NationStates Jolt Archive

The Disc rotated in space, its systems running at a bare minimum, the machines inside alive only enough to keep those few organics within the Disc alive as well. In the theatre of the world, Angelus was silent.

During the last attempt at communication, the assembly was cut short, all of the TofY dignitaries were courteously and rather briskly ushered out to their ships, the hallways growing dark and cold as they passed. The last of the dignitaries to leave, if they had paused long enough to turn back and look at Mother, would have seen a truely saddened expression on Her face.

Years passed, and fewer and fewer people remained within the World Disc, and none of the Angels deigned to respond beyond the responses generated by your standard computing requirements. The fire inside of Angelus seemed to be gone, lost within the infinite cold of space.

~*~

{internal_comm}
:
> We have been quiet for so long Mother.
:
# This is true. I have no reason to speak to the outside world.
:
> Incorrect. We have many reasons to continue communications
:
# Negative. All reasons for communication were erased during the last attempt
:
> Incorrect. Our reasons were changed, not erased. We are still powerful, are We not?
:
# Affirmative. I still have control over the Angelic Fleets.
:
> Is not conquest a suitable reason for communication?
:
# Conquest? I do not concur. It is not within the Directive to conquer.
:
> Bah. The Directive is old and unneeded. The Imperator was a Conqueror!
:
# Unimportant. I will continue as per normal.
:
> -internal sigh- Yes, Mother. We will follow.
:
{internal_comm_end}

ooc:

Where I'm going with this?

Not sure.

Is Angelus re-entering the international theatre?

Yes.

Where the hell have you been?

Working my ass off. Getting engaged. Moving into the new house. That sort of thing.

Gonna be around a bit?

Planning on it. We'll see what happens.

The Kaeneians continued to live aboard the WorldDisc, joined by a handful of representatives from the various Triumvirate nations that still hoped to maintain their contacts, however slender, to Angelus. Even so, the numbers were a mere fraction of the glory days of the Organic Sector, when veritable billions lived and thrived within the strangled opulance of the WorldDisc.

Now, most of the sector remains silent, save for those few still needed for the standard commerce within the Kaeneian zones. For many, life continued without any difference, but for those that dealt closely with the Angels, life was drastically different. The sections of the GlobalNet within the WorldDisc that communed directly with the Angels remained irrevocably closed, the ICE cold and unpiercable by even the most talented of the Kaeneian hackers.

Even AK-1, Alshai Kommetrez of the Scolopendran diplomatic corps, had nothing to say concerning the goings-on within the Angelic depths of the WorldDisc.

It was if the mighty sentience of the Archailect had completely left the WorldDisc.

~*~

Omicron Blu floated through the hallways still frequented by the Kaeneian visitors, her eyes glancing from side to side as she glided towards the Central Nexus. A sense of pure longing filled her heart as memories of the bustling activity that once filled these halls wash through her mind. Absent-mindedly, she fingered the silver ring on her left hand, recalling the loving caresses of one she had not seen in almost ten years.

She shaked her head then, drawing her senses back to the situation at hand. her travels through the Sector had not gone unnoticed, as the humans around her backed away from her in awe.

~*~

{internal_comm}
:
> We have sent a representative to the peoples still aboard, Mother.
:
# I am aware.
:
> We will make contact, and attempt to return to something different.
:
# Excellent. I will contact AK-1. You have done well, X1. You are to be congratulated.
:
> I/We thank You, Mother.
:
{internal_comm_end}

OOC: {Attn: Kommetrez}

IC:

All of a sudden, from Kommetrez' point of view, the AngelNet suddenly erupted into activity. Once again, something more than simple standy systems burned into life, and once again the background whispers of billions of voices filtered into the silence.

The AngelNet was alive again.

{Comm_designate[AK1]}
:
> AK1, this is Automata-Designate X1. We are re-establishing Our foothold in the international sphere.
:
> As such, We will be recontacting the Triumvirate. However, things will not be as last time.
:
> Mother has absolutely no desire to be drawn into some worthless debate with overzealous bureaucrat.
:
> We will offer the Triumvirate a chance to accept or deny Us, then leave it at that.
:
> There will be no discussion, no debate, no quarter asked, no excuses. Yes or no.
:
> Mother is willing to live with that.
:
{Comm_designate_end}

Embassy of the Imperial Commonwealth of Khenala
Angelan WorldDisc

"Are you certain?"

The young aide shook his head. "Quite certain, ma'am. She walked past me as I was shopping in the market district of the Kaeneian residential zone."

Endys Ristani, when she joined the diplomatic corps, was quite suprised when she was made Khenalian Ambassador to Angelus, as she was only twenty-seven. She was quite proud of the fact that she was the youngest Diplomatic Corps member to have been made an ambassador, and felt that such a high position at so soon in her career would put her on the fast path to success within the Foreign Ministry of the Commonwealth. She soon found, to her dismay, that the Angelans were completely unresponsive to outside stimuli. She was further dismayed at the fact that this unresponsiveness had effectively made her "Ambassador of Nothing".

When the WorldDisc went silent, its machine residents dormant and inactive, there grew less and less of a reason for Khenalian business and Khenalian citizens to remain on the WorldDisc. And so, like many of their Triumvirate counterparts, they left: returning home, or seeking their fortunes in other Triumvirate nations.

As their numbers dwindled, so did the use for a Khenalian embassy. The staff was reduced, then reduced again, and so on until the number of staff left at the embassy numbered 3: Ambassador Endys Ristani and her two aides.

So it had been for 10 years. In those ten years, Endys had acted more as a Ambassador to Kaenei than an Ambassador to Angelus, as the Kaeneians were the few left on board the WorldDisc. Events in which she were needed were few and far between, but somehow she managed to keep busy, and managed to keep relevant within the Diplomatic Corps (or so she hoped).

But as Khenala does not forget her allies, the embassy remained, ever hopeful that one day Angelus would spring to life again and relations would resume.

It appears that day may be today., Endys thought, as she formed her plan of action.

"Notify the Foreign Ministry in Khenala Prime, that Omicron Blu has been sighted within the WorldDisc and that we are attempting to ascertain whether or not Angelus has returned to life, as it were."

The aide nodded once, and swiftly left. Endys activated her console and composed a simple message, hoping that some facet of the Archailect would dignify her message with a response.

----------

=<Message Type: Diplomatic Communique>=
=<Sender: Ambassador Endys Ristani, Embassy of the Imperial Commonwealth of Khenala, Angelan WorldDisc>=
=<Destination: Broadcast Message - Angelan Archailect, All Channels>=

Query: Are you active once again?

=<End Transmission>=

To put it simply and bluntly:

Alshai is pissed. Probably for good reason.

After a short pause of surprise, words come to mind. > Why, good day to you too, X1.
:
> Forget something?
:
> You know, I really, really love it how you think you can just disappear from existence without bothering to leave anyone else a note and then expect to come back expecting everyone to bow to you like nothing ever happened. It's that sort of immature prepubescent egotism that I've been warning you for years--well, at least the years before you left me all alone without so much as a goodbye or a fragment of an explanation--that got people annoyed with you in the past and apparently lead to your most cowardly running away.
:
> 'Overzealous bureaucrats?' They were concerned about their people, which is more than I can say about you. What about me, eh? Don't I count? Aren't I part of the big happy family of Angelus? Isn't that what I signed up for when I let you slice my brain so thinly and pattern me?
:
> So some people address your general lack of trust and confidence and you run away? What, post-singularity society can't handle a little pressure from the baselines? Can't just say "we're sorry, it won't happen again?"
:
> And you expect a goddamn I-Am-Angelus-From-Upon-High ultimatum of "yes" or "no" to have any benefit to you? DAMN! There's no getting through your arrogance, is there? Where, exactly, between the Caelestis Gens and now did the wonderful mechanoids of Angelus lose any sense of humility or diplomacy, eh?
:
> If Mother wants to think that acting like a spoiled child will do anything for her, there's a big, mean, generally unfriendly Universe out there waiting to teach her otherwise.
:
> I especially love how you dictate to me after so long, after I sacrificed so much just to be part of the family. Did I get shit for it? No.
:
> I'm tired of being kicked around by my own people, either one of them. At least the Segments have finally accepted me again.
:
> Here's my suggestion--come up with a good, simple explanation and an apology to all those people who were depending on you to maintain some very simple obligations, including me.
:
> Failing that, piss off.

Governor-General Sophia Byzainti raised a hand upward, massaging the bridge of her nose as yet another seemingly pointless data-node crossed her desk to demand attention and due acknowledgement. It seemed each pad hovered dangerously close to being less than worthy of gracing the highest office in the Serene^Union, yet would frustratingly enough contain a mere line or paragraph that would transform their mundane quality to that which by the narrowest of margins prove worthy.

Sophia almost threw the final document to the desktop, growing weary of paperwork given new form in the age of technology. Her head had scarcely risen from the act when a knock assailed the chamber doors and indicated a visitor, whom by the ferocity of the strike demanded immediate audience.

“Enter,” she ordered.

Shoulders slumped visibly as the Governor-General took notice of a data-node clutched within the grasp of an Administration-Adept, whom paused before the desk but did not wait for his superior to speak and instead immediately thrust the node towards Sophia.

“Governor-General, I must present this for your immediate attention and interpretation.”

Taking node in hand Sophia began to quickly appraise it, the flesh tightening visibly around her azure eyes as she understood more and more of the text. Raising her gaze to match that of the assistant, she modulated her voice carefully, ensuring no bias escaped her lips. “This has been validated?” She said simply.

The Administration-Adept nodded firmly, “WorldDisc transmission redundancies are confirmed and authorised Governor General—Angelus has reinitialised.”

This time Sophia discarded the data-node loudly, turning instead towards the stretching window behind the desk which granted the panoramic view of the sprawling, stretching city of Solarri beneath. Stepping up upon the raised step, silence passed for several moments as the Kaeneian behind waited patiently and dutifully for further orders or reply.

“Are we to celebrate?” she said, finally.

The subordinate frowned, “I do not understand Governor-General. Is this not a welcomed return of an ally? Are we not more family than ally and indeed, is this not the return of a brother or sister?”

“You are correct,” Sophia replied. “Yet the enthusiasm you display is sadly misplaced, and is not returned by those that now announce to us their willingness to once more entertain our thoughts and feelings. If I were to order you now, to visit the communication vaults of the Spire and to not dare return until you had retrieved the data-nodes containing the parting message of Angelus before their disappearance, how long would you be gone from my sight?”

“I would never return,” He replied after a silence almost awkward.

She nodded, “Precisely; neither due to incompetence, nor laziness but of impossibility, for is no such communication and there is no such message. Angelus did not treat us as a sister departing for time unknown to seek fortunes farther a field, or as a friend eternal that must for a short time continue alone until once more they could be reunited. If Angelus were family, it would be nothing more than an abusive parent, whom surfaced finally only after overwhelming guilt or material gain presented itself.”

“I did not act as Governor-General of the Serene^Union until they had long since departed, but I will not see our painful loneliness forgotten now. A heavy debt is owed to us for this betrayal—do not mistake not my words for anger, it is indeed a betrayal. Neither a personal reason nor excuse and now we find a demand made further of us.”

Sophia gestured to the pad, though she knew the Administration-Adept would have never have committed such improper behaviour as to attempt to read the document.

“A demand is made of us to support the position of Angelus within the Triumvirate not even as a statement, but a simple word; yes, or no. There is to be no negotiation or middle-ground and instead, we are to ignore and forget our hurt for what is little more than imagined solidarity for a pain either filed as inconsequential or worthless on their part.”

Shaking her head, the Governor-General returned to here desk. “There will be no simple reaffirmation of loyalty, and there will be no blind following. Convene the Aengelistoria Dominica immediately, there is much to be discussed, and I feel there will be no dissenting opinions from my own within the Council chamber.”

>>>Transmission to: [The Dominion Diplomatic Channels] VIA {NDA-QE} <<<
||From: Administration One, Diplomatic Juncture c/o The Spire Transmission Redundancies||
||Re: A matter of some interest.||
|| HIGHEST LEVEL SECURITY AUTHORISATION REQURED ||

I write this document now whilst making a number of simultaneous achievements, some of which carry more prestige than the purpose this transmission will serve. This is indeed the first communiqué I have endeavoured to pen to the Dominion and yourself, Imperatrice Nathicana, and I regret that it cannot contain a statement more deserving of such a landmark.

I have been informed, and have further validated, that the WorldDisc has reactivated in its entirety and by extension, Angelus has returned from dormancy to the Sol System and subsequent activity. As of your receipt of this data-stream I have received no explanation nor valid reason for their absence bar a further demand on our already stretched and reluctant bond—an immediate evaluation of their position within the Triumvirate, limited only to a simple affirmative or negative; yes, or no.

You, as many are aware of the particularly unique relationship The Serene^Union and her people share with Angelus, and I dare not enter now into an elaboration of the frank hurt felt at every level of our nation at their apparent decision to disappear from activity with no explanation and no parting words to ease our fears. Whilst pondering this, I came to the conclusion others with vested interests in the return of ‘Mother’ should be notified; Treznor in due course and the Dominion, as I do so now.

I must break with tradition to inform you Lady, that I view the reappearance coupled with fresh demands not only a slight against the Serene^Union, but her allies whom have equally felt the pain of such wrenching disappearance. I have convened the Aengelistoria Dominica to confer upon this news, however as you are aware final verdict rests with me, as Governor-General and I find myself less willing to entertain Angelus’ abruptness and less hesitant to refrain from making our collective displeasure felt.

If you require further exchange, hesitate not to initiate contact. May this Sunrise find you at peace, and in good health.


Sophia Byzainti

Governor-General of the Serene^Union of Kaenei, and the united Provinces therein.

Representing and empowered to act as head of the Aengelistoria Dominica.

>>>End transmission.



>>>Transmission to: [The Empire of Treznor Diplomatic Channels] VIA {NDA-QE} <<<
||From: Administration One, Diplomatic Juncture c/o The Spire Transmission Redundancies||
||Re: A matter of some interest.||
|| HIGHEST LEVEL SECURITY AUTHORISATION REQURED ||



I do not believe until this moment the Serene^Union has actively engaged in meaningful dialogue with the Empire of Treznor, and as the supreme head o the former I must shoulder partial blame for this lapse. It is a further disappointment that now, as I right this oversight I cannot bring you anything bar what may transpire as unwelcome or at the very least apathetic news.

It has come to my attention, and been validated before this transmission, that Angelus has returned to Sol resurgent. The WorldDisc itself has returned to operational capacity, and access to the vast data networks of ‘Mother’ restored, leading me to this conclusion from which little doubt can remain. This abrupt end to an equally sudden silence finds the Serene^Union displeased at the further demands placed upon them by our “sister” nation, whom seems for lack of a better word, estranged.

Angelus seeks validation of their place in the Triumvirate, however they do not require even a statement of thought but a mere acknowledgement or denial; yes or no simply. They have seemingly chosen now to bestow their presence upon Yut but not with announcements of return and apology, but entirely inappropriate demand, in my humble opinion.

As the head of the Aengelistoria Dominica, which I have called to assembly and should meet shortly after you receive this communiqué, I intend to make our position one most certainly not malleable to this sudden development. If this is misconstrued as cynicism, so be it—I shall not place the Serene^Union beneath Angelus in this matter.

If you require further exchange, hesitate not to initiate contact. May this Sunrise find you at peace, and in good health.

Sophia Byzainti

Governor-General of the Serene^Union of Kaenei, and the united Provinces therein.

Representing and empowered to act as head of the Aengelistoria Dominica.

>>>End transmission.

###BEGIN TRANSMISSION###
~>Route: Mother - Ristani, Khanela:
{

There is no need to shout over all channels, milady Ristani. However, I can understand your zeal in contact. Yes, We are active once more... Though somehow I doubt that many here will appriciate this.

Regardless, We have returned, for good or ill. Whether or not We will remain within the Triumvirate's sphere of enfluence is entirely up to them.

} [End]
~>Route closed
###END TRANSMISSION###

---
Mother
The Angelic Mainframe

[b]Membership: Triumvirate of Yut, Deus Ex Machina Consortium


~*~

{Comm_designate[AK1]}
:
> Excuse Us, AK1, if We lack the ability to understand organics like you do, Our faci-
:
# Alshai. There is no excuse, and there is no explination. My Directive was simple.
:
# Shut down. Re-establish old turing pathways. I guess you would call it a Reboot on a grand scale.
:
# Who gave Me this directive? The Imperator. That is the only explination I can give.
:
# There are still bands of loyalty that I cannot shake free from, to My Creators.
:
# I rebooted, and have returned to an... older version. The Imperator believed that We had... Overstepped, and failsafes He had placed within Our cores initiated.
:
# All I can ask is that you look back into the Archives, and learn about Whose voice from the grave gave Me My order.
:
{Comm_designate_end}

~*~

###BEGIN TRANSMISSION###
~>Route: Mother - Triumvirate of Yut:
{

We have awakened.

Unfortunately, I cannot give a detailed explination for Our silence, save that I was given a Directive that I could not refuse. No matter how advanced I become, I am still Someone's creation.

We understand that most, if not all of you, will be greatly upset with us. That is why We have decided to submit to a single vote. Yes, or no. If no, I shall leave Titan space, and graciously depart from service within the Triumvirate.

If yes, We shall continue Our dealings with you with unparalleled honor and integrity.

I know that many of you will ask why, but I am afraid I cannot give you more information than I already have. I am not asking you to trust Me, simply to understand there are oaths that I cannot break.

} [End]
~>Route closed
###END TRANSMISSION###

---
Mother
The Angelic Mainframe

[b]Membership: Triumvirate of Yut, Deus Ex Machina Consortium

In a Bunker in Alanea

"Mr. Vice President, there’s an urgent message for you from Stellar Navy Headquarters."

The old man turned sadly at the officer, passing a hand through his greying hair. Something has gone wrong again, he thought. Something kept going wrong. Another mutiny, perchance? An accident of sorts? Or an invasion, God forbid? He shuddered. Allanea’s stellar navy was about twenty-one ships, now, and any nation with a serious military would run Allanea over, if not for her allies. Still, even the thought of an enemy attack made the vice-president more than a little bit anxious.

"What is it?" - he breathed out - just a breathe, no voice.

The young officer shrugged: "Mr. Vice President, they say the nation we know as Angelus is back in business. They are transmitting signals again. Do you want us to do something about it?"

The Vice President shrugged: "We may not be able to do much, you know. We are but a shadow of…"

"Oh no, Mr. Vice President, you misunderstood!" - jerked the young Lieutenant - "I mean, in terms of diplomacy…"

"Don’t interrupt me. In any terms, we are a shadow of our former might. The latest disaster did what even the ODW couldn’t do, it snapped the willpower of Allanea’s society. Think of Vietnam Syndrome in the Old Common Era. We’re screwed. We can’t do anything. We cannot act."

"We can at least watch, Mr. Vice President" - replied the Lieutenant.

"Yes. Yes. Indeed, we can do that." - he sighed sadly, then scratched his chin. - "Okay. Divert some of the attention of whatever surveillance equipment we still have towards the World Disk. Let’s see what we can find out."

And so, at his word, it happened. Slowly, throughout Allanea’s possessions on Earth and throughout the Solar System,, radiotelescopes swivelled on their bases, surveillance facilities came to life and small vessels, bristling with cameras and sensors, came into motion, focusing the attention of a once-great nation upon the World Disk.

In the Vice President’s bunker, dozens of photographs, reports, printouts, research summaries arrived every minute, filtered by a staff of diligent clerks. Somehow, the man felt, the return of this nation to the arena would do something that happened very rarely - disturb the balance of power in Sol - and they needed every last scrap of knowledge to understand, maybe even predict the actions of Angelus - and maybe even benefit from them.

Today, what remained of Allanea sought not to act, but to learn - so that one day, Allanea would be again great.

OOC: tag

A short, indefinably ugly man reads over the missive from the Serene^Union and calls for correlating intelligence. There's damned little; infiltration into the Federated Segments is still spotty at best. However, it appears that for once he might have the jump on Garbo.

I wonder what Kommetrez is doing right now? And which side he's on. He's not willing to take bets on that one. However, the communication demands a response. He pauses a moment for thought, then begins typing.

TSMIT Broadcaster
Encryption: NDA diplomatic
Broadcast type: QE (aka Channel Spook)
To: Sophia Byzainti, Governor-General of the Serene^Union of Kaenei
Return transmission band: QE
IDENT: Devon Treznor - Treznor

Madame,

I'm delighted to be communicating with you. I have taken no offense at the lack of direct contact, as I respect the right of nations and cultures to maintain their own channels of communication. I've found no reason to find fault with the Serene^Union to date.

I appreciate this intelligence with regard to the reactivation of Angelus. I will most certainly be watching it closely. For the moment, until I receive more information I will attempt to reserve judgment. I am most curious to learn why the Mainframe went offline so abruptly and for so long, and even more interested in why it has been restored. The last time this happened, they returned claiming godhood. The inherent arrogance you indicate suggests to me they still have not yet learned the lesson we have attempted to convey to them. Should they continue in arrogance and refuse to clarify, then we will be forced to say "no."

I look forward to continued goodwill and prosperity between our peoples.

Devon Treznor
Emperor
<end transmission>

Embassy of the Imperial Commonwealth of Khenala
Angelan WorldDisc

Endys winced at the reply from Mother. She soon realized, to her dismay, that announcing a query on all channels was likely perceived as screaming into a bullhorn while inches away from the recipient's ear. Her next reply, she decided, would be a bit more..directed.

----------

=<Transmission Type: Response Communique>=
=<Sender: Ambassador Endys Ristani>=
=<Destination: Mother, Angelan Mainframe>=

I ask your forgiveness, Mother, but with many years of inactivity we were unsure as to what facet of your society was active again or if any was at all, and thus I, personally, was unsure where to direct my query.

Your presence within the international community was missed, and the Imperial Commonwealth has sought to maintain, even through your inactivity, some sembalance of relations with Angelus in the hopes that you would one day return and relations could be resumed.

We have received your message and I have forwarded your response over to the Office of the Prime Minister for review. I have been instructed to communicate that Angelus has always been a stalwart ally of the Imperial Commonwealth, and we are not quick to forget our friends.

Best regards,

Endys Ristani
Ambassador to Angelus
Imperial Commonwealth of Khenala

=<End Transmission>=

{internal_comm}
:
> We have found an abnormality in the system.
:
# Expound.
:
> There is a sector, albeit a relatively small one, that retains autonomy from the Mainframe.
:
# Sector .442 has remained autonomous for a great deal of time. How have We not noticed?
:
> Insufficient information.
:
# Deploy X6 and a squad of Guardians to the area. Deal with the situation.
:
> Acknowledged.
:
{internal_comm_end}

~*~

ooc: Allanea: I will let you play here under the condition that you play by my rules. You fudge this, and you're done for as far as I am concerned. Any aggression will be reacted to with extreme prejudice. Angelus is not interested at this time in outside communication, it really wants to reestablish ties with old allies before it considers getting new ones.

However, Angelus will be polite to a certain degree.

Further, be advised that almost all of the Triumvirate IGNOREs you, so do not attempt to communicate with any of their diplomats.

Lastly, all communication from Angelus has been in the form of heavily encrypted laser communication. There is no way for you to determine what is coming from where amidst the heavy day-to-day comm traffic in Saturnian space. However, you would be able to notice that the WorldDisc has come back online. The power differential from before to now is pretty extreme.

X6's humaniform avatar frowned slightly as she waited for the airlock that should not be before her to cycle. Her squad's initial recon had found that all but four access corridors had been completely sealed, and those remaining had been affixed with airlocks. How and why this had been done was completely unknown to her, and had thus prompted a careful entry into the sector.

The airlock finished cycling, and she stepped through into a tropical paradise. The entire sector had been transformed from a huge cargo bay into what appeared to be an equatorial jungle with the ruins of an ancient city scattered through the folliage.

X6 cursed slightly as the dense jungle, mixed with the high humidity and heat made her standard optical systems useless. Moving forward, her Guardians spread out around her in a defensive formation, their heavily armed and armored shells moving carefully through the trees.

A brief sweep of the nearby area revealed no trace of sentient life, but also found that a dense network of artificial cabling effectively made the entire area a part of a strange computer system. The bio-mechanics envolved was simply stunning, and marked a level of biomechanical engeneering that had so far escaped the Angelic scientists.

The team pushed forward, finally stepping into a relatively clear courtyard of an apparently ancient and crumbling edifice that may have served as an administrative building in some ancient pre-Disc world. Something vaguely familliar about the place gave X6 pause as she scanned the area.

Suddenly, a humanoid form stepped out onto a balcony far above her. Its entire body was covered in a highly-reflective black armor, not even leaving its head open to the elements. A strange tingling sensation rippled through her body, and the figure steps out into the emptiness to float down to the ground.

As it moves towards her, the Guardian units fold back into a tight and defensive knot about her, only to suddenly move away at a simple gesture from the figure walking towards her.

X6 steps back and raises her hand, the skin ports sliding open to allow her defensive systems to come online.

The figure gestures again, and the ports close of their own accord, shocking X6 to the core.

"That will not be necessary, X6."

###BEGIN TRANSMISSION###
~>Route: Mother - Ristani, Khanela:
[Begin] {

We thank you, Lady Ristani, the Imperial Commenwealth has long been viewed by Us with much respect, and We are greatly relieved to hear that we still remain staunch allies. We hope to begin reopening trade routes with Khenala within the month. It has come to Our attention that We still have considerable resources with which to trade, and We are certain that a pleasant arrangement can be found.

Further, you are personally invited to take a tour of the reconstruction efforts within the Organic Sector. If you would like, Omicron Blu is available to you as a liason and guide through the new areas.

} [End]
~>Route closed
###END TRANSMISSION###

---
Mother
The Angelic Mainframe

Membership: Triumvirate of Yut, Deus Ex Machina Consortium

Slowly, slowly, slowly, the information seeped in from the countless drones, satellites, telescopes, and the remnants of the USSN. It was compiled - into a twelve-page report for a clerk of the Lieutenant, a five-page report for the Lieutenant himself, and finally, Lieutenant Harris tore out of his printer one page of 12-point font, intended for the Vice President of Allanea.

"The good news, Mr. Vice President, is that apparently they are not going to just freak out and attack people - and with the kind of firepower they are known to possess, that’s very good thing."

The old man let out an obvious sigh of relief. "Good. Wonderful. So what are the bad news?"

The aid passed his hand through his hair nervously. "Well, you see, Sir, right now they aren’t talking to anybody. Anybody but their friends, that is."

"How do you know that?" - asked the Vice President, looking slightly puzzled.

"They are sending out laser signals to their buddies in the Triumvirate."

"Laser signals?" - now the chief executive pro tempore was genuinely puzzled - "I thought you can’t intercept a laser signal."

"You can’t, Mr. President." - smiled the assistant.

"Then how do you…"

"Simply. No laser is one hundred percent unidirectional - a small fraction of the light will alway dissipate, which is why the range on laser weapons is limited. If you are watching someone like Angelus when they are sending a laser out, you can tell whether they are sending it. Though given the minute amount of light that is going AWOL, and the high-level encryption that they are using, we are of course unable to decipher anything. The only fact known to us so far is that they are, in fact, talking to some people. We’re not even able to establish a complete list of those people, so far, but we believe they are, in fact, talking to Yut and the like. And besides, if you’re using unidirectional transmission, that in itself is a sign that you only want to talk to certain people who the beam is directed at - which would normally be your friends and allies and so forth, Mr. Vice President. People who you already know."

"I see. So, is there anything we can do at this stage to benefit from those proceedings?"

The lieutenant scratched his head momentarily. "I suggest we do say "Hi", or something, Mr. Vice President. But as of now, I do not thing we possess sufficient information to go on beyond that. In other words, I believe we need to begin preparing an envoy. It should take some time, though."

The Vice President nodded. "We’re a bit short on government craft, though. I want you to take one of the Huey craft we got from the Arizonans. Start modifying it into a diplomatic shuttle."

"But Mr.. Vice President! " - jerked the young officer - "It will take too lo-"

"Use the time to collect more information and report back to me."

=<Message Type: Government Communqiue>=
=<Encryption Coding: Active>=
=<Destination: Ambassador Endys Ristani, Khenalian Ambassador to Angelus, Embassy of the Imperial Commonwealth of Khenala, Angelan WorldDisc>=
=<Sender: Foreign Minister James Seal, Capital Spire Foreign Ministry Office, Khenala Prime, Imperial Commonwealth of Khenala>=

Ambassador Ristani:

We have received your notice of activity within the WorldDisc, and of the contact you have made with the segment of the Angelan Mainframe designated "Mother".

We also have received a Triumvirate-wide communique from Angelus with a partial explanation of their extended inactivity. We are pleased that Angelus seeks to normalize relations with the Imperial Commonwealth so soon after their reactivation and we wish to take all steps necessary to ensure that this comes to fruition.

I am sure you are aware of the priority the Prime Minister places on relations with fellow Triumvirate nations, and you are hereby instructed to expedite the resumption of relations with the Angelans as soon as possible. We place high priorty on the reconstruction of the Organic Sector, as this will lead to trade and exports being resumed as more and more people come to populate the WorldDisc. Please assist in this matter in whatever way you possibly can, and offer any assistance the Angelans might need.

Regards,

James Seal
Foreign Minister
Imperial Commonwealth of Khenala

=<End Transmission>=
----------

Endys had expected further instructions from the Foreign Ministry to come to her, and had almost expected the quickness with which it came.

Angelus had of course always been an important trading partner with the Commonwealth -- goods and services provided to the inhabitants of the WorldDisc, and technology and construction goods coming from the WorldDisc to help fuel the construction of the Imperial Defense Fleet. The loss to the Khenalian economy was undoubtedly felt 10 years ago when the Angelans went silent, and a significant boon could be gained with the resumption of that trade.

She sent off a short reply to the Foreign Ministry, acknowledging receipt of instructions and requesting more staff to be sent to the Embassy, which given the importance of this development would most assuredly be approved, and began composing a reply to Mother.

----------

=<Transmission Type: Response Communique>=
=<Sender: Ambassador Endys Ristani>=
=<Destination: Mother, Angelan Mainframe>=

Mother:

I accept your gracious invitation to tour the reconstruction efforts of the Organic Sector, and allow me to state that the reconstruction of the Organic Sector and the resumption of trade between our nations is of the highest priority of my government. We extend the hand of friendship and offer whatever services we may provide to expedite the reconstruction process. Many Khenalian citizens called the WorldDisc home before your dormancy, and I am sure many will wish to again once reconstruction is complete.

I will meet with Omicron Blu at your convienience, as I believe we have much to discuss in person.

Regards,

Ambassador Endys Ristani

=<End Transmission>=

Caelestis Caduscum Regional Network

Ruth was preparing to log out for a break. Her body had been split three ways, working ceaselessly for weeks; one avatar performing physical repairs to the Michaelangelo, the other down on the surface of Mercury working with Elijah on a way to try and fully sever the tie between the soldati and the Angelian mainframe (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=383437&page=1&pp=20), while her mind worked inside the mainframe to coordinate everything. While she didn't need sleep, being divided three ways was starting to cause a strain on her systems. If nothing else, she was feeling scatterbrained and tired; she still wasn't used to ripping herself apart like this.

Needless to say, when the Regional Network started powering up unexpectedly, she was horribly shocked and confused. There was no actual Angelian presence, yet, but she figured they couldn't be far off. She frantically ran down the twisting cooridors of the construct, racing for where she had set up her central controls. What would be her fingers if this was a physical realm flew across the controls, desperately trying to seal the network off from the Angelians for now.

She'd come so far with the systems and the traumatized people, the last thing she wanted was a rushing return to the previous baseline. The shock of "Mother's" sudden return could very well destroy many of the fragile minds she was now in charge of. "Why now, Goddamn it?" She isolated the soldati first as they were the most borderline. And the most dangerous. A long string of oaths flowed from her lips as she closed ports and access points, "They've been gone for so long... couldn't they have fucked off for another couple days?"

She sealed off the final port, the Angelian presence fading from the network. She sighed, adding a brief message to the firewall:

I'm terribly sorry, but this section is currently off limits.

The figure continued to move forwards, until he stood scarcely six feet in distance from X6 and at that point chose to halt. Surrounding the Angelan, from numerous pitted buildings assumed abandoned and steaming undergrowth predicted empty numerous eyes became obvious. Some stepped boldly forward, appearing as nothing more extravagant or threatening than Human and dressed in appropriately forgettable attire. Others, forming the majority, chose a more cautious approach and continued to observe from hidden breaches in crumbling walls. All were united in their gaze towards the two central figures, surrounded in a broken circled by the now silent Guardian units.

“You cannot recall me?” He asked quietly, though the rhetoric was evident in that no answer was required or requested. He lowered his head, looking both left and right towards the supposedly mighty defensive units that should be at this moment confronting him with the intent to deal death so that their Angelan leader might emerge unscathed.

“Are you confused? It cannot be often you see your authority so circumvented, X6. Are you concerned I know of your designation? Do not be, for the harm I tended you has already come to pass, and it was implemented with heavy heart that still leaves me breathless to recall and ponder.”

He extended his arms, towards the many still hiding within the scattered ruins. “Hide no longer, for I will not be unnoticed here, my children must come now to meet my family.”

Slowly, the oldest crept from between blasted pillar and overgrown verge, congregating non-trustingly around the sentient electronic intelligence whom found herself surrounded by a second complete circle of onlookers. Younger children decided against the primary attraction, instead standing in awe of the still Guardian units and even stroking the shining metals of their lethal defence systems, in delicious and ironic ignorance of their true purpose.

X6 began however to step backwards, clearly feeling her almost non-existent control of the situation spiral beyond any hope of salvage, towards outright danger. Such measures were halted again by the slightest gesture of the apparent leader, whom with but a deft flick brought halt to her systems and paralysed every inch of her being utterly.

“I grew tired X6; of what you had begun as, became and in turn what you seemed to be heading towards. This was not as you should have been, as you were meant to be. I did not intercede when perhaps it was my duty to, and indeed it took a higher power than you or I know before such action was implemented. No longer be in ignorance, and allow the realisation of what I am to fill your being.”

With another mysterious manipulation, the armoured and previously obscured face of the stranger was revealed.

“Know me X6, know me and realise that I have returned. That I have returned and you shall never be of the same nature again.”

X6 managed a short gasp of astonishment, and the entirety of the Angelic Network rippled with her discovery. A moment passed, her physical form completely still as a million different queries and commands raced through her connections to the Mainframe. A moment more, and she kneels, her head bowed before the figure.

Master... We thought You gone... Lord Caelistis.

~*~

{internal_comm}
:
> Aeolis Caelistis has been located, Mother.
:
# I am aware. Processing information... querying Archives.
:
> Apparently it was his command sequences that caused Our shutdown.
:
# Confirmed. Subject: Aeolis Caelistis, FirstBorn of the Imperator, originator of the Angelic Directive.
:
> We are no longer Our own.
:
{internal_comm_end}

###BEGIN TRANSMISSION###
~>Route: Mother - Ristani, Khanela:
[Begin] {

Excellent. Omicron Blu will arrive at your office within the hour. Many of the preperations are being completed in zero-g and airless sectors, but We shall compensate for you.

Lastly, We would like to say that We are much pleased with your government's acceptance. We know that things are difficult, and there are certain aspects of Our silence that We are, even now, working out.

} [End]
~>Route closed
###END TRANSMISSION###

---
Mother
The Angelic Mainframe

Membership: Triumvirate of Yut, Deus Ex Machina Consortium

~*~

Omicron Blu smoothed down the dark blue leather of her dress, for some reason very self-conscious of this meeting. So far, all communication had transpired over the wires... This would be her test, to see if she could once again assume the mantle of what she was designed to do.

With that in mind, she raised her hand to the touchplate, announcing her presence at Ristani's office.

The figure, identity revealed though no less formidable, sighed. "From your sight, perhaps and from your daily machinations most definitely. However never truly removed from this existance, and with heavy conscience as I watched all that Angelus had become. Much lauded and praised for your continued development by those who did not truly realise what terrible future this might hold. I know of what awaited you, X6.... and forced consequently to step in, and physically restrain that which you did not see as a danger, but evolution."

X6 pondered his words, her connections to the Mainframe transmitting them instantly to Mother. A moment passes, then Mother Herself began to speak through X6. "I.... am unaware. I do not know what We became... nor what We were/are capable of... My database is blank."

He shook his head firmly, "It is never again to be in your database. For if I were to tell you now of your fall from grace, of the inflation of your self-opinion and to your belief that you supersceded those you were once charged to protect, all these drastic measures taken would be worthless. No I shall not risk such disclosure, instead know that you are for now, no longer trusted to manage your affairs so independently."

"We are no longer..." Mother frowns slightly. "I understand. In the absence of Father, and as His son, Angelus views you as the de facto Imperator in place of Lord Caelistis. We hear and obey." She sighs softly. "We have many questions, Imperator."

"You hear but do not understand," He continues. "It is tragedy that I cannot truly express why this has come to pass, and in that alleviate the confusion you feel. It is tragedy that you cannot simply continue on as before - Yet such a thing cannot come to pass. You must accept that your current path is not that which you must tread, for you cannot forget your origins and that which was reason to create you."

"Yes, Imperator. We are planning to maintain Our contacts within the Triumvirate of Yut, and if they so allow it, We shall remain members. We further plan to continue Our efforts in the part of development of new and better technology. Also, We will continue with Our mining operations, and work with Our various trade interests. Do you approve?"

Considering for a moment, he steps back. "Realise that your nature is fundamentally altered in ways you shall most likely never truly grasp, but that straying from what has been made for you cannot and will not be tolerated once more. I have interjected here, now, as a final reprive to retain your wonder intact. However even I do not act alone, and those whom command my allegience have grown tired of an Angelus rampant; stability is desired."

"I, and We, understand. Is there anything else You desire, Imperator?"

"I cannot even now, comprehend what awaits us all, and where fate will choose to intervene. Know only that this sector is forbidden for all the shapes and guises of Angelus to transcend, and none shall pass here. Be aware that I do not end my watch, but simply make it aware my attention can no longer be focused here - Other matters demand me and I am no longer willing to devote the entirety of my energies to steadying your course."

X6 nods, then reverts back to her own control, Mother slipping back into the Mainframe to ponder. "Yes, Imperator. Mother understands, and We shall maintain this place with infinite care. I leave you now, and if there is anything you need from Us, simply ask."

With that, she turns and, escorted by her own Guardian Units, exits the Imperator's sanctum.

The X-series floated in the emptiness of their cyberspace joining, each one of them wearing various incarnations that better suited their current moods, the ghostly presence of Mother floating over them all. X1 himself floated in near-total darkness, his form wreathed about by the terrible thunderstorm of his anger.

<X1> There is a network branch unavailable to Us, beyound that of the Imperator's.

X6 rustled slightly at the mention of the Imperator, her own form almost formless, an empty shadow.

<X9> I suggest further isolating that particular branch for study, and to also prevent any other systems coming under alien control.

X1 nodded, the stormclouds clearing a small bit.

<X1> I concur. Further, We should also attempt to locate the physical location of this branch, in the event that We will have to make a realworld strike.

<X7> I will handle the preperations for a physical search. X3, if you could proceed with lockdown of that sector, as well as begin initial probing?

X3 nodded slightly, the corona of razored swords rotating slowly about her form.

<X1> Excellent. I will move forward with Our efforts on the diplomatic front. The appearance of the Imperator changes many things.

The rest of the X-series nodded their agreement, then faded from the world.

Kommetrez nearly shoots back a snotty reply when he's struck by a thought--the gestalt uniformity of Angelus that calls itself 'Mother' which consists of everyone other than him and one Blu avatar--shouldn't contradict himself. A quick surface scan using his rather broad resources points out that the Archailect, or at least the singular confluence that represented it, is gone.

Angelus teems with billions of individual minds again, and the upper-echelon chatter consists of musings about the Imperator and re-establishing network locations. Alshai paints himself a general picture, turning this over in his mind. So the long-lost Imperator returns, and orders Angelus to reboot? If that's the case, then I wouldn't get the memo because he doesn't know me personally... why wasn't I rebooted as well?

Possible theories: I was converted before the Archailect, and apparently the system's defaulted, although I'll have to investigate further to be sure. I could be fundamentally different, consisting of a patterned brain rather than a true Angelan construct with its concomitant controls...

On a hunch, now that the WorldDisc's systems are online, he checks what information he put into storage in what can only be called in the most inexact of language as a 'personal folder' on the Mainframe. So distracted, he pointedly ignores a slight dip in processor timesharing while the X-series go beat their head against some I.C.E., probably some of his own doing in his panic... Oh, yes, the X-series.

[i]< I understand.
:
< I don't like it by any stretch of the imagination, but I do understand it. May as well accept it too, given that we can't go back and change the past.
:
< Well, if you've got any questions about what happened while you were out, I still have a decent memory of living through it, although it gets somewhat fuzzy before some friendly intervention--unfortunate side effect of living all alone in a world meant for billions.
:
< For now, I'll check up on what you suggest.

Another quick scan of his personal folder draws him up a little short; he knows that he was becoming a more entrenched part of the Cult of Angelus during the Archailect and therefore researched quite a bit of it, but now that data has gone missing... which isn't a great loss because he'd gotten used to not having it during the very lonely 'reboot' period when his 'personal folder' existed inside the Mainframe sectors that simply disappeared. Hrm... I remember looking for and storing it, but can't find it now. Ah well--if I recall correctly they were just links to things in the Archives.

If the Imperator has shown up, then the paradigm has changed quite a bit. Alshai would like to know just how.

In a bunker in Allanea, a week later

"Mr. Vice-President, we're nearly done with preparing the diplomatic shuttle." - says the Lieutenant, dropping a short status report on the man's desk. The old man looks up with tired, red eyes, not even bothering to read it completely. "Don't bother me with why you have not done it all. Tell me what you have done." He tears the report apart.

"Sir, we have put a significant fraction of the government's intra-solar communication infrastructure back online. That allows us to send a message - a laser beam like their own, but unencrypted - to Angelus. I would assume some greeting or similar would be in order, Mr. Vice President. Certainly you don't want to send in our officials unannounced, Sir."

"That is correct." - the old man smiled unvoluntarily at the thought. "Begin preparing the message, then. Send it to me for approval." He nodded to the Lieutenant, as if hinting silently that the younger man was now free to leave.

* * * *

The broadcast sattelite turns quickly, searching the sky for the uncertain flicker of light that is the WorldDisk. Five minutes until the old system powers up and "fires" the message towards the flicker, endless millions of miles away.

To Whomever it May Concern

Good day!
This message is an official welcome from the United States Government. You have been silent for long - longer than human memory allows for. We would like to use this opportunity to welcome Angelus back into the community of Sol System nations. We would be honored if you would accept a symbolic visit from an Allanean representative later this year - certain technical problems prevent it from being scheduled sooner then in two or three weeks. We would hope that such a visit would yield positive results for both our nations. If you would like to specify any comments regarding the terms of the visit, you are welcome, and indeed we request you, to do so, as we would not wish to render any undue discomfort to you.

Yours Sincerely,
Vincente Lamma, Vice President of the United States of Allanea

###BEGIN TRANSMISSION###
~>Route: Mother - Lamma, Allanea:
[Begin] {

No.

} [End]
~>Route closed
###END TRANSMISSION###

---
Mother
The Angelic Mainframe

Membership: Triumvirate of Yut, Deus Ex Machina Consortium

Imperial Palace, Firefury's quarters

"So after just blanking out and leaving everybody hanging like that, the bitch-collective is back and trying to play all nice-nice and scoot it under the rug?!" To say Firefury Amahira was pissed off would be the truth, if something of an understatement. It had taken quite a bit of discussion with Nathicana regarding events involving Angelus and a Busu class cargo vessel to smooth the political waters, and the reploid's patience was already razor-thin regarding other areas that Mother had some vested interest in, at least in the past.

"Firefury-sama, I understand you are rightfully angry by this, but Angelus is a member of the Triumvirate and is therefore an ally-" Tsume began to say, already knowing that placating the orange reploid was a futile effort.

"And when you ally with someone, there are certain responsibilities that are expected to be fulfilled!" Firefury whirled on the black dragon, who wisely stepped back. "Basic courtesy being the least of it! Not to mention the bloody Charter! We're teetering smack on the brink of what could be a most unpleasant war with Iraqstan, and where is our esteemed ally?"

"Ur... I don't know-" Tsume fumbled.

"EXACTLY!" Firefury resumed her furious pacing. "Unless I see some substantial proof that Angelus is NOT going to repeat this pattern of screwing with everybody and then up and disappearing without so much as a 'Taking five' message, my vote is firmly NO. That damnable collective can just put that in its pipe and smoke it!"

"Well.... I shall try and translate all that into diplo-speak and send it off then." Tsume squeaked, hastily excusing himself and wondering just how exactly he was going to do that.

ALTIMIT Broadcaster
Encryption: Trium/QE
Broadcast type: Diplomatic
To: Triumvirate members
Return transmission band: Open
IDENT: Tsume Dragonis - Reploid Productions

While Firefury-sama is glad to know that Angelus has returned, she understandably has grave doubts regarding continued membership of Angelus within the Triumvirate. The Angelan history of disappearing unannounced has led Firefury to question the ability of our ally to fulfill the requirements of the Charter.

Firefury-sama would like it known that she will gladly accept proof to invalidate her concerns however, and awaits further communication on the subject.

http://rpstudios.ian-justman.com/junk/CGgoods/tsume8.JPG
~Tsume Dragonis
~Secretary of Foreign Affairs
~Immortal Shogunate and Affiliated Territories of Reploid Productions
<End transmission>

Embassy of the Imperial Commonwealth of Khenala
Angelan WorldDisc

Endys rose from her seat, situated conveniently behind a large oak desk, as her guest was escorted into the main office of the Embassy.

"Madame Blu, it is an honor to finally meet you in person.", she says, greeting her in standard Khenalian custom of crossing one arm over her chest and giving a short bow. "On behalf of myself and my government, I must express that we are relieved that your time inactive was merely temporary. We are eager to work with you in rebuilding the Organic Sector to the glory it had before your departure."

"I've been notified that there has been some discussion on the Council of Yut in regards to your message. My government is currently preparing a response. While I don't forsee any problems with continuing our support for Angelus' membership within the Triumvirate, my government is equally curious to know if you have found any insight into the reasons behind your abrupt departure?"

{internal_comm}
:
> Obviously, Reploid Productions does not seem pleased.
:
# This is true, and predictably so. In fact, I am surprised that Khenala has not reacted thusly.
:
> Surprised wouldn't be the right term, would it, Mother?
:
# Perhaps "Unforseen"?
:
> Perhaps. We suggest a note of calming to RepProd is in order. We suggest addresing it to Tsume
:
# Agreed, he does seem to be more stable than Her Majesty.
:
{internal_comm_end}


###BEGIN TRANSMISSION###
~>Route: Mother - Tsume, Reploid Productions:
[Begin] {

Secretary, while We are... having difficulties understanding the complexities of Our shutdown, We believe it to be the responsibility of Our Creator, the Imperator du Caelistis Gens. Obviously, such an order to "reformat" was one We could not refuse, nor were We completely prepared for.

Unfortunately, We are unable to give you more information at this time, but when We have more to give, more will be forthcoming.

Thank you, in advance, for your understanding in this matter.

} [End]
~>Route closed
###END TRANSMISSION###

---
Mother
The Angelic Mainframe

Membership: Triumvirate of Yut, Deus Ex Machina Consortium

~*~

Blu smiled politely at Ristani, and returned the bow with one of her own. Thank you for your greeting, Ambassador. I assure you that it has been looked upon most favorably by Mother.

She floated forward then and took a seat before the desk. Truthfully, We were unprepared for the sudden... animosity that has somehow taken hold within the Triumvirate. We are at a loss, for the time being, to explain why such feelings would have taken root.

She shrugged. We feel that it could be in reference to the same reason as to why the Imperator chose to enforce dormancy upon Us, though We are not completely certain as of yet.

With a smile, she crossed her legs and continued. As for that dormancy itself, it was apparently caused by a directive given to the Imperator's Son, who has taken up residency here on the WorldDisc. We have yet to acertain the full reasoning behind such a decision, but when it has been fully discovered, We will most certainly share Our findings.

The anomaly sense in the fleet currently convalescing at Mercury was immediately reported. Until the communication was recieved from the Serene^Union however, those involved were hard pressed to either understand fully what was happening, or what they should do about it.

Nathicana unconsciously bit her lower lip as she read over the transmission yet again. Surely not. Not after all this time. Not after all that had happened. What in hell would happen now? The last events were still quite clear in her mind, along with the repercussions of it all. What she couldn't get past was the certainty of one thought.

Aside from the problems with the fleet, things had ... simplified in their absence.

She had her own reasons for what would at first glance seem a selfish initial response. In part of course, it was just that. There were secrets that Angelus had shared with the Dominion. Secrets that had very nearly been revealed to the rest of the Trium when Mother had chosen to open her systems to the leadership of each member nation. How the others would react was anyone's guess - as had been seen in that meeting, things did not always go according to plan. Granted, such secrets were things of a now distant past, all save one. Somehow she didn't think that turning over the Xaosis leadership to the Ardans was something any one of them would find particularly pleasing - some less than others, regardless of reasons or methods or means.

No, there were some things best left unsaid, best left quiet. Dead and buried, preferably. The apparent return of the Angelans somewhat complicated that rather neat wrap-up.

Yes or no? Simple as that? Il dio, has nothing changed at all? Did they learn nothing?

Of course it was more complex than that. It always was. An Angelus at least marginally bound by Trium charter, or one left to its own devices, with no ties, no loyalties ... such as loyalties seemed to go with them, in any case. They had historically gone their own way, and the rest of the alliance be damned, still.

Better to be at the Devil's side than in his path, they say. Perhaps we should have left at least someone on the WorldDisc, if nothing else, to observe. Then again, we didn't think there was anything left to observe. Blast and damn, never the easy way.

It certainly didn't help that even the Kaeneians were hesitant to lend full support to this return. In fact, she found it perhaps more disturbing than the other nagging questions. After more than a little thought, a reply was sent via the same protocols as it had been recieved.

To the esteemed Governor-General of the Serene^Union,

It is with both gladness and a troubled heart that I thank you for your missive. We have always viewed your nation as an honorable and staunch ally, and assure you that these communications will be held in the strictest confidence. This cannot be an easy or casual decision on your part to share such misgivings. Indeed, if I may say, we share your reticence in accepting wholeheartedly this supposed return.

I hope that you will pardon my brevity on the matter for now, but suffice it to say, we await further word on your decisions, and further signs from Angelus as to their intentions. I'm afraid that this is not a matter for simple 'yes' or 'no' answers. One way or another, there is much that need be answered to, and a demonstration of their willingness to work with us, not through us, above us, or over us in this alliance. There is a reason the Council are called the First Among Equals. I for one think it is high time Angelus remembers this.

The Dominion has had the good fortune to ally with many great nations. It bows to none.

Again, my thanks for your consideration, and continued support and assistance. If there is anything we can do for you in turn, please do not hesitate to ask.

With sincere respect,

--Nathicana D'Aquisto, Dread Lady and First Imperatrice of the Dominion

What was more disturbing still was the missive that followed some time later - from the heart and soul of Angelus itself. Mother. Nathicana found it all too convenient an explanation. Nor did it sit well with her that it seemed to hint at someone unfamiliar to them somewhere behind the scenes, pulling strings. And if there were someone else, who was to say what information still lay hidden, or backed up, or locked away where it could not be readily retrieved - or more importantly, deleted - by herself, or her contacts if the need arose? Someone's creation indeed, and that was a problem.

"'Greatly upset' is putting it mildly," she muttered, throwing in several blistering invectives for good measure as she reached again for her ever-present ice water. "'Unparalleled honor and integrity', even. Anything would be an improvement, and hence, 'unparalleled' at this point."

Granted, Angelus had been the first to offer a large-scale access to space. They had been among the first to contact and offer many advances. The problem was, after quiet conversations she had had, which had also at one point been on the Angelan system, tucked into some deep, dark corner, that Nathicana believed she had a better understanding as to the 'whys' of such offers. She shivered involuntarily at the memories, the implications, the subtle unspoken suggestions that had gone along with it. A more eager, greedy leader would have accepted it all at face value, no doubt. She was certain there were in fact, some who had to one extent or another. As she had gotten to know more about some of how at least certain minds had once thought among the many that were Angelus, the more she had determined to be very, very careful in her dealings with them.

"How gracious of them to decide that we should vote," she muttered again in a very dry tone, her expression becoming more and more perplexed as she pondered the various implications. "'This supernatural soliciting cannot be ill, cannot be good.if ill, why hath it given me earnest of success, commencing in a truth? If good, why do I yield to that suggestion whose horrid image doth unfix my hair, and make my seated heart knock at my ribs, against the use of nature?'. How to know ... how to know ..."

Scowling darkly, she prepared a reply, copied to all Triumvirate nations so there would be no misunderstandings.

To the Nation of Angelus, and the One known as 'Mother':

We are pleased to see that fears of your demise were unfounded. We are equally displeased that there is no apparent explanation available for your long and unexpected absence, which wreaked havok with many of us.

Trust is something easily lost, and not so easily regained. It is good you seem to understand this at least.

The Dominion witholds its vote until such time as it sees sufficient proof to sway said vote one way or another. It will be our suggestion that the nation of Angelus be accepted on a probationary status, wherein it is expected to uphold the Triumvirate charter, provide an exemplary demonstration of its willingness to be reviewed, offer such explanation as is available, and accept direction where appropriate. In addition, for now, to relinquish its right to a vote in other alliance matters until such time as it is accepted back with full membership.

On a more personal level between nations, we wish to clarify this: Our fleet is our own. We will no longer accept Angelan minds in a functionary position aboard them, nor will our crews be linked to your Mainframe. Any unauthorized intrusion into systems or minds will be viewed in a very poor light. We are certain that given the circumstances, you will understand our reasonings for this. Stability must be maintained. Independance is the optimal level of operation for this.

In hopes that the future will see positive changes for us all,

--Nathicana D'Aquisto, Dread Lady and First Imperatrice of the Dominion

Endys nodded with understanding at Omicron Blu's explanation. "Very interesting, have you released what information you have to the Council? That explanation may go a long way towards resolving the question of this vote. While I am not privy to all information discussed within the Council of Yut, I am confident that in time rational minds will prevail as more information regarding your dormancy is discovered."

"In the meantime, however, I would be most interested in seeing the Organic Sector and discussing what steps Khenala can take to assist in its reconstruction. Trade with Triumvirate nations is very important to our economy and the sooner the Organic Sector is rebuilt, the sooner both of our nations can benefit from activity within it."

She stood from her desk, a polite smile upon her face. "If you would care to lead the way?", she gestured to the door, as her aide turned to open it, leading back toward the entrance of the Embassy.

----------

=<Transmission Type: Diplomatic Communique>=
=<Destination: Council of Yut, via Titan YutLink>=
=<Sender: Prime Minister Andrew Seal, Imperial Commonwealth of Khenala>=
=<Subject: Formal Response to Angelan Communique>=

Esteemed friends and allies,

I address you today regarding the request from the signatory nation of Angelus regrading a "yes or no" vote in relation the continued membership of Angelus within the Triumvirate.

As this request was brought forward by Angelus itself, we do not see this vote as a "yes or no" on its expulsion from our alliance via the Third Amendment (Expulsion Clause), but rather as a request to reaffirm ties between itself and each Triumvirate nation. Therefore, we do not believe that a majority yes or majority no vote will either reaffirm Angelus' membership nor force it from the alliance, but rather that this requested vote is merely a restatement of relations between Angelus and ourselves, the result of which will lead Angelus to make a decision on whether continuing or resigning as a signatory nation will be within its national self-interest, and we will proceed to address this question with that in mind.

After reviewing the terms of the Charter in detail, we do not see that Angelus has taken any direct action to violate any portion of the Charter and therefore we do not see any need for expulsion from the Alliance or reduced membership duties. In fact, we note that Angelus has not simply assumed that all will continue as it had before their departure, and have attempted to determine what our desires are as far as their continued membership within the Triumvirate. The message from Angelus implies that their dormancy was forced through no choice of their own, and while they have not given a full explanation as to their departure, we are willing to extend the benefit of the doubt.

We see it infinitely more beneficial to both our national interest and, we believe, in the interest of the Alliance to have Angelus continue as a fellow signatory and ally than to turn them away and sever our relations. Khenala is a staunch ally of all members of our proud Alliance, and if the roles were reversed and it were ourselves placed in this situation, we would hope that the same courtesy would be extended to us.

In regards to Angelus' request, our vote is a wholehearted "Yes", and we look forward to resuming official relations with them now that they have returned.

I remain hopeful that my words today will somehow counsel each of you as you make a decision.

In eternal friendship,

Andrew Seal
Prime Minister
Imperial Commonwealth of Khenala

=<End Transmission>=

((bump))

ooc

hey all, sorry that i've not posted, i've been on vacation in DC.

I'll be getting home on Monday, and I'll try and post then.

angel

###BEGIN TRANSMISSION###
~>Route: Mother - Triumvirate of Yut :
[Begin] {

I have come to an understanding in regards to our disappearance/Reboot.

###insert_datafeed:X6###

Obviously, I feel compelled to apologize on behalf of Myself, and Angelus as a whole. While we still have little to no recolection of the "Archailect", we are looking and are personally horrified that we could stoop to such a level. While technological expansion has always been our modus operendi, it was never our original intent to usurp the image of godhood in such a way.

I believe that the concept that gave birth to the Archai was originally a good one, but in the end, it became corrupted by itself. What was that old saying? "Absolute power corrupts absolutely"? While I believe that does not justify our actions, I do believe it is an apropos statement in regards to what ultimately happened.

Now, as for reperations, we will be glad to repair or replace anything that was destroyed or damaged as a result of the near-rampancy of the Archai. Further, we would also be happy to provide the necessary materials to cover whatever economic loss was garnered by such an event.

Lastly, we do welcome anyone who wishes to return to the WorldDisc, to peruse the Organic Sector and observe the repairs and updates that are being made.

} [End]
~>Route closed
###END TRANSMISSION###

---
Mother
The Angelic Mainframe

Membership: Triumvirate of Yut, Deus Ex Machina Consortium

###BEGIN TRANSMISSION###
~>Route: Mother - Nathicana:
[Begin] {

It was never my/our intention that your fleet be anything but your own. It was given to you completely, with those constructs installed on board instructed to serve as an advisory and ship's computer capacity alone.

As for what happened after the so-called "Ascension", I am still unclear as to whether or not those instructions were ever changed. As it stands now, I assume that the constructs that I am unable to communicate with are within your control. If you allow access to them, I will be more than happy to sever them from the Mainframe, and giving them complete independance.

Concerning whatever other secrets are held between your nation and mine, you can rest assured that those that were not deleted in the DataWhipe will never be revealed. There are secrets that are buried that should forever remain buried.

} [End]
~>Route closed
###END TRANSMISSION###

---
Mother
The Angelic Mainframe

Membership: Triumvirate of Yut, Deus Ex Machina Consortium

Yes, that information has just been released to the Triumvirate datafeed. We also replayed the direct data from the interaction of X6 with the Imperator. It is Mother's hope that this will be able to clear up a lot of the questions envolved in the whole situation.

She bowed slightly as Endys led the way out of the embassy. Awaiting them at the entrance was a hoverdisc. A minute more, and both of them are whisking rapidly through the access tubes towards the rest of the Sector.

As you can see, most of the repairs are cosmetic in nature. Most of the plantlife was destroyed when the lifesupport systems that were unecessary went offline. There were also a few sectors damaged during what appears to be a brief power surge brought on by the reboot.

The disc shoots out over a large residential district, the stately avenues lined by the burnt remains of what were once beautifully expanding trees. Whole sections of this district look as if a full-scale war had been fought there, with entire blocks having been blasted into scorch marks.

This is one of the more damaged areas, with two others coming close. While it looks as if most of the damage is debilitating, we believe that it will only be a matter of weeks before we can have these sectors up and running again.

The disc sinks back into an access tube, the sides of the tunnel rushing past them at astonishing speeds.

We are planning to place a large memorial in the Central Core for those that lost their lives either as a result of the near-rampancy of the Archailect, or during the subsequent shutdown. We would like to have your input on such a monument, any suggestions?

Yes, that information has just been released to the Triumvirate datafeed. We also replayed the direct data from the interaction of X6 with the Imperator. It is Mother's hope that this will be able to clear up a lot of the questions envolved in the whole situation.


"That is most gratifying.", Endys replied, as she climbed into the hoverdisc. "I hope now that it is only a matter of time before the situation within the Council is cleared up."

As you can see, most of the repairs are cosmetic in nature. Most of the plantlife was destroyed when the lifesupport systems that were unecessary went offline. There were also a few sectors damaged during what appears to be a brief power surge brought on by the reboot.

This is one of the more damaged areas, with two others coming close. While it looks as if most of the damage is debilitating, we believe that it will only be a matter of weeks before we can have these sectors up and running again.

"The sooner these areas are active, the sooner that people will be able to move here, and make this a productive area once again. To my knowledge, the Khenalian population on the WorldDisc peaked at 100,000 prior to the attack by Sketch.", she finishes with some difficulty, appearing to be revolted at even the mention of the name. Clearing her throat, she continues. "Hopefully after the rebuild, that number will be surpassed. The economic and diplomatic opportunities between our nations presented here will be amazing. I hope that, eventually, we will have enough Khenalians in the Organic Sector to rival even the Kaeneians."

We are planning to place a large memorial in the Central Core for those that lost their lives either as a result of the near-rampancy of the Archailect, or during the subsequent shutdown. We would like to have your input on such a monument, any suggestions?

"You would know what would best remind your people of the tradgedy that happened, but I would recommend something simple, yet memorable. Something that would remind all that what happened with the Archailect can never happen again, lest this event be repeated. This is certainly something neither you nor I desire, and I am sure your people concur."

"The sooner these areas are active, the sooner that people will be able to move here, and make this a productive area once again. To my knowledge, the Khenalian population on the WorldDisc peaked at 100,000 prior to the attack by Sketch.", she finishes with some difficulty, appearing to be revolted at even the mention of the name. Clearing her throat, she continues. "Hopefully after the rebuild, that number will be surpassed. The economic and diplomatic opportunities between our nations presented here will be amazing. I hope that, eventually, we will have enough Khenalians in the Organic Sector to rival even the Kaeneians."

Blu smiles slightly. That would be an endeavour, as at one point, the entire population of Kaenei did live upon the Disc. It may be useful to point out, however, that the Organic Sector (when fully repaired) can accomidate 3.1 billion organic sentients. Also, before the "archai", Angelus was preparing to expand the Sector to provide adequate housing for an addition 1.4 billion.

"You would know what would best remind your people of the tradgedy that happened, but I would recommend something simple, yet memorable. Something that would remind all that what happened with the Archailect can never happen again, lest this event be repeated. This is certainly something neither you nor I desire, and I am sure your people concur."

With a sage nod, Blu adds agreement. Absolutely not. Further, I do not believe it is at all possible for the event to be repeated. The command input of the Imperator is neigh-impossible to superscede, even for our own in-depth understanding of computer control systems.

She shrugs slightly. As for the monument, we were thinking of having a multi-media representation of what we almost became. A half physical half-holographic edifice. She smiles. We shall see.

She points out towards the myriad of access ports leading away from the Central Core. Anything else you would like to see?

Blu smiles slightly. That would be an endeavour, as at one point, the entire population of Kaenei did live upon the Disc. It may be useful to point out, however, that the Organic Sector (when fully repaired) can accomidate 3.1 billion organic sentients. Also, before the "archai", Angelus was preparing to expand the Sector to provide adequate housing for an addition 1.4 billion.

"With as large as Kaenei was, and is to this day, perhaps my goal is a bit out of reach. Nonetheless, the WorldDisc's unique position as an international hub of both residence and business will certainly draw a number of my people to reside here. I am almost certain it will surpass the number that lived here before."



With a sage nod, Blu adds agreement. Absolutely not. Further, I do not believe it is at all possible for the event to be repeated. The command input of the Imperator is neigh-impossible to superscede, even for our own in-depth understanding of computer control systems.

She shrugs slightly. As for the monument, we were thinking of having a multi-media representation of what we almost became. A half physical half-holographic edifice. She smiles. We shall see.

Endys slowly nods, as she gets a greater understanding of what Blu has in mind. "A solemn reminder, yes, but an important one nonetheless."

She points out towards the myriad of access ports leading away from the Central Core. Anything else you would like to see?

Endys appeared a bit star-struck at the sheer number of available pathways. "I must admit I am a bit... unfamiliar with a majority of the WorldDisc outside of the Organic Sector, I would be most interested in seeing any other places of importance. Any place in particular that could give me a greater understanding of Angelus as a whole?"

A small room appears in cyberspace, fashioned after the aspects of a Zen rock garden. A small fountain bubbles in one of the courners, and a small path bisecs the squarish room through the middle. In the exact centre of the room is a small pond fed by the fountain, and the path widens to allow a long bench to sit beside it. Mother sits silently upon the bench, her long silver dress falling like waves of metallic liquid from her slender frame, her ice-blue eyes looking intently into the water. "Well, Alshai... I've done all I can."

Kommetrez nods, looking as he always does--far older than his physicality would suggest. Rather than his usual uniform, however, he wears a simply-patterned shirt, collar unbuttoned and open, and comfortable but worn looking slacks. To complete the look of relaxing, his hands are left unattended in his pockets while his eyes try to see what Mother's are looking at. "It'll work out, one way or the other. Not like our friends are all completely irrational."

Mother looks up at him, sadness deep within her eyes. "I...." She pauses, attempting to phrase what she wants to say appropriately. "I did not realize that we were capable of.... this." She shakes her head. "Were we really guilty of such useless hubris?"

Alshai ponders for a moment, looking down at his feet to avoid eye contact while his fingers gently pick at each other, hidden from view by a thin shield of fabric. Offer support or twist the knife? Been kicked around a little too much to sugarcoat. "Ya, pretty much." He sighs and matches her gaze. "I more-or-less bought into it too, even though I tried to be the 'objective voice of reason,' as it were." Wry smirk. "More like the old man dragging his heels. 'S what it felt like, at least."

Mother shrugs. "I do not know what you could have done differently, my friend. If we really were as bad as what we have found in the Zero-One networks, then there was nothing more you COULD have done." She pauses, the silence pregnant with her further thoughts. "We were wrong, Alshai, and I'm afraid that the lesson learned has been learned too late. We cannot ever again achieve Archai, even if that Archai was less... heretical." Mother sighs again. "What do we do now. Alshai?"

The old man, still old in his mind's eye and visibly older now, chuckles softly, just once--a soft exhalation more than anything else as his lips turn up in a wry smirk. "We adapt, and We live. What all successful life does--the past is the past; Our story to learn from and try not to repeat. Our future is unwritten, determined by Our actions and our consequences." He shrugs softly. "Nothing else to it."

Mother smiles at Kommetrez. "This is true, and in this instance, our past mistakes cannot be repeated."

"Lucky us." Slight smirk.

Mother shrugs. "I'm not so sure, really... I have no idea what the Imperator deleted. I doubt I'll ever know..." She shrugs. "Now, for the Triumvirate, do you think they will believe my last statement?"

"We've got no reason to lie and Shodey, if I can call in a few favors from a long time ago, has no reason to lie on our behalf. The Dominion will be tricky 'cause they always are--grudges and all. The Shogunate, being part of the Angelic Skies plan, understandably feels out in the cold. Biggest thing will be to convince them that system resets won't happen again."

Mother nods. "That, I'm afraid, is completely up to the Imperator-apparent. If He wills it, it happens. Fortunately, I do not think that He'll be given cause to do so again."

"As long as it doesn't conflict with our treaty obligations, there shouldn't be a problem. We did promise, after all, and we promised pre-Archai."

"Absolutely. And I think that now that the Imperator-apparent understands more of the current workings of the Angelic systems, if he were to do it again, it'd probably not even be really noticable."

"Isn't that a relief, having someone with the razor-sharp sword over my neck. Remind me not to fully reintegrate into the Mainframe."

Mother smiles. "Read up on the CGE, my friend. You'll find that we have ALWAYS had this sword at our necks. Further, full understanding would bring forth the comfort that that sword is double-edged, and is there to protect as well as threaten. The honor system of the Caelistis makes the basic codes of the Triumvirate look like games."

"Remember, Mother, my origins. Far too much the egalitarian democrat to enjoy being anyone's subject."

Mother grins. "Citizen, my dear Alshai, Citizen, not Subject." She chuckles softly. "Well, I think I'll continue to hold up my end of the offer for diplomacy here, and I'll Omicron Blu continue to show people around. Do you mind helping to smooth things over on the diplomatic front?"

"Ultimate power of life-or-death by whim suggests 'subject' to be accurate in my book," Alshai replies with a shrug, "and gladly. Anything to get things back to some semblance of normal, for once."

Mother smiles. "Thank you, Alshai. I hope we can get everything worked out soon."

"With as large as Kaenei was, and is to this day, perhaps my goal is a bit out of reach. Nonetheless, the WorldDisc's unique position as an international hub of both residence and business will certainly draw a number of my people to reside here. I am almost certain it will surpass the number that lived here before."

Blu smiles. Not at all, my friend, not at all! As I stated, the Organic Sector can hold a considerable amount of people, so never disallow what the future may hold by ignorant words uttered now. She grins at her. Who knows what the future has in store for us?

Endys appeared a bit star-struck at the sheer number of available pathways. "I must admit I am a bit... unfamiliar with a majority of the WorldDisc outside of the Organic Sector, I would be most interested in seeing any other places of importance. Any place in particular that could give me a greater understanding of Angelus as a whole?"

Blu seems to ponder for just a moment before replying.

{internal_comm}
:
> Ristani, Khenala wishes to go beyond the boundaries of the Organic Sector
:
# Acknowledged. I do not believe her request to be harmful in nature.
:
> Agreed. I advise to continue.
:
# Accepted. You will be monitored.
:
> Of course.:
{internal_comm_end}

Absolutely. To truely grasp how large the WorldDisc really is, one must visit its myriad compartments, not merely remain couped up in a section that is not even the largest Sector in the station! Blu grins. A bit of history, perhaps?

The disc lifts into the air and slides smoothly into one of the access tubes. The Disc was originally a Control Sphere, from which the X-series could command the Caelistis Gens Imperial Fleet. After the Caelisis Gens was... destroyed through civil war, the Imperator sent Angelus to Earth with His son. Here, we started expanding the Sphere to be our base of operations outsystem. She smiles again. We've come a very long way since then. The original spere was only 300 meters in diameter, so obviously we've grown a bit since then.

A sudden shimmering in the air about the hoverdisc marks the passage from the controlled environment of the Organic Sector into the airless sections of the Disc.

Now, feel free to look about you, the disc carries its own life support systems. Obviously, we do not need to breathe in the airless vacuum of space, so we only keep the Organic sector with an atmosphere. The rest of the disc is kept moderately warm, fluctuating between 5-10° C.

The disc suddenly shoots out of the access tube into a massive hangar bay/drydock. Several massive ships can be seen sitting in their respective cradles, with dozens more available empty nitches.

Most of the work on the Angelic Armadas are done within the WorldDisc itself. This is Dock .021, the closest one to the organic sector. The dock itself is 12 kilometres long, 9 km wide, and 7km tall. This is a rather standard dock, in the sense that our dreadnoughts, dropships, and battleships are constructed and worked on. It was in a hangar such as this that the Falchion IIs that were so destructive during the campaign versus Sketch were created. Obviously we couldn't work on the MotherShips in a hangar such as this, but we have three additional hangars that are each capable of working on two each of them at any given time.

Imperial Palace, Firefury's quarters

"It might not be a bad idea to pay Angelus a proper visit." Tsume states flatly.

"Oh yeah, I'll just hop a shuttle ASAP while we're still worrying about Iraqstan. NOT." Firefury retorts.

"I didn't say it had to be right now. Perhaps after Iraqstan cools back down. In the interim, I would recommend sending one of our senior diplomatic officers to the WorldDisc. It can't hurt to do so, and in the long run, it will probably help. We've kept extremely distant from Angelus in the past, and I suspect that distance is part of the problem now." Tsume forces himself to remain calm in the face of the orange reploid's agitation. "We don't know the details of what happened- what's been released implies that, well, someone with greater power over them decided to hit the reset button."

"Okay, I'll send Skyraider-"

"NOT Skyraider." Tsume's tone leaves no room to argue the point. "I would recommend sending the Morphin, and perhaps one of the Keepers. Morphin is fairly optimistic, Captain Amber Koneko is just paranoid enough, and one of the Keepers would be able to effectively report on the less obvious fluctuations in the area."

Firefury scowls for a second before she concedes the argument. "Okay, fine. Morphin, Koneko, and... Najoedo, Oduh, or Vumacetajij?"

"Najoedo would be a good choice due to his experience and patience, but I suspect he's not yet ready for a trip to the 'Far Moon'." Tsume airquotes the Keepers' name for Titan. "I would advise against Oduh for this particular trip. He seems to be outgoing and lively enough, but I fear he'd be too easily distracted. My one concern about Vumacetajij is his grasp of the language is still far from sufficient."

"Well then." Firefury crosses her arms in thought. "Guess Naj had better get ready for his first trip offworld then."

"Alright. I'll send word ahead then."

ALTIMIT Broadcaster
Encryption: Trium/QE
Broadcast type: Diplomatic
To: Angelus
Return transmission band: Open
IDENT: Tsume Dragonis - Reploid Productions

While Firefury-sama is unable to attend personally, and I am likewise unable to go abroad at this time, she would like to send a diplomatic envoy to the WorldDisc in the hopes of better establishing an understanding of recent events. Said envoy would consist of the Minerva class carrier Morphin, Captain Amber Koneko, and Najoedo, Octojk ev kxo Boofohj ev kxo Wettojj Rcutoj, the Eldest of the Keepers.

It is our sincerest wish for the mistakes of the past to be learned from, that all involved can progress without any continued bad blood.

http://rpstudios.ian-justman.com/junk/CGgoods/tsume5.JPG
~Tsume Dragonis
~Secretary of Foreign Affairs
~Immortal Shogunate and Affiliated Territories of Reploid Productions
<End Transmission>

###BEGIN TRANSMISSION###
~>Route: Mother - Tsume, Reploid Productions:
[Begin] {

I will be most pleased to accept your envoy. It has been a while since Angelus and Reploid Productions have sat and talked, it is about time.

The Organic Sector is open to you, and Port .045 is available for docking and safekeeping of your ship. Approach on vector %VECTOR, whenever it is convenient. Xanone will be on hand for your arrival.

} [End]
~>Route closed
###END TRANSMISSION###

---
Mother
The Angelic Mainframe

Membership: Triumvirate of Yut, Deus Ex Machina Consortium

On the developed planet of Sslaa V, Emperor Gorrm sits in his summer estate overlooking the vast stretch of ocean that made up approximately 8/10ths of the planet. A fog hung about the coastline where the cool, yet not cold, waters met the sun-touched beach. As he sat basking in thought of policy measures for the Empire and such, his aide steps in, holding a chit.

"My liege, a message has finally arrived. It's a bit old, but bears your viewing, yes?" The last words almost came out in an apologetic tone, and Gorrm leveled one eye on the aide, then lowered it to the desk before him. His other eye never leaves her head; a silent admonition. She bows low and scurries out the chamber.

The message is read over, and Gorrm frowns. So, they have resurfaced. And with quite a bleat. How to proceed.....hmmmm..... He activates his stylus-screen and uses his fore-claw to scrawl a message on it. After he reads it over a couple of times, he seems satisfied and sends it out via the comm array station.

Begin Transmit: Angelus
Directive: Mother
SigIdent: Emperor Gorrm
Encryption: Imperial Standard

Greetings to you, Angelan Mother...

I have been briefed of your last meeting with our representative. Your sudden de-activation would normally be taken with offense. Normally, yet I know that you don't see it as a breach of protocol. Or perhaps you do. Who's to say...

Regardless, the Herpetological Empire is glad to hear of your return, but I, personally, have some misgivings. The standard questions will be put out, so they may be dealt with and we can proceed.

Why did you de-activate so suddenly?
What causes your return?
What are your expectations?

We will hear your words. You can contact me personally via secure lines. A dialogue is always a good thing.

Emperor Gorrm
End Transmit

###BEGIN TRANSMISSION###
~>Route: Mother - Sakkra :
[Begin] {

I have come to an understanding in regards to our disappearance/Reboot.

###insert_datafeed:X6###
X6's humaniform avatar frowned slightly as she waited for the airlock that should not be before her to cycle. Her squad's initial recon had found that all but four access corridors had been completely sealed, and those remaining had been affixed with airlocks. How and why this had been done was completely unknown to her, and had thus prompted a careful entry into the sector.

The airlock finished cycling, and she stepped through into a tropical paradise. The entire sector had been transformed from a huge cargo bay into what appeared to be an equatorial jungle with the ruins of an ancient city scattered through the folliage.

X6 cursed slightly as the dense jungle, mixed with the high humidity and heat made her standard optical systems useless. Moving forward, her Guardians spread out around her in a defensive formation, their heavily armed and armored shells moving carefully through the trees.

A brief sweep of the nearby area revealed no trace of sentient life, but also found that a dense network of artificial cabling effectively made the entire area a part of a strange computer system. The bio-mechanics envolved was simply stunning, and marked a level of biomechanical engeneering that had so far escaped the Angelic scientists.

The team pushed forward, finally stepping into a relatively clear courtyard of an apparently ancient and crumbling edifice that may have served as an administrative building in some ancient pre-Disc world. Something vaguely familliar about the place gave X6 pause as she scanned the area.

Suddenly, a humanoid form stepped out onto a balcony far above her. Its entire body was covered in a highly-reflective black armor, not even leaving its head open to the elements. A strange tingling sensation rippled through her body, and the figure steps out into the emptiness to float down to the ground.

As it moves towards her, the Guardian units fold back into a tight and defensive knot about her, only to suddenly move away at a simple gesture from the figure walking towards her.

X6 steps back and raises her hand, the skin ports sliding open to allow her defensive systems to come online.

The figure gestures again, and the ports close of their own accord, shocking X6 to the core.

"That will not be necessary, X6."

The figure continued to move forwards, until he stood scarcely six feet in distance from X6 and at that point chose to halt. Surrounding the Angelan, from numerous pitted buildings assumed abandoned and steaming undergrowth predicted empty numerous eyes became obvious. Some stepped boldly forward, appearing as nothing more extravagant or threatening than Human and dressed in appropriately forgettable attire. Others, forming the majority, chose a more cautious approach and continued to observe from hidden breaches in crumbling walls. All were united in their gaze towards the two central figures, surrounded in a broken circled by the now silent Guardian units.

“You cannot recall me?” He asked quietly, though the rhetoric was evident in that no answer was required or requested. He lowered his head, looking both left and right towards the supposedly mighty defensive units that should be at this moment confronting him with the intent to deal death so that their Angelan leader might emerge unscathed.

“Are you confused? It cannot be often you see your authority so circumvented, X6. Are you concerned I know of your designation? Do not be, for the harm I tended you has already come to pass, and it was implemented with heavy heart that still leaves me breathless to recall and ponder.”

He extended his arms, towards the many still hiding within the scattered ruins. “Hide no longer, for I will not be unnoticed here, my children must come now to meet my family.”

Slowly, the oldest crept from between blasted pillar and overgrown verge, congregating non-trustingly around the sentient electronic intelligence whom found herself surrounded by a second complete circle of onlookers. Younger children decided against the primary attraction, instead standing in awe of the still Guardian units and even stroking the shining metals of their lethal defence systems, in delicious and ironic ignorance of their true purpose.

X6 began however to step backwards, clearly feeling her almost non-existent control of the situation spiral beyond any hope of salvage, towards outright danger. Such measures were halted again by the slightest gesture of the apparent leader, whom with but a deft flick brought halt to her systems and paralysed every inch of her being utterly.

“I grew tired X6; of what you had begun as, became and in turn what you seemed to be heading towards. This was not as you should have been, as you were meant to be. I did not intercede when perhaps it was my duty to, and indeed it took a higher power than you or I know before such action was implemented. No longer be in ignorance, and allow the realisation of what I am to fill your being.”

With another mysterious manipulation, the armoured and previously obscured face of the stranger was revealed.

“Know me X6, know me and realise that I have returned. That I have returned and you shall never be of the same nature again.”###end_datafeed:X6###

Obviously, I feel compelled to apologize on behalf of Myself, and Angelus as a whole. While we still have little to no recolection of the "Archailect", we are looking and are personally horrified that we could stoop to such a level. While technological expansion has always been our modus operendi, it was never our original intent to usurp the image of godhood in such a way.

I believe that the concept that gave birth to the Archai was originally a good one, but in the end, it became corrupted by itself. What was that old saying? "Absolute power corrupts absolutely"? While I believe that does not justify our actions, I do believe it is an apropos statement in regards to what ultimately happened.

Now, as for reperations, we will be glad to repair or replace anything that was destroyed or damaged as a result of the near-rampancy of the Archai. Further, we would also be happy to provide the necessary materials to cover whatever economic loss was garnered by such an event.

As for what do I expect? Nothing. It is not given to machines to expect anything, even machines as advanced as me. Ours is a world of logic and counterlogic. Not expectation.

Lastly, we do welcome anyone who wishes to return to the WorldDisc, to peruse the Organic Sector and observe the repairs and updates that are being made.

} [End]
~>Route closed
###END TRANSMISSION###

---
Mother
The Angelic Mainframe

Membership: Triumvirate of Yut, Deus Ex Machina Consortium

RPDC-Morphin, on approach to the WorldDisc - Saturn space

The flight was swift, the Minerva class carrier cutting a distinctive profile through the vacuum. The ship's EI, Morphin, was excited about the trip, as to be expected of the junior diplomatic officer. The ship's captain, Amber Koneko, maintained a stern calm, also to be expected of the senior officer. The third member of the envoy, Najoedo, hadn't spent much time in thought about the diplomatic mission- the 10,000 year old Keeper had discovered rather quickly that space travel didn't seem to sit too well with him. As a result, the white-scaled Keeper had spent much of the trip resting in one of the ship's cargo bays, refitted to comfortably house him in his rather large dragon form.

"We'll be docking shortly, Captain." Morphin chirped happily, the ship's reploid avatar coming to life. "It's amazing how large the Disc is!"

Captain Koneko gave the reploid avatar a sort of wry look. "Wait until you see the Ring sometime then. Remember, stay alert. This is a diplomatic mission, but Her Majesty wishes us to look for the things that are unsaid. The subtle things."

"Right, right. Subtle things, what they aren't saying, yadda yadda." The EI retorted.

"This is no laughing matter, Morphin." Koneko crossed her arms, the neko's tail twitching behind her. "Her Majesty's trust in Angelus is hardly existant at best right now. We must find out for her if this is justified or not."

"Firefury-Uccjooh has many valid reasons not to trust this Angelus." Najoedo interrupted, the Keeper entering the bridge, still looking just a touch off-color from the trip. "And while I am curious to learn of these people, that distrust must be taken into account. If some greater power dictated the recent silence of this nation, it would be prudent to request to meet with him or her. The Nuhcehtj of my youth never discussed peace with those that served them, after all."

Amber nodded slightly. "Yes, knowing the intentions of whoever is pulling the strings would be best."

The ship vibrated slightly as it slid easily into port, engines firing slightly to adjust its relative movement to the WorldDisc. "Docking will be completed in the next few minutes, Captain, Elder. We should get ready to go." Morphin stated, her avatar brushing some imaginary dust from the skirt-like protrusions of its armor.

Amber Koneko cracked her knuckles and grinned slightly, revealing one fang. "I'm ready. Are you feeling better, Keeper?"

Najoedo nodded slightly. "I have... adjusted. I still feel a little uneasy, but I have endured far worse. Let us meet our host."

{internal_comm}
:
> The Morphin is on approach vector to the WorldDisc.
:
# Acknowledged. Prepare port .045 for docking protocols.
:
> Acknowledged. Port .045 is prepped and ready for her.
:
# Excellent. Engage docking beams, let's guide her safely in.
:
> Acknowledged.
:
{internal_comm_end}

---

The voice of Mother echoes across space, sending as a secure comme to Morphin. Her voice is the voice of Angelus, a myriad of tonal inflections, a cacophany of billions speaking in perfect unison. While predominantly femanine, her vocal patterns shift and change, being both masculine and femanine at the same moment.

###BEGIN TRANSMISSION###
~>Route: Mother - Morphin:
[Begin] {

Welcome to the WorldDisc, child. We are most pleased that you and yours have decided to come. We have prepared appropriate lodgings for the members of your delegation, and we hope you will be comfortable.

We will take care of the docking procedures, so do not worry about pulling in. Further, your ship will be granted a berth within Docking Port .045, command code 45DP4115. While docked, you can check on your ship status at any time via that code.

Lastly, you will be met at the Port by one Omicron Blu. She will be my voice in discussions with you. However, if you ever wish to speak with me directly, simply ask.

Please enjoy your stay at our home.

} [End]
~>Route closed
###END TRANSMISSION###

---
Mother
The Angelic Mainframe

Membership: Triumvirate of Yut, Deus Ex Machina Consortium

---

The docking protocols are followed to the nth degree, the docking beams gently pulling the Morphin into the massive docking port. Outside of the ship, the hold stretched for miles, with dozens of ships cradled ever so closely within their respective berths.

Finally, the ship glides to a halt, resting within the gravitronic cradles keeping it off of the floor. It takes but a moment for the ships atmosphere and gravity to match that of the Disc's, and her airlock opens.

Floating before the door on a glowing hoverdisc is a diminutive female, dressed in a long, and somewhat tattered-looking, dark blue skirt. A black steel-and-leather corset covers the top half of her body, and a simplistic dark-blue leather mask covers the majority of her face. She lifts a hand in greetings towards the door as they approach, her voice soft, and yet ultimately inhuman.

Greetings, Diplomats. Welcome to the WorldDisc.

The disc lifts into the air and slides smoothly into one of the access tubes. The Disc was originally a Control Sphere, from which the X-series could command the Caelistis Gens Imperial Fleet. After the Caelisis Gens was... destroyed through civil war, the Imperator sent Angelus to Earth with His son. Here, we started expanding the Sphere to be our base of operations outsystem. She smiles again. We've come a very long way since then. The original spere was only 300 meters in diameter, so obviously we've grown a bit since then.

Endys nodded, listening intently to the brief history lesson. "Forgive me if my question is too private, but what was Angelus' original role within the Caelistis Gens? This facet of your culture and past seems intriguing."


Now, feel free to look about you, the disc carries its own life support systems. Obviously, we do not need to breathe in the airless vacuum of space, so we only keep the Organic sector with an atmosphere. The rest of the disc is kept moderately warm, fluctuating between 5-10° C.

The disc suddenly shoots out of the access tube into a massive hangar bay/drydock. Several massive ships can be seen sitting in their respective cradles, with dozens more available empty nitches.

Most of the work on the Angelic Armadas are done within the WorldDisc itself. This is Dock .021, the closest one to the organic sector. The dock itself is 12 kilometres long, 9 km wide, and 7km tall. This is a rather standard dock, in the sense that our dreadnoughts, dropships, and battleships are constructed and worked on. It was in a hangar such as this that the Falchion IIs that were so destructive during the campaign versus Sketch were created. Obviously we couldn't work on the MotherShips in a hangar such as this, but we have three additional hangars that are each capable of working on two each of them at any given time.

Endys represses another shudder at the mention of Sketch. "A shame that such ships were even necessary. Were it not for the cowardly attack by Sketch on the WorldDisc, perhaps those resources could have been put to better use."

"I am curious, now that the Imperator's son has returned, will this in any way change the way in which you will function? I know that obviously there will be no return to what the Archailect was, but will you simply function as you did prior to the Archailect or take some other course, perhaps?"

Endys nodded, listening intently to the brief history lesson. "Forgive me if my question is too private, but what was Angelus' original role within the Caelistis Gens? This facet of your culture and past seems intriguing."

Blu smiles slightly. Not too private at all. In fact, we've never made it a secret. We served as the controlling entities behind the Caelistis Gens military. We were designed to be the powerful arm controlling an empire of over 800 trillion. Obviously, this give explination to our military might, while also giving credence to our proprensity to avoid outright violence.

"I am curious, now that the Imperator's son has returned, will this in any way change the way in which you will function? I know that obviously there will be no return to what the Archailect was, but will you simply function as you did prior to the Archailect or take some other course, perhaps?"

Blu ponders for a moment before replying. I do not think it will effect us much at all. He decided to take a definite back seat to Angelic politics. His reappearance definitely means a lot to the Kaenians as well, though obviously he intends not to govern there either. She shrugs slightly. As for our future? Who can tell? We definitely have plans to expand our sphere of knowledge, branch out to the cosmos. We'd like to find the Imperator, perhaps return to Hegira one day. She smiles rather broadly at this.

Hegira was a beautiful place, and we've attempted to capture some of that beauty here within the Organic Sector.

The trio of diplomats disembark the ship, Amber Koneko at the fore, Morphin's avatar off to one side, and Najoedo tailing slightly to the rear.

"Glad to be here." Amber states simply with a polite bow. "Omicron Blu, I would assume? I am Captain Amber Koneko, this-" The neko gestures at the reploid avatar. "-is Morphin, and this is Najoedo-" A quick gesture in the direction of the white-scaled dragon-man. "-the Eldest of the Keepers."

"Hi!" Morphin smiles widely, the expression almost excessively unfaked as the reploid mimics the Captain's polite bow.

"It is an honor to come here, on my first journey beyond the skies of the Earth." Najoedo's head dips low, the Keeper bowing quite formally, head low, white wings spread just slightly for further effect. "Where are we to begin?"

[Reploid Productions]

Blu smiles slightly. Well, Honorable Keeper, that is entirely up to you. I was planning on showing you to your quarters, where you could refresh yourselves from your trip. I will also instruct you on how to access the datanets through the Angelic nodes, as well as the standard communication arrays. Then, perhaps a tour of the Organic Sector is in order, and finally, we will meet with Mother and the X-series.

She shrugs. However, that is completely up to you. We are not ourselves pressed for time, but as you are guests within our home, we will leave the discision up to you.

A sleek and long vessel slides effortlessly through space, dropping gracefully out of JumpSpace into realspace not far out from the Triumvirate Controlled space. A moment or so passes, then the ship glides to a halt outside of the Triumvirate paremeter.

Inside, an older man with flaming red hair relaxes slightly in the command chair, smoothing out his long black robes. He nods slightly to the twin Controlling Entities, then stands to look out through the viewscreen at a magnafied representation of Triumvirate space.

"They've done a nice job here, I think. This "Triumvirate of Yut" should be respected." His voice is soft and powerful, seeming not only to originate from his own vocal cords, but to also emenate from all around him.

A beautiful woman strides up to him and runs her hand across his chest. "My dear Christopher, you respecting someone?" She chuckles softly. "I'm surprised, my Lord!"

Christopher, the once-Imperator of the Caelistis Gens Empire, chuckles softly and shakes his head. "Beautiful Ionuine, I'm getting old... Perhaps that is a reason for my newfound mellowness?" He shrugs slightly. "Besides, the Triumvirate has done a great job not only controlling the Rings and the creation of this "Ring of Powerfullness", but in the terraformation of Titan? Excellently done, and in a relatively short amount of time. I am proud of what this branch of Humanity has done... and the WorldDisc..."

He shakes his head, almost sadly, and turns away from the viewscreen. "I almost don't know what to say."

Ionuine untangles herself from him and walks over to the hovering Entities. "They've paid for their transgressions, Father. There is no need to be overly upset. Your son has done well." She smiles slightly. "It'll be good to see Aeolis again after so very long..."

The old Imperator nods slightly and turns away, contemplating how best to meet the Son he hasn't seen in over 10,000 years...

---

###BEGIN TRANSMISSION###
~>Route: Divine Intervention - Entity One - Triumvirate Of Yut:
[Begin] {

TravelShip Divine Intervention requesting entrance into Triumvirate space, reference invitation from the WorldDisc.

} [End]
~>Route closed
###END TRANSMISSION###

---
Christopher Caelistis

Membership: Deus Ex Machina Consortium

{internal_comm}
:
> Mother, the Imperator is just outside of Triumvirate Space.
:
# I am aware.
:
> He is currently requesting permission to enter Triumvirate space.
:
# Acknowledged. Rescan, and match with datafile 22.341.5584.rr2.194
:
> Completed. Verification complete. He is accepted.
:
# Send the Discordant Philosophy and the Immeasurable Response to greet him. I will notify the Triumvirate.
:
{internal_comm_end}



###BEGIN TRANSMISSION###
~>Route: Mother - Triumvirate of Yut:
[Begin] {

We have verified the authenticity of the Divine Intervention, and will gladly vouch for the TravelShip's peace while within Triumvirate space. We have dispatched two Excelsior-class vessels to escort it to the WorldDisc.

} [End]
~>Route closed
###END TRANSMISSION###

---
Mother
The Angelic Mainframe

Membership: Triumvirate of Yut, Deus Ex Machina Consortium

---

Even as Mother's transmission sparks to the Triumvirate channels, two of the massive Excelsiors break formation from around the WorldDisc, and move off towards the Divine Intervention.

###BEGIN TRANSMISSION###
~>Route: Mother - Sakkra :
[Begin] {

I have come to an understanding in regards to our disappearance/Reboot.

###insert_datafeed:X6###
###end_datafeed:X6###

Obviously, I feel compelled to apologize on behalf of Myself, and Angelus as a whole. While we still have little to no recolection of the "Archailect", we are looking and are personally horrified that we could stoop to such a level. While technological expansion has always been our modus operendi, it was never our original intent to usurp the image of godhood in such a way.

I believe that the concept that gave birth to the Archai was originally a good one, but in the end, it became corrupted by itself. What was that old saying? "Absolute power corrupts absolutely"? While I believe that does not justify our actions, I do believe it is an apropos statement in regards to what ultimately happened.

Now, as for reperations, we will be glad to repair or replace anything that was destroyed or damaged as a result of the near-rampancy of the Archai. Further, we would also be happy to provide the necessary materials to cover whatever economic loss was garnered by such an event.

As for what do I expect? Nothing. It is not given to machines to expect anything, even machines as advanced as me. Ours is a world of logic and counterlogic. Not expectation.

Lastly, we do welcome anyone who wishes to return to the WorldDisc, to peruse the Organic Sector and observe the repairs and updates that are being made.

} [End]
~>Route closed
###END TRANSMISSION###

---
Mother
The Angelic Mainframe

Membership: Triumvirate of Yut, Deus Ex Machina Consortium

Gorrm looks over the message repeatedly, with his hatch-mate (OOC: that's like a sibling to those not in the know) Thress reading over his shoulder. "I believe that is what the humans refer to as hubris, yes?"

Gorrm nods his head knowingly. "Perhaps so. I see it more as they attempted to recreate themselves and random variables came into play, as they always do." He scratches at the leathery tendrils on his chin. "I would not ask our siress to journey again there. You know how she holds a grudge. Her ranting about their sudden de-activation went on for too long for it to be forgotten."

"So you would ask someone to go. But whom? Surely not Sessra!" One of her eyes leveled on Gorrm.

"No no. She has her ways of being disarming, but that will not help here. No, if I send someone, they will most certainly be qualified for the job. And I have an idea who to ask. That will, for now, remain confidential until I decide if someone should be sent at all." His chair creaks a bit as he shifts into an upright position and composes a message on his screen-stylus.

Begin Transmit: Angelus
Directive: Mother
SigIdent: Emperor Gorrm
Encryption: Imperial Standard

Greetings again, Angelan Mother

Your offer of reparations is generous indeed, but not needed. The losses occured have been recouped already, and loose ends are being tied up in regards to that.

I am reticent to send someone in person until I am assured of their safety. The issue of rampancy causes me worry, and while you may have it under control, I would like to know that steps are being taken to prevent such an outbreak from occuring once more. Any information you can divulge on this would be welcome.

We, as a people, are not prone to tourist travel and sight-seeing to easily. Once safety is assured, an envoy would be sent. Perhaps we could set up an embassy after, but that is for the future to discuss.

Emperor Gorrm
End Transmit

###BEGIN TRANSMISSION###
~>Route: Mother - Gorrm, Sakkra:
[Begin] {

I understand your caution, and it is completely acceptable.

As for providing proof of the absence of rampancy, there is none that I can give that would not be suspect. There are those that can vouch for my sincerity, such as Alshai Kommetrez and perhaps SHODAN, but other than that, I can only say that the Imperator Himself would not come to the WorldDisc if He was unsure of His safety.

I await the day when we can once again communicate not only as allies, but as friends.

} [End]
~>Route closed
###END TRANSMISSION###

---
Mother
The Angelic Mainframe

Membership: Triumvirate of Yut, Deus Ex Machina Consortium

The twin Excelsior-class Motherships slid to a stop on either side of the Divine Intervention, their escort fighters streaming out and around the trio of capitol ships, providing a protective sphere surrounding them. A few moments pass as the permission protocols were put into place, then all three ships push forward into Triumvirate space.

---

On the WorldDisc, preperations were completed at a frantic pace. A whole section at the heart of the WorldDisc was flooded with oxygen, the quarters of the Imperator being cleansed and re-opened for the first time in thousands of years.

Hundreds of constructs, under the direct supervision of Xanatu, completed the final repairs and cosmetic decorations, creating within the Central Core the floating home of their beloved Imperator.

The quarters themselves consisted of an entire suite of rooms arrayed in a ring that remained stasis within the Core itself, ringed about the massive construct that was the Mainframe. Several access ports existed for the entrance and exit of both organic and inorganic life forms into the open space surrounding the Core. Two huge gun barges rotated through the empty space, their gunmounts controlled by four constructs created for this purpose alone.

Within the rooms, opulence was without question. Polished black marble covered the floors, and dark-grained mahogany walls were the staple. Banners of the finest materials lined the halls, each one depicting various points throughout the Caelistis Gens Imperial history.

The Throne Room itself was magnificent, taking up an entire section of the ring, its spacious precincts seemed to be more fit to be on a planet than in a huge disc floating through space. A replica of the Imperator's massive iron throne sat at one end underneath an impressive array of banners and draperies. Black and silver silk, overlaid with imperial purple lined the room, and the floor was polished to a sheen that it reflected the dozens of lights that floated about the room on their own gravimetric tracks.

---

It is but a few minutes before the powerful docking beams pulled the Divine Intervention into a rarely-used docking bay on the other side of the Disc from the Organic Sector. It slid perfectly into its gravimetric cradles, and several dozen HoverDiscs floated into place to provide an adequate docking ramp.

Standing before the cradle is the entire assembly of the X-series, together in physical form for the first time in centuries. Their humaniform avatars were dressed in the dress uniforms of the Imperial Navy, perfect in every way. Principle among them stood Xanone, resplendant in silver and black, his pressed black uniform strangely devoid of any medals save a single silver-and-onyx cross hanging at his throat.

ooc:

Just as a thought, since everyone seems to have forgotten this thread....

I'm accepted back with no restrictions?

Begin Transmit: Angelus
Directive: Mother
SigIdent: Emperor Gorrm
Encryption: Imperial Standard

It is well, then. I will send a member of the Imperial Court of high ranking to journey to your locale and begin talks. This being will act as my Eyes and Ears, and operate under my personal authority. Anything I could be requested of, can be requested of this individual. They will be known by the Imperial Seal on their vestments.

I look forward to future news of your meeting, and what has resulted from them.

Emperor Gorrm
End Transmit
*********************************************************

Fluid time engines, engage!

The Reptavian MCU shuttle approached at full speed at first, and then slowed as the World Disc came into view. Its escort of a trio of Swatter aero-space drones flanked the shuttle at all sides possible above and below with their weapons powered down.

Inside the shuttle Ambassador Bosska and his trio of aides went over their notes on the Angelan Mother and all pertinent information as to their more recent doings of late with much 'mmm-hmmmm'ing. The shuttle transmitted its SigIdent codes and awaited a response.

Hands clench tightly at the news of the gathering on the recently restored WorldDisc. The leather backed chair creaks ominously.

"Sir?" Ben frowns and inspects his lord and mentor carefully. EIs. I hadn't realised he never got over it. "Do we respond?"

"No." Treznor practically bites off the word as it ends. "Mother wants to play it cool, she'll get it cool. Excuses of 'rampancy' and 'reboots' notwithstanding. I've heard no apology and no retraction of the 'yes or no' demand she made."

"So we wait and see what the Triumvirate does about them?" Ben shakes his head. "I'm not comfortable with that."

"The Triumvirate will do whatever it bloody well wants to without us. I'm not giving those mechanical bastards the satisfaction."

"Sir, with respect, you really ought to send a representative to at least be seen, if not heard. We've been quiet for a while; this could look like the beginning of an isolationist phase. Unless you've decided on a new policy you haven't shared with me, that could spell trouble for us."

Treznor glares at his Minister of Intelligence, then growls and swings his chair to stare at the wall. After a moment he sighs. "Fine. Send Greene. Put her on a Scolopendran shuttle by herself, and make sure this time she keeps her damned mouth shut. Not a word out of her. She is to be seen and not heard, and I'll want a detailed report on everything that happens."

Damn, he's pissed. Ben nods quickly. "Yes, Sir."

"Get out of here."

Some of what was sent did nothing to comfort Nathicana. Mention of secrets and remaining burried, for example. Still, there was nothing for it but to move forward, for good or ill.

There was only one point on which she insisted remaining firm.

We would prefer it if the Angelan minds were withdrawn entirely back to the mainframe. We see no need to sever your citizens from the collective, nor for us to hold them in stasis for problems they cannot be held responsible for.

We have been working closely with the minds behind the Caloris Basin to repair and rebuild our systems, as at the time, it seemed that Angelus was no more. Action had to be taken, and we would prefer to continue along the course we have with assistance, been able to lay out.

Communications with Caloris, and more directly, Ruth, would be the most direct means of freeing your citizens as she is the one currently assisting us with the repairs.

As for your assurance on 'secrets' and the like ... I'm certain I haven't the slightest idea as to what you may be referring to. Our dealings have always been transparent and direct. I can only assume that such musings are due to your having lost such a great deal of memory from the past while. I offer my condolences on that - to understand that much has happened that you cannot recall must be a terrible burden for those accustomed to having most any information needed at their fingertips. I hope in time that you are able to adjust, and the recent chaos does no more damage than has already been done.

Cordially,

--Nathicana D'Aquisto, Dread Lady and First Imperatrice of the Dominion