NationStates Jolt Archive

(Note, this is open RP. A neutral station where any nation may apply to have an embassy and market representitives. Sort of like a huge bazaar within easy hyperjump distance of dozens of civilizations. (Check the map, once someone updates XSS1's position.) )


(You can contact governments at XSS1 via their embassy)
Embassies:
Xeno
Zero Point
Polaris Castes
SeaQuest
Optischer
Omar
Huntaer
Tidan
Lessir Tsurani
Nickotopolis
WinTrees

(Nations that have submitted trade routes and/or have markets at XSS1. I'd say those participating get a rather nice trade bonus.)
Trade routes/links:
Xeno Storerfront (Market)
http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=459672

Zero Point Storefront (Market)
http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=465545

SeaQuestarian Jump Gate

Polaris Castes Trade Gate

Optischer (Market)Huntaer Storefront (Market)
http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?p=9188623#post9188623
http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=438195
http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=415328

Station Rules

General

1) The XSS1 and its system is considered neutral. Any exchanges of weaponsfire in the system will result in sanctions by the Xeno.

2) There are no WMDs allowed within 30,000 kilometers of the XSS1. Any ships armed with WMDs must deactivate them during their proximity to the station.

3) There will be no teleporting to or from the XSS1 station.

4) Emergency services are available at all times.

5) All parties within a 30,000 kilometer proximity to the XSS1 are subject to scans for WMDs.

Embassy

Any nation may set up an embassy at the XSS1 facility.

1) Each embassy is a series of offices with its own personal computer/communications network.

2) Representitives of a government are required to wear passcards with ID, to prevent unauthorized attempts to represent a government.

3) Nations represented at XSS1 with an embassy have 3 reserved docks that may be used free of charge.

Markets

1) Any nation may have a market at XSS1. There are dozens of market and business decks, where your company can set up.

2) There are no taxes placed by the XSS1 currently, but there may be a small charge in the future to 'lease' sections of the business decks for marketing.




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Warships dispatched from the Xeno homeworld of Solaris have arrived to protect the construction of a massive station that is intended to serve not just the needs of Xeno, but those of all civilizations that wish to participate. Specialized construction ships will be on-hand to aid in the construction, and massive cargo-hauling vessels will ferry equipment and materials between Solaris and the construction sector.

Attending the site:
The Xeno battleships Maryland and Arizona, destroyers Anzio and Fredricksburgh, frigates Bola and Hatchet.

Protecting the transports:
Destroyers Waterloo and Agincourt, frigates Axe and Halbard.

Plans for the XSS1 Space Station:

The X1 will be built with a mind to prosperity and longevity. There will be no parts in this station which cannot be replaced. The station will be powered by 32 fusion reactors, each one compartmentalized to the extent that they can be removed and taken apart for maintaince, and recieve a full system check for each reactor every 6 years. The station will be designed to run off of 20 reactors, with 12 backups. The design of the XSS1 follows through with typical Xeno design features, including modular equipment and programing, allowing for easy replacement and upgrading of parts.

Original designs call for 40 decks dedicated to business and a free market, 40 tourist/vacation decks, 5 entertainment decks, 30 cargo decks, 20 private Xeno decks and 20 assorted other decks. Decks have a clearance of 10 meters in height, and have approximately the same floor space as 7 city blocks. In itself, the XSS1 will be a full-sized and completely self-contained city with a recycling water supply, food production and crop growing areas, and an atmospheric system that has no less than 3 backups.

The XSS1 will be fitted with ultra-thick composite armor with layers of radiation and EMP absorbing, laser/heat ablasment and ballistic materials. External solar panels provide power supplements, while station-keeping engines can also propel the XSS1 various distances. There will be point-defense systems consisting of heavy missiles, rapid-fire cannons and lasers on the XSS1 to intercept asteroids and space debris (Not to mention missiles and attacking fighters) and a full compliment of Xeno F-1 fighters, Marines and a full platoon of Drones will maintain security.

The XSS1 design will allow docking from dreadnaught class starships, as well as bearthing for hundreds of shuttles, dropships and private vehicles. XSS1 service shuttles will provide transportation to and from starships as needed, as well as a nearby planet where a spaceport is being constructed to facilitate travel. An additional Wing of F-1 fighters and 5 Brigades of Xeno Infantry will administer to the spaceport.

The XSS1 will be considered fully neutral, and any parties docking with or approaching the XSS1 are under the strictest of codes not to engage in combat with each other or other starships under threat of immediate destruction from protective nearby Xeno battleships.

This will be a forum for civilizations of all types to interact, and is within easy jumping distance of at least 9 civilizations. (Located just slightly 'south' of that big cluster of civilizations on the galactic map the Xeno homeworld lays outside of.)

Construction has begun and is soon to be completed, as decks are finished they will be opened to the public. (Basicly if folks want to start RPing here, they can.)

The GSLC Seeker will be recieving repairs at the XSS1 space station for the time being as its long-range sensors and warp capabilities are restored to the Large Cruiser. The weapons systems are to be left alone, as it contains a weapon that cannot fall into anyone else's hands. Green Sun thanks the Xenon nonetheless for its generosity.

Green Sun would also like to bring up the Federal Trade Union. It is a non-military alliance of nations that promote trade among nations and the Xenon would prove to be a very useful addition to the alliance.
((See sig if you're interested. Sorry if I seem like a salesman, I'm the recruiter and you seem like someone who would be a great addition to the FTU.))

An emergency ship is waiting when the Seeker jumps into the system. In the distance, the half-completed station can be seen, with traffic heading to and from the finished decks where business is already going on. The emergency vessel will follow the Seeker in to where it can settle at a repair/service dock. EVA equipped workers will begin the repairs, and the Seeker's crew are free to visit the public areas of the station, including the markets.

A liason officer, one Major Seany will handle the discussion on the Federal Trade Union. She brings the Green Sun representitive to her office and settles down behind her desk, hands clasped. "I am told that you have a proposition. Please explain."

"Well, I am an employee of the Federation Trade Union. It's a mostly-private trade organization that distributes goods aroud teh galaxy and farther in many cases," the man said. He was a civilian around twenty-five with an FTU uniform on, "And I believe that the Xeno nation would prove to be an excellent addition."

Major Seany sat back in her chair, tapping away at her computer console. "Where is this trade union based from? What sort of resources or advantages are available to members or prospective members? What about tithes or dues?"

"Space Union was its founder. The main facility is in their space. The FTU does have taxes, but they are lighter for members and all available materials are equally available to all. All resources that you donate to the FTU are handled by them, but the founding nation of the product does get a profit from their donation."

The young lady raised a brow at this, still tapping away at her keyboard. "I see. So in effect, it is double taxation. The taxes of the original producer, and then an additional tax by this so-called 'FTU'. Seeing as how the primary facilities are inconviently not near us, there is very little point in participating. What is the point of having such a union? Worlds are free to trade their products between one another as it is already." She looked thoughtful as she hit a button on her telephone, "Please send in Slath," spoken into the intercom.

Her grey eyes lifted to focus on the man across her desk, "Slath is our chief scientist." A moment later, in stepped a smaller, less-dark colored Xeno. One of the scientist caste.

"Yes, Major?"

"This man.. I never caught his name represents Green Sun, and he is attempting to get us to join a trade union. This is my information so far." Turning her screen a bit so that Slath can read it. A moment later, he peered over his bifocals at the stranger.

"This does not make appropriate sense to me. There is no trade cargo transit system in place, and the distances involved between the organization members makes facilitation of trade most awkward. What you need, is a primary market and a consolidation of export goods and import needs. Thus one department can administer to all parties involved."

Those civilian and merchant shuttles passing to and from the XSS1 had the astonishing view of three Xeno battleships sitting out among the dark field of stars beyond the station. One of the battleships, slightly larger than the others bore an odd red glyph on the nose, the symbol of the Xeno. A pair of destroyers and pair of frigates patrolled the sector, scanners sweeping passively for signs of threats and finding none.

On the Pennsylvania,
There were thirty officers in one of the private meeting rooms. A long table at which sat representitives of all three wings of the Xeno military, the Navy, Army and Drone. Although technically part of the Army, the Drones were basicly their own organization within the Xeno military. Seated at the head of the table is Fleet Admiral Kay, with the Army's Corp Commander, Eean to his right and Rear-Admiral Mia to his left. Down the right side were Army officers, and to the left Navy officers.

A holoprojector was focused on the center of the table, displaying a white little planet and several glowing red locations on it. An Intelligence Major stood with her hands clasped behind her back, talking, "This is 'Planet Four' in System Sixty Six Seventy Twenty. It is approximately ten AIs coreward of Solaris, and offers enormous bufferzone potential to the defense of Solaris. However, scans originally indicated intelligent life and further intelligence gathering has revealed that this is a human colony. It would seem they are leftovers from the first war with the humans a hundred years ago, and have established a city on the planet."

Rear Admiral Miadoka leaned towards the Major, "Are they willing to let us establish a listening post and defensive positions?"

The Intelligence Major shook her head, "No m'am. The Coral Sea jumped into their system and attempted to establish communications. A human fleet engaged them, and Admiral Loki was forced to withdraw. We later attempted communications from a safer distance, but recieved a rather.. unsatisfactory insult in return. They feel we are still at war, and have been building up to the day they can strike at us."

Rear Admiral Mia's brow frowned as she looked around the table. Fleet Admiral Kay hit a few commands on his keyboard, and the holographic image of Planet Four shrunk down, showing the rest of that solar system and its seven planets and orange dwarf sun. "Very well. As we agreed when we discovered the world, it must be established as a listening post and defensive barrier to protect Solaris. Corp Commander, what is the status of your forces?"

Eean, a battle-scarred Xeno stood. "Fleet Admiral, we currently have ten Infantry Divisions online at Solaris, in an initial wave, I suspect we can land one full batallion to serve as a beachead force and hold enough ground to begin placing dropships. Depending on enemy aerospace assets and resistance, we can place an additional batallion on the planet within four hours."

Kay examined the planet's surface thoughtfully, "Very well." Trusting Eean to handle that part of it, Kay looked down the table, "Group Leader Raven, I want you to assign all five of your Wings to the assault, and Group Leader Darreh, you are to assign two Wings to the assault. Aside from the usual compliment of F-1s on our starships, I want at least three full Wings to help with neutralizing the human fleet and their own fighter craft." His claws tapped at a few commands, "I am assigning three battleships, four destroyers and three frigates to the assault force. Primarily it is our duty to make sure that the ground attacks go smoothly and the shuttles and dropships make it safely to the planet." Operational plans downloaded themselves into the various handhelds and computers at the stations of the officers.

So it began.

"That's what we've been telling them, really. But nobody ever listens to us. If you ever change your mind, contact the Eudoria facility in Space Union. Green Sun would be more than happy to move the goods for you. I will take my leave," the man said, bowing. He turned and left the room.

Transmission from the Howard Fleet:
This is Admiral Howard of the GSLD Arabia to Xenon XSS1 facility. It seems you in possession of one of our Large Cruisers. Captain Locks was tracking a stolen vessel and his last transmission to us came from this facility. We have a repair cube with us that can finish up teh repairs in a matter of hours so we can take the Seeker off of your hands.

Major Zale and Slath exchanged a look as the fellow abruptly took his leave.

Howard Fleet,
"Repairs are going as planned and are on schedule. You may leave the Seeker here until the repairs are complete, or you may take it. It is your choice. Note that our facilities are top of the line, and the work is being done with all alacrity."

A blue vortex formed fifteen kilometers at a forty-five degree vertical angle from the XSS1. The I.S.S. Carlson slipped out of the Jump Point and approached the Xeno station.

The Phobos class deep-space frigate hailed the station and requested docking clearance.

We do need the ship back in top shape and we cannot allow you to access its weapons system. No offense, but this is our first contact and it's protocol. There may be Black Sun terrorists about and we can take no chances. We thank you nonetheless.

We do need the ship back in top shape and we cannot allow you to access its weapons system. No offense, but this is our first contact and it's protocol. There may be Black Sun terrorists about and we can take no chances. We thank you nonetheless.


The signals officer handling the Seeker situation looked out her window towards the cluster of menacing black Xeno starships barely visable kilometers away. "Pirates... riiight." The officer next to her, a male sent a thought to her ~Not while Fleet Admiral Kay is around,~ to which the female nodded, then sent her signal to the Green Sun representitives,

"Acknowledged. The Seeker is cleared to exit drydock when convient."

And she hit a few control studs, sending the message on.

Meanwhile, in another office another signals officer returned the Carlson's hail,

"Carlson, you are cleared to merge at Dock Two. Sending schematic now." And with it went a sort of mini-map and guidance to show the ship where to dock.

The Carlson slipped gracefully on her Gravimetric Engines towards the designated location. One of the 230 meter long ship's air-locks was line up and attached.

I.S.S. Carlson - Airlock

A small group of mixed species, led by Lieutenant Commander Lusolic'a and his two Fluidian compatriates, were waiting for the seal to be confirmed and the lock to open so they could cross over into the station.

The automated system scanned the lock, then once assured of a good deal the doors opened with a hiss of air. Standing inside the bay are a pair of Xenos, one male and one female, appearently diplomat types. Major Seany gave a salute, "Welcome to the XSS1. I am told, you are here for diplomatic reasons? If not, you are free to tour the facility's public areas and market."

Something was stirring in the sector. On a plane somewhat above the XSS1 and farther from the sun, there sat ten silent and black Xeno warships ranging from the compact and sleek frigates to the massive, smooth battleships. Hundreds of F-1 fighters were in motion, guiding into bays and ports, while around them the larger, spherical shapes of dropships docked with the warships like warts on the smooth skins of the Xeno starcraft.

A constant stream of shuttles and dropships makes its way from the nearby planet with its spaceport to the fleet, and service vehicles make final checks on the hulls of the warships and their various electronics.

The automated system scanned the lock, then once assured of a good deal the doors opened with a hiss of air. Standing inside the bay are a pair of Xenos, one male and one female, appearently diplomat types. Major Seany gave a salute, "Welcome to the XSS1. I am told, you are here for diplomatic reasons? If not, you are free to tour the facility's public areas and market."

Lusolic'a nods, "I, and my two friends here," he gestures at the two Fluidians, "came to discuss diplomatics. The rest of them, they were just curious. You know how the young are."

Lusolic'a nods, "I, and my two friends here," he gestures at the two Fluidians, "came to discuss diplomatics. The rest of them, they were just curious. You know how the young are."

Major Seany nodded to her partner. "Ensign Jorego here will escort the rest of your people to the market and entertainment decks and can also arrange for a tour if desired." The entertainment decks consist of various holomovie theatres, swimming and sports training, laser tag, wargames, F-1 simulators that can network up to 40 participants and various other things.

Meanwhile, Major Seany walks Lusolic and the others to the embassy deck, which at the moment has only a Xeno embassy office on it. Many other offices dark and waiting for nations to sign on with the XSS1. "As the guest, you may discuss your needs first." Said as she settled in behind her desk.

Major Seany nodded to her partner. "Ensign Jorego here will escort the rest of your people to the market and entertainment decks and can also arrange for a tour if desired." The entertainment decks consist of various holomovie theatres, swimming and sports training, laser tag, wargames, F-1 simulators that can network up to 40 participants and various other things.

Meanwhile, Major Seany walks Lusolic and the others to the embassy deck, which at the moment has only a Xeno embassy office on it. Many other offices dark and waiting for nations to sign on with the XSS1. "As the guest, you may discuss your needs first." Said as she settled in behind her desk.

The five SeaQuestian Ensigns (3 male (1 Alteran; 1 Draconian; 1 Minbari (Warrior Caste); 2 female (1 Minbari (Religious Caste); 1 Narn)), were freash from the Academy and eagerly followed their guide.

Lusolic'a stood across the desk from her, it would be rude of him to take a seat without being asked. The two Fluidians that had followed stood on each side of the door.

Lusolic'a said, pulling three half-meter long clear crystals (http://www.b5tech.com/misctech/householdtech/datacrystile/dc.jpg) from a pounch hanging from a strap over his left shoulder and across his chest, "These," he put the crystals on their flat bases on the desk, "are all the unclassified star charts the Empire has. I figured we could star from there."

The young lady looked down at the crystals, then hit a button on her intercom. A moment later, a Xeno scientist entered. The two communicated back and forth mentally for a moment, then he scooped them up with a nod and exited.

Major Seany gestured to the comfortable chairs in the office. They are compatible for species with tails, since that's how the male Xenos are. "Please make yourself comfortable. Can I get you a drink?" The Xeno scientist returned after a few seconds carrying a plastic box filled with CDs and data diskettes. He sets those down on the desk. "These are our star charts also. We have labelled the ones that have been explored."

Lusolic'a nodded and said, as one of the Fluidians stepped up and picked up the case, "Thank-you. The Lieutenant will take care of them."

The Fluidian in questian departed with the case heading back to the SeaQuestian ship to analyze them.

"My other friend," Lusolic'a indicates the remaining Fluidian, "is the Lieutenant Commander in charge of the science department aboard the ship. If you have any questions regarding science, ask him, as its not my department.

"As for your offer of a drink," he said sitting in the indicated seat, "some water would be nice. Our medical staff would have to study samples of your standard, and exotic, fares to judge if it would be safe for us to consume. I'm sure the same thing would be true in your case."

Major Seany nodded to the Lieutenant Commander and tapped a few buttons on her computer. A couple of minutes later a civilian from one of the food courts appears with a tray bearing three glasses of water. One for each of the three still in the room. Meanwhile, the Major went on, "I doubt you would find a problem with Xeno fare. It's primarily Terran food, earth food. Our people picked up an affection for it, and it is fairly simple to grow and replicate. If you take time to visit the food courts or restaraunts aboard the XSS1 I am sure your party will find something that they all enjoy."

She clasped her hands over her abdomen and casually leaned back in her chair, almost lifting her boots up to the edge of her desk to relax, but then remembering the semi-formality and leaving them down. "Tell me a bit more about your nation, if you don't mind."

Captain Evan Harper of the ENV Cormeau decloaked his previously invisible Arian Class Battlecruiser 600 Kilometres from the XSS1.
"Lt. Hutchinson, actively scan the area for all vessels, any cloaked any hostile."
"Sir I am reading no cloaked vessels and no hostiles within station range." the OPS officer declared from his post.
"Alright. Lt. hail the rest of our strike force. Tell them to decloak." Immediately three more vessels shimmered into visibility. There was the ENV Diomedes the Gemini Class carrier, the ENV Ceti which was a Libran Class Gunship and another Arian, the ENV Gordievsky all aligned behind the Cormeau.
"Now Lieutennant, hail the station and request asylum." soon the station managers face appeared on Evan's panel.
"Hello manager, I am Captain Evan Harper of the Arian Class Cormeau, and I am the head of this strike force. We are here because the Emperor is currently in need of some forces to monitor other areas of the galaxy and has sent this strike force from Nickotopolis on Nypenyoka to set up a base here. We request permission to dock here for several months until we are replaced."

To the Cormeau,

"The XSS1 is neutral, and you are welcome to dock and use our facilities. However, nuclear and biological weapons must be dearmed for the duration of your presence within 200 kilometers of the station. This is for the protection of our facility, and not out of mistrust for any parties. We invite your nation to establish an embassy at XSS1 and storefront if desired. Your ships are cleared to dock at docks four, five, six and seven. We are beaming you guidance information now."

And a transmission was sent, basicly a mini-map of the station's docks and which ones are assigned to the Arians.

Evan glanced at the reports.
Biological and Nuclear Weapons? A tad archaic. The fleet used none of those. Still, urgent to respect the managers wishes, he ordered the fleet to Alert 2 which dropped their weapons but kept their sheilds raised, while easing the ships into their docks. It seemed to be quite a nice place. Evan smiled. Being posted here would be a pleasure.

The crews are free to explore the public areas of the station, which represent a majority of the facility. There are literally thousands of stores, movie theatres, restaraunts, fitness areas, museums and services. It's pretty much a floating city. The Arians will need to rent places to stay, but the rooms are basicly luxury at economy price with even the basic room having its own holo-TV (Complete with satellite feed), climate control, a large bed, dressers, closet, shower/bathroom, carpeted floors and a replicator. The higher-end rooms have all of that and more, of course.

There are also shuttles down to the planet below, which has lush forests and large, beautiful lakes where boats can be rented and fishing for big aquatic critters is always an entertaining endevor.

Still, the embassy offices sit dark and empty for the most part, except for those occupied by the Xeno embassy.

Guided tours are available for a minimal fee, and highlight a couple of the big engine compartments as well as defenses to help the nervous realize that staying at the XSS1 is as safe as having your feet on the soil of a planet somewhere. But without the risk of lightning.

The Following Transmission was sent from an unknown location.

To the Xeno government,

Greetings, Xeno. It is glad to see a new an prosperous nation once more among the stars. The Polaris Castes, and I in particular, would like to open relations with your nation through three principle means:

1) To build, maintain, and open an Embasy in your station.
2) To begin a flow of traders, entrepenures, workers, scouts, and other Polaris traders/civilians. Perhaps starting a trade hub between this station and our facilities at Verash in the Outbound system.
3) To house the possible base of operations for a future endevor the Tre'pira caste wishes to attempt: a Terraforming, Soil Reclemation, and Habitat Rebuilding Service for the galaxy.

If you accept our wishes, a diplomat will be sent to negotiate all of the arangements. We must warn you, though, that our own ships are biological in origin. We do not know if this violates your rules on non-biological weapons. However, we shall send an unarmed Sprite cargoship to dock while two gunboats stand watch if that would satisfy your rules.

May there be much prosperity between our peoples, and may Ory'Hara watch over you always.

Sincerely,

-Bis Andreya

Evan read this last message.
"Do we really need to rent rooms?? We have staterooms on board. We will however pay for the dock rentals." He said to his officer who stood rigidly in front of him. Excellent. We shall enjoy our time here.

The Following Transmission was sent from an unknown location.

To the Xeno government,

Greetings, Xeno. It is glad to see a new an prosperous nation once more among the stars. The Polaris Castes, and I in particular, would like to open relations with your nation through three principle means:

1) To build, maintain, and open an Embasy in your station.
2) To begin a flow of traders, entrepenures, workers, scouts, and other Polaris traders/civilians. Perhaps starting a trade hub between this station and our facilities at Verash in the Outbound system.
3) To house the possible base of operations for a future endevor the Tre'pira caste wishes to attempt: a Terraforming, Soil Reclemation, and Habitat Rebuilding Service for the galaxy.

If you accept our wishes, a diplomat will be sent to negotiate all of the arangements. We must warn you, though, that our own ships are biological in origin. We do not know if this violates your rules on non-biological weapons. However, we shall send an unarmed Sprite cargoship to dock while two gunboats stand watch if that would satisfy your rules.

May there be much prosperity between our peoples, and may Ory'Hara watch over you always.

Sincerely,

-Bis Andreya


Major Zale looked up from her new desk at the Xeno embassy aboard XSS1 and studied her computer screen. The first real attempt by another civilization to establish a link at the XSS1 facility. Finally, someone seems to get it. She immedietly got to work on the return signal,

To the Polaris Castes,
"We appreciate your interest in the XSS1 facility and we are glad to see that you realize the enormous potential for what we are attempting to achieve with this. I will reply in order to your queries,

1) Offices can be made available as soon as your embassy workers and diplomats arrive at XSS1. Special discounts are afforded to workers of embassies, to help ensure that they can support themselves here. In effect, this would be the same as living in on another world during your worker's stay.

2) We are working on programs that will automaticly guide ships through hyper jumps, and automaticly help them along on trade routes. This would be in effect, like an autopilot for the trade routes that are establishing themselves between XSS1 and various other civilizations, and between them also. You are more than welcome to set up a trade office here, and use the facility as a depot and stopping point on the trade routes. Due to the position of our facility, it is a very convient stopping point and relay to dozens of civilizations in the sector.

3) We have massive facilities to allow for permanant and temporary stay both at XSS1 and the planet that it orbits. We have entire decks with family-sized units where people can settle in and feel at home. It is very likely that our own scientists would like to work with your own on the colonization project, as we Xeno are always willing to learn more and spread our grasp of the universe beyond where it is now.

- From the desk of Major Zale, Xeno Department of Foreign Affairs

Our forces will be passing through the area soon and wish to have 5 very large rooms with "adult " entertainment waiting...... We will pay.

Evan read this last message.
"Do we really need to rent rooms?? We have staterooms on board. We will however pay for the dock rentals." He said to his officer who stood rigidly in front of him. Excellent. We shall enjoy our time here.

Reply,
"However your people are most-comfortable. We simply suggested that renting rooms temporarily is an idea for those among your crew who are getting tired of looking at the same corridors and bulkheads. We have the same problem among some of our own crew at times."

Our forces will be passing through the area soon and wish to have 5 very large rooms with "adult " entertainment waiting...... We will pay.

From the tourism and public services department, XSS1,
"Although it's not something that we like to discuss, that sort of entertainment is legal and can be found on entertainment decks B2 and B3."

We are glad to hear. We will be there soon, we will not need to dock . I hope we are not interrupted.

We are glad to hear. We will be there soon, we will not need to dock . I hope we are not interrupted.

The communications techs looked at each other, then shrugged.

"Very well. We hope that you enjoy your stay."

Major Seany nodded to the Lieutenant Commander and tapped a few buttons on her computer. A couple of minutes later a civilian from one of the food courts appears with a tray bearing three glasses of water. One for each of the three still in the room. Meanwhile, the Major went on, "I doubt you would find a problem with Xeno fare. It's primarily Terran food, earth food. Our people picked up an affection for it, and it is fairly simple to grow and replicate. If you take time to visit the food courts or restaraunts aboard the XSS1 I am sure your party will find something that they all enjoy."

She clasped her hands over her abdomen and casually leaned back in her chair, almost lifting her boots up to the edge of her desk to relax, but then remembering the semi-formality and leaving them down. "Tell me a bit more about your nation, if you don't mind."

Lusolic'a replied as he sipped at his water, "There are three main planets, each home to one of three primary races that make up the empire. In the Alteran star system, there is the planet of Altera III. An M-class world and home to the people that actually founded the Empire. The Alterans," he took a sip of water, "are an old race. According to their records, ten-thousand-years-ago, most of their population choose to Ascend to a higher plane of existance through artifical means. Those that remained had chosen to evolve naturally. Lately, several interesting mental abilities are manifesting themselves in the Alteran's of today.

I, myself, am from a Draconian. I come from Draconia, technically Draconis III, in the Draconis star system. My ancestors were cliff dwellers, thus the claws, and used their wings more for gliding than anything else. We still have a few remnants of our ancestral species back on Draconia. They, like the ones long ago, use two glands, one in each cheek, to create two seperate chemicals. When mixed with their saliva, it formed an acidic substance that they used to burrow into the cliff face. An interesting side effect is, when the two chemicals mixed with each other but not the saliva, and exposed to oxygen, create a flamethrower like burst of flame that can be thrown by exhaling."

He pointed to his own cheeks with a free claw before continuing, "In modern Draconians, those two glands still exist, but they aren't as potent as they used to be.

"As for the third planet, that is Draconis IV. Draconis IV is home to the Furlings. The Furlings are an interesting species. They look like humans crossed with animal species, but they evolved that way without any outside interferance. They come in several different shapes, sizes, and forms, though they evolved from fox-like creatures, but they are all civilized.

"Each planet had its own space program, but Altera was the first to develop intersellar travel when they found the first of the original Jump Gates. This allowed them access to the old Hyperspace network and access to the entire galaxy. They met several of the lesser races that make up the Empire, including a disasterous first encounter with the Minbarri.

"The Minbarri had heard of their exploits and come looking for them. Though, when their ships met, the Minbarri had their gun ports open as a sign of respect, but the Alteran commander of the task group mistook that for an act of agression and attacked. This misunderstanding led to the drawn out Altera-Minbarri War. The last battle in that war was the Battle Of The Line, when Minbarri forces were at lunar orbit of Altera itself. In the end, even though they had the advantage, the Minbarri surrendered. It was unexplained at the time, but today, it is suspected to have been because of the similarities between Minbarri and Alteran genetic code.

"After the War, the Alterans and Minbarri started the Interstellar Alliance, a galactic union of all space faring races in the hopes of preventing a similar occurance. The I.S.A. is still around today, but its no longer the powerhouse it once was. After the formation of the Empire, and the start of construction on the early structures comprising the beginnings of the Pendragon Complex, the I.S.A. shrunk back to more of a galactic alliance dedicated to keeping the peace through the Anla-Shok, which is Minbarri for the Rangers."

He took a longer sip of water, the Fluidian signalled telepathically that he didn't want his glass and that the Lieutenant Commander could have it.

Lusolic'a continued, after giving his thanks to his Fluidian friend, "Back before the formation of the Empire, and even before that of the I.S.A., there was the Dilgar War, which is what attracted the Minbarri's attention and caused them to seek out the Alterans. The Alterans back then were a bit more war-like and would defend themselves with a furor not seen today. Even today, Imperial ships still hold over with concepts from those ancient days with the massive amounts of armor used. But, today, as back then, they won't attack without just reason.

"After the Empire took control of the Draconis Galaxy, where my homeworld is, as well as the Alteran's own home galaxy, they decided to spead out and contact other nations. The first nation that the Empire came into contact with was the Humankind Empre Abh. With Abh, Coreworlds, Deahteron, and Neo Zeta, the Empire was one of the original members of an international alliance called the Galactic Federation Of Free Alliances (http://s14.invisionfree.com/Galactic_Federation/index.php?), or G.F.F.A. (http://forums2.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=450742) for short. It is a group that is one of friendship. Each member nation watches the backs of its fellows. An act of war on one, is considered an act of war on all."

He reaches into the sack and pulls out a PADD.

He hands it over and says, "This is a copy of the G.F.F.A. constitution. Read it through and think it over."

The Consutition of the Galactic Federation

Preamble: We the Nations of The Galactic Federation of Free Alliances have joined togather in the intrest of Mutal Protection, Trade, and the well being of our nations and the Universe. We hold our rights and freedom high above all else even power. Our peoples will fight togather in war and trade in peace. A new age for the Universe dawns today. Long live the GFFA!

Article. I.
Section 1
All legislative Powers herein granted shall be vested in a High Council of the GFFA. Made up of the High Council and The Triad Council.

Section 2

The High Council will be made up of member nations who have been approved as loyal nations. They will have the power to speak and vote on matters brought before the High Council. Two members will be needed to bring up a bill or matter before the High Council.

A Majority vote will pass or block said bill or matter. However said matters can be vetoed by the Praetor and a majority vote of the Triad Council.

Section 3

The Triad Council will be made up of three members who have been voted into power by the people. However One Founding member will be allowed to serve on the council untell such time as a admendment is passed.

The Triad Council has the right to investigate High Council and Praetor Actions with out notice. They also over see the High Council's most importent votes.

Section 4
Clause 1: The High Council shall have Power To lay and collect Taxes, Duties, Imposts and Excises, to pay the Debts and provide for the common Defence and general Welfare of the GFFA; but all Duties, Imposts and Excises shall be uniform throughout the GFFA;
Clause 2: To borrow Money on the credit of the GFFA;
Clause 3: To regulate Commerce with foreign Nations for Allience wide trade.
Clause 4: To establish an uniform Rule of Naturalization, and uniform Laws on the subject of Bankruptcies throughout the GFFA when it comes to debt owed to the GFFA
Clause 5: To promote the Progress of Science and useful Arts, by securing for limited Times to Authors and Inventors the exclusive Right to their respective Writings and Discoveries;
Clause 6: To constitute Tribunals inferior to the supreme Court;
Clause 7: To define and punish Piracies and Felonies committed in Space, and Offences against the Law of Nations;
Clause 8: To declare War, grant Letters of Marque and Reprisal, and make Rules concerning Captures on Land and Space;
Clause 9: To raise and support Armies, but no Appropriation of Money to that Use shall be for a longer Term than two Years;
Clause 10: To provide and maintain a Navy;
Clause 11: To make Rules for the Government and Regulation of the land and naval Forces under controle of the GFFA;
Clause 12: To provide for calling forth the Militia to execute the Laws of the Union, suppress Insurrections and repel Invasions;
Clause 13: To provide for organizing, arming, and disciplining, the Militia, and for governing such Part of them as may be employed in the Service of the GFFA, reserving to the States respectively, the Appointment of the Officers, and the Authority of training the Militia according to the discipline prescribed by Congress;

Article. II.
Section. 1.
Clause 1: The executive Power shall be vested in a Praetor of the GFFA. He shall hold his Office during the Term 5 months, and, together with the Vice Praetor, chosen for the same Term, be elected, as follows
Clause 2: In Case of the Removal of the Praetor from Office, or of his Death, Resignation, or Inability to discharge the Powers and Duties of the said Office, the Same shall devolve on the VicePraetor, and the High Council may by Law provide for the Case of Removal, Death, Resignation or Inability, both of the Praetor and Vice Praetor, declaring what Officer shall then act as Praetor, and such Officer shall act accordingly, until the Disability be removed, or a Praetor shall be elected.
Clause 8: Before he enter on the Execution of his Office, he shall take the following Oath or Affirmation:--"I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully execute the Office of Praetor of the Galactic Federation of Free Alliences, and will to the best of my Ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the GFFA."

Section. 2.
Clause 1: The Praetor shall be Commander in Chief of the Army and Navy of the GFFA, and of the Militia of the several Member States, when called into the actual Service of the GFFA; he may require the Opinion, in writing, of the principal Officer in each of the executive Departments, upon any Subject relating to the Duties of their respective Offices, and he shall have Power to grant Reprieves and Pardons for Offences against the GFFa, except in Cases of Impeachment.
Clause 2: He shall have Power, by and with the Advice and Consent of the High Council, to make Treaties, provided two thirds of the Senators present concur; and he shall nominate, and by and with the Advice and Consent of the High Council, shall appoint Ambassadors, other public Ministers and Consuls, Judges of the supreme Court, and all other Officers of the GFFA, whose Appointments are not herein otherwise provided for, and which shall be established by Law:
Clause 3: The Praetor shall have Power to fill up all Vacancies that may happen during the Recess of the High Council, by granting Commissions which shall expire at the End of their next Session.
Section. 3.
The Praetor, Vice-Praetor and all civil Officers of the GFFA, shall be removed from Office on Impeachment for, and Conviction of, Treason, Bribery, or other high Crimes and Misdemeanors

Article. III.
Section. 1.
The judicial Power of the GFFa, shall be vested in one Supreme Court, and in such inferior Courts as the Congress may from time to time ordain and establish. The Judges, both of the supreme and inferior Courts, shall hold their Offices during good Behaviour, and shall, at stated Times, receive for their Services, a Compensation, which shall not be diminished during their Continuance in Office. The court will be made up of Two Judges.

Section. 2.
Clause 1: Treason against the GFFA, shall consist only in levying War against them, or in adhering to their Enemies, giving them Aid and Comfort. No Person shall be convicted of Treason unless on the Testimony of two Witnesses to the same overt Act, or on Confession in open Court.
Clause 2: The Congress shall have Power to declare the Punishment of Treason, but no Attainder of Treason shall work Corruption of Blood, or Forfeiture except during the Life of the Person attainted

Article IV
New members may be admited with a majority vote or by being admited by the Triad Council. However said votes can be vetoed by the Praetor.

Article V

Section 1
Member nations will be allowed to withdraw from the GFFA if they so see fit.
Section 2
Member Nations will be asked to donate military ships and men for the GFFA combined fleet. Battlesations, Trade Stations, Embassys, and Shipyards may and can be built in member nation space with the permission of said nation. Howeved they will be property of The GFFA. Land and or Space may be given or sold to the GFFA as well for its use and member use.

Article VI

Section1
All member nations will pay dues and taxs that will be set up by the High Council at a later date. Said taxs and dues will be fair and created by a majority rule.

Articale VII

Section 1
During times of major war and or massive civil unrest the High Council has the power to vote the Praetor emergency powers. These powers will allow him to make military actions with out a vote as long as it deals with the problem or war at hand and dose not turn into a genocide of said enemy.

Section 2
The Praetor will have the power to forge alliences,trade and arms deals vital to bringing peace or ending the unrest with out a vote by the High Council

Section 3
The Praetor will return powers when the High Council deems the Emergency has passed or the war ended. Failure to do so will force the High Council to remove the Praetor from office and use force if need be

Articale VIII

Section 1
The Allience has no power to interfear in a civil war of a member nation unless one of the following occures.

1: Member Nation request aid to end the Civil War. A vote will then be brought up
2: A outside nation supports the rebelling side and or started the war
3: One side proves to be a threat to the G.F.F.A.
4: G.F.F.A. forces,property or other member nations are attacked
5: Genocide is being commited by one or more sides

Section 2
The G.F.F.A. will not impose any new goverment unless the goverment of said nation has collapsed. Then a temp goverment will be set up untell said nation can reform its goverment.

After handing the pad over, he asked, "How would you feel if the Empire sent a ship to build a Jump Gate (http://forums2.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=10120884&postcount=60) near this station?"

CGV Dancing With Foxes

The craft moved through space, its long thin form moving smoothly along on its Warp Engines. It moved with a porcalin grace, the Exit from Hyperspace having thrown it into Real-space with not so much as a wisper.

On the bridge, the veiwscreens surrounded Captain Kanis Lara. The man was a tall lean figure, with greying hair, wide nose and several chipped teeth. He looked down at the station before him, sighing.

"Open up communications" he said. "Lets get going shall we?"

Transmission: Broad Spectrum transmission.
File Type: Real Time Audio/Visual

Hello...I am Kanis Lara, Captain of the CGV Dancing with Foxes, Contact Vessel 234 of the Tsurani Empire. I am here via the Empresses command to open negotiations between our two nations.

I hope you allow for this, we await return coordinets and message.

End

To the Dancing with Foxes,

"Acknowledged, Dancing with Foxes docking proceedures are being transmitted now. You are cleared to for Dock Thirteen."

And the mini-map with the proper dock was sent to the new ship, showing it where to go.

--

Meanwhile, Major Zale was examining the G.F.F.A. constitution in her hand, leaning back in her chair and swiveling back and forth slowly. "We've been hearing a lot about these alliances and trade unions lately. We were recently offered a place among one trade union, but really couldn't see an advantage. Really, all they wanted to do was place a double tax on goods. Even people with the most-basic knowledge of trade knows that the less taxes the better. Economies thrive on lower taxes and capitalism is encouraged."

She set the hardcopy of the constitution down on her desk again, "As for the Jump Gate, I think that would be a very good idea. It would certainly facilitate and expeidate trade in the sector. That is one of the primary purposes of this facility, to encourage interaction between all of these races out here. We Xeno see ourselves as sort of neutral parties in all of this, offering somewhere safe that varying civilizations can get together to talk and trade. Even those at war with each other are not permitted to exchange shots here. A Jump Gate would be very helpful to the effort, yes."

Lusolic'a responded, "I'll make the necessary arragements when I get back to the ship. After that, it won't be but a few days until a construction ship will get here via Hyperspace, return to Real Space using her built in Jump Point, and star construction on the fixed Jump Gate."

He pulled a fourth crystal, this one one-fourth of a meter high, from his sack and said, while putting it on the desk, "Then your going to need this. Its a chart of the Hyperspace Beacon Network so you won't get lost in Hyperspace."

"We appreciate your interest in the XSS1 facility and we are glad to see that you realize the enormous potential for what we are attempting to achieve with this. I will reply in order to your queries,

1) Offices can be made available as soon as your embassy workers and diplomats arrive at XSS1. Special discounts are afforded to workers of embassies, to help ensure that they can support themselves here. In effect, this would be the same as living in on another world during your worker's stay.

2) We are working on programs that will automaticly guide ships through hyper jumps, and automaticly help them along on trade routes. This would be in effect, like an autopilot for the trade routes that are establishing themselves between XSS1 and various other civilizations, and between them also. You are more than welcome to set up a trade office here, and use the facility as a depot and stopping point on the trade routes. Due to the position of our facility, it is a very convient stopping point and relay to dozens of civilizations in the sector.

3) We have massive facilities to allow for permanent and temporary stay both at XSS1 and the planet that it orbits. We have entire decks with family-sized units where people can settle in and feel at home. It is very likely that our own scientists would like to work with your own on the colonization project, as we Xeno are always willing to learn more and spread our grasp of the universe beyond where it is now.

- From the desk of Major Zale, Xeno Department of Foreign Affairs

The following transmission was sent from an unknown source approximately 0230 hours ago. Included was a radio, video, and a holographic message for whichever level of technology the Xeno employed. If any visual component was added, it would feature an image of a man. He stood about five-foot eight inches, covered with a black robe. His hair, which fell down past his shoulders, was of a dark-grey color and appeared very grainy and tangled. His eyes were a deep gold, and always seemed watery as though he were to cry. The man's voice was a quaint, rich tone: like the rumbling of the waves on the sea. His tenor was of a soothing and calming quality.

"Bis Andreya," he said, "and the entirety of the Council of Twelve would like to send heart-felt thanks and joy at the prospect of continual relationships with the Xeno people. We have long been travelers of the stars, but have only contacted your species on a few occasions when a careless scout entered Polaris space."

"I must introduce myself. I am Mu'Korell: the designated Polaris Embassador, Diplomat, and Head of Trade for the Xeno. Any treaties, dealings, or other diplomatic relationships will go through me. Anything that we debate of significant importance must be rubber-stamped by a Council member or by the Bis herself."

"I would first like to thank you for providing facilities for any of our Diplomats. There will be a small staff of seven attending our quarters. All of which will be from the Mu'hari caste: Mu'Joneleth, Mu'Rande, Mu'Kepka, Mu'Sakurae, Mu'Jebith, Mu'Nilith, and, of course, myself. They will be identified by their black robes, but whatever other means of identification you require will be provided for them. The offer of discounts for food, services, and other features is graciously appreciated. However, do not fret at losing much. The Polaris, especially the Mu'hari, are a quite frugal people. Anything that is Xeno run will not loose much business. However, we must ask that such discounts will not harm any local free-market traders or other entrepreneurs. We do not want to affect their businesses in a negative way."

"I must also take this time to notify you of Standard Polaris Law regarding Alien Species. Under no circumstances is Polaris software, hardware, technology, or other form of intelligence be extracted from Polaris ships via scans, recording devices, theft, or other informational gathering techniques. Any violations of this will bring swift retrebution from the Nil'kemorya caste. I know this sounds threatening and domeneering, but do not fret. Polaris Cargoships are unarmed by Polaris law, and our ships' hulls are...different enough that scans for weapons, contraband, etc. will be non-detremental to the above accord. Our delegation will arive on a single Sprite transport vessel, though we would like permission to house a Dragon Gunboat in dock as a way to protect and aid the Xeno in defense of this facility."

"Bis Andreya has conferred with the Council of Twelve and the Krypt-tokh, with the United Tribes of the Wraith People as observers, and I have the authorization to offer the following device to be planted near XSS1. In the Days of the Old Empire which stared the Exodus of our people, there were devices known as Tradegates. These used the principle of forming a hole in space time, then folding time over and producing another hole in the desired location. In effect, think of a piece of paper with a hole on one end and a hole on the other. The Tradegate effectively folds space time to connect those two holes, like you would fold a piece of paper to connect the two punctures. The result is an instentanious transportation of mater and energy. However, there are some drawbacks: one must have another Tradegate, with the proper identification codes, in order to effectively use a Tradegate. Recently, we have completed a project known as Operation Gateworld. We have constructed two of these facilities using modern Polaris technology. The Council, therefore, has proposed to place one gate in the Polaris Homesystem of Kel'ariy and another boardering sixty-seven killometers from XSS1. In good time, more systems might be opened to this system. The controls for this gate will be co-owned by a Polaris representative and the Xeno people. They will monitor all travel to and from this gate, and shall authorize access to it via the normal trafic monitoring stations you undoubedly have on your station. This will allow Polaris traders ample, fast, access to XSS1 as well as Xeno traders to Polaris space."

"As for our Terraforming, Soil Reclamation, and Habitat Rebuilding Service, it is a possibility for Xeno scientists to be employed in the service of this: especially if we are flooded with orders. After all, we may need more than a couple dozen Tre'pira workers in order to satisfy the needs of a Planetary terraforming effort. However, this will operate as an independent company subsidized by the Polaris government. If you would like, we may start a project for you at a radically reduced cost in a token of good will. We would do such a service for free, but even a Soil Reclamation project requires enormous amounts of resources and time. Any planetary structure that you wish to be made inhabitable, or any planet currently in your dominion you wish to improve the soil quality or rebuild old destroyed habitat then we can offer you our services. I believe the going rate would be the cost of the materials required to do such a task, with labor paid for by the Polaris Government in a token of good will."

"Additionally, any Polaris traders or businessmen may confront you about government coverage of their facilities. If we could work some deal out in which Polaris citizens could present some form of identification, and their room and board will be paid for by our government, then that would be a satisfactory arrangement."

"I must say once more that it is a wonderful endeavor to begin amiable relations with your people. We hope to learn much not only about your government, but your culture, your lifestyles, your philosophies, and your people. If you accept our envoy, we shall arive aboard the Hara's Hand cargo vessel as soon as possible."

"The Polaris - the honorable castes of Mu'hari, Nil'kemorya, Tre'pira, P'aedt, Ver'ash, and Kel'ariy - extend a last greeting to the Xeno with outstretched hands. May our two people live in peace and prosperity for thousands of years. May our stars never grow cold and dark."

"And may Ory'Hara watch over you always."

+-+-+-+

The screen went dark and there were a few words:

+-+-+Sent and Recorded by Mu'Korell: Laisson to the Xeno People+-+-+

The KS Ghensia dropped out of hyperspace some distance away.

"Right where the traders told us it would be."

"I hope it was worth it. 5 Million Kors for the location of a space station seems excessive."

"But for a chance for a peaceful first contact?"

"Don't ask me, I'm just fly this hunk of junk."

The Captain hailed the space station.
“This is the KS Ghensia, requesting permission to dock. We are currently carrying Ambassador Holden Caulfield, staff and various other civilians to establish a embassy here with your permission.”

Major Seany grinned at Lusolic and the Fludian in her office, "This is quite an offer. In the end, we would like to see dozens of races and civilizations represented here at XSS1, and open trade between them all. This transport system could be very helpful, it would definetly cut down trade time, and thus costs, which would benefit everyone."

Meanwhile..

To the Ghensia,

"You are cleared for Dock Sixtreen, we are transmitting guidance information now. Yes, you are welcome to establish an embassy here. Welcome to XSS1."

The following transmission was sent from an unknown source approximately 0230 hours ago. Included was a radio, video, and a holographic message for whichever level of technology the Xeno employed. If any visual component was added, it would feature an image of a man. He stood about five-foot eight inches, covered with a black robe. His hair, which fell down past his shoulders, was of a dark-grey color and appeared very grainy and tangled. His eyes were a deep gold, and always seemed watery as though he were to cry. The man's voice was a quaint, rich tone: like the rumbling of the waves on the sea. His tenor was of a soothing and calming quality.

"Bis Andreya," he said, "and the entirety of the Council of Twelve would like to send heart-felt thanks and joy at the prospect of continual relationships with the Xeno people. We have long been travelers of the stars, but have only contacted your species on a few occasions when a careless scout entered Polaris space."

"I must introduce myself. I am Mu'Korell: the designated Polaris Embassador, Diplomat, and Head of Trade for the Xeno. Any treaties, dealings, or other diplomatic relationships will go through me. Anything that we debate of significant importance must be rubber-stamped by a Council member or by the Bis herself."

"I would first like to thank you for providing facilities for any of our Diplomats. There will be a small staff of seven attending our quarters. All of which will be from the Mu'hari caste: Mu'Joneleth, Mu'Rande, Mu'Kepka, Mu'Sakurae, Mu'Jebith, Mu'Nilith, and, of course, myself. They will be identified by their black robes, but whatever other means of identification you require will be provided for them. The offer of discounts for food, services, and other features is graciously appreciated. However, do not fret at losing much. The Polaris, especially the Mu'hari, are a quite frugal people. Anything that is Xeno run will not loose much business. However, we must ask that such discounts will not harm any local free-market traders or other entrepreneurs. We do not want to affect their businesses in a negative way."

"I must also take this time to notify you of Standard Polaris Law regarding Alien Species. Under no circumstances is Polaris software, hardware, technology, or other form of intelligence be extracted from Polaris ships via scans, recording devices, theft, or other informational gathering techniques. Any violations of this will bring swift retrebution from the Nil'kemorya caste. I know this sounds threatening and domeneering, but do not fret. Polaris Cargoships are unarmed by Polaris law, and our ships' hulls are...different enough that scans for weapons, contraband, etc. will be non-detremental to the above accord. Our delegation will arive on a single Sprite transport vessel, though we would like permission to house a Dragon Gunboat in dock as a way to protect and aid the Xeno in defense of this facility."

"Bis Andreya has conferred with the Council of Twelve and the Krypt-tokh, with the United Tribes of the Wraith People as observers, and I have the authorization to offer the following device to be planted near XSS1. In the Days of the Old Empire which stared the Exodus of our people, there were devices known as Tradegates. These used the principle of forming a hole in space time, then folding time over and producing another hole in the desired location. In effect, think of a piece of paper with a hole on one end and a hole on the other. The Tradegate effectively folds space time to connect those two holes, like you would fold a piece of paper to connect the two punctures. The result is an instentanious transportation of mater and energy. However, there are some drawbacks: one must have another Tradegate, with the proper identification codes, in order to effectively use a Tradegate. Recently, we have completed a project known as Operation Gateworld. We have constructed two of these facilities using modern Polaris technology. The Council, therefore, has proposed to place one gate in the Polaris Homesystem of Kel'ariy and another boardering sixty-seven killometers from XSS1. In good time, more systems might be opened to this system. The controls for this gate will be co-owned by a Polaris representative and the Xeno people. They will monitor all travel to and from this gate, and shall authorize access to it via the normal trafic monitoring stations you undoubedly have on your station. This will allow Polaris traders ample, fast, access to XSS1 as well as Xeno traders to Polaris space."

"As for our Terraforming, Soil Reclamation, and Habitat Rebuilding Service, it is a possibility for Xeno scientists to be employed in the service of this: especially if we are flooded with orders. After all, we may need more than a couple dozen Tre'pira workers in order to satisfy the needs of a Planetary terraforming effort. However, this will operate as an independent company subsidized by the Polaris government. If you would like, we may start a project for you at a radically reduced cost in a token of good will. We would do such a service for free, but even a Soil Reclamation project requires enormous amounts of resources and time. Any planetary structure that you wish to be made inhabitable, or any planet currently in your dominion you wish to improve the soil quality or rebuild old destroyed habitat then we can offer you our services. I believe the going rate would be the cost of the materials required to do such a task, with labor paid for by the Polaris Government in a token of good will."

"Additionally, any Polaris traders or businessmen may confront you about government coverage of their facilities. If we could work some deal out in which Polaris citizens could present some form of identification, and their room and board will be paid for by our government, then that would be a satisfactory arrangement."

"I must say once more that it is a wonderful endeavor to begin amiable relations with your people. We hope to learn much not only about your government, but your culture, your lifestyles, your philosophies, and your people. If you accept our envoy, we shall arive aboard the Hara's Hand cargo vessel as soon as possible."

"The Polaris - the honorable castes of Mu'hari, Nil'kemorya, Tre'pira, P'aedt, Ver'ash, and Kel'ariy - extend a last greeting to the Xeno with outstretched hands. May our two people live in peace and prosperity for thousands of years. May our stars never grow cold and dark."

"And may Ory'Hara watch over you always."

+-+-+-+

The screen went dark and there were a few words:

+-+-+Sent and Recorded by Mu'Korell: Laisson to the Xeno People+-+-+

A return image would be beamed back, of Zale. A petite little woman in a neatly cut Xeno jumpsuit with rank insignia. She looks right into the camera, exuding strength and willpower,

"The discounts are slight, and are part of the agreement that merchants sign when setting up business at XSS1. The discounts are for embassy workers only, and are for vital items as opposed to luxury goods. Please let my assistant know of any special needs required by your diplomats and representitives. As for identification, government representitives are required to wear a passcard identifying themselves. This is so that one cannot pose as an official representitive of another race. Also, it would be greatly helpful of individuals carried some sort of personal identification in the event that they lose their passcard or it is stolen. This will prevent a thief from being able to steal a passcard and rack up charges on a government account.

In regard to your policy about information-gathering, we assure you that your diplomats will have their own computer and communications network that is entirely secure. The network can be accessed only in the event of an emergency, and that is by a few top-level technicians. We also have a stricy policy, that there will be no teleportation to or from the XSS1, and no data-mining. This is for security and saftey purposes. The Polaris Castes are free to dock a gunship at XSS1, but must pay docking rent unless it is part of your reserved docks. Each nation that has an embassy at XSS1 may use up to 3 docks free of charge, and they are reserved to you. (You get your own parking spot! ^.^)

As to the Tradegate, you are more than welcome to set up what you want in the system that will facilitate travel or communications. Certainly making a route of travel between your worlds and the XSS1 facility will make trade much more convient for everyone involved. The XSS1 business decks is an excellent way to show off the goods that your worlds produce.

We are setting up a network on the embassy deck now, and passwords and security information for the network made available to your representitives when they arrive. These passwords are changable, but please keep in mind that if a password is lost it requires a technician to access the database to recover it."

(Adding you to the embassy list on the front page.)

The Omar Technosect of Candle Ice hopes that you can forgive us for our former...tresspasses and allow us to set up an embassy on your station. Allowing us an embassy will allow the Technosect to interact with different races, and further Omar adaptability. We ask that you do not leave the Omar out of what could be the largest meeting place in the galaxy.

Already a large transport ship was entering the territorial space of the station. All weapons and tentacles had been ripped away, leaving it as a totally non-hostile ship. The Omar waited.
http://www.rendezvous-design.com/cdoll/Models/images/Moya/MoyaFinal041.jpg

OOC: Front page has been updated with embassies and some trade information. If you need something added, let me know.

OOC: So...?

The Omar Technosect of Candle Ice hopes that you can forgive us for our former...tresspasses and allow us to set up an embassy on your station. Allowing us an embassy will allow the Technosect to interact with different races, and further Omar adaptability. We ask that you do not leave the Omar out of what could be the largest meeting place in the galaxy.


Already a large transport ship was entering the territorial space of the station. All weapons and tentacles had been ripped away, leaving it as a totally non-hostile ship. The Omar waited.
http://www.rendezvous-design.com/cdo...yaFinal041.jpg

Admiral Stephan, the commander of XSS1 stood in the station's primary CIC, claws folded behind his back, reading over the message delivered via a communications technician minutes ago. ~Very well. We will allow it.~

A message was transmitted to the new Omar ship,
"You may dock and begin setting up an embassy. A network will be arranged for your computers and communications. Your passwords will be waiting for you."
A diplomatic package will be waiting also, with information on which three docks are reserved for the Omar.

OOC: So...?

OOC: Replied.

Excellent.
The ship is prepped to carry our technologies. Sales will begin soon.
First we must meet these aliens face to face.
The ship had docked, and Omar begun to unload "neccesities." They were quite suprised to see anyone other then themselves on "their" dock.
(I'm assuming your race is there)
Incredible.
Scans show acidic blood. A sample is needed, to further our immunity too it.
3 Omar walked up to them and the one in the center extended his hand. "So nice to finally meet you face to face. Do you mind if I scan your tissue?"

OOC: I'll post tommorow morning. I'm hitting the sack.

OOC: Roger that. :)

Major Seany grinned at Lusolic and the Fludian in her office, "This is quite an offer. In the end, we would like to see dozens of races and civilizations represented here at XSS1, and open trade between them all. This transport system could be very helpful, it would definetly cut down trade time, and thus costs, which would benefit everyone."

Lusolic'a said, "When I send for the ship to come build the local Jump Gate, I will also have a diplomat and his or her staff sent as well," he grins via his eyes as he didn't want to startle her or seem to be threatening with a smile revealing a mouthful of sharp teeth, "and I'm sure we can integrate our Palm Links (http://forums2.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=10120850&postcount=58) with the station's comm system."

CGV Dancing with Foxes

Maps recived, we shall approach and dock, we shall recive you soon.

The craft began its movement, slowy entering the space station, its long flat form slowing down as it approached the station. The Crafts approach was almost magnificant, it went on without halting, and as it approached it looked like it would simply continue smashing through and destroy the station. However, at some unknown point, the Warp-Engines halted, and the Burner Engines Suddenly engaged, the craft slowing down amazingly, to come into the dock, stopping at presisly the right moment.

The bridge, which was offset to the side, was the closest to the docks, and a section of armour opened, revealing a force-feild protected Captain ((Who was flanked by two unarmed Illetrians)). She waited for a bridge of some sort to be extended to her craft, allowing the crossing from her own craft to the Station.

Excellent.
The ship is prepped to carry our technologies. Sales will begin soon.
First we must meet these aliens face to face.
The ship had docked, and Omar begun to unload "neccesities." They were quite suprised to see anyone other then themselves on "their" dock.
(I'm assuming your race is there)
Incredible.
Scans show acidic blood. A sample is needed, to further our immunity too it.
3 Omar walked up to them and the one in the center extended his hand. "So nice to finally meet you face to face. Do you mind if I scan your tissue?"

Notably, there are four Xeno marines, three males and one female, in armor and with shouldered M1s backing the female Xeno representitive waiting at the Omar's docking bay. The young woman examined the extended hand, before reaching towards it with her own gloved hand and giving it a brief, business-like shake. "I do mind," commented firmly before continuing, "I am Lieutenant Danna, I will show you to the offices where you may set up."

Lusolic'a said, "When I send for the ship to come build the local Jump Gate, I will also have a diplomat and his or her staff sent as well," he grins via his eyes as he didn't want to startle her or seem to be threatening with a smile revealing a mouthful of sharp teeth, "and I'm sure we can integrate our Palm Links (http://forums2.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=10120850&postcount=58) with the station's comm system."

Major Seany shrugged at the part about the communications system, "I don't know much about it, really. Just that it can transmit a basic binary code that can be translated by individual electronics. That's so it's compatible with just about anything that other civilizations bring onboard the XSS1." As to the sharp teeth, well, Lusolic hasn't seen a male smile yet. It involved -two- sets of sharp teeth.

The craft began its movement, slowy entering the space station, its long flat form slowing down as it approached the station. The Crafts approach was almost magnificant, it went on without halting, and as it approached it looked like it would simply continue smashing through and destroy the station. However, at some unknown point, the Warp-Engines halted, and the Burner Engines Suddenly engaged, the craft slowing down amazingly, to come into the dock, stopping at presisly the right moment.

The bridge, which was offset to the side, was the closest to the docks, and a section of armour opened, revealing a force-feild protected Captain ((Who was flanked by two unarmed Illetrians)). She waited for a bridge of some sort to be extended to her craft, allowing the crossing from her own craft to the Station.

The automatic docking system sensed the proximity and a skybridge was extended a few meters to form a docking seal with the ship. Moments later, blast hatches on both ends slid open to reveal a trio of Xenos standing at the XSS1 end of the corridor. Two big male marines, and a female representitive. The Xenos seemed to prefer females as representitives, as they appear human. It put people at ease, usually. Major Zale gave a salute. "Welcome to the XSS1 facility," before offering a packet containing various vital information.

Space could be a nasty place. Possibilities of encounters rise as you leave the safety of your own space, such as Pirates and other things. Its one of those nearly unheard-of problems these days, mainly because its so easily taken care of. But, when it isn't, it usually brings two peoples together for the first time. This is perhaps one of those cases. Afterall, what would a Galactic Republic be without exploring so far from home?

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Space distorted in a specific area near the XSS1 Space Station, nothing spectacular or amazing, hardly noticable at first. However, a few moments later the ripple effect increased, followed by a growing light that seemed to emerge from a door-way. Bolts of Particles shot forth as the distortion formed into a clearer shape, followed by a brighter effect of bluish white. The bolts increased their shots into space as the distortion started to take shape of what could be made out as a ship. Then, seconds later, a bright flash of white light...and a ship comfortably sat in the space that was the distortion.

It was nothing spectacular, just a Pocket Battleship on patrol. It had a few marks on its hull, even some damaged areas, but otherwise it remained intact. Clearly visible as a assault ship from the array of weapons that were placed on her hull, but noticably silent seeing as most of the turrets refrained from moving with the scans.

The only thing that was truthfully noticable was a few flares of sorts erupting from the ships hull in places damaged, signaling a previous engagement. Immedietly following that, a message could have been easily recieved by the station.

Incoming Transmission from the APBS Cataclysm

This is the Anagonian Pocket battleship Cataclysm from the Anagonian Second Fleet. We were on patrol and encountered heavy pirate activity in Sector 0-5-23. Have taken significant damage, request permission for emergency docking

Message End


OOC:

Clicky and Scroll to the bottom for Pocket battleship image (http://hawk.proboards1.com/index.cgi?board=Military&action=display&thread=1103679193)

EDIT:

You have MSN or anything? Like to talk.

Space could be a nasty place. Possibilities of encounters rise as you leave the safety of your own space, such as Pirates and other things. Its one of those nearly unheard-of problems these days, mainly because its so easily taken care of. But, when it isn't, it usually brings two peoples together for the first time. This is perhaps one of those cases. Afterall, what would a Galactic Republic be without exploring so far from home?

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Space distorted in a specific area near the XSS1 Space Station, nothing spectacular or amazing, hardly noticable at first. However, a few moments later the ripple effect increased, followed by a growing light that seemed to emerge from a door-way. Bolts of Particles shot forth as the distortion formed into a clearer shape, followed by a brighter effect of bluish white. The bolts increased their shots into space as the distortion started to take shape of what could be made out as a ship. Then, seconds later, a bright flash of white light...and a ship comfortably sat in the space that was the distortion.

It was nothing spectacular, just a Pocket Battleship on patrol. It had a few marks on its hull, even some damaged areas, but otherwise it remained intact. Clearly visible as a assault ship from the array of weapons that were placed on her hull, but noticably silent seeing as most of the turrets refrained from moving with the scans.

The only thing that was truthfully noticable was a few flares of sorts erupting from the ships hull in places damaged, signaling a previous engagement. Immedietly following that, a message could have been easily recieved by the station.

Incoming Transmission from the APBS Cataclysm

This is the Anagonian Pocket battleship Cataclysm from the Anagonian Second Fleet. We were on patrol and encountered heavy pirate activity in Sector 0-5-23. Have taken significant damage, request permission for emergency docking

Message End


OOC:

Clicky and Scroll to the bottom for Pocket battleship image (http://hawk.proboards1.com/index.cgi?board=Military&action=display&thread=1103679193)

EDIT:

You have MSN or anything? Like to talk.

The XSS1's emergency crew began to deploy, two rescue shuttles slipping free of the station while the signals department handled the reply,

"Acknowledged, Cataclysm. If you are able to, please enter Drydock Two. We are sending you guidance information now. Rescue and medical teams are on stand-by. If you need a tow, please let one of the rescue craft know."

The rescue craft would of course be the emergency shuttles making their way out to escort the Cataclysm in to drydock. There are several medical teams waiting, and firefighting crews stand at the drydock's bridge hatch, ready to board and help with problems as needed.

The Xeno battleship Pennsylvania drifted in to protectively watch over the Cataclysm's flight path, on watch for signs of the reported pirates. The Xeno aren't the type to let a wounded ship get finished off in their sector.

OOC: MSN xeno_warmachine@hotmail.com

Out of hyperspace burst a Praetorian exploration cruiser. The Thrashian vessel Defiance held on it a full team of scientists, soldiers, merchants, and embassadors. Captain Valkir stood on the bridge and viewed the new arrangement of stars that appeared before them.

"Comm Scan, I want a report on the area," ordered the aged and grizzled captain. A young ensign nodded and began working at his controls.

Lieutenant Creel marched forward. "Sir, comm scan reports the presence of several different vessels within a 400 kilometers perimeter. According to out data banks, their signals match those of vessels from Seaquest and other various nations."

"Understood, get me a list or transcript of the number of different nationalities, anything else?" asked Valkir.

"Yes sir, we've detected a large in-space station. According to the signals it is sending, it is apparently neutral territory of sorts," said Creel. Valkir turned.

"Neutral?"

"Apparently sir."

"Get us a hailing signal, see if we can dock for supplies...this could be very interesting," said Valkir. "Send the normal transmission report back to home. Same codes."

"Yes sir."


Open Transmission
Praetorian Cruiser Defiance

"Attention XSS1 Space Station. This is the Thrashian exploration cruiser Defiance requesting to dock for supplies and repairs. As well as the opertunity to investigate your claims of being a neutral station."

End

Out of hyperspace burst a Praetorian exploration cruiser. The Thrashian vessel Defiance held on it a full team of scientists, soldiers, merchants, and embassadors. Captain Valkir stood on the bridge and viewed the new arrangement of stars that appeared before them.

"Comm Scan, I want a report on the area," ordered the aged and grizzled captain. A young ensign nodded and began working at his controls.

Lieutenant Creel marched forward. "Sir, comm scan reports the presence of several different vessels within a 400 kilometers perimeter. According to out data banks, their signals match those of vessels from Seaquest and other various nations."

"Understood, get me a list or transcript of the number of different nationalities, anything else?" asked Valkir.

"Yes sir, we've detected a large in-space station. According to the signals it is sending, it is apparently neutral territory of sorts," said Creel. Valkir turned.

"Neutral?"

"Apparently sir."

"Get us a hailing signal, see if we can dock for supplies...this could be very interesting," said Valkir. "Send the normal transmission report back to home. Same codes."

"Yes sir."


Open Transmission
Praetorian Cruiser Defiance

"Attention XSS1 Space Station. This is the Thrashian exploration cruiser Defiance requesting to dock for supplies and repairs. As well as the opertunity to investigate your claims of being a neutral station."

End

To the Defiance,

"Signal acknowledged. You are cleared for Dock Two, sending terminal guidance information now. Enjoy your stay at the XSS1 facility."

And a transmission would be sent in basic code, with a little roadmap of the station and where Dock Two can be found at. Automatic docking systems will sense ships and extend a station-keeping skybridge to whichever docking hatch the visitors line up and allow them to maintain contact with the XSS1.

No matter. We will simply purchase a body later.
"Affirmative. We shall follow you to our embassy." Three more Omar, each having a P.P.G rifle slung across their back joined the party. "We hope you do not mind if armed Omar Protectors accompany us. We are concerned for our safety."
Scan complete. In a confratation, odds are 2:1 that we will survive.
Excellent.

After monitoring you, we would like to open both an embassy and a market.
We will be sending a empathic diplomat ambassador. The market will be selling everything sold in optischer.

In case it is classed as a drug, chemical controllers will be held until authorisation is passed on them, as they suppress emotions.

The XSS1's emergency crew began to deploy, two rescue shuttles slipping free of the station while the signals department handled the reply,

"Acknowledged, Cataclysm. If you are able to, please enter Drydock Two. We are sending you guidance information now. Rescue and medical teams are on stand-by. If you need a tow, please let one of the rescue craft know."

The rescue craft would of course be the emergency shuttles making their way out to escort the Cataclysm in to drydock. There are several medical teams waiting, and firefighting crews stand at the drydock's bridge hatch, ready to board and help with problems as needed.

The Xeno battleship Pennsylvania drifted in to protectively watch over the Cataclysm's flight path, on watch for signs of the reported pirates. The Xeno aren't the type to let a wounded ship get finished off in their sector.

Captain Ustumar had seen a lot in his experience with pirates, but nothing like what happened. Originally, his ship was a part of a small task force. However, with what happened, they only had seconds to react. From what he saw, most of the task force sub-spaced, although the Admirals ship seemed to take its time. A soft sigh, Admiral made a good call though. He just hoped he got out.

A slight gaze to his second-in-command, and a few of the ships technicians who were attempting to repair the damaged bridge. Some crew were currently assisting injured to the medical bays. Suprise attacks usually get these kinds of results, expect worse. They got lucky, and Ustumar knew it.

Commander Richard Furk had handed Ustumar a pad, he gazing it over before responding to everything.

"Lets tell them we'll need a tow. We had to shut most reactors because of breach worries anyway. Won't be any use to tred along in space."

Richard nodded, and went to the comm panel quickly.

Transmission fron the APBS Cataclysm

We will need a tow. Most of our reactors are shot for the moment, and it would be useless to activate the engines at this point. We were cought off guard back there.

transmission end

To XSS1: Optischer's ambassodrial ship is ready to dock. We have the empathic diplomat on board, and are preparing to set up embassy and market. Two of our finest salesmen arwe onboard and are requesting knowledge on the legality of advertising. We await your reply.

No matter. We will simply purchase a body later.
"Affirmative. We shall follow you to our embassy." Three more Omar, each having a P.P.G rifle slung across their back joined the party. "We hope you do not mind if armed Omar Protectors accompany us. We are concerned for our safety."
Scan complete. In a confratation, odds are 2:1 that we will survive.
Excellent.

The young Lieutenant turned and wandered out of the bay with the Omar representitives in tow, the Marines following. "You should be. One does not attack a Xeno shuttle and get away with it often. Fortunetly Captain Marthe has restraint." And down several elevators they went to the embassy deck and the offices that the Omar can use. She hands over a packet containing the personalized security codes for that office's network. "Is there anything else?"

Xeno, we are waiting to borad the station and setup an embassy and market. Plase respond.

To XSS1: Optischer's ambassodrial ship is ready to dock. We have the empathic diplomat on board, and are preparing to set up embassy and market. Two of our finest salesmen arwe onboard and are requesting knowledge on the legality of advertising. We await your reply.

The automatic docking system senses the presence of the ship, and a sky bridge with docking ring extends to lock it into place. The sensors indicate that it is a safe lock, and blast hatches at either end of the tube open up. Inside the XSS1 end of the sky bridge is a female Xeno representitive flanked by a pair of Marines. "Welcome to the XSS1 facility." She turns, and the trio will escort them to the embassy deck. "As to the advertising, the XSS1 facility has a satellite network for holo-television. It has several channels for advertising. Also, market information may be found on the XSS1's public service network via computer. Everyone can be represented fairly and equally. In that, we show no favortism."

Meanwhile..

Orbit
To the Cataclysm,
"Acknowledged. Our rescue craft will be docking with you shortly."

And the two shuttles will find hatches on the Cataclysm and dock there, offloading several medical and fire-rescue teams to help with the problems onboard. These are made up of both sexes, the human-appearing females and the Xeno males.

Once the teams have been offloaded, the shuttles drift towards the front and back of the Cataclysm where EVA specialized Xeno battle armor is released. The black-armored Xeno float through space, using boosters to manuver in the zero gravity. They attack meter-wide metallic plates to the hull of the ship, then run cables to U-rings in the plates that lead to the shuttles.

With one shuttle in the front and one in the back, the Xenos apply power to the engines, and over time the powerful little craft begin to slowly push the bulk of the warship forward, carefully guiding it to a drydock. It takes time, but eventually a skybridge is attached to a hatch on the Cataclysm, and more rescue teams begin to board. Wounded will be carried out and immedietly taken to a medical bay.

Xeno, we are waiting to borad the station and setup an embassy and market. Plase respond.

OOC: Patience. :p

The young Lieutenant turned and wandered out of the bay with the Omar representitives in tow, the Marines following. "You should be. One does not attack a Xeno shuttle and get away with it often. Fortunetly Captain Marthe has restraint." And down several elevators they went to the embassy deck and the offices that the Omar can use. She hands over a packet containing the personalized security codes for that office's network. "Is there anything else?"
Hostiltity.
Proceed with caution.
"Your hostility is uneeded. Please modify your behavior. We do have one question however: If we sold goods from our embassy, will we be taxed?"

Hostiltity.
Proceed with caution.
"Your hostility is uneeded. Please modify your behavior. We do have one question however: If we sold goods from our embassy, will we be taxed?

She shook her head, long pony tail swishing down her spine. "Negative. We do not tax goods sold at the markets. Although it cost a sizable sum to build the XSS1 station and maintain it, we feel that we can cover most of the costs by charging small docking and service fees. We are considering a small lease fee for areas on the market and business decks, but haven't made the decision yet."

Excellent.
"Excellent. If we are correct, we have 3 docks under our control?"

The Lieutenant nodded. "Yes, the information is contained in the packet I gave you. Please note, weapons of mass destruction on warships must be dearmed before they approach any closer than thirty thousand kilometers of this facility."

"Of course. The Omar appreciate your bussiness. A discount of 50% will be applied to all transactions."

"That is up for your government to decide, and its own choice. Please keep in mind that this is a free market, established so that all governments and planets can keep in touch and exchange goods."

OOC: Front page updated with embassys and markets, as well as basic rules.

The automatic docking system senses the presence of the ship, and a sky bridge with docking ring extends to lock it into place. The sensors indicate that it is a safe lock, and blast hatches at either end of the tube open up. Inside the XSS1 end of the sky bridge is a female Xeno representitive flanked by a pair of Marines. "Welcome to the XSS1 facility." She turns, and the trio will escort them to the embassy deck. "As to the advertising, the XSS1 facility has a satellite network for holo-television. It has several channels for advertising. Also, market information may be found on the XSS1's public service network via computer. Everyone can be represented fairly and equally. In that, we show no favortism."

Meanwhile..

Orbit
To the Cataclysm,


And the two shuttles will find hatches on the Cataclysm and dock there, offloading several medical and fire-rescue teams to help with the problems onboard. These are made up of both sexes, the human-appearing females and the Xeno males.

Once the teams have been offloaded, the shuttles drift towards the front and back of the Cataclysm where EVA specialized Xeno battle armor is released. The black-armored Xeno float through space, using boosters to manuver in the zero gravity. They attack meter-wide metallic plates to the hull of the ship, then run cables to U-rings in the plates that lead to the shuttles.

With one shuttle in the front and one in the back, the Xenos apply power to the engines, and over time the powerful little craft begin to slowly push the bulk of the warship forward, carefully guiding it to a drydock. It takes time, but eventually a skybridge is attached to a hatch on the Cataclysm, and more rescue teams begin to board. Wounded will be carried out and immedietly taken to a medical bay.

The Xeno teams would have noticed immedietly the Seven foot tall Komodren species of Anagonia, looking more like humanoid Komodo Dragons. These sleek and sometimes muscular lizard men could occasionally give a nasty look, but otherwise provide a respectful bow to those not known. A warrior species by heart, even the females are included in all activities presented in such lifestyles. Although, one must admit, the females are very well defined for such a species.

The same goes for the second specific race, Delphinians. A Humanoid Dolphin race of beings which look sleek and beautiful to either sexes, although the females are still defined as their respected sex. However, as with Komodren, both sexes enjoy the fact of having fair participation in all activities. Although a Xeno or two may be suprised to find out that Delphinians contact telepathically.

The last noticable race onboard any Anagonian ship would be Humans, of course. A nice bunch of all races, somewhat uneven in the fact that Humans are almost out numbered. Either way, however, the docking was greeting with much respect and many bows. They had just been through on helluva shock afterall, so why wouldn't they be glad to see another foreign power allow them aid? Nevertheless, an Anagonian Marine or two would definitley be watching from a distance any Xeno, although trusting to Neutral parties, they still had a ship to watch for.

But most marines were concentrating on their wounded, as was the Commander of the Marine contigent on the Cataclysm.

Master Chief Daniel "Diablo" Norton had seen many a boarding party engage his assigned ships before, but nothing like what happened. It was hell trying to keep the lines from breaking, hell trying to keep his Comrades alive. Somehow they managed it, somehow they escaped. He wasn't none too pleased with having fled, of course, but otherwise he enjoyed the fact that his men were alive, and the ship was safe.

Having on his Mandalorian Scout armor accustomed to any Marine of Anagonia, a coloration of red signifying his Command abilities, he walked beside a green-armored Marine who he had a nice chat with back in the elevator. Apparently, he had a friend in the thought of wanting to kill those bastards, all of them.

With a slight nodHe would go onboard the Xeno station with his Comrade beside him, he hoped to start discussions on what to do and what he could possibly do to help the situation.

The Xeno teams would have noticed immedietly the Seven foot tall Komodren species of Anagonia, looking more like humanoid Komodo Dragons. These sleek and sometimes muscular lizard men could occasionally give a nasty look, but otherwise provide a respectful bow to those not known. A warrior species by heart, even the females are included in all activities presented in such lifestyles. Although, one must admit, the females are very well defined for such a species.

The same goes for the second specific race, Delphinians. A Humanoid Dolphin race of beings which look sleek and beautiful to either sexes, although the females are still defined as their respected sex. However, as with Komodren, both sexes enjoy the fact of having fair participation in all activities. Although a Xeno or two may be suprised to find out that Delphinians contact telepathically.

The last noticable race onboard any Anagonian ship would be Humans, of course. A nice bunch of all races, somewhat uneven in the fact that Humans are almost out numbered. Either way, however, the docking was greeting with much respect and many bows. They had just been through on helluva shock afterall, so why wouldn't they be glad to see another foreign power allow them aid? Nevertheless, an Anagonian Marine or two would definitley be watching from a distance any Xeno, although trusting to Neutral parties, they still had a ship to watch for.

But most marines were concentrating on their wounded, as was the Commander of the Marine contigent on the Cataclysm.

Master Chief Daniel "Diablo" Norton had seen many a boarding party engage his assigned ships before, but nothing like what happened. It was hell trying to keep the lines from breaking, hell trying to keep his Comrades alive. Somehow they managed it, somehow they escaped. He wasn't none too pleased with having fled, of course, but otherwise he enjoyed the fact that his men were alive, and the ship was safe.

Having on his Mandalorian Scout armor accustomed to any Marine of Anagonia, a coloration of red signifying his Command abilities, he walked beside a green-armored Marine who he had a nice chat with back in the elevator. Apparently, he had a friend in the thought of wanting to kill those bastards, all of them.

With a slight nodHe would go onboard the Xeno station with his Comrade beside him, he hoped to start discussions on what to do and what he could possibly do to help the situation.

The male Xenos were mostly around six and a half to seven feet tall, with a scattering of those beyond seven feet, but not many. The scientist caste isn't bred for their size. The females are representitive of humans, ranging from petite little women, to taller rangy ones. The females look very human.

Injured were carted off on stretchers and little golfcart type vehicles designed to get about in the wide hallways of the XSS1 station. Off to the medical bay they would go, where the lightly injured could be treated after the seriously injured got put into beds, and the worse among them into enclosed ICU units. Even those with what might seem like mortal wounds were placed into the ICUs, where they would be drugged into unconsciencness and their bodies hooked up to sophisticated, alien looking devices. Their bodies would be coated with a layer of thick black liquid, and they would be left to regenerate the damage.

The chief scientist among them, a somewhat grayish Xeno scurried about among the activity, broadcasting orders, ~This one is critical, take her to ICU ward two. This one can wait, it's just an eye.~ noted about one man clutching a bloody socket. That can be replaced later, when things have settled down.

Standing outside of the medical ward with her arms folded over her chest was a dark-haired woman, her expression sour as she watched the wounded being treated, "I hope Admiral Stephan has some ships on alert. If those pirates follow them in, there could be trouble," noted to a lanky male Xeno beside her, who nodded slowly in agreement.

Outside, EVA specialized Xeno Marines scour the surface of the Cataclysm for missiles that may have struck but didn't explode, or undetonated mines or explosives.

"Signal acknowledged. You are cleared for Dock Two, sending terminal guidance information now. Enjoy your stay at the XSS1 facility."

"Copy that XSS1 control, we're making our approach now."

The large cruiser sped forward into space, noting the activity going on near it. It was clearly a rescue operation. Valkir ignored it. It wasn't part of his mission.

The ship came to the specified dock, and successfully attatched without incident. Valkir, two embassadors, and a squad of stormtroopers marched down into the awaiting station.

"Copy that XSS1 control, we're making our approach now."

The large cruiser sped forward into space, noting the activity going on near it. It was clearly a rescue operation. Valkir ignored it. It wasn't part of his mission.

The ship came to the specified dock, and successfully attatched without incident. Valkir, two embassadors, and a squad of stormtroopers marched down into the awaiting station.

As usual, a female Xeno representitive stood waiting, flanked by a pair of Xeno marines. She gave a salute, "Welcome to the XSS1. According to my information here, you are looking to establish basic contact with the Xeno, and our facility?" Asked with a glance to her handheld.

Kanis took the infomation...plugging it into the small drone that was attached to her wrist. The Drone ((Named "Horan Ton")) uploaded the infomation, taking note of all of it before transmitting what was needed to the Captain.

She moved forward, her Two Illetrians following ((Even unarmed, their massive three meter Tripedal form was imposing)). They continued forward, and then the Captain bowed from the waist.

"I am honoured to be here." She said quite softly.

Kanis took the infomation...plugging it into the small drone that was attached to her wrist. The Drone ((Named "Horan Ton")) uploaded the infomation, taking note of all of it before transmitting what was needed to the Captain.

She moved forward, her Two Illetrians following ((Even unarmed, their massive three meter Tripedal form was imposing)). They continued forward, and then the Captain bowed from the waist.

"I am honoured to be here." She said quite softly.

OOC: Assuming by now they have docked with XSS1,

The Xeno representitive waiting on the station gave a salute, stepping forward and offering the 'welcome package', a docket with various information on proceedure and rules for the facility. "Welcome to the XSS1. How may I help you?"

The ambassador and her two marketeers made their way to the embassy.
"Right. Start selling as soon as possible. You've got lists of what to buy, what you've got to sell, buying prices, selling prices and 100,000 units each. Get as many datapads as possible. Don't bother if they've been wiped. Go!"

OOC: Interesting idea.

Message from: The Galactic Empire of Huntaer
To: The XSS1 Space Station
****Uploading holo-link****
****Link Established****
(Holographic voice recording begins)
We wish to set up an embassy here to further learn more about your nation. We shall be sending an ambassador, as well as 5 HK droid series to serve as protocall droids.

*****End Transmission*****



Message From: The Star Forge Store Fronts
To: The XSS1 Space Station
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****Link Established****

Greetings from the front desk of the famous Star Froge Store Fronts. As the administor of these fine store fronts, I wish to set up markets as well as an additional Star Forge Hospital here as well. There will be three stores set up (one for each opporating store front). We appreciate your time.


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OOC: If you need links, they are in my sig.

The SeaQuest Jump Gate activated and a Tidani Diplomatic Frigate exited the vortex. It glided toward the massive station buzzing with activity.

XSS1 Station, this is Tidani Diplomatic Frigate 253. The Republic has sent us to investigate the importance of this station and establish an embassy.

XSS1 Station, this is Tidani Diplomatic Frigate 253. The Republic has sent us to investigate the importance of this station and establish an embassy.


Reply,
"This is the XSS1 facility. You are welcome to go to Dock Fourty-Two and visit the embassy deck."

OOC: Interesting idea.

Message from: The Galactic Empire of Huntaer
To: The XSS1 Space Station
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****Link Established****
(Holographic voice recording begins)
We wish to set up an embassy here to further learn more about your nation. We shall be sending an ambassador, as well as 5 HK droid series to serve as protocall droids.

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Message From: The Star Forge Store Fronts
To: The XSS1 Space Station
****Uploading Audio Message Only****
****Link Established****

Greetings from the front desk of the famous Star Froge Store Fronts. As the administor of these fine store fronts, I wish to set up markets as well as an additional Star Forge Hospital here as well. There will be three stores set up (one for each opporating store front). We appreciate your time.


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OOC: If you need links, they are in my sig.

Short reply to both,
Permission granted to establish an embassy and markets on the trade decks. Please seek information once you have arrived.
(Adding info to the front page)

Captain Evan Harper disembarked his ship via the boarding ramp. Two armed marines followed him. Marching quite intensely he began up the corridors to the administration section. Bursting in, he said;
"Hello, I would like to apply for an embassy."

<<OUT IN SPACE......>>

There was a shimmer, and for a second, the image of an Arian Class Battlecruiser appeared. It then shimmered and futtered and dissapeared again.

Captain Alexa Dexin smacked her hand on the wrist of her seat.
"Why is our cloak dropping??"
"The attack we made on the terrorists caused damage to the reactor, we can't generate enough energy to hold it."
"Damnit How is the rest of the fleet doing?"
"The rest of the fleet ma'am is doing fine. All thirty ships are holding their cloaks fine."
"Excellent." She said.

The male Xenos were mostly around six and a half to seven feet tall, with a scattering of those beyond seven feet, but not many. The scientist caste isn't bred for their size. The females are representitive of humans, ranging from petite little women, to taller rangy ones. The females look very human.

Injured were carted off on stretchers and little golfcart type vehicles designed to get about in the wide hallways of the XSS1 station. Off to the medical bay they would go, where the lightly injured could be treated after the seriously injured got put into beds, and the worse among them into enclosed ICU units. Even those with what might seem like mortal wounds were placed into the ICUs, where they would be drugged into unconsciencness and their bodies hooked up to sophisticated, alien looking devices. Their bodies would be coated with a layer of thick black liquid, and they would be left to regenerate the damage.

The chief scientist among them, a somewhat grayish Xeno scurried about among the activity, broadcasting orders, ~This one is critical, take her to ICU ward two. This one can wait, it's just an eye.~ noted about one man clutching a bloody socket. That can be replaced later, when things have settled down.

Standing outside of the medical ward with her arms folded over her chest was a dark-haired woman, her expression sour as she watched the wounded being treated, "I hope Admiral Stephan has some ships on alert. If those pirates follow them in, there could be trouble," noted to a lanky male Xeno beside her, who nodded slowly in agreement.

Outside, EVA specialized Xeno Marines scour the surface of the Cataclysm for missiles that may have struck but didn't explode, or undetonated mines or explosives.

Daniel Norton had taken a brief examination of the facility for himself, even walked around after not having much of a success finding someone to talk to. Finally, however, he stood at the entrance to the facilities medical bay, looking forward to checking in on his men. It was his duty, afterall, to esnure that every Marine made it back home alive. If not that, then back home to rest for eternity.

He gazed about, hoping someone would spot his intrusion, or curious look-in.

Captain Evan Harper disembarked his ship via the boarding ramp. Two armed marines followed him. Marching quite intensely he began up the corridors to the administration section. Bursting in, he said;
"Hello, I would like to apply for an embassy."

<<OUT IN SPACE......>>

There was a shimmer, and for a second, the image of an Arian Class Battlecruiser appeared. It then shimmered and futtered and dissapeared again.

Captain Alexa Dexin smacked her hand on the wrist of her seat.
"Why is our cloak dropping??"
"The attack we made on the terrorists caused damage to the reactor, we can't generate enough energy to hold it."
"Damnit How is the rest of the fleet doing?"
"The rest of the fleet ma'am is doing fine. All thirty ships are holding their cloaks fine."
"Excellent." She said.

The officer behind the front desk at the administration office passed across a folder with various paperwork. "You need to fill this out."

Daniel Norton had taken a brief examination of the facility for himself, even walked around after not having much of a success finding someone to talk to. Finally, however, he stood at the entrance to the facilities medical bay, looking forward to checking in on his men. It was his duty, afterall, to esnure that every Marine made it back home alive. If not that, then back home to rest for eternity.

He gazed about, hoping someone would spot his intrusion, or curious look-in.

No one seemed to take particular note. He sensed that his presence was tolerated, known, but not directly objected to. Teams of EMTs continued to bring in and shuffle about the wounded, getting everything situated in a speedy sort of way. Those with lighter injuries are taken to a science lab, where their wounds can be treated, while those with priority problems occupy the actual medical ward. The burn unit is particularly busy.

Bumpage.

No one seemed to take particular note. He sensed that his presence was tolerated, known, but not directly objected to. Teams of EMTs continued to bring in and shuffle about the wounded, getting everything situated in a speedy sort of way. Those with lighter injuries are taken to a science lab, where their wounds can be treated, while those with priority problems occupy the actual medical ward. The burn unit is particularly busy.

Daniel nodded approvingly. Even though his presence wasn't taken into conversation, he did sense that he was noticed. To him, that ment that his marines were being taken care of properly, none being ignored. This would add well to the report he had planned to file. He was about to leave these Xeno's be, when he heard someone call his name.

"Master Chief," came a voice from somewhere to his right. "Diablo, hey!"

He looked and saw a familiar face. Lieutenant Orion Ha'Goth, a Komodren he knew very well through some intensive battles. Some minor broken bones, from the looks of things. The last he heard of Orion during the attack was him going towards one of now-severely damaged areas to assist medical teams.

In all seriousness, Daniel was glad to see him alive. And with that feeling, he went and sat beside him on his bed.

"How you doing kid," asked Daniel, "thought you died back there."

Orion chuckled, war-experienced veterans always watched out for those just learning the fields, even if they were older. "I'm fine Sir, just had a run-in with an explosion. Apparently, the explosion won."

They both managed a laugh, knowing all too well such run-ins. With a sigh, Daniel took his helment off, revealing his war-hardening human face to the Lieutenant. "Yea, explosions tend to be bastards in that area."

"Yea," Orion had forgotton what Diablo looked like, somewhat of a suprise to see his helmet off. But he should get to reassuring the Chief, knowing all too well his drive to correct things. "These people are great, been taking care of us well sir."

Thats all Daniel needed to hear, Orions tone, though deep as any Komodren's, exposed the truth in his words. "Good, I was planning on writing a good report to command on these people. Would like to talk to one, but, their busy." He managed a smile, which was quite small seeing as he never smiled much.

"I'm sure one of them would be around soon enough, but, Chief?"

Daniel had looked away, but returned his gaze on Orion. "What is it Lieutenant?"

"These Xeno's are good, nothin to fear from'em."

"Duely noted, Lieutenant. Duely noted."

With that, Daniel put back on his helmet, giving a proper pat on the shoulder to Orion, and starting towards the door. His feeling was he could trust these people, especially seeing as they put such a good impression one of his most trusted marines.

Norton nearly ran straight into a mountain of Xeno exoskeleton and muscle. This Xeno towered well into seven feet in height, and a set of etchings along his left collarbone, like tattoos denoted rank and commendations. Many.. many commendations. Here and there on his form, scars, darker than the rest of him, showed that he's seen plenty of fighting.

The huge Xeno looked down at Daniel Norton, glossy eyes unblinking. ~Do you find everything to your approval, Master Chief?~ Transmitted rather politely into the fellow's minds. The Xeno are telepathic, remember.

"I am here on behalf of Contact, Part of the Remnant Empire of Lessir Tsurani's Service. Contact is designed to encounter and control negotiations and relations between the Empire and other nations." She looked at her. "We are to extend an offer to join the Empire as Citizens for all your people, while making trade arrangements and such for you."

"I am here on behalf of Contact, Part of the Remnant Empire of Lessir Tsurani's Service. Contact is designed to encounter and control negotiations and relations between the Empire and other nations." She looked at her. "We are to extend an offer to join the Empire as Citizens for all your people, while making trade arrangements and such for you."

The representitive looked around, frowning. "That would violate both our neutrality, and our soverignity." The woman didn't comment that such an offer was a rather big insult, but rather gestured towards a marked corridor, "If you follow me, I will take you to the administration office for setting up an embassy and market."

Norton nearly ran straight into a mountain of Xeno exoskeleton and muscle. This Xeno towered well into seven feet in height, and a set of etchings along his left collarbone, like tattoos denoted rank and commendations. Many.. many commendations. Here and there on his form, scars, darker than the rest of him, showed that he's seen plenty of fighting.

The huge Xeno looked down at Daniel Norton, glossy eyes unblinking. ~Do you find everything to your approval, Master Chief?~ Transmitted rather politely into the fellow's minds. The Xeno are telepathic, remember.

Daniel nearly had a heart attack when he saw the Xeno standing before him, instively reaching for a weapon which he didn't find. A milisecond later. his mind realized the situation, and his quick reaction turned into his hand seemingly whipping his chest. Hopefully, he didn't see how he almost reached for a weapon.

His mind heard the voice, not of his own. He had been around many a Delphinian, and seeing as their telepathic is was nothing of a suprise. He nodded hearing the polite words.

"Very much," he responded, "and I am very pleased with your quick response. A very good report I intend to extend to Marine Command."

Then he realized this could be a person to talk to, and he ;eaned against the wall. "I suppose you wouldn't be up for some talks? One warrior-" gazing at his markings and bulkness and taking off his helmet "-to another?"

Daniel nearly had a heart attack when he saw the Xeno standing before him, instively reaching for a weapon which he didn't find. A milisecond later. his mind realized the situation, and his quick reaction turned into his hand seemingly whipping his chest. Hopefully, he didn't see how he almost reached for a weapon.

His mind heard the voice, not of his own. He had been around many a Delphinian, and seeing as their telepathic is was nothing of a suprise. He nodded hearing the polite words.

"Very much," he responded, "and I am very pleased with your quick response. A very good report I intend to extend to Marine Command."

Then he realized this could be a person to talk to, and he ;eaned against the wall. "I suppose you wouldn't be up for some talks? One warrior-" gazing at his markings and bulkness and taking off his helmet "-to another?"

The big Xeno tapped a talon against one of the etchings on his collarbone, an odd little symbol, almost like a planet with a set of wings, and an anchor over it. ~One Marine to another. I am Captain Garth, commander of the 1st Marine Division. The Marines aboard this facility are under my command, part of the 3rd Marine Batallion. The other two Batallions are on duty elsewhere.~ He seemed open enough to discussion.

Daniel bowed his head in respect to his Brethren Marine before him, and exposed his unit as a show of honor.

"Master Chief Daniel Norton, callsign 'Diablo'. I'm in command and attached to the Cataclysm Marine Detachment, APBS-044 in the Anagonian Space Fleet."

Daniel extended a hand to his Brethren Marine. "Captain Garth, its a pleasure to meet you."

Daniel bowed his head in respect to his Brethren Marine before him, and exposed his unit as a show of honor.

"Master Chief Daniel Norton, callsign 'Diablo'. I'm in command and attached to the Cataclysm Marine Detachment, APBS-044 in the Anagonian Space Fleet."

Daniel extended a hand to his Brethren Marine. "Captain Garth, its a pleasure to meet you."

The man's hand was swallowed up by that of Xeno. A brief, crushing shake before he released it and turned to walk down the corridor, looking over his shoulder once to make sure the fellow was following. ~Diablo~ noted, ~You are not proud of your real name, Master Chief?~ A sense of curiousity in that question.

With a flash of white light, the 500 meter cruiser Scharnhorst (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v73/Jadeite/Nationstates/v36.jpg) popped into existence.

Kapitän Mikael Howe stared for a few seconds at the bulk of the station on his display as his ship slowly approached it. With a wave of his hand, he motioned for the leutnant at the bridge's communication station to begin transmitting.

"Station XSS1, this is the cruiser Scharnhorst requesting permission to dock for resupply, rest, and recreational purposes."

Howe rotated his seat to face back toward the Marine oberstleutnant who commanded the ship's battalion of marines.

"Have your men make themselves ready, we don't know what type of reception might be meeting us."

The officer saluted, "Yes Sir. I will alert my company commanders at once."

With a flash of white light, the 500 meter cruiser Scharnhorst (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v73/Jadeite/Nationstates/v36.jpg) popped into existence.

Kapitän Mikael Howe stared for a few seconds at the bulk of the station on his display as his ship slowly approached it. With a wave of his hand, he motioned for the leutnant at the bridge's communication station to begin transmitting.

"Station XSS1, this is the cruiser Scharnhorst requesting permission to dock for resupply, rest, and recreational purposes."

Howe rotated his seat to face back toward the Marine oberstleutnant who commanded the ship's battalion of marines.

"Have your men make themselves ready, we don't know what type of reception might be meeting us."

The officer saluted, "Yes Sir. I will alert my company commanders at once."

Reply,

"Acknowleged, Scharnhorst. You are cleared to Dock Sixty Six, sending guidance information now."

The man's hand was swallowed up by that of Xeno. A brief, crushing shake before he released it and turned to walk down the corridor, looking over his shoulder once to make sure the fellow was following. ~Diablo~ noted, ~You are not proud of your real name, Master Chief?~ A sense of curiousity in that question.

Daniel was suprised by how large the Xen's palm was, but even feeling a crushing weight, he continued the shake till the end. Afterward, he secretly shook his hand and let a silent "Whew," come out. Daniel instantly started to follow Captain Garth.

Once he heard the question, he started to think on it. What did he mean? Diablo, or...his real name. Oh! His expression showed he found the answer to the question.

"Not at all. Usually, if someone shows a specific attribute, or some other crazy thing, their fellow Marines will give them a second name because of it. Thats how I got mine, anyway." He smiled, continuing to follow.

Daniel was suprised by how large the Xen's palm was, but even feeling a crushing weight, he continued the shake till the end. Afterward, he secretly shook his hand and let a silent "Whew," come out. Daniel instantly started to follow Captain Garth.

Once he heard the question, he started to think on it. What did he mean? Diablo, or...his real name. Oh! His expression showed he found the answer to the question.

"Not at all. Usually, if someone shows a specific attribute, or some other crazy thing, their fellow Marines will give them a second name because of it. Thats how I got mine, anyway." He smiled, continuing to follow.

The big Xeno produced a hiss, that sounded more like a grunt at that. ~We do not do such things among our kind. In our society, our true names are what bear the weight of who we are. Also, our accomplishments.~ He tapped a talon against the tattoo-like etchings on his collarbone, the rank insignia and commendations. ~I understand the concept, however. Humans are always seeking ways to distinguish themselves from the rest of their race, to leave an impression. The Xeno pass our accomplishments on with breeding. My children have been strong, successful. I have passed on my genes and legacy well.~

"Got a good point, but that wasn't my choosing that made me that name." He laughed, "Long story. As for the breeding part, we do that too. But I have yet to meed a nice female to get with." He smirked, and continued his following observing the Xeno's marks.

"Ver honorable way of living, I must say. But societies are interestingly differnet in many ways as it seems."

"Got a good point, but that wasn't my choosing that made me that name." He laughed, "Long story. As for the breeding part, we do that too. But I have yet to meed a nice female to get with." He smirked, and continued his following observing the Xeno's marks.

"Ver honorable way of living, I must say. But societies are interestingly differnet in many ways as it seems."

Garth stepped into a corridor, then opened a hatch marked as "Private, no entry!" and led the human through. This corridor was quiet, a little less well-lit than the public areas. "A society is built around the mindset of the people it is designed to serve. Humans are more concerned for themselves than they are about others. People serve inwardly. The Xeno serve outwardly. The loss of any one of us is as painful as the loss of your siblings or offspring would be to you."

Garth stepped into a corridor, then opened a hatch marked as "Private, no entry!" and led the human through. This corridor was quiet, a little less well-lit than the public areas. "A society is built around the mindset of the people it is designed to serve. Humans are more concerned for themselves than they are about others. People serve inwardly. The Xeno serve outwardly. The loss of any one of us is as painful as the loss of your siblings or offspring would be to you."

Daniel huffed at that comment, as if to say that he didn't appriciate being called of Earther standards. "Anagonians share a Brethrenhood, no matter the species. We care for each other, and we mourn our fallen with dignity. This may not be all apparent in our society, but our Warriors are bonded."

Gazing back at the door he was curious as to where these travels were going. However, he did not ask questions, as he did not seek to further his little comment of earlier. Either way, he watched as the walls passed by him, and made sure he followed Garth.

Daniel huffed at that comment, as if to say that he didn't appriciate being called of Earther standards. "Anagonians share a Brethrenhood, no matter the species. We care for each other, and we mourn our fallen with dignity. This may not be all apparent in our society, but our Warriors are bonded."

Gazing back at the door he was curious as to where these travels were going. However, he did not ask questions, as he did not seek to further his little comment of earlier. Either way, he watched as the walls passed by him, and made sure he followed Garth.

There is evidence of fire-fighting equipment in glass lockers along this hallway, as well as a computer terminal that seems to have a list of names and times on it.

~Our warriors bond in a far different manner,~ but the Master Chief got a sense that he would not be made privy to that, ~It ensures a cohesiveness among our society, especially the military arms. It would confuse, perhaps disgust or frighten humans.~

They arrived finally after climbing some steps in a room that has a dark glass wall. Approaching the wall, one can look down into the medical bay. The bulkheads here are reinforced and armored, and there are several security cameras focused down into the medbay at various angles. ~You may watch over your injured without being in the way from here.~

There is evidence of fire-fighting equipment in glass lockers along this hallway, as well as a computer terminal that seems to have a list of names and times on it.

~Our warriors bond in a far different manner,~ but the Master Chief got a sense that he would not be made privy to that, ~It ensures a cohesiveness among our society, especially the military arms. It would confuse, perhaps disgust or frighten humans.~

They arrived finally after climbing some steps in a room that has a dark glass wall. Approaching the wall, one can look down into the medical bay. The bulkheads here are reinforced and armored, and there are several security cameras focused down into the medbay at various angles. ~You may watch over your injured without being in the way from here.~

Although he did get the sense, he would huff again, as if saying he knew almost every way possible beings would bond. And boy, had he seen some strange things in his time. "I would say try me, but thats direspectful." He chuckled.

After arriving at the strange room, and taking in the surroundings, he would nod back. "I thank you. However, I believe I would enjoy a discussion or two with you. For one, since we are both brethren marines, why not discuss a acknowledgement between our peoples? I'm sure that would start something for the political types."

The representitive looked around, frowning. "That would violate both our neutrality, and our soverignity." The woman didn't comment that such an offer was a rather big insult, but rather gestured towards a marked corridor, "If you follow me, I will take you to the administration office for setting up an embassy and market."

Kanis smiled. "Technically if you want your people not to have the option to join us they would have to be mindless. Citizenship is open to anyone who wants it, so we can't really stop people. We simply ask for ways to advertise. THis seems accepable" she considered it, then sighed. "I am afraid I am going to need a list of things unable to be sold on this station however, Because we are quite liberal, what would be a perfectally normal shop for us might be a crime ring for you." She smiled sweetly, monitering her insides, letting loose a flood of Blue Calm, sharping her awarness to the world around her.

Although he did get the sense, he would huff again, as if saying he knew almost every way possible beings would bond. And boy, had he seen some strange things in his time. "I would say try me, but thats direspectful." He chuckled.

After arriving at the strange room, and taking in the surroundings, he would nod back. "I thank you. However, I believe I would enjoy a discussion or two with you. For one, since we are both brethren marines, why not discuss a acknowledgement between our peoples? I'm sure that would start something for the political types."

The Marine Captain did not respond to that first comment, rather standing with his hands at the small of his back, looking down into the ward. ~What type of acknowledgement are you looking for, Master Chief?~

Kanis smiled. "Technically if you want your people not to have the option to join us they would have to be mindless. Citizenship is open to anyone who wants it, so we can't really stop people. We simply ask for ways to advertise. THis seems accepable" she considered it, then sighed. "I am afraid I am going to need a list of things unable to be sold on this station however, Because we are quite liberal, what would be a perfectally normal shop for us might be a crime ring for you." She smiled sweetly, monitering her insides, letting loose a flood of Blue Calm, sharping her awarness to the world around her.

The representitive dug about in the package, then produced a hardcopy sheet with a list on it. "These are the things that are not allowed aboard the XSS1." The list includes things such as nukes, bio and chemical WMDs and such. There's also a list of drugs, mind-altering, addictive type things that are not allowed aboard the XSS1.

The Marine Captain did not respond to that first comment, rather standing with his hands at the small of his back, looking down into the ward. ~What type of acknowledgement are you looking for, Master Chief?~

His expression changed from open, to closed. A hardened expression, one that showed his years of service. One that showed he had no interest in conflict. "Something concerning peace, a brethrenhood if you would."

His expression remained unchanged, looking at a few screens. "Marines shouldn't fight someone as worthy to live as them."

His expression changed from open, to closed. A hardened expression, one that showed his years of service. One that showed he had no interest in conflict. "Something concerning peace, a brethrenhood if you would."

His expression remained unchanged, looking at a few screens. "Marines shouldn't fight someone as worthy to live as them."

~Our peoples are not at war. You certainly would not have been allowed into this private security room if we were.~ The big Xeno half-turned, looking at the man, ~I do not understand what you are attempting to say.~

"Roger that XSS1, engaging docking procedure now."

Howe watched with silent approval as his helmsman slowly lined the ship up with the dock and nudged her in.

A leutnant with four marines waited at the main airlock, watching a docking tube extend toward them via a display hooked up to an external camera feed.

OOC: How is the dock arranged? Is it like a fighter-craft hangar but much bigger, where ships are actually docked in the hull, or are they spindly docking arms extending from it?

OOC: There is a dock of sorts, like at a port. Where you pull the nose of your ship in. A couple of booms will lock it into place for security, and a tube of sorts called a skybridge extends to link up with your hatch.

Once the skybridge senses a lock, blast doors at either end open up to reveal a party of Xeno waiting on the XSS1 side of the bridge.

The leutnant nodded in greeting to the strange aliens. "It's a pleasure to be here. Our ship's marine complement requests permission to come aboard to visit the market and engage in rest and recreational activities."

In the corridors behind him, the first squads assigned for visiting XSS1 marched forward, still wearing their full battledress uniform and equipment.

The leutnant nodded in greeting to the strange aliens. "It's a pleasure to be here. Our ship's marine complement requests permission to come aboard to visit the market and engage in rest and recreational activities."

In the corridors behind him, the first squads assigned for visiting XSS1 marched forward, still wearing their full battledress uniform and equipment.

The Xeno representitive nodded her approval, "Yes, they can recieve maps of the public decks at the information office. They are also posted throughout the ship. Any weapons you bring aboard must be unloaded for the saftey of others."

~Our peoples are not at war. You certainly would not have been allowed into this private security room if we were.~ The big Xeno half-turned, looking at the man, ~I do not understand what you are attempting to say.~

"I'm Saying Captain that we are not at war, nor have we, and I don't intend on having any." He looked at the Xeno, "I'm suggesting we start a friendship here and now."

"I'm Saying Captain that we are not at war, nor have we, and I don't intend on having any." He looked at the Xeno, "I'm suggesting we start a friendship here and now."

The big Xeno Marine did a sort of headtilt, looking down at the human next to him. ~I would not be opposed to that.~

The leutnant could hardly believe his ears, he'd figured the operation would start as soon as they docked. However, anything they could do to get further in the door was fine with him. He smiled.

"Sure, weapons will be unloaded."

He turned to the marines behind him. "You heard him! We don't want to be impolite, so take your clips out!"

The clicking sounds of ammunition clips being taken out of the guns soon followed, as the marines dumped them back into the waist pouches of their light armor.

The leutnant turned back to the Xeno representative, "Done." He waved to the four marines next to him,"These four will remain here to guard the airlock and ensure there is no unauthorized access to the ship."

She read through the list, sighing...once again they where making large amounts of things she was used to not allowed. She shrugged, she could Gland what she needed, as could the rest of her staff, as for the rest, they would have to miss out.

"We shall set up shop then, I assume we have agreed on non-agression and Open trade?" she said, smiling.

The leutnant could hardly believe his ears, he'd figured the operation would start as soon as they docked. However, anything they could do to get further in the door was fine with him. He smiled.

"Sure, weapons will be unloaded."

He turned to the marines behind him. "You heard him! We don't want to be impolite, so take your clips out!"

The clicking sounds of ammunition clips being taken out of the guns soon followed, as the marines dumped them back into the waist pouches of their light armor.

The leutnant turned back to the Xeno representative, "Done." He waved to the four marines next to him,"These four will remain here to guard the airlock and ensure there is no unauthorized access to the ship."


The Xeno tilted her chin up slightly as though offended at the thought of Xeno security not being enough to handle any job, "Very well. Rest assured however that these docks are private." She turned on her heel smartly and started off towards an open hatchway, "If you will follow me, I will guide you to the entertainment decks." And if they followed, she would guide them to the appropriate locations, and then leave them to their own devices.

She read through the list, sighing...once again they where making large amounts of things she was used to not allowed. She shrugged, she could Gland what she needed, as could the rest of her staff, as for the rest, they would have to miss out.

"We shall set up shop then, I assume we have agreed on non-agression and Open trade?" she said, smiling.

The representitive nodded, "Yes, all governments are allowed open trade here. And as we are neutral, all governments that establish contact are under the obligations of a non-aggression pact." She glanced about, "That is, unless they attack us. At which point, we will be forced to destroy them."

OOC: Please check the front page. If you have a market or embassy and it is not listed there, please let me know and I'll correct the problem.

The former commander of the XSS1 had eventually moved on with his life now that construction was complete. It no longer required such a skilled engineer to oversee the project, and so he went home. The new commander of XSS1, a young male Xeno named Ashton stood on one of the private decks with his taloned hands clasped at the small of his back. Before him, a thick viewing window gave a beautiful view of dozens of foreign ships hovering in view, either waiting to dock or merely taking a break.

Behind Admiral Ashton, a hatch slid open and in stepped a young woman, "Admiral, we have recieved reports of a disturbance in Sector 00909, coreward of our facility. Some sort of biological attacks against uncivilized lifeforms. Intelligence estimates that they are probably clearing away all life on a world, and then harvesting it for resources."

http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=461430

The Admiral did not turn, but his voice touched the female's mind, ~Are they a threat to us?~

A shake of her head, sending her braid flipping off her shoulder, "No sir, not yet. Initial reports from a foreign ship that just came in said the race was appearently not willing to target civilized planets, but there were viruses directed at an inhabited planet at one point."

~Very well, place the facility under biological control. Scan all cargo and beings entering XSS1 for viral and biological threat.~

"Aye, sir."

The big Xeno Marine did a sort of headtilt, looking down at the human next to him. ~I would not be opposed to that.~

"Good, because I would desire a peace." He started to look around in some kind olf pocket for something, on his belt, as if hunting for a specific thing that could hopefully change everything.

The battle-scarred Xeno did not turn to watch, but instead studied the scene in the medical ward, which had calmed down into treating by now, rather than rushing in new cases. The job was being handled, those who had survived to make it to the XSS1's medical ward would survive.

He pulld out a pad and looked at it for a moment, putting some stuff in, then putting it away. Looking at the medical ward scene, he was approving of how everything was being handeled. Curiously, he wasn't suprised. It was almost as if he expected it.

"Hopefully soon people will come to talk. I just sent in a beginning report."

He pulld out a pad and looked at it for a moment, putting some stuff in, then putting it away. Looking at the medical ward scene, he was approving of how everything was being handeled. Curiously, he wasn't suprised. It was almost as if he expected it.

"Hopefully soon people will come to talk. I just sent in a beginning report."

Captain Garth looked at the human questioningly, then turned his attention back to the ward. - A few minutes later, a pretty young lady enters the room and looks around, "Hello. I am Major Zale, how can I help you?"

The Master Chief looked towards the woman and bowed his head slightly, looking back to Captain Garth with a questionable expression. He hadn't expected a response this quickly, but maybe something else was going down. He looked back to the Major.

"Major, nice to meet you."

The Master Chief looked towards the woman and bowed his head slightly, looking back to Captain Garth with a questionable expression. He hadn't expected a response this quickly, but maybe something else was going down. He looked back to the Major.

"Major, nice to meet you."

She and the Marine Captain exchanged a glance, but she seemed to be focusing on the Master Chief, her own expression expectant. "I was informed that you wished to discuss something. I am an official representitive of the Xeno."

"Indeed I did," Daniel responded, "I wanted to discuss terms of a lasting and firming peace between our two peoples."

"Indeed I did," Daniel responded, "I wanted to discuss terms of a lasting and firming peace between our two peoples."

The Xeno Marine excused himself and skulked through the hatch, disappearing into the corridor. Major Zale looked at the Master Chief, "Very well. Captain Garth needs to go, he must oversee to something with our child. As to this peace, the Xeno consider all governments peaceful, until they take aggressive action. Are you seeking to sign some sort of treaty or official agreement?

He smiled at hearing of them both having a child. He knew that glance ment something.

"Forgive me, I am a Marine. When I say Peace, it means I want to...."

For a moment there, he stood speachless. He just couldn't find the right words, even when he almost grasped them, he had trouble understanding them for a bit. He had somewhat of a different mindset than that of other Marines, but once he got it right, he would continue.

"...FORGE a lasting peace. Something that would say we are not at war and never will be. That is what I mean."

Major Zale stepped up to the one-way window and looked down at the medical ward. "Allow me to explain to you, Master Chief. I am not a native Xeno. My sister Kamaria was captured when her unit attempted to raid the Pennsylvania five years ago. She discovered that the Xeno have a complex, grand society. There is no theft among the Xeno. There is no rape. There is no murder. Everything the Xeno do, they do it for the society as a whole. She lead them to the planet where myself and our other sisters were stationed, and they liberated us.

"Not having been raised among the Xeno, I thought the entire concept was strange, impossible. But once you see how it works, you begin to understand. There is no jealousy, no sense of power over others. There are commanders, but they are exalted for their traits. They did not buy their commissions with money. There are no Xeno who have not earned their way in command.

"But you also have to understand. If anything, if anyone, if any government threatens the Xeno.. there will be nothing held back. The Xeno excell at warfare, they are experts, they breed to pass on their warrior genes. Garth there, he has seen warfare on more planets than you can probably name off the top of your head. He is a great warrior and has great prestige. My first child was by him, as was my fifth. Why? Because it contributes to the legacy of the Xeno overall. All Xeno see Garth and my child as their own, and all would die to protect him.

"Why do I tell you this? Because we have been lulled in the past by offers of friendship and peace, only to be attacked when we were least expecting it." She looked the Master Chief in the eyes, "The government that attacked us no longer exists." Then she was looking through the glass again, "We take betrayal very, very seriously. We accept that an enemy might come to XSS1 and set up embassy and markets. That is fine. At least they are a known enemy, and they will not come to harm here. But those who would betray us are the ones that would regret it the most."

"Do you make this offer with the utmost, honorable intentions?"

He looked at her, his expression went from welcoming to somewhat disturbed. His old wartorn expression coming back, his eyes looking back to the many wars he had been in. Looking back to his Marines, to his fellow marines that died for the cause of the Republic, died for the cause of an everlasting peace of Brethrenhood that would extend to all Nations and Peoples. His eyes narrowed, as if shirnking. His sight on a particular time in his history where war could easily be felt. His teeth quenched at the thought of it, eyes coming back to stare directly at the Zale.

"Let me assure you of one thing, Major. I have not held many a dieing Brethren in my arms-" his voice raised at this "-SEEN their blood on my HANDS-" spit easily escaping his lips as his temper rose, tears making themselves apparent "-and WEPT as I personally went to THEIR FAMILIES so all of what the Republic STANDS FOR would be shattered by one measely BACKSTAB."

He breathed heavily, his words came from his soul, and he talked to the Major not as Man and Female, but as Marine to Military Officer. He tried to gain back his stance, but something else escaped his lips before he could finish...

"For God, Independence, and Freedom. That has ALWAYS been Anagonia's motto, stance, and view on things. We would never attack a fellow Intergalactic NATION without cause, for our existance would therefore be null and VOID." He huffed, growling somewhat. "But I can be of truth when I say that we are the same way, and we would assure you would never harm us ever again if you were hostile to us. Even if it ment our ultimate demise, if your people ever intentionally harmed us, we would never-" his voiced raised a bit "-never give up until the last man, last civilian, last Brethren could never fight back, could never pull the trigger, could never stare back in defense."

He managed to shapen up his uniform a bit from his expressive words, "That is our Brethrenhood, and my promise is that we would never backstab your people. Else the Galactic Republic....is nothing but a false dream."

The Major glanced down at her neat uniform blouse, then brushed a few drops of spit from it without comment. Her attention remained on the glass however, just watching the activity below. "I believe we have an understanding then." Commented quietly.

He cleared his throat and managed to straighten his armor outfit, doing a right face towards where she looked, hands going behind his back.

"You understand that was Military to Military, nothing....personal to you."

Clearing his throat again and doing an easy job of with-holding any tears whatsoever from his memories, he gazed at the doings on.

"I wonder though, why anyone would attack your people."

The small Major nodded towards where a Xeno scientist (Distinguishable, because they are a lighter shade of black, and somewhat smaller than the warriors) was working on an unconscience marine. "We are different. Our culture, our society may seem strange, almost frightening to outsiders. Appearance alone provokes fear and attacks."

He nodded, understanding in every way he could comprehend.

"Once my lieutenant said you treated them right, all my trust went to you." He looked to the Major, "I assure you, your nation could easily be considered Brethren."

He remembered his pitting, and cleared his throat again. "Oh and...sorry about your outfit."

Zale allowed a thin smirk to touch her pale features, "I get drooled on and spit at constantly. As it stands, our two races will consider the other an ally. You already have access to embassies and markets here."

"Races?" He chuckled at that, but otherwise nodded in agreement. "You have my thanks, and it is so noted. Perhaps an embassy would be acceptable soon? Until such a time our ship is ready of course."

She'd nod, "As always, your government is welcome to set up an embassy here at the XSS1 facility."

The Xeno tilted her chin up slightly as though offended at the thought of Xeno security not being enough to handle any job, "Very well. Rest assured however that these docks are private." She turned on her heel smartly and started off towards an open hatchway, "If you will follow me, I will guide you to the entertainment decks." And if they followed, she would guide them to the appropriate locations, and then leave them to their own devices.

"Sure thing. Also, could we get maps of the station?"

The troopers casually walked behind the Xenos, following their guide to the entertainment decks. Once there, they dispersed, visiting the markets and getting a good idea of what was around.

OOC: What is around anyway? Like how crowded, how big, what sorts of shops and stuff there are, things like that?

She'd nod, "As always, your government is welcome to set up an embassy here at the XSS1 facility."

Daniel continued to observe the goings on with interest, having a particular mindset on a few marines he knew from recent combat. What was suprising was that none of them seemed to dissapprove the actions and assistance of the Xeno. It would have seemed that perhaps some would have showed some distress, or some expressions, but neither made apparent. He nodded slowly to himself, the Lieutenant knew what he was saying. These people could indeed be trusted, and this station was indeed what it seemed to be.

As for the pirate threat...well...they were being taken care of. Looking down at a beeping wrist-pad, he observed some marine communications on ship movements and ongoing battles. He wondered if the Cataclysm would be called back, he enjoyed his time here.

Sighing a bit as he looked at the number of damaged ships, he wondered if assisting them would be improper to this Neutral station.

"Major, would it be improper for me to inform a fleet of ships that this station could assit their damages?" He looekd over to her. "I just recieved some communications that Anagonian ships are engaging the pirate threat."

"Sure thing. Also, could we get maps of the station?"

The troopers casually walked behind the Xenos, following their guide to the entertainment decks. Once there, they dispersed, visiting the markets and getting a good idea of what was around.

OOC: What is around anyway? Like how crowded, how big, what sorts of shops and stuff there are, things like that?

Maps would be handed out, and there are also maps posted on the wall at information centers here and there.

OOC: Well, there's areas that have movies and entertainment from every civilization that has set up at XSS1. There's also things like very modern laser tag, a couple of arenas for it infact. There are probably 300 different stores at the moment, everything from clothing, to jewelry, furniture, food, exotic goods, pet shops, etc. Big food courts, a playground for kids, pretty much anything you'd find in a city. There is also a wing with military sales that represent various markets for people who have set up here. (Check peoples' storefronts)

Daniel continued to observe the goings on with interest, having a particular mindset on a few marines he knew from recent combat. What was suprising was that none of them seemed to dissapprove the actions and assistance of the Xeno. It would have seemed that perhaps some would have showed some distress, or some expressions, but neither made apparent. He nodded slowly to himself, the Lieutenant knew what he was saying. These people could indeed be trusted, and this station was indeed what it seemed to be.

As for the pirate threat...well...they were being taken care of. Looking down at a beeping wrist-pad, he observed some marine communications on ship movements and ongoing battles. He wondered if the Cataclysm would be called back, he enjoyed his time here.

Sighing a bit as he looked at the number of damaged ships, he wondered if assisting them would be improper to this Neutral station.

"Major, would it be improper for me to inform a fleet of ships that this station could assit their damages?" He looekd over to her. "I just recieved some communications that Anagonian ships are engaging the pirate threat."

Major Zale shook her head and replied, "No it would not be improper. Any ship that jumps into this system is under our protection. If you want to bring your ships here for repairs, that will be fine. If the pirates come here seeking repairs also, we must allow them to. Unless of course, they are directly guilty of crimes and it can be proven. Any ship may come here for upgrades and repairs for a set fee. We will not play favorites."

OOC NOTE: If you have a market at XSS1 please post a link to your storefront here and I'll link it off the front page.

Major Zale shook her head and replied, "No it would not be improper. Any ship that jumps into this system is under our protection. If you want to bring your ships here for repairs, that will be fine. If the pirates come here seeking repairs also, we must allow them to. Unless of course, they are directly guilty of crimes and it can be proven. Any ship may come here for upgrades and repairs for a set fee. We will not play favorites."

He nodded, "Neutral indeed, very good. I'm glad you don't play favorites, gives us a chance to talk to some pirates." He gazed at her, "Without hostilities of course, just diplomacy."

Looking back at his wrist pad, he noticed that some of the ships displayed in the red, and pondered his comrades condition. Then, out of the blue, something appeared on the screen. He believed it to be a resupply ship, or something of that matter. Perhaps it was one of the coverted Eclipse classes being used, it could have easily been turned into a repair ship.

Yep, thats what the screen showed, "Converted Eclipse". No namer, but obvious to the situation. The pirates were dishing out very good, and the Anagonians weren't as prepared as they thought. He somewhat huffed, no Fleet Commander would have allowed that....but...perhaps they already had the eclipse ready. Which ment that there wasn't enough......

"I need a vacation," he said out loud, sighing, rubbing his forhead gently*

Major Zale was polite enough not to lean over and look, as others might have. She instead turned to lead the Master Chief back out into the corridor. "What seems to be the problem?"

He lowered his wrist and followed, sighing again. "The pirate threat is more tremendous then some Commander predicted. They had to call a Converted Eclipse (its a mobile repair, medical, and resupply facility) to assist the ships."

He looked up and ran a hand through his hair. "I just wonder how long they can hold."

The Major continued down the corridor, letting the Master Chief back out onto the public areas of the deck. "If they can make it to the XSS1, they will be well taken care for."

With a cautious and worried gaze, he looks back to the Major. "What if they fight here? What if Anagonia hasn't been fully updated on the station? What if the pirates want this?"

She half turned to him and rose a brow, "I suggest that if your government has not been informed, then you take this opportunity to do so. Should the pirates follow the ships here and engage in combat in this solar system, then we will be forced to take measures. Should they.. want this facility, we will again take measures."

He did ake the opprotunity, and started tapping widely on the wrist pad, sending the message. Minutes later, a beep came, and he read the response. He sighed again, some hairs on his hnead seemed to grow grey, if not greyer.

"I swear...Nearly missed them. They won't bring them here."

The young woman with dark hair shrugged her narrow shoulders, "Do not allow our stance of neutrality to keep your friends from coming here. The XSS1 constantly broadcasts its neutrality and the rules of traversing this system. The pirates will obey."

"Yea, well," rubbing his head again and sighing, "I'm old and tired of mistakes."

Looking down to his wrist pad to see that two ships, one Anagonian and one Pirate, had entered the system. Both not firing weapons.

The ships would recieve communications from the XSS1 directing them to docks, on opposite ends of the ship. Appearently, they'd been forewarned of the problems.

Zale gave the Master Chief a wink, "Not even pirates are that foolish."

OOC: Uh, Xeno, not to be pushy, but it looks like you forgot about my post on the previous page.

The ships would recieve communications from the XSS1 directing them to docks, on opposite ends of the ship. Appearently, they'd been forewarned of the problems.

Zale gave the Master Chief a wink, "Not even pirates are that foolish."

He sighed happily, "Good, now I can rest in peace instead of pieces." He laughed and sighed quickly after. "I still need a vacation."

Maps would be handed out, and there are also maps posted on the wall at information centers here and there.

OOC: Well, there's areas that have movies and entertainment from every civilization that has set up at XSS1. There's also things like very modern laser tag, a couple of arenas for it infact. There are probably 300 different stores at the moment, everything from clothing, to jewelry, furniture, food, exotic goods, pet shops, etc. Big food courts, a playground for kids, pretty much anything you'd find in a city. There is also a wing with military sales that represent various markets for people who have set up here. (Check peoples' storefronts)

OOC: That one was for you, Space Penzance. It's on the last page.

He sighed happily, "Good, now I can rest in peace instead of pieces." He laughed and sighed quickly after. "I still need a vacation."

She grinned a bit slyly, "The XSS1 has vacation areas. Hotels with swimming pools, large scale wave generators if you're into sea sports. There's also our spaceport on the planet below, if you feel the need to stretch your legs a bit further."

OOC: That one was for you, Space Penzance. It's on the last page.
Ah, crap, sorry about that then, I must have missed it. I feel like an ass : P Anyway...

IC:
Major Terrinald stood in one of the market's spacious plazas. One of his junior officers, Hauptmann Davod, walked up and saluted crisply, then leaned in so his words wouldn't be overheard by casual passerbys. "All platoons report in as ready Sir!"

"Excellent Hauptmann. Contact Oberstleutnant Merrick, get his approval before we begin operations."

"At once sir!"

+++
Kapitän Howe stared intently at the Obsertleutnant, who finally returned his attention from his communications headset back to his commanding officer. "All three companies report readiness status, Company A is ready to begin operations. With your approval?"

Howe swallowed, from here, there was no going back. "Approved. Commence operation."

Merrick switched his headset microphone back on.
"Commence Operation Trojan, I repeat, Trojan."

+++
"We have go, Sir!"

Major Terrinald's heart seemed to skip a beat, and he lifted his wrist com to his mouth, setting it to address his entire company and licking his dry lips before speaking into it. "All squads, orders confirmed, commence operation."
With that, the dispersed marines of A Company snapped their helmets on, airtight seals hissing as they locked into the body armor of their wearers. Ammo clips were hurriedly snatched from their pouches and snapped into their weapons, and security guards and civilians alike found themselves looking at the business ends of an assortment of grav rifles, shredders, blaster rifles, and lasguns.

The marines of Company A wasted no time, shouting "Down! Down! Everyone on the floor now!" as they secured a perimeter in the immediate vicinity of their commanding officer. Hopefully no shooting would be required, as neither the Kapitän or Terrinald wanted any unnecessary deaths, but the marines made it evident that active resistance would be dealt with.

Terrinald lifted his wrist com again, "Squads Alpha and Baker, 1st Platoon, secure us some hostages, don't hurt them though if you can avoid it."

+++
Armored boots thudded on deck plating as Company B surged across the connecting bridge to the station, to secure a perimeter. Company C moved to the ship's main airlock to wait in reserve in case it was needed.

Howe sat in silence on his bridge, listening intently to the reports of his company commanders.

Public Entertainment Deck 3, Section K1
On these public decks, most of the people around are humans and other 'aliens', with almost no Xeno present. The females appear entirely human though, so there could be a scattering of them around. The two or three actual Xeno males present seemed to be non-warriors. Scientists or perhaps the civilian caste.

Nor do there seem to be any security guards, however. If one were to look around, they -would- note shiney black globes sunken into the cielings (Kinda like the security cameras in Wal-Mart. >_>) that no doubt had cameras in them.

The people for the most part got on the ground, with a few hesitating as usual, caught between heroic resistance and common sense. Without inccident though, they also got to the deck. Soon, only the armed terrorists were the ones standing.

Security Office, Entertainment Deck 3
Gears were already in motion when a security officer noted the sudden movement on one of her screens. She leaned over and examined it for a few seconds before hitting her radio, "Emergency on ED3K1. Armed terrorists. Repeat, ED3KI!"

No sirens or anything movie-ish like that blared out in the ship. There was no call for evacuation.

Rather, teams of Xeno Marines on duty began to report to private sections of Entertainment Deck 3, as well as a handful of Drones.

Outside
The ship that these invaders arrived on would be suddenly cut loose. The sky bridge closed its blast doors and detached from the ship while the locking mechanisms pushed it away.

A Xeno battleship, the West Virginia began to approach, backed up by a pair of destroyers, the Anzio and Waterloo. Defensive turrets on the XSS1 station swiveled to point towards the ship while a message was beamed to it, "Any attempts to power up your ship or your weaponry will result in immediate destruction. Stand by for boarding."

With the airlock retracted and the blast doors shut, the marines of Company B were thus cut off from the ship. On the plus side, they now had nothing they needed to guard, and so proceeded toward the market to link up with Company A.

Major Terrinald strolled across the market, taking care not to step on anyone, and moved to the nearest station communications terminal. He activated it, "This is Major Terrinald, I wish to speak with the station commander, immediately."

+++

Kapitan Howe smiled. Predictable, but still not welcome. At least I have something to do right now.

"I'm sorry, but I can't allow you to board my ship. I have no intention of allowing myself or my crew to be lined up in front of a firing squad, or whatever method you might use. Also, our proximity to XSS1 would make it rather...dangerous, to engage in a firefight between our ships. After all, if you were to happen to miss, it might hit your own station. And besides, there's still the problem that I have one-hundred and sixty armed marines aboard the station, who if they find out their ship has been destroyed or captured, might become angry and have no choice but to begin shooting hostages. Of course, neither of us want that, so here's my suggestion. Your warships maintain their current position, and I'll engage my shields, but not weapons. The situation on XSS1 can be resolved peacefully, and I leave."

Service bays
The marines attempting to leave the bay might notice about now, a troop of Xenos wearing that insect-ish black armor, both male and female were spread out on the bay's catwalk and ground floor and pointing the Xeno M1 carbines down into the service area of the bay where the marines had been standing by the sky bridge.

One of the Xenos, a female yelled out, voice transmitted through her helmet's communications system, "Freeze, assholes! Throw down your weapons immedietly!" And she wasn't messing around.

E-Deck 3
There was a blank screen for several minutes. Then it flickered on to show a Xeno wearing a naval uniform standing at the head of a long table. He does not look happy. Behind him is a huge Drone in full battle armor, his armor bearing the gold-painted etchings of a very high ranked officer. The smaller Xeno transmitted, ~I am Admiral Ashton, I am responsible for this facility.~

Outside
The Xenos did not seem at all moved. The warships continued to close the distance, weapons bays and torpedo ports open. The large Ultra AS Cannons were pointed towards the invader's ship. "We do not miss. You will immedietly reverse thrust until you are five kilometers from the station. You will then prepare to be boarded."

Major Kulnev sighed as he listened to the Xeno female's demand. His amplified voice boomed back at her, "You know we can't do that! You want to start a firefight, fine, but civilian deaths are on your head! Keep moving men!"

With that, the marines of Company B, weapons warily pointed at the Xeno marines on the catwalk, begin moving out of the bay to continue toward the market.

+++

"Ah, Admiral Ashton, as I said, I am Major Terrinald, and I have only one demand. We want unrestricted and unimpeded access to the station's computer system to make a copy of the files on its harddrives. Once we have that, we will release all the hostages unharmed, after we return to our ship, back to you. Do I make myself clear?"

+++

"I believe you didn't hear me the first time gentlemen, I said you're not boarding my vessel. If you want to make a fight of this, fine, but understand I'm quite capable of inflicting damage on the station and on other ships in dock, and there's the safety of the hostages on the station as well.

Now you see, we found that cooperation is easiest when one side doesn't do things that are overly hasty, like you seem about to do. Hastiness gets people killed, particularly innocent bystanders."

With that, the cruisers shields shimmered into existence around it, but her weapons remained on standby, just as Howe had said.

Docking Bay 33
The marines did not hesitate. They took advantage of their higher positions and opened up on the marines with their rifles, rattling short automatic bursts with the heavy caliber weapons. The bursts were focused on upper torsos, and several others fired off their underslung 20mm grenade launchers towards the targets. The 4 terrorists are out-numbered about 10 to 1 at this point, and the Xeno are quite excellent shots.

Outside
Several tug vehicle drifted up from 'below' the terrorist ship and fired their grapplers into the bottom of it. They then immedietely flipped on to full thrust, pulling hard at the terrorist ship to basicly pull the rear end downwards, so the nose will turn upwards and point away from the XSS1.

E-Deck 3
Admiral Ashton did not hesitate, ~These terms are completely unacceptable. You are in violation of Article 2 of the Xeno XSS1 neutrality code. Which by the way, you agreed to before you docked here. You are under obligation to surrender your arms and release your hostages or else we will be forced to destroy each and every one of you. If civilians are harmed, it will be unfortunate. However, it is an acceptable risk in the greater scale of this situation. You have exactly two minutes to comply.~ The computer screen went blank, and the monitor was disabled. The lighting in the room blinked over to red emergency lights.

OOC: Looks like my last post didn't go through last night, and it also looks like we have a situation. WEEEE...

IC:

She grinned a bit slyly, "The XSS1 has vacation areas. Hotels with swimming pools, large scale wave generators if you're into sea sports. There's also our spaceport on the planet below, if you feel the need to stretch your legs a bit further."

"Frankly, I'm going to take advantage of these vacation areas." Slowly rubbing one more hand across the side of his head, "I might even seek a room or two in some hotels. In all seriousness, I believe shore leave is in order."

Daniel looked down to his wrist poad, pressing it to ignore the battlefield display, and opening a direct link to the Cataclysm's Captain. Within a few seconds of pressing furiously through some touch-screen keys and waiting a few more, the wrist pad beeped. Gazing at a display, he sighed happily one last time. Pressing it a few more times to forward the message to every marine.

He looked to the Major Zale, "Shore leave it is, and I believe were full of Denars to have a good time." He smiled, "Vacation at last, or something near to it. Thank you kindly for your help, and-" he started to leave "-please tell Captain Garth I appriciate his time, and the same goes for you."

He gave one last smile, then, seeing a group of Anagonian Marines whom had already recieved the shore leave note, he jogged to go beside them. They seemed to be looking at a map real quick, looking at each other, then heading towards the Hotels on the station.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Orion Ha'Goth had just been released from the Medical Ward, having placed his armor back on and enjoying the feel of it once more. He looked to his armor coloration, green lines, which signaled his rank as Lieutenant. His hand-gun was holstered again, and rifle placed on the side of his backpack. Admittedly, he had no intentions of using them, their ammo placed on certian pockets on his armor.

He had just gazed at his wrist pad, seeing the shore-leave message sent by the Captain. He sighed happily, it was about time. Stretching, his tail nearly twitching with delight as the muscles fixed themselves, and his joints cracking as he felt better than new. These Xeno's knew medical, he thought to himselkf as he rubbed his scaly neck and cracked it, that was for sure.

H ehadn't forgotton about the Master Chiefs visit either, he wanted to get in touch and see what he was doing for the leave time. Grabbing his helmet he would walk from the ward and look at a map, trying to decide where to start looking. He was somewhat confused, albiet, but hopefully someone could help him.

Orion turned around and motioned for a Xeno, any Xeno. "If its not too much," he started in his calm deep voice, "I believe I need some help here."

He was sure that SOMEONE had seen Diablo.

Major Zale's head suddenly snapped up, eyes narrowing as she stared towards the far wall for a few seconds. For the Master Chief, he'd catch sort of 'echo' of something impending, a very bad feeling from the Major. Having spent time with her, he was now considered faintly linked into the Xeno empathic network.

She stepped aside as out of the private corridor came troops of Xeno Marines, lead by Captain Garth. She looked ready to follow them, but then visably forced herself to remain at her place with a forced expression of neutrality on her face. Looking over the guests still.

--

As for Orion Ha'Goth, he would encounter a smaller Xeno scientist, who peered at him curiously. The Xeno did a head tilt, then communicated, ~You seem lost. Yes, I can help. What can I do for you? ~ Words clipped and quick, somewhat aggitated over .. something going on at XSS1.

And Master Chief Diablo did indeeed turn around for a second or two, unsure of what to make of the feeling. It seemed familiar, but different...very different. Almost as if he sensed an impending....impending....

A bluish hand fell on Daniels shoulder, and he snapped out of it, almost shocked as his concentration was elsewhere before. He looked at the Dolphin-like Delphinian, who tilted her head as if concerned, sensing something. Daniel smiled to her.

Are you ok, Chief? Her telepathy echoed in his head somewhat.

"Yea," he nodded, "Yea I'm ok. Just had a bad feeling...thats all."

A Komodren looked at him and slammed a hand on Daniles shoulder, the Delphinian chuckling somewhat as she lifted hers.

"Chief, nothing to distress about. Were Marines! We'll kick anyones-" His deep reptilian voice was cut off when Daniel patted his shoulder. "Well, you get the idea."

"Indeed I do," responded the Master Chief, "so lets get to the hotel already!"

Looking at each other, they all nodded and went back to tredding towards the hotels.

------------------------------------------------------------------

"Um," he couldn't put a finger on it, something seemed off here. "Sure, yea, I guess. I do need some help."

Something was definitly off, the Xeno's were all happy like earlier, content and busy with life. Now, something else seemed to gather their attention. What was it? Should he ask questions or be polite and just go about his business? His expression showed he was thinking hard on what to say, or either what he was thinking.

Looking down for a moment, then back at the Xeno, he decided to probe. Besides, wouldn't it be what the Master Chief would do?

"Something wrong here?"

The hotel that the Master Chief ends up at is pretty much a five star place, at a much more affordable rate. It's even got a huge swimming pool with a wave generator at one end.

--

The Xeno scientist chittered and hissed, peering up and down the corridor for a moment where armored Xenos could been seen moving about. Although the ones on duty always had rifles, this time they were actually carrying them in their arms rather than by the strap over a shoulder. ~No.. nothing. How can I help you? ~ The little Xeno offered a smile, which consisted of his mouth opening and a smaller set of jaws extending to expose a wicked, sharp-toothed grin.

Orion gazed where the Xeno looked, and saw the ones carrying arms. He hadn't seen that before. He looked back to the smaller Xeno before him, seeing his....ackward grinning smile. He smiled back, exposing his own teeth in it, but otherwise expressing no competiveness with it.

"Riiiiight...sure. People with Guns on a neutral station, nothings wrong.."

OOC: Is it still possible to sign up for an Embassy on this station?

OOC: Is it still possible to sign up for an Embassy on this station?

OOC: Yup.

IC:
The scientist shrugged, tail twitching. "We usually have armed security teams on standby. There are too many warships and different cultures here to risk otherwise." A glance about, "So what is it that I can do for you?"

"Yea, sure. Ok." He nodded, smile fadeing. "I suppose I wanted to know why," he started a fake laugh, "Why many people seem worried, but thats not my conern? Is it. Surely, no, not of my brethren, nor anyone else." He looked at him seriously, "Everythings under control, I have faith in that."

Of course, he was trying to push what was really going on out of the little guy, if he could be called little. But seeing the tail twitch signaled something odd, and he knew for sure he had to be covering up for something with...more truth about a neutral station.

"I guess I wanted to ask if you'd seen a Master Chief around here, seeing as everything is-" his voice lowered deeply "-alright."

The scientist's head bobbed up and down, then he seemed to concentrate for a moment or two. ~According to what I am being told, your Master Chief is on his way to vacation deck number two right now.~

He pointed a talon towards an elevator bank. Inside, the buttons would be distinctly marked. ~You should take the lift.~ The scientist scurried away then, disappearing into a corridor marked as 'Private' in several different languages.

HMS Concord and HMS Otter FTL drives made an audible wine as they returned to real space. Both Ascot class vessels they had been moved away from their normal escort duties to deliver the embassy personnel to XSS1. Among them were the ambassador, Roger Winnings, his embassy staff and Captain Cain with 20 members of the 3rd Foreign Security Service Group, who'd be providing security for the embassy.

Of course, they weren't the first representatives of Wintrees to step onto the space station, members of Military Intelligence External (MIE) had been on the station for the past few days, posing as traders making sure that it was safe... a good precaution considering the Wintrees track record concerning Embassies.

"Hello X-ray Sierra Sierra 1, this is HMS Otter requesting permission to dock."

Orion nodded, "Thank you." He watched the Xeno scurry off, then went his own way towards the lift. Going inside, and the doors closing, he unholstered his hand-gun. Quickly, he grabbed a clip from a pocket, and loaded it, cocking it and holstering it back.

In all seriousness, he didn't like the way that Xeno acted to his questions. Looked at his own wrist-pad and pressed a few things, sending a message to his fellow marines to load one side-arm for precaution, explaining the situation as best as he could with one short paragraph.

He snarled to himself, wondering why they would hide it. But then he had a thought: wouldn't an Anagonian do the same thing? A short smile, leaving his rifle alone to make an unarmed show. Pressing a designated button, and going on his way.

HMS Concord and HMS Otter FTL drives made an audible wine as they returned to real space. Both Ascot class vessels they had been moved away from their normal escort duties to deliver the embassy personnel to XSS1. Among them were the ambassador, Roger Winnings, his embassy staff and Captain Cain with 20 members of the 3rd Foreign Security Service Group, who'd be providing security for the embassy.

Of course, they weren't the first representatives of Wintrees to step onto the space station, members of Military Intelligence External (MIE) had been on the station for the past few days, posing as traders making sure that it was safe... a good precaution considering the Wintrees track record concerning Embassies.

"Hello X-ray Sierra Sierra 1, this is HMS Otter requesting permission to dock."

The reply came, "Otter you are cleared for Dock Sixty Three." Which would be near the tail of the XSS1 facility.

They might notice, there are several Xeno warships close to the station, closer than usual infact. Their black, insect-oid appearance giving them a distinctly menacing appearance.

****

Orion would of course, make it to the vacation deck without a problem. There are no outward signs of distress, and nothing to panic the general population of XSS1. However, there are pairs of Xeno in battle armor patrolling about here and there, but that's not too atypical.

Perhaps it was a marines paranoia, sure. But he did feel that something was amiss. He sighed, maybe he was a bit premature to send a message like that, but either way he was a Marine. Caution was his business, especially if the ship he was stationed on was near something that could possibly be harmful.

He hurfed, patting his PHX Desert Fox Pistol. An old model, but still usable, and very reliable. Looking back to his AR-28 Assault Rifle, he thought about how much he wanted to load it too. May look old, but it got the job done.

Either way, he had one loaded and ready. No need to put on a show. Afterall, he was looking more for a place to rest, and someone to talk to, than anything else. He just wanted to catch up with the Master Chief, but if he couldn't find him, it was no biggie.

He tredded lightly as he ventured towards the hotels, noticing a few shops here and there, and how calm everyone looked. Perhaps it would be best to enter one of the shops, just at random...

And with that, he did.

And it is indeed a random shop. Reasonable prices and so on.

And it is indeed a random shop. Reasonable prices and so on.

OOC: Fine. I'll stop posting for a while and give the other people a chance XD.

OOC: Fine. I'll stop posting for a while and give the other people a chance XD.

OOC: There just wasn't much to say about it. And that other guy who decided to pick a fight hasn't replied. >.< If you want to keep posting, go for it.

OOC: There just wasn't much to say about it. And that other guy who decided to pick a fight hasn't replied. >.< If you want to keep posting, go for it.

OOC:

Ok, ok, sorry. But, seriously, haven't I taken up ENOUGH space? LMAO. Anyway, I will, soon....just gotta think of how to react to Mr. Attacker there.

OOC: To the person attempting to attack the XSS1, you have 5 hours to make a reply or I'm voiding your existance from my thread.

OOC: To the person attempting to attack the XSS1, you have 5 hours to make a reply or I'm voiding your existance from my thread.

OOC: I do have a life besides NS you know.... no problem though. I figured it'd be interesting to see how you'd do in an actual combat RP against someone else, rather then NPCs.

Six marines went down in spurts of blood as enemy fire penetrated through their armor. The other seventy-four returned fire, sweeping the catwalks with rifle-launched grenades, and flechette rounds. Then came the high pitched shrieks of the company's eight grav rifles, weapons that hurled a small explosive shell at 1500 meters per second at a rate of five hundred rounds per minute. They simply walked their fire across the station defenders, leaving behind a trail of destruction and shredded metal.

"Company advance! Double time!"

The shrieks of weapons fire dimmed, replaced by the intermittent thuds of grenade fire to keep the enemy pinned down as Company B moved out of the hangar bay and into the main passageway to link up with the market.

Major Kulnev activated his helmet com, "Kapitan? We need support here. We were ambushed by at least a company of station defender's as we exited the docking bay, if you could do something to keep them off our backs, that'd be great."

+++

"Acknowledged Major, I'll see what I can do."

"Tugs seem to be attempting to attach grappling lines to us Sir, orders?"

"Engage the enemy!"

Scharnhorst's ventral plasma lances rotated in their turrets, taking aim at the unfortunate tugs who had aroused their anger. Energy levels spiked, and the turrets seemed to throw a blazing comet of plasma at the tugs.

"Now, portside lance number one, nail that blast door. As soon as its down, I want the portside autocannons to sweep that docking bay with their fire!"

Armor plating retracted along a segment of the cruisers hull, another ominous turret emerging, rotating into firing position, and firing at practically point blank into the blast door.

"Begin deploying electronic warfare drones and bring up our own EW & ECM systems!"

Drones shot away from the cruiser, putting out bursts of jamming and enticing targetting sensors with false images of enemies, as the cruiser itself put up an electronic wall of distortions and static to interfere with the enemy's sensors and fire control.

+++

In the marketplace, Company A set about erecting hasty barricades across passageways with furniture from the stores, and set into position to wait for the enemy.

OOC: Uh hu.

The Xeno soldiers in the bay are not inexperienced. At the first counter fire, they scattered into the various cover offered. For the invaders attempting to enter the corridor, they would be met with a wave of weapons fire through the narrow passage, as fire teams opened up in the confined space from their end with heavier weapons. They'd continue the fire, mainly to keep the invaders from breaching beyond the docking bay and into the XSS1's cargo areas.

As for the blast doors of the sky bridge, they absorbed several hits before exploding. The docking bay depressurized, sucking everything inside towards the exit.

The Xenos, in their EVA-able suits would continue to operate in the vaccum, using their free hands to grip hand-holds afforded to them by the catwalks while continuing to fire their rifles by the pistol grips one-handed. They picked their shots now, mostly just trying to breach as many of the invaders' armor suits as possible. - Ever see what happens when you put a bullet hole into a space suit? Yup. The person inside becomes a red smear.

Drones were on the way to help block the corridors further.

Outside
Aboard the West Virginia, the Captain crossed her arms over her chest as she glared into the CIC arena. "Cowards. Ensign MaBasa, lock White Tigers onto their aft and commence firing immedietely."

The fire control officer looked up, ~They are attempting to use ECM on radar locks."

To which the Captain replied, "Initiate guided mode."

~Aye m'am.~

From weapons bays at the nose of the battleship, two White Tiger missiles were launched, propelled forward on air jets to clear the bay, then they lit up their engines and sped towards the invader ship at high speeds. Both missiles trailed behind them a slender guidance wire which would allow them to be remotely guided in, even through complete jamming.

The experienced weapons officers brought the missiles around horizontal to the XSS1, so they traveled along its walls towards the invader ship, looming large in the crosshairs. The second stage boosters fired, and the White Tigers acellerated to a thousand meters per second.

E Deck 3
Did they think the Xenos were kidding? Xeno squads accessed various shops on Entertainment Deck 3 through crew corridors, while a handful of Drones could be seen looming through the larger hatches on the deck, their heavy support weapons quite deadly in such a space.. where there's nowhere to run.

With a mental burst of communications, glass shattered out of shop windows, and a dozen little concussion grenades came flying into the positions held by the invaders, where they exploded violently in a blinding flash and deafening bang.

The emergency lighting went from red to white, then plunged the section into complete darkness. Lights began flickering on and off in strobe fashion to confuse and dazzle night vision equipment.

The Drone with the golden etchings on his armor led the way, followed by nine others as they stormed in. The Drone Commander held a multi-barreled weapon that had a bright little blue flame being fed from an ignitor. It's a flamethrower, but closer to an arc wielder with the intensity of its concentrated flame. The Drone triggered it, washing ion flame over the positions of the invaders.

From all sides, Drones aimed carefully and picked their shots at the terrorists, firing in short, accurate little bursts.

Docking Bay 33

As soon as the blast doors were breached, one of the ships port point-defense autocannons simply unloaded into the docking bay. They were heavy-caliber rounds meant to deal with fighters and missiles, and as such, rather overkill against infantry, no matter how heavy. It tracked across the bay, not targetting anything in specific, but simply chewing across the walkways and crevices with its fire, shredding compartment plating into slivers of metal as it did so.

Two more marines went down as fire came at them from ahead.

"Enemy soldiers ahead sir!"

"Bring up the plasma rifles!"

Two marines appeared shortly in front of Major Kulnev, he grabbed one by the shoulder of his armor, pointing at the enemy. "You, deal with them! Alpha and Baker, Second Platoon, support him!"

The twenty marines of Alpha and Baker squads went prone, their assault weapons ripping into the enemy positions ahead of them, and then every visor dimmed automatically as the corridor went bright white as the plasma rifle fired. It was in effect, a miniaturized and less powerful version of the cruiser's main guns, idealized for fighting infantry and light amored vehicles.

Kulnev wasted no time grabbing the second rifleman, pointing at the passageway wall, "Burn through! Everyone get back!" The rifleman turned his weapon output down to a level where the heat bloom wouldn't immediately fry everyone in the vicinity due to the cramped space, and began melting through the bulkhead. If they couldn't go through, they'd make their own path.

"Bulkhead breached Sir!"

"Smoke grenades!"

Grenades were given a short toss down the corridor, spewing out dense multicolored smoke. "Charlie Squad, through the breach!" The ten marines didn't hesitate, plunging through their new "doorway" and taking up firing positions on the other side to provide cover for the second squad to come through behind them.

+++

Scharnhorst

Howe watched calmly as the two missiles closed with his ship, his tactical officer waited until they hit the inner defense perimeter, and then pressed a button on his panel. The ship's twelve starboard and dorsal autocannon mounts ceased merely tracking the missiles as weapons release was authorized, and simply put up a wall of tungsten in their path, smiting both in seconds.

"Return fire! Hammer one of those destroyers!"

Hatches opened up along the broadside of the cruiser facing the enemy, revealing six missile ports. Missiles spat from the tubes, moving about on erratic flight paths as they closed with the enemy, three in the lead, and the other three dancing about behind them, attempting to use their sibling's probable deaths to get through. The battleship would be too tough of a target, but one of the lighter destroyers perhaps...

+++

Entertainment Deck

Polarized visors filtered out most of the light from the flashbangs, and the marines snapped their displays into infrared for fighting in the new battle conditions. Two went down, wounded from the initial burst of fire, and the other 78 returned fire automatically, hurling high explosive grenades into the shops. Terrinald grimaced as the life of one of his marines was snuffed out by the large drone, his first fatal casualty of the operation. "1st Platoon, bring that thing down!" he barked at the nearest platoon to it and its companions, and the remaining twenty-nine men turned their fire on the large drone.

"2nd Platoon, prepare for a frontal assault, we're going to break out of here and back to the hangar areas."

Commander Wilts stood in the CIC, watching one of the monitors hanging from the ceiling.

"Its confirmed Captain, its defiantly weapons fire, we've plotted it to be occurring on the far side of the station. Launch the alert fighters?" asked Lieutenant Rogers, as he approached Wilts.
"No, not yet... have the ship stand to battle stations however, signal the Otter to do the same."
"Sir."
"Crewman," said Wilts looking towards one of the duty stations. "Whats the status of our passengers."
"They've disembarked already sir, we're preparing to break the hard seal." replied the crewman, looking up.
"Too late to get them back...", the Commander looked around to Lieutenant Rogers, "Inform the flight deck to get 2 raptors spun up and ready to retrieve the embassy staff if needed..." he then looked back to the Crewman, "break away from the station at the earliest opportunity."
"Sir".

Docking Bay 33

As soon as the blast doors were breached, one of the ships port point-defense autocannons simply unloaded into the docking bay. They were heavy-caliber rounds meant to deal with fighters and missiles, and as such, rather overkill against infantry, no matter how heavy. It tracked across the bay, not targetting anything in specific, but simply chewing across the walkways and crevices with its fire, shredding compartment plating into slivers of metal as it did so.

Two more marines went down as fire came at them from ahead.

"Enemy soldiers ahead sir!"

"Bring up the plasma rifles!"

Two marines appeared shortly in front of Major Kulnev, he grabbed one by the shoulder of his armor, pointing at the enemy. "You, deal with them! Alpha and Baker, Second Platoon, support him!"

The twenty marines of Alpha and Baker squads went prone, their assault weapons ripping into the enemy positions ahead of them, and then every visor dimmed automatically as the corridor went bright white as the plasma rifle fired. It was in effect, a miniaturized and less powerful version of the cruiser's main guns, idealized for fighting infantry and light amored vehicles.

Kulnev wasted no time grabbing the second rifleman, pointing at the passageway wall, "Burn through! Everyone get back!" The rifleman turned his weapon output down to a level where the heat bloom wouldn't immediately fry everyone in the vicinity due to the cramped space, and began melting through the bulkhead. If they couldn't go through, they'd make their own path.

"Bulkhead breached Sir!"

"Smoke grenades!"

Grenades were given a short toss down the corridor, spewing out dense multicolored smoke. "Charlie Squad, through the breach!" The ten marines didn't hesitate, plunging through their new "doorway" and taking up firing positions on the other side to provide cover for the second squad to come through behind them.

+++

Scharnhorst

Howe watched calmly as the two missiles closed with his ship, his tactical officer waited until they hit the inner defense perimeter, and then pressed a button on his panel. The ship's twelve starboard and dorsal autocannon mounts ceased merely tracking the missiles as weapons release was authorized, and simply put up a wall of tungsten in their path, smiting both in seconds.

"Return fire! Hammer one of those destroyers!"

Hatches opened up along the broadside of the cruiser facing the enemy, revealing six missile ports. Missiles spat from the tubes, moving about on erratic flight paths as they closed with the enemy, three in the lead, and the other three dancing about behind them, attempting to use their sibling's probable deaths to get through. The battleship would be too tough of a target, but one of the lighter destroyers perhaps...

+++

Entertainment Deck

Polarized visors filtered out most of the light from the flashbangs, and the marines snapped their displays into infrared for fighting in the new battle conditions. Two went down, wounded from the initial burst of fire, and the other 78 returned fire automatically, hurling high explosive grenades into the shops. Terrinald grimaced as the life of one of his marines was snuffed out by the large drone, his first fatal casualty of the operation. "1st Platoon, bring that thing down!" he barked at the nearest platoon to it and its companions, and the remaining twenty-nine men turned their fire on the large drone.

"2nd Platoon, prepare for a frontal assault, we're going to break out of here and back to the hangar areas."

Docking Bay
The docking bay is where those 4 invader marines that were supposed to guard the blast doors had magically turned into 80 or more...

Basicly, the ship is firing into a bay filled with 80 of its own men.

The Xenos withdrew from their positions, manuvering into corridors and disappearing from sight, allowing the invaders to blast their own men into dust if they wanted to.

Outside
The Xeno destroyer Anzio went into an evasive roll, the nose dipping straight down and the body turning to present its broadside to the incoming missiles. Defensive flak turrets and swarm missile pods began to fire, peppering the path of the incoming projectiles with walls of shrapnel. Even the second wave of missiles would be mostly caught up, since they're basicly trying to fly through a field of wreckage from the first wave.

Still though, two missiles went through and impacted along the thick armor belts on the destroyer. It was pushed slightly from the kinetic force of the explosions, causing the nose to tip upwards again.

On the West Virginia, the Captain glared, "Forward cannons, fire! Set that bastard's ammunition belts to ruin!" The gunnery officer saluted, ~Aye m'am!~

The Captain pressed her fists into her slender hips, "I want his hide to hang on the wall in my office."

From the West Virginia, the massive naval auto cannons began to blast, spitting their armor-piercing slugs in a steady stream towards the exposed missile bays of the enemy ship.

Other cannons continued their rapid fire, pulsing, brief flickers of light projecting their rounds in a steady stream forward, alternating between explosive and armor piercing rounds, to first rip into armor, and then explode inside of it.

Entertainment Deck 3
The big Drone would recieve the brunt of small arms fire, pieces of the huge Xeno's armor breaking and falling away like a bird shedding feathers. He twisted and turned away from the brute force, while two more Drones stepped infront of him in a show of loyalty to absorb some of the incoming fire.

One Drone stepped into view through the broken window of a storefront and cradled a recoiless rifle under one arm. The wide tip of the weapon went to focus on the terrorists, then blossomed into fire. It sprayed a 'canister' round, which is akin to a giant shotgun firing ball bearings in a cloud focused on a clump of terrorists. From the side of the recoiless rifle spat an empty shell, and the weapon system fed another in through a belt under the command of the Drone.

More and more Marines were arriving by now, and the deck was filled with smoke, muzzle flashes and flying ammunition.

OOC: I think you missed the part where Company B came across the airlock bridge in the very beginning of the battle. The four marines guarding the ship itself belonged to Company C, which stayed in reserve. Also, I'm getting the feeling that this RP isn't going to work out, and I'm not saying this because of casualties. I have no problem potentially losing the cruiser and its entire complement, its just that I feel the problem is on your end of the RP.

I'm just going to go ahead and void my own presence from this, the Scharnhorst was never here, and the RP can get back on its previous track. Sorry for wasting your time, cya.

OOC: I think you missed the part where Company B came across the airlock bridge in the very beginning of the battle. The four marines guarding the ship itself belonged to Company C, which stayed in reserve. Also, I'm getting the feeling that this RP isn't going to work out, and I'm not saying this because of casualties. I have no problem potentially losing the cruiser and its entire complement, its just that I feel the problem is on your end of the RP.

I'm just going to go ahead and void my own presence from this, the Scharnhorst was never here, and the RP can get back on its previous track. Sorry for wasting your time, cya.

Good. The entire concept of this fight was stupid to begin with, not to mention a load of powergaming. Don't ever post into any of my threads again. Ever. And next time you decide to do something this stupid in someone else's RP, ask permission first.

Er, sorry about that, I was reading through this and meant to post in a different thread.

OOC:

Well....damn. Ain't this a suprise. I come back to see that an RP went sour..oh well, its for the best. Anywho.

IC:

Lieutenant Orion Ha'Goth had requested a few marines check the entire station, or the limits thereof, for the cause of the armed Xeno's. When it came back that this seemed to be regular for the station, he sighed in relief. After a communique was sent to all Marines to relieve their weapons of ammunition for the time being, the Lieutenant went back to enjoying the sights and smells of the store he was in. In particular, he picked up a strange looking writing utincel, or from what he could derive was such. He nodded in approval, and after checking some other stuff he waved a hand for someone to help him.

Even though the store wasn't huge, it was big. From Orion's perspective, he couldn't identify most of what was in here. Hopefully, he could get an idea of what he was holding and what he could buy.

"Excuse me, I'm kinda lost here. Whats your merchandise?"

The shop owner is a human male, and from the way he carries himself, he doesn't seem to be part of the Xeno society. He's probably one of the many 'free citizens' who has set up shop at XSS1.

This shop had an assortment of all sorts of strange objects. Leather clothing with chains, animal collars and leashes, a huge collection of holomovies and so on.

Speaking with a lisp, the clerk looked up at Orion and smiled. He had a tongue stud. "Oh that. That's our deluxe model, a genuine eight incher too. That's usually too much for most guys, though. Maybe I can interest you in the smaller plug version?" Winking slyly.

***
As the Master Chief relaxed by the pool at the hotel, he witnessed an odd sight. It was a fluffy, somewhat chubby red tiger. He looked quite domesticated, and sprouting from his shoulders were a useless little pair of feathery white wings.

He approached the edge of the pool and peered into it then slowly backed away from it as though afraid of the water.

The tiger padded past the Master Chief and approached the spot where some other vacationer was sprawled out on a folding chair. Beside him on a little table was a glass of iced tea.

The tiger waited until he looked away, then dabbed his paw into the tea and licked the paw. The tiger's nose scrunched up, then he dabbed the paw in and licked it again. The human started to turn, so the tiger bounded away, scurrying over to hide under the Master Chief's chair. - The human took a drink of his tea, then made a face and picked at his tongue with his fingers, examining a couple of red hairs that he'd almost drank. "What the? Waiter, there's hair in my tea!" Called towards the refreshment stand.

Orion suddenly realized what he was holding, and immedietly, and polietly, put it down. His mind almost went blank at the thought of what kind of store he was in, he didn't know what to make of it. The thought alone that he almost purchased a....a....

"Well," his thoughts and expressions turned to showing respect and kindness, "Perhaps it IS too much."

Oh boy, how to go about this...what should he do? No, it was wrong to offend, perhaps going along and not offending would be a good idea.

"S-Sure, why not? I don't have much to do anyway." His tail twitched awkardly, showing his suspicion with the situation. But, as an Anagonian, he had to at least make notes of these other peoples.

----------------------------------------------------------------

Daniel watched the spectical, and amazingly smiled and almost laughed out loud as he saw the kitties paw make a mess of the mans drink. What a sight, and seeing the creature run under his chair? Well, this was a twist of an interesting situation.

He reached to pet the tiger cats head, "Hey there."

The shop clerk nodded, accepted the .. ahem.. device from him and put it back onto the rack with others. He then retrieved a smaller version and offered it. "There you go. That's much better for first-timers." He smiled and excused himself, heading over to another aisle to attend to a customer that also looked confused. He didn't worry about theft. The .. ahem.. device has a little security strip on it to set off a door alarm if someone tried to walk out with it.

**

The tiger's head jerked back when Daniel's hand appeared, and the head thumped against the underside of his chair. Immedietly, the big red tiger's eyes welled up with tears, and he let out a pathetic little, wheezing cry. Big paws moved up to rub between his ears and he continued with the waterworks. He crawled out from under the chair and set his head on Daniel's belly with that sort of 'You hurt me, now take care of me!' expression that crybaby animals are so good at. *big eyes*

Holy goodness, Orion sighed heavily in relief as he gently put the device back down. He then proceeded to walk casually out the door, trying to convery a look of satisfaction, releasing it with an expression of OMG WTF as he left the store. He held his chest for a moment, feeling his two hearts beat, then looking to the hotels and sighing heavily again.

"Thats it, I need a vacation..."

--------------------------------------------------------------------

Daniel smiled and grabbed the tiger cat up with both hands, setting him on his lap as he sat up and rubbed his head. He chuckled, slightly amused with what the little guy did.

"Your clumsey, but don't worry." He chuckled again, rubbing his back and neck and wings. "I wonder if anyone owns you..."

A hotel wouldn't be hard to find. If he looked, he might even see Daniel trying to drag a chubby tiger up onto his lap by the pool.

**

Oh, it's no little kitty cat. It's a pretty big animal. At least a hundred pounds. Although he's not quite fully grown. He does seem like an oversized housecat in attitude and demeanor, though. At Daniel's urging, he jumped up, bringing his bulk down onto Daniel's lap and legs carelessly. He's heavy! Probably stepping on some sensitive items, too. He purrbled and snuggled up to the marine, drooling all over his hands happily.

A set of tags click together, dangling from a collar around his neck.

On the other side of a fence seperating the pool from the little sandy-floored playground the hotel operates, a Xeno Marine walked in from the direction of the hotel. She looked around, just checking up on everything, then started to turn away. Her eyes narrowed, and she lifted her radio to her mouth, talking into it while she watches Daniel.

OOC: Going away from Orion for a bit, time to concentrate on Daniels situation.....you on MSN Xeno?

IC:

"Holy" *OOF!* "crap..."

Daniel almost lost his breath as his sensitive parts were nearly crushed with paws and the like. But he adjusted, somehow, and managed to pet the kitty as best as he could, trying to keep himself alive. He did love cats, the last one he had was a good'un. This one was one helluva beast, pretty, and was very affectionate. Daniel couldn't see any expression of "Your my lunch", or anything. So he rubbed under his neck, then felt the tags. Looking at them, he tried to decifer the writing, not noticing he was being watched.

One of the tags reads as 'Baby', and bears some odd little symbols that are likely words on the Xeno language. The other tag also has Xeno lettering on it, as well as a number.

The fluffy red tiger bounced up and down happily, little wings fluttering. He was also a drool machine. Happily panting, tongue hanging out to drip drool everywhere. His head bobbed, and the marine would recieve a big, wet slurp across the face.

Daniel could have died right then and there, his cortch hurt like no other damn thing on earth. His eyes could have easily crossed, but somehow he managed a straight and kind face, although his voice seemed a bit higher pitched.

"Alright baby, please stop hurting m-" he was licked and he patooied it out. "Baby...Your cute, but..." He looked at the swimming pool, "Lets go swimming!"

The red tiger's ears stood up, and his purple eyes widened with fright. He went into .. what ammounts to attack mode for his species, and started flailing his paws weakly at Daniel's chest and face. *weak flailing* He's declawed. Even if he hadn't been, it was doubtful he would have done much more than cause light scratching. After a dozen swings, he was panting and worn out by his .. err.. rage?

The tiger looked at the pool, then started to climb under Daniel's chair again, whining.

A voice calls out from the sliding glass door of the hotel that opens up to the pool and playground area, "Baby! Leave that man alone!" It was an attractive young lady, who looked a lot like Zale. She was taller though, and fuller. She wears a Xeno jumpsuit with the high collar, and the knee high boots. On the collarbone of the suit is a rank insignia, Captain.

Daniel chuckled in his high-pitched toned voice, which several minutes later would be back to normal. He would pat the tiger again after the little episode he gave, and looked at the being who spoke, mantaining a bit of a military happy expression as he hid his "OH...MY....GAWD" feeling. He would smile and and wave.

"Oh, he ain't bothering me too much now. Its perfectly ok."

She shot him a skeptical sort of look, knowing the tiger's antics quite well. "I see. Well, it's a good thing he didn't drag you off into any trouble. He's technically my pet, more-so my responsibility. He likes to run wild on the space station here." She stepped over, prodded the tiger's chubby belly with the toe of her boot, "He needs the exercise." and the tiger just purrbled happily, pawing at her foot.

Her gaze lifted to Daniel, "My name is Danae. If you don't mind watching him, just beware. He'll chew up your boots, drool on your uniform, shed all over your gear and probably end up knocking you into that pool at some point. And that's just if you ignore him for five minutes."

Good. The entire concept of this fight was stupid to begin with, not to mention a load of powergaming. Don't ever post into any of my threads again. Ever. And next time you decide to do something this stupid in someone else's RP, ask permission first.

OOC: This will be my last post in here, because your post just begs to have a response. I like how you accuse *me* of powergaming because you couldn't read a post properly, which is hilarious coming from the guy who never took a single death in the entire firefight on the station, had an officer with 29 marines shooting at him only suffer broken armor, just happened to have an entire company of marines in the catwalks above the docking bay, never even had a single injury, and even completely ignored the fact that the tugs got fired upon at point blank by a damn cruiser! You sir, are a godmodder.

Also, I'll point out that it was an open RP, and while me not TGing you about the attack first was a breach in etiquette, I also gave you a bunch of really obvious hints, and if you didnt want to go ahead with the conflict, all you had to do was say "I'd rather not have a fight in this, sorry." and I would have bowed out without a fuss. Instead, you threw a hissy fit.

Finally, your military has a serious ego problem. If this is purely in-character, that's fine and actually decent characterization. If you believe it OOC, then you have another thing coming, because there are plenty of nations out there like Klonor, or any one of the Mars, RR, and ToY nations who could beat your military like a red headed stepchild.

OOC: This will be my last post in here, because your post just begs to have a response. I like how you accuse *me* of powergaming because you couldn't read a post properly, which is hilarious coming from the guy who never took a single death in the entire firefight on the station, had an officer with 29 marines shooting at him only suffer broken armor, just happened to have an entire company of marines in the catwalks above the docking bay, never even had a single injury, and even completely ignored the fact that the tugs got fired upon at point blank by a damn cruiser! You sir, are a godmodder.

Also, I'll point out that it was an open RP, and while me not TGing you about the attack first was a breach in etiquette, I also gave you a bunch of really obvious hints, and if you didnt want to go ahead with the conflict, all you had to do was say "I'd rather not have a fight in this, sorry." and I would have bowed out without a fuss. Instead, you threw a hissy fit.

Finally, your military has a serious ego problem. If this is purely in-character, that's fine and actually decent characterization. If you believe it OOC, then you have another thing coming, because there are plenty of nations out there like Klonor, or any one of the Mars, RR, and ToY nations who could beat your military like a red headed stepchild.

OOC: Can a moderator please delete this post? I've OOCly banned him from posting in my threads, and he's clearly not going to honor that.

She shot him a skeptical sort of look, knowing the tiger's antics quite well. "I see. Well, it's a good thing he didn't drag you off into any trouble. He's technically my pet, more-so my responsibility. He likes to run wild on the space station here." She stepped over, prodded the tiger's chubby belly with the toe of her boot, "He needs the exercise." and the tiger just purrbled happily, pawing at her foot.

Her gaze lifted to Daniel, "My name is Danae. If you don't mind watching him, just beware. He'll chew up your boots, drool on your uniform, shed all over your gear and probably end up knocking you into that pool at some point. And that's just if you ignore him for five minutes."

Daniel would nod, "Nice to meet you Danae, and I don't mind at all. If he misbehaves, I can always wrestle it out of him." He would chuckle at that, wrestling always made someone tired, and seeing as this little beast didn't like much of anythging involving fighting, it would be easy.

"I haven't met a animal that I couldn't get along with. Sure, I've been eaten alive a few times, but I never died." Shurgs a bit, uneasy about saying that, but otherwise sitting back. "Don't mind the pool at all either, cause my unforms in my room anyway."

Danae looked between the marine and the cat for a moment, then shot Baby a warning look. "You be good." She wagged a finger at him, and Baby reached out to paw at her hand before she lightly bopped him on the nose. Baby squeaked, eyes crossing to peer down at his nose, then took on a hurt-innocent sort of look. "He's rotten. When you get bored of him, just shoo him off. He knows how to get back to my quarters."

She turned to stalk away then, leaving the red tiger with the human. Baby turned, looked at Daniel, then gave him a big, juicy slurp across the face. *happy squeak!*

Daniel sighed as he was licked again, and petted the big tiger winged creature called Baby on his nose between his eyes. He wanted to go swimming, and was pretty sure this litte'un wouldn't do much damage. Sure, he didn't like water, but you know, he didn't have to follow.

Just before he could get up, he felt a scaly hand on his shoulder. Looking up, he saw Orion in a bathing suit. He nearly laughed, but kept it hidden under a serious face.

"Orion, how you doing buddy? Meet my new friend here?"

"Cute little feller," he chuckled a bit, "Just wanted to check on you Chief. I'm goin for a swim."

Daniel nodded, "I'll be in later!"

*KERPLUSH* Orion jumped into the pool without a second thought, dissappearing into the water as Daniel sat back, content with laying back for a bit.

The tiger of course, freaked out when some of the pool water splashed onto his tail. He flailed his paws and little wings, then flopped about atop Daniel. He turned, trying to examine the damp tail with suspicion. His purple eyes narrowed, then he weakly shook the tail. When that did nothing to dry it, he looked up at Daniel with those big eyes, showing him the tail as if it were some sort of honorable war wound or something. *whine*

**

Meanwhile, out in space, life went on as usual for the Xeno. Equipment was still being repaired and replaced after the battle to capture Polaris, formerly known as 'Planet Z' that was now being set up as a listening post and military depot halfway between XSS1 and the Xeno homeworld of Solaris.

"What do we have here?" Daniel instantly picked up on what the tiger was show, "Awwww....looks like you got a...um....hurt spot?" He thought for a moment, "Boo boo, thats it. Looks like you got a boo boo."

He chuckled and petted the spot, even drying it with his own towel. "There, all better."

The fluffy, pampered feline examined his offended tail for a minute or two, then puffed up and pranced around in a circle on Daniel's lap and torso, peering towards the pool suspiciously. There were about a dozen people in the big pool splashing about.

Built into the tall cieling of this section of the deck are yellow lights which give off heat and faint UV radiation, much like a sun. The UV is in entirely harmless doses though, and it provides enough heat and power to tan.

Frankly used to the weight of Baby, all he responded by was just coughing a bit, some gasps, but that was for obvious reasons.

"Okie dokie, baby.....what now?"

The overfluffed feline's ears twitched, then he peered at the marine blankly. Blinkity blinkity blink. Headtilt. He lifted a paw to scratch at his chubby belly for a minute or two, then hopped down and proceeded to pad over to the fence. Once there, he coiled himself up and pounced, leaping over the fence to land on the other side. He sniffed about, then disappeared into the crowds on the deck.

"Well, thats a mans life for ya."

He sat back and sighed, wiping some drool off here and there, and bent back the chair. He yawned.

"Oh well..."

And life at the station goes on...

OOC: Everyone please note. Check the front page. If you have an embassy at XSS1 or want one, or a market and you are not on the list please let me know.

OOC: Not sure if it’s a bit presumptuous or not but I’ve landed embassy staff on the station, got buried under the “war that never happened” posts. :P

I’m interested in a jumpgate link as well, although I’ll rp that later if I get an embassy set up.

OOC: Not sure if it’s a bit presumptuous or not but I’ve landed embassy staff on the station, got buried under the “war that never happened” posts. :P

I’m interested in a jumpgate link as well, although I’ll rp that later if I get an embassy set up.

OOC: Alright. I'll add you to the front page. Let me know what you decide on the jumpgate.

Roger Winnings sat at his desk, surveying the somewhat spacious room which was still in a state of semi-chaos due to the rushed occupation of the complex by the embassy staff… his paintings hadn’t even been put up yet…

He flicked a switch on the desk and lent towards it, “Diana, can you see about contacting the station… erm commander… I wish to talk to him about the viability of setting up a jump gate link between the station and Eastbourne station.”
“Yes Ambassador.”

He lent back in his chair fiddling with graying moustache, he then sat bot upright and flicked the switch again. “Oh and Diana, inform Commander Wilts that we’re no longer in need of his services at the docking platform and he can proceed to rally point Baker. He’s also authorized to maintain his patrols, we don’t want to put on a poor show incase HMS Royal Sabre arrives early.

The current commander of XSS1 is an Admiral named Ashton. A young male Xeno, who pretty much doesn't get seen very often on the public decks. The duty of running a massive space station tends to keep him rather busy.

However, a meeting can be arranged with Major Zale to discuss the possibility of a jump gate to join the others already in place.

That'll be great if you can, we'd like to have the gate set up as soon as possible.

OCC: Would it be ok if I have the Colony Ship Star Zero make a sudden appearence at the station for some emergency repairs and such?

OCC2: Opps, Guess it's no secret that Star Zero is my puppet. I'll delete this once I get a response

OCC: Would it be ok if I have the Colony Ship Star Zero make a sudden appearence at the station for some emergency repairs and such?

OCC2: Opps, Guess it's no secret that Star Zero is my puppet. I'll delete this once I get a response

OOC: Go for it.

[Continued from the thread: A Small Ship in a Vast Galaxy]

The Star Zero was in trouble. It did not know how much trouble.

It was slowly learning though

They had a warp drive malfuction which had led to them being followed by a stealth warship. They had pulled some serious manuvers and was forced to escape by flying through a gas gaint. The Ghen had then jumped dangerously close to the colony ship wrecking havoc on thier warp drive calibration. The ship and it's five million souls jumped into hyperspace shortly after. They were recovering at the moment oblivious to the malfunctioning warp drive.

On the bridge the ships captain, Agrippa, was getting damage reports.

Sheilds are down to 20%, structral damage throughout the vessel, damage to the living quarters. We have several dozen injured and....four deaths.

Agippa grimaced at that remark, That's great. Tallyhound will be here any moment now to demand my head on a platter.

The XO looked at him with a frown, "Captain....Talleyhound was one of the ones that died. He was walking between the rings doing status checks when we got hit."

---------------------------------------------------------

Deep below in the belly of the ship, enginneers were checking on the warp drive again.

-BZZzzZzzZZZZzzT -

"uh-oh"

The warp drive was suffering badly for some unknown reason, the crew fought hard to keep the ship in hyperspace, but to no avail. The ship rocked about and catapulted out of hyperspace spirailing into normal space....


.....right in front of XSS1...

[Continued from the thread: A Small Ship in a Vast Galaxy]

The Star Zero was in trouble. It did not know how much trouble.

It was slowly learning though

They had a warp drive malfuction which had led to them being followed by a stealth warship. They had pulled some serious manuvers and was forced to escape by flying through a gas gaint. The Ghen had then jumped dangerously close to the colony ship wrecking havoc on thier warp drive calibration. The ship and it's five million souls jumped into hyperspace shortly after. They were recovering at the moment oblivious to the malfunctioning warp drive.

On the bridge the ships captain, Agrippa, was getting damage reports.

Sheilds are down to 20%, structral damage throughout the vessel, damage to the living quarters. We have several dozen injured and....four deaths.

Agippa grimaced at that remark, That's great. Tallyhound will be here any moment now to demand my head on a platter.

The XO looked at him with a frown, "Captain....Talleyhound was one of the ones that died. He was walking between the rings doing status checks when we got hit."

---------------------------------------------------------

Deep below in the belly of the ship, enginneers were checking on the warp drive again.

-BZZzzZzzZZZZzzT -

"uh-oh"

The warp drive was suffering badly for some unknown reason, the crew fought hard to keep the ship in hyperspace, but to no avail. The ship rocked about and catapulted out of hyperspace spirailing into normal space....


.....right in front of XSS1...

A transmission would be beamed to the craft directly, first in a basic binary language code that can be easily translated. Similar to moorse code.

"Unknown ship, you have entered the airspace of XSS1. Identify if possible. If incapable of communications, signal twice with a light code. If you require emergency assistance, transmit your needs or signal five times with a light code."

"WHAT THE BLUE BLAZES?!!", shouted Agrippa.

"SIR! WARP DRIVE MALFUNCTION! EXITING HYPERSPACE!, shouted the enginnering holo.

"PILOT: Get us stable!, ordered the Captain.

The ship continued it's nauesating spiral until finnally the pilot mananged to get the unyeildly craft somewhat steady.

"SIR! Incoming transmission from...Xeno Space Station One!

Agrippa grabbed the mic to answer.

This is the Star Zero -bzzzzzzzzzt- 've had a warp drive mal-bzz-tion and requi-bzzt- repairs. We've got sev-bzzzt- jured. -bzzzt- under attack fro-bzzzt- We think we'-bzzt- lost them. Requestin-bzzzt- mission to dock. -bzzt- Zero Out.

"WHAT THE BLUE BLAZES?!!", shouted Agrippa.

"SIR! WARP DRIVE MALFUNCTION! EXITING HYPERSPACE!, shouted the enginnering holo.

"PILOT: Get us stable!, ordered the Captain.

The ship continued it's nauesating spiral until finnally the pilot mananged to get the unyeildly craft somewhat steady.

"SIR! Incoming transmission from...Xeno Space Station One!

Agrippa grabbed the mic to answer.

This is the Star Zero -bzzzzzzzzzt- 've had a warp drive mal-bzz-tion and requi-bzzt- repairs. We've got sev-bzzzt- jured. -bzzzt- under attack fro-bzzzt- We think we'-bzzt- lost them. Requestin-bzzzt- mission to dock. -bzzt- Zero Out.

Admiral Ashton stood in the primary CIC of XSS1. He nodded to a technician, ~Run a VSA.~ Then speaking to others, ~Inform Fleet Admiral Kay of the situation.~

The technician running the VSA, or Voice Stress Analysis test was looking for typical signs of lying in the communication from the damaged ship.

Meanwhile, several emergency vehicles were launched, fire-fighting and rescue vehicles that headed towards the colony ship.

Transmission,
We are deploying emergency equipment now. Casulties can be transferred to our medical facilities here. You are safe here.

Agippa breathed a large sigh of relief.

Thanks XSS1 -Bzzzt- warship managed to follo -bzzttt- through hyperspace. -bzzzt- stealth craft fired upon us -bzzzt- had to escape through a -bzzzzt- gaint.

The Star Zero, now under watch from emergency vechiles, slowed down it's spiral and proceeded on a normal course to dock with the station. It's 5 million passengers thankful to be safe at last. Luckily, the ship had maintained it's life support functions and the passengers could stay onboad.

Agrippas sighed. He really needed to find a home. These guys wouldn't take much more of this. It was still bothering him that he was followed. How exactly did they do that. He also wondered what happened to their buddy, The Diver.

Who would want to attack a colony ship anyway? Who had the time or resources to track down an unarmed civilain craft with such an advanced craft?

Agrippa started to write down a list of what they needed.

- Fighters
- Nav Charts showing unclaimed territory
- Something strong to drink

He'd think of the rest later.

Agippa breathed a large sigh of relief.

Thanks XSS1 -Bzzzt- warship managed to follo -bzzttt- through hyperspace. -bzzzt- stealth craft fired upon us -bzzzt- had to escape through a -bzzzzt- gaint.

The Star Zero, now under watch from emergency vechiles, slowed down it's spiral and proceeded on a normal course to dock with the station. It's 5 million passengers thankful to be safe at last. Luckily, the ship had maintained it's life support functions and the passengers could stay onboad.

Agrippas sighed. He really needed to find a home. These guys wouldn't take much more of this. It was still bothering him that he was followed. How exactly did they do that. He also wondered what happened to their buddy, The Diver.

Who would want to attack a colony ship anyway? Who had the time or resources to track down an unarmed civilain craft with such an advanced craft?

Agrippa started to write down a list of what they needed.

- Fighters
- Nav Charts showing unclaimed territory
- Something strong to drink

He'd think of the rest later.

Scanners would be working overtime on all frequencies and types. From elergy pulse radar, to space-type sonar, to thermal and mass scans to detect so-called 'stealth' ships.

Meanwhile, the emergency vehicles would escort the colony ship in, while a large skybridge extended from the XSS1 to lock onto a hatch, and locking arms found holds on the ship to keep it safely in place.

Once docked, Xeno medical teams would begin to board if possible to help with injuries, and fire-fighting units on standby to help as needed.

Agippa walked out onto the skyway and stepped foot on the massive station and looked for the nearest official-looking person.

"I'm Artimus Agrippa of the Colony Ship Star Zero. We owe you big time for taking us in like this. Who can I talk to about the rather unpleasant situation that brought us here?

OOC: You know what the Xeno look like, right? >_>

IC: There is a small cluster of officers waiting on the XSS1 side of the skybridge. One female steps forward, bobbing her dark-haired head curtly. "I am Major Zale. How may I help you?"

In the backround, emergency teams shuffle about, either helping with wounded or putting away fire-suppression equipment.

HMS Concord -

"Sir, unknown ship has jumped into the system, badly damaged. They've made a distress call to the station." Said the midshipman, handing a datacard to Commander Wilts, "Action stations sir?"

"No, no need for that... have our fighters stood too though... it’ll be good practice." Replied Commander Wilts.

OCC: Opps... I forgot about that..
IC:


"Umm.. Hi.. uh.", muttered Agrippa. Agrippa was concentrating on looking as respectable as possible (which isn't easy for someone as scruffy as Agrippa) that he was taken completely aback by the appreance of Major Zale. He had never encountered a non-human before. He quickly recovered and with a straight face, intoduced himself.

"Greetings, I am Artimus Agrippa, Captain of the Colony Ship Star Zero. On behalf of my crew and our passengers we'd like to thank you for your hospitiality." Agrippa then pulled out a copy of the flight recording. "This video explains what happened to our ship. We arn't sure how they followed us from hyperspace, but when we jumped out from Scaben Space these guys were right behind us. We arn't sure if you'll be able to figure it out, but our main concern is finding a home for my passengers.

OCC: Opps... I forgot about that..
IC:


"Umm.. Hi.. uh.", muttered Agrippa. Agrippa was concentrating on looking as respectable as possible (which isn't easy for someone as scruffy as Agrippa) that he was taken completely aback by the appreance of Major Zale. He had never encountered a non-human before. He quickly recovered and with a straight face, intoduced himself.

"Greetings, I am Artimus Agrippa, Captain of the Colony Ship Star Zero. On behalf of my crew and our passengers we'd like to thank you for your hospitiality." Agrippa then pulled out a copy of the flight recording. "This video explains what happened to our ship. We arn't sure how they followed us from hyperspace, but when we jumped out from Scaben Space these guys were right behind us. We arn't sure if you'll be able to figure it out, but our main concern is finding a home for my passengers.

OOC: The females look entirely human. Quite pretty, too. The males look like the monsters from the movie 'Alien'. Or you can do a Google search for 'Xenomorph'.

IC:
Major Zale would reach out and accept the copy, then pass it to a big male Marine behind her, who took it and pocketed the diskette. "Very well. We will have it analyzed. As to finding somewhere safe for your people, you may use this facility and the planet below as a temporary home until you have scouted out potential new colonies."

"Thank you. We'll find a way to repay your hospitality once we get settled. If you'll excuse me I must attend to the damage on my ship", Aprippa bowed slighty and excused himself.

The XO was tasked with getting a navchart that would show all the different claimed sectors of space, and to find potential places for a new home.

Cutter walked into one of the many shops to check it out.

(OCC: If anyone wants to RP the Nav Chart guy let me know. Sorry about the confusion concerning the appearnce of The Xeno. Let's just say I won't let any kids out of the ship for fear of them freaking out)

Ooc: ^.^

The Star Zero was now fully operational thanks to The Xeno. Of paticular note was the discovery of why the warp drive always managed to malfunction.

-------

The Xeno enginneer was awestruck, "You took a warp engine into hyperspace??

Dr. Cross was a bit...taken aback, "Yes, of course. That's what warp engines do.

The engineer shook her head, "No, no no. There are WARP drives and there are HYPERSPACE DRIVES. They're two totally seperate things! No wonder you guys kept dropping out of subspace. It's a miracle you pulled it off in the first place!"

"But...but..but....

"Just keep it on the settings I put it at and you all will be fine

-----------

Meanwhile, Cutter and Agrippa were surveying the newly purchased star map.

"What about here? It's not too far and nobody's claimed it.", asked Cutter

"Looks good to me if it has water on it. Tell Nav to start plotting a course"

------------

So far the tracking device placed on the ship went undetected. It was still sending out it's transmissions.

OCC: Can the XSS1 detect the tracking device?

OOC: Depends, really. All a tracking device does is transmit signals. If they went to the Xeno and said, "We think we're being tracked", sure, a scan could be done of the ship while it sits 'idle' with all of its communications equipment and stuff turned off and they'd be able to tell -something- is tramitting.

Message from Kinwara
To: XSS1 Space Station
From: Counsel of Kinwaran Intergalactic Affairs
Subject: A Counsel Delegate

The Counsel of Kinwaran Intergalactic Affairs wishes to ask The Xeno Space Station if it would be happy to recieve a delegate from Kinwara. An immediate response is not neccessary.

Signed, Chief Secretary of the Counsel.

OCC: Just checking, in my other RP Setian-Sebeceans was using a tracking device to follow my movements and it's still there despite the beating my ship took.


Captain Agrippa left Star Zero once more to inquire about the recordings he had turned over. It still bugged him that he was followed so close. He always was under the impression that once you hit hyperspace it was difficult to track a ship. Also bothering him was the fact that anyone would bother trying to hunt down a colony ship. It wasn't as if he was a huge star destoryer or anything. He was just a damn bus with a lotta people on it.

Sigh

Message from XSS1 Space Station
To: Kinwara
From: Counsel of Kinwaran Intergalactic Affairs
Subject: Re: A Counsel Delegate

Yes, you may establish an embassy as desired.


******
Captain Agrippa would be sent to talk to a scientist. These Xenos are slightly smaller, and a little less-dark colored than the warriors. The one he meets with is called Slath, and other scientists seem to give him great respect. The Xeno looked at him through a pair of reading glasses, his telepathic mind touching that of the Captain's. ~According to this information, your communications use a 42 hertz transmission system. However, there is a 64 hertz device transmitting from somewhere on your ship. This could indicate a foreign-made transmitter. This is not a common frequency. Also, there was extra energy used to make a particular jump at one point, indicating you had a ship stowing away in your hyperwarp field."

Message from Kinwara
To: XSS1 Space Station
From: Counsel of Kinwaran Intergalactic Affairs
Subject: RE:RE: A Counsel Delegate

We would like to send a delegate to discuss further questions we have and to settle and questions you might have. Is now a good time?

It took....a moment...for Agrippa to get over being weirded out from being talked to telepathicly by the Xeno (which is hadn't quite gotten over being weirded out from their appearance ethier), but as with most things Agrippa was able to focus on the task at hand. And, as per Agrippa's characteristic traits, he was pissed. Again.


"Do you mean to tell me that somewhere on The Star Zero there's some sort of tracking device...wait wait...that stealth thing hitched a ride from us?! Grrrrrr! Excuse me for a moment sir."

Agrippa grabbed his comlink, Cutter, shut down all commo equipment and check the hull. We've got a friggin tracking device stuck to our hull or something

Agrippa turned back to the Slath, I really appreciate that tip sir. Is there any way to dectect a stealth ship by any chance?

Message from Kinwara
To: XSS1 Space Station
From: Counsel of Kinwaran Intergalactic Affairs
Subject: RE:RE: A Counsel Delegate

We would like to send a delegate to discuss further questions we have and to settle and questions you might have. Is now a good time?

Message from XSS1 Space Station
To: Kinwara
Subject: Re:Re:Re: A Counsel Delegate

We always have staff on hand for such discussions.

It took....a moment...for Agrippa to get over being weirded out from being talked to telepathicly by the Xeno (which is hadn't quite gotten over being weirded out from their appearance ethier), but as with most things Agrippa was able to focus on the task at hand. And, as per Agrippa's characteristic traits, he was pissed. Again.


"Do you mean to tell me that somewhere on The Star Zero there's some sort of tracking device...wait wait...that stealth thing hitched a ride from us?! Grrrrrr! Excuse me for a moment sir."

Agrippa grabbed his comlink, Cutter, shut down all commo equipment and check the hull. We've got a friggin tracking device stuck to our hull or something

Agrippa turned back to the Slath, I really appreciate that tip sir. Is there any way to dectect a stealth ship by any chance?

The greyish Xeno watched Agrippa fume with some interest. It wasn't often that he had access to a human who wasn't freaking out over his appearance, and rather seemed more self-angry than anything else. ~Well, there are mass detection systems. For sensing dark stars, asteroids and planets. The same works on 'stealth' ships. The ship isn't going anywhere. It is simply blending into its backround and lacking an electronic signature. However, it is still -there-. If you run into it, you'll damage it. The mass goes nowhere."

"Mass detector huh? I'll have to talk to my engineers about that one.", Agrippa said. He felt somewhat vindictated about that last comment. If that ship hadn't moved out of the way at the last possible second it would have been the end of the stealth hitchhikers.

"Thank you very much for your help sir. Now if you'll excuse me I have to find a large titianuim hammer to smash that tracking device to little bitty stinking rotten peices., said Agrippa followed by a small bow.

------------

Three Gaurdsmen were walking on the hull of the massive ship. The lead one had a sensor in his hand and was searching for the device.

beep-beep

"This way! shouted the lead one over his radio.

The Guardsmen found the device and brought it onboard where it would wait in the captain's quarters, so it could be smashed into little bitty stinking rotten peices.

OOC: Hehe

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v145/Aescapulius/Hauler.jpg

Runcible Jumpgates don't work like that, Ebris. It is impossible to explain to a being grounded in the four dimensions how a Runcible works. It's impossibly hard. The best analogy won't come close. The AI system inwardly sighed. His captain was one of those people who yearned to know. To Understand, to be different.

It was pointless. Runcibles were simply beyond the comprehension of a normal human.

Which the crew aboard the Journeyman all were. No golems. Not even an augged human. This made the AI feel terribly alone aboard the 350 metre long cargo hauler. His crew, their families, were his own, but sometimes he wished he could have his own companion.

His nanosecond-long musing was harshly interrupted when his Underspace engines switched off and the ship roared back into reality, a crimson drop against the velvet black void, intersperced with the brilliant shards of diamonds that were other stars, other worlds. The brightest at this moment was ringed with planets, and one strange beacon, its powerful datastream invading the screaming nothing-yet-everything-ness that was Underspace.
The ship shook off the odd and ponderous light display that turned its normally dark gray hull a brilliant red, and reached out towards that beacon.

Ebris, this system has a Friendly Beacon. Looks like a spacestation of some sort. It checked again, and returned to the bridge. Indeed. Large, but I'm picking up other signals, all neutral. Looks like a way station. How curious.

"Have they seen us yet?"

Probably, if it can project a beacon that can penetrate Underspace, its sensors are probably just as powerful. I didn't pick up any active sensory system, but gravimetric sensors are hardly invasive, and that, The AI summoned an image for his captain. suggests to me that this system is a hub of sorts. Orders?

"Let's go in."

~~~

This is the Kasimian Long Range Cargo Hauler Journeyman to Hub Station. Request information and entry vectors. Be advised the Journeyman is a neutral runner ship and does not represent the Imperium of Kasim Sul Nahr, our Sovereign Nation.

As another ship entered the station another one left. As was the case for Star Zero. She would leave fully stocked, fully repaired, and headed to a new home. Every soul on board would be indebted to The Xeno.

While one adventure was ending, the next one was just beginning

[ OCC: Next Episode: The Trial of Artimus Agrippa !! ]

Reply,

Journeyman, you have entered the neutral sector of XSS1. This station is neutral. Docking proceedures are being relayed to you now.

And a data packet would be sent out, with a little map of which dock to use as well as some basic rules and regulations for the station.