NationStates Jolt Archive

We look forward to meeting with all parties of the Xirnium situation. Those who do not attend will be severely punished should you continue your attempt to enslave the people of Xirnium and take their land!

Kahanistan President Mohammed bin Yusuf al-Za'if and General Feodor S. Kalazanov entered the negotiation chamber. Kalazanov sat next to the President and boldly stated his demands.

"First," said the General, "we demand that our prisoners be returned to us alive and unharmed. Secondly, we demand that any forced conversion to the pigshit religion of Xirnium imposed on any of the captives be dissolved by a Xirniumite cleric of appropriate authority. This would only apply if any forced conversions did indeed take place. Thirdly, we demand that slavery and mass genocide be abolished in Xirnium."

The President stared at the General in shock. He had just insulted the Xirniumite God-Emperor's religion, followed, to his knowledge, by every Xirniumite they had met.

President al-Za'if spoke up. "General, try to tone down your rhetoric. We are at a diplomatic mission here." Then, to the ViZion representative, he said, "We will, of course, have to have the prisoners brought in. There should be a maximum of 103 of them, so it would not crowd the halls. We must know our troops are alive before we begin to seriously negotiate a peace with Xirnium."

Jack Olson, a ViZionarian delegate, looked around with a confused expression on his face after listening to the Kahanistanian.

"Umm... unless I'm blind, I believe we are still waiting on the others to yet arrive. As per the slaughter and enslavement issues, that has been settled, as ViZion and Yallak have been able to convince the Xirnium God-Emperor to cease those actions for good in exchange for the protection of that nation, the people, and the land of Xirnium."

Håkan Lind, the representative for the Incorporated states of Befuzinia, arrives with an small entourage of bloodthirsty lawyers and public relation specialist: all dressed in the red and white uniforms.

"Mr Olson, Is it really that necessary to discuss Xirnium domestic policy at these peace talks? The real issue is that of a…impulsive... and certainly unwanted violation of Xirnium sovereignty by certain…rouge states”

The Grand Admiral of the Kraven Operation of this Area stormed into the room...

"I Demand answers!" he Roared, he was being followed by 8 massive Sardaukar phase 4's, their lazer target designators scanning the people in the room and assessing the situation for possible hostiles...

"There attacks on us were without Warning, We had Negotiated Peace with them, This Nuclear Attack was a Blatant declaration of War... The High Command Demands that the Leader of Xirnium Stands down and Faces War Crime Charges, Our Two Nations had an Agreement!" The Admiral was furious...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v399/HorusGodEmperor/Phase4s.jpg

Jack Olson stood up and walked up to Kraven's Grand Admiral. "Tell your troops to put their weapons down. That will not be tolerated in here. If they do not, they will be forced to exit the building. We are here to work on peace, not starting a fight."

"I am Not Here To Start a Fight" The Admiral spoke, still furious but starting to calm down...

"Stand down..." The Admiral said quietly waving to the Sardaukar, the Cyborg Troopers lowered their weapons slightly... their Lazer Target Desigators Deactivated...

"Now... Answers... We Were Attacked... We Negotiated Peace.. They Attacked us!... We Demand Retribution..."

"We are still awaiting Xirnium's arrival. They are expected to be arriving shortly. And I thank you for standing down your weapons. No need for that." He glanced upwards and gave a slight "O.K." nod.

"But, what we can do here is figure out what our process for peace will be. They have already agreed to cease all enslavements and slaughter - which is why this entire war began. That's half the battle right there."

The Admiral sat down...

"It started during the Proliferation (sp?) campaign in exchange for Human Resources, something which the Corporation uses extensivly in its Mining Complexes, and Other "Programes", We bartered a Deal for the exchange of weapons, began the shipment and at the last minute was told that our Quota could not be filled and the Deal was over" The Admiral stopped, Adjusted his officers cap, scratching his head and replacing it before continueing...

"Naturally The High Command was very unhappy with this outcome, and decided that mass mobilisation was the only futher course of action, Assisting also, our long Standing Allie... Concremo..."

"However, The High Command decided that aquiring a plot of land to Construct a massive Chemical facility, would be a better course of action, and we bartered a deal with Xirnium for an area of land 10 miles by 10 miles, The Nation agreed and we Ceased all further hostile actions against them..."

"Forces entered to secure the area, and Construction teams entered, and as you can guess, Construction began..."

"However, Xirnium Launched a Nuclear attack at the Construction site without warning, 2000 Sardaukar Phase 4's going up in a Nuclear Mushroom is quite expensive, and Now We demand Compensation... or at least The Head of Xirnium... These are the Demands of the High Command... Justice must be Done...."

We are most proud to announce that we've used half our nuclear arsenal to wipe Xirnium off this universe. The missiles will arrive in two hours or so. Thank you for your attention.

Jack was pleased that the Admiral had calmed down enough to talk more freely without the demanding voice he had when he entered. He sat down next to the Admiral since the meeting would not officially start until Xirnium arrived.

"And for that, they should definately compensate you for. I am sure they would be more will to do that then face more attacks.

"But, from the other end, I must admit that Kraven did over-react. Would you have rather have been ripped off, recieving only part of it, or would you rather them have cancelled it all together, as they did, because they could not fill your request?"

We are most proud to announce that we've used half our nuclear arsenal to wipe Xirnium off this universe. The missiles will arrive in two hours or so. Thank you for your attention.
*aims ignore cannon at Tanidaria and fires*

*IGNORED* - for blantant godmod.

Jack was pleased that the Admiral had calmed down enough to talk more freely without the demanding voice he had when he entered. He sat down next to the Admiral since the meeting would not officially start until Xirnium arrived.

"And for that, they should definately compensate you for. I am sure they would be more will to do that then face more attacks.

"But, from the other end, I must admit that Kraven did over-react. Would you have rather have been ripped off, recieving only part of it, or would you rather them have cancelled it all together, as they did, because they could not fill your request?"


"We may have Over reacted yes, But its the Whim of the High Command that dictates what the Corporation does... I was just following Orders..."

"The High Commanded Stated that, if they Couldn't get the Resources they needed through a peacefull exchange, then they would Invade, Capture and then Farm Xirnium for all of its Human Resources... The Nuclear attack on the Construction site was like throwing a Firecracker into a Hornets Nest... Oh and by the way... The High Command are Maintaining their 12 hour Deadline, its out of my hands now... Either We Come to some Agreement within the deadline or the High Command will continue its Mobilisation"

The Admiral looked at Jack with a cold empty expression that faintly hid the Sorrow that whelled up in the Admirals eyes...

Jack sighed. He knew ViZion would be involved in the defense of Xirnium. And if this went nuclear, he knew ViZion would be more than willing to use nuclear weapons as well - they were ready to use it on Generia. They certainly would be willing to use it on a nation that could hardly be considered a nuclear anything, let alone nuclear power, compared to ViZion.

"Well, Xirnium will be attending here, and I do hope they are willing to negotiate some more. I certainly hope this does not go into a war, especially if someone uses nuclear weapons against Xirnium, ViZion, or any other allied forces in this conflict. Trust me, ViZion would be the first to retaliate. I just don't want to see that happen."

Lord Grand Cardinal Equixlin responded to Kraven Corporation's charges, talking loadly as he briskly entered the chamber followed by 20 of his most well armed and well trained troops, the Zealots:

"The Lord God-Emperor, most beneficient and sacred, reminds Kraven Corportation that He had unilaterally declared that your lease had expired, therefore the Almighty was well within His legal right to completely obliterate your foul filth stationed near lake Zirtyme from the very face of this Earth!

We make no apology at all for our actions and declare on behalf of our most gracious Lord God-Emperor, Quikzos IV, that He gives you one last chance to repent for your grievous sins or face the wrath of your Lord!"

[OCC: Nice opening remark huh? I'll respond more later, need to go now]

As the general approached the doors to the negotiation chamber, the noise inside was a clear indicator that things had not begun too well.
He pushed the doors aside and entered, flanked by two Imperial Assault Infantry. Waving his hand to the side, he sent his guards to go a stand at the wall behind him, then he sat down quietly next to the ViZion diplomat.

Kahanistan President Mohammed bin Yusuf al-Za'if and General Feodor S. Kalazanov entered the negotiation chamber. Kalazanov sat next to the President and boldly stated his demands.

"First," said the General, "we demand that our prisoners be returned to us alive and unharmed. Secondly, we demand that any forced conversion to the pigshit religion of Xirnium imposed on any of the captives be dissolved by a Xirniumite cleric of appropriate authority. This would only apply if any forced conversions did indeed take place. Thirdly, we demand that slavery and mass genocide be abolished in Xirnium."

The President stared at the General in shock. He had just insulted the Xirniumite God-Emperor's religion, followed, to his knowledge, by every Xirniumite they had met.



The Grand Cardinal, not finished with his remarks, turned to face the Kahanistanian delegates, his orantely decorated red and gold robes billowing slightly.

He laughed harshly and cruelly, "You need not concern yourselves over your mercenaries, they will be returned to you unharmed.

Regarding your second... request, of making null and void the declarations of faith of those prisoners to the devinity of terrible God-Emperor, we scoff at and reject utterly such as blasphemous demand. To do so would incur the wrath of our God and damns you to the icy fires of hell for eternity.

Concerning your last point, that is absolutely none of your concern and is a matter between the God-Emperor and the Yallak Empire of which we are now a dependancy.

For our part the most merciful and vengeful God-Emperor, Quikzos IV, demands compensation from you for the damage that you have done to the Xirniumite military. If you do so our Lord may just spare you unending torment."

Jack stood up, and made his way infront of everyone. He quickly put his hand up in a "stop" sign. Then he began to speak.

"We are here not to cause any trouble, but to find a solution to peace before war is the only option. Firstly, I would like to thank everyone here in attendance for being willing to negotiate and stop all the hostility.

"Now, Xirnium - you stated that it would bring the wrath of your God onto Kahanistan if you allowed his people to leave his faith. So be it, it is their choice. If they wish it upon them selves, let them suffer that consequence.

"We also ask that all nations currently heading towards Xirnium or any other nation that is viewed hostile, or those already at their hostile target location, to exit that country and enter into international waters. This will make these peace talks move much easier, as there will then be more trust.

"To the nation of Kraven, we ask you to reconsider your promise of an attack should no deal be met in 12 hours. Should there be an attack upon Xirnium, it would harm the ViZionarian Peace Keepers there. Should they be harmed, it will be viewed as an attack on ViZion, in which case you will be swiftly delt with to the highest of degrees, as any attack on ViZion would.

"Simply put, Xirnium has agreed to cease their slaughter and enslavement, which is why many nations are in this war. That deal is done with. Kraven and Xirnium's issues should be settled in a more diplomatic manner - both nations have made very noticable mistakes. Kraven over-reacted over the cancelling of the deal, and Xirnium attacked leased land. That puts your nations on an even keel - one major mistake each. So, instead of over-reacting to eachother and causing more damage to your own nation, as well as others, you should begin working on putting this behind you. Your nations can help eachother, or go your seperate ways. But don't keep one-upping the other on major mistakes, or there will be none of either of your nations left soon enough."

After making his speach, he made his way to his chair and sat down, waiting to hear what others had to say.

and Xirnium attacked leased land.

"Xirnium did not attack anything," the Grand Cardinal said, his voice rising, "the God-Emperor, bless his sacred name, simply extinguished the Kraven Corporation's lease over the land. Then we merely cleaned out the filth...."

General Kalazanov stood up in outrage. Was this guy serious? Did he really expect us to pay reparations when he was guilty of such atrocities? He reached for his disruptor, hoping to blow this lout to the four corners of Hell. Only when his hand touched an empty holster did he realize that he had left his weapon on the ship to prevent him from doing just that.

President al-Zaif grabbed him and seated him forcefully. "General, maybe he has a point." The General looked at him as if he had said that he were an alien. The President continued. "Our soldiers did overreact to the border patrols, and that started this whole skirmish. Furthermore, Colonel Levitt will be court-martialed for her actions. But she will stand trial in Kahanistan, where we treat people fairly in court." He nodded to the Xirnium delegate. "We will make reparations to our fullest abilities. We will need to know what you lost in the war to our forces, and need an estimate of reparation costs."

The Grand Cardinal waved his hand dismissively, "The details of the war reparations are not overly important, they can be determined later. What is important is that you have been able to see reason, and that pleases us greatly.

"We are also glad that you will put to trial the war-criminal Levitt, although we would have prefered it to occur in a Xirnium ecclesiastical court. That said, we are willing to compromise. A Kahnistanian court will sufice." The Grand Cardinal smiled, this time not a cruel smile but one with more warmth.

“One issue that hasn’t been discussed here are the practical aspects of maintaining peace in Xirnium while these peace talks are taking place. What I’m referring to is the subject of peace keeping forces to ensure and deter continued aggression by anyone…” the ISB delegate glared mischievously at General Kalazanov before continuing his speech.

“The ISB therefore wishes to extend its services to this end; since the ISB already has personnel in Xirnium already in the process of distributing… humanitarian aid… the ISB feels that it would be best suited for this mission. I would also like to point out that the ISB has been neutral in this conflict and only acted in the best interest of the Xirnium civilian population. Should our proposal be acceptable to the Xirnium state, and other involved nations, the ISB would be honoured to begin full-scale humanitarian and peacekeeping missions...”

The Admiral... was starting to get angry again...

He thumped the desk with his fist rising out of his seat.. immeadiatly the Sardaukar Phase 4's Raised their Pulse Carbines and Lazer Target Designators began scanning The People in the room...

"The God Emperor is Blinded by his own Self Importance... There is No God... There is No Heaven or Hell... The only thing that stands today is Force of Arms... The Deadline Still Stands... you have 6 hours left to Meet our Demands..." Turning to the ViZion ambassador....

"The Attack will be Conventional... Corporate forces are under orders NOT to engage Your nations Forces..."

The Admiral bared his teeth as he lowered himself back into the seat..

His hand firmly against his holster, which Unlike Kahnistan... Was not empty...

Jack listened to the buzz in his hear piece. He mumbled something under his breath. He then walked over to the Xirnium diplomat and pulled him aside. Jack then spoke low enough for just the Xirnium to hear him.

"I have been instructed to ask that ViZion help evacuate your civilians, or place them under temporary ViZionarian custody for their protection, as my superiors are worried about their safety. Will you allow this?"

He then glanced back at the Kraven Admiral, glancing at his holster. Glancing up, he gave just a slight nod, as if to say "Be ready..." While their were no ViZionarian guards visible in the room, there were over 150 well-armed guards outside the walls of this room, as well as above the room, ready to crash the party should anything go wrong.

"These Are not Peace Talks!" the Admiral Bellowed, once again rising to his feet...

"This is More Cloak and Dagger work of Spies and Assassins!... If you have Anything to say... Ambassador... Perhaps you should Let the Floor hear it too!... Or are you mearly working this for the best interests of Xirnium.... "


The Admiral leaned into the desk, placing to clenched fists against the wooden surface... his eyes obscured by the Jet black peak of his Admiral's Hat...

"Just a moment..." he said to the Xirnium delegate.

He walked over to the Admiral, and whispered, "Tell me... now that I'm whispering, should Xirnium freak out and tell me I'm favoring you, too?" He stopped, backed away, and looked at the Admiral his a stone face. "Listen, Admiral. I am not playing favorite. My goal here is to stop this war from happening and preserving the life of innocent civilians in each and every country here. I presume you are here for the same reason - keep this war from happening.

"Let me ask all of you this... how many of you are willing to cooperate with everyone, and play give-and-take with other nations to assure that people will prevail and your civilians are kept safe from this needless bloodshed?"

"Just a moment..." he said to the Xirnium delegate.

He walked over to the Admiral, and whispered, "Tell me... now that I'm whispering, should Xirnium freak out and tell me I'm favoring you, too?" He stopped, backed away, and looked at the Admiral his a stone face. "Listen, Admiral. I am not playing favorite. My goal here is to stop this war from happening and preserving the life of innocent civilians in each and every country here. I presume you are here for the same reason - keep this war from happening.

"Let me ask all of you this... how many of you are willing to cooperate with everyone, and play give-and-take with other nations to assure that people will prevail and your civilians are kept safe from this needless bloodshed?"

OOC: Nice..

IC:

"Very well... Let me hear what you have to say..."

The admiral waved a stand down order to the Sardaukar and they lowered their weapons once more... Lazer target designators deactivating....

Jack was glad he had gotten Kraven to stop his non-sense.

He called over the Xirnium delegate. When he made his way over, Jack made a suggestion;
"Alright, so, here's my idea. You guys can work from here... Firstly, Xirnium, you are to clean up the area, and return it over to Kraven Corporation - this time, not on a lease, but rather officially handed over. You are to also pay for damages to the families who lost someone in your attack.

"On the other hand... Kraven, you are to agree not to attack Xirnium from this point forward unless Xirnium becomes an aggressor against your nation or an allied nation. You are are to help in the reconstruction of Xirnium - if Xirnium accepts your help. If you would rather help pay, you would be required to pay $1 trillion for the reconstruction efforts. And for both of you... you are never to make another deal with the other."

He then turned to face all of the delegates, and offered this;
"All nations who had begun engagement with Xirnium forces, you would be required to aid in the reconstruction efforts of Xirnium. In exchange, Xirnium would be required to offer payments to all families who lost someone in this war. He would also be required to turn over all POW's unharmed, and allow them to revert back to their previous region, if any religion at all - that is, if they wish to do so.

"This is your starting point to work with."

He then walked over to his seat and sat down, took a deep breath, and drank a full cup of water before refilling it.

OOC: thanks :)

Caracas gave a slight ‘well done’ nod to before he stood, Ridiculous, The Kraven Corporation shouldn’t see an inch of land in Xirnium.
The General began to speak, his voice passive and unrevealing of his true thoughts on the matter.

“A well thought plan, though I see no need for Xirnium to pay reparations to the nations who lost citizens by invading Quikzos IV land. Their payment was the fact that they survived the foolhardy mistake.”

He tuned toward the Befuzinian representative.

“While your offer is kind… and no doubt for some finacial gain in the further selling of your products…it is not logical in the current situation. To introduce more foreign soldiers into Xirnium at this point could only increase tensions. Xirnium troops and others currently present will suffice as peacekeepers.”

Caracas made to sit down but stopped. He rose again to his full height. He looked directly at the Kraven Admiral.

“You are aware that Yallak is now the proprietor of Xirnium, therefore if you reclaim the land in their borders it will now be subject to the full extent of Imperial law.”

Jack turned to Caracas and spoke,
"While I can see where you are coming from, both nations did overeact to one another, and given the situation, there will be to be some giving on both ends of the stick to ensure that peace can be made. In Xirnium's case, nuclear strike on that land was well beyond what should have happened. Thus, Xirnium, like Kraven, should offer some sort of retrobusion. If something else can be thought up and accepted by both sides, then so be it.

"What I offered was a starting point. Rather that changes and peace is still made, or is stays as-is and peace is made is fine. What I am interested in is getting things on a roll very quickly."

President Al-Za'if cleared his throat and said, "I am perfectly agreeable to this arrangement. We will aid in the reconstruction efforts, and once our soldiers are released and de-converted, we will sign a peace treaty."

"As for Kraven," he added, "we would be willing to allow Kraven to lease a 10x10 mile plot of land on our western canal if they can't get Xirnium to negotiate for leasing land. Kahanistan is a bit more socialist than most of its allies, but is not subject to imperial laws of any sort."

General Kalazanov looked at al-Za'if as if he wanted to sell the Great Ark of Kahanistan. He then caught a glimpse of the Kraven Admiral out of the corner of his eye. He wasn't going to say anything more inflammatory.

Jack was able to relax seeing that two nations have either mostly or completely agreed with his suggestion,

"Kahanistan, I thank your nation for its willingness you allow Kraven some land, should Xirnium be completely unwilling to do such an arrangement and Kraven be willing to build on your land.

"I also thank you for your willingness to help aid in Xirnium's reconstruction efforts. This is the beginning of the road to peace right here.

"And to everyone, feel free to offer your own suggestions should you not fully agree with my terms. It's a setup to help these talks get moving."

Jack turned to Caracas and spoke,
"While I can see where you are coming from, both nations did overeact to one another, and given the situation, there will be to be some giving on both ends of the stick to ensure that peace can be made. In Xirnium's case, nuclear strike on that land was well beyond what should have happened. Thus, Xirnium, like Kraven, should offer some sort of retrobusion. If something else can be thought up and accepted by both sides, then so be it.

"What I offered was a starting point. Rather that changes and peace is still made, or is stays as-is and peace is made is fine. What I am interested in is getting things on a roll very quickly."

The general sat back in his chair, well expecting what was to come from the Admiral's mouth once he had made his reply.

"Then we are in agreement, as long as Kraven understands and adheres to our terms.”

Jack looked towards the delegates from Xirnium and Kraven. It seems like others are willing to accept, and it rests on their shoulders now.

Caracas gave a slight ‘well done’ nod to before he stood, Ridiculous, The Kraven Corporation shouldn’t see an inch of land in Xirnium.
The General began to speak, his voice passive and unrevealing of his true thoughts on the matter.

“A well thought plan, though I see no need for Xirnium to pay reparations to the nations who lost citizens by invading Quikzos IV land. Their payment was the fact that they survived the foolhardy mistake.”

He tuned toward the Befuzinian representative.

“While your offer is kind… and no doubt for some finacial gain in the further selling of your products…it is not logical in the current situation. To introduce more foreign soldiers into Xirnium at this point could only increase tensions. Xirnium troops and others currently present will suffice as peacekeepers.”

Caracas made to sit down but stopped. He rose again to his full height. He looked directly at the Kraven Admiral.

“You are aware that Yallak is now the proprietor of Xirnium, therefore if you reclaim the land in their borders it will now be subject to the full extent of Imperial law.”


"I have to Object... " The Admiral Spoke, now a lot calmer things were going more his way...

"If the Corporation were to reclaim the lands, You would no Longer have Any jurisdiction in that Zone... Elements of the 12th Panzergrenadier Sardaukar force would be Garrisoned their to ensure that our Investments are "Looked After" and any attempt to interfere with KCI developments will not be taken lightly..."

"As for Kahnistan, we would be willing to accept your dealing regardless of the Situation, another Chemical Plant would be most benefical to the Corporation... If we can come to some sort of Agreement, I'm sure both of our Nations would prosper..."

"As for Repayments, for the Reconstruction of Xirnium, The Corporation will not pay anything, We did not Attack, nor cause any damage, anything that was done to the Nation was done so by their leader, and there is no Point in Xirnium paying money to the Relatives of the Sardaukar stationed their, These troopers are Not Human any longer... They are Clones created in Vast Factories, or Mobile Harvesters if you would... The Only cost Xirnium should pay is to the Corporation, Sardaukar Phase 4's take a long time to Construct and are Highly Expensive... Alternativly as a Gesture of peace... Xirnium could Donate 100,000 HR's as a Tribute..." the admiral took a sip of water then leaned back into his chair.. eyes still obscured by the peak of his cap..

The Sardaukar phase 4's had remained still and unmoving since their order to stand down...

Jack stood up and began to speak primarily to the Admiral, but spoke also to everyone else;

"If Kraven Corporation does not feel it needs to aid in any reconstruction efforts, than Xirnium likely will not offer any sort of payment to the Corporation. If that is fine with Kraven Corporation, then so be it.

"However, I urge Kraven to be more willing to give in exchange to gain in other areas. Get things settled, let peace come in. End this thing."

OOC: Xirnium and Kraven... gotta question for ya... what are some of the names of your higher-up officials in your government? You'll see the relevance of this question in the RP in a bit...

OOC: Xirnium and Kraven... gotta question for ya... what are some of the names of your higher-up officials in your government? You'll see the relevance of this question in the RP in a bit...

OOC: The only offical in The High Command that has a name is the Minister for Civil Affairs Sean Victor, he controls Propaganda and other Controll methods, the High Command doesn't have any named officals, because it removes the humanity of the High Command and makes appear as an all seeing machine of the Corporation...

He tuned toward the Befuzinian representative.

“While your offer is kind… and no doubt for some finacial gain in the further selling of your products…it is not logical in the current situation. To introduce more foreign soldiers into Xirnium at this point could only increase tensions. Xirnium troops and others currently present will suffice as peacekeepers.”


"Then the ISB has no reason whatsoever to remain here at these so-called peace talks. The ISB will continue operations in Xirnium for as long the agreement with the God-Emperor are in effect…” and with that said the ISB delegate leaves.

The Grand Cardinal looked affronted, more disgusted by the ViZion proposal then the Kraven Corporation's blasphemy. His Zealots tensed, at the slighest hint from the Grand Cardinal they would open fire.

"This is completely absurd. Under no situation will Xirnium give any land to the foul Kraven Corporation. If anything their filthy race should provide us with compensation for the foul stench their people left in the area, a stench that not even a nuclear device could eradicate.

Let me make this absolutely clear. There will be no concessions made by Xirnium to Kraven Corp. at all. Their claims have no basis, none at all. We don't make concessions with beligerent imperialistic powers.

We remind everyone here that Xirnium is now part of the Yallak Imperium. So here is our offer," he stared right at the Admiral as his 20 or so heavily armed Zealot troops raised their GPMGs at the Kraven delegation and their guards, relishing the fact that they might finally be able to kill these foul heretics, "get the hell out of my sight before I wipe every last one of you out."

His high power pistol drawn, the Grand Cardinal waited.

The structure of the Xirnium state is entirely ecclesiatical, like some massive overbloated church. These are the highest levels of the hierachy:

The God-Emperor Lord Quikzos IV [OCC: may or may not exist, may or may not be one person]

The 12 High Lords of Xirnium:
Lord High Grand Cardinal Equixlin
Lord High Grand Cardinal Nidor
Lord High Grand Cardinal Jitax
Lord High Grand Cardinal Vernium
Lord High Grand Cardinal Wallach
Lord High Grand Cardinal Iridium
Lord High Grand Cardinal Petrac
Lord High Grand Cardinal Uolin
Lord High Grand Cardinal Erthaq
Lord High Grand Cardinal Nitroix
Lord High Grand Cardinal Bendtier
Lord High Grand Cardinal Kalisno

The 4 Grand Inquisitors:
Lord High Grand Inquisitor Verdant
Lord High Grand Inquisitor Limbar
Lord High Grand Inquisitor Textar
Lord High Grand Inquisitor Dragos

Jack turned around once again, this time glarring directly into the Xirnium's Grand Cardinal's eyes with a cold stare.

He kept his eyes fixed with the cold look, slowing seeming to drain of any life, on the Grand Cardinal's eyes, and he began to march forward towards him. "Put that weapon down, now. You do not want to see what will happen should you fire that. ViZionarian forces in Xirnium can, and WILL turn on your nation and completely destroy it. Put that weapon down, NOW!" he demanded.

ViZionarian guards quickly reacted, having their targets - every single delegate - ready to be shot down should anything go wrong.

Instantly, the General watching this situation sent out a warning to all ViZionarian forces to prepare to demolish Xirnium's forces and let in all invading forces on his command - which would come should the Grand Cardinal not obey and put his gun away.

"You shoot me, fine. I'm expendable. However, your whole nation lies in the balance here. If you do not put down that weapon immediately, ViZion will have no choice but to completely level your nation to nothing rivers and lakes of blood, mountains of debris, gardens of dust, and roads of glass. Your nation will become nothing but some small nation almost no one has heard of in the history books - if you ever have enough luck to make it there.

"And do you honestly think you'll get ANY fame out of this what so ever? After all, ViZion has been in countless wars, much of which, I must add, would actually pose some sort of threat. Your nation wouldn't even justify as a footnote. Thus, you would be a noone in history."

At this point, he was only about two feet from the Grand Cardinal. This entire time he had maintained his cold, lifeless, heartless gaze into the Grand Cardinal's eyes.

General Caracas again rose from his seat. He showed little sign of emotion; after all he had led his legion in war many times from the frontline so a diplomatic scuffle was nothing worse.
The Imperial soldiers had of course readied their weapons at the first sign of hostilities. Caracas gave them a downward wave of his hand and they immediately stood down their rifles.

“Grand Cardinal Equixlin”, the General began with the slightest hint of an order present in his speech, born from the many years of service in the Army and Yallakian political system, “weapons are not needed here. We were invited here by the noble people of ViZion to talk. Do not so lightly disrespect our hosts. The time and place in which the Kraven Corporation falls is not now or here”.

The Grand Cardinal was furious, his face twisted with hate, he was tensed and ready to give the order to fire, his trigger finger twitched..

With the slightest flick of his wrist the Grand Cardinal's troops lowered their weapons.

The Grand Cardinal spat on the floor, disgusted with the proceedings. "These "peace talks" are a sham and have been biased from the begining. We will not be made to negotiate with imperialist powers like Kraven who never had any claim on us to begin with. Now, I have been more than generous. I have agreed to make changes to Xirnium domestic policy, to not use nukes as an internal policing tool or sell slaves for products, despite the fact that it has absolutely nothing to do with you all," at this he stared at the ViZionians and Kahanistanians.

"But as for your other extortionist demands, bah!" the Grand Cardinal laughed a harsh, cruel laugh without any trace of mirth, "We reject them utterly! Pay compensation for those nations who waged unprovoked wars on Xirnium soil? Ridiuculous! Pay compensation for annihlating a Kraven facility that they never had the right to build in the fist place? Rubbish! The prisoners shall be returned to Kahanistan unhurt and that is more than enough. These talks are over. Remove your heathen scum from our soil or face the consequences."

And with that the Grand Cardinal turned and stormed out, his troops following.

Jack let out a deep sigh of relief. That was close... waaaay to close... he thought. Luckily, it ended peacefully, as the Grand Cardnal had the guns put away.

However, not all ended well. Xirnium did march out on the peace talks, and he was, quite frankly, suprised Kraven did not as well the way the two reacted.

"Well, gentlemen. It looks as if the peace talks have come to a grinding halt. I highly doubt we will be able to get Xirnium back in here.

"However, I would like to make one final request to your nations before we ajourn. Those nations who were in this war due to the slaughter and enslavement should not need fight this war. They have agreed to stop those actions.

"And now, I call this peace meeting to its end. Xirnium has walked out, thus there is no more need to continue these talks." he finished up, and stood, motioning for the door. He also glanced at General Caracas with a small sign of discust over what had happened, clearly not happy about it. Jack would wait until everyone else exited before he, himself, would leave the room.

The General still standing after the Grand Cardinal had exited, if that was a reasonable way to describe it, had finally broken his neutral unemotional expression. Though the abrupt ending of the meeting was expected the glare from the ViZion diplomat caught him completely off guard – after all the Empire was only responsible for the protection and development of Xirnium, nothing more unless they asked for it.

Caracas gave a nod of apology towards Jack then headed for the exit. His Guards slung their rifles over their shoulders and followed.

Jack sighed again. He was not happen about anything here except that there had been no one killed.

The Admiral, nodded to himself...

"Then there is only one logical course of action.... Full mobilisation..."

"We were prepared to compromise, prepared to relax a little... but we have been met by the blind sight of Religion.... There is no further room for negotiation"

the Admiral stood up, and got ready to leave...

Imperial Palace, Arrandin, Yallak

For the second time this week the High Council chambers were refurnished to make it a proper place for diplomatic talks. It was only a few days before that Green Sun, Psy-Pso and Dwaledelfia prime had departed.

General Caracas was discussing the coming negotiations with Emperor Balor as they made their way towards the room.

“Jack was his name. No doubt he will be reluctant to come after what happened between them last time, but I believe its best – no one knows what happened better than him and if we can convince him to resume friendly relations with Xirnium then it will worth the effort.”
“I trust you know what your doing.”
“As always. They will be here shortly.”
“And you’ve asked that no Guards be present?”
“At least not in the room.”
“So be it.”

Lord High Grand Cardinal Nidor had arrived in Arrandin, capital of the Yallak Imperium. He had an important mission to attend to, and he did not have much time to enjoy the beautiful view.

Looking through the dossier he grimaced at the official title he would have to use to address the Emperor.

The God-Emperor is insane, he thought to himself, He'll get his just dessert soon enough though. The world can never know that there is a growing internal dissent to Xirnium's "deity", at least amongst the highest levels of the aristocracy, but one day they will. While the nation is at war and most of the common people do not question the divinity of their lord we must bide our time. But one day, when the time is right, when the God-Emperor least expects it, the aristocracy will punish him for his crimes against Holy Zirnium, regardless of the petty superstitions of the populous who worship him..

"Yes sir, are you lost?" the question by the immaculately dressed Imperial guard broke the Grand Cardinal's reverie.

"Ahh, yes. On behalf of His Lord God-Emperor Quikzos IV, most terrible and merciful," there was only the slightest hint of disgust at the God-Emperor's title in his voice, "I, Lord High Grand Cardinal Nidor, request an audience with..." he felt visibly sick at having to use the title, "the Holy Saint Emperor Balor the Wise of the Yallak Imperium."

The Guard looked just as surprised by how the Grand Cardinal had spoken of the Emperor as the Cardinal himself looked adverse to saying it.

“This way, the Emperor is expecting you”

As the Guard led Nidor through the palace and up to where the Emperor and the General waited he looked across at the Grand Cardinal and began to talk.

“Do not worry – the Empire, let alone the Emperor himself are quite casual when it comes to internal formalities.” His voice had a hint of amusement about the Cardinal discomfort at using the title of Saint. “Lord Balor will suffice if you prefer.”

The Grand Cardinal's discomfort only seemed to increase, "If the God-Emperor, most beneficient and gracious, has declared your Lord and Emperor a Saint, then he must be a Saint. A living God can't be wrong."

The soldier did not seem very convinced by the Cardinal's sincerity in this, but didn't want to get the Grand Cardinal into any trouble.

The Guard nodded and indicated to a large set of double doors, with a Giant Golden Dragon seal covering a large portion of the space.

"This way"

He pulled the doors open and let the Cardinal enter.

'Greetings, most noble and gracious ally, I am Lord High Grand Cardinal Nidor! I come to pledge homage to you, Saint Emperor Balor, sovereign of the Yallak Imperium and, on behalf of the God-Emperor let me thank your most wise sir for arranging for this international dialogue, so that we may mend our relationship with ViZion.

As you well know, the true enemy is the filthy Kraven Corporation. It makes no sense to bicker amongst ourselves when even now they plot Xirnium's downfall. We are confident that these talks will yield a result that shall benefit all of us," the Grand Cardinal said.

The Emperor stood as the Cardinal spoke.

"Welcome Grand Cardinal Nidor. I am glad you come with such friendly confidence towards repairing your relations with ViZion."

Balor motioned towards one of the empty black high backed chairs positioned around the table.

"Please sit, the ViZion representative will be here shortly."

He hesitated for a moment then continued,

"With respect, your predecessor did not fair so well in his talks with ViZion, so I ask that you maintain reason in these talks regardless of the history between your nations. Xirnium’s future and the lives of many people rest on this meeting.”

OOC: I’m going to have to go now. We’ll continue tomorrow. Cya

"I come with an open-mind and an empty holster my Lord Emperor," he held out both hands wide open, "that is all I can guarrantee. I wont deny there are serious issues that need to be addressed here."

[OCC: Very well, bye]

The ViZionarian plane finally touched down in Yallak, and out stepped Jack and two guards.

He wasn't pleased that he had to meet with Xirnium again, but he had been pressured into it. He was here alas, and hoped this went quickly, and without incident.

He quickly made his way into the building to find the room, followed two steps behind by the two guards.

"I come with an open-mind and an empty holster my Lord Emperor," he held out both hands wide open, "that is all I can guarrantee. I wont deny there are serious issues that need to be addressed here."

“That is all I ask”, said Balor

Just then the doors opened again and the ViZion representative entered. General Caracas rose to greet Jack as arrived.

“Well there is no point in delaying – we all know why where here.”

Caracas turned to Jack, offering him one of the empty high backed chairs,

“Our communications relays that were listening to the debate between Xirnium and ViZion recorded this statement?”

If you solve this problem that was risen between our nations, then we just may defend your nation once again. We have forgiven your nation for the situation with your Grand Cardinal.

“What do you propose, or how may Xirnium heal the gap that was created?”

“That is all I ask”, said Balor

Just then the doors opened again and the ViZion representative entered. General Caracas rose to greet Jack as arrived.

“Well there is no point in delaying – we all know why where here.”

Caracas turned to Jack, offering him one of the empty high backed chairs,

“Our communications relays that were listening to the debate between Xirnium and ViZion recorded this statement?”

“What do you propose, or how may Xirnium heal the gap that was created?”
"Thank you," Jack said. But he stopped after hearing the recorded message, and turned around,
"Look, let me put this right out on the table right now. I am not pleased to be here. However, I have come since my country wished me to.

"I still have a problem with what happened in the last meeting with Xirnium. However, I know that is not the issue here, as Xirnium has delt with the Grand Cardinal who attended that meeting.

"Basically, what we are looking for from Xirnium is an apology for what they have said about ViZion, as well as a promise not to do such a think in the future. We also ask that, should another peace talk arrise with those who are attempting to invade, that Xirnium do what it can to ensure peace.

"Finally, one last thing. ViZion requests the right to build a ViZionarian naval and army base along Xirnium coastline.

"If all that is done, ViZion is willing to send in forces to defend your nation."

The Grand Cardinal's face was impassive, betraying none of his own opinions.

"I have been directed to request a full explanation from ViZion regarding the missile bombardment of our coastal cities which resulted in the deaths of countless innocent civilians. We have RADAR images which prove ships that were part of the ViZion blockade fleet did this.

"I am also directed to request that ViZion publically condemns the foul Kraven Corporation and all of their slave allies, including the filthy Concermo.

"Regarding ViZion's demands, the Ecclesiarchy is certainly willing to consider an apology to the ViZion government. We are also, of course, always willing to engage in dialogue for peace with any party, save the disgusting Kraven scum and their sycophantic servant nations whom we shall never agree to see. Finally, the issue of a military base on Xirnium is unacceptable, considering the poor nature of relations between our two nations at present."

The Grand Cardinal leaned back in his high-backed chair, scanning the ViZion delegate's face intently for his reaction to this offer.

Jack walked over to his seat and sat down while the Xirnium delegate spoke.

Once the Xirnium Grand Cardinal finished, Jack leaned forward against the table in front of him and began his own response;
"You may have RADAR images of missiles coming from the area of our blockade. However, as you have already been told, the bombardment was not of ViZionarian origin. How can we explain something that we did not commit? You tell me that, and then maybe I can tell you what happened. But I simply cannot tell you what happened. Not that I do not want to, but I simply do not have the information. It was not of ViZionarian origin.

"As for comdemning Kraven Corporation for their war, ViZion will do that. After all, we have, from the very begining, disagreed with their motives for war.

"As for the military base, ViZion would require that your nation give a written statement agreeing to allow us to build our base after 5 (NS) years should relations continue to improve. And to show our good will, if Xirnium agrees to allow us to build a base immediately following this meeting, we will, in turn, allow Xirnium to build a base along our coastline in Angola (OOC: In Africa along the Atlantic)."

As Jack finished up, he sat back into his seat and leaned back.

At least we're getting somewhere, the Grand Cardinal thought.

"Regarding your offer of exchanging military bases we accept, although the Ecclesiarchy is puzzled that you would consider this such a major concern.

"A condemnation of the filthy Kraven Corportation will not suffice, its parasite slave nations like Concermo and Mini Miehm, must also be included. Though they are nothing but servants to their Kraven masters, those foul nations have also wronged us and they must be denounced for the scum that they are.

“And finally we come to the issue of the “phantom ships” which apparently you so casually allowed to infiltrate your fleet without so much as a single challenge. We aren’t satisfied. We know you know more. We cannot believe that you don’t have some idea who fired on our shoreline. Who else was in the area? We must know. Those filthy dogs must be held accountable.”

"I too would like to know what ViZion knows of the ships", said the Emperor. "You say they were not yours, and in that we believe you, but surely you must know something about them, or else you would not have thought them safe enough to approach so close to your ships.”

Once again, jack sat forward with a straight face so undistingished, it appeared as if he was in the world series of poker, and said, "As we have told you before, we do not know who fired upon your nation. I simply do not have that information. If I had any information, I would hand it over to you. But I simply do not have that information.

"As for the question refering to why we are so interested in a military base, it is, quite frankly, a very big interest in ViZion, as our military is always looking for ways to expand and be able to react quicker to a hostile nation."

The Grand Cardinal, Lord High Nidor, was not impressed. Only the slightest tick betrayed his emotions.

"You'll have to do better than that, Jack. It is simply unfeasible that you would allow unidentified ships to infiltrate your fleet. We want a full list of the transcripts you made with other vessels in the area as well as the raw data of your radar records. We know there were more than just ViZion ships in the area. Who were they?"

This will not end well, thought the General the moment Cardnal Nidor hade finished speaking. That is not a luxury we have.

“Perhaps, Grand Cardinal Nidor”, he began, folding his arms and leaning them on the table, “this is a matter that can be investigated after the immediate threat has been removed. If ViZion had plans to destroy you, they could well have done so by now.
The Imperial fleet engages Kraven’s warships even as we speak, but they brought more vessels than anticipated and if we cannot hold them, they will make landfall on your nation. Those missiles will seem like pinpricks compared to the deaths that will befall from Kraven’s attack.”

Jack was about to make a response that likely would not have gone over well, but decided he'd keep his mouth shut, especially after he heard Yallak's suggestion.

"If Xirnium is willing to set aside that until this war is over, that is fine with us. The sooner we set this meeting over, and preferably in better shape then we came in on, the better it will be for the Xirnium people." Jack responded.

"What do you propose?" asked the Grand Cardinal, skeptical at the ViZion delegate's reluctance to address what he saw as a major issue, but realising that no breakthroughs would be occuring on that front any time soon.

“Well, you have both agreed to each other major terms. Let us not push things any further.
I suggest Xirnium now makes its apology for the bad media releases about ViZion, and then we all go and stop Kraven.”

An aide entered the room, whispering quickly into the Grand Cardinal's ear. The Grand Cardinal's face betrayed no emotion, he gave only the slightest nod before his aide passed him a slip of paper and walked quickly and quietly out of the conference room.

"I'm afraid that the issue of the "phantom ships" that ViZion supposedly knows nothing about cannot be ignored no matter the urgency," the Grand Cardinal began.

"The Xirnium Inquisition knows that you were exchanging transmissions with other ships in the area. You must divulge all these secrets. The Xirnium Inquisition has decoded this intercepted transmission," the Grand Cardinal slammed a slip of paper on the ground.

The paper read:

Xirnium Inquisitorial Intelligence Agency

Intercepted and decoded transmission: From ViZion warship to
warship unknown.

Message reads:
++++++++ and begin another campaign onto ++++++++
Those bastards want nuclear war! How insane is that? ++++++++
for Xirnium... +++++++ in hell. ++++++++ There was no question as
to who we would fight with until ++++++++ They are on their own
now. We invite your forces, should your government allow you to,
to join us in our next campaign ++++++++++ up. We would like
to be able to fight side by side with you. +++++++

Message Ends.

The Grand Cardinal waited while the ViZion delegate examined the paper. “Explain,” the Grand Cardinal Nidor said.

One though passed the Generals mind. Oh Crap.

There was nothing more he could do, especially if ViZion could not provide the appropriate answers. He fell back into his chair and waited for Jack's reponse - the one which would decide the fate of this meeting.

One of the ViZion bodyguards stepped foreward sliding a mask up and off his head, "Now I can explain that one and ViZion doesn't have to. That is the same transmission ViZion sent to my nations fleet that was just showing up to provide support to their blockade. Untill it left to move to the other conflict." The man gave a sly grin,"Oh yes as for who i am? Alfred Conrad Comdidian Diplomat, and we are known for being sneaky bastards about attending peace talks."

Jack was drinking some water when they handed the paper to him, and he nearly choked. After a few seconds of caughing, and taking a deep breath, he was about to speak, when the Comdidian delegate decided to pop out of his 'other personality'.

Jack had a little snicker that finally worked its way out of before he got his straight face back on. He was clearly quite tickled with his friends little trick.

The General looked more annoyed than surprised. He made to speak but the Emperor raised a hand to stop him.

"Then are we to believe," said Balor, "that the ships which fired on Xirnium were yours?"

"What our ships? No if you look at any tracking from your ships or ViZion's you would see we were hundreds of miles away when our Admiral sent him the transmission that we would be providing emergency air support for them. Plus if we attacked them we wouldn't have run away like cowardly terrorists." said Alfred opening up his laptop and quickly uploading to the secured file network to download the sateillite images of where the Comdidian fleet had been stationed.

"Another reason is within the first arriving ships their were no missile ships to speak off. Only our Aircraft carriers and their point defense ships."

High Lord Nidor, a Xirnium Grand Cardinal, gazed at this newcomer with a decidedly unimpressed expression. He did not like things being hidden from him and he especially didn't like to be surprised.

"Is this some kind of a joke, Jack, because to be honest I don't see the humour in it at all," the Grand Cardinal said in an icy tone. "Just what kind of a stunt do you think you are pulling, hiding a foreign delegate amongst your guard? Why is it only now that we are told there were Comdidian ships operating in the immediate area of your ships, why have you been hiding this from us?"

"Now, I think I've been amply generous. However I don't like being lied to and I especially don't like being made a fool!" at this his voice rose to a scream. "When were you planning on telling me that a foreign delegate was eavesdropping on this dialogue?! Do you expect me to seriously believe that some "phantom ships" were able to get past both your and Comdidia's without any challenge at all? What planet are you from?

“This ‘dialogue’ is a joke. You've been hiding information from Xirnium to begin with and you still are." At that the Grand Cardinal stormed out, his glass of water slipping carelessly of the great wooden table to shatter into a million pieces as he left the room in disgust.

Alfred chuckled as the man stormed out of the room. "Likeable one that is. And how did the ships slip away? Frankly our Admiral didn't care to engage anything unless ViZion was directly engaged. As per his orders. We were coming to aid our allies not Xirnium. And we were not in the immediate area anyways," he glanced to the report scrolling along his screen."Maximum range of our strike aircraft actually without midair refueling required. So we wouldn't have launched anything to hunt those ships anyway."

Alfred looked to Jack, "Plus you shouldn't have known i was even here untill i was informed to speak by my nice aide listening to this conversation through my speaker here." he only bothered to explain himself since he might as well let the other delegate and ViZion know at least the reasoning even if these foolish others didn't care to wait patiently.

"Alright, so I didn't know you were here. But I should have, knowing you!" Jack said somewhat amused. Then he sighed and offered a blank expression, looking towards the door. "Those damn Xirnium's sure love to up-and-leave these sort of meetings should they be suprised or if things don't appear to be going their way... and to think, once again, that ViZion was actually wanting to help defend them! My God!" he said.

"Well, guess that meets that this meeting is at its end thanks to Xirnium walkout for the second time." Jack shoot up and looked towards the Yallak delegate, "I thank you for offering your services as a host for this meeting. I am sorry to regret that it came to no good end in comparison to the previous meeting. Until next time." and Jack headed to the door.

The Emperor and the General stood, giving there farewells as Jack left.