NationStates Jolt Archive

For some time now, Kahlan Amnell had assumed leadership over the planet. With Richard still in the clutches of the enemy, the sole responsibility of the planet had been thrust upon her. Being the Mother Confessor had lost some of the meaning it once carried. Now she was the last of the confessors as she sat in her private chambers looking out over the massive city in the canyons below. Wind tossed her long brown hair off her shoulders and threatened to throw the many notes on her desk into chaos.

Her hand fell to the desk to keep her paper work in check. Daily reports of water works, waste treatment, military positions, and notes from the local nobles. A mound of paper work that she had been playing with for over an hour that never seemed to disappear. Somebody always wanted something from her, but Kahlan...she just wanted her husband back. She also knew that the Mord-Sith missed their Lord Rahl almost as she missed her husband. Cara had particularly taken it hard since it was her job to protect him on his last mission. She felt sorry for the General too. Whatever affected Cara, affected him as well. The entire planet had mulled into a state of disbelief as if the greatest part of them had suddenly been removed.

"I've dispatched the messengers."

The thick voice was beginning to become slightly annoying. "Lord Ashram. It is true that I have placed you in charge of the Rangers for now but that does not grant you access to my private chambers."

Black armor adorned the tall muscular frame that filled the doorway. He curtly bowed to the woman dressed all in white. "My apologies. I merely wished to inform you that the messengers dispatched to members of the alliance have left."

"Next time, inform a Mord-Sith. They will tell me."

"As you wish."

Personal messengers had been dispatched to all members of the Galactic Federation to inform them that the diplomatic meeting was taking place in D'Hara. This way it would prevent any transmissions from being overheard and keep many members secure. The Dornalians had setup the schedule of events while the D'Harans would host it. A wide transmission was also going to be sent out to the rest of the universe inviting diplomats to come and begin formal diplomatic talks.

"Before you go Ashram, send most of the D'Haran fleet to outlying systems but leave enough for defense and maintaining order."

The dark lord thumped a fist to his plated heart in D'Haran fashion. "As you wish."

Alone again, Kahlan's gave drifted back to the window. D'Haran penants snapped in the wind while people went about their lives.
---------------

While the GFFA had been informed of the meeting, it was time to let the rest of the universe know about it.

Greetings to the multitude of nations inhabiting the universe. The Abh Empire would like to invite you to a diplomatic summit taking place on the planet of D'Hara. It is the chance for diplomats to get out of the stuffy office and enjoy a time of feasting and more. Please send only one ship unarmed and your diplomat may be accompanied by only one armed guard. Anything else we will turn away.

Kahlan read the message and then crumbled it up. It almost sounded like a mix between one of those earth game shows or that the entire planet of D'Hara was throwing a party.

“It was a lonely job being the President”, President Adar thought to himself. He looked at the massive stack of paperwork, some top secret projects, like Project Eden, others were list of complaints and threats of strikes from across the lower colonies, such as Sagitarrion, or Aeralon. He ran his fingers through his hair, in a vain attempt to relieve the stress of the job.

The colonies had as always been at each others throats. Civil strife, class warfare, and the new problem of the cylon integration had nearly forced the colonies into a third civil war. The Quorum resented the peace treaty of the Second Cylon war, and even more so, they resented the representative of the cylon population, a model number six. The only thing stopping the third Colonial Civil war was the knowledge of the outside threats of alien species.

As the President tried to figure out how to hold the colonies together, he reached into his desk and pulled out a cigar. As he lit it, and slowly inhaled, it at least for the moment, cleared all of his problems. He reached for his glass, and poured the lovely green drink Ambrosia, into it. It tasted smooth, yet was quite strong. If only peace could last for more than a moment he thought.

The phone suddenly broke the peace. He reached over to it, resentful of it's existance, resentful of how in the only moment of silence was broken by the annoying ring.

"What is it?" President Adar asked with a angry tone.

I am so sorry to disturb you Mr. President, but we have just picked up an alien transmission. the soft sweet voice of his secretary said.

"Bring me a copy of the message, Ms. Seela."

Yes, Mr. President

Moments later, the door to his office opened. A beautiful brunette walked into the room, standing about 5'7 with shoulder length hair. Her eyes were as blue as the Seas of Aquarius, she was a marvel to look upon. A blind man could easily see why she was hired.

President Adar picked up the report, Ms. Seela are we still on for tonight? The president asked. She smiled, Yes sir.

Thank you that will be all.

As she walked out the door, he went back to his drink and cigar. Peace at last. He looked at the transmission.

Greetings to the multitude of nations inhabiting the universe. The Abh Empire would like to invite you to a diplomatic summit taking place on the planet of D'Hara. It is the chance for diplomats to get out of the stuffy office and enjoy a time of feasting and more. Please send only one ship unarmed and your diplomat may be accompanied by only one armed guard. Anything else we will turn away.

As he reviewed the message, something continued to bother him. He has heard of the Abh Empire before but where. He quickly picked up his phone, Ms. Seela, what do we know of the Abh empire?

We do not know much, all that we have on record is that they are currently aiding our forces in the Asfaltum sector. The majority of their fleet is on standby along side ours waiting for confirmation from the Coredians to begin the operation.

"Thank you." President Adar hung up the phone. This was the perfect solution. This could solve all of his problems, he would send the Cylon Representative, as a high ranking member of the Colonial Government, which would show good will towards the skin jobs and at the same time get her out of the Quorum. Everyone would be happy.

President Adar picked up the phone, get me the model six representative of the cylon delegation. I need her to make a diplomatic visit, to a potential ally.

Moments later, the model six picked up the phone, "Yes sir Mr. President."

I have a mission for you that will be of the utmost importance to the colonies. We have intercepted a transmission calling for a diplomatic meeting for many species in the universe. I need for you to go and represent the colonies.

"I am honored, but my place is here. With all of the recent turmoil recently, it is my place and my duty to represent the interest of my people Mr. President."

I understand your reluctance to go, but the Colonies need you for this task. I do not trust any of the other representitves to do this, and if it were not for all of the civil unrest I myself would go.

"Mr. President, are you trying to keep us out of the Quorum?"

The president paused for a moment. Was he being tha obvious? he thought.

No, I am trying to show good will towards your people. I could send the Caprican representative, and although they would probably serve the colonies better than anyone else, I decided to send you as a gesture of good will towards your people. You may of course refuse, but then I do not want to hear any complaints that we are keeping you out of the important decision. After all this meeting could be the most important meeting for the colonies since finding the Coredians.

Anger rose in the model six's voice as the president mentioned the Coredians. The race that aided with the colonies and brought an end to the second cylon war, by not only defeating the cylon forces, but humiliating them in a devastating defeat.

Fine, she barked at the president, I will go.

Twelve hours later a small colonial Raptor appears near the planet designated as D'Hara in a bright white flash against the backdrop of space. The vessel begins to transmit a message to the planet below.

This is raptor 1, of the Twelve Colonies of Kobal. We have on board a delegate from the Quorum of Twelve, and one colonial marine as per your request. We wish to attend your summit. Please acknowledge and send us the coordinates of an appropriate landing site.

All three top Federation officials from the Socialist Republic of Xanthal accept their invitations to attend the GFFA summit; Praetor Hannelore Yates, Quaestor Neəną Fəfąląs, and Senator Joshua Manson will all be present. To the regular diplomatic conference, the Triumvirate sends Ambassador Ątşuşe Umahąrą as a symbol of Xanthal's alliance with the Abh and to scout out any potential Xanthalian allies among the attendees.

OOC: Waiting for Abh to set the scene of the conferences before posting arrival.

A knock came at the door.

"Enter."

The Mord-Sith's leather outfit creaked as she entered Kahlan's room. Rikka's long brown braid fell over the front of her shoulders while her green eyes scanned the room. A habit of all Mord-Sith. "Sorry to bother you Mother Confessor, but the first of the visitors have arrived."

Seeming disinterested, Kahlan continued staring out the window. "Do we know who they are?"

"Not personally and the Empire has few records on file about these people. From what I've gathered, they are with the Empire's forces in picking a fight with the Galactic Empire. It seems that the first prince of the Clyuve royal family is also with them in Asfaltum."

Kahlan tore her gaze from the window to regard the Mord-Sith standing by the corner of her bed. "Give them clearance to land out in the Aziruth Plains and send a couple of Rangers to greet them. How are the preparations for the conference going?"

Rikka stared up at the ceiling for a moment before answering. "The tables are set in the People's Palace. Just waiting on your presence and that of our visitors."

Kahlan nodded and turned back to the window.
-------------------

Your shuttles are clear to land outside the city walls. Please land in the Aziruth Plains where Rangers will be there to greet you and escort you inside to the conference room.

Borrowing from the Abh technology, holographic lanes lit up in orbit above D'Hara that would show the proper entry point for their destination.

Out on the plains stood a number of armored clad Rangers waiting to escort their charges inside the stone walls.

1100 hours, February 18th, 2671 (Military Calendar)\
Imperial Corvette class ships, the ITS Leaf, planet of D'Hara

The message by the Abh Empire had been received by the Imperium and, although resources were stretched due to the separate situations with the Remians invading Harvest, the unknown enemy fleet that had forced Battlegroup Bulldog out of the Erisian system, and the brewing situation down in the Garvandis system, they still had plenty diplomatic resources open to them. The man picked for the job was High Councilor Varius, a wise man who served on Congress's High Council, who ran the diplomatic core. With him came Lieutenant James Marshal, an ODST Lieutenant. They were given the Leaf, a Corvette-class ship and told to go to the meeting and see what this new nation had to say.

And so it was, that with a bright blue flash and the howl of the ripping of subspace that accompanied every Slipspace jump, they were there. Varius stared out the window as the ship coasted through the lanes set by the Aph and came down to the planet, landing at one of the designated spots for their ships. Upon landing, they exited and stood before the rangers.

The small cabin was a welcome change from his busy office back home. King Kerain took advantage of the time to close his eyes secure in the knowledge that no secretaries or Clan Lords would be disturbing him with the business of national reconstruction.

"Sir."

Kerain slowly opened his eyes with a sigh. "Yes?"

"We've arrived Sir."

The King sat up now. Patriarch Kygn had spend the voyage in the cockpit with the pilot until now. "Already? I think they have taken engine efficiency too far these days. I feel like I have just dozed off."

"It has been almost a day."

"Really?"

"Aye." Kygn did not seem engaged in the conversation at all, his mind was elsewhere. "Are you sure you want to do this yourself."

"Absolutely. I need to reconnect with our allies, most of whom I have never met. Beside that, I need a break from duties back home. We are rebuilding a planet Father, do you have any idea how much work that is? Every governor and magistrate thinks he can pass off work he doesn't want to do to me. The Clan Lords think they can barge in on me at any hour of the day to whine about their petty squabbles over land and resources. No Kygn, I need to do this as much for myself as for Tidan."

Kygn scratched at his thick black beard nervously. "I'm just worried about your safety My King."

"Don't be. We will be on friendly soil after all, and Nav forbid anything should go wrong, you will be there to protect me. Though please remember that I am a veteran of 3 wars and was a General by the age of 21. I know how to defend myself."

"Aye, I have not forgotten. But that was a long time ago, in an age nothing like the one we find ourselves in now. Already I have seen things we could never imagine a year ago."

"That is true. As a boy I had never even seen the edges of Albion, and now I oversee the settlement of an entire planet. Just try to stay calm."

The sleek craft glided towards D'Hara in the utter silence of space. They had made good time, Kygn thought the King was too eager to leave his throne.

From the sky, the layout of the People's Palace had a multi pentagonal shape to it. Butresses connecting to walls forming long extensive lines intricatly connecting the rest of the palace. Towers dotted its many peaks adorned with green penants.

The first Ranger to come out and greet the diplomat from Telros had to push locks of her crimson red hair back out of her face. Out here on such vast open plains, there was nothing to cut down the slightest breeze. Every gust of wind felt like a storm brewing. Titania's (http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h255/Abh_Empire/Fire%20Emblem/FireEmblem_019.jpg) tall frame gave her an imposing impression not found in most women. Her silver armor glinted in the bright sun light as she finally greeted them.

"Welcome to D'Hara gentlemen. My name is Titania. If you'll please follow me, I will escort you to the conference room."

Outside the main gate rested a variety of Rangers still waiting for the rest of the diplomats to arrive. It looked to be a makeshift bunch with no common uniform but appearances were not exactly their strongest point anyways. Up along the walls, D'Haran soldiers went about their patrols making sure the area was secure. The D'Harans were the easiest to pick among anyone. All of the soldiers were tall and extremely well built. Their leather armor was adorned with a varitable arsenal of weapons. None of which looked pleasant. And all had grim expressions that came with the job of being a soldier.

Titania lead them under a massive gateway that in the planet's past had held against sieges of vast armies much to the dismay of invading armies. Now with today's technology, perhaps it was useless.

OOC: I'll only do about two or three more of these then the rest of you can assume you've got the some greeting and have been shown the way to the conference room.

Slowly and gracefully the small Mark II Raptor began to follow the holographic landing lights to the designated landing zone.

As the ship began to descend, the Quorium representitive began to look out the cockpit window. The beauty of the holograms amazed her, as did the technology needed to produce such an effect. "Perhaps it is a good thing I came along," she uploaded onto the cylon network as she watched the ship slowly land. As the ship landed , they looked out the window, to see a detachment of guards.

The marine loaded one round in the chamber, as he looked out the window, nervous, he wanted to be prepared for anything.

Gina smiled at the marine. Humans were always so jumpy she thought to herself. She slowly reached her hand out, and pushed the barrel of his gun downward. "I do not think that will be neccessary, if they want us dead, or I should say if they want you dead, she grinned, then there will not be much you can do about it. After all they would not invite us to their planet to kill one guard.

The marine looked at Gina with contempt. "Frakking toasters, they always seem to think they are better than others because they can download into new bodies. Their arrogance is quite annoying." the marine thought to himself.

The Raptor door began to open, and the marine stepped out. Dressed in all black, with a kevlar vest and a military issue helmet he stood at attention when he saw the guards. He then snapped his heals and turned to the side.

Out of the raptor walked out a beautiful blond woman. She wore a red dress, that covered her body, although it was a tight fit, with knee high brown leather boots. She walked out briskly yet suductively. She smiled, as her eyes began to adjust to the bright sunlight. Fresh air, she thought, as the wind began to pick up a little bit. What a lovely feeling.

She then smiles at the guards, "I am Gina, a representitive of the Twelve Colonies of Kobal. I would like to thank you for extending your invitation to us, to attend this summit." she spoke as she extended her hand in a gesture of greeting. Such a strange ritual, she thought to herself, shaking the hands, the touching of two fleshes.

The holographic display drew them down to where they had been assigned a location to land. When the ship had touched down Kygn unstrapped himself from the co-pilot chair. Resting a hand on the pilot's shoulder he said, "Well done Dylan. Once you finish dealing with the officials here, make sure you enjoy your stay. One of the perks of flying these missions is while the rest of us are busy in frustrating and taxing negotiations you get to relax in the lap of luxury." He smiled at the young man who's face grew excited.

Exiting the cockpit he saw King Kerain starting to remove his restraints and reached out a hand to help the King up.

"Thank you Patriarch." After he was also standing he brushed off his clothes straightened himself. "Alright lets go meet our friends."

The exterior door opened and the two men left the ship. The King was an average height with brown hair and green eyes. He was well built from years of military service and would have been an impressive man if he were not standing next to Kygn.

Kygn, a Patriarch of the Shield of Nav, stood well over six feet and appeared to be at the peak of physical conditioning. Those in the army joked there must be something in the water at the Temple of Nav, as even average Knights became hulks over the years. In truth the Light blesses the bodies who serve with devotion and sacrifice, and Nav took great joy in rewarding his followers. Kygn had shoulder length black hair, a thick black beard with two short braids incorporated into the mass, and pale blue eyes that seemed to be made of ice. The Patriarchs were the ruling fathers of the order known as the Shield of Nav, the warrior priests of Tidan. Their power came from their god Nav whom they had once called Aodh. When they arrived on Tidan Nav had appeared to the Knights of Aodh informing them they had been influenced by legend and myth and led astray from him. He took up residence in the Temple and the order was renamed to the Shield of Nav. This was a golden age for the Order, Nav had guided them back on the path and they would not stray under his watch.

(ooc: you don't have to do a meeting for me if you don't want too ;) )

Los Angeles, CA, Earth SSR--

The climate in LA at this time of year was good. Dry as a bone (the warning bells for wildfire risk was out at this time), but a comfy eighty degrees Farhenheit, it was good weather to go outside. Which is what Consul Carla Baileygates did, to catch the air.

As she was strolling about in the grounds outside the Commissariat of Foreign Affairs, an adjutant ran up to her with the following message.

Greetings to the multitude of nations inhabiting the universe. The Abh Empire would like to invite you to a diplomatic summit taking place on the planet of D'Hara. It is the chance for diplomats to get out of the stuffy office and enjoy a time of feasting and more. Please send only one ship unarmed and your diplomat may be accompanied by only one armed guard. Anything else we will turn away.

Carla snatched the note and read it. A smile crept on her lips, and she said to the adjutant, "Get me my transport. I'm going."

The adjutant said, "Who do we bring with you?"

Carla said, "We bring Junko....Captain Mbutu....and that's it."

The adjutant nodded, and said, "Agreed."

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

D'Hara, Abh Empire--

The New Dornalian contingent, aboard a small unarmed Mao Zedong I, warped into the area, hailing the Abh and informing them of their presence.

Soren (http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h255/Abh_Empire/Fire%20Emblem/art-003.jpg) and Greil (http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h255/Abh_Empire/Fire%20Emblem/04.jpg) were the next Rangers out to greet the new arrivals. Soren, a medium height and thinly built man went for the Colonial representative while the taller and bulkier Greil went to greet the Tidani.

Soren adjusted his robes and pushed his lengthy raven colored hair back behind his ears. The idea of a handshake was odd to him but understanding that it was a custom for many. Soren reached out and took the hand and a gave a firm shake. "Welcome to D'Hara Miss Gina. If you will please follow me, I shall escort you to the conference room."

Greil's yellow cape bellowed in the wind when he walked up to Kygn. "Good to see an ally around these parts again. Welcome to D'Hara ambassador. I'll show you to the conference chambers where people have already begun to gather."

The walk from the plains and into the People's Palace was unfortunatly somewhat lengthy as they passed under the main gates of the city, but the walk allowed them to view the noble's section of the city. Out here on the high plateau, Great stone building had been lavishly erected for nobles during their visits to the D'Haran Empire. Flower gardens were constantly manicured by their personal attendants while all the comforts of home were furnished inside. There were few nobles out today, those that were were dressed in their finest clothings as they walked to and from the palace for matters that concerned their respectable territories. Most of the human contact was with soldiers who were walking their patrols and seeing to security. Afterall, this part of the People's Palace had been the most vulnerable which would make some wonder why the nobles were living up here.

Up ahead the great palace loomed as they walked under another wall where the gate was left open for them. This lead them onto a stone path the branched off in all directions. Some paths lead to the exterior gardens while others made their way to various wings of the palace even though they were still outside. All of the diplomats were lead towards the northwest. To most it would seem that the Rangers were leading them through a maze of halls of cooridors but such was the complexity and scope of the People's Palace.

Finally, they were all lead through one more set of great oaken doors into a grand hall filled with tapestries. The multiple windows allowed sunlight to fill the room. Long rectangular tables were ladden with foods of all varieties. Steaming meats were placed on large platters while fruits and vegetables were placed at every ends of the tables. One table alone seemed devoted a variety of drinks all the way from alcoholic beverages down to fruit drinks.

Up in space the Dornalians were given the all clear to come down and were shown the same flight paths as the rest of the arrivals.


"It's time, Mother Confessor. The diplomats have begun arriving in the chambers."

Kahlan nodded and rose from her chair to leave.

OOC: That's it. Everyone else can just assume that once they land, they are taken to the conference room.

Varius and Marshal paused when they saw a beautiful woman with flowing crimson locks and bright silver armor walk over to them. Marshall recognized the gait of a fellow soldier and straightened immediately, his arm shooting up to his forehead in a salute. Varius, who was small for being an adult, gazed up at Titania, completely unafraid. The old man exuded an aura of an aged calm and wisdom, having experienced it all. He wore a dark green robe, with the sigil of the Imperium, a blue hawk soaring over a red mountain, and had even darker green trim on the arms and main body of the garment. His long, white beard flowed down to his chest and his green eyes stared out from wrinkled sockets. They listened as she spoke.

"Welcome to D'Hara gentlemen. My name is Titania. If you'll please follow me, I will escort you to the conference room."

Varius bowed. “Hello Titania, I am High Councilor Varius, and this is my escort Lieutenant Marshal.” He waved for her to leave and when she began to head towards the building, they followed. Marshal noted the soldiers patrolling and gave them an appreciative nod; they were good soldiers, neither slacking nor complaining. Moving under the gateway, they continued moving onward. Varius glanced at the nobles passing by once or twice but was focused on Titania's back as they moved through the People's Palace.

After plenty of twisting and turning, they arrived at a single set of oaken doors. When it opened and they went through it, past all the tapestries, they saw all the food and Marshal stared while Varius smiled. “Quite the feast, milady. Are we allowed to take our seats yet? My back is not as strong as it used to be.”

OOC :Gah short post. >_<

The transport which was small, (about three people can fit on) arrived at the planet called D'Hara. The small, but wide craft was made up of alloy steel and had no weapons to speak of. The hull was in poor shape as small "harmless" cracks could be seen all over the grey and weary hull. The leaders of Draco wanted to make allies and this conference was the best way to do it or at least the next best way if you thought about it. The ambassador's craft asked to land.

-This is Draco-One requesting permission to land. We are here for the conference that is being held here.

The pilot's voice was dry and mono toned, but it seemed the pilot didn't really care for what was going on. The background noise suggested that the ambassador was not the quiet type which might explain the pilot's tone of voice. Flying in space is suppose to be quiet, not loud and restless.

OOC: Short post I know, but it will get better once I get school out of my head ;)

Death and destruction had gripped the people of Mythrandir in their recent past. All because they had agreed to be a part of an alliance that was supposed to benefit the people and help aid in any defense. No benefits came and no one was there to help stave off the invasion forces that came from the Galactic Empire. Villages had been utterly destroyed and people had lost their loved ones in the heavens above as well as on the earth. Brave soldiers fought and died for their families' freedom.

The time of mourning had continued for a week as funeral pyres were lit to honor the fallen dead. Elders of the Kingdom of Mythrandir walked through it all paying their respects to the families and victorious fallen. Each one could not help but feel some semblance of responsibility for the untold lost even more regret came from fighting in the battles yet living while men and women did not.

Time came and past and healed the wounds that could be mended but some scars run so deep that even time cannot heal. Determined to build back their homes and defenses better than before, the Myths set about on reconstructing all that had been lost. New defenses, new ships, and replacing legions of the horde that had been sacrificed for the sake of freedom. It was time to rebuild but better.

For the Elders, it was time to rethink their current political strategy. During their earliest years, isolation was the most appealing of all possibilities. It was so much so that many people felt that they should return to it and simply stay away from the affairs of others. Unfortunatly, most of the Elders knew that it was too late for such a thing. Their location was known and wouldn't be long before more agressive nations learned of their home. Still there was not much that could be done at the moment but look to their own home first before looking to others.

Sebastian stood out on the balcony of his own little palace. A few guards patrolled the limited grounds around his home. Smiling, he waved at Brad when he walked by. Off in the distance, Sebastian could see the diplomatic palace a few blocks down from the Christio Cathedral. It was practically empty with merely two diplomats living in the palace. In some ways he was glad that there were not more to experience the destruction that sought out Mythrandir but he knew how much better life would be if the place was full of life.

A gentle hand rubbed his back to soothe his thoughts. Sarah folded the rest of her robe up to ward off the cool air. "You've been troubled as of late. Why?"

The young Elder remained silent for a moment to consider what was rolling through his mind. "What if I made a mistake by agreeing to join alliances with some of these nations. Would any of this had ever happened?"

His wife smiled as she bent down to lean on the wood railing next to him. "Yes. No matter whether or not we decide to join alliances with nations, this death and destruction would have happened. Perhaps it may not have been as soon as the war with the people of Tannelorn but it would have happened nonetheless. Such is the way of the universe. There will always be people that hate our ideals, our way of life. What you must do now is learn from what has happened and make our people better for it. Maybe joining encompassing alliances is not what is best for our people. Perhaps we should take our alliances one nation at a time."

Sebastian blew out a long sigh before looking at Sarah. Neither one of them had spent much time together since the last screams of battle died away. Now Sebastian felt unbelievably tired of it all. He turned from the balcony and walked back to their bed and sunk down into the mattress. Sarah moved to his side and laid down next to him with her head propped up by her hand. Together they laid their in bed for a while taking a moment to rest. There was so much chaos in the aftermath that you could lose yourself if not careful.

A knock came at the door, shaking them from their rest. Sebastian groaned then rolled to his side. He was somewhat upset by the interruption. There seemed to be no end to the requests people were making now. "Enter."

In strode Shizra, her scantily clad figure leaning against the door way as the door was pushed aside. She folded her arms under her breasts while her violet eyes glared at the couple in bed. "What do you mean, enter? A little more respect from you would be nice instead of that tone."

Sebastian rolled and sat up in bed to face the dark elf. She had a way of showing up at bad times. "Sorry about that. What can I do for the War Mistress today?"

Smiling now, Shizra closed the rest of the distance and plopped down on the bed next to Sebastian. Sarah hooked her legs around and sat on Sebastian's left and gave her greetings to the War Mistress. Sebastian threw his hands up to keep the two women from jabbering for what would eventually turn into hours. "What did you want Shizra?"

Producing a rolled up piece of parchment from her pouch, Shizra tossed the scroll to the Elder. "SIREN picked up this transmission about an hour ago. I thought you might want to see it."

Sebastian unravelled the parchment and let his eyes run over the runic lettering: "Greetings to the multitude of nations inhabiting the universe. The Abh Empire would like to invite you to a diplomatic summit taking place on the planet of D'Hara. It is the chance for diplomats to get out of the stuffy office and enjoy a time of feasting and more. Please send only one ship unarmed and your diplomat may be accompanied by only one armed guard. Anything else we will turn away."

Nodding his head, Sebastian handed the note back to Shizra. "The Abh do sound familiar but I believe that would Elder Thrandur's area of expertise since he actually met them. We were slightly busy, remember? Anyways, why bring this to me and not call the Elders together?"

Shizra remembered the long space voyage though she preferred not to. "Because if you believe that our people should be represented there, then you should go. That wench Alurial will never agree to it and Thrandur is too busy to attend any meetings at the moment. Elder Raigar is a toss up at the moment. He is divided on his opinion in such matters. Thus I have come here for you to decide a course of action."

Sebastian was somewhat surprised. He knew Shizra was one that did not want to get involved on the galactic stage. He would have to ask why she even bothered bringing this to him later. "Well Murasaki is busy with our own domestic diplomats and I can't send Luthien because Aluriel will find out."

Sarah placed a hand on his shoulders. "Sebastian, we will go. It will give you the chance to evaluate these nations for yourself."

"You see, I'll never know why such an intelligent woman ever married you. I swear you must have tricked her or something."

Sebastian's eyes rolled before settling on the War Mistress while Sarah giggled. "Don't start this teaming up thing again."

"Just face it, you need the chance to get away from all this. A meeting on a remote planet will do you some good."

Sebastian looked from Shizra to his wife who nodded her agreement. Having no choice, the Elder surrendered. "Fine. Give us a moment to change and have a shuttle standing by. Preferably human and dwarven crews. I don't need any of this leaking out to Alurial or she'll have my head."

"Don't worry, I could always be nice to her. That would shock the hells out of her and make her wonder."

"Fine. Fine. Do whatever you think is best for now." Sebastian started shewing the dark elf out of the room and then closed the door. With a second thought, the Elder threw open the door and yelled down the hall.

"Wait! I don't even know where D'Hara is!"
------------------------------

Out from the chaos of the warp came the diplomatic shuttle carrying the Elder of the human clans and his wife. A smaller parasite craft departed from the main vessel and followed the traffic lane down to the planet below.

Sebastian was at first impressed with the sight he saw as they exited the smaller shuttle. It looked as if they had something in common with the people that lived on D'Hara or at least with their architecture. Not knowing what to expect weather wise, Sebastian wore an open plain forest green vest that left his muscled arms and torso bare in the sunlight. His brown breeches were simple themselves as he dressed unlike what would be expected of someone for his station. His wife walked down beside him. Sarah's garments were simple as well deciding on a biege dress that hug her hips and curves and laced up in the back. Her long light brown hair was left long and curled neatly down to her mid-back.

Their Ranger escort was prompt and they exchanged greetings. As they were lead through the city and ultimatly into the greater palace, the two foreigners took in all the sites there were. It would be something they would have to tell Shizra about once they returned.

Finally they were shown into the conference chamber. Sebastian and Sarah both thanked their guide before he left. Turning their attention back to the room at hand, they appraised the diplomats that had arrived. Apparently their hosts had planned a banquet out in advance.

The Dornalians arrived in a shuttle, landing softly on the surface of D'Hara. Carla Baileygates had only heard of the place from the archives, but arriving there, she found it a beautiful place. Kinda like Solvang, CA, but without the kitsch that could ruin the fun of it--and definetly more Old World-esque.

As she stepped out of the craft, she was about to turn to Junko before she said, "Milady, I already know what you're going to say. And yes, I think it's beautiful too."

Carla smiled; Junko had a way of anticipating your replies quickly. Having her as assistant for a long time had you learn that lesson.

Mbutu, meanwhile, stared about and saw the environment as well. As they were led into the chamber, he was impressed, but more focused on the task at hand--presenting a Common Market proposal, trying to get people to focus on the Combined Fleet again and other things like that.

OOC: I sign off for a minute and then more people post. . . sigh;)

IC:

Titania smiled a pleasant smiled and nodded to the large half circular table that took up the center of the room. The outter arc faced a raised concrete dias with three chairs. "You may sit anywhere you like so long as it is not on the dias. If you desire anything, one of the servants will be at hand to bring anything you like."

The chairs in the room were rather large affording plenty of comfort to their occupiers. Men and women were stationed along the back walls to assist the foreign diplomats with whatever they desired so long as they possessed it.

Out of a pair of large wooden dairs to the side of the room, walked a woman dressed in a simple whie dress. Her brown hair fell all the way down to her waist and the dress did nothing to diminish her own beauty. She was flanked by two other women wearing form fitting red leather outfits. Each woman had a long braid dangling behind their backs. A tall dark man was at her side as well. He wore all black armor and a sword strapped at his side with a peculiar eye crafted into the hilt of the sword. Clearly he dwarfed all around him by his height but all of the figures carried their own bearing.

Kahlan looked at the diplomats that had arrived thus far. She clasped her hands behind her back and stood tall. "Thank you all for coming and please make yourselves comfortable. I hope that more will be on their way but until then, please make yourselves comfortable. There is plenty to drink while we wait."

Up in space, ships waiting for their clearance to land were promptly given their clearance and shown the same route down to the planet's surface like all the rest. Everyone was informed that an escort would be there waiting to show them to the conference room.

John exited the craft after it had landed and was yelling at the poor pilot.

"Why must you land like a dumb animal all the time! I can't believe a fu-" John then noticed the escorts and shut his mouth. Thank whatever God is out there.

"Good job my boy!" John said before leaving the pilot at the cockpit, but the pilot who wore a name tag with "Mark" on it walked out behind John. Mark walked up to a Ranger and said.

"Please don't kill him. I know that it will seem like the only way to shut him up, but I really need the money. You can threaten him, but just try to control yourself when he starts talking," The Ranger gave Mark a confused look.

"Marker, thats your name right? You can wait by the thing you call a ship. I'll be leaving for the summit.

"Good luck," Mark said to the Ranger he was talking to before turning around and heading back to the grey transport.

John and his escorts had started their walk to the meeting. The Rangers lasted thanks to thier training, but even John's talking caused some of them to think about killing him. It was just that he never stopped talking! When they arrived John bid them farewell as he entered the room, more like a giant hall, but a room none the less. Show offs. John thought to himself as he took a seat and asked a servant for water. When will this thing start anyway, I don't like things that are quiet...

Greetings to the multitude of nations inhabiting the universe. The Abh Empire would like to invite you to a diplomatic summit taking place on the planet of D'Hara. It is the chance for diplomats to get out of the stuffy office and enjoy a time of feasting and more. Please send only one ship unarmed and your diplomat may be accompanied by only one armed guard. Anything else we will turn away

One message was picked up by the IGTDCN, and dispatched to the central offices. It took only the smallest possible fraction of the smallest increment of time for it to automaticly be rerouted to the Ri-anese government for careful study and review.

Deuce, the one from after the merging of Mirror and original Ri-an, picked up and read the message. He wore his normal pinstripe business attire, hair combed neatly to the back and right side. He printed it out and put it in his leather Briefcase. His Leather shoes made nary a sound as he walked accross the floor to a private two man craft. a message was sent to Lady Ri-an, and she wished him safe journey. As a guard, he took his friend, Sephrena, who some knew as a true Master Painter. She looked like a young hot blond 25 year old. It wasn't that she was particularly skilled at fighting, Deuce wasn't either, but he didn't care for the effecient conversation of a guard either.

Sephrena and Deuce whiled the time it took to get there talking, and anyone listening in would've sworn there was absolutly no point to their discussions, as they discussed such deep philisophical things like why there was no red cheese, but there was Blue, yellowish-orangish, and white cheese. Other topics of discussion included where the restaurant at the end of the universe was, and what to use to get stains of of stainproof fabric. Oh yes, these conversations were almost as deep as a common mud puddle.

Havng arrived finally, thwey were given permission to land, and shown the way to the conference. Deuce looked at the message one more time and scratched his head. He coulda swore the message implied the D'harans were throwing a massive world wide party. Not that it mattered, the Ri-anese had not heard from the D'harans in an astounding number of years, and any chance to get together again was ok.

As they took the lengthy stroll to the palace they continued their conversations, and pondered why Tea was called such, and not something else. They admired the arcitecture they could see and then they saw the Palace. They saw a stone path going off in many directions, and then they entered the hall itself. they saw the chairs and turned their discussion to chair comforts. They made their way over to Kahlan, the Mother Confessor to introduce themselves.

"You may sit anywhere you like so long as it is not on the dias. If you desire anything, one of the servants will be at hand to bring anything you like."

Varius smiled and bowed again. “Thank you, milady. Give my greetings to your leader.” Bowing again he and Marshal headed over to the tables and sat down. The High Councilor sighed as he eased into the chair with help from the Lieutenant. “Ahhhh....they sure know how to make good chairs here.”

“Yes, Councilor.” Varius gazed around shrewdly, thinking. “I wonder why they started such an open negotiations. They must want something extraordinary or have a specific agenda in mind.”

Marshal shrugged. “As long as the Imperium benefits and is protected from harm.”

“Indeed, Lieutenant. With the strange invaders in that unknown sector and the invasion in the Harvest system, protection is something we seek right now.” Something caught the corner of his eye, and he turned to see a lady in white, flanked by two women in red. A tall dark man in dark armor followed, his height intimidating many diplomats, but not Varius, who only chuckled.

“Well, I'll be damned, they certainly know how to make an entrance. Now, whatever they plan to see, they can guarantee that many will listen intently. Good move, I say, good move.”

Marshall called over a servant and got them both two tall glasses of wine. As they sipped their drinks, the lady spoke.

"Thank you all for coming and please make yourselves comfortable. I hope that more will be on their way but until then, please make yourselves comfortable. There is plenty to drink while we wait."

Varius raised an eyebrow. “Hopefully, she doesn't wait too long, else some mighty get testy.”

The Xanthalians arrive on D'Hara without incident or fanfare. Fefalas, Manson, and Yates travel aboard an Abh transport to reach the planet, then ride in a pre-arranged government car to reach the meeting site. Ambassador Umehara comes to D'Hara in a Ministry of Transportation Calicke, which lands on the field outside the People's Palace. Thanks to precise scheduling and a little luck, the two parties arrive at the gate almost simultaneously; and are able to enter as a group. Once in the hall, each goes his or her own way.

The Ambassador falls promptly to the task of acquainting himself with some of the attendees, beginning with the Mythrandir Elder and his wife. Atshushi Umehara is an old, well-built xanthalian man, with healthy-looking tan skin and a keen eye for detail and deduction. His well-combed, mid-length hair is almost all gray, with only a few dark strands to hint that it was once brown. At 183 centimeters he is neither short nor tall, his main distinguishing feature being that he is the only member of the xanthalian species (http://ns.goobergunch.net/wiki/index.php/Xanthalian_species#Xanthalian) present. Garbed in the grey and black jumpsuit and gold belt that is the uniform for one in his position, he approaches the pair with a graceful bow, taking a conservative approach to his greeting despite their informal attire. "I am Ambassador Atshushi Umehara of the Socialist Republic of Xanthal," he says, addressing the strangers in a humble tone, folding his right forearm under his torso to deepen his bow while tucking the datapad in his left hand out of sight behind his back. He decides against asking them to identify themselves, leaving the response up to them. It's always difficult to strike that perfect balance between assertive and deferent when dealing with a culture for the first time, but Umehara is a quick study and not easily deterred.

Manson, the Xanthalian representative in the Federation Senate, foregoes diplomatic pandering for the time being and goes to find a drink at the table that seems dedicated to beverage. The Senator is a human of primarily Asian descent, slightly taller than average, fit and trim. His deep black hair is beginning to show streaks of grey as he proceeds into his mid-fifties. He has the look of a businessman, in a tan sport coat and slacks with blue undershirt and distinctive striped tie. In his left hand he carries a leather briefcase, its contents unknown, but apparently having some mass, as he must exert some effort to hold it. Manson is a man both shrewd and to-the-point. In the Senate, he has a reputation for long-winded proposals and staunch opposition to any act that doesn't satisfy his personal standards. He is not a popular figure, nor does he aspire to be; his effectiveness speaks for itself, as no bill he has put forth has been rejected and no demand he has made gone unfulfilled. Pouring himself a glass of white wine, he surveys the room and its occupants with a detached expression.

Hannelore Yates gets in line behind the Ri-anese delegates to thank Kahlan for her invitation and hospitality. Just entering her second term as Praetor of the Galactic Federation of Free Alliances, Yates is new to alliance government compared to Manson and Fefalas, both of whom are beginning their fifth term of service. She is also tall, though notably taller than Manson at 200 centimeters. At sixty-eight, she is roughly Umehara’s physical age; Xanthalians live about twice as long as humans and thus age on a longer curve. She wears her long grey and blonde hair out of the way in a bun at the back of her head. The Caucasian Freeland native is a happy and optimistic sort, young at heart despite her advanced age. Never one to be unnecessarily caught up in political maneuvering and diplomatic formalities, she prefers to collaborate and compromise on even terms with her colleagues, making her much more a team player than the hard-nosed Manson. With a delicate build and a kind face, she makes a conscious effort to make herself accessible and approachable, often sitting to downplay her imposing height. For this occasion she wears a simple light pink dress and slippers that, though perhaps better suited to a younger woman, are appropriate to the occasion and do not impede her movement.

While the other three go about their individual business, Fefalas simply finds a seat in a corner away from the crowd and settles in for what she hopes will be an undemanding afternoon. Nienna Fefalas is nearly five hundred years old, but she doesn’t look a day over thirty. In fact, her basic appearance hasn’t changed since the day she was activated; “she” is an android. Human in appearance but for her ears, pink plastic protrusions that encase the wires she can use to interface with other computers or recharge her internal batteries, she has the visage of a modestly attractive brunette; average in height and weight, light brown eyes, hair cut at shoulder length, and lightly-tanned skin frame a body that belies its own strength. She has been a secretary, a pilot, an engineer, and even a comfort woman. Her longest and current occupation, though, is as a judge. She served in a Xanthalian court of appeals before becoming Quaestor of the Federation, a position she has held as long as it has existed. She wears the type of black robe traditional for one occupying a judicial post. Like Hannelore she carries nothing with her, but where the Praetor travels light to get away from her work, the Quaestor doesn't need any papers or computers to do her job; everything she needs is stored neatly inside her delicate yet sturdy frame. Thanks to her multiple processors, she can process information, write reports, and monitor relevant news channels even as she sits in the corner, watching the other attendees.

Kahlan looked at the diplomats that had arrived thus far. She clasped her hands behind her back and stood tall. "Thank you all for coming and please make yourselves comfortable. I hope that more will be on their way but until then, please make yourselves comfortable. There is plenty to drink while we wait."

Carla's eyes lit up as she moved to join the line to thank her hosts for their hospitality and goodness. New Dornalians had a legendary stomach for fine liquors, and this occasion seemed to promise the "good stuff." Junko sensed the good Consul's desire for liquor, and then whispered to her, "Careful, we're among guests."

She turned to Junko, saying, "I'll be fine. I can handle my alcohol." It was true--she seemed to have a grip on herself, and though a habitual social drinker, never really seemed to drink herself into a stupor at office parties like some of her staff did.

Junko then sat down with Mbutu. Despite her status as no less than the head of the People's Acolytes, the largest religious organization-cum-private army in New Dornalia--a role some would think meant abstention from alcohol and excess to focus on the spiritual side--Junko ordered some whiskey, a shot for Junko and a shot for Carla, and Mbutu simply ordered some tea. He thought of mixing alcohol and business distateful, and felt it was better to hold off until later. It was an old habit from his military days--as a post-Treaty of Los Angeles New Dornalian, he didn't share the enthusiasm for booze a lot of his compatriots did, and felt it interfered with work.

Servants were abuzz now with activity as more and more diplomats arrived and took their seats. Water was brought around in silver pitchers and poured into deep metallic cups. Wine came out on trays where a variety of colors filled glass goblets with stylized stems of mythical creatures or floral patterns. Some of the servers even began asking if the diplomats would like anything to eat.

While the diplomats drank and ate, Kahlan greeted her visitors in turn. Cara stepped up close beside and whispered in her ear. "The Dornalians and Socialists have arrived."

Kahlan nodded her head as she finished shaking Deuce's hand and thanked him for coming. She did likewise for Yates and Carla glad to have familiar nations in her home. With pleasantries dispensed with, the Mother Confessor moved around the table to stand between it and the concrete dias.

"Hopefully none of you have been kept waiting too long but it seems that we now have enough here for a discussion. First off, one of the major aspects of this conference is that it is informal. While I would emphasize that respect for one another should and shall be maintained at all time, this is supposed to be one of those diplomatic jobs that you enjoy. Eat and drink as much as you like. Their have been rooms set aside in the palace for you if the drink becomes a little much and you require a bed for the night.

Second, while this meeting is certainly for the Abh and people of D'Hara to extend a hand of friendship and hopefully welcome new allies; this is also an opportunity for you and your nation to open dialogues with those around you. In a sense, this is a fee-for-all diplomatic wise. If discussion gets too rambunctious out in the main hall, we have smaller meeting rooms where you may discuss matters more quietly for a time.

Now as far as entertainment goes, once you have had enough debating politics and require a rest; I believe the New Dornalians have proposed a list of activities for the...more energetic of the gathered."

Kahlan pulled out a piece of paper and read from the list to make sure she got it all right. Clearly, these were not games that were used on D'Hara.

"Ahem. Wall scaling, capture the flag with simulated weapons, a number of physical courses that they have in mind, and what seems to be more capture the flag.

Participation in these events is completely voluntary. There are also plenty of gardens and art around the palace itself if that is more preferred by some of you.

Still, the most important reason for this summit is its diplomatic value. I am sure all of us here today have experienced war in some form or another and have lost something precious to them. With the universe in the state it is currently in, I can assure you that you are among friends today. Only those interested in peace and the good of their people would come here today. So, at this time I would like to open the floor to you now where you may bring up matters that concern your people and your government."

Kahlan eased back from the table. She had talked enough for now. Now it was time to let the diplomats do their own talking and allow her to figure out what was important to them.

Gina smiles at Soren. Her long blond hair gently begins to blow in the wind, as she slowly pulls her hand away. "I would like to thank you for this conference, she says to Soren, as he begins to escort her to the conference.

Gina always loved nature, the trees, the smell of the streams as you walk by, so it was no wonder that as they walked through the compound, she began to project a forrest in front of her. In her mind, and with her perceptions, she only noticed trees, the size of the redwoods, the fresh air, even small animals as she walked by. As she walked, she heard the crunch of twigs under her feet, and the shuffling of dead leaves. Only her, Soren, and her escorts were there. With her perceptions changed, she walked by the buildings almost unaware of them, yet still tracking how to get back to the raptor if she needed to.

As Soren and her approached the conference, she saw a stone wall, with two heavy wooden doors. The doors opened as she walked in.

She walked in briskly with her tight red dress and knee high brown boots. She began to look around, with all of the food and refreshments on the table. The air was filled with the scents of the feast that awaited. Gina thought to herself, "These Abh's seem to enjoy the lavish lifestyle as much as the Capricans and the Picions. Such a shame, I was hoping to meet a culture different from the Colonials."

Gina began to look around the conference room, for a person that looked to be in charge. As she looked around, she recognized a person at the head table, who appeared to be one of these Abh's. She slowly walked over to her, and replied. "Hello I am Gina, one of the Representitive's of the Twelve Colonies of Kobal. On behalf of the colonies I would like to thank you for this conference."

After her brief introduction, Gina turned and sat down next to the Telrosain diplomat. Time would tell if this meeting would truly be productive, for the Colonies and even more importantly, for the cylons.

After seeing that some people lived like he and his fellow Myths, he was surprised again to find that there were people that even looked like elves in other nations. Though it could all be a possibility that these were different species and that they were far less annoying than the elves of Mythrandir. At least this individual seemed far more polite.

Sebastian clasped his right hand over his heart and bowed in return, Mythrandir fashion. "I am Elder Sebastian of Mythrandir and this is my wife Sarah."

"Hello." Sarah smiled pleasantly and bowed when she was introduced.

The entrance of the four figures stole Sebastian's attention for a moment then came to the likely conclusion that these were the hosts. Unfortunatly their arrival had cut short any dialogue that might have developed. Perhaps there would be time later. Sebastian held out his arm towards the semi-circle wooden table and shrugged.

"I suppose we should take our seats. It appears as if our hosts are ready to begin."

"Greetings to the multitude of nations inhabiting the universe. The Abh Empire would like to invite you to a diplomatic summit taking place on the planet of D'Hara. It is the chance for diplomats to get out of the stuffy office and enjoy a time of feasting and more. Please send only one ship unarmed and your diplomat may be accompanied by only one armed guard. Anything else we will turn away."
It didn't take long for the High Council to recieve the Abh message, and it took even less time for said council to send a Coredian representative. Master Press Tilton, formerly defender of the Temple at Jurai, was just the man to attend the meeting. A reddish Republic-class diplomatic cruiser was dispatched, taking the Jedi to D'hara alone.

Rumors floated around the Jedi Master, rumors that he would ascend to the ranks of the High Council, ravaged by war just as the nation was ravaged. So far, the Council spokespeople failed to confirm or deny these rumors, but it's only a matter of time before the announcment will be made.

The ship sailed through traffic control and landed nicely, allowing the Jedi to descend the ramp and humbly greet the Abh welcoming committee. He was quickly rushed to the conference and wasted no time in striking up conversation with the delegates.

OOC: There. My presence is confirmed.

"Of course," the Ambassador says, taking a step back, symbolically releasing them from the conversation. "I will be pleased if you wish to resume our conversation later." Umehara takes a seat at the same table as Sebastian and Sarah, though a few chairs away so as not to intrude on their personal space.

Meanwhile, Manson and Yates find seats close to their current locations; the Senator at the refreshment table, the Praetor at a table piled high with assorted hors d’œuvres. All four Xanthalians wait politely, or put on the appearance of waiting politely, to hear what the other delegates have to say.

Carla got up, wandered back to the desk, downed the drink, and then left. She then walked around, eager to meet the others involved here. She could not help but blush at the acknowledgement, but she quickly recovered.

The Colonial was new. "Twelve Colonies?" she thought to herself? "Sounds...familiar. Like an old TV show....nah. Can't be." She racked the idea of meeting the newcomers in her brain, before noticing the Colonial was with the Telrosian. She then decided to hold off, and meet the Praetor.

Walking up to the Praetor getting hors d’œuvres, Carla said in a welcoming voice, "Good day, old friend."

Meanwhile, Junko got up, not content to sit around. She began hobnobbing about, hoping to be noticed. Only Mbutu was alone, sipping his tea.

Varius listened to Kahlan speak and sighed. "Oh dear...we only came because they invited us and we thought they had something special to say...oh bugger." Marshal sighed.

"Well, what do you plan to do?"

"Nothing."

"NOTHING!?" Varius looked at him, annoyed, as he sipped his drink.

"Yes, nothing. I have nothing to offer, especially as the Imperium is so busy with its own troubles, it has nothing to offer. I am up for speaking to people, if they start up the conversation that is." Whatever Marshal would say was cut off when they mentioned the Dornalian "activities" Varius sighed.

"To be young again...." That was when Gina sat next to him. Glancing over, he gave her a inquisitive look and then returned to looking around. As they all began to greet each other, Varius remained in his seat. Anyone who looked at them and caught his eyes learned two things:

That this nation was very reclusive and not experienced on the galactic stage of diplomacy, and that Varius had nothing to say, but was willing to talk.

John now bored and wanting to find company decided to get up from his seat (this took time though for obvious reasons, laziness). He looked around the room and actually started to feel welcomed, well in simple terms he started to like the place. He was told to find some possible allies when he left Draco and to also learn of other races too, but the ally thing came first. He was also (unofficially) told to find anyone who might pose a threat to Draco, but John had already forgot that part of his mission.

John walked around, more like pacing, but walking none the less. He seemed nervous as to which person or "alien" he wanted to talk to first. The first impression is the... Well the first impression. He had to make Draco look good right off the bat or they might have to fight off an invasion or two. Or three if it got really bad. He nervously sipped his water, which was empty within a minute or two of sipping. He kept pacing, but took a detour to ask for a second drink of water from a servant, which he got and he had a little chat too. Then he got back to his nervous pacing and sipping of water. Hoping to meet someone, but too nervous (scared) to ask anyone to a nice chat of politics and maybe other things like life.

Gina sat at her table, looking very out of place. She picked up a strawberry and touched it very lightly. She smiled, as she gently picked it up and took a bite out of it. It was heavenly, the sweet juices that ran down her throat. This place might be good for her, here no one hated her due to her race, yet she knew deep down that she could not obtain her goal of obtaining an ally to destroy the colonies, not while the guard was there.

She looked at her "escort." She knew he was a double edge sword, one that would protect her from any hostilites, yet was ready to shoot her if she acted in any way that did not benefit the colonies. WIthout a resserection ship in the area, she would have to act inline. This proved harder than she imagined, as she looked across the room at the Coredian delegate. Her adriniline rushed, as she wanted t o rip out his throat. A symbol of the oppression for the cylon race, for all of the pain of not allowing them to destroy the colonials. She hated them, but she could not act, not while the guards were near. She had to act like the perfect representitive of the colonies, not just for the cylon race.

She turned to the Telrosian delegate, hoping this race of humans that she knew so little about would in turn be kind to her.

"Hello, I am Gina. I am a representative of the Twelve Colonies of Kobal, and a member of the Quorium of Twelve. If I am not mistaken, our people have met ever so briefly in the past. I thought it would be prudent to introduce myself, as this is the first sumit that I or my government have ever attended." she says smiling shyly.

"Ah, Madame Consul!" Hannelore is pleased to see a familiar face outside her own group. Although they work in the same area of Lakfakalle, designated by the Abh for use by GFFA government, between their respective duties they rarely have time to really speak with one another. Carla and Hannelore first met as host and guest at a diplomatic meeting at Sapporo, the conference that cemented the present-day Xanthalian-Dornalian alliance. Now the two women are colleagues in the alliance government.

Hannelore stands up and takes the Consul's hand, giving it a vigorous shake. "It's so nice to meet you here," she says, stepping aside and inviting Carla to join her with a gesture. "Please, sit and talk with me! The appetizers are delicious." She impales a spinach ball with a toothpick and pops it into her mouth as if to prove the point.

Carla sat down next to Hannelore, charmed to see an old friend indeed. She found a mini-quiche and a rumachi stick, and then put these on a plate and took them to the table. Sitting down, she then said "I know. Love the rumachis. Something about bacon twisters that gels well with me."

She then spoke, saying, "So, how are things? We don't talk much, do we?"

"I believe they look restless."

Kahlan nodded her head at Rikka's assesment. Indeed it was most likely what some had expected but then again, this meeting wasn't her idea. Since no one had anything to really offer or nothing appeared pressing to any of the delegates, then it was time to show a few of the delegates what she and her people had to offer.

After signalling for a servant to come forward, Kahlan gave him enough copies for each delegation at the conference. Each document contained a number of items. Perhaps the most important to some of the delegates was what the D'Harans were willing to sell. Once all of the pamphlets were handed out, Kahlan began again.

"Since no one is all that interested in starting, then as host I suppose I will begin. What you see before you is a list of items, some weapons others resources, that we are willing to either give or sell to your various governments. Now if you notice, no one item has any technological desciption. That is because this comes with a price. We are now showing what we have to offer you should you choose to ally with us. For years now, the Abh Empire has struck up alliances with many nations in the sake of mutual defense but mostly trade. Today, I am here to offer that same branch of peace to you. The people of D'Hara have been responsible for many of the newest innovations in technology that our naval fleet has to offer as well as some of the Empire's resources.

As I said, the items in front of you are reserved for the sincerest of allies. We are not interested in those that are merely here to take advantage of a friendship where you simply disregard it when the time comes to keep up your end of the bargain. Many of the allies of the Abh Empire are here now and they can attest to what I say. No decision has to be given today but do think it over."

Looking down the list was a number of resources commonly found within the Empire: Anti-matter, elements for nuclear devices, refined ores for ship and city building, food supplies, gases. However there was another list look more at the military aspect. A list that would make a Xanthal military officer boggle at how the D'Harans had the resources to sell such weapons when they were not common at all among standard Abh vessels. Practically nothing from the energy weapons to shield systems resembled nothing on the Abh-Xanthal charter that was signed years ago forbidding the certain disclosure of a number of technologies.

"However before anything is finallized, I would like to know something about you and your nations. Starting with you..."

Kahlan motioned at the Telrosian delegate for his voice. Perhaps she should have asked about their nations before actually offering an alliance and a list of items to sell to people. That or she was confident in her security as well as that of the Empire's.

Varius sighed. "Well. It would appear everyone is like us, we have no idea what we are doing here and are floundering like fish." Marshal rolled his eyes. He was about to speak when Gina turned to Varius and spoke up.

"Hello, I am Gina. I am a representative of the Twelve Colonies of Kobal, and a member of the Quorium of Twelve. If I am not mistaken, our people have met ever so briefly in the past. I thought it would be prudent to introduce myself, as this is the first summit that I or my government have ever attended."

Varius chuckled. "Indeed, that tense situation in the Garvandis sector. Some very touchy people over there, especially in your own fleet. As for the introduction, well, we ARE here to play politics, might as well learn the names of the people we will lie and scheme to." At the look on her face, he chuckled. "Sorry, a joke...a joke. I am High Councilor Varius, leader of the Imperium of Terra's diplomatic core."

They continued to talk a bit but paused when Kahlan spoke up, with servants laying out items. Varius grinned. "Ah, an incentive. Good move."

Since no one is all that interested in starting, then as host I suppose I will begin. What you see before you is a list of items, some weapons others resources, that we are willing to either give or sell to your various governments. Now if you notice, no one item has any technological desciption. That is because this comes with a price. We are now showing what we have to offer you should you choose to ally with us. For years now, the Abh Empire has struck up alliances with many nations in the sake of mutual defense but mostly trade. Today, I am here to offer that same branch of peace to you. The people of D'Hara have been responsible for many of the newest innovations in technology that our naval fleet has to offer as well as some of the Empire's resources.

As I said, the items in front of you are reserved for the sincerest of allies. We are not interested in those that are merely here to take advantage of a friendship where you simply disregard it when the time comes to keep up your end of the bargain. Many of the allies of the Abh Empire are here now and they can attest to what I say. No decision has to be given today but do think it over."

When she waved at him, Varius smiled. "Thank you, milady. Marshal, mind helping me over there?"

"Of couse, Councilor." Easing the old man up, he walked over and began to inspect the items. Though he kept his face one of amusement, inside he was surprised. The technology they was far beyond the Imperium's, though some of the weapons and items were almost in reach of the Imperium. Glancing up, he coughed and spoke.

"Well, I must say, quite a display. You certainly have the Imperium's interest. I am interested in hammering out an alliance of some kind, if and when you have the time for a private meeting. I suggest everyone come up here and look. Our host has something everyone could use. After all, who doesn't like more food?" He let the chuckle ripple through the cloud as he gazed at Kahlan and spoke quietly, using the laughter as cover.

"If you can set up a meeting, the Imperium would be willing to discuss a trade of technologies as well as that alliance I mentioned." Kahlan would see the more serious side of Varius for a second before a smile was on his face again and he was perusing the items once more.

Carla's eyes widened. What kind of weapons were these people selling? Evidently, they were something indeed quite...powerful.

She pondered her own plan. A Common Market of sorts, like the one that existed before the Apocalypse. Would they agree to it though? The assembled certainly looked like a diverse bunch, and it would be tricky.

Since Hannelore is closest, she gets Xanthal's copy of the list, which she pages through idly. "Well, you know how work keeps us busy. My job is easy enough most of the time, though. I sit around and make sure the Senate is running smoothly when they're in session, take care of paperwork when they're not, and take vacations when I can. So, what do you make of this?" She holds up the handout.

Semi-OOC:

The Federation vaguely remembers applying for GFFA membership before disappearing into the netherworld of RL.

The netherworld of RL has regurgitated the Federation once again... this time with, at this point, a semi-singular goal: the finishing of the Civil War. I'll see how far my involvement with this one RP I already got into goes, but whatever.

*tag*

Since Hannelore is closest, she gets Xanthal's copy of the list, which she pages through idly. "Well, you know how work keeps us busy. My job is easy enough most of the time, though. I sit around and make sure the Senate is running smoothly when they're in session, take care of paperwork when they're not, and take vacations when I can. So, what do you make of this?" She holds up the handout.

Carla remarked, "The economic resources seem interesting." She then looked the weapons list over and made her thoughts known, her eyes lighting up, like a child witnessing the coming of a very large candy bar into his or her midst, with a simple: "But the weaponry looks even more interesting."

She then giggled nervously, saying, "My apologies. Do go on."

"Meh," Hannelore sets the D'Haran catalogue aside. "I'll pass this off to Ambassador Umehara later. He'll be a better judge of what's in there than I would." She grabs some more food from the dishes on the table and starts shovelling it in, one sample after another. "Seriously," she speaks around an onion ring, "this stuff is good. They went all out today, eh?"

Deuce and Sephrena casually looked over the list of items and weapons. They discussed each one in turn and than set the list aside. They turned their never ending conversation to the decor. looked at the mugs they had, and noticed the mythic creatures and the floral patterns. On a plain sheet of paper she sketched a massive design incorporating all designs into one. It was a delight to look at.

Then, after having looked at each guest and the host only once, she added everyone into the picture in various ways and decided it was a huge garden party. She then filled it in with lifelike color so realistic you'd swear that picture actually happened. She layed it off to the side.

"Yes there will be a time for that discussion later. What I would be interested in learning from you is some of your history to help me better understand your people. To know where your people came from in order to better understand them today. But that can all be discussed later."

Satisfied now that she was getting their attention, Kahlan went on down the line. She already knew most of these nations present like the Dornalians, Coredians, Xanthal, and Ri-an. However there were still plenty that she did not know. She looked at the Myth Elder. "What about you? What can you tell us of your nation?"

While the talks continued, servants went around the tables to seeing to everyone's needs making sure they had enough to drink and eat. One stopped by Hannelore's section. "Ma'am, is there anything else I can get you? Something to drink?"

Sephrena got up and went up to Kahlan.

"I don't think we've ever met before. My name is Sephrena, and I am the best painter in all of Ri-an and many other places. I was wondering if I could paint your picture." Sephrena asked.

OOC: It would be a picture of her of course, but if you've read of her in my other threads, then you already know all her paintings come true, without exception, even the bad ones. I was thinking of a picture of Richard holding her in his arms, say in their bedroom? I'm sure your going to get him back eventually, and something like that isn't too much of a stretch to imagine happening eventually. It hasn't been painted yet ICly, just an ooc explaination of what her pics are all about. Unless there is some other event that's going to happen to her you'd like Sephrena to paint. The Richard holding Kahlan pic just seemed the most ideal.

The drawing I did earlier isn't prophetic, it wasn't done with her special brush.

Gina listened attentively, too as many of the conversations as she could. She found it very interesting, the culture's and the friendships that had already sprung to life. She looked at each of the delegate, and began trying to sum up who they were and what their personality type was. Although some of these were more difficult than others.

Slowly she reached for the piece of paper that Kahlan gave to the delgates.

She was shocked and surprised by the trade agreements that the Abh were offering. Weapons, new energy sources, and what appeared to be the sum of their military knowledge, as well as their civilian industries. She knew she had in her hand, the golden goose. With these technologies, she could solidify the cylon place in the colonial government. These offerings, if the deal was truly reached, would be the best thing ever to happen to the colonies, and would finally allow the people of the colonies to see the cylons as equals, and perhaps for them to trust the cylons more.

She ran her finger over the paper swloly and gracefully before finally putting it down. This mission was truly a gift from God, she thought to herself.

"Sure, that might be good;" Hannelore agrees without hesitation. "I'll have some milk, or red wine if you don't have any. You know what?" Yates smiles pleasantly at the servant, "Just bring me whatever you think would go well with all this stuff." She looks back at Carla with a wink. "I've practiced drinking alcohol a bit since Sapporo."

Sebastian was mildly off guard when he was asked to speak of his nation. He had taken to private thoughts of contemplating everything he and his people had speculated. They wondered what strange races were out there in the universe and how much different they would be from anything any Myth had ever witnessed. Now gathered around all of the various nations represented here today, he was somewhat disappointed to see that they all looked human in some respect or another. Whether or now they were was a different matter but it was still a disappointment.

So distracted was he that he had taken to studying the design of the furniture and silverware around him that he was not aware that one of the hosts was talking to him. That was, until Sarah silently elbowed him.

Sebastian looked around briefly then straightened himself before standing. Sarah covered her mouth slightly trying to hold back the laugh welling inside her. Her husband wanted to know other races, now here he was.

"Well first I would like to say thank you for the hospitallity. My name is Sebastian and this is my wife Sarah. I am one of the Elders of the Mythrandir however I am the Elder of the human race of my planet. There is one Elder representing each race and each race elects their desired Elder. Currently there are four Elders, myself included, representing the humans, elves, dwarves, and griffons.

As far as our history goes, well like every nation we've had our share of difficult times with each other and foreigners. The most recent conflict coming from an invasion force who we later learned of their identity. At the moment we are simply trying to rebuild what was destroyed during the battles that followed. We are looking for allies after learning that fighting alone is not a preferable situation. However my main concern for coming here was looking out for the best interests of my people, not building a war machine. I would be very much interested in the commercial trade you have offered us."

Finished, Sebastian sat back into the comfortable chair to hopefully leave the spotlight for the moment. His wife placed her hand atop his and gently squeezed it while they waited for the meeting to continue.

"Sure, that might be good;" Hannelore agrees without hesitation. "I'll have some milk, or red wine if you don't have any. You know what?" Yates smiles pleasantly at the servant, "Just bring me whatever you think would go well with all this stuff." She looks back at Carla with a wink. "I've practiced drinking alcohol a bit since Sapporo."

Carla nodded and said to the servant, holding her finger up and smiling, "Bring me a shot of whisky. Barring that, some red wine." She then got some more food, got back, turned to Yates, responding to her comment, "Oh really? That's great; must have taken some getting used to, being a non-drinker beforehand."

She still found it odd Yates had to practice drinking; New Dornalians had a strong stomach for booze, and brewed whisky and beer of all kinds, all strengths and consumed it as much as possible. Sometimes for social occasions, sometimes for the sheer hammering of it all.

Naturally, this was not shared with Yates. Instead, she merely continued, going, "Well, at least we can agree the food's excellent, no?" She then ate a sushi roll and some onion rings. Carla would not miss out on those.

-----

Junko's wanderings around the room, sampling the food, led her near Gina's table. As she passed by, she noticed the woman from the Colonies. She was news to Junko, and frankly, though she looked like a human, she seemed...off. This person didn't have a human's Force emanations, and indeed, anything potentially psychic that came from her....seemed unusual. Interested, she noted the cylon in her memory, and moved on before walking up to Deuce and saying, "Hi, I'm Junko Tadanobu from the People's Acolytes. You seem...familiar?"

Kahlan continued to listen to the representatives as Sephrena spoke. "Sure, that's fine but later."

As Sebastian finished, Kahlan nodded her thanks. "Thank you and thank you for coming. I look forward to talking later."

Looking around the room for more unfamiliar nations, Kahlan's green eyes settled on the woman from the Colonials. "How about you? What can you tell us about our nation?"

The servant nodded his understanding and left for a brief moment. He quickly returned with a large mug of some sort of fruit beverage along with a thin glass of white win that was moister and tastier than the average red wine.

"Yes there will be a time for that discussion later. What I would be interested in learning from you is some of your history to help me better understand your people. To know where your people came from in order to better understand them today. But that can all be discussed later."

Varius nodded. “Agreed. My nation's history is too complex to put into a short summary. I shall explain it in detail when we have that meeting.” Kahlan left and left Varius to his own devices. Reaching over, he grabbed a glass of white whine, while Marshal picked up a glass of water. Raising his voice, Varius spoke.

“If any nations are interested in seeking to open relations with the Imperium of Terra, they may approach me at any time. Thank you.” With that said, he walked over to a table, sat and called over a servant, ordering his meal, and Marshals, after asking the Lieutenant what he wanted.

Junko's wanderings around the room, sampling the food, led her near Gina's table. As she passed by, she noticed the woman from the Colonies. She was news to Junko, and frankly, though she looked like a human, she seemed...off. This person didn't have a human's Force emanations, and indeed, anything potentially psychic that came from her....seemed unusual. Interested, she noted the cylon in her memory, and moved on before walking up to Deuce and saying, "Hi, I'm Junko Tadanobu from the People's Acolytes. You seem...familiar?"

"Possibly, you may remember the old Deuce, from before the great merging. As you may or may not know, a massive invasion from the Mirror universe occured, and our parody selves lead the invasion. In the end it was both Lady Ri-an's fighting for dominance, they ended up killing each other, and in their mutual deaths, they merged into one complete being, thus causing all other things ri-anese to merge inot one complete being. I am the product of the merge between Disco Deuce, and Polititian straight laced no fun at all Deuce. As I'm sure you can guess, that means a more serious deuce still capable of partying with the best. Unfortunatly, we don't remember everything, so if we met sometime before, I don't remember." Deuce said.

Then he stood, and shook her hand.

"It is a pleasure to remake your aquantence, or, formally make your aquantence for the first time." Deuce said shaking her hand.
As he with drew his hand, there was a card there.

Deuce Ri-an, Crown prince of the merged realms of Ri-an.

Kahlan continued to listen to the representatives as Sephrena spoke. "Sure, that's fine but later."

As Sebastian finished, Kahlan nodded her thanks. "Thank you and thank you for coming. I look forward to talking later."

Looking around the room for more unfamiliar nations, Kahlan's green eyes settled on the woman from the Colonials. "How about you? What can you tell us about our nation?"

The servant nodded his understanding and left for a brief moment. He quickly returned with a large mug of some sort of fruit beverage along with a thin glass of white win that was moister and tastier than the average red wine.

Sephrena nodded. She stepped out to an out of the way area, and occasionally glancing out at Kahlan, painted a picture dipicting Kahlan's missing husband holding Kahlan in his arms, in their bedroom. Sephrena signed it, and covered it with a cloth.

she had only intended to paint Kahlan sitting on the dais, but then she saw this strange man holding Kahlan in his arms, in what she assumed was their bedroom. She had never met richard before, or seen him, but the picture was so realistic, it was as if it was photographed from the future.
She kept it by her until Kahlan was ready to take it.

"It is a pleasure to remake your aquantence, or, formally make your aquantence for the first time." Deuce said shaking her hand.
As he with drew his hand, there was a card there.

Deuce Ri-an, Crown prince of the merged realms of Ri-an.

Junko's eye's raised, and she said, "Yes, I do remember your past, party-loving self. He may have faced one of my greatest warriors in a competition on this very planet. Well, anywho, it's nice to meet you, Mr. Deuce." She then extended her hand in greetings.

Junko's eye's raised, and she said, "Yes, I do remember your past, party-loving self. He may have faced one of my greatest warriors in a competition on this very planet. Well, anywho, it's nice to meet you, Mr. Deuce." She then extended her hand in greetings.

"Nope, sorry, no memories of a competition. Oh well. It would appear most people are interested in the items on the list. Thankful I am, that the one thing we would be truely intrested in, is not on the list. But that is a dark and forboding subject, and we should not darken these pleasant times with its content. Instead, let us turn to brighter subjects. How are things on your worlds?" Deuce asked.

OOC: The subject of course, directly relates to the subject of my last thread, which I am going to start over the weekend.

"Indeed we can," Hannelore beams. She takes the fruit drink from the servant with a nod of thanks. "Want to take a break and join us for a bit?"

"Nope, sorry, no memories of a competition. Oh well. It would appear most people are interested in the items on the list. Thankful I am, that the one thing we would be truely intrested in, is not on the list. But that is a dark and forboding subject, and we should not darken these pleasant times with its content. Instead, let us turn to brighter subjects. How are things on your worlds?" Deuce asked.

OOC: The subject of course, directly relates to the subject of my last thread, which I am going to start over the weekend.

Junko said, with some sorrow, "Alas, war has descended upon us. We are currently locked in struggle with the ESUS, though things seemed to have slowed up. One of our worlds, New Wuhan, was torched in the fighting, though it is being rebuilt. Our civil economy took a hit, but it's fine now. Military economy is doing fine. The Andromeda Colony and the new lands of Nova Louisiana are assuredly fine as well, and we may expand soon to the Aphotic with the area of New Kazakhstan."

She perked up, speaking: "Also, needless to say, a peculiar new form of music, norteno-mezcla has become the new rage."

Varius nodded. “Agreed. My nation's history is too complex to put into a short summary. I shall explain it in detail when we have that meeting.” Kahlan left and left Varius to his own devices. Reaching over, he grabbed a glass of white whine, while Marshal picked up a glass of water. Raising his voice, Varius spoke.

“If any nations are interested in seeking to open relations with the Imperium of Terra, they may approach me at any time. Thank you.” With that said, he walked over to a table, sat and called over a servant, ordering his meal, and Marshals, after asking the Lieutenant what he wanted.

Gina after hearing Various' gracious offer for diplomatic contact, got up from her table and began to slowly and gracefully walk over to his table. She smiled as she approached him, and leaned against his table.

I would love to begin to open a dialogue, she says to the Telrosian Representitive, as she stares at him in his eyes. Considering our nations have already met in the past, it should be a bit easier, than say starting fresh, she replies in a soft spoken voice. She sits down at the table and orders the fruit salad, after which she looks at Varius, Which of us should start lying to the other first, she asks in a jovial tone, alluding to his previous "joke".

Junko said, with some sorrow, "Alas, war has descended upon us. We are currently locked in struggle with the ESUS, though things seemed to have slowed up. One of our worlds, New Wuhan, was torched in the fighting, though it is being rebuilt. Our civil economy took a hit, but it's fine now. Military economy is doing fine. The Andromeda Colony and the new lands of Nova Louisiana are assuredly fine as well, and we may expand soon to the Aphotic with the area of New Kazakhstan."

She perked up, speaking: "Also, needless to say, a peculiar new form of music, norteno-mezcla has become the new rage."

"A colony in Andromeda Galaxy? That's where the Ri-an homeworld is. I hope the space creatures haven't disturbed you folks too much, their scattered all over Andromeda." Deuce said.

Gina after hearing Various' gracious offer for diplomatic contact, got up from her table and began to slowly and gracefully walk over to his table. She smiled as she approached him, and leaned against his table.

I would love to begin to open a dialogue, she says to the Telrosian Representitive, as she stares at him in his eyes. Considering our nations have already met in the past, it should be a bit easier, than say starting fresh, she replies in a soft spoken voice. She sits down at the table and orders the fruit salad, after which she looks at Varius, Which of us should start lying to the other first, she asks in a jovial tone, alluding to his previous "joke".

Varius grinned at her. "Well, why don't you start and I will show you how it's done.?" He chuckled and waved a hand. "I think you have heard my bad jokes enough." Shifting, he sipped his wine and then spoke up, his eyes serious, all signs of joking gone. He was in business mode now.

"So, what would you like to speak about to the Imperium?"

Varius grinned at her. "Well, why don't you start and I will show you how it's done.?" He chuckled and waved a hand. "I think you have heard my bad jokes enough." Shifting, he sipped his wine and then spoke up, his eyes serious, all signs of joking gone. He was in business mode now.

"So, what would you like to speak about to the Imperium?"

Gina replied, There are a great many things that we can discuss with ease, she replied. From the mission reports of the Battlestar Pacifica, in that very tense situation in your space, for which I am very sorry for our part in that, we have learned that you are somewhat similiar to us. You have survived the horrors of this universe, and although you are interested in peace you do not back down from conflict. You seem to be a culture that we can do business with, she remarked.

Gina replied, There are a great many things that we can discuss with ease, she replied. From the mission reports of the Battlestar Pacifica, in that very tense situation in your space, for which I am very sorry for our part in that, we have learned that you are somewhat similiar to us. You have survived the horrors of this universe, and although you are interested in peace you do not back down from conflict. You seem to be a culture that we can do business with, she remarked.


"Well, I suppose we can forgive and forget. We are just a little jumpy, being invaded does that to you, even if you won." Varius shook his head. "What a loss of life in the Harvest system...but the enemy chose their path, I suppose." He sighed, sipping more wine. "It's that and the fact its our system. I am sure the Captain made it clear that its our way or the highway. I would hate for them to fire on you or anyone in that system but if that is what it takes, so be it." At her mentioning of surviving the horrors, he sighed, eyes going faraway.

"You have no idea....the horrors we have seen transcend existence itself. As one of the older members of my race in the Imperium, I encountered the horrors which most can only read about. The impact...is much more prevalent on the veterans of the War." He snapped back to attention, chuckling.

"But why be so gloomy? Business you say? What kind of business?"

Well we could do a number of things, she replied smiling humbly. She ran her hand over to the piece of paper the Abh and provided, and slid it over to her. This summit has unlimited potential. This is perhaps one of the greatest summits that the colonies could have attended, and yet as a cylon she says, I was still ordered to come here. I plan on making the most of my time, not only to prove our "trustworthyness" to the humans, but to also strengthen our place in the Colonies.

I would like to purpose a couple of agreements, one economical, to allow free trade between the imperium of Telros, and the Twelve Colonies of Kobal. The other might be a bit harder, but if we iron out the details it might be possible, which would be a mutual defense pact.

She knew she was being bold, but this gambit would indeed provide an insight into what the Telrosians desire. Would they bite, only time would tell.

"Indeed we can," Hannelore beams. She takes the fruit drink from the servant with a nod of thanks. "Want to take a break and join us for a bit?"

Carla then said, "Actually, I was going to present something, a GFFA recruitment pitch. Do you mind joining me?"

Varius stroked his beard, looking over the two offers. This cylon was very bold indeed. Most of the diplomats trained in the Imperial Diplomacy core would have flatly refused if not for two reasons. One, they were suspicious that the colonies may be trying to unwittingly force them to join in a war with the defense pact.

Two, the diplomats would state that they had no such authority for such a treaty...when most did.

However, Varius was not that kind of man. Leaning forward, he gazed at Gina. "The free trade one sounds perfect, we are eager to increase trade with other nations. Consider that one signed. The other one, however, we do need to discuss."

Swirling the wine in his cup, he spoke again. "What would this treaty entail, for both sides?"

Gina smiled. "May I?" as she reached for the bottle of wine on the table. She began to pour a small glass of red wine, into the crystal glass. "These people are very much like the Colonials," she thought to herself. A wary diplomat would have been cautious around such a bold and upfront offer.

His willingness to hear such a mutual defense pact, while knowing very little of the Colonies of Kobal can only mean one or two things. They are too trusting either in their own abilities or in the other party, or he was waiting to see her hand. If she was bluffing, or if she had full colors.

Diplomacy really is like a game of cards. You always try to gain the upperhand and win the pot, while not driving your opponent to fold. If you bluff you can win, but you could also lose the entire pot. She had to be careful with her words, enough to entice him, yet not so much as to be obvious.

Gina took a small sip of the red wine, and tasted it, embraced the flavor, allowing it to become one with her. The taste flowed through her, and it was divine.

"What does any treaty hold for both sides, except prosperity," she replied. Let me begin, she smiles, if that is you do not mind me making the first move, she says in a flirtatious tone of voice.

"The Colonies are not at war with anyone right now. Like you, we will not back down from conflict, but we do not desire it either. Apathy would be a good word to describe it, apathetic towards conflict, she replied. For the first time in over a century the colonies are at peace, We cylons have laid down are arms against our fathers and mothers the Colonials, and have decided to live in peace with them, for their and our benefit.

"However even with such new peace, there is always those who resist change, and that is always the "best" of human characteristics," she stated in a scarcastic tone. The colonies, are also prospering since our unification, a new technological breakthrough. Human imagination, when teamed up with cylon science, is creating well lets just say, quite a few innovations. However even with all of these good graces, the universe is a deadly place, with powers and terrors that break the point of imagination, she replies. It is because of these threats, that the colonies desires to make friends and potentially allies abroad.

John (who was now sitting on a chair) was bored and lonely. He wanted to join the others, but he didn't know anyone. He decided that he had enough water for one day and ordered a glass of whatever wine they had. He now sat there, drinking in all of his loneliness.

When she motioned for the wine, he waved dismissively. "Sure, I am all set for wine right now. Besides, drinking alone is never fun." He winked at her and took a sip of his glass. As she begins to speak, he listens carefully, though he does not show it.

"What does any treaty hold for both sides, except prosperity," she replied. Let me begin, she smiles, if that is you do not mind me making the first move, she says in a flirtatious tone of voice.

Varius sighed. "You may go first but spare me the 'its good for both sides' excuse. We both are too smart and too late in the game to be fooled by such vague promises. I need hard details, milady, not fanciful dreams."


"The Colonies are not at war with anyone right now. Like you, we will not back down from conflict, but we do not desire it either. Apathy would be a good word to describe it, apathetic towards conflict, she replied. For the first time in over a century the colonies are at peace, We cylons have laid down are arms against our fathers and mothers the Colonials, and have decided to live in peace with them, for their and our benefit.

"However even with such new peace, there is always those who resist change, and that is always the "best" of human characteristics," she stated in a scarcastic tone. The colonies, are also prospering since our unification, a new technological breakthrough. Human imagination, when teamed up with cylon science, is creating well lets just say, quite a few innovations. However even with all of these good graces, the universe is a deadly place, with powers and terrors that break the point of imagination, she replies. It is because of these threats, that the colonies desires to make friends and potentially allies abroad.

He smiled grimly. "Yeah...we humans sure do have our flaws. Resisting change is something we have lost the will to do a long time ago. It was either change or die. And we didn't really like the tone of the latter.

A few innovations, you say? That's always nice." Leaning forward, he put his drink down.

"Milady. I'll be frank. I am not going to seriously consider this offer unless you give me some details. What you want it to do, for both sides, what each side will be responsible for, and why you want it. Until then, no deal. I am glad you can play the game but I have seen it all before. And I don't really want to see something I have seen thousands of times. It gets boring after the the first four."

John (who was now sitting on a chair) was bored and lonely. He wanted to join the others, but he didn't know anyone. He decided that he had enough water for one day and ordered a glass of whatever wine they had. He now sat there, drinking in all of his loneliness.

"Lonely, isn't it?" asked Sephrena next to him. She was drinking water.
Deuce sure knew how to pick a gorgeous escort. Not that they had a special relationship or anything. they were just friends.

Gina looks at Various, looking into his eyes, the very window of his soul. "You are very straight forward, so I will be frank. I am interested in a mutual defense pact with your nation. That should the time arise, we can count on each other to defend our claims on this universe, but only in a defensive action. If you declare war on another nation, then we will not be bound to that declaration of war, nor would you, if we declare war on another society. This pact would only cover defensive actions, based on self defense.

Secondly, we have a neutral space station, in which embassadors may speak with the colonies. This space station is also where all trade goods to the colonies must pass through and be inspected to prevent contraband from entering the colonies. For a period of no less than 10 years, the space station will house diplomats on both sides. If all is well between our respective governments at the end of the 10 year period, then the Colonies of Kobal will give you tracks of land in order to build a more permanent embassy on Caprica itself, as well will reveal the location of the Twelve Colonies to your nation, unless we are invaded first and need your aid.

She smiles, is that forward enough?

"Lonely, isn't it?" asked Sephrena next to him. She was drinking water.
Deuce sure knew how to pick a gorgeous escort. Not that they had a special relationship or anything. they were just friends.

It took John a few minutes to realize someone was talking to him, but when he did his mood changed very quickly.

"Why yes it is? Hmmm, I'm sorry, I don't think we have met before. What's your name? I'm John," John said to Sephrena who he saw was drinking water. He put a hand out as to gesture for a handshake.

Carla then said, "Actually, I was going to present something, a GFFA recruitment pitch. Do you mind joining me?""Why not?" Hannelore assents. "Lead on."

Varius listened as she laid out what it would do, not even blinking as she explained everything in detail. It was an interesting treaty and one of immense potential....and chance to be embroiled in an unwinable war. "Well, that sounds fine. So, promise to defend each other if attacked, fair enough. And a space station that goods will come through and must come through to be inspected. I should hope it works for the same for Colonial goods coming into the Imperium. They will need to be inspected as well.

Ten years? That sounds fine." He finished off his wine. "That was indeed very forward and I thank you for being forward. I do so hate political wrangling in all its forms." He gazed up at her. "A neutral station and a defense treaty. That sounds fine. If there is nothing else, I am willing to sign the treaty or however you seal the deal these days."

It took John a few minutes to realize someone was talking to him, but when he did his mood changed very quickly.

"Why yes it is? Hmmm, I'm sorry, I don't think we have met before. What's your name? I'm John," John said to Sephrena who he saw was drinking water. He put a hand out as to gesture for a handshake.

"My Name is Sephrena, I'm not really a diplomat, just here with a friend. I prefere to paint, I'm really quite good at it to. I learned from four of the greatest masters in history, Leonardo Da Vinci, Michelangelo di Lodovico Buonarroti Simoni, Raphael Sanzio, Donato di Niccolò di Betto Bardi, or simply, Leonardo, Michelangelo, Raphael, and Donatello. I've gotten too many turtle jokes over that. But I've also taken lessons from Salvador Dali and Maurits Cornelis Escher." Sephrena said.

She shakes his hand, her grip is surprisingly strong, for a woman.

"My Name is Sephrena, I'm not really a diplomat, just here with a friend. I prefere to paint, I'm really quite good at it to. I learned from four of the greatest masters in history, Leonardo Da Vinci, Michelangelo di Lodovico Buonarroti Simoni, Raphael Sanzio, Donato di Niccolò di Betto Bardi, or simply, Leonardo, Michelangelo, Raphael, and Donatello. I've gotten too many turtle jokes over that. But I've also taken lessons from Salvador Dali and Maurits Cornelis Escher." Sephrena said.

She shakes his hand, her grip is surprisingly strong, for a woman.

John smiled as he took back his hand and said, "so you paint? How nice and if you don't mind me asking, what is your style of painting? I mostly like to keep up with current events as well as keep track of history. Actually, I'm a historian when I'm not doing 'things' like this."

John smiled as he took back his hand and said, "so you paint? How nice and if you don't mind me asking, what is your style of painting? I mostly like to keep up with current events as well as keep track of history. Actually, I'm a historian when I'm not doing 'things' like this."

"It varies from picture to picture. Some people believe my pictures foretell things to come." Sephrena said.

"It varies from picture to picture. Some people believe my pictures foretell things to come." Sephrena said.

"Well, then you just might have a gift and maybe you can make me a painting one day. So, what are you doing here?" John asked taking a drink from his wine glass.

"Why not?" Hannelore assents. "Lead on."

Carla then got up, and tapped a glass. She then coughed and said, "Excuse me, please. I would like to say something."

She then bowed, and breathing in, said, "Hi. I'm Carla Tumlinson Baileygates, Consul of the GFFA. As some of you may or may not know, I am one of the two Consuls of the Galactic Federation of Free Alliances. Now, I know you may or may have not heard things about our group. Well, while I'm here, I would like to set the record straight on what the GFFA is all about.

The Galactic Federation is a coalition of nations, with a central governing structure that can best be described as democratic-republican, with a legislative branch consisting of a Senate that every member is a part of that votes on proposals, an executive branch, which I am part of, and a judicial branch represented by a Quaestor--our version of a Attorney General, or equivalent personnel--that arbitrates disputes. We also have personnel that, in times of war, plan military actions with the member nations involved in order to create the best pan-Alliance strategy.

You may have heard that we're a bit fracticious at times, but really when things come down to it, we do get things done. After all, the Alliance is still functioning, and despite our present circumstances, we're very much alive, are we not?

But now you may ask, why am I speaking to you now? Well, I would like to announce that anyone who wishes to join the Galactic Federation is welcome to. We're seeking active, committed members who want an alliance that will protect them, give them a community of people to trade technology and goods with, and demand only in return participation and some contributions to help support our common defense. That's it. We won't boss you around like some alliances will, and in this alliance, you can actually trust in coherent, purpose-driven leadership that listens and functions. You get a voice and we will listen. You make proposals, we will act on them. You think the policy of one of our officers is BS--say so! Unlike other alliances, we have not only strong executives, but dare I say it--accountability!

So if you want an alliance that promises the coherence of united action and also gives you the peace of mind that comes with national sovereignity, look no further than the GFFA. If you have any questions, feel free to ask me or my colleague, Praetor Hannelore Yates. We'd be happy to answer any questions you may have."

She then turned to Hannelore, and looked at her, saying "Think you're up to it, Hannelore?"

As Varius was discussing the terms of the treaty with Gina, Marshal heard the words of the New Dornalian representative and he stroked his chin, thinking. After several moments, he turned and tapped Varius on the shoulder. The man gazed at him, annoyed. When Marshal whispered in his ear, the annoyance vanished. "Hmm....alright, I give you the authority to do so. But don't agree to anything too damning. I'll be busy here for a bit. If you are not done when I am, I will join you." He nodded.

"Yes sir." Pulling the strap for his battle rifle back up his shoulder, he walked over to the New Dornalian. Saluting, he spoke. "Greetings, I am Lieutenant Chris Marshal, 32nd ODST division. I am interested in your offer and have been granted authority to represent the Imperium of Terra in our talks. If that is alright with you, ma'am...."

"Yes sir." Pulling the strap for his battle rifle back up his shoulder, he walked over to the New Dornalian. Saluting, he spoke. "Greetings, I am Lieutenant Chris Marshal, 32nd ODST division. I am interested in your offer and have been granted authority to represent the Imperium of Terra in our talks. If that is alright with you, ma'am...."

Carla smiled and said, clapping her hands together, "Hello, hello!" Extending her hand in a hearty handshake, she looked him in the eye warmly and said, "Well, Lieutenant Marshal, it is perfectly alright with me if you have been given permission to represent the Imperium of Terra. So long as you have the authority to negotiate terms, I'm not at all concerned."

She then pulled out a chair and motioned to it, saying, "Would you like to have a seat? We are going to have a chat, so we may as well be comfortable during it, no?"

Marshall nodded and sat down. Looking at them, he began to speak. It was obvious he wasn't very subtle and was honest to the core. "Ma'am, I am going to be blunt. I am interested in going into this alliance, but I need to know what kind of benefits and duties we have to worry about. Also, I know of your war with the ESUS, which we have entered. I don't know if this will hamper anything. I can have our government announce neutrality to counter this, but I felt you should know."

Carla leaned back and thought to herself, tapping her chin like she always did when she mulled over big issues. This was a biggie. The Imperials, it seemed, were part of the ESUS, and no doubt active combatants, though of what nature was beyond her ken at this time. However, to deny the ESUS an active combatant would be nothing short of, well, beneficial.

She then leaned forward and asked Marshal, "Lieutenant, before we go on, I am curious. You say the Imperium of Terra is an active combatant in the present ESUS-GFFA War. In what way?"

He shook his head. "No, no. We are not involved in the war at all! I offered to declare neutrality in the war as part of our deal. We have not and do not intend, to attack the GFFA."

There was a nation running late to the conference, the Novaens, whether it was because of a mis-understanding on the date or time, or some other reason. It was not really clear. What was however was the two representatives sent. One was human and the other a Sauron, as many of the GFFA already knew the sauron looked exactly like a dinosaur, in which it was but the two of them seemed to share a connection.

They find seats nearby Sephrena and John.

"Sorry for being late." they said together, it almost was like they knew each other in so much intimite detail that they no longer had seperate identities but where in truth and essence, one being.

He shook his head. "No, no. We are not involved in the war at all! I offered to declare neutrality in the war as part of our deal. We have not and do not intend, to attack the GFFA."
"Well," Hannelore picks up in Carla's hesitation, "the duties are fairly simple. Your government will have full rights of participation in alliance government, and will be expected to abide by the decisions of the alliance. Unfortunately, simply staying out of the war won't be an option if you choose to join. You'll have to contribute, and you'll have to pledge a portion of your armed forces to the Federation's Joint Forces, which can be called up by the Consul or the Joint Forces Commander. In return, your country will recieve alliance support in the event of hostile invasion or other crisis."

The Lieutenant's face became strained and wary. "We are....wary of such things. We do not like sending our people to serve under other commanders, we are a rather tight-knit nation. If we pledge our forces, then who will be commanding them? As for this war...we intend to remain firmly out of it. We cannot do much in the way of aiding either side, as only a small portion of our strength can be spared if we have to worry about powerful titans like the Mindsetti.

I also have to make it clear, I cannot and will not agree to anything that involves fighting the ESUS. I can send forces to protect you from other threats. But I am not allowed to do anything that interferes with our alliance."

The Lieutenant's face became strained and wary. "We are....wary of such things. We do not like sending our people to serve under other commanders, we are a rather tight-knit nation. If we pledge our forces, then who will be commanding them? As for this war...we intend to remain firmly out of it. We cannot do much in the way of aiding either side, as only a small portion of our strength can be spared if we have to worry about powerful titans like the Mindsetti.

I also have to make it clear, I cannot and will not agree to anything that involves fighting the ESUS. I can send forces to protect you from other threats. But I am not allowed to do anything that interferes with our alliance."

Carla nodded and said, "Well, let's make this clear. Your troops would fight under their own commanders, we would not send Dornalians or Abh or Xanthalians to command your men. After all, your commanders know their own best. Indeed, the Joint Commanders must listen to said national commanders and political leaders in the Senate when planning war strategy.

In addition, we have other ways for you to contribute. We could always have you contribute resources to research and development, as well as aid and civil engineering and construction projects. Also, New Wuhan is still being fixed. We could use some help.

Also, we have a defense network going up right now known as the Federal Border Defense System, or FEDBED for short. It's a simple early warning network service program we're initiating for all members (with limited defensive capabilities), and it's funded through member "franchises" if you can say that. Each member gets to build their own section, though admittedly there is a minimum standard to reach (other members can help with that though).

Your five percent can be used to help get a FEDBED section up and running. If you're worried about helping our war effort, that won't be an issue, since you'd technically be really only have to be responsible for your section of the network--assistance to other states is purely voluntary, welcome but nonetheless voluntary--so you would not have to do it if it is against your constraints. It would not have to involve fighting the ESUS, for the system has a number of other applications besides the present conflict. Say better border security in general, for example, or if you're trying to curb illegal immigrants or smugglers, this can help get them as well. Also, it can be useful for detecting other enemy nations' attacks as well."

"Well, then you just might have a gift and maybe you can make me a painting one day. So, what are you doing here?" John asked taking a drink from his wine glass.

There was a nation running late to the conference, the Novaens, whether it was because of a mis-understanding on the date or time, or some other reason. It was not really clear. What was however was the two representatives sent. One was human and the other a Sauron, as many of the GFFA already knew the sauron looked exactly like a dinosaur, in which it was but the two of them seemed to share a connection.

They find seats nearby Sephrena and John.

"Sorry for being late." they said together, it almost was like they knew each other in so much intimite detail that they no longer had seperate identities but where in truth and essence, one being.

"Oh, you know, just escorting my friend, Deuce Ri-an, the crown prince of Ri-an. He decided to come personally." She said.

Noting the addition of the two Novaens, she suddenly dug in her pockets.

"That's the scene I saw!" She said excitedly.

she pulled out a small stack of pictures and rifled through them. She arrived at one picture and pulled it out. She put the rest of the pictures away. The Picture was of a party, like this one. There were four people, one a woman, one a sauron. The four people looked remarkably like John, Sephrena, and the two Novaens.

"I painted that four years ago, when I attempted to do a self-portrait." She said.

Deuce walked over, appearently having been forgotten in his other conversation.

"So, what's up over here?" Deuce asked.

With the larger conference appearing to fragment into its own subareas, Sebastian decided to finish the conversation that had begun earlier. He positioned his chair in order to better see and speak with ambassador Umehara. Sarah pulled up close to his side but remained behind his shoulder to allow her husband the freedom to speak.

"It seems everyone has divided up into their own conversations, ambassador. I never got the opportunity to ask about you or your people. I have never heard of your nation before though I have not heard of many of these nations represented today to be honest. Do you mind telling me more about yourself and your people?"

Carla nodded and said, "Well, let's make this clear. Your troops would fight under their own commanders, we would not send Dornalians or Abh or Xanthalians to command your men. After all, your commanders know their own best. Indeed, the Joint Commanders must listen to said national commanders and political leaders in the Senate when planning war strategy.

In addition, we have other ways for you to contribute. We could always have you contribute resources to research and development, as well as aid and civil engineering and construction projects. Also, New Wuhan is still being fixed. We could use some help.

Also, we have a defense network going up right now known as the Federal Border Defense System, or FEDBED for short. It's a simple early warning network service program we're initiating for all members (with limited defensive capabilities), and it's funded through member "franchises" if you can say that. Each member gets to build their own section, though admittedly there is a minimum standard to reach (other members can help with that though).

Your five percent can be used to help get a FEDBED section up and running. If you're worried about helping our war effort, that won't be an issue, since you'd technically be really only have to be responsible for your section of the network--assistance to other states is purely voluntary, welcome but nonetheless voluntary--so you would not have to do it if it is against your constraints. It would not have to involve fighting the ESUS, for the system has a number of other applications besides the present conflict. Say better border security in general, for example, or if you're trying to curb illegal immigrants or smugglers, this can help get them as well. Also, it can be useful for detecting other enemy nations' attacks as well."

Marshal eased up and let out a breath. "Good. We just want to avoid such things as rogue commanders who are inept and trying to take over our nations and such. Not that we think it will happen with you, just that we want to be careful.

As for research and development, we would be glad to help in that field. We are already looking into several improvements of our technology, with aid from the UNSC alliance." He paused when they mentioned New Wuhan. "What happened to New Wuhan, may I ask? Of course, we do not mind aiding at all. We have terraforming technology that can transform even the most barren planet into a rich, lush paradise." He paused, reaching over to grab a glass and fill it with. Taking a drink, he sighed and continued.

At the mention of the FEDBED, he scrunched up his face, thinking. "What do these warning systems consist of? In the Imperium we have early warning border posts that can see over several star systems, and we have an overlapping network of them, to watch for invasions. Is that the system you are looking for? It sounds good, though. One can never have too many defenses; we learned that lesson from the Covenant War." Swirling the glass, he continued.

"As I have said, we will help in other endeavors and wars, such as the FEDBED and security. Is there anything else? What will happen if we join? Do we need to change or do anything?"

"Oh, you know, just escorting my friend, Deuce Ri-an, the crown prince of Ri-an. He decided to come personally." She said.

Noting the addition of the two Novaens, she suddenly dug in her pockets.

"That's the scene I saw!" She said excitedly.

she pulled out a small stack of pictures and rifled through them. She arrived at one picture and pulled it out. She put the rest of the pictures away. The Picture was of a party, like this one. There were four people, one a woman, one a sauron. The four people looked remarkably like John, Sephrena, and the two Novaens.

"I painted that four years ago, when I attempted to do a self-portrait." She said.

Deuce walked over, appearently having been forgotten in his other conversation.

"So, what's up over here?" Deuce asked.

John had a look of shock all over his face.

"Wow, you really do have a gift there. Is this a gift you control or does it just pop up in your mind once in awhile?" John asked with now a look of curiosity.

Varius listened as she laid out what it would do, not even blinking as she explained everything in detail. It was an interesting treaty and one of immense potential....and chance to be embroiled in an unwinable war. "Well, that sounds fine. So, promise to defend each other if attacked, fair enough. And a space station that goods will come through and must come through to be inspected. I should hope it works for the same for Colonial goods coming into the Imperium. They will need to be inspected as well.

Ten years? That sounds fine." He finished off his wine. "That was indeed very forward and I thank you for being forward. I do so hate political wrangling in all its forms." He gazed up at her. "A neutral station and a defense treaty. That sounds fine. If there is nothing else, I am willing to sign the treaty or however you seal the deal these days."


Gina takes another sip of wine. Of course you may inspect goods going to the Imperium, it is a neutral station after all, and your section will truly be your own. As she finishes off the last drop of the red wine from her glass, she smiles. That is it, she replies. Quick and easy, with no fine print. She slides Various a piece of paper, with all of the details of the treaty. The only thing unusual about it, is the four corners on the paper, seem to be cut off, but besides that everything that was discussed was written on the paper.

Varius raised an eyebrow at the cut corners but didn't say anything. He read the treaty one last time, ensuring there was nothing to try and trick the Imperium into something final and damning, and then signed it. Once he was done, he pushed back towards Gina.

After Various gave the treay back to Gina, she smiled. Within a moment, she pulled out an identical copy and handed it to Various, for his government to maintain on record. She smiled, and reached out her hand in a gesture to shake his. Thank you so much, it was a pleasure to do business with you.

As Gina got up, she turned and began walking toward Kahlan Amnell. Any person who could organize such a large, and profitable party, and also offer the toys and gifts with such open arms would surely be a beneficial relationship to the colonies, Gina thought to herself.

She walked up to Kahlan, and held out her hand. "Hello, I am Gina the representitive of the Twelve Colonies of Kobal. Our people are working in unision in the Asfaltum sector, and if it were possible I would like to solidify our relationship."

John had a look of shock all over his face.

"Wow, you really do have a gift there. Is this a gift you control or does it just pop up in your mind once in awhile?" John asked with now a look of curiosity.

"Every painting I have ever painted has come true, or will come true. I don't choose what to paint, I just see future events yet to happen, and they do happen. Unfortunatly, I see some pretty evil events happen to, and those get painted too. I don't want them to happen, they just do. I once made a self-fulfilling prophecy picture. It depicted a woman with strawberry blond hair slipping on a banana peel. I forewarned her because it looked like a rather nasty fall. In her efforts to avoid slipping on said banana peel, she stepped on a Banana Slug and slipped, falling face first into the ground. I gave up trying to help after that." Sephrena said.

OOC: So, if I were to paint his picture, I would need a scene of something that is to happen to him sometime in the future, preferably something pleasant to look forward to. Sephrena is actually from my Fantasy tech side, which is where her painting skills come from. Something small like the four of us in that painting wasn't too major, so I went ahead and did it, just as a small demonstration of what she meant.

With the larger conference appearing to fragment into its own subareas, Sebastian decided to finish the conversation that had begun earlier. He positioned his chair in order to better see and speak with ambassador Umehara. Sarah pulled up close to his side but remained behind his shoulder to allow her husband the freedom to speak.

"It seems everyone has divided up into their own conversations, ambassador. I never got the opportunity to ask about you or your people. I have never heard of your nation before though I have not heard of many of these nations represented today to be honest. Do you mind telling me more about yourself and your people?"
"Of course not," the Xanthalian Ambassador says with an appreciative smile. "The Socialist Republic of Xanthal is a moderate federal democracy that unites the planets Freeland, Megukuga, Renku, Shinra, and Wakimaishu. Each planet has a different background, and thus a unique culture and social order, though Xanthal guarantees democratic representation as well as certain liberties and responsibilities, and lower governments must abide by the laws passed by the state legislature. At present, the state is governed by an executive Triumvirate charged with the administration of foreign policy, a monocameral legislature, and an independent judiciary. We are currently undergoing Constitutional reform that will add a second legislative body and secure greater autonomy for the individual planets under Xanthalian control."

Umehara laughs. "I don't know if that really answers your questions, but you can feel free to inquire further. First though, may I trouble you for information about your own country?"

Marshal eased up and let out a breath. "Good. We just want to avoid such things as rogue commanders who are inept and trying to take over our nations and such. Not that we think it will happen with you, just that we want to be careful.

As for research and development, we would be glad to help in that field. We are already looking into several improvements of our technology, with aid from the UNSC alliance." He paused when they mentioned New Wuhan. "What happened to New Wuhan, may I ask? Of course, we do not mind aiding at all. We have terraforming technology that can transform even the most barren planet into a rich, lush paradise." He paused, reaching over to grab a glass and fill it with. Taking a drink, he sighed and continued.

At the mention of the FEDBED, he scrunched up his face, thinking. "What do these warning systems consist of? In the Imperium we have early warning border posts that can see over several star systems, and we have an overlapping network of them, to watch for invasions. Is that the system you are looking for? It sounds good, though. One can never have too many defenses; we learned that lesson from the Covenant War." Swirling the glass, he continued.

"As I have said, we will help in other endeavors and wars, such as the FEDBED and security. Is there anything else? What will happen if we join? Do we need to change or do anything?"

"What you'll have to do is sort of hard to say," Hannelore explains. "You won't have to make any significant reforms to your own government or domestic policy when you join, but like I said, your government will be bound to the decisions made by the GFFA as long as it's a member of the alliance. You will be involved, though. The Imperium will have the right to participate in debate, cast its vote on legislation, and sponsor candidates for office in the Federation's government. The Federation usually gives members quite a bit of wiggle room with decisions they're unhappy with. Sometimes I think a little too much," she adds with a dubious glance at Joshua, who is currently occupied with systematically trying every drink available at his table.

"What you'll have to do is sort of hard to say," Hannelore explains. "You won't have to make any significant reforms to your own government or domestic policy when you join, but like I said, your government will be bound to the decisions made by the GFFA as long as it's a member of the alliance. You will be involved, though. The Imperium will have the right to participate in debate, cast its vote on legislation, and sponsor candidates for office in the Federation's government. The Federation usually gives members quite a bit of wiggle room with decisions they're unhappy with. Sometimes I think a little too much," she adds with a dubious glance at Joshua, who is currently occupied with systematically trying every drink available at his table.

Marshall seemed to think on this. It was a tough decision. Well, not so tough, but they did have a tough line to walk and was it worth it? "The Emperor did say to establish as many trade and diplomatic contacts as possible..." He opened his mouth to speak when a voice cut in.

"It would appear you have already begun and done well, Lieutenant. Standing here listening to you negotiate was most refreshing." Marshal coughed into his hand, hiding his embarrassment as Varius walked up. "That sounds most pleasing, milady. As long as we are not forced to go against fellow allies and we are allowed such freedoms, I foresee no problems in joining. Do I need to sign anything or whatnot?"

Marshall seemed to think on this. It was a tough decision. Well, not so tough, but they did have a tough line to walk and was it worth it? "The Emperor did say to establish as many trade and diplomatic contacts as possible..." He opened his mouth to speak when a voice cut in.

"It would appear you have already begun and done well, Lieutenant. Standing here listening to you negotiate was most refreshing." Marshal coughed into his hand, hiding his embarrassment as Varius walked up. "That sounds most pleasing, milady. As long as we are not forced to go against fellow allies and we are allowed such freedoms, I foresee no problems in joining. Do I need to sign anything or whatnot?"

"The Imperium will have to submit an application for membership; you may wish to send a representative to field questions from current members considering your admission. The Senate will hold a vote, and if a majority approve, your country will become a member. I must be clear though," Hannelore says, holding up a cautionary finger, "since the GFFA is governed by all its members, neither I nor Consul Baileygates can guarantee that the Federation will not order you to participate in the present war in a military capacity. If that happens, you will have to comply, leave the Federation, or be prepared to accept whatever consequences the Quaestor prescribes."

OOC: If you decide to, the place for posting applications is here: http://z14.invisionfree.com/Galactic_Federation/index.php?showforum=41

Varius nodded. "We expected such. Very well, we shall apply for application. Expect a message to come from us in the next few days." Varius refilled his wineglass. "Is there anything else you would like to discuss on the matters of the GFFA? Or would you rather open discussions for your respective nations only?"

As for research and development, we would be glad to help in that field. We are already looking into several improvements of our technology, with aid from the UNSC alliance." He paused when they mentioned New Wuhan. "What happened to New Wuhan, may I ask? Of course, we do not mind aiding at all. We have terraforming technology that can transform even the most barren planet into a rich, lush paradise." He paused, reaching over to grab a glass and fill it with. Taking a drink, he sighed and continued....


...Varius nodded. "We expected such. Very well, we shall apply for application. Expect a message to come from us in the next few days." Varius refilled his wineglass. "Is there anything else you would like to discuss on the matters of the GFFA? Or would you rather open discussions for your respective nations only?"


Carla then said, somewhat apologetically, "Ah yes--forgive me, I was somewhat distracted in thought. I wanted to answer some of the Lieutenant's questions. One as a GFFA member, one as a Dornalian. One, the early warning system in place is quite sufficient, all it needs is stealth detection capacities and a secure communications hookup with other FEDBED affiliates--kind of a "town crier" system to provide situational updates in case of major emergencies on your border, say invasion." Optimistically, she then concluded, "Otherwise, I like what I see, and indeed it may be a good example for others to follow."

She then grew pained, as she reflected on New Wuhan: "New Wuhan was a major world that was devastated by atomic warfare. The Allanean Navy, in an attempt to try and kick us out of the war, attempted to cleanse the world with atomic fire and....furries. Despite our best efforts, they achieved their objective, though not without sustaining casualties.

The Allanean Congress later condemned the act in an inquiry, whereby the commander of our fleet there was invited. Last I heard, he was trapped in rioting, apparently due to local political instability--though reports indicate he and the band of survivors of New Wuhan made it back. We lost millions, and the area's been barely restored back to life, with some vegetation, habitable cities and rebuilt infrastructure. We still have a lot of work to do, no thanks to the radiation, the debris, the bodies we keep finding and the massive dust storms that weren't there before. To our credit though, not everyone was killed. So, we would be glad to accept any assistance possible in speeding the recovery of New Wuhan as fast as possible."

Marshal nodded. "Indeed, those would be helpful. We have sensors capable of detecting any light-bending or gravimetric stealth systems but aside from that, nothing. The improvements could be made, if we know how to do them." Both he and Varius listened to what happened to New Wuhan. Marshal nodded grimly. "Aye, we will do what we can, even if we are not allowed in the Alliance."

Varius blinked. "I am sorry but did you say...furries?"

OOC: Put up the application.

Varius blinked. "I am sorry but did you say...furries?"


Baileygates then said, 'That's right. Furries. The ship that crewed the fleet that performed the massacre was crewed by furries."

---------

Mbutu then got up, and began walking around, sampling the hors'derves....

Varius blinked, opened his mouth to say something and closed it. It was a couple minutes before he spoke again. "I....see. Well, don't worry, we shall be ferrying aid to help you."

She walked up to Kahlan, and held out her hand. "Hello, I am Gina the representitive of the Twelve Colonies of Kobal. Our people are working in unision in the Asfaltum sector, and if it were possible I would like to solidify our relationship."

Kahlan shook the cylon's hand. She then held out her hand towards a seat for Gina to take. "Please sit."

Once they were both seated, Kahlan crossed her legs and leaned back in the chair. The Mord-Sith with the long blond braid stayed by her side while the brunette patrolled the large hall to make sure everything was in order. The tall man in dark armor stayed back from it all, his dark eyes scanning the summit.

"I am familiar with that operation though I haven't heard many updates at the moment. Anyways, you have seen what we have to offer. What is it you would like to propose to strengthen our relationship."

Gina sat down, and picked up the list offered by the Abh, glancing at it momentarily, then returned her gaze to Kahlan. "Since our people are already working together, we will be seen by the Galactic Empire as working with each other to undermine their efforts. I would like to accept your offer for a trade agreement, and accept your offer of friendship on behalf of the Twelve Colonies, and if you wish we could discuss the terms of an alliance.", Gina replied.

She took her right hand and pushed a peice of hair out of her face. "One thing that I am curious about, she asks curiously, is you invited everyone in the universe to attend your summit. These offerings are fantastic, yet you did not know who would or would not attend. Why would you offer all of these technological advancements, to those you barely know?"

"I was beginning to wonder if anyone was curious about that. The fact of the matter is that no one is interested in a diplomatic meeting unless it is offering their nation something in return. Usually that involves technology of some sort, but few ever come for the benefit of establishing a simple alliance. The list is simply their to get their attention. The weaponry you see there does not come freely nor cheaply for those who are serious about being an ally. Our allies are expected to fight by our side when the time comes and such weaponry can be with held if that end of the bargain does not stand."

Kahlan flecked at the hem of her white dress, letting it fall down. She looked back up with a smile on her face. "Besides, what I have to offer on that list of supplies and technology would be next to useless against some of the Abh ships. So the notion of worrying about an attack with out weapons used against us, does not concern me at all."

"I was beginning to wonder if anyone was curious about that. The fact of the matter is that no one is interested in a diplomatic meeting unless it is offering their nation something in return. Usually that involves technology of some sort, but few ever come for the benefit of establishing a simple alliance. The list is simply their to get their attention. The weaponry you see there does not come freely nor cheaply for those who are serious about being an ally. Our allies are expected to fight by our side when the time comes and such weaponry can be with held if that end of the bargain does not stand."

Kahlan flecked at the hem of her white dress, letting it fall down. She looked back up with a smile on her face. "Besides, what I have to offer on that list of supplies and technology would be next to useless against some of the Abh ships. So the notion of worrying about an attack with out weapons used against us, does not concern me at all."

Gina laughs, of course she replies, who would offer to sell their most up to date equiptment. Well God certainily has certainily put us in a similiar corner, and once we both get updates from the Asfaltum system, I am certain you will know of our resolve to fight with our allies. The only reason we came to that system was to look for a missing battlestar, and to aid our Coredian allies in their fight. We treat alliances as sacred, and if we were to enter into one with you, you would find us very valuable. Tell me a bit about yourself, and your nation. I notice you are not human, what species are you, and what is your government like, your society, your culture?"

Sebastian listened intently as the ambassador delved into the politics of Xanthal and their form of government. The Elder waved one of the servers over to his side and asked for one of the fruit drinks special to the area. He quickly took the glass and turned back to Umehara so as to not give the impression he was uninterested.

Umehara laughs. "I don't know if that really answers your questions, but you can feel free to inquire further. First though, may I trouble you for information about your own country?"

Smiling, the young Elder placed his glass on the large table to his left. "Well as I said earlier, our country is governed by the Elders that represent each species that inhabits Mythrandir. At the moment there are currently there are four Elders. I am not too sure if I can completely describe our government effectively with a label. We call ourselves a Kingdom that dates back to our roots but the Elders are chosen by those they represent and we deal with the vast majority of the kingdom's demands. There are a number of subordinate positions to handle financing, diplomatic relations, and smaller territorial demands. Some of those positions are appointed by us and some are chosen by the people. Mostly that would be the local magistrates, mayors, nobles, or whatever the people decide to call their community leaders.

Our planetary holdings are fewer than yours as there are only two comfortably habitable planets that we possess. Mythrandir is the main planet were the majority of the population calls home while Thralk is home to the vast majority of the griffon population. I hope that helps answer your question about our nation."

The Novaens looked at the picture that Sephrena had painted

"You're a great artist, you remind me of something like that we have on Nova."

"Oh, We're Trch'yk Henderson. Nice to meet your acquaintance." said the Sauron with only a slight hiss. They both extended their hands to Sephrena and John.

The Novaens looked at the picture that Sephrena had painted

"You're a great artist, you remind me of something like that we have on Nova."

"Oh, We're Trch'yk Henderson. Nice to meet your acquaintance." said the Sauron with only a slight hiss. They both extended their hands to Sephrena and John.

Sephrena shook both their hands at the same time.

Sephrena shook both their hands at the same time.

Junko noticed the painting, and her eyes opened wide, as she said, "I would have to agree. The painting is exquisite."

Junko noticed the painting, and her eyes opened wide, as she said, "I would have to agree. The painting is exquisite."

"I could paint your picture, I'm sure we could go out to the garden, it never takes me very long." Sephrena said.

OOC: Again, their prophetic, I would need to know what scene to paint, fortunate, or, unfortunate, though I prefer nice fortunate pics.

Gina laughs, of course she replies, who would offer to sell their most up to date equiptment. Well God certainily has certainily put us in a similiar corner, and once we both get updates from the Asfaltum system, I am certain you will know of our resolve to fight with our allies. The only reason we came to that system was to look for a missing battlestar, and to aid our Coredian allies in their fight. We treat alliances as sacred, and if we were to enter into one with you, you would find us very valuable. Tell me a bit about yourself, and your nation. I notice you are not human, what species are you, and what is your government like, your society, your culture?"

It was Kahlan's turn to laugh now. "You do have a lot of questions. Actually, I am fully human just like every person you will probably see on this planet. It is the Abh who are not fully human by a typical biological standing. From what I've been told they tend to live much longer than humans and they have an extra sensory organ in the middle of their forehead which is usually covered by a tiara. What my husband told me is that they have the ability to see behind them or at least sense movement or a person's presence. They can also plug into their ships an 'feel' everything around the ship eliminating the need for sensors. An odd species with strang customs to our own here on the planet.

If you are curious about the government on this planet, it is run like an Empire with my husband the sole emperor of its domain. There are provinces on the planet but they all pay homage to him. Our society has been marked by war throughout its long history. Too be honest, this planet was specifically created for us by the Abh after they rescued us from a long and terrible war that destroyed many lives. After that, it didn't take long to make an alliance with a galactic entity when we had no knowledge of such technologies or empires controlling the stars. Did that rambling help you understand any?" She finishes with a small smile as a servant brings her a glass of water.

Gina smiled. "Empires seem to be very common in the galaxy." she said while motioning to the waiter for a glass of water as well. "So your nation has two species in it, that is quite fasinating, how do the Human and the Abh treat one another? Is there ever any hostilites towards each other?

Gina took a glass of water, "I do hope that you forgive my inquisitiveness, but it is rare that I get to talk to someone about non humans, they seem to be the more predominate species in the galaxy, she replied. What does this extra sensory organ look like, that the Abh have?"

Then in a moment her gaze faded off into the distance, staring at the wall, with a completely blank look, as if suddenly no one was home, like a switch was thrown off. In a moment, her eyes lite back up.

"Forgive me, she replied, no longer smiling." "I should act more like a diplomat, than a curious tourist. The colonies would like to cement our relationship, with a defensive alliance, and as you have so graciously offered, a trade agreement. I believe that our nations would benefit from such a relationship in quite a few ways.

Sebastian listened intently as the ambassador delved into the politics of Xanthal and their form of government. The Elder waved one of the servers over to his side and asked for one of the fruit drinks special to the area. He quickly took the glass and turned back to Umehara so as to not give the impression he was uninterested.

Smiling, the young Elder placed his glass on the large table to his left. "Well as I said earlier, our country is governed by the Elders that represent each species that inhabits Mythrandir. At the moment there are currently there are four Elders. I am not too sure if I can completely describe our government effectively with a label. We call ourselves a Kingdom that dates back to our roots but the Elders are chosen by those they represent and we deal with the vast majority of the kingdom's demands. There are a number of subordinate positions to handle financing, diplomatic relations, and smaller territorial demands. Some of those positions are appointed by us and some are chosen by the people. Mostly that would be the local magistrates, mayors, nobles, or whatever the people decide to call their community leaders.

Our planetary holdings are fewer than yours as there are only two comfortably habitable planets that we possess. Mythrandir is the main planet were the majority of the population calls home while Thralk is home to the vast majority of the griffon population. I hope that helps answer your question about our nation."

"It does," the Ambassador says. He holds out a hand, taking a more official tone without losing his smile and affable demeanor. "I'd like to take this opportunity to extend an offer of friendship from the Socialist Republic. Xanthal is not a military power; we prefer to use diplomacy and politics to interact with and influence the international community. As part of that policy, the Triumvirate is always eager to find new friends and allies. Would you be interested in establishing ties between our countries?"

Kahlan looked slightly puzzled at the sudden change in conversation. She was rather enjoying the discussion with the woman. "You are in D'Hara now, not the Colonies. This summit is for everyone's enjoyment, not just pure business. It tends to get rather dull."

It took the Mother Confessor a little bit to think on the Abh physiology since she had seen very few in her years. "The Abh and human relationship is an odd one. The Abh do not live on any planet but live in massive floating cities in space hence their title 'Kin of the Stars.' You could sort of call the Abh the dominant class. Only Abh are allowed to become Emperor and many of the Empire's decisions are made by them. Any planet coming under the domain of the Empire, loses their ability to travel galactically without their approval. All planets have lost the ability to break light speed unless a ship is loaned to an individual or civilians take transport ships from space ports. The Abh actually look on the land worlds with extreme distaste since they were specifically created for life in space.

That is where their extra sensory organ comes into play. If you ever see an Abh not wearing his or her tiara, that organ looks like a little grey swirling jewel. If you could look almost microscopically at it, it is actually thousand upon thousands of eyes together."

Finished with her speech, Kahlan asked Cara to bring one of the treaty parchments that were kept in an adjacent chamber. Once the Mord-Sith returned, Kahlan unfolded it on the table. "Down to an alliance. I can formally declare that we will agree to defend your nation and interests in the event that your are invaded by an agressive power under the condition that you agree to do the same for our nation. As far as the trade agreement, we can begin trading food supplies and raw materials at the onset. Weapon technology can later be sent. Do you want to add anything?"

Gina's eyes began to blink rapidly for a moment, as life returned to her eyes. For a moment she seemed confused, then replied, holding her hand to her head, "No that sounds fair, she replied. "How do you feel about the Abh ruling your species, and how you have so little say in your own affairs. Travel amongst the galaxy. being restricted and all, it would seem that they are keeping you confined on the planets.

Gina looked around, at the surrounding party. "It would seem though that you have quite a fantastic party here, all of the games fun and activities. I take it such luxuries are common here, or is it just for our benefit? she replies gesturing towards the guests.

"It does," the Ambassador says. He holds out a hand, taking a more official tone without losing his smile and affable demeanor. "I'd like to take this opportunity to extend an offer of friendship from the Socialist Republic. Xanthal is not a military power; we prefer to use diplomacy and politics to interact with and influence the international community. As part of that policy, the Triumvirate is always eager to find new friends and allies. Would you be interested in establishing ties between our countries?"

This was exactly what Sebastian was looking for and he almost could not contain his glee. Hope and excitement were quietly restrained behind the pleasant smile of the young man's face. A right hand, with archaic runes covering the palm, reached out took the ambassador's hand. "I would most certainly be interested in beginning a friendly relationship. Our list of allies is fairly small but I would be happy to add your people to it."

Kygn sat next to an empty chair once again as the King returned from the restroom for the third time.

"Did I miss anything?"

Kygn gave him a glance to determine whether he was being serious or not. In the end he could not tell and said nothing either way. "Face it your highness, you are getting old."

"Perposterous. You are lucky you are a Patriarch or I would have your head for such a remark."

This time the smile that followed made it obvious that he was joking. Kygn rolled his eyes and returned his gaze to other delegates.

Kygn sat next to an empty chair once again as the King returned from the restroom for the third time.

"Did I miss anything?"

Kygn gave him a glance to determine whether or not he was being serious or not. In the end he could not tell and said nothing either way. "Face it your highness, you are getting old."

"Perposterous. You are lucky you are a Patriarch or I would have your head for such a remark."

This time the smile that followed made it obvious that he was joking. Kygn rolled his eyes and returned his gaze to other delegates.

Mbutu then walked up to the Tidani, saying, "Finally, somebody as bored as I am!"

He then held his breath, and then bowed, saying "Pardon me, your excellency. It's good to meet the Tidani again."

"I could paint your picture, I'm sure we could go out to the garden, it never takes me very long." Sephrena said.

OOC: Again, their prophetic, I would need to know what scene to paint, fortunate, or, unfortunate, though I prefer nice fortunate pics.

Milling it over, Junko thought long and hard about the implications of it all. If she heard correctly, then this lady had the power to predict the future in her paintings. But would it be for ill or good? Well, only one way to find out.

She then said, "Then by all means. I've always wanted to have a portrait sitting."

OOC: Let's hope it's a good one.

Milling it over, Junko thought long and hard about the implications of it all. If she heard correctly, then this lady had the power to predict the future in her paintings. But would it be for ill or good? Well, only one way to find out.

She then said, "Then by all means. I've always wanted to have a portrait sitting."

OOC: Let's hope it's a good one.

OOC: I'm assuming this means your giving me free reign to determine her picture.

IC:
Sephrena lead her outside, and had her sit down. She opened a case and took out a fresh canvas and the stand to hold it on. She took out her brush, and began painting.

She painted, and was fairly quiet, except for one part when she let out a gasp of shock and surprise. Finally, she was finished.

She turned the painting around.

There was a picture of Junko, dressed as she was, but it was smaller than expected. She was outside a building like a church where weddings commonly took place. Mud had somehow been splashed on her.

"The meaning of this is clear, your on your way to a wedding, if not yours, then someone elses."

Mbutu then walked up to the Tidani, saying, "Finally, somebody as bored as I am!"

He then held his breath, and then bowed, saying "Pardon me, your excellency. It's good to meet the Tidani again."

Kerain waved off the captains formality. "Hello Captain. Quite alright, I am glad to see so many allies have arrived. I look forward to cementing our bonds later." Nodding to his guard on the left. "This is Kygn Patriarch of the Shield of Nav. He is my protection for the summit, though I think the priesthood would rather he kept his eyes on me instead of the other delegates." A smile lingered after his little jab at the order.

Kygn as expected took it seriously at first. "Your Highness, you know that the Shield only has the best interests of the people at heart, and sometimes that requires keeping leadership accountable to the same cause..." The King's smile widened as he fell for the trap. Kygn returned his attention to the King and realized what he had done, then stopped and sighed. "How exactly did you talk me into this again?"

"I simply told the other Patriarchs it was either you or one of them. They all agreed whole-heartedly." Kerain explained, finishing with a quick wink at Mbutu.

Kygn wasn't going to give him the satisfaction of a response this time. He turned to Mbutu and extended his hand. "Pleased to meet you Captain. Major Sorreah told me about how he and the Archangels fought along side men from New Dornalia during the Starenell civil war. He spoke very highly of them. I'm sad to say he passed during the plague, but some of his men in the Archangels survived."

This was exactly what Sebastian was looking for and he almost could not contain his glee. Hope and excitement were quietly restrained behind the pleasant smile of the young man's face. A right hand, with archaic runes covering the palm, reached out took the ambassador's hand. "I would most certainly be interested in beginning a friendly relationship. Our list of allies is fairly small but I would be happy to add your people to it."

"I am pleased to hear that," Umehara says, executing a deep bow. He has been to a lot of diplomatic functions like this in his decades of service, and he knows that success is difficult to gauge until long after the party has ended. After all, it's easy to shake hands and make promises in the festive atmosphere of the moment; creating lasting bonds between whole nations is an altogether different task.

"Would you like to discuss specifics now, or shall we leave that for another day?" The Ambasador understands his limited but important role: sizing up other representatives like himself and making a favorable first impression. If he can go further though, there's every reason to take the opportunity. He's certainly qualified, and if he can set the process in motion now, the chances of anything coming of it in the long term are improved.

Gina's eyes began to blink rapidly for a moment, as life returned to her eyes. For a moment she seemed confused, then replied, holding her hand to her head, "No that sounds fair, she replied. "How do you feel about the Abh ruling your species, and how you have so little say in your own affairs. Travel amongst the galaxy. being restricted and all, it would seem that they are keeping you confined on the planets.

Gina looked around, at the surrounding party. "It would seem though that you have quite a fantastic party here, all of the games fun and activities. I take it such luxuries are common here, or is it just for our benefit? she replies gesturing towards the guests.

Kahlan swirled the water around in her glass before answering. "Well we on D'Hara have our ways as well as a special relationship with the Abh. But we feel if the Abh can keep foreign powers away from our space while we live here in peace, then I won't complain about not being able to own my space ship to fly in. Besides, I prefer living on the planet myself. The Abh do have cities that people can live in alongside them, but most prefer the ground."

The woman looks out around the guests. "The games and activities were actually proposed by the New Dornalian senator in the Galactic Federation Senate. We simply agreed to host the summit. The food is a normal ordeal here. We tend to make sure diplomats are comfortable and well fed. What do you think about it all?"

Kygn wasn't going to give him the satisfaction of a response this time. He turned to Mbutu and extended his hand. "Pleased to meet you Captain. Major Sorreah told me about how he and the Archangels fought along side men from New Dornalia during the Starenell civil war. He spoke very highly of them. I'm sad to say he passed during the plague, but some of his men in the Archangels survived."

Mbutu broke a smile at this, shaking Kygn's hand back. He was glad to see New Dornalians were appreciated by others, especially during the Staric War. The Dare Death Squads, despite their dubious origins, had proven themselves there and it also seemed that the ISB had made an impact.

"Ah yes. The Dare Death Squads and the People's Acolytes. Junko would be pleased to hear that. I am sorry for your loss though--it was reported the Major and his men were no slouches himself, according to Acolyte and ISB sources."

She turned the painting around.

There was a picture of Junko, dressed as she was, but it was smaller than expected. She was outside a building like a church where weddings commonly took place. Mud had somehow been splashed on her.

"The meaning of this is clear, your on your way to a wedding, if not yours, then someone elses."

Junko then looked at it, then tilted her head about, somewhat comically. She only said two things One: "That's a dandy likeness of me." Two: "And you've certainly got strong powers. I can tell that, without using the Force."

This was odd. Who would she know that would get married? And who did she know that would marry her? Funny.

"Would you like to discuss specifics now, or shall we leave that for another day?" The Ambasador understands his limited but important role: sizing up other representatives like himself and making a favorable first impression. If he can go further though, there's every reason to take the opportunity. He's certainly qualified, and if he can set the process in motion now, the chances of anything coming of it in the long term are improved.

Sebastian took a long drink from his glass and then returned it to the table, empy. "Well ambassador, I cannot see any reason why there should be a delay in discussing the specifics. Why don't you tell me what you have in mind and we can work our way from there."

Kahlan swirled the water around in her glass before answering. "Well we on D'Hara have our ways as well as a special relationship with the Abh. But we feel if the Abh can keep foreign powers away from our space while we live here in peace, then I won't complain about not being able to own my space ship to fly in. Besides, I prefer living on the planet myself. The Abh do have cities that people can live in alongside them, but most prefer the ground."

The woman looks out around the guests. "The games and activities were actually proposed by the New Dornalian senator in the Galactic Federation Senate. We simply agreed to host the summit. The food is a normal ordeal here. We tend to make sure diplomats are comfortable and well fed. What do you think about it all?"

"I find it all quite festive, more of a party or even a playground than anything else. It seems like quitea brilliant idea, have some games of friendly rivalry for those nations that seem to be at odds, yet other games for bonding. It is all quite novel. And with the liquor supply here, that would insure friendships to occur. After all you either bond with people, or beat them up when enough booze is thrown into the mixture."

As she continues to look around, almost as if she was mentioning an afterthought, "What is the Galactic Federation, is it a nation, culture, alliance of some sort? We have heard of the nation called the Galactic Empire, but it would seem a Galactic Federation has elluded our notice somewhat? What is it?"

"Ah well then allow me to clarify things for you. First off, the Galactic Empire is not one nation but an alliance comprised of many nations most of which are Imperiallistic ruled by the Sith. They are one of the three well known alliances in the universe along with Galactic Federation of Free Alliances and Extra Solar Union. The Galactic Federation is most likely the milder of all three comprising of nations that are not genocidal or xenophobic. We are more dedicated to protecting each other and promoting economic prosperity than anything else."

After Kahlan had her glass refilled, she looked back at Gina. "It might not be a bad idea for your nation to join us. If you are concerned about such economic trade and mutual defenses, that would be a gateway into a variety of other nations. Think it over for a while, it would be good to have more members with us."

Kahlan took a sip of her water to test its temperature before taking a longer drink.

"Thank you so much for your offer, but I do not have the authority to make such broad and sweeping changes as to joining a federation of whole nations", Gina replied. "My authority is to make alliances with single nations, and although it would benefit us in the long run to join in such a noble group, unfortunately it will take a debate on the Quorum floor to ratify this. I do not want to make promises, and if the vote turns against it, break them. "

Gina sits back in her chair, slowly swirling the water in her glass. "So why did you join in the asault at Asfaltum? "

Sebastian took a long drink from his glass and then returned it to the table, empy. "Well ambassador, I cannot see any reason why there should be a delay in discussing the specifics. Why don't you tell me what you have in mind and we can work our way from there."

“peputąlose kəldrąl ăsąl hąstəιi ensą tĭt tu fąbreli ălfąşrą,” Atshushi says, as if quoting. “A relationship must work for all parties in order for a friendship to develop.” The Ambassador draws in closer, allowing him to speak more quietly in the noisy hall. “You said your people require aid to rebuild, and military assistance to ward off future invasions. I cannot offer you much in the way of armed assistance, but the Socialist Republic is an economically powerful and resource-rich nation with a large labor force experienced in large-scale projects. There is an excellent chance that we will be able to help your people recover. In return, Xanthal asks only for diplomatic access to your country; a platform for facilitating future cooperation and the friendship I hope will grow between Mythrandir and Xanthal.”

Kahlan smiled slightly as she watched her water swirl around in the cup. "Let's just say that the Abh Empire and Galactic Empire have a history. One that isn't marked by friendship but more by dueling each other in space. We received words from the Coredians that the Emperor himself was going to be on the planet of Asfaltum which we viewed as an opportunity that could not be passed up. The Abh have only two Force users in existance and they decided to send the senior of the two with the Coredian Emperor to put an end to Palpatine.

With all the genetic engineering that the Abh go through, it's amazing that there is even one but I've heard rumors about the first Prince. Though I don't know if any of them are true. Our people were not a part of the Empire at the time. But the Abh chose whoever was strongest and now we will have to wait and see if they are successful. What interest did you have there?"

Momentarily confused by the odd foreign language, Sebastian eased away from the sudden tension that had risen with the introduction of unknown words. Now back into the comfort of familiar words, the Elder listened intently at the proposal. While slightly disappointed that there would not be any military assistance, Sebastian could not expect to get everything he desired from the first nation he came across and the first meeting he had. Still, this was an excellent start by his estimation and he looked forward to continuing the trend.

"Well, my people are in need of resources to rebuild military installations and defenses. We do not typically use metals as building materials but parts of our military reqiure metallurgy. I would also appreciate it if you could loan out a number of your space workers and construction workers for rebuilding efforts. We have no shortage of labor but with the destruction of a number of our military vessels, what workers we have will be needed in rebuilding those that were lost. Our ships require a great amount of time to build and outfit. Doubling the number of workers is the only for us to rebuild quickly."

As a servant grabbed his empty glass, Sebastian asked for a refill and a sample of the food for he and his wife. The talking and ship ride over had brought on his appetite.

A small smile graced his face when he turned back towards the ambassador. "Now, with regards to a diplomatic platform. A few years ago, a diplomatic palace was erected for foreign diplomats. Unfortunatly we only have one ambassador occupying the many rooms of the palace. I am afraid she may be getting lonely.

I can personally guarantee any diplomats safety that wishes to take up residence there. There are always a number of guards posted around the grounds and the palace is located in a secluded area of the city with a great view from the tall, rolling green hill it sits atop."

Umehara orders a glass of fruit juice from the same servant. "It sounds lovely," he says with a pleasant smile. "The Xanthalian diplomatic corps has full confidence in its host countries. I am confident you will not make the Triumvirate regret its trust."

"The Socialist Republic has spacecraft engineers available to transfer, but only a limited number," the Ambassador reports. "If you have need of assistance in rebuilding planetary infrastructure, we have more people to spare to that end. We will contribute as much as we can on all fronts where we are needed. The International Aid Consortium is also available to lend humanitarian aid if your people require it."

Umehara takes the juice brought by the servant and takes a quick drink before continuing. "You say that you do not typically use metal for construction; if you don't mind my asking, what do you use?"

"Well it is not that we do not use metals, it is just not prominent in our architecture. The light elves back home live high among the Manellorn trees that grow in the heart of one of our great forests. Trees so tall that they scrape the sky and dance with the clouds. Manellorn trunks are so great that you could hide four barbarian men behind it lined up shoulder to shoulder.

The dark elves of Mythrandir live beneath the surface of our world and build their homes out of onyx or natural stalactite formations in the caves. A rather dark and ominous place if you ask me but it suits their needs and helps their eyes. Our dwarven comrades live under the spine of Mythrandir, so the mountain range of Khronth provide them with any shelter a dwarf could ever desire.

As for us humans, we still build our cities and congregate around one another. Mythrandir is the capital city for the entire planet built along the southern coast of the great continent. White, supremely cut stone surrounds the city in a fabulous wall. The workmanship of the wall is so well done that it catches the morning rays of sunlight, and it looks as if the wall has been set ablaze. Inside the massive stone ring lies the heart of our society with people buys going about their lives trying to do the best they can for themselves and their families. Stone worked buildings fill the vast ground expanse from the White Tower all the way to the wall housing homes, shops, wharehouses, and a number of barracks for the city guard.

By far the most curious structures we have, at least in my estimation, are the crystalline towers fashioned by the griffons on their homeworld. There seems to be no base design that I can think of, yet they house a large extent of their populace. Coincidentally or not, the crystalline material is also a key ingredient for crafting our naval vessels."

A spacecraft floats near an uninhabited planet, apparently preforming deepscans on the planet's surface. The planet itself is a dead world, completely without any form of life. If you look closer, however, you can see twisted metal crags leaping out of the ground in places, possibly remnants of a bygone age.

The spacecraft itself looks like a many sided three dimensional polygon, with probably over two hundred sides. However, this polygon is broken by one large nozzle like object sticking out of the front, and several more spaced around it. On the opposite side there is a large bowl shape indented into the spacecraft, possibly some kind of engine. Each shape on the polygon looks to be not entirely solid, as lines crisscross around the entire shape. Perhaps it is but a trick of the light, however. There is no visual bridge, although multitudes of sensory equipment are spaced all around the outside of the ship, giving it the slight appearance of a porcupine. The ship itself is fairly large, about Dreadnought class by Imperial standards. Let's take a look at the inside of the craft...

Bedecked in light tan colors, the furry fourteen legged inhabitants of the craft scuttle around, giving the slight impression of mammalian centipedes. Having no clothing to speak of, stature appears to be signified by clues such as eye color, tint of fur, smell, size, and fur patterns. Most of the cleaning and such seems to be done by automated machinery, as well as the few repair jobs to speak of. The inside of the ship itself is a very light tan in color, and heavily decorated in wavy patterns, giving the impression that one is walking in a forest of grain. The floor itself is dark brown, and very bumpy. Ramps seem to be the norm, instead of stairs, as you can now see what looks like a bridge. Certainly, there is a dark tan creature that appears to be giving orders, and quite a number of lighter creatures that seem to be working at computers set into the ground, which are being manipulated with all fourteen limbs, and a screen in front. It looks much like an exercise treadmill.

Noise erupts from one of the computers, seemingly a spread of very high pitched gibberish. The apparent Captain bares its teeth, which you can now see are obviously carnivorous, and asks the Communications Officer "Mishan, what in Litharjor was that?"

The creature we now know as Mishan seems to be excited at something, writing things down in an alien language on the screen in front of it. This Captain we spoke of rushes forwards, probably at around 15 miles an hour, and grabs Mishan by the tail with it's teeth, which appears to be around two feet long, and just as furry as the rest of the creature, at about six inches of fur hanging off of it.

"Officer, I asked you a question. Now, are you going to answer, or must I remove your tail?" It cannot be said whether or not the Captain is kidding, but by the Officer's panicked reaction we can probably assume not. "Krish, ma'am, it appears that we have run into a new species. The only problem might be communications, I can't pick up the higher pitched sounds in their language." Krish lets go of Mishan, and orders it to the Great Priest.

Mishan immediately turns around, charging at a sprint for a human, and goes down multiple ramps before it reaches this Great Priest, who appears to glow a mixture of two colors, seemingly a violet and a red mixed together, although not melding. When Mishan gets within two feet of this Great Priest, it collapses to the ground, it's limbs spread almost straight out from it's body, and spits a small crystalline bit at the Great Priest, before getting up and rushing back to its post.

Said Great Priest snatches the crystal out of the air with its teeth, and inserts it inside of a nearby cavity in the wall, where it shoots out towards somewhere else on the ship...

Now you see the ship once again hovering above the dead world, and it turns towards a destination far away..

"It sounds magnificent, but that could limit the effectiveness of our rebuilding assistance," the Ambassador notes. "I think it would be wise to allow our builders and engineers to observe experienced workers before they are allowed to aid in construction, to assure that errors are kept to a minimum."

"Actually," Sebastian paused for a moment to pop an appetizer into his mouth then finished chewing before speaking again. "What we need help most with is repairing or rebuilding satellites and a space port that was destroyed during the fighting. There are plenty of workers rebuilding homes and structures. It's just space workers is where we are lacking."

"And those are built by more common methods?" Atshushi inquires.

"As long as they can weld and work in a vaccum, then yes; I guess you could consider that a common method."

The Elder winces slightly then looks back over at his shoulder to see his wife narrowing her eyes at him. Realization sets in on the young man's remiss as he turns back to the ambassador, making a mental note to thank his wife later. "Forgive me for keeping the attention all on my nation and its current problems. Is there anything else that you or your government desires besides diplomatic access?"

The Xanthalian ambassador seems to consider the question for a moment before answering. "The diplomatic relationship we form will be a medium for supplemental agreements; to have an open dialogue is the first step from which all other negotiations follow.

"It is the Triumvirate's belief that opening and maintaining communication with as many countries as possible is the key to ensuring Xanthalian interests are effectively represented and international disputes resolved. Having diplomatic staff stationed in your country, people familiar both with Xanthal's needs and the details of Mythrandir's unique politics and culture, will be far better equipped than either of us to assess and address issues."

It's difficult to tell whether he's holding back information or honestly representing the policy of his superiors. Ambassador Umehara simply keeps his humble posture and enjoys another mouthful of fruit juice.

A spacecraft melded out of FTL travel on the outskirts of the system, and begins broadcasting a message in some kind of dodecanary(Binary with 12 variations per number, instead of 2), and then extremely low pitched half growling noises via audio. This kind of spacecraft is unknown to your records, apparently a new player has arrived in the universe..

With an unknown vessel in the area and no clear message of purpose in the area, military leaped into action. A massive four kilometer destroyer shimmered into existance pulling up alongside the foreigner. Gun ports were trained towards the unknown target but nothing seemed overly hostile at the moment.

In a position between the ship and the planet, the destroyer sent a message to the unknown guests.

This is Rear-Admiral Sobach of Star Forces to unknown vessel. Please identify yourself and state your purpose.

While first contact was being handled, another message was sent to the planet's surface to alert the leaders to the new arrival.

Kahlan smiled slightly as she watched her water swirl around in the cup. "Let's just say that the Abh Empire and Galactic Empire have a history. One that isn't marked by friendship but more by dueling each other in space. We received words from the Coredians that the Emperor himself was going to be on the planet of Asfaltum which we viewed as an opportunity that could not be passed up. The Abh have only two Force users in existance and they decided to send the senior of the two with the Coredian Emperor to put an end to Palpatine.

With all the genetic engineering that the Abh go through, it's amazing that there is even one but I've heard rumors about the first Prince. Though I don't know if any of them are true. Our people were not a part of the Empire at the time. But the Abh chose whoever was strongest and now we will have to wait and see if they are successful. What interest did you have there?"

"One of our battlestars happened to be doing a suurey of the Asfalltum system, when the empire happened to attack. At first the FTli anomoly did not hinder our vessel, based on the Raptor's survey when they entered the system, but as the ISD got considerably close, then the FTL jump was impossible. The Admiralty decided it would be best after talking to the Coredian's on Khokha, or whatever the name of their planet is to send in a search and rescue team of 13 Vessels. As part of our Alliance with the coredians, after the fate of the vessel was determined, our forces were to aid in the attack anyway they could. We are still awaiting the news."

She stops swirling her glass, and takes a small sip of her water. She stared at it as the condensation began to roll off the side of the glass, and at the ice as it slowly began to melt into the water. It is quite amazing though, how small things in life lead up to bigger events. Kinda like the water drops, a small one hits a bigger one, and continues, until it becomes a drop and falls off the glass. If it were not for that battlestar being stranded by the empire, then we would have never heard of you, nor would we have attended this summit. What happens after this is anyone's guess though, Gina says as she smiles.

The ship, seeing the new craft, began looping the invitation message on all signals, and it begins to turn to 'point' at the craft. Very quickly as well, apparently a lot of design went into making this kind of craft able to pivot on its axis quite effectively.

Kahlan smiled as she lifted her glass. "Hopefully a long lasting and prosperous relationship. You are among friends now and your nation will always have the aid of the Abh Empire should you need it. For now though, you may enjoy your stay and help yourself to whatever drink or food that delights you."

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

Back in space, Sobach was sighing heavily. It seemed here was another race that had problems with the language. Well, it wasn't her problem. She only need be concerned with the visitor's intentions.

"Activate flight path."

"Activated, ma'am."

Unknown vessel, if you are here for the diplomatic summit then send one shuttle to the planet's surface by the indicated flight path.

"Communications, have the data crystal follow that message up with various other dialects we have on file along with numerical representation."

"Working on it."

The vessel sits still for quite some time, and then plays back the invitation again, and the deep growling noises. Then, it begins cycling through two other languages, obviously completely not related to the first language, with completely different vocals. Apparently they don't understand a word you're saying. Although they do send back a string of numbers that represents the code for FTL Hyperspace travel.

OOC: Apologies to the GFFA membership for not doing this sooner...

IC:

Looking at the time, Carla then realizes it's time to get on with the games mentioned by Kahlan, as well as the GFFA-specific events mentioned at the last meeting (OOC: IC way to put the whole suggestion thread).

She then got up, and then tapped her glass again, this time saying, "Ladies and gentlemen, if there are those of you who are not currently engaged in diplomatic discussions and business, I would like to now invite you in my capacity as GFFA Consul to the upcoming festivities, which will right now involve capture the flag, as our esteemed host indicated previously. However, there will be two variations--standard capture the flag, and what my staff call--"

She then looked at the itinerary form she brought. Giggling somewhat to conceal her incredulousness, she then uttered the words, "InstaGib Style CTF." She then said, "...which as I am told is a one-shot-one-kill affair."

She then put the paper down and continued with a smile, saying, "There will be more details later when we assemble at the appropriate location, though I can assure you this is all done with simulated weaponry, to minimize injury."

Kerain and Kygn heard the announcement and turned to the Captain. "Well it looks like things are about to start. We should get going, eh?"

The two Tidani began moving towards Carla.

Kahlan smiled as she lifted her glass. "Hopefully a long lasting and prosperous relationship. You are among friends now and your nation will always have the aid of the Abh Empire should you need it. For now though, you may enjoy your stay and help yourself to whatever drink or food that delights you."

Gina raises her glass, "To a long lasting friendship, between our nations. Likewise if you ever need the services of the Colonies, we will be at your disposal."

Gina looked out to the courtyard, "What games do you have here, and how are they played? I do love sports."

The Xanthalian ambassador seems to consider the question for a moment before answering. "The diplomatic relationship we form will be a medium for supplemental agreements; to have an open dialogue is the first step from which all other negotiations follow.

"It is the Triumvirate's belief that opening and maintaining communication with as many countries as possible is the key to ensuring Xanthalian interests are effectively represented and international disputes resolved. Having diplomatic staff stationed in your country, people familiar both with Xanthal's needs and the details of Mythrandir's unique politics and culture, will be far better equipped than either of us to assess and address issues."

Apparently willing to take the ambassador at his word, Sebastian nods and smiles. There was no point in trying to press the matter. What was important was the beginning of an alliance, details could be worked out later as they came along. For now, the Elder could just sit back and enjoy the party.

"I hope we can be of service in the future then."

Sebastian listened to the announcement as it came across the room. Tilting his head at the woman, "Is this anything that interests you?"

Atshushi's sighs contentedly. "I go where the party goes, Elder. Whether I observe or participate depends on the type of sport. My species is not well-suited to physical confrontation." Not wanting to sound like he's complaining, the Ambassador smiles again. "There's no need to worry yourself about that, though. Come, let us enjoy ourselves with whatever activities our hosts have prepared."

Gina raises her glass, "To a long lasting friendship, between our nations. Likewise if you ever need the services of the Colonies, we will be at your disposal."

Gina looked out to the courtyard, "What games do you have here, and how are they played? I do love sports."

Kahlan pauses to think for a moment. "I guess the most popular sport on D'Hara would be the game Ja'la'din which is roughly translated as 'The Game of Life'. It is one of the more physical sports there is involving teams of five and a ball called a roc. There are not many rules and there were deaths in the old days when the game was first invented. It's popular among the younger children and soldiers really."

"What about your people, what do they enjoy?"

Pyramid, is the most popular sport amongst the colonies. It is a contact sport, in which they take a ball and try to put it in a hole, on numerous sides of the court. If the ball is on the floor, then no one may tackle the person with it, but once they take their hand off of it, or move the ball off the floor, or move in anyway, they become fair game. The game is usually played by teams of 12. It is a great sport to watch, although injuries are somewhat common.

Tell me more of this Game of Life. What are the rules, and how does one play?

"Well the person in typically control of the ball is a point man and he is protected by a flanker who deals out the most punishment. Two other players are considered wingmen that stay along the outsides of the field and pass the ball around or go on the defense. The last player is a defender who is typically alone as the last line of defense.

Any player is fair game at all times and teams score by getting the ball through a small loop on a long pole sticking out of the ground."

Atshushi's sighs contentedly. "I go where the party goes, Elder. Whether I observe or participate depends on the type of sport. My species is not well-suited to physical confrontation." Not wanting to sound like he's complaining, the Ambassador smiles again. "There's no need to worry yourself about that, though. Come, let us enjoy ourselves with whatever activities our hosts have prepared."


The young Elder looks away for a moment then smiles sadly at the ambassador. "I've seen enough of war for now. I believe I shall sit this activity out. Perhaps I can find another ambassador feeling the same way to discuss the weather, art, and life with. Or my wife and I can find someone to show us around the castle grounds until everyone returns to the chamber.

Becareful out there ambassador. Some of these guests look like they take competition seriously."

The two Novaens smiled, "we will also sit this out, making sport out of war is not to our tastes either." they said together, before moving around to greet the Eldar.

"Eldar," said the human followed by a respectful bow by both. "Perhaps we share more than is immediately apparent. Perhaps we could discuss matters of more import than the weather."

Umehara bows a farewell, then moves to follow the group departing for the courtyard.

"Well the person in typically control of the ball is a point man and he is protected by a flanker who deals out the most punishment. Two other players are considered wingmen that stay along the outsides of the field and pass the ball around or go on the defense. The last player is a defender who is typically alone as the last line of defense.

Any player is fair game at all times and teams score by getting the ball through a small loop on a long pole sticking out of the ground."

The game sounds quite exciting, Gina replied with a smile. It really does not sound all that dissimiliar from our game of pyrimad, but I guess there are so many variations that you can do with a ball and teams. What about this capture the flag, with simulated weaponry. Is this a classic game of the Abh as well, or just something to help pass the time at this party?

Once everyone interested was assembled, Carla then began leading the group to the appropriate location for the festivities. She then began thinking what she would tell them--not many of the aliens would be all that familiar with the use of "Pulse Guns" and "Shock Rifles," so she had to handle this well....

OOC: Abh will probably get to the exact location next. Anybody who didn't post going to the fun, but wants to....well, after this, you can post and assume you went to save a little time.

Sebastian bows in respect to Umehara and offers a fond farewell as he leaves the court in hope of seeing more of his nation in the future.

As Sebastian moved across the hall, Sarah hooked an arm in with his before greeting the two Novaens. Sarah and Sebastian both placed a hand over their heart in bowed in similar fashion as they had when greeting the Xanthalian ambassador. "By all means. If weather is not your particular subject of choice, then what would you like to discuss?"

OOC: Indeed and all shall be made clear now!

IC:

Kahlan shakes her head. "No that game came from New Dornalia since they are handling the list of activities. We simply agreed to host it since our technology is compatible with their own. Which reminds me..."

Kahlan waved over the dark man in armor who was leaning against the wall. "Lord Ashram, go and show the guests where the arena is. I'm afraid they'll get lost."

Silently as he came, the dark man marched off after the leaving delegates. Kahlan's attention returned to Gina. "Would you like to join them?"
-------------

Ashram caught up to Carla with surprising speed given the amount of armor he was wearing. Without words, he took over the lead of the group and lead them down a series of hallways that passed gardens and courtyards for gatherings. They walked for a few moments until they were back outside the palace and moving to a nearby stone building. Inside the building were a few metallic structures but there was harldy any light to speak of.

Speaking for the first time, Ashram introduced everyone to the room. His heavy voice boomed with authority as he spoke. "This is where the Mother Confessor has had capture the flag set aside. It is a fully interactive holographic arena that is typically reserved for military training. Today, it is your playground. It has multiple settings so it will change to any environment you wish whether it be urban or jungle terrain."

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

The vessel sits still for quite some time, and then plays back the invitation again, and the deep growling noises. Then, it begins cycling through two other languages, obviously completely not related to the first language, with completely different vocals. Apparently they don't understand a word you're saying. Although they do send back a string of numbers that represents the code for FTL Hyperspace travel.

"Can't we just shoot it down?"

Sobach shook her head while thinking of what else to do. The crystal had run through every language the Abh had ever encountered and they even attempted a mathematical representation devised by the computer. Still nothing.

"Send them a freakin' picture. If they don't understand words, then perhaps they need a map."

For one last try the ship's computer sent a pictoral representation of the foreign vessel showing a smaller craft departing and heading down to the planet through the flight lanes. Once down there a figure was greeted by smiling representatives of the ambassadors on the planet.

This time they seem to get the hint, and reply with a picture of some kind of mammalian centipede standing next to the smiling man, about half as tall.

On the ship itself, one fighter craft, looking more like a cone than the larger ships spherical shape, although retaining miniature versions of the larger ships nozzle in front and inside-out sphere in back. One of the polygons had opened, revealing a small hanger. Apparently this was some kind of giant carrier ship. The ship itself looks big enough to carry maybe ten people.

OOC: If you want to do something before the ship reaches the planet, just say so, otherwise...

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

The ship was landing at the preordained point, apparently using some kind of anti-gravity while in the atmosphere, as the bright burning engines at the back turned off when it reached the planet.

As soon as the vessel settles, a port opens near the side, and a ramp lowers. Five of the Lathijir step out, the one in front ordained with all kinds of patterns, the two behind it ordained with slightly less patterns, and a lighter shade of tan, and the two finally behind them, two hulking Lathijir, with no patterns, and almost twice as big as the other two, looking more like Rhinos than large cats. The door itself was only big enough for one to move through at a time.

Kahlan shakes her head. "No that game came from New Dornalia since they are handling the list of activities. We simply agreed to host it since our technology is compatible with their own. Which reminds me..."

Kahlan waved over the dark man in armor who was leaning against the wall. "Lord Ashram, go and show the guests where the arena is. I'm afraid they'll get lost."

Silently as he came, the dark man marched off after the leaving delegates. Kahlan's attention returned to Gina. "Would you like to join them?

Gina stands up, I would love to join them in your activities? Are you going to attend as well, or are you too busy with the delegation present here? They blond cylon asked sincerely.

"I'm afraid I must stay here and attend to the remaining representatives as well as greet any newcomers that might arrive late. But, I shall send a Mord-Sith to guide you through the grounds."

Kahlan turned to her left. "Rikka, please guide the ambassador to the arena."

The shorter of the two walked forward and bowed curtly to Kahlan. The Mord-Sith's long brown braid fell across her chest as she rose back up. Kahlan then looked at Gina once more. "It was a pleasure to meet you. I hope you enjoy the rest of your stay here."
--------------------

Many rangers were still outside waiting to escort new arrivals. It was Greil's turn next to ferry ambassadors into the People's Palace. He had already received news that they did not understand any language in the Empire. Instead, the tall burly man used hand signals to get them to follow him.

Sephrena and Deuce had gone off to participate in the games. The picture Sehrena had painted for Kahlan stood in her chair. The sheet had fallen off, and anyone who looked that way could see the picture she had painted.

Meanwhile, over in the holo Arena Deuce cracked his joints and limbered up. Sephrena just waited.

Gina looked to her guard, that was standing near by and gave him a grin. She soon turned back to Kahlan, and offers her hand in friendship, "It was truly a pleasure to meet with you." She got up and began following, Mord-Sith, to the arena. As she walked down the hallway, she was amazed by it's detail, the small intricate patterns that appeared in the artwork, as if a thousand artist spend a week on one small panel. It was truly breathtaking, as Gina, her escort and the Moth-Sith walked towards the Arena entrance.

What lay in the Arena, was anyone's guess, but it was sure to be fun.

The creatures follow, and you notice the two in the far back have some sort of metal glove fitted over their front pair of legs, as well as their fur itself gleaming.

Carla then walked to the head, and thanked Ashram for guiding her to the right spot. She then turned to the assembled crowd and said, "Right. Here in this holo room, we'll run a game of capture the flag. There will be two teams, both possessing a flag. Team One will try to capture the opposing team's flag and bring it back to their base, and Team Two will do the same. Five captures ensures victory for this round."

She then punched in some settings, and said, "We'll play this in a map I chose, in this case a recreation of a medieval castle. Lemme patch it through."

The environment generated was indeed medieval. Not necessarily representative of one castle, the castle itself was a pastiche of numerous elder structures, mainly in Edinburgh, Wales, France, as well as Germany. With ominous staircases and dank, gothic environments, it was a perfect place to fight in.

Carla continued, "There will be weapons and caches of ammunition that regenerate throughout the duration of play stashed throughout the level. Pick these up, and use them well. They range from basic pistols to high-powered Rocket Launchers. Now, I have these team armbands and these little headsets here, in equal amounts to ensure balanced teams. Go on and pick them up, you're encouraged to work with people you have never worked with before."

Laying down some simple cloth bands that were adjustable and easily fitted on one's shoulder and headsets with a little microphone and a monocle, they were displayed on a table to be picked up. One set was clearly marked in a shade of red and tinted as such in the case of the lenses, the other a shade of blue.

"The teams will then have a certain amount of time to get to their bases. They're marked by the big flags corresponding to the color on your armband. Can't miss them. If you need any help, the headsets reply to voice commands and will provide any needed info on the monocle, which will serve as your HUD."

OOC: The weapons you will be using in this matchup. (http://www.planetunreal.com/utguide/weapons.shtml) For reference.

Deuce and Sephrena simply waited to get in. They were wondering just how teams would be decided.

OOC: Post updated. For an idea of the environment you'll be playing CTF in, look up an Unreal Tournament map called "Gothic" by Shane Caudle. Not a CTF map itself, but it looks just nasty enough for our needs...

The Xanthalian ambassador is taken aback by the description of the upcoming game. This is a diplomatic conference, meant to encourage cooperation and win allies. The idea that something so brutish could be a part of such an event never crossed his mind. Even were his body up to the task, he would not dream of participating in gratuitous violence, even if it is only mock violence. Looking offended, he leaves the area in a huff, trying to find his way back to the main hall.

Carla then stood there, with a deer in the headlights look. Figured. People from Xanthal were sometimes tough to deal with, and she noticed her staff was making Xanthalian jokes as of late, most of them involving squeamishness and what appeared to be a percieved streak of stubborn self-righteousness, and somehow, if they could be there, they'd point and say "We were right."

Shaking off the distractions, she then called Junko on her cell, and said, whispering: "Yeah, Junko? Could you intercept Ambassador Umehara, and tell him that this is meant to be a trust building summit, and that I wasn't finished talking about how the weapons would be simulated, and the damage tallied by chips? Yeah. Thanks."

She then snapped the phone shut, and said, changing her expression to one of somewhat forced happiness, "Right. I should add the reason I set up the exercises to be as such is that this is, in effect, a trust building exercise, where you will have to cover one another using teamwork. This is simulated combat, and I would like to remind those who haven't skipped out on us that no real injuries will be sustained. Instead, there are chips in the armbands that record simulated damage, and will buzz and lock up the weapons when you are considered 'dead,' and then unlock after a certain amount of time. And, rest assuredly, there is medical staff to assist in case of real emergencies. So, if anybody has any concerns, don't worry...."

--------

Junko wandered out of the garden, muttering, "Fucking old codger," as she moved through the castle complexes looking for Ambassador Umehara. All she wanted to do was relax. But, she ended up having to find a recalcitrant Ambassador that didn't want to play a game. He was proving elusive though....

Deuce and Sephrena took opposing teams.

"Your going down woman." he said.
"Fat chance boogie boy." She replied.
"At least I have flexibility, you just stand around and paint all the time." Deuce said.
"Well, I wouldn't say that's all I do. There is a reason I'm so flexible and double jointed." She said
They entered the simulation.

Their arguments echoed all over the castle. they didn't even wait to find their base, they took weapons and started hunting each other down.

Yet for all the echoes, they were pretty hard to find.

OOC: Which teams are they on?

IC:

Mbutu and Carla took opposing teams as well. Carla yelled, "At least wait until we're all ready...argh!" Carla then said, as she moved, "Well, grab your gear and move out!" She then ran to the Red Team's flag, whilst Mbutu ran to Blue Team's. They picked up weapons along the way, Carla a rocket launcher, Mbutu a Pulse Gun. He test-fired it's Alternate function, sending a stream of burning light into a wall. It was simulated, but the effect was impressive.

Mbutu then shouted on his headset to all incoming Blue Team members, "Any and all Blues, get over here! NOW! We need to plan our attack!" He was used to combat, sim and real, and certainly was ready to slug it out against anybody he could face. Carla, meanwhile, for all of her postering and mental skill, was not a frontline fighter, so Mbutu had the advantage. Still he would wait until others assembled, and then move out....

Junko finds Atshushi not far from the main hall. He had taken a wrong turn and is just now returning to the correct path after realizing his mistake. He sees her first and greets the Dornalian with a pleasant smile as she turns to look at him. He doesn't recognize her, though he did see her sitting with Captain Mbutu earlier, who he knows from his briefing, though not personally. "Miss," he bows politely, without interrupting his gait. Not realizing she was sent to speak with him, he almost walks right past her before she stops him.

OOC: Took a little liberty there to move the scene along to the point where we actually talk. If something bothers you about it, let me know.

OOC: Which teams are they on?

IC:

Mbutu and Carla took opposing teams as well. Carla yelled, "At least wait until we're all ready...argh!" Carla then said, as she moved, "Well, grab your gear and move out!" She then ran to the Red Team's flag, whilst Mbutu ran to Blue Team's. They picked up weapons along the way, Carla a rocket launcher, Mbutu a Pulse Gun. He test-fired it's Alternate function, sending a stream of burning light into a wall. It was simulated, but the effect was impressive.

Mbutu then shouted on his headset to all incoming Blue Team members, "Any and all Blues, get over here! NOW! We need to plan our attack!" He was used to combat, sim and real, and certainly was ready to slug it out against anybody he could face. Carla, meanwhile, for all of her postering and mental skill, was not a frontline fighter, so Mbutu had the advantage. Still he would wait until others assembled, and then move out....

OOC: Deuce Red, Sephrena Blue.

IC:
Sephrena dropped down from the ceiling right in front of her flag.

She had ran around and collected all the weapon types. She pulled out the Ripper.

She paused and sniffed the air.
"Disco." she whispered.

She aimed the weapon at the walls of a nearby hall, and fired.

one Riccochet, two riccochets, three riccochets all without seeing where they went. Then the sickening sound of blade meeting flesh.

"GAAHHH!!!" Deuce yelled from somewhere.

"Leave Deuce to me." She said.

Junko finds Atshushi not far from the main hall. He had taken a wrong turn and is just now returning to the correct path after realizing his mistake. He sees her first and greets the Dornalian with a pleasant smile as she turns to look at him. He doesn't recognize her, though he did see her sitting with Captain Mbutu earlier, who he knows from his briefing, though not personally. "Miss," he bows politely, without interrupting his gait. Not realizing she was sent to speak with him, he almost walks right past her before she stops him.

OOC: Took a little liberty there to move the scene along to the point where we actually talk. If something bothers you about it, let me know.

"Hey, wait." Junko bowed and said as she stopped the old man. She then stood back up and said, smiling, "Hi, I'm Junko Tadanobu, Grand Sensei of the People's Acolytes. You may have seen me with the other Dornalians?"

She then coughed and said, "Carla's busy, but she sent me to fetch you. Something about an incident in the holo-sim area? I'd like to know a little more before I just charge into the situation."

"GAAHHH!!!" Deuce yelled from somewhere.

"Leave Deuce to me." She said.

Mbutu then said, raising his eyebrow "Rock" style, "Clever girl. I'll leave you to keep your friend busy, keep the enemy tied down so we can get a shot at them. I'll see if I can get a flag run going."

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

Carla yelled on her headset, "Deuce! What the hell's going on!? Get over here, and don't be distracted. We need to focus on the job...."

Mbutu then said, raising his eyebrow "Rock" style, "Clever girl. I'll leave you to keep your friend busy, keep the enemy tied down so we can get a shot at them. I'll see if I can get a flag run going."

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

Carla yelled on her headset, "Deuce! What the hell's going on!? Get over here, and don't be distracted. We need to focus on the job...."

Sephrena chuckled.

"Well, then I guess I better be off." She said. She pulled out The Redeemer.

"I think my friend here and I can keep them all busy." She said. She left with her weapons.

----------

Deuce came from around a corner.

"You guys better get a move on unless you wanna give blue a free frag. She's coming, I know she is, and I know she's going to be coming with the biggest baddest most strongest weapon here."

Sephrena chuckled.

"Well, then I guess I better be off." She said. She pulled out The Redeemer.

"I think my friend here and I can keep them all busy." She said. She left with her weapons.

----------

Deuce came from around a corner.

"You guys better get a move on unless you wanna give blue a free frag. She's coming, I know she is, and I know she's going to be coming with the biggest baddest most strongest weapon here."


Mbutu's expression grew to one of horror when he saw Sepherena with the Redeemer. How she found it so quickly was beyond him, but he quickly yelled through the comms, "BE CAREFUL WITH THAT! It's got a huge radius, and it demands paitence!"

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

Carla replied hurredly, "Which one? It isn't the Redeemer, is it?"

She then looked around and then said, "Good thing captures are what matter in this. I'll make a run for the flag. Defend the flag, and make sure your friend doesn't get a shot off. Either way, I'm initiating the beginning blow."

She then moved out, ducking and weaving around corners to get close to Blue's flag.

Mbutu's expression grew to one of horror when he saw Sepherena with the Redeemer. How she found it so quickly was beyond him, but he quickly yelled through the comms, "BE CAREFUL WITH THAT! It's got a huge radius, and it demands paitence!"

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

Carla replied hurredly, "Which one? It isn't the Redeemer, is it?"

She then looked around and then said, "Good thing captures are what matter in this. I'll make a run for the flag. Defend the flag, and make sure your friend doesn't get a shot off. Either way, I'm initiating the beginning blow."

She then moved out, ducking and weaving around corners to get close to Blue's flag.

Sephrena's voice echoed from somewhere.

"Hey Deuce, it seems everyone is worried about this harmless little popgun called The Redeemer. I have it in my hands, and it sure is a nice piece of weaponry." she called.

Deuce saw her shadow.

He pulled out the ripper, and fired it at the shadow.

"HEY! Your not supposed to hit me, I'm a girl!" Sephrena said in a disturbingly accurate little girls voice.

"I told you woman, reverting to childhood is cheatin'. I'm gonna blast yo' ass back to the stoneage if you come closer. I mean it." Deuce called out.

There was an uneasy silence.

"Hey, wait." Junko bowed and said as she stopped the old man. She then stood back up and said, smiling, "Hi, I'm Junko Tadanobu, Grand Sensei of the People's Acolytes. You may have seen me with the other Dornalians?"

She then coughed and said, "Carla's busy, but she sent me to fetch you. Something about an incident in the holo-sim area? I'd like to know a little more before I just charge into the situation."

The Ambassador coughs nervously. "Oh." He holds his hands out in front of him and lowers his head. "I apologize if I was disruptive. When I learned that the game planned was a combat simulation, I felt I would be unable to participate. My physical condition is not suited to such an exercise." He doesn't voice his ideological objections; there's no reason to, and it would probably lead to bad feelings. He's here to make new friends for the Republic, it won't do to alienate its current allies in the process.

The Ambassador coughs nervously. "Oh." He holds his hands out in front of him and lowers his head. "I apologize if I was disruptive. When I learned that the game planned was a combat simulation, I felt I would be unable to participate. My physical condition is not suited to such an exercise." He doesn't voice his ideological objections; there's no reason to, and it would probably lead to bad feelings. He's here to make new friends for the Republic, it won't do to alienate its current allies in the process.

Junko interpreted this as a sign of contrition, but the Force told her there was something more to his explanation that he was saying. Like Umehara, Junko decided not to push the issue any further, the man seemed agitated enough. She nodded and said, "Oh. Well, I must say, it was quite a surprise for her. After all, she urgently requested I locate you and explain the situation....but I suppose there can be an allowance for health reasons."

"Please pass along my apology to Madame Baileygates for worrying her," Atshushi says with a deep bow. He straightens, lowering his hands to his sides. "Is there anything else you wish to address with me?"

OOC: Seems a missed a few things.

The creatures follow, and you notice the two in the far back have some sort of metal glove fitted over their front pair of legs, as well as their fur itself gleaming.

Greil threw open the great doors to the main hall that a few of the ambassadors still occupied. With a sweeping gesture of his arms, he looked straight at the woman in white who seemed to be in charge of the shindig. "Mother Confessor, may I introduce to you ambassadors from a nation we have no knowledge of and a language that is unknown to our archives."

Kahlan had already received the report from Sobach, this was going to be an interesting meeting. With a gesture of her hand, she bade the guests to sit.

OOC2: ND, you're in charge of the CTF arena. What you say goes in that realm though if you have questions about items or tech, ask me.

"Please pass along my apology to Madame Baileygates for worrying her," Atshushi says with a deep bow. He straightens, lowering his hands to his sides. "Is there anything else you wish to address with me?"

Junko then shook her head, saying only: "Well, only that Carla didn't mean to be offensive with the game, only that in her own way, she meant to use it to build trust under fire. As for more...well, you better talk to her afterwards."

After letting the old man go, she flipped up her cell and reported in, saying, "Yeah, this is Junko." Greeted by simulated fire, she turned up the volume some, and used her Force powers to improve her reception somewhat.

Carla shouted back, "Little busy, Junko. What is it!?"

Junko walked to a more secluded spot and said, whispering: "Yeah, your Ambassador's got health issues, so I let him go. However, I'm also sensing something I feel you'd be better equipped with. A big sense of offense and disgust. The guy kinda felt offended by the idea of gladiatorial bloodsport."

Carla then said, "Damn. Didn't expect it to be that bad. I'll talk to him after, clear it up."

Junko replied, in a tone reminiscent of an angry parent, "You better."

They look confused, and emit a very low growling sound. You notice that seats won't really work, seeing as they're not bipedal. They do however seem to recognize this new person as a great leader, and bow their heads slightly.

Umehara proceeds to the main hall, where he notes the newcomers. They're strange creatures, but no stranger than, say, the than. They don't seem to be willing and able to speak, at least not in a language he'd understand. That's a shame, because he would like to try speaking with them. Pictures might work, but he's not much of an artist, and there are some things, especially matters of state, that simple illustrations simply can't explain. The Ambassador looks around, hoping someone will have an effective translator or some other solution to the communication barrier.

Kahlan bowed in return to the guests. "Cara, find me a data crystal reader and download all of our language files on galactic standard to a crystal. Try to incorporate as many pictoral refernces as possible."

The Mord-Sith looked less than pleased. "That is going to take some time. I'll have someone handle it immediatly."

While Cara talked to a servant about the equipment needed, Kahlan showed the newcomers the food and drink that had been laid out for all guests. Inviting them to help themselves until something could be arranged for communication.

Carla, meanwhile, began her attack run upon Mbutu. Mbutu quickly shot back with his Pulse Gun, tearing into her with a stream of focused plasma and chipping away at her health. She rolled to the side, opening fire with a succession of rockets, knocking him back and dealing some splash damage, though not killing him. Still, he was injured heavily, at least as far as the damage recorder was concerned. He then got up and fired again repeatedly, and Carla quickly fled, damaged in time herself.....

Most of what these odd hairless.. Things... Did... Is strange, but at least they eat meat. Although they seem to have a lot of decoration on it...

They look confused, until they kind of rear up on their hind four legs, peer at what's on top of the table, and then fall back down again, showing impressive sets of padded paws, much like a cat's, before dropping down on all fourteens. The table is obviously too high for these creatures, who only come up to a bit over a meter tall, although a bit over two meters long. This problem is quickly solved however, when the two larger, each about a meter and a half and three meters long, pick the food off of the table for the others, every once in a while eating some themselves. If you're paying attention, you notice that they're only eating meat, although you cannot at any time see their teeth to verify that they are carnivores.

You remember now that the larger two didn't have any problems with turning sharply, even in tight quarters. Apparently their spines are quite bendable.

The Xanthalian Ambassador is thoroughly amused watching the alien creatures. If he had known he would get to meet such a unique species, he would have requested an exobiologist to accompany him on this mission. Trying his best to be discreet, Atshushi walks over to Kahlan and leans in to speak with her privately. "Excuse me Mother Confessor, but can you tell me anything about how you've communicated with these..." he searches for the correct word, "newcomers so far?"

OOC: Assuming he'd know her title here.

The Novaens looked at the newcomers almost beemed, a chance to make first contact with an obviously peaceful race. It was immediately apparent that language was an issue, but that didn't seem to phase them

"We are Trch'yk Henderson" they said, pointing to themselves and each other while they spoke. Attempting to pass their names on to the visitors. After which they started to look around for something to draw on, as they well understood the universal nature of pictures and paintings.

One of the creatures emits a low barking noise, which seems to in places just stop making noise, despite the continuation of the creature's mouth movements. It also hurts your ears some.

The obvious leader of the group walks up to you, grins, and says "Ish Ishalgir, Al Orshen Ai," still in a very low pitch. The other two smaller ones begin once again with the low barking noise.

After the other two quiet down, the leader bends its neck so that its head is facing its left-front leg, and says "Illunai, Minalti." It then looks towards the other two, the darker of which says "Kilfan, Ayeshun," and the lighter of which says "Kilfan, Jilfas." The two largest go left unnamed, but all five then say "Ish Lathijir."

Kahlan was watching the new comers from the other side of the room as they attempted to eat and communicate. "From the nature of the records from Rear-admiral Sobach, it seems she resorted to pictures and holographic images sent through communications. Right now we are going to supply them with information on galactic standard along with some picture references. Hopefully in time they will be able to understand some of our languages. As for now, we'll just have to see how far we get."

"Hmm." Umehara furrows his brow, a little frustrated. Here's a new species, people from a civilization he's never heard of, and he can't even speak with them. Just as bad, now everyone else is enthralled with them, making it difficult to hold further negotiations.

"Hmph," he utters, frustrated. Feeling that he might regret it later, he goes to stand with the Novaens. He stays silent for the moment, hoping that any progress they make trying to communicate will reflect well on him by proxy. If they screw up at least he'll have plausible deniability, for what that's worth.

Still at the hors d'œuvres table, Hannelore watches the whole scene with interest. Part of her is tempted to try speaking with the strange centipede-like creatures herself, but she keeps her place. Smiling privately around a cheese curd, she berates herself. You can take the ambassador out of the diplomatic corps, but you can't take the diplomatic corps out of the ambassador.

Meanwhile, Joshua has moved to the corner to sit beside Nienna. The Quaestor seems to be keeping tabs on the events transpiring across the room, but the Senator is busy reading a datapad. He could hardly have missed the Vimparians' arrival, he just doesn't concern himself with them. There's important work to do, far more important than some freakish new species.

Getting hit by the attack, Carla then dove in and grabbed the flag. She then screamed, ducking into an alcove with Mbutu following, "I need assistance!"

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

Junko also took notice of these strange creatures, though she didn't try to communicate with them using the Force--who knew where that might lead. Otherwise, she noted the goings on.

OOC: Still during CTF, which will be followed by GFFA Meet; apologies for crappy post....

Getting hit by the attack, Carla then dove in and grabbed the flag. She then screamed, ducking into an alcove with Mbutu following, "I need assistance!"

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

Junko also took notice of these strange creatures, though she didn't try to communicate with them using the Force--who knew where that might lead. Otherwise, she noted the goings on.

OOC: Still during CTF, which will be followed by GFFA Meet; apologies for crappy post....

A wee little girl no older than seven or eight years old came round the corner with the Redeemer.
"Freeze!" Child sephrena said.

Deuce met her.

"I told ya, reverting to childhood is cheating." he said.

He slammed his hands together and a wave of Chaos interferred with the holographic projections, altering and changing them, twsiting them. The Redeemer became a Burmise Python. A real, Burmise Python, and not merely a projection of one.

Meanwhile, The alcove Carla was in twisted around and faced an empty hallway. Mbutu found himself back at his flag.

Sephrena resumed her adult body and threw the snake at Deuce.

She painted a whole bunch of bots into existence each one a clone of Carla and Mbutu. some looked like what Carla and Mbutu's children would look like if they had kids together. They ran around the arena, some red, some blue, each one trying to capture the flag.

(OOC: I have been away for about 5 days. Can I enter the game, or should I just wait til the next one starts up?)

(OOC: I have been away for about 5 days. Can I enter the game, or should I just wait til the next one starts up?)

OOC: Sure, you can enter. Besides, its pretty lonely with just me and Ri-an. :)

IC:

The effects of Chaos became prevalent, as Carla and Mbutu began getting very nervous...Carla began wandering about, trying to get back to her home base. Something told her that next round, she'd have to issue a ban on superpowers, enforcable by banning the player. Whether she could enforce it....

Mbutu held onto his position, and became very confused and more than a little disturbed when he had to shoot a gaggle of Carlas with a bunch of Mbutu clones. He then called on the headset, "Umm.....Carla? You wanna do something about this?!"

Carla nodded and replied, "Roger that." She then called back to the two that had started it all, and said with a nervous laugh as she avoided a little Carla, "Deuce, Sepherena, what's with the sudden use of maphacks?"

Kygn had decided not to participate, he would let the King have his fun. Instead he returned to the area where the others were waiting.

Meanwhile Kerain was slowly making his way toward the red teams flag. He moved into the shadows near the flag holding up his Flak Cannon ready to fire. He took a moment to scan the area and see if anyone was guarding.

"I'm in possition." He said touching his comm.

Kygn had decided not to participate, he would let the King have his fun. Instead he returned to the area where the others were waiting.

Meanwhile Kerain was slowly making his way toward the red teams flag. He moved into the shadows near the flag holding up his Flak Cannon ready to fire. He took a moment to scan the area and see if anyone was guarding.

"I'm in possition." He said touching his comm.

OoC: Forgive me, Ri-an, if those bots were meant to be NPCs....

IC:

Mbutu replied, "Good. I will send backup. Take the flag, they will escort you."

He then decided to reroute some of the bots to assist Kerain. Two Mbutu-clones rushed to his side, one with a Minigun, the other with dual Enforcers. They nodded, and one said in a perfect replication of Mbutu's voice, "You got point, Kerain. We will escort."

They then took positions covering him, and motioned for him to move in....

OOC: Sure, you can enter. Besides, its pretty lonely with just me and Ri-an. :)

IC:

The effects of Chaos became prevalent, as Carla and Mbutu began getting very nervous...Carla began wandering about, trying to get back to her home base. Something told her that next round, she'd have to issue a ban on superpowers, enforcable by banning the player. Whether she could enforce it....

Mbutu held onto his position, and became very confused and more than a little disturbed when he had to shoot a gaggle of Carlas with a bunch of Mbutu clones. He then called on the headset, "Umm.....Carla? You wanna do something about this?!"

Carla nodded and replied, "Roger that." She then called back to the two that had started it all, and said with a nervous laugh as she avoided a little Carla, "Deuce, Sepherena, what's with the sudden use of maphacks?"

"There is nothing wrong with your television. Do not attempt to adjust the picture. We are now controlling the transmission. We control the horizontal and the vertical. We can deluge you with a thousand channels or expand one single image to crystal clarity - and beyond. We can shape your vision to anything our imagination can conceive. For the next hour we will control all that you see and hear. You are about to experience the awe and mystery which reaches from the deepest inner mind to... The Outer Limits. Please stand by." Deuce said.

Even without the headsets they could hear him laughing all around the Arena.

The Clones disappeared, the python disappeared and Carla found herself at homebase.

OoC: Forgive me, Ri-an, if those bots were meant to be NPCs....

IC:

Mbutu replied, "Good. I will send backup. Take the flag, they will escort you."

He then decided to reroute some of the bots to assist Kerain. Two Mbutu-clones rushed to his side, one with a Minigun, the other with dual Enforcers. They nodded, and one said in a perfect replication of Mbutu's voice, "You got point, Kerain. We will escort."

They then took positions covering him, and motioned for him to move in....

OOC: I thought of them as fodder for things happening in addition to the regular action. Fights happening off to the side, or someone getting sniped by a bot. Just something to make it more intresting.

OOC: I thought of them as fodder for things happening in addition to the regular action. Fights happening off to the side, or someone getting sniped by a bot. Just something to make it more intresting.

OOC: My bad. Want me to edit that, then?

OOC: My bad. Want me to edit that, then?

OOC: No, because in post 202, I got rid of them all, which was AFTER you sent them to help. I can bring them back though.

While games of capture the flag were continuing elsewhere, Kahlan continued to wrestle with the language barrier between the new foreigners and the rest of diplomatic party. The woman hoped that the data crystal reader would lead to a better understanding in some future. She doubted that it would do very much good at the moment.

"Well you have your english lesson ready for the diplomats."

Kahlan didn't appreciate the Mord-Sith's awkward humor but she accepted the crystal and its data reader. The crystal continued a good chunk of the basic language of the area along with proper pronunciation as well as pictures. The crystal would even speak the words for them if necessary to better learn communication.

Kahlan didn't know what to say really than other than to present them as gifts. She held out the crystal and the reader then demonstrated its functions for the strange creatures.

They accept the gifts, and fiddle with it a little before putting it in some kind of niche in their fur. They begin to spread out around the room, staring at the people, architecture, and anything else they can get their eyes on.

The darker tan of the two ones with less patterns approaches you, shoots an around 4-5 inch claw from its right paw, and begins looking like its drawing a few inches above the ground.

OOC: Ri-an, it's fine.

IC:

The two bots then faded from Mbutu's radar....and before long, Mbutu regretted sending the help.

Finally convinced that no one was guarding, and assured that help would appear shortly. Kerain picked up the flag and ran. He headed for the darkest and most closed-in path back to the blue base he could find.

(ooc: I'm not actually sure if I can fire while holding the flag...)

OOC: sorry for the lack of posts recently. Been a bit preoccupied by my upcoming civil war and invasion. I will try to post soon.

Finally convinced that no one was guarding, and assured that help would appear shortly. Kerain picked up the flag and ran. He headed for the darkest and most closed-in path back to the blue base he could find.

(ooc: I'm not actually sure if I can fire while holding the flag...)

OOC: You can. You just cannot use the teleporter thingy they give you, that's all.

Kahlan was thoroughly confused at the moment. "Cara, run out to the gardens and bring back a bit of sand in a wooden frame that the wizards use to practice their spells. Make sure the sand is brown though."

The Mord-Sith crinkled her nose in disgust at the mention of magic. Without a word she left for a brief period to fetch the items the Mother Confessor had requested. After a moment, Cara returned and placed the items in front of the furry creature.

Finally convinced that no one was guarding, and assured that help would appear shortly. Kerain picked up the flag and ran. He headed for the darkest and most closed-in path back to the blue base he could find.

(ooc: I'm not actually sure if I can fire while holding the flag...)

OOC: Also, my turn to post.

IC:

Carla turned and noticed the flag was missing. Mumbling, "Oh shit...." she then began stalking whoever was trying to smuggle it out. She ran, radioing any teammates left to watch the flag. She tried to find the flag carrier, but it would prove difficult....even as she fired a rocket wildly.

Mbutu, meanwhile called to Kerain, saying, "Kerain, move quickly. I think we can do this."

The sound of a rocket engine ripping through the air filled Kerain's ears as the warhead exploded somewhere behind him. A quick glance over his shoulder between expletives assured him who ever was after him hadn't found him yet. Course rockets have a way of shortening one's lead.

<Kerain, move quickly. I think we can do this.>

No kidding, he thought. Another quick glance behind him and he abandoned stealth to break out into a full sprint for home base.

"Roger that Mbutu. Be advised I'm coming in hot!"

The sound of a rocket engine ripping through the air filled Kerain's ears as the warhead exploded somewhere behind him. A quick glance over his shoulder between expletives assured him who ever was after him hadn't found him yet. Course rockets have a way of shortening one's lead.

<Kerain, move quickly. I think we can do this.>

No kidding, he thought. Another quick glance behind him and he abandoned stealth to break out into a full sprint for home base.

"Roger that Mbutu. Be advised I'm coming in hot!"

Mbutu then covered Kerain, as he opened fire using the Alternative fire on his Pulse Gun. The stream of hot plasma hit Carla, and forced her back. Mbutu then cried, "SUCK IT!" as he ran in to finish off Carla with a focused series of blasts.

Her systems freezing up, she "respawned" at home base and sighed, picking up a minigun to start all over again.

they were having a much quieter time than Deuce and Sephrena. Every five seconds they got a frag on one another.

they were having a much quieter time than Deuce and Sephrena. Every five seconds they got a frag on one another.

Which was jsut fine by the Dornalians. With the powers of Deuce and Sepherena focused on one another, they could count on a goodly opponent for each team being tied up....

Which was jsut fine by the Dornalians. With the powers of Deuce and Sepherena focused on one another, they could count on a goodly opponent for each team being tied up....

Well, that was until the decided to go for opposing leaders.

sephrena began to Hunt Carla down, as evidenced by several deliberate near misses, as she enjoyed a good chase.

"You better run, and pray I don't have the power of Redemption."

Deuce just straight tried to frag Mbutu, but his aim was off and so managed to just barely miss by the smallest of fractions.

"Come here, it will just hurt for a second!"

Well, that was until the decided to go for opposing leaders.

sephrena began to Hunt Carla down, as evidenced by several deliberate near misses, as she enjoyed a good chase.

"You better run, and pray I don't have the power of Redemption."

Deuce just straight tried to frag Mbutu, but his aim was off and so managed to just barely miss by the smallest of fractions.

"Come here, it will just hurt for a second!"

Carla ran to avoid the shots, and she shot back with the minigun, keeping it to bursts to avoid wasting ammo. She aimed for the Blue flag, and ran through one of the sequestered areas to try and catch the flag....meanwhile, Mbutu fired back, getting jumpy to avoid the shots.

Carla ran to avoid the shots, and she shot back with the minigun, keeping it to bursts to avoid wasting ammo. She aimed for the Blue flag, and ran through one of the sequestered areas to try and catch the flag....meanwhile, Mbutu fired back, getting jumpy to avoid the shots.

They also used their strength to smash down walls, throw objects in their path, and generally make it difficult to keep friom getting fragged. Due to certain prexisting conditions, deuce and Sephrena were much more difficult to frag.

With both red team members occupied, Kerain made his way safely to the blue base. All hell was being unleashed throughout the rest of the map and he ran to the blue flag to score.

With both red team members occupied, Kerain made his way safely to the blue base. All hell was being unleashed throughout the rest of the map and he ran to the blue flag to score.

The red flag respawned at its base, and captured, a point went to the Blue Team. Recieving the message, Carla immediately began running to the Blue Base, ducking and weaving as she did so. She then turned nd yelled at her pursuer, "FUCK OFF!" before opening fire. The game was becoming intense, and though there weren't more people, it was intense enough already with the Ri-anians.

-----------

Mbutu, meanwhile, opened fire and ran into a pile of rubble created by the throwing, and took cover, firing Pulse shots back at Deuce. However, his ammo counter was running low....

Not taking a moment to celebrate the cap, Kerain spun around and went down onto one knee. He located Mbutu and Deuce, then started unloading grenade rounds from his Flak Cannon trying to stop the unstopable Deuce.

Not taking a moment to celebrate the cap, Kerain spun around and went down onto one knee. He located Mbutu and Deuce, then started unloading grenade rounds from his Flak Cannon trying to stop the unstopable Deuce.

Mbutu made a thumbs up gesture at Deuce, before returning to fire at him. Then, his Pulse Gun suddenly died, just as it was spewing out a furious stream of hot plasma. He dropped it and switched to the Enforcer pistol, unloading shots into Deuce's head. He was wondering when the armbands on Deuce would activate, even as he told Kerain he was going to get more ammo....

The red flag respawned at its base, and captured, a point went to the Blue Team. Recieving the message, Carla immediately began running to the Blue Base, ducking and weaving as she did so. She then turned nd yelled at her pursuer, "FUCK OFF!" before opening fire. The game was becoming intense, and though there weren't more people, it was intense enough already with the Ri-anians.

-----------

Mbutu, meanwhile, opened fire and ran into a pile of rubble created by the throwing, and took cover, firing Pulse shots back at Deuce. However, his ammo counter was running low....

"Only if you Promise to do it for me baby." Sephrena called back. She shot a Rocket at her right as she died.

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

"This isn't the end buddy, I'll be back for you! You'll see!" Deuce said as he died and respawned.

They went right back out on the hunt again.

"Right I'll cover you." Kerain responded to Mbutu's status.

As he did he stepped up his firing to a wild and distructive pattern. Shells and shrapnel began to fill the air around Deuce as Kerain fired as quickly as the Flak Cannon would let him, trying to draw attention away from his team member.

"Right I'll cover you." Kerain responded to Mbutu's status.

As he did he stepped up his firing to a wild and distructive pattern. Shells and shrapnel began to fill the air around Deuce as Kerain fired as quickly as the Flak Cannon would let him, trying to draw attention away from his team member.

Mbutu then ran for the Red flag, running through the damaged level and taking cover whenever possible. He picked up some more pulse ammo and ran as fast as his legs could carry him....

Meanwhile, Carla was waiting for him. She picked up a Shock Rifle, and waited, scanning the halls....

OOC: Done for the sake of time, and to prevent the thread from getting any more repetitive

IC:

....before looking at the time and realizing they had run over; it was indeed time for the GFFA heads to meet.

She then said over the intercom, "Guys, we may have to continue this game later. It seems that we're due for the GFFA officers to meet."

Ashram had been watching the matches with relatively little interest throughout their entirity. With the announcement for the GFFA meeting, the dark knight knew it was time for the second stretch of his job.

"If you will follow me then, I shall lead you all to your proper locations. Other diplomats and ambassadors will be escorted back to the main chamber."

Ashram had been watching the matches with relatively little interest throughout their entirity. With the announcement for the GFFA meeting, the dark knight knew it was time for the second stretch of his job.

"If you will follow me then, I shall lead you all to your proper locations. Other diplomats and ambassadors will be escorted back to the main chamber."

Putting away her equipment and wiping off her brow, Carla followed Ashram to the designated area. She was wondering how to make the next match seem all the more exciting, as frankly, though it was fun, not many people were participating. Well, this was a diplomatic summit, after all, not many wanted to be violent even in the name of trust building.

Space stretched beneath the howling power of the Nether, as the great Necropolis Naxxramas forced it's way into the darkness of reality. It's surface was alive with energy, dancing with left-over magical discharge from its time in the scintilating realm of the Nether, glowing with various rune-wards and battle emplacements. Crystals crackled and pulsed, feeding the matrixes around them, keeping each ream of vital spellcraft alive.

Greetings, brothers of the Federation. I am Kel'thuzad, a servant of the glory of the Lich King. Forgive me my lateness, but other matters arose for me to see to. I trust I am still welcome among our ranks?

The Paryunu destroyer guarding the planet was about to change course and move into the dark side of the planet and lay in waiting when another ship entered its range. This one came with understandable language skills at least.


"Transmission coming through ma'am. It is a representative of the Lich King asking for permission to land."

Sobach waved a dismissive hand. "Fine fine. Give them their clearance."

Welcome to D'Hara brother Kel'thuzad. The lateness of your arrival does not effect our hospitality in the lateness. You are clear to head down at your earliest convenience.

As soon as the message was sent, a similar holographic flight path was ignited just like all the others before.
-------------------------

Now it was time for Ashram to move into the second phase of his escorting duty. Galactic Federation members were preparing for their little meeting and the Mother Confessor had a room already set aside for them as well as someone waiting for them. Ashram quickly moved to gather up all of the diplomats and lead them back outside towards the People's Palace.

They passed through similar halls and gardens until they had returned to the main chamber where Kahlan was still with the other ambassadors. Ashram collected a few others like Yates who had not stayed with the main group.

"If you will please follow me."

Galactic Federation members were escorted off down a side hall to a disclosed room.

While ambassadors were coming and going, Sebastian took it upon himself to meet the host of the party. So far this little adventure had been partly successful with the ambassador from Xanthal, now he wanted to add another success to that list.

The young man straightened out his vest and snatched up his wife's hand. Sarah smiled at him realizing he must be nervous in an unknown atmosphere and the intimidating woman with her escorts probably did not help his situation any.

Sebastian brought his hand up over his heart and bowed when he finally walked up to the woman. "Excuse me miss Mother Confessor was it? I was hoping I could speak to you if you don't mind and are not otherwise engaged."

....Galactic Federation members were escorted off down a side hall to a disclosed room.

Entering the room, GFFA Consul Baileygates took her seat, and folded her hands in eager anticipation for what was to come next.

Dusanyu watched the wine twirl in his glass before taking a sip from the crimson pool. The cool smooth texture washed over his tongue and the back of his throat. He brought the glass back before his eyes to examine the glass work. It was a peculiar design unique to the people of this planet but it had a certain primitive artistic elogance to it all.

Next to him sat General Meiffert in his leather armor and green cape. The D'Haran man sat with his massive arms crossed over his muscled torso clearly dwarfing the Abriel at the head of the table. Paper work was laid out infront of him for the meeting. Now they simply waited for the others.

As the ambassadors entered the room, both Lord Dusanyu and General Meiffert rose to greet them. The Abriel former Emperor wore a wide smile. "Ah greetings ladies and gentlemen. Welcome to our back room of conspiracies and dubious plots. Sit and we shall discuss our business in hushed voices as if the very walls have ears."
--------------------

Kahlan smiled at the young man and his wife. She had been wanting to speak with all of the representatives and was grateful that some were coming to her. The Mother Confessor held out her hand to a pair of seats.

"Please sit. What is it that you would like to discuss?"

As the ambassadors entered the room, both Lord Dusanyu and General Meiffert rose to greet them. The Abriel former Emperor wore a wide smile. "Ah greetings ladies and gentlemen. Welcome to our back room of conspiracies and dubious plots. Sit and we shall discuss our business in hushed voices as if the very walls have ears."

Carla laughed. "An Illuminata I am not," she said jocularly. She then said, almost blurting, "It's an old Earth conspiracy theory. Anyway, I just want to discuss how to get recruitment up."

She then got up and said, sadly: "I will be blunt. Recruitment is down, and only one new person has even bothered signing up, despite our aggressive HoloNet ad campaign. Does anybody have any ideas to boost our public profile positively and to boost membership?"

"There are a number of possibilities for that measure which the General here will discuss momentarily but all I can say is to maintain a public appearance. Our alliance was founded for the purpose of helping one another and nations that require our support. For that purpose we must remain ever true in our mission. Even those nations who are not members should receive our help if they so desire it. At least in that manner we shall sow the seeds of our ideals for a future date."

Once Dusanyu had finished, Meiffert nodded and collected his papers. "There is also the matter that there are those nations who have been under the attack of the Galactic Empire. Our help can greatly swing them in our favor and we should not hesitate to give aid to nations that come under imperial attacks. Some of those nations are back in the main chamber room. We should become as friendly as possible with them."

"There's a problem with that, as I could attest." Senator Yanosuke Masaki said. "Some of our members -I won't name names- seem to have cold feet whenever fighting the Empire is brought up. I am concerned with several of the rumors I've been hearing lately, too. We should address that as well."

"And what rumors would those be?" A voice crackled from the deep darkness that seemed to dwell within Kel'thuzad's skull, his eyes crackling in a discharge of magical energy. He floated above the ground, orbed by countless sparkles of power. His bones seemed to glow with some form of field, his jewels and adornments sparking as he hovered in.

Kel'thuzad had come as fast as he was able from the Naxxramas, attended by scuttling corpse things. One held a book, its pages open and gleaming with light ethereal. Another carried a staff, carved of bone and inlaid with precious psycho-active jewels.

"That some among us would rather avoid the bite of the beast than force us into its path? There are some, Yanosuke" He spoke without respect for rank or lineage "Some who have not been so affected as you, and been so prejudiced. Is the point of this Alliance to put ourselves eternally in the way of whatever unfortunate event occurs? Are we to be the sanctuary for every broken little morsel who comes creeping to us, begging for succor?

Tell me, how many do the Federation aid who are not threatened by the singular evil of the Empire? How many others do we save from lesser imperialisms? Would you have us help them all, Yanosuke? Or would you rather admit that this has become...Vendetta."

"Now, now," Hannelore says, standing up. "I think we can all understand why Senator Masaki takes the position he does. It can't be denied that the Empire has done some detestable things to expand and maintain their order. Still, we should also respect the concerns of nations who have insufficient military power to fight the Empire," she looks at the Xanthalian Senator, who crosses his arms as she says this, "or simply feel that it is not their duty to be involved," she nods towards the Lich King.

"You have all had your disputes with the Empire for a long time," Manson adds, gesturing at the Abh, Coredian, and Dornalian delegates, who are conveniently grouped together. "It is obviously your fight; take responsibility for it yourselves instead of trying to make us a part of it. Fight in the name of freedom, justice, territorial expansion or whatever you wish, but not in the name of the Galactic Federation."

For her part, the Quaestor sits quiet and alert as far away from everyone else as possible. Her personal opinions don't factor into her job discription.

Carla then said, standing up: "People. This will get us nowhere. I recognize that those opposed to the Empire can fight alone. This is after all a democracy, not everybody has to jump when we say so. I won't hold it against you."

She then said, coughing, "The important thing is that we establish a public presence. Debate on the legality of the war can be settled later. Perhaps this can be done through relief missions, or assisting unaligned powers, or newly emerging nations on the Galactic stage."

OOC: Sorry, went camping. Thought I had posted that I was, but apparently I didn't.

The aliens sit by the side and watch the entire time, although the leader of them seems to be trying to get your(Abh's) attention.

OOC: Hey Vimparia, I gave your rep a box of sand to doodle in. Hopefully that helps jog the memory.

IC: Dusanyu intertwined his fingers together while leaning forward on the simple oaken table. "Easy now. Debates can wait for the Federation chambers back at the capitol. For now let us put aside differences of political opinions and fine possible solutions that Carla has mentioned. I have to agree with her that the best job of the GFFA is not one of a military one but more that of humanitarian. I believe that is solid ground to start on that I hope all could agree to."
--------------

Kahlan waved over Cara. "See what they want now."

Cara looked at the strange creature across the way and nodded somewhat slowly. The Mord-Sith walked over to the alien who appears to be the leader. "Something I can do for you?"

The blond haired woman was not the most diplomatic but she was sharp of mind and Kahlan was busy with another ambassador at the moment.

Sebastian nodded his thanks and allowed his wife to sit first before following. The young Elder rubbed his hands together slightly nervous. Having had his fill of juice and the food served, Sebastian decided to get down to business at hand. He realized this woman must have other matters to attend to and could not afford to spend all her time with one diplomat from some unknown nation.

"Well to be frank with you madam, my people are in the state of recovery and rebuilding from an invasion from the nation of Tannelorn that belongs to the Galactic Empire. Our supposed allies never showed up to help fight off the invasion forces. We have forgone any hope of that alliance now and are looking to ally with those that will actually be there to support us. My wife and I spent weeks on end feeding the people ravaged by war and tending to our wounded soldiers.

We have observed wars taking place throughout this universe and we recognize some of your ships as those we have watched for some time. While allying with powers that are constantly at war is not appealing to me or my wife or anyone back on Mythrandir, we do need some support. I would like to ally with your people because from what you have said, I feel that we share some similarities with you. We do not enjoy war anymore than you and we are loyal allies like you desire. Your trade agreement interests me as does a mutual defense agreement. We can offer a number of little gadgets and resources for trade."

The alien leans forwards over the box, and when it pulls back you see what looks like a comic book. In the first box, you see a planet with a ship overhead, in the second, there is a smaller ship between the two, heading towards the larger ship, and in the third, you can see the ship going back to the planet. The alien growls slightly as it gesticulates movement from the planet to the ship and back.

Kahlan sat there listening to Sebastian's tale on war. It was strikingly familiar to some of her own and she understood his worries about joining up with a nation that seemed constantly at war. "Elder Sebastian, I believe we can help each other here. You worry about being drug into military battles that are not your own so I shall make a deal with you. Our mutual defense agreement will only include this planet and your own at this time. If you grow more comfortable with us, then you may upgrade as we go along. I can also provide you with missle technology that will make your missle attacks more effective.

In return we can allow trade into limited areas though there will have to be staging points for your cargo to be brought into the realm of the Empire. Defensive measures call for such things I'm afraid. We will also trade raw materials and some gadgets with you. Is this a fair deal Elder Sebastian?"
----------------

Cara looked at the picture and studied it for a moment. After a while, the Mord-Sith is still having trouble discerning it. "Rejection? Invasion?"

Some parts of the picture made sense but Cara was still confused on what the ambassador was trying to convey.

"The GFFA is bound to uphold the rights and freedoms of its members to the exclusion of all other interests," Manson says pointedly. "I wonder sometimes if my esteemed colleagues forget that in their attempt to present themselves as the galaxy's defenders of justice."

"That aside," Hannelore says, exasperated with her compatriot, "I can't imagine the alliance will suffer from doing a little good in the universe. As long as the Galactic Federation doesn't forget its duty to protect its members, it's only right that we use some of our own wealth to assist the less fortunate; isn't that what socialism is all about?" She shoots a meaningful glance at the Mirfakan. Manson cracks an unhappy mock-smile and shuts his mouth for the time being.

Satisfied that Joshua has been sufficiently chastised for his antagonistic attitude, the Praetor continues, looking between the other gathered officials. "Humanitarian efforts build the Federation's international support and make us more attractive to potential members besides," she smiles warmly, "just being the right thing to do."

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

"Rescue?" the Xanthalian ambassador offers semi-helpfully. He looks over at Cara. "Do you have any telepaths on staff here? It might be possible to communicate that way."

Satisfied that Joshua has been sufficiently chastised for his antagonistic attitude, the Praetor continues, looking between the other gathered officials. "Humanitarian efforts build the Galactic Federation's international support and make us more attractive to potential members besides," she smiles warmly, "just being the right thing to do."

"I agree wholeheartedly with the Praetor. As long as the rights of our membership are not infringed, I say let's open up our pocketbooks and spare some aid for the less fortunate nations out there. Get the word out, and show the universe our best," Carla said.

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

Junko popped up and said, "I'm a psychic. I think I could establish contact with these guys....if that's okay with our hosts of course." As she said that, she turned to Cara.

Seeing your confusion, the aliens draw what looks like all of you next to the planet, and a box next to the ship in the first part. In the second part, the same thing is drawn, but in the third part, the ship is coming back with a box next to it.

Sebastian was floored by the offers. If he had heard correctly, this woman was offering almost everything for next to nothing in return. The young Elder could only nod dumbly as an acceptance.

His wife, Sarah, had to come to the man's aid. She smiled which was the only thing holding back her laugh but the mirth could not be missed in her voice. "While my husband searches for the right words to reply to your generous offer, I shall fill in for him. Mother Confessor, this offer of yours is nearly impossible to refuse. Members of the Forge would work hours on end to pick apart your technology to better understand it and apply it to our own. If I might ask, this all seems too good to be true. Are you sure there is nothing in return that you want other than some resources?"