2891-2892 AU
The year of 2891 proved to be the first great test of the new 1st Colonial. Now a Major, Magnus and his elite regiment were often given the task of rooting out organized crime –
both in the Fringe and on Borderworlds. Soon into the year, political strife on Graedius began to threaten galactic stability. Exact details remain unknown, but a conflict arose between the various Clans and corporate factions within the Graedian Confederacy.
Although not a civil war, blood was eventually shed on Graedius itself when two camps emerged strongest – the militaristic Astyrs and the cunning Squires. Assassination and sabotage ran rampant across Graedius as the two vied for power over the Confederacy. Major Magnus Laren and the 1st Colonial were sent as Nebulan aid to the Astyrs, with whom they shared respect and interests. It was during this largely underground conflict that the 1st Colonial was dubbed Hell’s Legion by the Squires. At the end of several months of tense debates and intrigue, the Astyrs proved to be the weaker. Squire supporters rioted against the military Clan, regardless of its past patriotism and achievements, and sacked their compound and all its property. This was the only major incident of open violence, however brief. Days later, the riots diminished as the Astyrs abdicated. The Squires proceeded to despoil their rival – and most of their allies and enemies – and disperse the wealth to the people. Dean Astyr, the visible projection of Squire enmity, was stripped of his position, titles, and wealth, and went into exile thereafter. Outwardly, the newly dominant Squire Clan simply maintained Graedian government, but in reality had centralized the Confederacy as never before.
Magnus and his regiment were withdrawn at the height of the riots on request of Baron Dean Astyr. Thereafter, dread followed the 1st Colonial – especially its leader. It is believed that, for his efforts on Graedius, Magnus was promoted to Major General – the highest rank he would ever hold. Command transferred him back to his former duties; he remained largely on the Fringe for the next three years, during which the first attacks on border colonies began.
