NationStates Jolt Archive

'Hermes Alliance annual meeting number one. April 24th, 2885. 4/24/85.' chirped the robotic voice of a data recorder as Sheikh Navarrone entered the meeting hall, which he had provided for the course of this meeting. The atmosphere was taciturn and practical. Grey reinforced concrete walls, occasionally adorned with the odd tapestry or holographic projector, surrounded an oval mahogany table. The floor was hastily covered with a purple rug, which possessed an image of the flag of the Hermes Alliance. The Aumanii flag flanked the right side of the entrance, and that of Hermes on the left. The seats selected for the delegates were marked clearly with a golden name plate, marked with the signatures of each nation.

Navarrone slapped a thick folder down in front of him and made sure his adjutant had the bar ready to go, before waiting for the others to arrive.

Tsar Xavier walked into the meeting with out pomp or circumstance. Two dark wisps of black fog trailed behind him, and it was a second or two before those there and who would be getting there realized that they were in fact his guards and aides.

Xavier himself wore a newer outfit crafted for him from the temples on Drakk'nvi. IT couldn't be seen, but beneath it all was a Klimananitoz -- a Dersconi undersuit made of a type of nanite for temperature regulation with clothing and the likes, while maintaining a body-fitting, yet immensely flexible form. The first visible garment, though, was a black simar made of silk from the Vr'krachzto spider, strong enough to stop most projectile weaponry, while having almost zero dexterity inhibitions. It was very loose beyond the waist, going down to the ankles, almost giving it a skirt-like feel. Above the waist, the loose fit remained, although there was at least form to it, seven gold buttons going up to a stiff mandarin collar. The shoulder capes of the simar were a dark crimson, rather than the black of the rest of the garment, two dark gold Imperial Eagles centred over the breast area. Strange patterns of dark crimson and gold lined the rest of the simar, giving it a very eerie, dark, and imposing feel. The black and gold sash of the Order of the Imperial Crown went from his right shoulder to left hip, and wrapping back again. His black belt was adorned with a buckle depicting two interlocking dragons with ruby eyes, and hanging from the belt was a loincloth with three vertical stripes -- crimson, and black in the middle. Just above the belt, Tsar Xavier wore a gold fringed Fascia, the coat of arms of Derscon embroidered at the tail end. Around his neck, the Tsar wore three Engolpions -- one depicting the triheaded dragon, one the Imperial Eagle, and the other, the Andropov family's coat of arms. Over it all, the Tsar wore a black cope, with golden dragons embroidered along the sides and back. Tsar Xavier wore a black and crimson mask that covered his entire face, shaped vaguely like a skull. There were, in fact, no viewports -- Xavier used his pisonics to see and manoeuvre. The hood of his custom simar was also up, and one could see his sword under the cope. Overall, Tsar Xavier, once again, provided an imposing and domineering presence to any meeting.

Noticing his good friend Navarrone, Xavier waved with a black gloved hand, and communicated with him telepathically. Ah, wonderful to see you again. What's this about, anyway? Normally, he'd ask for a drink, but that would involve taking off his mask. Xavier wasn't covered from head to toe just for kicks. The sheer strength of his power, as well as his...less human...genetics, were beginning to shine through, corrupting and morphing his body into something remarkably less attractive than he once was.

For the first time in the history of the alliance, the Aumanii delegation had been the first to arrive. Shortly after, however, the second representitive arrived in the form of Tsar Xavier. King Damien Nightbane, the current monarch of the Eternal Kingdom, walked into the council chamber. He was flanked on each side by a young girl of maybe seven winters. Nieces, perhaps? As he walked in he witnessed Navarrone clutching his head.

"Charles, no! Get out of my head!" shouted the Aumanii.

"Am I inturrupting something?" questioned the Shanderan king.

The Princeps Iuventutis, Alaric Newman, entered the room. He wore most of his grandfather's old garb when he served as Imperator: The gold-plate armor, the red cape and gold Sol Invictus clasp... everything but two items: His grandfather's helm, which was safely back in the Citadel of New Freeport... and the True Sword of the Imperator, which was in the hands of the Praetorian Guard (in the care of the Cult of the Imperator, the religious and true administrative head of the Guard).

The young man of 20 was now old enough to try his hand at taking hold of the sword his grandfather left behind after his death. Since Ares had not found it necessary to strip the sword from the moral realm, it could only be assumed that a worthy heir was available to claim it. This, of course, meant that the Praetorian Guard grew nervous with each passing day. If the Princeps Iuventutis could not grasp the sword and surpass his mother for control of the Imperium, the Guard would probably make a move not unlike that which deposed the Aelius Dynasty in A.C. 1905.

The question was raised, however, on whether or not such action (despite its goals) could be construed as a coup or outright treason. If the Praetorian Guard supported a wielder of the True Sword of the Imperium, then it was viewed as a legitimate transfer of power... whether the current Imperator or Imperatrix viewed it. His mother understood the dangers and told him she planned to step down into a lesser role should he be capable of handling the sword... seeing as failure would mean both of their deaths.

The heir entered the room, as he had done many times before in the last eight years. He quietly took his seat and reviewed his diplomatic dossier, making sure he was well informed before the meeting began in earnest.

Emperor Julius Mundus XIV walked into the room, his Cuban-heeled boots clicked officially as he stepped over to his friends and colleauges. His simple, elegant maoist uniform was unobtrusive yet elegant with a few golden decorations and a bejeweled collar. The smile that had been passed on from one Mundus to another for centuries flashed as he made his presence known.

"Hello gentlemen. Not starting without Belkaros, I trust." he said, shaking hands with the gathered leaders.

Navarrone shook hands with Emperor Mundus and began to feel under dressed in his black t-shirt and matching fatigues. 'The bar is open, but I suggest we don't hit it too hard till after we vote on some issues.' said Sheikh, entirely seriously. In any other diplomatic meeting, one could think a comment such as that would be lighthearted, however this was a room filled with people who should probably be attending alcoholics anonymous.

'As the host of this meeting, I will take the liberty of fielding the first issue for us to review.' said Sheikh, blowing the foam off the top of his beer as it was handed to him. 'The Galileo, under the command of Bryn Shander's Admiral Thompson, along with the Minotaur under Tyz'juan, have discovered seemingly sentient life in the system of Cannakalle. Apparently a race of thinking fish people, allegedly capable of empathic communication...though, this has yet to be proven scientifically, I find it to be interesting. My question is, after King Nightbane explains more indepthly the diplomatic situation, how do we proceed?'

Navarrone's adjutant stealthily placed dossiers in front of the others as they waited, stacked with all the relevent information on the issue.

Nightbane had his own documents to reference as Navarrone began. The girls sat to either side of him, sipping on drinks with crazy straws and tiny umbrellas. The Shanderan king took a swig of his own beer before begining.

"Using the Minotaur as leverage, Admiral Thompson has convinced the fish to open their ports to our vessels. This is important because the Galileo's scans indicate that the Cannakalle system is packed full of enough Hermium to keep us supplied at current levels for a good ten years. Given that we have the representatives for two nations slated for a vote on membership here, it should be easy to see that we need to expand our supply of Hermium. Our mages have also reported a strong weave on the planet. Since we're all Jannarii here, I shouldn't need to explain why that's important."

"Speaking of the induction of new members, King Nightbane, would it not be best to start there, so that our opinions could also be voiced on this and other issues?" suggested Mundus, who proceded to sip his Mr.Mundus, the favorite cola of Belkaros, through a straw equal in crazyness to those of Nightbane's companions. "No impropriety intended, but it seems that this issue, and what others are to come, would be better addressed by new members as well. Oh, and does anyone mind if I smoke?" he added, drawing a golden cigar tube from his uniform and uncapping it, releasing the heavenly aroma of pure Belkan tobacco.

"Whatever, lets just get down to business," Newman said as he looked over his paperwork. After hearing the reports, Newman leaned forward in his chair, putting his pen on the table as he did so. "This development sounds very advantageous. It is much better than I can report for New Haven's last few first contact situations."

Although no one could see it, Xavier smirked underneath his mask. Very few were Jannarii any more, and Xavier most definitely wasn't. That didn't in any way diminish King Nightbane's statement, though. Xavier was well aware of the importance of the weave for people (himself included, since Xavier taught himself to tap all forms of energy flow).

After hearing both delegates speak, Xavier communicated with them all telepathically, since his voice would be that of a low growl of a dragon attempting to make humanoid syllables.

"Derscon, being entirely self-sufficient and nearing a post-scarcity economy, has not branched out of its own territory for some time, so obviously has had no first contact situations in the current era. However, we would agree with Emperor Mundus. The admissions process should be the first thing on the table. Namely for Belkaros, merely for formality and technicality purposes."

"Thank you," said Mundus, snapping his fingers, which lit his cigar. He blew out a small parade of blueish white smoke rings as he waited for the issue to be voted on, confident that soon Belkaros would be a member of the Hermes Alliance.

As the Box Social began in earnest, a small space-time disturbance opened just above the seat vacated and labeled as Outer Heaven MK II's. At first all that was visible was a tiny warping in the air but after a few seconds it started to open, revealing a swirling deep blue portal. As the air was whipped around the room the portal opened to about the size of a person, and after a few moments and a few unrepeatable curses, a man dropped into the seat, brushing off his suit and smoothing off his hair.

Genztocommandant Snake smiled at all the leaders, and nodded at Nightbane and Navarrone. "Gentlemen, it's a pleasure to be here, and I apologize for my lateness. We had a slight problem aligning the Subspace Pillars, and I actually ended up in deep space several light years from here..." He said, the portal above him closing up with a slight popping sound. Taking out a device very reminiscent of a laptop, Snake lifted the screen up, and powered up the device.

"So what have I missed?"

"I'm going to have to ask that there be no further teleportations into the council chamber under penalty of death. We have a door for a fucking reason." said Nightbane as he finished his beer. "Now unless there are any further objections, I'm going to change the issue at hand to the admissions of the Imperium of Belkaros and the Empire of Outer Heaven into the Hermes Alliance."

After getting one of his girls to get him another beer and patting her on the head as a reward for a good job, Nightbane called for the vote.

"Bryn Shander casts two votes for the admission of both nations."

Xavier didn't move a muscle when Genztocommandant Snake entered, but did make a very obvious nod after King Nightbane's motion. Xavier again "spoke" telepathically.

"The Divine Prussian Empire will cast it's vote in favour of membership for both nations."

Navarrone lit a cigarette and pondered for a brief moment about how he should cast his vote. 'I see no reason why Outer Heaven and the Belkans shouldn't join Hermes. My vote is in favour.'

Sheikh took a deep drag, then a swig of beer, with the smoke still in his lungs before exhaling.

'Mr. Newman?'

"I'm also going to have to ask that there be no further use of telepathy as well." stated the Shanderan king as he turned his beer into the classic example of the debate between pessimists and optimists.


"The Imperium of New Haven casts both of its votes in favor of the admissions." came the vote from Newman.

"Very well." stated Nightbane as all six votes were accounted for. "With a unanimous decision, both nations are admitted to the Hermes Alliance and shall have one vote in this council." said Nightbane as he emptied the glass once again. The girl got up and ran to the bar again.

"Now, back to the previous subject. It is my opinion that we establish a permanent presense in the Cannakalle system, both military and civilian. I feel that the colonization and exploitation of the system's primary planet should be the alliance's main priority for the time being." explained the Shanderan king once again. His girl returned with a new beer for the second time, and again recieved a pat on the head as thanks. "Mr. Snake, you'll find a folder containing the relevent data on the Cannakalle system on your desk."

'I'd have to agree with Damien, here. The Cannakalle system is too much of a liability to us if it is left alone. Especially if the raider forces that the Au-1477 encountered turn out to be interested in more than just some dynamite rolls.' said Sheikh, taking a long chug of his beer in an effort to keep up with the Shanderan Monarch. 'It is still the Aumanii belief that Hermes should have a monopoly on Hermium. It is entirely unacceptable to me, and hopefully yourselves, for such a powerful resource to fall into the hands of the primitive, stick waving, apes that run amok in the galaxy.'

Sheikh got up with his glass and stood behind the bar, pouring himself another drink. 'Furthermore, the Amauntor system is choked with Jannarii life. And while I see no problems with my honoured allies breeding habits, I think we all can agree that we need more breathing space. And speaking on my own behalf, there's no way in hell I'd live on a planet with a weak or non-existant weave.'

Navarrone returned to his seat and pounded back on the pint he'd brought with him. Wiping his mouth before proceeding, Navarrone eyed everyone in the room carefully. 'The discovery of Cannakalle and its strong similarity to Vascilia, and to a lesser extent Jannath, has me thinking that there are more worlds out there like our own...' Sheikh said with a hint of wonder in his voice. 'We must secure Cannakalle. And beyond that, we must seek out and control any other worlds out there with these two powerful resources.'

Mundus stood and bowed, thanking the council for the admission of his Empire. He sat again and spoke. "I suggest we subsidize the native population once we learn what we can from them. We obviously have the superior technology, why not use it?" offered Mundus, puffing his cigar and now using his influence over the weave to create small dragons of smoke and flying them around his folder. "We could use them to harvest the Hermium without the expense of underwater life support for our people."

"Sounds like a good idea, in principle," Alaric noted. "Of course, I don't trust other sentient species with jobs that my people can probably do better. Do not forget that New Haven has the best miners in the alliance, and I'm inclined to try and secure as many jobs from this as possible to alleviate a growing... problem with unemployment."

At first, Xavier was irritated at King Nightbane's request, but he could understand where he was coming from, and decided to respect it. One of the black wisps materialised, forming a cloaked figure, hood up, the shadows making it look like the creature had no face at all. Xavier used telepathy to communicate with the figure and the figure alone, as to respect their wishes to not have their minds continuously probed. The figure spoke with what almost seemed to be two voices -- a deep resonant bass, and an eerie whisper layered over it.

"The Tsar believes that both proposals could be synthesised into the most optimal solution. The sentients of Cannakalle could help in the production of the necessary conditions for mining operations, but New Haven may oversee and carry out the mining operations. Beyond mining, though, we believe Emperor Mundus has the correct solution."

"Actually, the HTCC will be overseeing and carrying out the mining operations. That's why it was created. However, it would seem that the general attitude here is that Cannakalle is a valuable asset that must be secured. As such, I motion that the Cannakalle system be annexed by the alliance and placed under control of the HTCC. The Eternal Kingdom's votes are both in support of this motion." said Nightbane as he finished the beer and sent the loli back to the bar yet again.

"The Imperium of Belkaros supports this notion, but wonders how the territory of the planet is to be divided amongst our nations." said Mundus, motioning for the aid of Nightbane to bring him something a little stronger than cola. "Will we be dividing the territory amongst our nations, or will we hold it as an alliance to be used for the good of our union?" he asked, his smoke dragons reforming into little Centurions that fired smoke lazers at smoke fishpeople, causing them to fall to puffs of nothing on his folder.

"The Imperium opposes this view and votes two votes against," Alaric noted. "For the record, New Haven will not exercise the use of its veto. Our two votes against are a strong enough show of opposition on their own."

Navarrone eyed the Belkan dubiously. 'While I respect your enthusiasm, I don't believe Hermes was ever intended to be used as a mechanism for Imperialism. The Fishmen will naturally be approached diplomatically. Their willing membership in Hermes is a must and only as a last resort will I consider forceful subjugation as an option. I vote in favour of opening diplomatic ties with Cannakalle. I don't care how we convince them to give us the Hermium as long as we can get it out of foreign hands and somewhere safe.'

Liquidus nodded at Navarrone. "While our nation likes a good battle, I see no reason to annex these fishmen and their planet. I vote against the motion, or vote in support of diplomacy, whichever serves the alliance better."

Liquidus picked up the file under his laptop, and in a few seconds put it back down, having read the entire thing cover to cover.

'There is a compromise.' spoke a gravelly voiced man from a shadowy corner of the room. 'Meet Colonel Thurmon Tomasz, everyone.' said Navarrone, introducing the newcomer. 'Aboard Chimera, there is a team of specialist Troopers...' said Tomasz ominously. Tomasz waited for the complete attention of those assembled. 'They are trained in a unique form of negotiation.' he continued, grinning like a Jackal.

The smoke soldiers changed their form as Mundus waved their hands over them, blowing more smoke into their midst and recreating the scene as a small temple, with a smoke humanoid at the top, being praised by fish. "How much more advanced are we from these fishmen? Could we convince them we are divine in some way? If the weave is strong there, Janarii abilities could be quite awe inspiring. The only reason I suggest a more submissive role for these creatures is that if they gain an understanding of our need and usages of Hermium, they could potentially use it against us, either by putting unreasonable costs on it or weaponizing it in some way. Diplomacy goes far more smoothly when the treaties come from a god." said Mundus, not wanting to seem to bloodthirsty.
"If more ethical diplomacy is in order," began Mundus thoughtfully, "all of our nations should be represented, lest one of us gain an unfair advantage in terms of the fishpeople's favor."

'As far as I'm aware, Aumanii Forces have touched down on Cannakalle. We have two battlespace domination task forces on station as well. So, if you want to get in on the festivities I suggest you all hurry up. Colonel Tomasz's Special Unit Seven has already landed to begin negotiations as well. If everyone here wants to contribute, they better do so now. Otherwise it'll be all over by the time you get there.' explained Navarrone.

The aide spoke again.

"The Tsar believes a diplomatic solution would be preferable, but the Hermium resources are too good to pass up. As a last resort, if the fish people resist, their total annihilation would be called for. However, the Tsar does not believe such would be needed.

"The fish people will likely agree to membership in the Hermes Alliance. If a submissive role is still desired, all that needs to be done is to ensure that the proper controls are placed on the mining organization, manufacturing and all other processes of refining Hermium so that only those at this table get a share. The Tsar, however, does not believe this will be necessary at the moment. Perhaps the fish people would be worthwhile allies. The Tsar feels they should be given a chance."

The aide looked around and stood up. "It seems then a consensus has been reached. The HTCC will carry out all Hermium operations, and we will seek friendly relations and possible membership in Hermes for the Fish people. Unless they say no, in which case we will show them the other side of Hermes Diplomacy."

A general murmur went over the crowd before the aide spoke again. "The Tsar wishes to address the council."

The aide dissipated once more as Tsar Xavier stood up. Slowly, his hands went up and took down the hood covering his head, and already all could notice the changes. A dark red and black glow came from what looked to be dragon scales lining his back, spikes coming out from the head. When Xavier took the mask off, anyone with even a hint of psionic ability suffered an immensely painful migraine for a few seconds, and they realized the mask also served as a sort of power suppressor, in order to prevent such an event from occurring. Xavier's eyes were a phosphorescent crimson, casting a faint red shadow under his eyes. His noes and mouth were beginning to turn into that of the dragon god a part of him, and even those without the gifts of pisonics could feel the immense psychic -- and demonic -- energy radiating from the Tsar. When he spoke, it came out as a discordant harmony; a whisper, a low resonant baritone/bass, and a beastly growl, all speaking at once to craft disturbing music.

"We feel that there is another issue that needs to be discussed here, and now. That is the issue of the Union of Galactic Federations. To put it simply, we believe that the UGF is a very slim disguise for democratic imperialists trying to portray themselves as galactic saviours. They also openly harbour known genetic undesirables. Therefore, we propose a motion to blacklist the UGF, and all member states."

The Bryn Shanderan king had sent for and emptied two pitchers by the time that the voting had finished. He was not happy about the decision, but had a backup plan should diplomacy fail. When Xavier put on his little show, Nightbane was intrigued.

"Something wrong, Xavier? Why the long face?" came the joke at the expense of the Dersconi sovereign. He recieved a murderous look from the Tsar in response, but laughed it off. "Anyway..." began Nightbane before finishing his current glass. "I second this motion and back it with both of the Eternal Kingdom's votes."

Navarrone laughed really, really hard after King Nightbane delivered that pun. 'Sorry Tsar Xavier, I have a weak spot for puns...' said Sheikh, polishing off his pint and moving on to a third that was placed on the table for him, in the name of efficiency. 'But yes, I've heard of the UGF. I can't tell you much about them other than the Federal Union is a founding member. I agree one hundred percent that all members should be blacklisted until they deal with the issue of the Terrans. I vote in favour.'

Even power can't take away humour. Unless you're a fascist pig, which Xavier wasn't. He chuckled a bit, smirking. "Our face isn't the only thing that's long.

"But yes. Naturally, we vote in favour of the proposal, at least until the UGF is more in line with something compatible with civilized beings, rather than narcissistic imperialists."

Still smiling from the long face remark, Gnaeus continued the leviy. "Be careful of who you call a narcisistic imperialist. I come from a long, healthy line of them," he said with a smile, drinking his recently aquired gin on the rocks, not wanting to be drunk under by the other representatives. "Belkaros casts its vote in support of the blacklisting."

The Tsar smiled, although because of his looks, it was difficult to tell if he was smirking or grinning. "Good sir, I am a Tsar and a god. The difference between us and them are that we aren't assholes. They are. Remember, we're here to prevent people like the UGF and the GE from gaining too much influence in the galaxy. Why? Because they are destabilizing and generally unfriendly forces. Some of us may not be entirely "good," but people can get along with us."

Liquidus grinned, watching the playful and humorous banter go about the room. Obviously he was well at home.

"I guess I vote in favour, although I have no real experience of the alliance itself."

'I don't think any of us have any real past experience to draw on in regards to the majority of the United Galactic Federation, Mr. Snake. This motion is in direct response to the Hyperborean incident, I assume.' Navarrone cast a glance towards Tsar Xavier.

Tsar Xavier nodded. "Yes, the Hyperborean incident is the most recent example of the lack of dependency, to put it lightly, of the United Terran Federation, for one, who is, as we know, a prominent member in the UGF, regardless of title.

"Of course, the Divine Prussian Empire has had many experiences with several members of the UGF, especially CoreWorlds, Anagonia, and the UTF. While we technically share a trade alliance and very strong diplomatic ties to all three -- up to and including a defensive alliance with Anagonia -- we feel that the blacklist is necessary to counter the corrupting influence of the UTF.

Since the initial destruction of all UTF holdings on Earth by Derscon a hundred or so years ago, Derscon has attempted to remain friendly to the UTF for several decades, hoping to persuade it and guide it into a more respectable force in the galaxy. It didn't work. While we regret having to go in the face of both CoreWorlds and Anagonia, it is an unfortunate necessity. Quite frankly, as much as I despise the Galactic Empire, it is a shame they did not manage to take out more of the UTF when they moved the Death Star in."

"Quite so," Alaric noted to the Tsar's comment. "By the way, New Haven adds its two votes in favor of the blacklisting measure." An aide opened the closed meeting room doors, quickly walked over to the Imperial Heir, gave him a sealed envelope and then quickly walked out. The Imperial heir opened the sealed envelope and examined the letter contained inside of it. "This is an interesting development... It would appear that my coronation date has been changed... it would appear that I am to be crowned Imperator in three days!"

"So be it. With a unanimous vote of eight votes in favor and none opposed, the UGF is to be placed on the blacklist." announced the Shanderan king.

"Which brings us to the next issue. Like the UGF, another would be state has recently formed. The Cyprian Circle. Again like the UGF, they also count the United Terran Federation as a member state. Because of this, I must also propose that a blacklist be placed on the Cyprian Circle as well. Both of Bryn Shander's votes are for this measure, obviously."

'No shit, eh?' said Sheikh, slapping Alaric Newman on the back. 'Raise your glasses, men!' Navarrone said while raising his beer, quickly polishing it off afterward. 'The Cyprian Circle, what is it?' asked the inebriated Aumanii leader, after being handed another pint by his adjutant. 'I vote in favour of the blacklist, as I fundamentally agree with curbing the influence of the Federals. In the last few years all of us have tried in some way to assist the nation and its string of newly "elected" officials in some way or another.' Sheikh emphasized with air quotations.

'I also propose we develop a more complete intelligence database. And we all know what that means...' Sheikh could hear a disgruntled sigh from Tomasz Thurmon. 'Hermes needs to develop a combined intelligence sharing apparatus. A Hermes Intelligence Directorate, or something to that effect.'

'Furthermore...' Thurmon's eyes rolled in anticipation of Navarrone's words. 'I propose at least a limited standardization of Hermes military forces in the name of interoperability. Close to the Vascilian method, where the three nations of the League are capable of working together in large scale military operations, while still maintaining different ship types and weapons technology.'

The Tsar shook his head. "We know very little of The Cyprian Circle, and are not willing to cast our votes in favour of a blacklist at this time. While our feelings toward the UTF are less than favourable, we are not about to go and cut off relations with everything that may have been touched by it.

"We would also support a combined intelligence system, details to be worked out later.

However, the Empire is...remarkably hesitant when you speak of standardization. It all depends what would be required."

New Haven votes two votes in favor of all three proposals," Alaric Newman noted as he poured himself a glass of ice water from a pitcher on the desk. "The additional blacklisting, the joint intelligence agency and the standardization initiative."

Liquidus shook his head.

"Outer Heaven will only lend its votes to the Joint Intelligence Directive. We don't need to blacklist every single nation that's ever been influenced by the UTF, and standardization of the alliance's military will wreck havoc on all of us. Imagine all the training and decommissioning we'd have to do...many of my best Commanders would sooner resign than leave behind their ships and what they've learned."

Emperor Mundus thought, drank, then thought some more."Belkaros supports the unified intelligence plan, but I think the standardized military program will need to be a little more fleshed out before it should be voted on. As to the blacklisting, what exactly are the reasons this organization is on the chopping block?"

The reason is that they have been corrupted by the United Terran Federation. The UTF is like a seed of chaos itself and will soon spread its roots within both alliances until they are overgrown with it. The blacklisting is to do two things. One, it will prevent that corruption from spreading into Hermes. I know that our friend Xavier here has had close relations with some of the nations involved with the blacklistings, and it is for the protection of the Dersconi people that we must bring this issue to the table. Secondly, the blacklisting of these alliances is designed to be a shock to their governments and economies. Something to encourage them to re-think their association with the UTF."

Nightbane had his aides run several more empty glasses back to the bar and exchange them for full ones before continuing.

"Furthermore, I'm going to have to request that we refrain from proposing and voting on new measures while the current issue is still on the table. There will be plenty of time for the discussion of intelligence and standardization when the blacklist voting has finished."

'The vote on the blacklisting is over, my friend.' said Navarrone, raising his fist to about eye level. 'Five votes in favour.' Sheikh extended his four fingers and his thumb. 'To three.' Sheikh raised three more fingers on his other hand. 'I agree that if we extend a blacklist to one alliance we must do the same for others. I don't know a god damn thing about the Cyprian Circle, but we can't be hypocrites. If we'll do it for one, we must do it for the other. There's no question in my mind about that.'

'As far as standardization of military equipment is concerned...' Sheikh said, emphasizing his words with his hands. 'We definitely need to standardize our communications equipment. My fleet is just now installing signal lights, thanks to Shanderan electronic counter measures. The issue of communication is what I'm highlighting here at this time. An alliance cannot operate effectively during wartime if it is unable to communicate. In the future I'd like to visit the concept of standardizing ammunition types, though this should be left for a time when our combined militaries look into upgrading weaponry, to avoid inconvenience.'

Tsar Xavier shook his head. "It would not be hypocritical to not deal with the Cyprians when we know nothing about them. the UGF was blacklisted because the UTF was a prominent -- nay, a founding -- member. It is not prudent to take a course of action without first investigating the situation in its entirety."

After Navarrone explained the standardization, the Tsar thought a moment, and shrugged. "Perhaps. Compatibility of communciations systems is of course essential. However, one can be compatible without being uniform."

"I agree that the communications and munitions should be standardized, at least in weapons and devices that our nations have in common. For example, we should have universal beam and ballistic munitions for common weapons, but unique rounds for nation specific armaments. Same thing with the comm devices." said Mundus, draining his second glass of gin.

"New Haven seconds the recommendation by King Nightbane that we only attend to one order of business at a time and forwards its two votes in favor," Alaric replied before finishing his glass of water. He reached into his shirt and pulled out a half-pint of genuine New Haven Potato 'Vodka' (190 proof) and poured himself a shot. He drank it down quickly and slammed the shot down, his face cringing slightly as he swallowed the nearly pure ethanol.

He set the bottle down on the table as he overheard the discussion on standardization continue. Seeing as he had already voted in favor, he didn't need to vote again unless he wanted to rescind his votes... at least, thats what he thought.

"My nation's warship and fighter designs have been adopted by two of the other nations present here, as some of you may know. Both the Havenics and the Belkans are using ships from the Axis Design Bureau. All three of our nations use the same parts, ammunition, fuels, and shipyards. Any ship from any of our three nations can be completely rearmed or refitted in a port belonging to either of the other two nations. More importantly, this common technology allows unrivaled coordination on the battlefield." stated Nightbane as he produced a small model of the cruiser Suiseiseki.

"I'm not sure if you are all aware of this, but the reactors used by Shanderan designs emit highly charged particles known as Minovsky Particles. These particles naturally align into a dense lattice that blocks all forms of low level electromagnetic radiation including radio, microwaves, and infrared. This renders most common communications and tracking systems completely useless." explained the Shanderan king, now placing a model of an Aumanii cruiser alongside the model of Suiseiseki.

"Furthermore, the high electrical charge of the particles destroys any unprotected electronics. It takes heavy shielding to protect electronics from the constant EMP like effect, making missiles and drones equally useless. Many an enemy has been completely obliterated when relying on missile and drone spam to combat my forces. It would be unfortunate if one of my allies were to be crippled by our countermeasures in the same way simply because they were unprepared. I must therefore propose that all naval forces of alliance nations be retrofitted for compatibility with the joint Shanderan technologies and combat doctrines. I'm not saying that everyone needs to adopt our designs as the Havenics and Belkans have, but I am saying that the use of missiles and unmanned drones be limited to special cases."

Mundus eyed the models enviously, making a small note to himself to have some made for the next meeting, or for the next time he was bored. "What if we moved to a standard set of ship designs and divide the new contracts amongst the Alliance? We could all contribute our own technologies and through this unity become far more powerful, though we can certainly keep some secrets and unique weapons. I'm sure none of you want a crew of Centurions on your ships."

Tsar Xavier sighed, frustrated at the Shanderan proposal. "Derscon will, of course, not adopt any vessel from any nation into major use in the Imperial Navy.

"However, this is not the first case Derscon has been forced into this position, with electronics being served relatively useless. Due to the anomalies presented not only on some of the worlds the Empire consists of, but even in the Tundarian Expanse itself, electronics have proven worthless. It is not only why EMP-shielding tech has been mastered by the Dersconi, but also why we have never left our psionic roots.

"Typically, our drone fighters have not been shielded simply for expense purposes. Not that we couldn't afford it, but we simply didn't feel it entirely necessary, as drone fighters have always been expendable. Missiles, of course, have always been EMP hardened. While there would be a slight dent in the defence budget, what with refitting the factories on the Muspelheim supercarriers and all, seeing as we would not be harmed by such a relatively minor expense, we see no reason to ajust our entire fleet makeup to suit the Shanderan needs." He then turned to Mundus.

"Absolutely not, the Empire would never agree to such a proposal. There is no need to standardize fleet makeups in the alliance."

"I must disagree." retorted Mundus. "A standardized fleet will allow for far easier expansion. One type of dock per colony, one type of con-yard per vessel, one type of replacement part, et cetera. Our forces would be much more able to successfully pool resources in combat situations and share supplies if cut off. Perhaps to moderate the proposal, we could all maintain a small number of task force vehicles of the same type to be used in conjunction with another."

The Tsar once again shook his head. "Hermes is a trade alliance, not a superstate. Even in Greater Prussia, that kind of standardization is not seen. The style of armaments is part of Dersconi culture, and it's unlikely that Dersconi technology would be very compatible with any Hermes technology, due to our use of technopsionics. We are also not willing to give them up, as it defines who we are. No, we will not lose the Dersconi national identity to make a jump to this kind of standardization that would provide only a small benefit compared to the loss of our culture."

"Mister Xavier." began Nightbane. "You really should take a better look at the alliance charter if you think that we're a trade alliance. Even more so if you think that the Divine Prussian Empire can simply ignore this council's democratic mandates. If we vote to do something, you are expected to do it just as much as Sheikh, Alaric, or I am."

Another glass was emptied.

"If you don't like the way that the voting is going, perhaps in the future you should try to bring in new members that would be more likely to vote in your favor."

"Well, Mister Xavier, I don't think technopsionics would be included in the standardization listings," Alaric said as he reviewed his paperwork on the subject. "I would stand to believe that this standardization would include communications methods, encryption and decryption methods, projectile weapon ammunition and launchers, docking ports, things of that nature." The Imperial Heir poured himself another shot and slammed it down. He was starting to get buzzed from the first shot, and the second shot was just the icing on the cake for the frequent drinker.

"Exactly. Your technopsionics, our biological weapons, and whatever other nation specific technologies each of our nations utalize will not be streamlined, just the aspects already discussed." reiterated Mundus. "The munitions don't even have to come from the same launchers, just as long as their basic components are the same." his third gin disappeared as he finished his arguement.

Tsar Xavier merely ignored the arrogant Nightbane's comment. It wasn't worth causing a fight over. However, he did listen to Alaric's explanation, which helped settle some of his personal conflict with the ideas of standardization.

"I see. Well, perhaps, then, it would be possible. Complete and pure standardization will not be, due to not only Derscon's...unique...architectural and technological quirks, as well as our compatibility with other allied nations, but if it is indeed limited to what you said, then perhaps such can be implimented. It would not be remarkably difficult, nor expensive, to run parallel communications systems, for instance, in order to remain functional within a Hermes joint task force, as well as operate as Dersconi ships are to be operated."

"Well then, I suggest we put the issue to vote. All in favor of standardizing forces to the Shandarian archetype, cast your vote." said Mundus, with more authority in his voice. "The Imperium of Belkaros votes to standardize."

The Tsar thought to himself for a moment, debating on whether to vote. Well, I suppose the wording is vague enough that it can't be used to force Derscon to adapt an all-Shanderan navy. They clarified the points, and I can deal with what was explained. If anything further is attempted, then I'll just say no, since it wasn't part of the initial agreement. Satisified with his justification, he nodded to the group.

"Derscon votes in favour of the motion."

"I'm afraid that I'm going to have to use my veto here." said Nightbane before emptying another glass. "Although I don't like the idea of using it, Mundus has failed to define exactly what will be standardized. It could be anything from stationary to uniforms to requiring everyone to adopt New Havenic bricks. I've written an amendment to the charter on this napkin here, but I'm a bit buzzed so please pardon any errors or poor penmanship."

The Bryn Shanderan king had one of the two girls pass copies of the amendment, also written on napkins, around to the other representatives while sending the other to re-fill his glass.


Article Ten - Amendments

Amendment I - Operational Interoperability

All vessels of member nations are to be equipped with signal lamps for communications and LIDAR systems for tracking and rangefinding while under the effects Minovsky Particle interference. Due to the nature of the interference, all member nations will also refrain from the use of guided missiles and unmanned drones as much as possible.

"We will now begin the voting on this amendment. The Eternal Kingdom casts its two votes for the amendment."

Tsar Xavier looked over the amendment. "If the wording can be changed to 'all member nations will also refrain from the use of guided missiles and unmanned drones as much as possible in joint Hermes operations' then we shall vote in favour of the amendment."

"I'm afraid that I cannot accept such an alteration." stated the Shanderan king. "Continuing to rely on those technologies will only ensure thhat you will be fighting at a severely reduced capacity during an alliance action or any other time that electromagnetic interference is present. This scenario is simply unacceptable."

"The New Haven Imperium will vote two votes in favor of the unamended amendment," Alaric said as he finished a third shot from his bottle, the second shot already starting the room into a mild spin.

"Belkaros supports this better worded motion" said Mundus, slightly pouting over the veto of his motion. He destroyed these feelings, along with a few brain cells, with another glass of gin.

Tsar Xavier shrugged. "Then we will vote no." He thought to himself. Of course, this will pass, as it always does. Well, they will probably use the 'yes, it's signed, therefore legally binding in Derscon, like any other law in Derscon.' Well, as Tsar, I have the power to interpret the law as I please. I'll just have to do that, then. Satisfied, he leaned back and allowed things to continue.

Navarrone started to realize he was the one who had the least to drink in the entire room as the assembled comrades slur semantics. 'I have a way to make you all quit your bitching.' said Navarrone, who himself was also quit drunk by this point. 'The Aumanii Fleet makes great use of guided missiles in independent operations. However, as an example. One of Gorgon's sixteen launch tubes can fire 3,200 missiles per minute in the guided or dumb fire modes. Vascilian fleets train together often and the Aumanii military has learned ways to deal with the difficulties of Minovsky effects. The Fleet just switches to rock 'n roll and lets loose with 3,200 rounds of justice. I believe the Dersconi fleets can learn to adapt their ships and missiles to deal with Minovsky particles as we have. I think an amendment to that proposal should be that our naval forces should come together bi-annually, like our meetings here, to train and improve our warfighting skills as an alliance.'

Navarrone swirled his beer before speaking again. 'I vote in favour of standardization of communications, ammunition, etcetera. But only if we agree to organize training operations on a regular basis. It just makes sense. Also, it would be intelligent if we stationed officers in one another's national military bases, training camps and what not to learn one another's doctrines for the sake of understanding our differences.'

Sheikh glanced over at Mundus with a hint of disdain. 'Our differences are our strengths. And I don't like biological weapons.'

Navarrone slammed back his beer, suppressing volatile memories of the Grey Phage.

"Not biological weapons, Sheikh, bio-weapons. Our Centurions, Malii, and other genetically altered armed forces. I don't believe in using biological weapons, they are too harmful to civilians. My BOWs require special maintanance and living quarters Belkan ships are adapted for, something that would not make sense to standardize. Other than that point, I agree wholeheartedly." said Mundus, before growing serious at the news his PDA reported to him. "Belkan forces in Alpha Delgrassi attempting to secure two new Weave worlds have been threatened by a ship from Hyperspatial Travel, who is as you know a Cyprian Circle member. My men are attempting to defuse this hostile situation before fighting breaks out, but my forces may require some assistance. My geologists have reason to believe that one of the worlds contains a large Hermium deposit as well, a resource that Belkaros is more than willing to share with the Alliance, should we manage to take it."

Navarrone was actually wrong on the alcohol consumption statistic. Tsar Xavier had not downed one drop of booze yet. Yet, of course, being the operative word, but, being a god, it wouldn't affect him.

"We would be perfectly willing to study and adapt certain Aumanii designs in order to remain operable with Hermes and keep our own methods. We also agree with Navarrone in regards to training exercises, although we would only agree to the officer exchanges under the conditions that the host government would have total control over what the visiting officers saw, and where they went."

'I vote in favour of the amendment.' said Navarrone, almost like an automaton. 'I believe we've gone through the agenda and there seems to be no more issues to discuss. Unless any of you have anything to add, I think we should officially end the session and just get shittered.' said Navarrone, casting a glance to the delegate from Outer Heaven, who had passed out a few minutes before.

"A fine suggestion, Sheikh." stated the Shanderan king. And with a total of six votes for, one vote against, and one vote... Abstained, the amendment passes with a three quarters margin. I now declare the council meeting over. The bar, however, will remain open."

Xavier, not particularly satisfied with the overall endpoint of the meeting, but not really that against it, put his mask back on hood up, and left the room without much pomp or circumstance. As much as he would have enjoyed some booze, he had better stuff back at Derscon, and several other important matters to attend to.

The Imperial Heir got up from the table, a bit dizzy from the moonshine. He stumbled out into the hallway without much as an acknowledgment that he was leaving, and proceeded to find his way back to his hotel room before he would return back to New Haven for his coronation.