetor turned away to leave, Rydas had a thought.
"And Yaren," he then added, just as Yaren was almost out of the door.

"Executor?" he enquired, curiously.

Rydas turned around to face the Praetor and sighed.

"Be careful, old friend."

Yaren chuckled to himself. "You need not worry of me, Rydas. En Taro Adun!"

Yaren left the room. Rydas turned back to face Aiur again. The Carriers had begun launching their offensive upon the Zerg's space force, a titanic clash between mighty Protoss ships and hordes of Zerg flyers bombarding each other. He sighed again. Truly this wasn't much of a homecoming.

"Take us into the battle," he ordered the ship's navigational drive. His flagship began to spin around like a lumbering giant as it moved to join the fleet. If this was how it was meant to be, then so be it. The Zerg will not find him lacking.