NationStates Jolt Archive

Space is far vaster than most sentient minds can comprehend. Even with the hundreds of space Empires and Republics, each is still isolated, huddling around the planets that can support life and building biospheres on the ones that can't. The void between systems in great, but in the sense of space in the universe it is a small jog...when compared with the emptiness between galaxies. From the edge of the galaxy know to Terrans as the Milky Way a brave fleet of ships makes their way off of the planet...out of the system...and, finally, out of the galaxy.

Rear Admiral Inritus found he could not breath.
Behind him, there was stars, winking sphere of light revolving around the galactic center...but before him, there was nothing.
Literally, a void.
Blackness, not as a color, but as an absence of anything else. He could only see the rest of the Xiscapian First Exploratory Fleet spread out around his ship, and that was all. No stars, no planets, no gas, no asteroids, no other ships...just space. He knew, he could sense as he stared in awe forward, the rest of the Bridge Crew staring likewise at the display screen. It was not, actually, a window, as such would imply a hole cut into the hull: The bridge of the ship was deep into the hull, at the center to be better protected, and what the screen saw was feed from cameras fixed into the hull on the outside.
Nevertheless, the view was spectacular.

Inritus visibly shook himself, gray tail whipping about in agitation, turning to face his officers, pushing his black hair out of his yellow eyes. The other kitsune watched their superior calmly, a sea of orange or yellow eyed faces with fur ranging from pure white to rusty orange to tawny gold to as dark as the space outside. The fur was, of course, limited to only the "top" fox ears and the almost disproportionately large fox tails, but it was there as a defining factor nonetheless. "Bring the Shadow Hunter online and begin placing the crew in statis chambers." he ordered. In an instant the unmoving officers turned in a flurry of activity as orders were delegated down and the gray-uniformed males and females did their duties.

On the other nine ships of the fleet each avatar A.I. was brought online. The Battleship A.I.s, Shadow Hunter and Rebel Moon, the Destroyer A.I.s, Shatterpoint and Ferret, the Cruiser A.I.s, Wonder and Stand Alone, the Carrier A.I.s, Tempest and Ghost, and the Medical Ship A.I.s, Passion and Thought. One would think the A.I. avatars were named after their ships, but it was actually the other way around: After coming online for the first time, the avatar would review it's considerable databanks and choose a name, which became the name of the ship itself. These A.I. were, of course, sentient, capable of thought, but not of emotion. They would be the ones to guide the ships though their voyage to the next galaxy, as biological crew were not able to do so, because of lack of available consumables to feed and hydrate even a skeleton crew for the time they had to travel. Also was the factor that biologicals were prone to mistakes, while A.I. were not.

Rear Admiral Inritus was the last to go into the statis chamber on the Shadow Hunter, and indeed the last to go in the entire fleet. Walking along the row of eighteen chambers, he stopped at the last one and opened the door with his I.D. Stepping into the room just before his assigned chamber, he stripped himself of his uniform, folding it and pushing the clothes, along with the regulation blaster pistol and katana, into a storage container. He stood erect, naked, and walked into the chamber. Inside was another nineteen kitsune, each in a transparent pod the size of a closet. They were floating in thick green gel, male and female alike naked, eyes closed. In theory the gel was rich in preservatives, and the dozens of tubes sticking into various parts of the body put in nutrients and vitamins and removed waste, all controlled by the avatar.

In theory.
The trial runs had gone well, and the ship was well protected. All ten of the avatars shared a link, so if one were to unexpectedly go offline for some reason, the others would all extend their power to flying the ship until either the responsible avatar came back online or they reached their destination. Each avatar could also fight against attacks by hostiles, with both exterior weaponry and repelling boarding parties. Should the ships be assaulted it would be up to the avatars to combat the attackers, as summoning the crew from their statis slumber was time-consuming and none would be immediately fit for combat.

Finally the Rear Admiral stepped up to the pod that was his, with tubes yet unconnected, empty. Murmuring a prayer to the Xiscapian god, Qonn, he turned around and stepped inside. Inritus felt the soft, warm gel roll over him as a tube attached to his mouth, allowing him to breath. He looked out across the room at his sleeping crew with a smile for a moment before his mind shut down and he, too, drifted away into darkness...

The biological status of the crew was checked and rechecked, and would be checked periodically throughout the years of the voyage. Now the engines on all ten ships shone bright as the A.I. engaged the hyperdrives and blasted away, carving a new path from one galaxy to another. For a long time there would be nothing outside the ships but the blue-white dimension of hyperspace...the majority of the trip, in fact. Space would only turn black once they reached the next galaxy.

By the avatar timekeeping records it had been precisely six years, four months, one week, three days, twenty hours, forty-three minutes and nine seconds travel from the Milky Way to this new, yet unnamed galaxy. This was the Xiscapians first extragalactic voyage, and no one could do any more than speculate on what the brave explorers might find.

All biological signs nominal
Exiting Hyperspace now
Scanning...
New System Detected
Composition:
One yellow dwarf star
Ten planetary bodies
Two probable life-bearing planets detected
1: Third planet from sun: Three satellites: Carbon based life support possible
2: Fourth planet from sun: Two satellites: Carbon based life probable
...
Warning: Major signals of advanced alien life detected on fourth planet, Class Three.
Initiate lock-down protocol
Lock-down protocol in effect
Communications on tight-beam transmission only
Energy signature output minimized
Primary Goal: Observation
Wait First Contact...

Tokala, a humanoid Red Fox, woke up moments after his alarm clock went off. He quickly sat up and turned to the side of his bed, letting his flatten hind legs touch the cold wooden floor. His yellow eyes lazily opened and the fox yawned, his jaw opening wide bearing his small, but sharp fangs. The fox brushed his white furry stomach and got up. Living by himself the fox slept, like many others in Mu Cephei, naked. Like most other Mu Cpheians he would not dress until he was done with his morning routine of cleaning his teeth, claws, and the other basics like a quick bath. Afterwards he put on an orange tunic, baggy pants and after slipping into his hiking boots made himself breakfast. Which was primally cray fish with a side dish of a few earth worms and a handful of blackberries. Afterwards Tokala grabbed a cold bottle of water from his refrigerator and walked out of his apartment.

Upon reaching outside Tokala began his normal day's drill, a five mile jog around a nearby park. It was still dark out, Tokala liked to wake up very early to do his day's work out since he preferred the silence, but his paradise was quickly ruined with the arrival of a humanoid African Wild Dog.

"Hey Tokala!" The bastard of a beast jogged by Tokala's side. Tokala, from instinct, straighten his back and looked straight ahead making sure not to look at his superior straight in the eyes.

"Good morning sir," Tokala said. Doing his best to keep jogging without outpacing his pack leader. The colorful canidae laughed.

"Do not worry my lowly friend! The worst that can happen to you if you beat me in a fair race is that you'll no longer have a throat!" the alpha male laughed again.

"Sir... Isoke sir, please beg me pardon, but why do are you paying me a visit?" Tokala winched, bracing himself for an attack. The hyena look alike laughed again.

"How would you like to join me on my newly assigned battleship as my X.O?" Tokala stopped suddenly, breathing hard he looked towards Isoke.

"Your kidding right? I'm half your age and my experience in space is only a tenth of yours! I can not entrust myself with the duties of an executive officer let alone let you trust me." Isoke stopped jogging and turned towards Tokala.

"That is how it has always been done. The older generation picks the young and the most brightest to give them rank. You'll be second in command of the Space Battleship The Murdering Toddy. Don't you understand that by accepting this you will be the Beta of our pack?" Isoke smirked watching the fox ponder his choices.

"I guess I'll take the position... Thank you sir," Tokala bowed slightly and Isoke laughed.

"Come boy! To the stars we go then!"

"What! Already?"

ZOMG!_-_-_ZOMG!!_-_-_ZOMG!_-_-_ZOMG!_-_-_ZOMG!_-_-_ZOMG!_-_-_ZOMG!_-_-_ZOMG!_-_-_ZOMG!_-_-_ZOMG!_-_-_ZOMG!_-_-_ZOMG!_-_-__-_-_ZOMG!

(Newly appointed) Beta Male Tokala stood proudly in front of the battleship's primary computer along side his commander Isoke. The rest of the Combat Information Center staff going about their jobs on the Space Battleship The Murderous Bobby, (newly appointed) Lieutenant Colonel Tokala stood there wondering how he got to put on the green uniform of the space fleet command. He finally had his own ship to command... Okay, it wasn't his ship, but when Colonel Isoke left the room Tokala would get the chance to take command. Not only that, but he had two Space Destroyers under his command as well! Once again, they answered to Isoke, but he still had power over the two ship's commanders. This humanoid fox had done his pack proud and now he was partially in charge. Oh glory days!

Executive Officer Tokala looked down at the terminal computer in front of him and spoke, "sir, we are ready to begin the patrol." Isoke nodded and picked up a phone connected by a wire into the C.I.C's computer.

"All hands, standby by for increase in gravity. Engineering, bring us to quarter's strength thrust," the colonel smirked, "delta-v us into our patrol route." Everyone in the large C.I.C. Held onto something as the amount of gravity pushing against the ship and it's crew increased, making everything in the ship feel heavier. Which also made it harder to stand let alone walk in a straight line. Still! Tokala beamed in pride as he allowed all of the ship's force to push him back a few steps, taking in everything. The bad smelling recycled oxygen, the smell of metal pushing against metal, and don't forget the radiation radiating from the ship's engines as well as it's power core!

"The first trip is always the best and the worse," Isoke said, "you love it becasue its your first time being in coomand and your going to hate it becasue their is nothing to do in space, but wait." Tokala looked his commander in confusion.

"I know that space traveling is boring, but it can't be that bad."

"You don't even know..."

ZOMG!_-_-_ZOMG!!_-_-_ZOMG!_-_-_ZOMG!_-_-_ZOMG!_-_-_ZOMG!_-_-_ZOMG!_-_-_ZOMG!_-_-_ZOMG!_-_-_ZOMG!_-_-_ZOMG!_-_-_ZOMG!_-_-__-_-_ZOMG!

"One-million boxes of beer on the wall! One-million boxes of beer! Take one down pass it around! Nine-hundred and ninety-nine million, nine-hundred and ninety-nine thousand, nine-hundred and ninety-nine boxes of beer on the wall!" Tokala couldn't believe that the whole crew was humming that song all over the ship, in sync! Tokala too was bored, two weeks of drifting in space is boring, but still... At least all he did was reread a favorite book of his. Several times. Tokala's ears picked up a sound then the alarms went off. He jumped up from his bunk bed, still wearing his uniform and ran to the C.I.C. To report in. Upon arriving Tokala noticed everyone was in place and that Colonel Isoke was giving out orders.

"How many targets?" Isoke was looking at the C.I.C's main computer which stood in the center of the room, with different screens showing different data all over it.

"Nine ships in total sir. I have already put in all the data we have from what the sensor's have gotten so far. From the appearance and size of the ship's exhaust and the way the ships have thus far delta-v. I would say there is a battleship, possibly three of them, but to me it seems to be a battleship with a large escort." The sensor officer looked down to his terminal then looked back up, "sir."

Isoke turned to face the officer, "yes?"

"I believe that the fleet ahead of us is an intergalactic exploration fleet," Isoke nodded telling the soldier to explain, "the power output on those ships is behind me. We're talking very big engines here. Not only that, but traveling around with such large engines in a group of nine is dangerous. I would only do that if I was going to a location that I knew nothing about. Plus they should have detected us by now, but since they have done nothing so far I belive the crew is in some form of statis chamber."

"Very good," Isoke turned to Tokala, "ain't boring anymore huh? X.O. Get online with the gun crews. I want two rail gun batteries on all of our ships to being aiming at something. Tell the destroyers to standby, but to armed their missile batteries."

Tokala nodded and picked up a wired phone and began to give out the orders while Isoke picked up a similar phone and said, "engineering. Bring us to one-third thrust and delta-v the ship into a direct line with the incoming ships. If we have to I want to be able to bring to bear our mass drivers right away." Isoke remembered something and looked up to Tokala, "Tokala, tell the gun crews and the communications officer to inform our friends of our presence." Tokala obeyed.

Two rail guns fired a three round burst each of metal slugs which would miss by a long shot and was quickly followed by a message in english, which seemed to be the intergalactic language these days.

Unknown ships, identify yourselves and your purpose or you will be fired upon.

...
Vessels detected.
Total: Three
Most probable class: Destroyer
Most probable class: Destroyer
Most probable class: Battleship
Battleship moving at approximate speed of vector eight, facing fleet.
Warning: Two shots fired
Weapons: Railguns
Threat Level: Minimal
Railgun fire has missed fleet
Probable cause: Warning fire
Shields activated
Shield strength: 100%
Weapons online
Transmission incoming...
Transmission received
Language unknown
Attempt to translate
Translating...
Translating...
Translating failed.
Activate First Contact Protocol
Sending message...
Message sent.
Priority One:
Wake crew from statis sleep
Initiate Rising Program now
Rising Program online
Rising Program Initiated
Rising Program now in effect
Approximate time until Rising Program completion: three minutes, forty-two seconds
Await response to transmitted message
Priority One:
Protect crew at all costs
Protect fleet at all costs

The A.I. script had flashed by in nanoseconds, faster than most biological eyes could follow. Not that there was anyone to see it anyway, the crew was still unconscious. But even now steps were being taken to wake them.

The tubes disconnected from their hosts, retracting back into panels as the kitsune inside continued his or her sleep. The body was slowly but gently pushed out of the strange green nutrient-rich gel until the person was entirely out. Then the body, of it's own accord, would sink to it's knees, then back to rest on the buttocks, all eerily silent and unconscious, the eyes of the crew still closed, brains unresponsive.

Slowly, one by one, the crew would wake. For several seconds they would be immobile even after regaining consciousness. After about ten seconds the respective kitsune would find full control over his or her body, and shakily attempt to stand. Some made it, some clutched the wall or another crew mate for support, and some fell to the deck. After muscles not having worked for years, each was as weak as a newborn kitten, if only for a short time. Covered in a thin, faintly green slime, and shivering in the cold depths of the ship, each would stagger off to a separate door from the one they had entered years earlier. This one was unmarked, but inside contained dozens of shower heads with hot water to wash away the slime and bring the Xiscapians to a higher level of alertness.

Still, this was only just now happening, and every kitsune would not be woken for some minutes now, let alone be dressed or ready to assume their individual duties.
Minutes in which anything could happen.

The message sent was a simple video display. It showed a attractive kitsune female crew member in a olive green uniform bowing to the screen. She smiled and raised her hands, almost defensively, to those watching. "Greetings: I am avatar Ghost, A.I. of the Xiscapian Imperial Warship Carrier Ghost. We are the First Exploratory Fleet from the Kitsune Empire of Xiscapia, located in the Milky Way galaxy (coordinates appear at the bottom of the screen to access the side of the galaxy the Empire is in). We do not mean you harm, and are peacefully looking to make First Contact with other races. If you can understand this message, please reply."

The A.I. smiled the entire time and made an effort to seem entirely nonthreatening, even if she was speaking a language there was an astronomical chance of a race in a different galaxy understanding. Indeed, the chance of those the kitsune made First Contact with were unlikely to be humanoid, so even simple gestures of peace such as smiles would probably be lost on an alien.

The message was said in Common, the standard trade language of the Milky Way galaxy, then repeated in over a hundred different other languages, none of which would probably sound any familiar to the Mu Cephei. The idea was for the basic intent of peace to get though, though all the ships excluding the Medical ships had powered up shields and weaponry, for the Medical ships had no weapons at all.

So the fleet of ten ships hung in space, arranged to have the Cruisers first, then the Destroyers, then the Medical ships, then the Battleships and finally the Carriers. Weapons had been brought online, but none had made any kind of targeting lock on any of the three ships arrayed before enough firepower to destroy a planet several times over.

"What the hell?" Tokala looked to the screen on the large computer wondering what the heel the intruders sent them. Tokala looked to his pack leader.

"I think it is a sub-species of humans... Or foxes... Or both," Isoke smiled, "you just never know these days." Isoke turned to the communications officer.

"Sir, it appears they speak the language of the Milky Way," both the C.O and the X.O wondered what was she talking about, "it is a interstellar trade language used in Golf-Nine-Three-Four-Sierra-Sierra-Four." Tokala's ears shot up.

"Isn't Golf-Nine-Three-Four-Sierra-Sierra-Four the galaxy The Eight Great Dynasties are thinking of invading?" Isoke turned to his young X.O

"Yes, but that may have to change now," Isoke turned fully to the communication officer.

"Can we communicate with them?" The communication officer shook her head.

"We have only been able to pick up pieces of it and all of these other languages in the video are unknown. From what I can make-up from the common is," the communications officer pressed a button and some audio turned on, the voice of the A.I (now in Mu Cepheian) was playing.

---------: I am ------ -----, A.I. -- --- --------- Imperial Warship Carrier -----. We are --- First Exploratory Fleet from --- ------- Empire -- --------, located in --- Milky Way galaxy (coordinates ------ -- --- bottom -- --- screen -- access --- side -- --- galaxy --- Empire is in). We -- not ---- you harm, --- --- ---------- looking -- make First ------- ---- ----- -----. -- you --- understand ---- message, ------ reply.

"What the hell?" Tokala looked back to the video of the A.I as it replayed over and over again speaking in common.

Isoke sighed, "at least they seem to be peacful, but I don't like the 'Imperial Warship' part... Well," Isoke turned to Tokala, "what do we do now?"

Tokala was caught off guard and had to take a moment to think of an answer, "well, they don't speak english and they definitely don't speak Mu Cepheian. So we use what common we know to respond. Also, tell them that we know about the Milky Way and that we know it is filled with humans."

Isoke smiled, "very well. Communications officer, you heard the man. Respond with what you can." The communications officer nodded and began to type in her computer. Hopefully writing things that would make some sense.

No fight. No exchanging harm. Milky Way. Speak human language or other Milky Way language? You human foxes?

"X.O please inform the gun crews to bring the mass drivers to bear and tell them to get ready to fire for just in case shit hits the fan," Tokala wondered why Isoke was getting ready for battle. It wasn't like the nine... No wait, a new dot appeared on the sensor screen, ten ship fleet wasn't peaceful. Tokala, like a good soldier, obeyed orders and picked up a wired phone. In minutes two mass drivers were loaded with massive tungsten slugs and the power input of the two large weapons increased. The gun crews faced a paradox. They wanted to show off their skills and engage in battle, but they also feared the fact that, in space, death came all to easy to those who look for trouble. Even those who run away from trouble can't escape death's grasp.

Like ancient organisms pulling themselves up from primal ooze, the last of the kitsune were released from the nutrient gel and helped to the showers by their comrades. Inside the steam-filled rooms it was silent save for the noise of water washing down drains and thousands of bodies being scrubbed vigorously. Even as they washed the kitsune brushed teeth, smoothed out tufts of fur, cleaned out gummed eyes and rubbed soap in the crevices of their bodies.

The Ghost looked curiously at the broken Common coming in on her transmission feed. It looked encouraging:
No...harm....Way...human language...or...Way...foxes?
Sort of.
She tried again, this time in Basic, which was a branch-off of English, but should be much more clear to these...whoever they were:
Greetings again, this message should be much more understandable. As aforesaid, I am avatar Ghost, A.I. of the Xiscapian Imperial Warship Carrier Ghost. We are the First Exploratory Fleet from the Kitsune Empire of Xiscapia. We are...human-foxes, kitsune we call ourselves. Who, and what, are you?

The kitsune crews, moving quicker and thinking clearer now, quickly dressed and gathered their swords, heading off to their appropriate stations. It seemed the A.I. had already taken the initiative of First Contact, and Rear Admiral Inritus was only too happy to let "her" do the talking until the appropriate time for him to step in. His Admiral's uniform felt confining and restrictive after his time in statis, but that was how their clothes and armor felt to all of them, and it would wear off, just like the feeling of brain-muddledness and weakness did.

Standing on the bridge now with his Officers, Rear Admiral Inritus looked out at the three ships arranged before them. Peaceful, but armed, and not bad looking pieces of equipment...one could tell a lot about a race by it's ships. But what were the beings on the ships like? From the transmissions, it was evident they knew of humans, and, somehow, of foxes, but what were they, precisely?
Only time would tell...assuming they didn't breach some obscure taboo and start the Empire's first extragalactic war.

"Well, at least we aren't dead... Yet," Isoke laughed. Someone had to. Tension was beginning to build up throughout the entire patrol. While things were going great, who would have thought they would make contact with other humanoids and the fact they both had a (limited) way to communicate. There was still a possibility of a break down of communications which result in war. Which gave Isoke a problem. If he let the alien fleet live they could report the location of his home world and then all the aliens had to do was bring a big fleet. That would be the end of that. No more Mu Cephei and the fact they gave away the location of their "home world" did not help. What happens if its a fake so that they could earn our trust to backstab us later?

The message came in:
Greetings again, this message should be much more understandable. As beforesaid, I am avatar Ghost, A.I. of the Xiscapian Imperial Warship Carrier Ghost. We are the First Exploratory Fleet from the Kitsune Empire of Xiscapia. We are...human-foxes, kitsune we call ourselves. Who, and what, are you?

"Communcations officer," said officer looked up at her C.O.

"Sir, I did ny best to translate it. It seems to be a form of english," Isoke nodded.

"Yes and I thank you for your wonderful skills, but why is it that whenever important things, like what the aliens call themselves, show up it is always untranslatable?" The communcations officer bowed her head.

"Sorry," Isoke smiled.

"Do not worry, this just makes things more interesting! Tokala!" Tokala jumped slightly being surprise by his commander's sudden outburst. How the hell did this guy become the head of my pack?

"Sir?" Tokala turned all of his attention to his higher up.

"I'm sending you on a very speical mission," Tokala nodded, proud that he was finally getting a very important mission, "find me a fox on this ship! I know it will be hard, since Mu Cepheian foxes usually become scientist, but I'm sure you can do it. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to respond to a certain message." Isoke walked away.

"Yes sir," Tokala thought about his 'special mission'. Find a fox? Find a damn fox? Thats my all important mission! Why did I accept this job? I haven't even taken command yet!

Isoke ordered for a video response to be sent, it would be slower to send, but their friends wanted to know what they were so... General Isoke stood in front of a camera on a tripod set up in the middle of the C.I.C. He spoke in basic or what he knew of basic.

My name is Isoke, I hold the rank of General in the Mu Cepheian Empire's Space Fleet and I am in charge of the three vessels before you. As you can see I am a humanoid wolf. My species, the Mu Cepheians, are humanoid Canidaes. So we acutally have foxes just like you, but I digress. I am happy to see that we have at least one common language, to a point at least. While I understand that you are nothing more, but peaceful travelers. You have entered my home world's system. I cannot allow you to leave here without knowing that you will not backstab us later with a really big fleet. So, how do you want to go about this? I think we should try to avoid killing each other. I have a sizzling steak waiting for me in the mess hall and I am awfully hunger. If you would like you may join me.

By this point everyone in the fleet was at their stations, with pilots ready to scramble in case things got messy. The atmosphere was a sort of guarded curiosity, a need to know more about those the kitsune were communicating with without compromising the safety of the fleet. Rear Admiral Inritus waited patiently for the other ship to respond as he reviewed the logs of communication and A.I. script, tapping though screens while sitting comfortably in his command chair. He didn't think a fight would start...if they hadn't attacked yet, they either never would or would wait until the Xiscapians got in close before attempting to capture or destroy them.

"Sir," said the Communication Officer, "they have responded with a video link. ...Uh, link failed, Rear Admiral."
"Can we at least get audio?" demanded Inritus.
"Ah...yes sir. Audio feed playing now."
A voice rang out over the bridge from the speakers of the Communications Officer's station:
"My name is Isoke, I hold the rank of General in the Mu Cepheian Empire's Space Fleet and I am in charge of the three vessels before you. As you can see I am a humanoid wolf. My species, the Mu Cepheians, are humanoid Canidaes. So we actually have foxes just like you, but I digress. I am happy to see that we have at least one common language, to a point at least. While I understand that you are nothing more, but peaceful travelers. You have entered my home world's system. I cannot allow you to leave here without knowing that you will not backstab us later with a really big fleet. So, how do you want to go about this? I think we should try to avoid killing each other. I have a sizzling steak waiting for me in the mess hall and I am awfully hunger. If you would like you may join me."

There was silence for a moment as the words were broadcasted throughout the entire First Exploratory Fleet. Crews digested the words, thinking them over, as others waited to see what the Rear Admiral would do. He, too, seemed to consider, staring thoughtfully at the bulkhead, before swiveling in his seat to face his Executive Officer. "Joo, prepare a shuttle immediately."
The white uniformed female Xiscapian stared. "Sir? Do you really think that's w-"
"Their General invited someone aboard, and I think we should eat together, commander to commander. Besides, it would be rude to simply beam aboard their bridge. Good way to get myself shot...or turned into a randomized stream of particles upon impacting their shields." finished Inritus. This General Isoke seemed a rather casual, laid-back sentient, but that was not what was on his mind. Or, indeed, the minds of any of the other crews across the fleet. A humanoid wolf! Nay, an entire nation of humanoid canines! It was incredible. Before, as a species, the Xiscapians had been utterly alone in the galaxy, and, so they thought, in the universe.
Evidently this was not the case.

Minutes later a white shuttle unfolded it's graceful wings and lifted away from the first hanger on the Shadow Hunter. Aboard Inritus gazed out the porthole as the shuttle glided into the endless field of stars, not back to his own ship or fleet, but forward to the Battleship he was to land on. Excitement pounded though his veins, and it was all he could do to maintain his dignified, cool demeanor.
First Contact was about to be initiated.

Not though communications or robots or even video or holos, but rather real life, face-to-face. Or face-to-snout, however one put it. Behind the Rear Admiral two Black Guards sat stiffly on the shuttle bench, rifles clasped in their hands vertically. The silent armored Xiscapians were to be his personal guard while he was aboard, to protect him and get him off the Battleship if the situation turned hostile, to die for him if they had to. The Rear Admiral did not think it would come to that, but protocol demanded it, and he wasn't entirely ungrateful of their admittedly looming, intimidating presence.

As the shuttle flew over the the Battleship the Shadow Hunter again sent a message:
A representative will be joining you shortly.

A representative will be joining you shortly.


"Tokala, you have the ship... Tokala?" Isoke looked around the C.I.C. "Where the hell is Tokala?"

"Sir," the sensors officer said, "you send the X.O. on a special mission to find a fox."

"Oh, well then... Who wants to be in charge while I'm away?" No one answered, but there were a few coughs of embarrassment. How could they General be such an idiot? "No one then? Fine. You," a random Space Corp. soldier pointed at herself, "yes you. Come with me. Everyone else, if you need me I'll be by the hanger bay." The pair of Mu Cepheians began their walk though the steel hallways of the battleship.

"So, we are having steak today, right?" Isoke asked the Elite Heavy Infantrymen. She clicked on her radio and spoke into it. Then she turned to her commander.

"One moment sir," the radio came back to life a few minutes later. After a few seconds the heavily armored soldier once again turned her attention to her C.O. "Sir, today was suppose to be pork chops."

"Change that to steak please and tell the chefs to be at the standby with as much food as their willing to cook. We might have to go though many dishes before our new friends find something that they would like to eat." The solider nodded and began talking into her radio. They stopped by a steel door and waited for the elevator.

"Sir, are you sure this is okay?" Isoke turned his head to the soldier, "I mean, do you think this is safe? Are sure one of those aliens aren't going to bring abroad a bomb or something. Sir, with all due respect that is one of our most favorite tactics in the Space Corp. We send an Armored Infantrymen on board an enemy ship disguised as a translation robot, but in fact it has a H-bomb stuffed into it and if the enemy does not give up their ship to us we detonate the bomb. Sir," Isoke had been nodding to every word the soldier said.

"That is very true," the steel door dilated and they stepped in. Isoke pressed a button and the door dilated again, the elevator began to move up. "But you have defeated your own argument with one word used in your argument."

"What would that be sir?" The soldier checked to see if her rifle was in working order. Once they reached the hanger there was no telling what would happen.

"Only enemies use that tactic on each other and I don't think these Xiscapians are our enemies. You see," The soldier interrupted him.

"I'm sorry sir, but you can't be sure of that. What happens if," now he interrupted her.

"I know they are our friends because I am over due for a promotion and this is my one way ticket to fleet commander," Isoke grinned and the doors dilated again. They stepped off the elevator and walked up to a massive pair of blast doors. Behind them was the hanger where only shuttles and a few interceptor fighters laid in the vacuum.

Outside the ship's lights began to turn off say for the few that warned craft that they were getting to close to the ship. As soon as most of the outside lights were off certain lights began to turn on, brighter then the others these lights would guide the shuttle safely into the hanger bay where powerful magnets would attach the vessel to the hanger's floor. Afterwards a shield would turn on and surround the vessel. The shield would isolated the space between the shuttle and the blast doors from the outside. Once the blast doors open air would fill the shielded area. Making it safe for the Xiscapians to walk though the hanger into the interior of the battleship.

The shields have been turn off. Follow the lights. Please be advised that the landing sequence will be automated once you enter the hanger.

The pilot carefully guided the little white ship though the doors inside the hanger, hovering now, moving slowly forward to the automated flashing landing sequence. The shuttle's wings folded up and it set down, three struts coming out to firmly attach the ship to the deck. This was unneeded due to the magnetic field already in place, but the pilot didn't know that. He would stay behind in the shuttle unless these new aliens wanted him to come out for some reason. Looking pretty and talking carefully was the Rear Admiral's job.

The ramp extended outward and lowered to the deck, glimmering shields shining around it, and the first two beings out were the Black Guards. The two kitsune were armed to the teeth and covered in a armor that was not black as a color but seemed to suck in light, like a black hole. It was flame-retardant, water-proof, bullet-proof, laser-deflecting, entirely enclosed and shielded to prevent vacuum, gas, poison or any other foreign matter from entering, not to mention the extensive array of scanners and sensors built in to the suit and helmet. Their only visible weapons were the blaster assault rifles slung across their backs, a combat knife on their belts, and a katana on their waist.

Both took up positions at either side of the ramp, standing at attention as a third figure came down. Rear Admiral Inritus descended slowly, lights shining off his black boots, expression carefully blank, black uniform colored only with the rankings marking him as Rear Admiral, a XIN cap perched on his coal-black hair. The hair falling over his orange eyes was not regulation length, but that was to be expected after years in statis. Two gray ears poked out of the top of his head, and one could easily see the large gray tail behind him. His only weapons was a red katana sword and a silver pistol in a holster on his hip.

None of the kitsune could see, hear or smell anyone. If this was a trap, they had ways of protecting themselves, should it come to that. The presence of the shield indicated it probably wasn't, but one could never be too careful.

And so they waited for their hosts to greet them, Inritus sweating slightly, wondering what exactly they would look like. These days, humanoid could mean absolutely anything...

Another Heavy Infantrymen walked into the hanger from another elevator nearby, he moved to stand by his comrade and commander. Isoke nodded and a 'space' traffic controller inside a room above the hanger inserted a key into a computer console. Peering through a window overlooking the hanger, the controller gulped and pressed a button. Red lights flashed and a female voice boomed over the loud speakers.

-Be advised. Hanger bay doors are opening.

Very slowly, inch by inch, the massive blast doors began to move. It hadn't occurred to Isoke until this very moment, when it was too late to change anything, that he was putting his whole ship in danger. His whole patrol unit in fact was in danger. Why hadn't he called for back-up? Why didn't he send soldiers to their ships and have a mecha filled with bombs for just in case? Thoughts and feeling of all kinds began to surge though his mind. An odd feeling began to build up in his stomach as the doors were less then half way open.

"So, green or gray?" Isoke chuckled grimly.

"What sir?" One of the Heavy Infantrymen asked.

"Do you think they are going to be tiny green men or tiny gray men?" The Heavy Infantrymen chuckled.

"Sir, with all due respect. Who said they had to be green or gray? Or tiny for that matter," Isoke laughed.

"You bring a very good point!" There were a few laughs, giggles, and chuckles from the three canines, but the feeling was the same. It wasn't even really the idea of certain death from these creatures that worried them. It was the wait that was gnawing at their insides. They had an idea of what these Xiscapians looked like, but what of their culture? Their ideas on life, science, art, and everything else that matters or doesn't matters.

Or what of their insides? WOuld they be similar to Mu Cepheians or would fist contact result in both sides dyeing after being introduced to a new chemicals their bodies are not ready to defend against. So many questions to answer yet the doors were almost open now!

The soldiers drew their weapons and stood at the ready.

Isoke stood as straight as he could, looking directly ahead towards his guest. Only looking down to make sure his military grade clothing was all in order.

He muttered under his breath, "god help us."

"Great Qonn..." gasped Rear Admiral Inritus as the blast doors at the end of the hanger, angonizingly slow, slid open. He stared at the...well, wolf was one way to describe it. More like...not a dingo, a jackel maybe? In any case, he was definitly different from the kitsune. He walked on two legs, but they were shaped like a dogs, that is if dogs had been designed to walk upright. Fur all over him, claws, tail and ears, everything. He wore a uniform, of what rank Inritus could not say, and there were two armored soldiers with guns flanking him. Obviously one of the higher-ups.

Yellow eyes met yellow eyes, and for a moment nobody moved. The Black Guards stood perfectly still, sizing up the heavy infantrymen, but there was not so much as a twitch of a tail or ear. it was utterly silent. Could they have already offended them? Finally, very carefully and deleberatly, Rear Admiral Inritus bowed deeply, staring at the deck before straightening up, and he sensed the Guards behind him do the same. In accented Basic, he spoke.
"Greetings."

Well, thought Isoke, time to earn your pay. The two guards flanking Isoke did not even seem to breathe as they kept a watching eye on their Xiscapians counterparts. The three canines did their best to quell their curiosity to inspect the Xiscapians before, but that was becoming ever more harder. Isoke could only guess that these Xiscapians had come into contact with humans at one point in time just like the Mu Cepheians. So at least they had something in common.

"Greetings," Isoke spoke in common, "my name is Quinn Isoke. I am the head of my pack, a subgroup within my clan of the Quinn. I am in charge of this vessel." Isoke swallowed his next breathe, "I am just ask that you stand still as several sensors scan you for any possible weapons or chemicals that you may be caring. Once this is done we can move onto a private room where we will discuss about our little situation." Isoke grinned.

"Otherwise, I welcome you to The Murdering Toddy!" Isoke laughed. It came out awkwardly, with the tension between the two species growing high it became harder for Isoke to think lightly of this situation. During all this the same Mu Cepheian who opened the doors pressed another button to begin the scanning.

"Thank you," said Inritus somewhat stiffly. "I am very happy to be here. I am Rear Admiral Inritus of the Xiscapian Imperial Navy, commander of the First Exploratory Fleet." He and his guard did not move as instructed, indeed the sensors would find a large number of weapons concealed on the Black Guards, including knives, shurikens, small explosives, pistols and ammunition, but only a pistol, clearly visible, a katana at his side and a knife in his boot on the Rear Admiral. It was good that they were cautious. Anyone who just welcomed whoever they found aboard their ship was asking for trouble.

For the first time Inritus smiled, revealing his sharp teeth. "I have to admit, I did not expect success so soon into the expedition, especially not First Contact with another intelligent species."

Still, many questions remained to be answered. Were these people democratic? Socialist? Totalitarian? Anarchic? How many of them were there? Did they come from a single planet, or were they part of a galaxy-spanning Empire? Did they keep slaves? What were their views on basic sentient rights? Had they had contact with other aliens before? How easy were they to offend? Did they have advanced A.I. systems? What religion did they hold with?

The radio of one of the Heavy Infantrymen clicked and a voice speaking in Mu Cepheian came on, "they got explosives and a bunch of primitive weapons. The bombs pose the biggest threat." Isoke nodded confirming that he did in deed hear this.

"Excuse me," Isoke spoke slowly in hopes of not angering his guest, "you can keep the rest of your weapons, but the explosives must be left behind in your shuttle. One of my guards will escort you back to you ship." Isoke could only hope that he hadn't just started a war. Isoke walked up to the Read Admiral slowly, calmly. He stopped when he was only a few paces away from his counterpart.

"Hello Rear Admiral Inritus, since you have given me you rank I shall inform you of mine. I am a General in the Mu Cepheian Space Fleet. This is my ship and my patrol. Once the explosives are left behind we can move onto the private dining hall where we may throw questions at each other while dining." Isoke grinned, "I wish to ask the first question. What type of food do you like? Meat? Veggies? Name it and if we have it it will be served." One of the guards moved by the elevator and pressed the button, the door dilated. The guard stood by the elevator waiting for everyone to get in. The other guard moved to Isoke's side, waiting to follow the Xiscapian that would put away the bombs or kill the Xiscapian that tried to detonate one of their bombs.

OOC:
How closed is semi-closed?

'cause it'd be five kinds of irony if a civilian Kanuckistani mapping expedition stumbled upon ya, and it's been RL years sense I did a first contact RP.

OOC: *shrugs* Well...I have no objections to your joining, as long as you RP well and have a legitimate reason for being here. What about you, Mu?
IC:
"Of course," said Rear Admiral Inritus, but the Guards did not move until he made a simple hand motion indicating the shuttle. The both turned and entered, coming back a few moments later seemingly unaltered, but scans would show their high explosives and grenades had been stowed in the shuttle.
"What type of food do you like? Meat? Veggies? Name it and if we have it it will be served."
"Meat," the kitsune smiled, "nearly anything a human can eat we can eat, as I presume you have come in contact with them before. But meat, mainly, cooked or raw." One Guard moved forward, into the elevator, while the other flanked Rear Admiral Inritus as he entered. While the Guards were disarmed of their explosives, they were still formidably armed with weapons and martial combat. If needed, they could, probably, escort the Rear Admiral back the hanger and escape, though chances were they would pay with their lives in the process by doing so.

OOC: I agree with everything Xiscapia said. If you rp well and can think of a legit reason for joining then I have no problem with you popping in for a visit.

IC:
The guard who had escorted the two Xiscapians returned and whispered in Isoke's ear, in Mu Cepheian, that the guards stowed away their explosives. Isoke whispered back and the guard clicked on his radio. Moments later the hanger doors began to close. After a few minutes they were completely shut and the force field was cut off. Now the shuttle was, for the most part, cut off from the rest of the ship. Even if the ship was to blow up by "accident" only a few sections of the ship would be damaged.

"I'm very happy that you prefer meat because I don't feel like wasting all of that steaks the cooks made and I don't think I can eat all that many by myself." Isoke chuckled, "what is your opinion on drinks? We Mu Cepheians drink water mostly, but I think we can pull out some human drinks if you want any."

Isoke entered the elevator and the guards followed behind. He put a key into the elevator pad and turned it. Afterwards he pressed a button and the doors dilated. Moments later they began to move. One of the Heavy Infantrymen's radios turned on and a voice speaking in Mu Cepheian blared on. Isoke smiled.

"Mission success! Tokala good job," Isoke turned to his the three Xiscapians, "I thought it would only be fair to give a run down on Mu Cepheians by someone you can," Isoke eyed the kitsune,"to a point, relate to in appearance. My executive officer and a Space Corp. soldier will be joining us for dinner." The elevator stopped and the door opened. Isoke walked out and his guards walked ahead of him. This floor was the only one of a kind because it was separated from the rest of the ship. Only the C.O. and the X.O. could come here without permission.

The two guards flanked a steel set of doors which seemed to be the only ones in the whole hallway. Isoke opened the doors and led his guest into a dining room. An entire wall directly in front of the group was entirely made up of screens which projected a moving image of the space outside the ship. They were just like windows without the risk. In the middle of the large room laid a large wooden table, big enough to seat at least fifty people, but only a corner of it had silverware on it. There were three doors in the room besides the entrance. One led to the private kitchen, the other the C.O'a room, and the other the X.O's room. Isoke gestured to three chairs and smiled.

"If you would please take a seat, we will begin." He took a sniff and let the smell radiating from the kitchen fill his nostrils, "do you have anything you want to ask me before we begin?"

"What is your opinion on drinks? We Mu Cepheians drink water mostly, but I think we can pull out some human drinks if you want any."
"Water will do fine," murmured Inritus.
Entering the dining room, the two Guards did not sit but rather one took a post by the door, while the other stood behind the chair to the right of the Rear Admiral, hands behind his back, clearly a bodyguard. As Rear Admiral Inritus sat he hoped the Mu Cepheins would not take this as an offense, but the Guards ate and drank only their own food. Clearing his throat, Inritus took up a napkin and placed it on his lap.
Inritus wondered as to how the Executive Officer of the Murdering Toddy could resemble him. Perhaps he was like the General, but a fox? That would be the most logical explination. But the exact anatomy and such remained to be seen.
"Do you have anything you want to ask me before we begin?"
"I believe all questions can be asked and answered over the meal. I must confess I am quite hungry for something real after so long eating though a tube." he chuckled.

"How the hell do you miss a freakn' star system?!"

The diner had gone suddenly quiet as the fleet made what was expected to be yet another routine jump through interstellar space, if you ignored the presence of an entire star some three hundred light seconds "above" them, along with it's attendant planets, where none should be for some lightyears around.

Only the handful of vulpine waitresses moved, mindless cybernetic puppets' AI unaffected as they continued to serve their stunned patrons, now gazing across the KCS Easter Bunny's dorsal deck to their new sun, casting noon-day shadows across the parking lot.

"Roll drones! Everyone roll drones, damnit!" the ship's lapine owner/avatar snapped, commander of this fleet, owner of Happy Bunny Astrometrics Inc., which was their current employer. That they hadn't the moment they jumped was a sign of complacency, of months of empty void as they charted a swathe of new stars and found no one.

"G-type, nine-ten planets," another muttered, red panda, KCS Hydra, as sensors augmented by building drone-shells built up a picture, "Looks like, wait, crap."

"We're not alone."



Outside, the survey group's ten vessels had arrived - literally just *appeared* with a half-moment flicker of uncertainty - in loose formation, spread over two light seconds, as several drone shells formed in the surrounding five; a sensor array of epic scale that now spoke a haze of sensor-distorting countermeasures, guarding against a surprise attack upon the fleet now drifting unpowered on a course that would by chance take it through the outer system in about ten months if left unchanged, as ever-present ASPEW voided the supernatural, temporal, and extradimentional within their shield radius'.





OOC:
Ug, sorry, it's crap, but it's also 12:45am and I've an early morning - stupid ISP was down most of the day.

Approximate fleet disposition; subject to tweaking. All civilian/paramilitary.

1x Foundry Ship (1500m) Star Forge
1x Survey Cruiser (1250m) Easter Bunny
1x Escort Carrier (975m) Fission Pile
1x Missile Cruiser (750m) Atomic Rocket
2x Freighter (1250m) Mister Eatonrun, Quartermaster
1x Missile Destroyer(400m) Hydra
3x Frigates(300m) Rob's Sweet Ride, Savage Chicken, Questor

"Water will do fine," murmured Inritus.

...

"I believe all questions can be asked and answered over the meal. I must confess I am quite hungry for something real after so long eating though a tube." he chuckled.

"Very well," Isoke took a seat and watched as the Xiscapians soldiers took up their positions. Whatever, Isoke thought, their lost. Once again one of the Heavy Infantrymen's radios went off.

"We got new arrivals in the system! I have requested assistance from a nearby squadron of ships. Thought we could use the help since we're now surrounded by ships," Isoke's ears picked up the radio's message and shot up like a bullet.

"Are they other Xiscapians?" Isoke questioned the Admiral, "I don't like where this is going. Mu Cepheian space has been compromised twice today. That should not be happening," Isoke began to pace thinking over the situation.

"Call back the C.I.C. Tell them I want a E.T.A. on that squadron's arrival!" One of the Mu Cepheian soldiers began talking on their radio.

"Sir, it will take the ships at least fifteen minutes. There are six of them, all of them are Space Destroyers sir." Isoke nodded and Tokala just so happen to walk into the room with the Mu Cepheian fox.

"Sir, what is wrong?" Tokala asked. The humanoid fox turned to the Xiscapians. Fox ears? What now?

"Tokala! Stay here I must go to the C.I.C! We have unwelcomed guest! Again!" Isoke turned to his guest.

"Sorry, but I must go." Isoke ran out the room into the elevator and vanished.

"He didn't mean it when he said you are unwelcome guest," Tokala looked over the Xiscapians. Taking in their features, "of yeah. This is Brian. He is what humans call a fox on two legs."

"Yo, whats up?"



Snap



"Give me an update!" Isoke barked walking into the C.I.C.

"I have detected eight or nine, maybe ten ships in the outer rim of the system sir. They seem to be running on low power, but the sensors have been able to pick up the little radiation being produced by their ships." The sensors officer spoke emotionlessly, giving all the facts without opinion.

"Understood, send a standard identification message,"a message was sent.

Unknown ships, identify yourselves and your purpose or you will be fired upon.

While the unknown ships were not out of weapons range by the time the rounds would have arrived they would be way off course. Thus no warning shots were fired.

OOC: What species is Tokala?
IC:
Inritus watched the Mu Cephei, half in bemusement and half in alarm, as they detected the new arrivals. Almost simultaneously with the report had come one from the Shadow Hunter to the Black Guards, who had told the Rear Admiral though their telepathic links. The First Exploratory Fleet had been ordered to bring shields up but keep their weapons powered down and not move or fire unless fired upon. Scans had told them that of the ten ships, only six were armed, and not in such a capacity to pose a threat to any of the advanced military ships, with the possible exception four hundred meter one.

"He didn't mean it when he said you are unwelcome guest. Oh yeah. This is Brian. He is what humans call a fox on two legs."

"Yo, whats up?"
"I understand," Inritus smiled pleasantly. "Greetings, Brian." He rose and bowed. "Are you in good health?" He inquired politely.

Things had settled down a bit in the last minute as the task group came to grips with the situation, drones by the hundred thousand augmenting their awareness, providing on-demand ECM, and if pressed, an impressive arsenal of kinetic kill vehicles.

"They're bound to spot us soon, you know," Captain Notevil of the KCS Atomic Rocket piped up, popping a plant-spawned meat bulb into his lupine maw, "If nothing else, we're not equipped to mask our hull heat; they'll spot us soon enough if they haven't already, we might as well light up the actives."

"...And I doubt it would look good if they spotted us skulking out here - probably assume we didn't jump but came in under stealth or-" Easter Bunny's avatar - atleast so called by convention, the Distributed Sapience greater in scope, as were her few peers so assembled with the crowd - paused, as new telemetry came in over the fleet's network, "Well, so much for that. Does anyone know what they said?"

"Unknown protocol, sample size's too small to decrypt - you know that," Hydra quipped, sighing, "Atleast they're not shooting, but we might just be out of their range. You wanna reply with analog?"

"Right, that's about as universal as you get. Now, do they speak English or Klingon?" More groans than laughs replied to the rabbit, "Right. Active sensors, tac shields, yer go - might as well. But keep the weapons stowed and ECM light, and I will eat anyone who paints them with fire control - no mischief!"

"Is that a promise?"

"Shut up, Rob."




Outside, exotic Kanuckistani barrier fields powered from navigational strength to combat levels, as the massive array of drones lighting up with a sudden wash of active sensor emissions, flooding the system with powerful active scans. A mix of sleek, boxy, and ad-hoc vessels - the Fission Pile in particular living up to it's name, complete with nine-hole golf course - they pulsed reactionless IDD drives, establishing station-keeping with the fleet that hailed them.




"This is Captain East of the Kanuckistani Civilian Vessel Easter Bunny,"
the reply swiftly came, universal analog, broadcast from a drone in the
general direction of Isoke's vessel, female voice speaking accented
Kanuckistani English, "We're a mapping and survey expedition under
Happy Bunny Astrometrics Incorporated, out of Kanata, Kanuckistani
Home Cluster, Kanuckistan, Milky Way Galaxy. Be advised your previous hail
was indecipherable. Easter Bunny out."

The hail would repeat, again and again, twice in each of the top thousand
most wide-spread languages known to Milky Way civilization.





Closer examination of the fleet would prove the Xiscapian analysis quite wrong, however, the fleet universally armed, and several quite heavily at that. But then it wasn't always easy to recognise alien technology, in power or purpose, and the drone shells were putting out enough ECM to, while not mask their location, atleast degrade sensor detail, and hinder those inclined to a surprise attack.



OOC:
Can I get a range, or shall I just make one up? I'd say atleast ten lightseconds, if not some lightminutes. It's an oft overlooked detail of rather important implication.


Also, as per Mu's first post, Tokala is a humanoid Red Fox.

OOC: What species is Tokala?

IC:
"I understand," Inritus smiled pleasantly. "Greetings, Brian." He rose and bowed. "Are you in good health?" He inquired politely.

OOC: Apparently a Red Fox (damn...)

"Oh yeah," Tokala, "I just relized something..." The Space Corp. soldier laguhed.

"You just realized that you wasted your time looking for a fox when your one yourself?" Tokala just stared at the soldier.

"Shit," Tokala sighed, "sir, we are both in great health. Thanks for asking. Do you wish to go back to your ship or do you wish to stay here?"




"This is Captain East of the Kanuckistani Civilian Vessel Easter Bunny,"
the reply swiftly came, universal analog, broadcast from a drone in the
general direction of Isoke's vessel, female voice speaking accented
Kanuckistani English, "We're a mapping and survey expedition under
Happy Bunny Astrometrics Incorporated, out of Kanata, Kanuckistani
Home Cluster, Kanuckistan, Milky Way Galaxy. Be advised your previous hail was indecipherable. Easter Bunny out."

The hail would repeat, again and again, twice in each of the top thousand
most wide-spread languages known to Milky Way civilization.



OOC:
Can I get a range, or shall I just make one up? I'd say atleast ten lightseconds, if not some lightminutes. It's an oft overlooked detail of rather important implication.


Also, as per Mu's first post, Tokala is a humanoid Red Fox.

OOC: Now how did I forget my own character's appearance? :headbang: The range you have given can do for now I guess (bad at measurements). Just for reference, are we here to make friends or enemies? The answer will help me to set up a mood within my characters (fear of battle, new hopes, etc).


"The first message never works! At least they speak english though. Or some of it," Isoke sighed, "how much of the message could not be translated?"

The communcations officer did a quick scan of her computer before speaking, "sir. About eight precent of the message was lost due to space interference. However, as you just heard, the parts which I could save has informed us of their intentions."

"Fine. Respond once again and this time translate it into Milky Way English and focus the message on the lead ship."

Be advised that you have just entered Mu Cephei space. Inform us of your intentions or you'll be fired upon.

The squadron of destroyers were now only a few minutes away and a second message was sent to a remote station in orbit of one of the planets in the system. It would take the message at least an hour or so, but Isoke was beginning to feel uneasy of his current situation.

OOC: Well I noticed but I assumed you had some kind of plan...
IC:
Apparently not in as good health as you thought you were...
Rear Admiral Inritus looked from the Marine to the Executive Officer, back and forth with a bemused smile on his face. Was this some kind of joke?
"I will stay here. I am confident that my Executive Officer can hold up for me if combat does occur." First Contact demanded the current emissary to another race was to stay with that race for the duration of a battle, excepting if the battle was against Xiscapian forces or their allies, if the aliens asked the diplomat to leave, or the fleet the ambassador had been deployed from was in grave danger.

In his head Inritus continued to communicate with the First Exploratory Fleet:
Status?
Shields are at maximum, weapons on stand-by, pilots are ready to scramble if needed. Reported his Executive Officer, a female by the name of Joo.
What of the new fleet?
Scans are inconclusive at this time due to range, interference with the instruments and the strangeness of the designs, but they do not appear to be an invasion fleet. What we first mistook for fighters are actually drones of some sort, and many of the ships seem decidedly civilian, corporation constructed and deployed perhaps.
Do they pose a threat to us?
Probably not to our fleet, but I cannot say definitely without a closer look or demonstration of their power. The ships do not appear to be heavily armed, but the shields are not like any we have seen before. There is a remote possibility that this is in fact an invasion fleet, disguised as civilians.
Well if that's true, they're not fooling anyone. Carry on, X.O. Joo, and keep me informed.
Certainly, Rear Admiral.

OOC: Now how did I forget my own character's appearance? :headbang: The range you have given can do for now I guess (bad at measurements). Just for reference, are we here to make friends or enemies? The answer will help me to set up a mood within my characters (fear of battle, new hopes, etc).



OOC:
I'll call it 90 lightseconds(27 million kilometers[MSK]), then, tho that would place you atleast 3.5 lightminutes(63 MSk) below the orbital plane. For comparison, the Earth is about 150 million KM from the sun. And, yeah, I tend to make extensive use of range and distance in space RP, especially in combat where I can damn near weaponize it in combination with maneuver and positioning, which in turn has implications when things are 'tense'/unknown.

At present, we'd be pretty darn far apart - energy weapons and unguided projectiles(like railguns) are pretty useless because of the long time it would take to hit(or, rather, miss a moving, maneuvering target), tho I, atleast, can still missile you. But then I can missile anything in the solar system if I don't mind waiting - Kanuckistani missiles are spiffy like that.

As for intentions, my characters don't really have any, and certainly aren't hostile, but there could be misunderstandings, depending on how things go - I'm reminded of the KCV Daggerfall Incident, but I doubt you'll be nearly so bloody-minded.

Probably make friends*, but anything could happen - makes life more interesting. ;)


Also, um, I believe Isoke's been described as both a wolf and an African Wild Dog.


(*tho the fact I'm listening to Ride of the Valkyries at the moment probably doesn't help. :D )


Also, Xiscapia, Kanuckistan is one of the major ESUS powers - I think you might have some interaction with other members(I see you mentioned as a trading partner of Trailers?), so I could throw you some basic data if you think you'd have a little intel, or you could ask them(ask about the Battleplates :D ).

Anywho, enough of me chattering.

IC:

"Yeah, we've gotten a pretty good look at the rest of the system, Group 2 can't be local," Hydra mused, as they discussed accumulating sensor results, a trickle of smallcraft arriving for lunch as post-jump traffic resumed amongst the fleet.

"Hope we haven't interrupted anything fragile," Easter frowned, then blinked, "Huh. Lookit this."


Be advised that you have just entered Mu Cephei space. Inform
us of your intentions or you'll be fired upon.


"So we have a name - doesn't ring a bell, but I'll run it through the nets back home," the Questor's 'coonish Captain mused, gesturing in the general direction of Isoke's fleet with a spork, "But didn't you already kinda tell him our intentions?"

"Well, implied, yeah, but I can understand if they'd want something a little more specific." the rabbit replied, "They might've been pre-contact until those other guys showed up, and then we arrive. Still, might want to send out some cultural feelers while they're still at range."




"As I said, we're a mapping and survey expedition - our intentions
are mapping and surveying. We didn't expect to find you here, but
that's why we're out here," the reply came as befor, tho only in
english this time, the female voice amused in tone and inflection; "Tho
if you want to start shooting, we could stand to clear out some
room - fabbers haven't had much else to do for the last year but
churn out missiles."

The commsend ended with a light-hearted chuckle.

OOC: Well I noticed but I assumed you had some kind of plan...
IC:

"I will stay here. I am confident that my Executive Officer can hold up for me if combat does occur."

OOC: No...

IC:
"Well then... Would you like to have something to eat? As the secound in command of this ship I can assure you that I can take the commander's position here. Or do you wish to wait for the commander?" Tokala inquired, half wondering if combat was really going to happen. Firguring that Brian was of no use now and that the Space Corp. fighter squadron on the ship could be called in at any moment Tokala turned to the fighter pilot.

"Dismissed," Brian turned to face Tokala and bowed his head before leaving the room. Tokala wondered what he would have to do if combat came. He had to look over their guest, but what if Isoke needed him? While Isoke is one of the most respected members of his pack and of his clan, he could still be overpowered. Tokala took a seat by Admiral Inritus and grinned. Hoping that these creatures could not read his mind. You just never know these days.

OOC:
I'll call it 90 lightseconds(27 million kilometers[MSK]), then, tho that would place you [i]atleast 3.5 lightminutes(63 MSk) below the orbital plane. For comparison, the Earth is about 150 million KM from the sun. And, yeah, I tend to make extensive use of range and distance in space RP, especially in combat where I can damn near weaponize it in combination with maneuver and positioning, which in turn has implications when things are 'tense'/unknown.

At present, we'd be pretty darn far apart - energy weapons and unguided projectiles(like railguns) are pretty useless because of the long time it would take to hit(or, rather, miss a moving, maneuvering target), tho I, atleast, can still missile you. But then I can missile anything in the solar system if I don't mind waiting - Kanuckistani missiles are spiffy like that.

As for intentions, my characters don't really have any, and certainly aren't hostile, but there could be misunderstandings, depending on how things go - I'm reminded of the KCV Daggerfall Incident, but I doubt you'll be nearly so bloody-minded.

Probably make friends*, but anything could happen - makes life more interesting. ;)


Also, um, I believe Isoke's been described as both a wolf and an African Wild Dog.


(*tho the fact I'm listening to Ride of the Valkyries at the moment probably doesn't help. :D )


Also, Xiscapia, Kanuckistan is one of the major ESUS powers - I think you might have some interaction with other members(I see you mentioned as a trading partner of Trailers?), so I could throw you some basic data if you think you'd have a little intel, or you could ask them(ask about the Battleplates :D ).

Anywho, enough of me chattering.

IC:


"As I said, we're a mapping and survey expedition - our intentions
are mapping and surveying. We didn't expect to find you here, but
that's why we're out here," the reply came as befor, tho only in
english this time, the female voice amused in tone and inflection; "Tho
if you want to start shooting, we could stand to clear out some
room - fabbers haven't had much else to do for the last year but
churn out missiles."

The commsend ended with a light-hearted chuckle.



OOC: Yeah, besides for missiles were too far apart for other Mu Cepheian weapons. I really need to start keeping track of my characters. Tokala was a mistake, but Isoke I got mixed up with two other captain characters that I have (both are wolves). Mu Cepheians have made contact with humans (in the Milky Way) and so they do have some knowledge of their galaxy. There is also some (limited) trade, but relations are very light since the distance makes it near impossible for consent trade.

IC:

Isoke nodded showing the rest of the C.I.C. that he understood the message and that he wanted silence to think. The ships were out of weapon's range. While missiles could be fired they would have limited delta-v'ing ability. Kinetic weapons could make the distance, but the hostile ships could easily doge them. He could definitely not ignore them. They now knew of Mu Cephei's location. They either were to become allies or were to be destroyed in the protection of Mu Cephei. Isoke grimaced at the fact that he only had one good option.

"Send them a message of good will. Ask them to move there fleet closer so that communication will be easier and tell the cooks to ready for more guest," the communications officer got to work.

Mapping and survey expedition fleet, please be advised that newly met species are not allowed to map out Mu Cepheian space. If you wish to open relations then move your fleet closer. While we ask that you keep weapons disarmed, if you feel the precaution is needed you may keep a few weapons online. The commanding officer of this ship, The Murdering Toddy, would like to welcome your captain to dinner in his private dining hall.

Isoke finally came to a conclusion that he had been risking too much know. According to the sensor screen on the massive terminal in the center of the large, gloomy, dark room, the squadron of destroyers had arrived. He idemitily ordered the communcations officer to tell the new ships to take up formation with his patrol and he called for the Colonel of the Space Corp. troops on his ship to come up to the C.I.C. By the time the destoryers began moving the Colonel had arrived.

"Sir, you called." A dog (literally) of the Space Corp. Old scars on the beastly male show past acts of loyalty to The Dynasties. A great warrior and an even better leader.

"Colonel, I want Space Corp. soldiers to be deployed in every part of the ship and a squad at the hanger. Tell them to treat our guest with respect, but to keep an eye on them. Clear?" Isoke eyed the dog. While the doggy Mu Cepheians made up most of the poulation of Mu Cephei most were quite small, but the Colonel. By what ever force was out here the dog is an opessing figure. It still casue great wonder in the commander as to how the Colonel has been able to doge bullets. A figure of his manner would seem to be a magnet for fire.

"I understand, sir," Isoke nodded.

"Dismissed," the Colonel left and by the time the destroyers joined the fleet, every ship had Space Corp. soldiers deployed all over. A few Space Corp. interceptors were even deployed to make a shuttle didn't try to sneak through the fleet's defenses. All in hope that the Mu Cepheians would not be betrayed.

"Well then... Would you like to have something to eat? As the second in command of this ship I can assure you that I can take the commander's position here. Or do you wish to wait for the commander?"
"I believe your Commander promised steaks, so I would gratefully accept one as soon as they are ready," Inritus replied. "We may begin, but I understand if you do need to leave me for your station." He smiled warmly.

Contrary to the what the Lieutenant Commander might have thought, Rear Admiral Inritus did not read his mind. At least, not in the way he supposed. True, if he wished, Inritus could communicate with the Mu Cephein telepathically, but it did not extend to mind reading. No, Inritus was a military man, er, kitsune, and the indecision and nervousness was plain to him on the snout of the fox. The Xiscapian knew how Tokala might be torn, and sought to ease his mind a bit. Anything to help the slightly strained relations, now that these new contacts had approached.

OOC:
I don't really have any experience with the ESUS, and the interaction between Trailers and myself is minimal at best. Chances are the kitsune wouldn't have any information on your nation.

OOC:
Don't feel bad about the character mix-up, by the way - I frequently have to refer to my old posts or notes to make sure I keep details straight.


IC:

"So it was a dust cloud?" Easter brooded, their little 'council' attending to fleet business while they waited for a reply from the natives, "Fuck! And the gravitics?"

"Last patch screwed VLA sector mapping interpolation," Hydra answered, "There's a warning on the guy's site, but it only went up a few minutes ago-"

"...lot of help that does us..."

"He also says he'll have a fix up inside a day, so it's probably not worth switching. Really my fault for updating right away - shit happens." the firecat shrugged.

"Right." the lapine sighed, "We'll set up a parallel system then, in case this happens again. Find a good developer and contact Jarvis is you need any hardware - I'll foot the bill, of course."

"I'll try not to rob ya blind," Hydra chuckled, trying to lighten the mood, then laughed-



Mapping and survey expedition fleet, please be advised that newly
met species are not allowed to map out Mu Cepheian space. If you
wish to open relations then move your fleet closer. While we ask
that you keep weapons disarmed, if you feel the precaution is
needed you may keep a few weapons online. The commanding officer
of this ship, The Murdering Toddy, would like to welcome your
captain to dinner in his private dining hall.



"I don't think he appreciates the how much you can see from a dozen lightyears away," the red panda grinned, "'specially with a sweet VLA setup like ours."


"Few do, to be fair," Notevil added, "Not that I think he'd really care. Nor would I suggest getting too close - you know how first contact sitch's are."


Sighing, the rabbit leaned back, then grinned, leveling her gaze at the wolf.


"Crap... I just volunteered, didn't I?"


----





This is Captain Notevil of the KCS Atomic Rocket,
fleet Executive Officer. It's our experience that staying
well out of weapons range tends to dramatically reduce
the inherent hazards of first contact, so if you don't
mind, we'll be keeping the range open.

If that's acceptable, I'll be right over.

Additionally, I'd question the wisdom of insulting your
commanding officer over an open channel, but I suppose
that's your business.


Hopefully, whoever their commanding officer was would be fluent enough in the subtleties of English to catch the joke.

*pokes*

OOC: Where are you, Mu Cephei?

OOC: Where are you, Mu Cephei?

OOC:
Well, looks like he logged into NS a week ago, but other than that, he's a month gone, vanished - no posts, no NS issues addressed, nothing.

Was kinda hoping you had him on IM or something?

OOC: No, sorry, I've had no contact with him. He logs onto his nation regularly enough, but, so far as I can tell, he hasn't touched the forums pretty much since the his last post. You think one of us should TG him?

OOC: No, sorry, I've had no contact with him. He logs onto his nation regularly enough, but, so far as I can tell, he hasn't touched the forums pretty much since the his last post. You think one of us should TG him?

OOC:
Couldn't hurt if you did.

OOC: Alright, I TGed him, now I'll wait for a reply. If he replies I'll send whatever he says along to you via TG, so be on the look out for a TG from me. Hopefully he will have some kind of answer.

OOC: Apologies for disappearing. Real life got in the way (as usual), but I have returned and thanks to a TG sent to me by Xiscapia I have been reminded of this thread. Enough of my poor excuses (or lack of). Onto to the (extremely) long awaited response! Once again, I am sorry for my lateness.


"I believe your Commander promised steaks, so I would gratefully accept one as soon as they are ready," Inritus replied. "We may begin, but I understand if you do need to leave me for your station." He smiled warmly.


Tokala returned the smile and bowed his head so that it was equal to the level of the Xiscapian, "of course. While I cannot eat until my leader returns, I believe it is best we began. Bring in food for our guest!" the fox yelled out. Moments later a Mu Cepheian pushing a cart walked into the room from a door that dilated, revealing a private kitchen.

The Mu Cepheian opened a pair of side doors to reveal a single plate with freshly cooked food on it. Moments later a plate was revealed with a steak on it, a side dish of spinach, and another side dish of a Mu Cepheian delicacy. Tokala was told not to shove Mu Cephei's culture down the guest's throat, so as to avoid culture shock. He was allowed to throw in a few things there and there. Like a simple side dish that looked like dried meat and seemed very similar to jerky.

Tokala sat down as the Mu Cephei placed the plate in front of Admiral Inritus. Tokala did his best to put on a friendly demeanor and expression, "so! What do you wish to talk about? If you would like I can have some data of Mu Cephei be delivered to you in exchange for something similar or we can wait for you to finish your meal. Which ever you prefer first," Tokala attempted a smile.






This is Captain Notevil of the KCS Atomic Rocket,
fleet Executive Officer. It's our experience that staying
well out of weapons range tends to dramatically reduce
the inherent hazards of first contact, so if you don't
mind, we'll be keeping the range open.

If that's acceptable, I'll be right over.

Additionally, I'd question the wisdom of insulting your
commanding officer over an open channel, but I suppose
that's your business.



Isoke flinched.

Snickering the communcations officer spoke, "sir?"

Another flinch, "Yes?"

"I think you just got insulted by an alien life form in a way that you would be able to understand. Sir, do you know what this means?"

"No," Commander Isoke once again flinched once again. In Mu Cephei culture you never insulted the Alpha Leader, but there were several occasions where insults were allowed, "I do not what this means... Get back to work!" Isoke flinched one last time.

"Sir, with all do respect. While the alien's joke was quite bad, looking at the situation we're in and the distance this was done..." Isoke turned to the officer.

"Your point?!"

"I believe you just got owned... Sir," there was some laughter, chuckles, snickers, and a giggle as Isoke looked towards the ground in shame. Really, who can they just got insulted from more then 80 something lightseconds away, from an alien no doubt, and not even in a language that neither of the offending parties could call their own. Bad joke or not Isoke was not pleased.

"Two can play at that game. If only we were face to face. Then I would joke that bastard across the universe with far better jokes!" Isoke coughed to clear his throat, "send a response."

We wait for your arrival. Please don't mind the scans when you make your trip and when you land. We can't risk you bringing a bomb on board. Thanks for understanding. Also, Commander Isoke sends his regrets that our two fleets could not meet face to face.



Nice one...

The communications officer sighed wondering why she thought that joke was funny. Maybe because she, or the rest of the crew for that matter, hadn't heard a joke since they left their docking station for patrol. Or maybe it was because of the circumstance of the joke itself. Whatever, the officer sighed again wondering how she was to spread Isoke's new nickname, Murdering Toddy, to the rest of the Mu Cepheian empire.

OOC: Hooray! He's back! :D
IC:
Rear Admiral Inritus picked up a fork and knife and began to dig into the steak, cutting it into neat, precise portions before spearing one and eating it, chewing for what seemed an unusually long time, eyes closed in pleasure before swallowing. "It tastes so good, you see," he explained, "after years of being fed nutrient paste though tubes something with a little more flavor and texture is godly." Of course, by this point Inritus had gone without proper food for so long that rotting meat between two stale, mold encrusted pieces of bread would have been like five-star cuisine. He didn't so much as touch the spinach. Unknown to the Mu Cepheians, Xiscapians could not digest plant matter, only meat, some dairy, and others.
"So! What do you wish to talk about? If you would like I can have some data of Mu Cephei be delivered to you in exchange for something similar or we can wait for you to finish your meal. Which ever you prefer first."
"I know you are not a historian or sociologist," said Inritus, gulping down his next slice of steak, "but could you tell me a little of Mu Cephei culture, customs and history? We can exchange hard data later, but for now the opportunity to speak with a living, breathing member of a different species by far surpasses it. Of course, I will share information about us with you or your General." He licked his lips, watching the anthropomorphic red fox expectantly.

"It tastes so good, you see," he explained, "after years of being fed nutrient paste though tubes something with a little more flavor and texture is godly."

"I am very pleased that you enjoy the food," the Mu Cepheian cook pulled the cart back into the kitchen - doors closing behind him. Tokala waited intently as Inritus ate his food wondering what data exactly was worthless to the point that these Xiscapians could not use it against him and his race. Tokala had a good feeling about these Xiscapians and he assumed that Isoke felt the same, but the danger of a war breaking out was still there. Too many first contacts had gone wrong due to information overload or culture shock. Then there's also the classical, but still dangerous, misunderstanding.

"I know you are not a historian or sociologist," said Inritus, gulping down his next slice of steak, "but could you tell me a little of Mu Cephei culture, customs and history? We can exchange hard data later, but for now the opportunity to speak with a living, breathing member of a different species by far surpasses it. Of course, I will share information about us with you or your General." He licked his lips, watching the anthropomorphic red fox expectantly.

Tokala snapped to attention as Inritus spoke. He listened, but also planned out his words carefully. Finally coming to a decision as to what he would speak of Tokala spoke.

"Mu Cephei culture centers around three things. The art of a warrior, the art of nature and the art of understanding nature. While Mu Cepheians will always pick peace if they could we are not a race that would hesitate to kill to defend ourselves or our interest. This is why we usually end up going to war or entering a conflict with many factions. Rear Admiral Inritues, be very proud of yourself and everyone who serves under you. For you Xiscapians, are the first ones to make first contact with us without exchanging fire due to a misunderstanding. Actually, you are the very first - please excuse me, but due to a lack of better terms - alien to ever step foot unto a Mu Cepheian vessel." Tokala smiled hoping the flattery would help ease the fact that he just told an alien life form that war was far, no uncommon thing to Mu Cephei. In fact, most Mu Cepheians are more afraid of war when there is a lasting peace then when there is a lasting war.

"While Mu Cepheians are intelligent life we have retained many of our natural instincts thus we are very connected to nature. We are very protective of our environment and many Mu Cepheians are raised out in the wild then in populated areas. This act of respect towards nature has caused us to suffer in terms of technology, we have been rewarded many times with a vast abundance of natural resources and we Mu Cepheians are able to overpopulated our home world without harming the planet's balance," Tokala hoped these guys liked nature as much as he did for it would make this first contact more easier. They needed more then just similar ears and tails to make friends.

"Finally, we have science. In truth Mu Cepheians prefer math and engineering as well as science, but it is easier to just say science. There is no religion in Mu Cephei and if there is it belongs to a temporary guest. The reason for this is not really known, but all Mu Cepheians are born and raised around the idea of asking questions. When we are older we are taught how to answer our questions with logic and evidence. Because of this way of thinking technology does advance somewhat even with our love affair with nature pressing against it," Tokala took a deep breath hoping he didn't bore his guest with all of his talk of Mu Cepheian culture.

"Is there anything else you wish to ask about?"

Inritus had listened patiently and continued to eat as Tokala spoke, but as the Mu Cephein went on he laid down his fork and propped his head up with his hand on his chin, listening intently now, fox ears perked. The parallels were...eerie, truly. On the subjects of warfare and nature, the Xiscapians and Mu Cephei beliefs, policies and situations were exactly identical. He was sure if he compared Xiscapia and whatever Mu Cephei's homeworld was, they would both be lush and green, with only a few large population centers but countless nomadic villages and small townships scattered throughout the wilderness.
Science, however, was different. While it was true the Xiscapians considered themselves advanced, they held the written word and history and origins more sacred than anything that could be achieved in a laboratory. Word defined self, as surely as a name defined an object. And they did have a religion, but Inritus was hesitant to share that now. For an isolated culture to have developed without a religion either represented a lack of interest from the gods or an unusual clear-headiness when concerning all the trials and tribulations of life.
"Is there anything else you wish to ask about?"
"How are you ruled?" asked Inritus. "What is your system of government?"
Anyone who had a military had to have some kind of government. It stood to reason, organization in one place meant organization elsewhere.

OOC: Xiscapia, thanks to you now I have something to put into my factbook. Yeah! Thanks.


"How are you ruled?" asked Inritus. "What is your system of government?"
Anyone who had a military had to have some kind of government. It stood to reason, organization in one place meant organization elsewhere.

Shit, Tokala cursed to himself. He should had known something like that was going to pop up. Culture is one thing, but how your species is run is an entirely different matter. Tokala realized that by telling these Xiscapians about his system of government they would have an advantage when it came to killing of government heads if a war was to ever arrive. Hell, he couldn't even say where the planet of these aliens were for sure yet they knew where his home world is located! Tokala wondered if these Xiscapians knew how much of an advantge they had over them, but that did not matter. After several seconds of studying the Admiral's reaction to his lesson of sorts Tokala wondered to himself if their two speices could become close allies.

All of Tokala's thoughts had been negative up to this point. General Isoke seemed to trust these guys from the start. Was it dumb luck that the General decided to meet these Xiscapians face-to-face or was there another reason behind his, oh-so-lucky-that-this-very-risky-meeting-could-have-resulted-in-war-but-didn't, decision.

"We'll, I'll give you the run down of how Mu Cephei is run. First, some history. Long ago Mu Cephei was like most intelligent species when they had just developed technology. You could I guess call it what the humans call it, our 'medieval' time period. There were eight great and powerful countries. These countries had never ever made contact before, but a meteor impact changed that. It is said that the heads of each of these countries saw the flash from the impact and assembled their armies to check out the crash site. All eight armies met at the exact same time and were thrown into a high state of tension." Tokala paused to recall the rest of the history lesson that he himself had not heard since his youth.

"Finally the eight leaders met and talked as their scientist, they were called mages back then, checked out the meteor. When the scientist came to the conclusion the meteor came from the heavens all eight armies moved in to get the meteor for themselves for study. This resulted in a massive battle between the armies of the eight countries. When the battle was over only the leaders were left. They decided to end the battle then and there they also decided to destroy the rock that had caused all of the bloodshed. When all was said and done the eight countries set up trade. Over the years the countries spread until they shared a border and culture diffusion took place. Over time the eight countries turned into The Eight Great Dynasties." Tokala stood up from his seat.

"With all do respect, I shall show you my markings," Tokala pulled down his officer's jacket zipper and took it off. With his arms fully exposed it was now more evident as to how much fur covered his body. Tokala lifted up his undershirt to expose his chest where a burnt mark stayed. The mark was very obviously burned onto the skin and it seemed without struggle. The mark was also stretched by the skin so it was probably put there when Tokala was younger. The mark was black against his orange fur thus the mark could easily be read. A crest of sorts, the outside burn marks were of a large eye with a dilated eye in the center which was completely burned black. An outline of a hawk lay to the left of the pupil and a fox's head laid to the right.

"The eye represents my dynasty, The Dynasty of Sight. The fox's head represents my clan, the Alpha Clan of my Dynasty. The hawk represents my pack, The Soaring Hawks," Tokala fixed his undershirt and put his jacket back on.

"Now, with all of that background here is the answer to your question. The Alpha Branch is made up of the Emperor who is picked by the heads of the eight dynasties and voted in by the people of my home world. He or she can then selects a council to advise him or her on matters of law. It is the duty of The Alpha Branch to enforce the laws onto the people. The Beta Branch is made is divided into two separate senates. One of the poor and one of the rich. They make the laws and are voted in by the people. They are separated to ensure a balance of power and interest between rich or poor. Finally we have the most powerful organization in our government," Tokala took a few breaths before he spoke.

"Simply put, nothing cannot happen without the approval of The Dynasty Court which is made up of the leaders of The Eight Great Dynasties. They say what is right, they say what is wrong, and it is they that say what must be done. Their are also the most trusted for they are not voted in so there is no check of power. You can call it a dictatorship if you want, but we Mu Cepheians see it as our last line of defense against power hungry individuals. The Eight Great Dynasties have taken great care of Mu Cephei ever since they been around," Tokala sat down and smiled.

"Any more questions? To tell you the truth I wish to hear more about your culture and your way of life. If that is okay?" Tokala asked.

OOC:
I hate jolt - I just spent six hours trying to load this page. >.<

Not sure how much your sensors could see, so use your own discretion; I provided a good bit of detail on Notevil's car.


IC:

Enroute.


An atmospheric field held the air Notevil stepped into as he left the Diner, striding across the parking lot marked upon KCS Easter Bunny's dorsal hull, his car's gull-wing doors opening with a thought to admit the lupine.

Seated and sealed, the cherry-red craft departed first on spherical tires, these retracting into their magnetic bearings as she went over the side, and the reactionless IDD drive node in each corner of the ten meter long craft took over, entering it's STC-assigned flight corridor and propelling it free of the fleet.

It was then that something perhaps disturbing took place, as the crimson sports car brought up it's inertialess SLDS drive field, craft quickly 'accelerating' to a non-real, effective speed just under half the speed on light, as staggered uncertainty-displacement generators spooled up.

It would take scarcely three minutes to cross much of the intervening 27 million kilometers, befor simply... stopping, instantly, dead station-keeping two light-seconds off the native fleet, and requesting an approach corridor.

At this range, other details became apparent; the cherry-red hull composed on solid silver, molecular bonds augmented, somehow, by nuclear ones, the colour not painted, but laser-etched, and backed by a thin neutronium-laminate/subatomic particle lattice wafer. It's 'navigational' shield operating at a fraction of it's potential strength, and rather exotically based on a standing waveform of quantum uncertainty, effecting a barrier of infinite mass- and energy-density, while remaining quite finite in both, and paradoxically transparent to optics and most sensors. It's power source, a quad-cell pulsed singularity hawking reactor - direct matter-energy conversion, fueled by nuetronium superfluid. Drone-launchers, missile bays, heavy particle beams and point-lasers, all of exotic design, and seemingly inert. It's drive systems, so unique it would be easy enough to not even find the sports car's drive systems, seated amongst all the additional widgets and technologies.

Ah, yes, and the "ARR-VEE" vanity license plate, with a rather wolfish looking critter seated at the drivers' console behind polarising gold-tented windows, which are actually hull plates; surface refraction and optical tricks creating an illusion of transparency without the vulnerability.

Enroute.



OOC: Yeah, I had a hard time getting on yesterday as well. Mu Cephei has two set of sensors. Sensors, which are passive, and scanners, which are active. They only detect energy, but if you get close enough one of the guns on the ship might be able to lock-on to you and use it's gun camera to get a visual, but I doubt your guy would like that... Also, nice car.

IC:
"Wow, that's a very big energy source coming from the foreign fleet. It's moving fast, I'd say about half the speed of light," the sensors officer said, "there seems to be nothing onboard that poses a threat to our patrol, but there is most likely ship based weapons on board." Isoke nodded.

"Communications officer said the message," Isoke started walking back towards the hanger leaving the communications officer, who held the third highest rank in the CIC, in charge.

The shields have been turn off. Follow the lights. Please be advised that the landing sequence will be automated once you enter the hanger.


"Hey," the communications officer spoke getting everyone attention, "did anyone notice the CO coming back from the hanger?" Everyone shook their heads, "okay then..."

Like before a lot of lights on the outside of the ship turned off leaving only the ones that led to a hanger- not the one the Xiscpians were in of course. Once the car like shuttle entered the hanger magnets would take over, moving the car near the hanger doors and attaching the vehicle to the hanger floor. A shield would rap itself around the shuttle and make a breathable path towards the hanger doors making it possible to walk to the interior of the ship without proper gear. Once the Mu Cepheian's guest arrived the hanger doors would open, revealing Isoke, two Elite Heavy Infantrymen and a squad of Infantry. When the Kanuckistanian (?) walked through the hanger doors Isoke spoke.

"Greetings and welcome to the Murdering Toddy. I am the commanding officer of this ship and of this fleet, my rank and name is General Isoke. Do you wish to head to my private dining room now?" Isoke smiled warmly at his guest.

OOC: Yeah, I had a massive post set up and Jolt went down and took the entire f$#%ing post with it! Seems to have been rather spotty, as of late.
IC:

Inritus had been suspicious before, but now he knew without a doubt, that this was too much to be a coincidence. First the policies on nature and warfare, and now the rock falling from the sky and the markings on Tokala’s stomach…the Xiscapians and Mu Cephei were related. Not just biologically, but somehow socially at some point in time. Perhaps offshoots of each other at some point. There was no other possible explanation. The meteor and the battle over it explained the lack of religion, anyway. If they believed the rock had come from the gods, and the battle had occurred over it, they would be inclined to shun and avoid anything supernatural or otherwise celestial.
"Any more questions? To tell you the truth I wish to hear more about your culture and your way of life. If that is okay?"
“No, it’s fine,” Inritus waved his hand airily. “What I am going to tell you you’ll have to take it as it is. Everything I say will be the truth of our culture: What you think of it after I say is yours.” He settled with his chin resting in the palm on his hand, elbows on the table. “Our policies on warfare and the environment are exactly identical to yours. Our government, however, is rather different.” He smiled.

“All of Xiscapia's political leaders are elected. Each has a certain term in office, except the Emperor or Empress. Once they are sworn in, they are there until one of three things happen: They die, they resign voluntarily, or, if they have become corrupt or the people are dissatisfied, they are impeached and removed from office. Much time, money and consideration goes into choosing the next ruler, who is voted on by everybody who is a Xiscapian citizen. In the Palace there is an army of aides and politicians working under the Emperor to keep Xiscapian running. In times of war the Emperor or Empress has a say in the affairs, but the majority of the war is left to the Generals and Admirals. The ruler may, if they chose so, to remove a military commander from their post, but this is only done under extreme cases and requires much consideration by all parties involved. Under the Emperor each system is ruler by system governors. Under them are the local mayors of the cities or towns. Our current Emperor is Lord Foxfire Rose, mated with Empress Jade Rose, and this is his fifteenth year in office. We left during his ninth year, and in his eighth year he ended a millennial-long war between us and an old foe. Since then I am told we have fought and won three further wars, and effectively annihilated our enemies.” Inritus allowed a touch of pride to enter his voice. “Xiscapia does not start wars, but she does finish them.”

On Xiscapia there is a religion called Qonn. Qonn tells of enlightenment though meditation. Every Xiscapian is called on by their religion to try and achieve enlightenment, which opens the mind to Qonn. Qonn is the mind on a spiritual level, creating peace and harmony with all things. It is the religions ultimate goal to achieve this, though precious few ever have. The temples and churches of Qonn are scattered throughout the world, teaching and enhancing. The Church in general tries to help all achieve balance and harmony in the Force. Xiscapian Priests of the Order of Qonn and the Church of Qonn are holy beings. They are all Force-sensitive, and the most Force-sensitive Xiscapians are affiliated with the Church in some way. While not a politically outstanding force, the Church has, does, and will always greatly influence the masses. Priests are peaceful and passive, using their abilities for good only, barring an attack on the Church itself. If the life of a Priest, lives of others or the Church is involved they will use their power, but this is rare. Priests in general wear orange robes, while the High Priest (head of each Church) wears white robes and the Mog-Ur (Holy Person of the entire religion) wears black. Churches are scattered throughout Xiscapia, and are often large structures made of black, gray, or white stone. It is said is the Sacred Texts that the first Xiscapian male, Kartosh, received enlightenment while under a waterfall hidden deep in the jungles of Forworn. This granted him the power of the Force. The Texts say that when this happened the first Xiscapian female, Jade, found Kartosh under that waterfall. Their decedents are the Xiscapians.”

Inritus looked at Tokala steadily. “Perhaps it is time to show you what the Force is. Do not be alarmed: It will not harm you.” He lifted his right hand and closed his eyes, concentrating. Slowly, shaking slightly, Inritus’s fork lifted about six inches from his plate, rotating slowly, before gently settling back down. That is the Force, came a voice in Tokala's head. And so is this. “Communicating telepathically and using telekinetic are the only things I can do,” explained Inritus. “I am more gifted in the Force than most Xiscapians, but I am very weak when compared to others on my level and beyond.”

Inritus took his black katana in both hands from his hip and placed it on the table, drawing the sword with a silken sound, slowly so as not to alarm the Mu Cephein. “The katana sword is a vital part of every Xiscapian. We believe is symbolically contains part of your soul. You see, when a Xiscapian turns of age at twenty-one, on their birthday they are given a katana, forged and crafted by their entire family. This they carry with them always, and it if is ever lost, broken or stolen they must either recover their original or forge a new one as fast as possible. You must never try to take a katana from a kitsune, especially a soldier, for they will do much to retrieve it, and most warriors would not think twice about killing someone who stole their sword.”

Inritus pointed to the hilt, where teal binding covered the smooth black metal. “My binding it teal, which indicates that I am a level Two Force user. Most Xiscapians are level One, which is a blood red hilt binding, meaning they can sustain and cultivate life in a small way. Nothing more. Level Two was what you saw, a limited ability beyond that of normal. The Third level is dark green, true power, the ability to kill and crush and destroy, but also the ability to heal and repair and make. Generally, only priests and some soldiers have this level. I’m sure there are other, higher levels, but those are the only three I know.”

He gestured to the sheath lying beside the sword. “My scabbard is black. This means, in the Navy, that I hold a rank between Captain and Admiral. White would indicate an Executive Officer, Bridge Officer or technician. Red is a pilot, and green is Marine or Spacer. There are other colors for different ranks in separate branches of the military, and in a social context the color of the sheath can mean many things, but what I said is for the Navy.”

Finally he ran a finger along the shining blade, touching two little engraved symbols near the hilt. “This is the symbol of my clan, the fukai. We do not use our clan names with our normal ones: You would not call me “Inritus Fukai.” This is not acceptable. Your clan says only who your ancestors are, nothing more. We are not bound by second, third or otherwise last names. Only the Emperor and Empress have them.”


“At one time we, the Xiscapians, were human. At the time of this story we still resided on Old Xiscapia, many thousands of years ago, and the technology we are so proud of today was then only about that of Medieval. This was the time of War between the various kingdoms of Old Xiscapia, and the only unification was under the Council of Elders, who strived for peace between all people. One dark day a scout from the Kingdom of Mysan, whose ruler is a direct ancestor to Empress Jade's, spotted a curious thing.

It was like the moon, but smaller, and had landed in a field not far from his village. But when he looked to the sky, he saw the moon was still there. And this moon seemed too smooth, not like the craggy, pockmarked surface they knew. He went to touch it, but a mysterious force repelled him, throwing him back into the forest. Terrified, the scout went back and told the entire village, but by the time he had roused up some warriors to investigate, demons came from the moon. They were creatures from the depths of the Forgotten Realms, spitting fire and slaughtering all they came upon.

The village was torched and all those who tried to stop them were killed, and the rest of the village fled to the security of the forest. The demons hunted them, but they kept well hidden and picked off the ones who went alone. Night fell and it turned the demons were not so brave to stay in the same forest at night as those who hunted them. They returned to their moon. The villagers cracked open the outer shell of one of the demons they had killed, and found inside that it was more like a insect than anything else, all soft meat and shriveled parts. They cooked and ate it, and found that it was good.

Still, the Council of Elders called a meeting with all the chiefs and kings of the various tribes and kingdoms of Old Xiscapia. They prayed to Qonn, who was then and always will be our god. It was agreed that we could not engage the demons in open combat, but when one got close they were easily dispatched. So, using their magic granted by Qonn, in a few short days the Elders had assembled an army from all the countries, and under the cover of darkness, they infiltrated the moon.

Inside were wonders that they had never seen the like, but the warriors had no time to explore. They sought out all the demons and killed every last one while they slept. The moon was large, and before long the halls of the moon were awash with blood. In the end this unified army came out victorious, and all over Old Xiscapia there was much rejoicing. The Council of Elders called another meeting, and Qonn told them the moon and its demons had come from the stars, and that more would follow. This worried the Elders and all the leaders, and they asked what they should do. Qonn told them to learn the ways of the moon.

So they did. It was recognized that only though unification, combining all the talents and culture of Old Xiscapia, could they hope to maximize their spoils to their full potential. From this moon they made fire weapons of their own, their made shells to protect them, but they never forgot the virtues of being unarmored, or the elegance with which a sword kills that a gun cannot match. With these they made their first star craft, forging weapons as a united Republic under the Elders and leaders.

From there they were forced to fend off many attacks from demons, and each time they acquired new technology and added it to their existing ships, weapons and equipment. However, it was quickly found that the star craft they made could not breach high orbit, as doing so would kill the crew instantly, making them planet-bound. So they worked and they tinkered and they changed, but nothing worked.

Qonn said unto them that he would make them different, change them for the better. So all of those on Old Xiscapia became kitsune, and with the change we were able to travel the stars. We had not gone far before we were told we had to leave Old Xiscapia, and even the grandchildren of our grandchildren would not live to see it again. Some kitsune live for over three centuries, so this was a long time. With our technology we built vessels to carry all of our people and technology with us, to find a new home.

Just as the ships were setting out, though, a storm of the stars scattered them like leafs on a wind, and they were spread throughout the galaxy. Three thousand years of searching it took to find Xiscapia, the right one. No other planet would do, although we have information that points that some kitsune landed on other planets. Some were killed by the natives; some established worldwide and even system-wide Empires, some, we believe, still had decedents living on today. Only a few years ago did we discover Old Xiscapia, and it was revealed to us that the storm of the stars was actually a massive invasion fleet coming to destroy Old Xiscapia, and their Warp exit into real space tossed away the kitsune ships entirely be accident. They were men of Chaos, come to make clothing of our hides. We have found that they landed on Old Xiscapia to search for kitsune to kill, and were in turn killed and destroyed by a number of traps they sprung while they searched." Inritus smiled darkly. “We persevere, always.”

Steepling his hands before him, Inritus studied Tokala’s expression. “You may have noticed similarities between Xiscapia and Mu Cephei on many levels. The story of the rock or moon falling from the sky, our policies on warfare and the environment, the distinct way of marking the clan, order and social rankings...I cannot believe this is an accident. Somehow, our races must have met, or perhaps been culturally entwined, in the past.”

Notevil, however, would not be landing - which is just as well, as the car's hull was not only non-magnetic, but the superconductive layer in it's laminate-backing would have reflected the magnetic field.


After closing the remaining six hundred kilo-kay, which took another minute in and of itself, the car parked itself a hundred or so meters from the hangar, not quite in front so as to not obstruct the path, and turning abreast.

Then, to the surprise of everyone watching, the driver's side gull wing door opened, directly into space, and Captain Notevil, a small black baton in hand, stepped out through the air shield, apparently onto another, likewise-invisible force-field floor, internal gravity extended to hold his feet down.

Revealed to any optic that cared to traverse was a two meter tall, digitigrade frame, somewhat less hunamoid than most, adorned with predominantly brown fur, amber eyes, a black t-shirt and camo-patterned pants, along with slimline silver pauldrons anchoring and mostly covered by a black cape with red silk liner, a pair of thermoptic-refracting gauntlets that rendered his firearms seemingly transparent, and a pair of creatively designed digitigrade all-purpose boots. The fabrics in all cases of reactive-protective armour-grade.

A belt held holster and scabbard for a large IDD slugthrower/laser pistol, powered by a compact and expensive solid-state conversion plant, with the subatomic-edged SAPL wafer-blade in the European hand-and-a-half sword style - both weapons as elegantly decorative as they were functional, the two concealed boot-knives likewise so.

He was also rather significantly augmented, biologically and technologically, but given he's standing in hard vacuum with neither a spacesuit nor discomfort, that's somewhat implied.



Now, raising the baton above his head, it extends to thrice it's length, befor unfolding into an... umbrella? The tines projecting a unified inertial drive field that carries him toward the hangar, gull wing closing as he departs on his Mary Poppins impression, on final approach.



OOC:
I'll stop here, as I suspect my eccentric entrance may... alter, your characters' reactions.

:D


Also, as far as post-loss goes, I usually type things up in notepad, then copy-paste. If not, I'll almost always atleast drag-select and 'copy' it, so I can paste it out if things FUBAR.

OOC: Damn... That must've suck big time.


“No, it’s fine,” Inritus waved his hand airily. “What I am going to tell you you’ll have to take it as it is. Everything I say will be the truth of our culture: What you think of it after I say is yours.” He settled with his chin resting in the palm on his hand, elbows on the table. “Our policies on warfare and the environment are exactly identical to yours. Our government, however, is rather different.” He smiled.

IC:
Tokala nodded and perked up his ears waiting to listen to Inritus' explanation on Xiscapia's culture and other things of importance. Tokala spoke, "is that so you say? Well then what a coincidence that our cultures are similar!"

“All of Xiscapia's political leaders are elected. Each has a certain term in office, except the Emperor or Empress. Once they are sworn in, they are there until one of three things happen: They die, they resign voluntarily, or, if they have become corrupt or the people are dissatisfied, they are impeached and removed from office. Much time, money and consideration goes into choosing the next ruler, who is voted on by everybody who is a Xiscapian citizen. In the Palace there is an army of aides and politicians working under the Emperor to keep Xiscapian running. In times of war the Emperor or Empress has a say in the affairs, but the majority of the war is left to the Generals and Admirals. The ruler may, if they chose so, to remove a military commander from their post, but this is only done under extreme cases and requires much consideration by all parties involved. Under the Emperor each system is ruler by system governors. Under them are the local mayors of the cities or towns. Our current Emperor is Lord Foxfire Rose, mated with Empress Jade Rose, and this is his fifteenth year in office. We left during his ninth year, and in his eighth year he ended a millennial-long war between us and an old foe. Since then I am told we have fought and won three further wars, and effectively annihilated our enemies.” Inritus allowed a touch of pride to enter his voice. “Xiscapia does not start wars, but she does finish them.”

"So your society is closer to a complete democracy then us? I notice that once you go to war your military seems to gain much influence and power. Very good on the wars. It is always nice to hear news of a successful victory may it be the entire war or just a minor battle," Tokala smiled as the Admiral spoke.


On Xiscapia there is a religion called Qonn. Qonn tells of enlightenment though meditation. Every Xiscapian is called on by their religion to try and achieve enlightenment, which opens the mind to Qonn. Qonn is the mind on a spiritual level, creating peace and harmony with all things. It is the religions ultimate goal to achieve this, though precious few ever have. The temples and churches of Qonn are scattered throughout the world, teaching and enhancing. The Church in general tries to help all achieve balance and harmony in the Force. Xiscapian Priests of the Order of Qonn and the Church of Qonn are holy beings. They are all Force-sensitive, and the most Force-sensitive Xiscapians are affiliated with the Church in some way. While not a politically outstanding force, the Church has, does, and will always greatly influence the masses. Priests are peaceful and passive, using their abilities for good only, barring an attack on the Church itself. If the life of a Priest, lives of others or the Church is involved they will use their power, but this is rare. Priests in general wear orange robes, while the High Priest (head of each Church) wears white robes and the Mog-Ur (Holy Person of the entire religion) wears black. Churches are scattered throughout Xiscapia, and are often large structures made of black, gray, or white stone. It is said is the Sacred Texts that the first Xiscapian male, Kartosh, received enlightenment while under a waterfall hidden deep in the jungles of Forworn. This granted him the power of the Force. The Texts say that when this happened the first Xiscapian female, Jade, found Kartosh under that waterfall. Their decedents are the Xiscapians.”

"So Xiscapia is very religious or does religion play a major part in private society only? Very well, it is not place to inquire into such matters, but I must say that this Qonn religion does strike a interest in me. Maybe when we trade raw data you can include some more information on Qonn?" Tokala smirked, he always did take an interest in culture studies, plus this Force sounded very similar. There were tales of Mu Cepheians being able to manipulate certain elements of nature and that these Mu Cepheians referred to it as being similar to The Force of humans, but different. Maybe these Xiscapians have something similar as well, Tokala thought.


Inritus looked at Tokala steadily. “Perhaps it is time to show you what the Force is. Do not be alarmed: It will not harm you.” He lifted his right hand and closed his eyes, concentrating. Slowly, shaking slightly, Inritus’s fork lifted about six inches from his plate, rotating slowly, before gently settling back down. That is the Force, came a voice in Tokala's head. And so is this. “Communicating telepathically and using telekinetic are the only things I can do,” explained Inritus. “I am more gifted in the Force than most Xiscapians, but I am very weak when compared to others on my level and beyond.”

Yup, it was this Force is very similar to what those few Mu Cepheians were capable of. The voice in his head however wasn't very pleasing and was very new to him. The lifting of the fork was also new. Too bad he couldn't share info about their version of this Force, it was top level classified. He only knew about it because Isoke had an open mouth when drunk.

“The katana sword is a vital part of every Xiscapian. We believe is symbolically contains part of your soul. You see, when a Xiscapian turns of age at twenty-one, on their birthday they are given a katana, forged and crafted by their entire family. This they carry with them always, and it if is ever lost, broken or stolen they must either recover their original or forge a new one as fast as possible. You must never try to take a katana from a kitsune, especially a soldier, for they will do much to retrieve it, and most warriors would not think twice about killing someone who stole their sword.”

Inritus pointed to the hilt, where teal binding covered the smooth black metal. “My binding it teal, which indicates that I am a level Two Force user. Most Xiscapians are level One, which is a blood red hilt binding, meaning they can sustain and cultivate life in a small way. Nothing more. Level Two was what you saw, a limited ability beyond that of normal. The Third level is dark green, true power, the ability to kill and crush and destroy, but also the ability to heal and repair and make. Generally, only priests and some soldiers have this level. I’m sure there are other, higher levels, but those are the only three I know.”

He gestured to the sheath lying beside the sword. “My scabbard is black. This means, in the Navy, that I hold a rank between Captain and Admiral. White would indicate an Executive Officer, Bridge Officer or technician. Red is a pilot, and green is Marine or Spacer. There are other colors for different ranks in separate branches of the military, and in a social context the color of the sheath can mean many things, but what I said is for the Navy.”

Finally he ran a finger along the shining blade, touching two little engraved symbols near the hilt. “This is the symbol of my clan, the fukai. We do not use our clan names with our normal ones: You would not call me “Inritus Fukai.” This is not acceptable. Your clan says only who your ancestors are, nothing more. We are not bound by second, third or otherwise last names. Only the Emperor and Empress have them.”

"Interesting," Tokala scratched his chin, "your blade shows your place in society like the markings on my chest. I can see why you would be protective of such an object. I am also impressed by the quality of the blade. You said your family forged this for you? Most impressive, it is not common to find another species who cares so much for family matters. You can find similar activities on Mu Cephei as well which were founded to strengthen the bonds of a pack or clan."

“At one time we, the Xiscapians, were human. At the time of this story we still resided on Old Xiscapia, many thousands of years ago, and the technology we are so proud of today was then only about that of Medieval. This was the time of War between the various kingdoms of Old Xiscapia, and the only unification was under the Council of Elders, who strived for peace between all people. One dark day a scout from the Kingdom of Mysan, whose ruler is a direct ancestor to Empress Jade's, spotted a curious thing.

It was like the moon, but smaller, and had landed in a field not far from his village. But when he looked to the sky, he saw the moon was still there. And this moon seemed too smooth, not like the craggy, pockmarked surface they knew. He went to touch it, but a mysterious force repelled him, throwing him back into the forest. Terrified, the scout went back and told the entire village, but by the time he had roused up some warriors to investigate, demons came from the moon. They were creatures from the depths of the Forgotten Realms, spitting fire and slaughtering all they came upon.

The village was torched and all those who tried to stop them were killed, and the rest of the village fled to the security of the forest. The demons hunted them, but they kept well hidden and picked off the ones who went alone. Night fell and it turned the demons were not so brave to stay in the same forest at night as those who hunted them. They returned to their moon. The villagers cracked open the outer shell of one of the demons they had killed, and found inside that it was more like a insect than anything else, all soft meat and shriveled parts. They cooked and ate it, and found that it was good.

Still, the Council of Elders called a meeting with all the chiefs and kings of the various tribes and kingdoms of Old Xiscapia. They prayed to Qonn, who was then and always will be our god. It was agreed that we could not engage the demons in open combat, but when one got close they were easily dispatched. So, using their magic granted by Qonn, in a few short days the Elders had assembled an army from all the countries, and under the cover of darkness, they infiltrated the moon.

Inside were wonders that they had never seen the like, but the warriors had no time to explore. They sought out all the demons and killed every last one while they slept. The moon was large, and before long the halls of the moon were awash with blood. In the end this unified army came out victorious, and all over Old Xiscapia there was much rejoicing. The Council of Elders called another meeting, and Qonn told them the moon and its demons had come from the stars, and that more would follow. This worried the Elders and all the leaders, and they asked what they should do. Qonn told them to learn the ways of the moon.

So they did. It was recognized that only though unification, combining all the talents and culture of Old Xiscapia, could they hope to maximize their spoils to their full potential. From this moon they made fire weapons of their own, their made shells to protect them, but they never forgot the virtues of being unarmored, or the elegance with which a sword kills that a gun cannot match. With these they made their first star craft, forging weapons as a united Republic under the Elders and leaders.

From there they were forced to fend off many attacks from demons, and each time they acquired new technology and added it to their existing ships, weapons and equipment. However, it was quickly found that the star craft they made could not breach high orbit, as doing so would kill the crew instantly, making them planet-bound. So they worked and they tinkered and they changed, but nothing worked.

Qonn said unto them that he would make them different, change them for the better. So all of those on Old Xiscapia became kitsune, and with the change we were able to travel the stars. We had not gone far before we were told we had to leave Old Xiscapia, and even the grandchildren of our grandchildren would not live to see it again. Some kitsune live for over three centuries, so this was a long time. With our technology we built vessels to carry all of our people and technology with us, to find a new home.

Just as the ships were setting out, though, a storm of the stars scattered them like leafs on a wind, and they were spread throughout the galaxy. Three thousand years of searching it took to find Xiscapia, the right one. No other planet would do, although we have information that points that some kitsune landed on other planets. Some were killed by the natives; some established worldwide and even system-wide Empires, some, we believe, still had decedents living on today. Only a few years ago did we discover Old Xiscapia, and it was revealed to us that the storm of the stars was actually a massive invasion fleet coming to destroy Old Xiscapia, and their Warp exit into real space tossed away the kitsune ships entirely be accident. They were men of Chaos, come to make clothing of our hides. We have found that they landed on Old Xiscapia to search for kitsune to kill, and were in turn killed and destroyed by a number of traps they sprung while they searched." Inritus smiled darkly. “We persevere, always.”

"Wow! I have a new found respect for your people. To defeat an intelligent species with so low level technology. Most impressive," Tokala wondered how much lady luck loved these Xiscapians, "your history is very interesting. I have never heard of a species advancing in such a way. It must have been very difficult at first to colonize a planet knowing that there would be no other attempt at a different planet to act as a back-up."

Steepling his hands before him, Inritus studied Tokala’s expression. “You may have noticed similarities between Xiscapia and Mu Cephei on many levels. The story of the rock or moon falling from the sky, our policies on warfare and the environment, the distinct way of marking the clan, order and social rankings...I cannot believe this is an accident. Somehow, our races must have met, or perhaps been culturally entwined, in the past.”

"True," Tokala thought back to all of the similarities between the two species, "well. This is hard to explain really. I can't think of a reason why our two species are similar. Maybe some of the Xiscapians that got lost landed on our planet and influence our culture? Maybe the answer will be clearer when we exchange data," Tokala looked at the empty plate before Inritus, "do you wish for seconds?" The speakers in the room turned on with some static and a female voice, the communications officer, came on.

-Alien guest is now arriving. ETA towards being ship bound is five plus minutes. Security, stay alert. Rest of crew, stay as before. Over.

"I guess we will be joined shortly by General Isoke and a new guest soon," Tokala smiled nervously.

-SNIP-

"What... The... Hell..." Isoke peered through the opening of the large hanger doors wondering what the hell was going on. The Infantry squad aimed their weapons at the... Gliding? Alien. The Elites coverage on Isoke getting ready to protect him for this was new to everybody. Was it possible to even glide in space with an umbrella? Even with engines it made no sense.

"Umm... While it looks fun we best getting moving," Isoke spoke gesturing towards the alien to come down. Isoke kept gesturing wondering if the alien would lend him that umbrella in exchange for something...

"So your society is closer to a complete democracy then us? I notice that once you go to war your military seems to gain much influence and power."
"In wartime the military have more control because they know how to handle war," said Inritus simply. "If a fire was burning in your home, would you call the matchmaker or the firefighter?"
"So Xiscapia is very religious or does religion play a major part in private society only? Very well, it is not place to inquire into such matters, but I must say that this Qonn religion does strike a interest in me. Maybe when we trade raw data you can include some more information on Qonn?"
"Qonn does not require extensive worship except for the truly devoted. To the average citizen it has more practical uses, such as teaching control and refinement of the Force. It also plays a major part in developing Healers for hospitals and organizing charities and the like for the more unfortunate of society."
"I am also impressed by the quality of the blade. You said your family forged this for you? Most impressive, it is not common to find another species who cares so much for family matters. You can find similar activities on Mu Cephei as well which were founded to strengthen the bonds of a pack or clan."
"The blade of nearly every katana is made from cortosis, which is harder than even a diamond and incredibly durable, but also relatively light. I am not surprised that Mu Cephei would have similar principle activities. Canines, dogs and wolves especially, excuse my wording, are known for working in groups and as a team, rather than a more solitary fox." Inritus smiled.
"your history is very interesting. I have never heard of a species advancing in such a way. It must have been very difficult at first to colonize a planet knowing that there would be no other attempt at a different planet to act as a back-up."
"Our records show that more planets than only Xiscapia were colonized, but most of the kitsune colonizers either left, vanished mysteriously or died out. We have discovered one planet where we found the remains of a long dead kitsune Empire that ruled the entire world, and another world which we believe is a long lost colony, kitsune whose forerunners are almost undoubtedly our ancient colonial ancestors. There are probably many, many more ruins and lost colonies out there among the stars."
"Maybe some of the Xiscapians that got lost landed on our planet and influence our culture? Maybe the answer will be clearer when we exchange data. Do you wish for seconds?"
"Perhaps." Inritus shrugged. "To enter a different galaxy entirely would have been wildly off-course, but it's possible. I am sure many things will be revealed when we fully open information to each other. No seconds, thank you," he wiped his mouth with his napkin, "although the food was excellent."
"I guess we will be joined shortly by General Isoke and a new guest soon,"
"Interesting," said Inritus, settling into his chair as he picked up his sword and sheathed it, putting it back by his side. "I wonder who, and what, exactly, these new contacts are? I doubt any other kitsune in history has been so lucky as to meet two new contacts in less than as many hours!" He looked truly excited at the prospect of meeting yet another species.

Cape billowing dramatically despite the conspicuous lack of wind, traces of frost vanishing from nose and eyes as he left vacuum, the Kanuckistani touched down some meters short of Isoke, a flick of the wrist seeing the umbrella returned to it's compact form and stowed under his arm, hand resting on it's butt.

Posture and canine body language betraying a detached amusement as he noted the tensed soldiery, features shifted to a calm, confident smile-analog - muchly expressed in the set of the ears and tail - framing rich amber eyes as he met the alien commander's gaze in a friendly enough manner.

"Greetings and salutations!" their guest proclaimed in grand tones, approaching with graceful confidence(if one could ignore his invisible forearms, hands seemingly floating free), each soft footfall an active ping for the sonar that was his enhanced hearing. Offering his free hand in that ancient Terran gesture of friendship the natives were probably familiar with, given their knowledge of English - which he spoke now with light accent, he continued, "I am, as you know, Captain Nathan Notevil, commander and owner of the Kanuckistani Civilian Vessel Atomic Rocket."


All in all he seemed surprisingly unconcerned for his safety, given the dozen or so soldiers currently pointing weapons at him.

"In wartime the military have more control because they know how to handle war," said Inritus simply. "If a fire was burning in your home, would you call the matchmaker or the firefighter?"

"True, but I usually find it strange when governments switch power so much. Mu Cephei does it as well, but I can't help to think that leaving power to a single force would be so much easier," Tokala responded, "then just throwing it around so much."


"Qonn does not require extensive worship except for the truly devoted. To the average citizen it has more practical uses, such as teaching control and refinement of the Force. It also plays a major part in developing Healers for hospitals and organizing charities and the like for the more unfortunate of society."

"So it is also a source for better education? It seems Qonn has a wide range of uses," Tokala smiled, "most on Mu Cephei find it impossible for a 'great creator' to exist. The logic behind this is the fact that something can't simply exist. Something had to make it and since god is a deity that exist before time it can't exist since nothing could have made it. However, there is one fault with this logic and that is everything around us had to be made by something or someone at one point. The question is, what made everything?"

Tokala laughed, "to tell you the truth I don't like pondering the existence of a creator. It if doesn't exist then what's the point and if it does exist what business do I have to question one of such great power?"


"The blade of nearly every katana is made from cortosis, which is harder than even a diamond and incredibly durable, but also relatively light. I am not surprised that Mu Cephei would have similar principle activities. Canines, dogs and wolves especially, excuse my wording, are known for working in groups and as a team, rather than a more solitary fox." Inritus smiled.

"Ha! So true, during my youth I never liked the group training. I always thought everyone was to dumb to be of any help, but I learned over time everyone had their uses. The wolves are strong and make great leaders, the dogs are ever so loyal to their comrades and do their best to please every, and of course we foxes are the cleverest of the bunch," Tokala chuckled knowing his new acquaintance would no doubt agree with him.


"Our records show that more planets than only Xiscapia were colonized, but most of the kitsune colonizers either left, vanished mysteriously or died out. We have discovered one planet where we found the remains of a long dead kitsune Empire that ruled the entire world, and another world which we believe is a long lost colony, kitsune whose forerunners are almost undoubtedly our ancient colonial ancestors. There are probably many, many more ruins and lost colonies out there among the stars."

"Hmm, maybe Mu Cephei came across some of them at one time? No, I doubt that. Our galaxies are too far apart for a standard interstellar type engine. Actually, how the hell did you make it here? Your galaxy is so far away... It must have been harsher then you make it seem it was," Tokala eyed Inritus, "if you would like I put in a request for medics to assist anyone one in your fleet who needs help, fresh food can be delivered as well as water, and anything else you may find necessary."


"Perhaps." Inritus shrugged. "To enter a different galaxy entirely would have been wildly off-course, but it's possible. I am sure many things will be revealed when we fully open information to each other. No seconds, thank you," he wiped his mouth with his napkin, "although the food was excellent."

"Yes, now that I think of it it would be very difficult. I am happy you enjoyed the food and I hope you consider my offer of help," Tokala smiled wondering what was holding up the General.


"Interesting," said Inritus, settling into his chair as he picked up his sword and sheathed it, putting it back by his side. "I wonder who, and what, exactly, these new contacts are? I doubt any other kitsune in history has been so lucky as to meet two new contacts in less than as many hours!" He looked truly excited at the prospect of meeting yet another species.

"To tell the truth I am a little nervous. This is the first time first contact has worked so well and well. You probably know the human saying, 'stop when your ahead. Yeah," Tokala chuckled nervously.


"Greetings and salutations!" their guest proclaimed in grand tones, approaching with graceful confidence(if one could ignore his invisible forearms, hands seemingly floating free), each soft footfall an active ping for the sonar that was his enhanced hearing. Offering his free hand in that ancient Terran gesture of friendship the natives were probably familiar with, given their knowledge of English - which he spoke now with light accent, he continued, "I am, as you know, Captain Nathan Notevil, commander and owner of the Kanuckistani Civilian Vessel Atomic Rocket."

OOC: By any chance is your alien race based of Rayman? Comparing your tone of write to your dialogue, and now this... I have a feeling in my stomach that makes me want to bring out my old game system and start playing... lol

IC:
"O-kay... Hmm..." Isoke stared at the figure before gesturing to his private security detail to step aside. The hanger deck security stood where they were though not sure what to do, "greetings," Isoke spoke calmly.

"I am General Isoke. Commanding Officer of this ship and space patrol. Welcome aboard The Murdering Toddy," Isoke gestured to his guards and they moved by the elevator doors which were still open,"may we move to my private dining hall where we may speak more openly? There will be food and drink of course. Would you prefer to try some Mu Cepheian food or human food?"

"True, but I usually find it strange when governments switch power so much. Mu Cephei does it as well, but I can't help to think that leaving power to a single force would be so much easier," Tokala responded, "then just throwing it around so much."
"In general, we feel that politicians make bad military strategists, although our Emperor is a former soldier and a great warrior. In turn, military generals usually don't do a great job of running a nation in such a manner that people like, but these are really stereotypes." Inritus shrugged. "I'm sure out there somewhere there's a someone who is both."
Tokala laughed, "to tell you the truth I don't like pondering the existence of a creator. It if doesn't exist then what's the point and if it does exist what business do I have to question one of such great power?"
"Some take comfort in believing a creator does not exist, because it means that they are not ultimately held accountable for their actions and there is no final judgement. On the other hand, many do believe in a grand creator because it at least means someone designed them for something, and perhaps even has a purpose and plan in mind." Inritus shrugged. "We believe there is more gods than just Qonn, but we do not worship them. Some are good, and some are very, very bad. You can choose not to believe in a deity, but the problem emerges when you find out that some of the more unpleasant gods believe in you."
"Hmm, maybe Mu Cephei came across some of them at one time? No, I doubt that. Our galaxies are too far apart for a standard interstellar type engine. Actually, how the hell did you make it here? Your galaxy is so far away... It must have been harsher then you make it seem it was," Tokala eyed Inritus, "if you would like I put in a request for medics to assist anyone one in your fleet who needs help, fresh food can be delivered as well as water, and anything else you may find necessary."
"Ah, but if I were to impart how we got here, that would be telling," Inritus winked, letting Tokala know that, while he thought the Mu Cephein an interesting conversational partner and maybe a friend, he did not trust him fully. "We have come with all the necessary precautions, and those under my command are fine. We experience no lasting negative effects from our method of travel."
"To tell the truth I am a little nervous. This is the first time first contact has worked so well and well. You probably know the human saying, 'stop when your ahead. Yeah," Tokala chuckled nervously.
Inritus also laughed. "True that it is. But we will see if this other works as well. After all, aliens can be so...different." He smiled, and once again his sharp teeth were exposed, looking slightly out of place in an otherwise human mouth.

OOC:
Race is... complicated, in Kanuckistan, tho I'll leave that for the RP. But no, he's just wearing some fancy thermoptic gauntlets; basicly clothing with really fancy refractive optical properties that bend the light around the surface to render the contents invisible.

I actually export it.

Tho I will note that the Cap'n 'ere is heavily augmented and armoured, complete with internal conversion reactors and other fancy kit, even if none of that's apparent on the surface.

IC:
'No weapon scans, no asking me to disarm - curious,' Nathan thought, 'Atleast as far as my own sensor suites can tell.'


"Sure," he replied aloud with a tilt of the head and a chuckle, "No point coming all this way if yer not going to try new things, eh?"

And with each footfall towards that dining hall, those sensors would passively build up a map of the ship, each breath of shipboard air screened by his augmented sense of smell, picked over and cross-referenced by neural lace - age, species, health, diet, mood, even the faintest chemical trace, by the time Isoke could offer him a seat at the table Notevil would have assembled a positively disturbing amount of information on the ship and crew; the nose knows, as the saying went, and this wolf's was as keen as they got.

OOC: Not trying to start a war or anything, but I though I would add a twist to our rp. If you guys don't want political bureaucracy, power struggle, or a S.O.B. trying to get everyone to bow to his/her will then say so and I'll edit everything out.

IC:

"In general, we feel that politicians make bad military strategists, although our Emperor is a former soldier and a great warrior. In turn, military generals usually don't do a great job of running a nation in such a manner that people like, but these are really stereotypes." Inritus shrugged. "I'm sure out there somewhere there's a someone who is both."

"Surely," Tokala nodded, "do you take an interest in politics? It seems you know a lot on this topic. Either that or I know too little." Tokala chuckled, "I never did like politics. It's logic makes sense, but is still hard to understand which is why I prefer culture studies. There is no logic to it just understanding."

"Some take comfort in believing a creator does not exist, because it means that they are not ultimately held accountable for their actions and there is no final judgement. On the other hand, many do believe in a grand creator because it at least means someone designed them for something, and perhaps even has a purpose and plan in mind." Inritus shrugged. "We believe there is more gods than just Qonn, but we do not worship them. Some are good, and some are very, very bad. You can choose not to believe in a deity, but the problem emerges when you find out that some of the more unpleasant gods believe in you."

Tokala laughed, "are you trying to convert me?" Tokala smiled, "religion is like politics to me... They that religion and politics should be separated, but how can you separate something that is one of the same? It's like an atom and you know what happens when you split an atom."Tokala yawned, "this is why my interest in religion begins and ends at its culture impacts. Nothing else grasps my interest."

"Ah, but if I were to impart how we got here, that would be telling," Inritus winked, letting Tokala know that, while he thought the Mu Cephein an interesting conversational partner and maybe a friend, he did not trust him fully. "We have come with all the necessary precautions, and those under my command are fine. We experience no lasting negative effects from our method of travel."

"Oh, is that so?" Tokala smiled cursing himself and his failed attempt to get a look on their ships' insides, "well, there is very good news. Last thing we need now is a bunch of needy folks we never seen before!"

Inritus also laughed. "True that it is. But we will see if this other works as well. After all, aliens can be so...different." He smiled, and once again his sharp teeth were exposed, looking slightly out of place in an otherwise human mouth.

"Yeah-" the load speakers came on again interrupting Tokala. Just like the last message the voice of the communications officer came on, but the message was only played in the room Tokala was in and in ship security rooms.

-A message to selected rooms, Armored Defense Unit Two is moving towards C.O.'s private hall. E.T.A. five minutes.

Tokala murmured something about stupid P.A. system and spoke, "that's odd. I wonder why we suddenly need security here?" Tokala turned to face Inritus, "I'm sorry, but it seems we will shortly be joined by a group of heavily armed soldiers and maybe a mecha, I do believe that is the correct common term, soon. You have no reason to worry... Unless you plan on hijacking the ship?" Tokala laughed and a small device hanging off his belt began beeping.

"Odd that only beeps in emergencies... Err, I mean... Excuse me for a second," Tokala stood from his seat, bowed slightly and walked out of the room putting the beeping device to his hear and extending a mic down to his mouth, the communications officer's voice came on.

-Tokala, High Space Corp. Command (HISPCCOM) has finally received word of our bump-in with the aliens and now their taking action. I don't know what they want, but it must be big. So far we only received orders to send a mecha unit to the area of the guest on the ship and several Self-Defense Platforms have locked onto our position from Mu Cephei's orbit, but I'm afraid Isoke may be stripped of his command if things don't go HISPCCOM's way. That would give them the means to put someone else in charge.

Tokala murmured a curse, "are you sure?" he asked.

-Yes and now several dropships are heading towards the ship to drop off some more soldiers as 'back-up' and a friend of mine back on Mu Cephei in Intel says there's a Political Officer onboard. I already informed Isoke.

"Thanks for telling me this and good work. Get back to work before one of your fellow officers report you in hopes of a promotion," Tokala pressed a button and put the device back on his belt. He walked back into the room, bowed, and took a seat opposite of Inritus.

"My apologies, a friend of mine wanted to warn me of a coming... Lets say, an annoyance," Tokala faked a smile.

Tokala frowned, "do wish to know why Mu Cephei has rotten luck with first contacts? It might make our friendly conversation into a dark on though. Just a warning."

"Sure," he replied aloud with a tilt of the head and a chuckle, "No point coming all this way if yer not going to try new things, eh?"

"Yes," Isoke smiled leading his guest into the elevator, "that logic makes prefect sense." The door shut and the elevator began moving up. A device similar to Tokala's beeped and like Tokala, Isoke extended the mic and put it to his ear. Moments later Isoke began to murmur in his native tongue. Then he yelled something in anger and put the device away.

"We better hurry. Also, please refrain from jumping to conclusions. As long as I am in command neither you or your fleet will come to harm." Isoke sighed, "trouble is coming in the form of political bureaucracy I'm afraid. I'll tell you more when we reach my private quarters."

OOC:
Of course - Unlike Chinese peasants, RPers thrive on interesting times. :D


IC:
Taking the opportunity to add to the fleet's preliminary translation matrix - still nowhere near operational - Nathan paid careful attention to the exchange, Isoke's body language, and his scent, picking up not only the Communications Officer's side of the conversation, but what background sounds the communications device relayed.

And so by the time Isoke spoke to warn him, he was already expecting something of this ilk.

"...As long as you are in command..." he mused, "Between what you've said and the ships I'm tracking enroute, I dare say they may be prepared for that."

Smiling, with an air of confidence that spoke of hidden knowledge, he added, "But don't worry about us - I've a degree in First Contact Studies. We're prepared."

"Surely," Tokala nodded, "do you take an interest in politics? It seems you know a lot on this topic. Either that or I know too little." Tokala chuckled, "I never did like politics. It's logic makes sense, but is still hard to understand which is why I prefer culture studies. There is no logic to it just understanding."
"My interest in politics doesn't extend beyond that of the military. I was extensively briefed before undertaking this voyage on First Contact protocol and our general culture, so I can answer questions such as those you are posing. A Captain, my superiors reason, needs to be more than simply the commander of a vessel, especially on such a mission as this."
Tokala laughed, "are you trying to convert me?" Tokala smiled, "religion is like politics to me... They that religion and politics should be separated, but how can you separate something that is one of the same? It's like an atom and you know what happens when you split an atom."Tokala yawned, "this is why my interest in religion begins and ends at its culture impacts. Nothing else grasps my interest."
"I am merely attempting to explain the reasoning behind religion in general. Religion, that is belief in gods, saints, supernatural forces and so on, can be far more powerful than politics. The government may have a grasp on the people's minds, but religion owns their hearts." Inritus nodded sagely.
"My apologies, a friend of mine wanted to warn me of a coming... Lets say, an annoyance," Tokala faked a smile.

Tokala frowned, "do wish to know why Mu Cephei has rotten luck with first contacts? It might make our friendly conversation into a dark on though. Just a warning."
Inritus nodded, having sat quietly while Tokala conferred with his "friend." The Xiscapian Rear Admiral sensed the tension on the ship, and not merely because of the aliens aboard, but something more. Something, probably involving the government, was going down.
"I would like to know why your people are unable to forge friendly relations with other races. Everyone has their own bad luck in diplomacy, but for us to be your first successful, non-hostile first contact, well, it is unprecedented. Your hospitality is good, you make no initiative to attack, your caution is only expected...yes," Inritus gazed at the fox, "I would like to know."

"...As long as you are in command..." he mused, "Between what you've said and the ships I'm tracking enroute, I dare say they may be prepared for that."

Smiling, with an air of confidence that spoke of hidden knowledge, he added, "But don't worry about us - I've a degree in First Contact Studies. We're prepared."

OOC: That just wrong... lol

IC:
"First Contact Studies? Never heard of it, but I am glad you understand," Isoke smiled as the door dilated and Isoke stepped out leading Nathan to the private dining hall. The two guards followed and stopped at the door joining the two other guards that were already there in the first place.

"Well everyone!" Isoke greeted everyone in the room, "I do hope Tokala informed you of our current situation for we are going to confront our problem very soon!"

Inritus nodded, having sat quietly while Tokala conferred with his "friend." The Xiscapian Rear Admiral sensed the tension on the ship, and not merely because of the aliens aboard, but something more. Something, probably involving the government, was going down.
"I would like to know why your people are unable to forge friendly relations with other races. Everyone has their own bad luck in diplomacy, but for us to be your first successful, non-hostile first contact, well, it is unprecedented. Your hospitality is good, you make no initiative to attack, your caution is only expected...yes," Inritus gazed at the fox, "I would like to know."

"Okay, background first then. Now, as I told you there are eight dynasties in Mu Cephei. I also told you that the dynasties get their own branch of government, but why would they need their own branch when they already make up most of the government? Because they barely rule the rest of the government. There are two other dynasties in Mu Cephei," Tokala took a deep breath.

"There dynasties are not recognized by the others though so they have no say in the court, but they may put someone up for election in the other two branches. Sometimes they win, but most of the time they loose. At one point in history an Other was able to pass a law that would change our military forever. The Others cannot take part in the military and have no say it what it does, but with that one law they were able to gain a lot of power through a figure called the Political Officer," Tokala took a second breath.

"Political Officers are Others who basically military commanders telling them that what they are currently doing is wrong and this is how it should be done. This includes first contacts. Just like my C.O. has done so far most of the time the military commander who bumped into the aliens, excuse my wording, will treat them as good friends even though it is the first time meet. Then a Political Officer is sent to supervise the situation," Tokala wait a few seconds to let that sink in.

"That is when things go to hell. We of the military, as well as yourself most likely, know that demanding information from an alien race you just made contact with is a bad idea. Give away too much info and you just might see an invasion fleet coming to your planet as the saying goes. So the Political Officer starts to demand information, the aliens get pissed and try to leave before we can say we trust them," Tokala sighed and looked down, talking slowly.

"It is our law that we cannot allow an alien fleet to leave without knowing for sure they wouldn't come back to destroy us. So, we end up destroying what of the alien fleet that has yet to leave and track the others until they reach their homeworld. That is when we assemble ourselves for war and. Well, you know what comes next, "Tokala looked up and smiled.

"I know you can't trust me or anyone else yet until your sure we won't betray you or anyone else of your race, but please listen to me now very carefully. Don't do anything stupid to the Political Officer. Don't threaten him, don't attack him, and never ever speak in your native tongue at any point when he is in the room. This could be reason for him to strip Isoke of his command and do something that could result in an intergalactic war between us," Tokala looked seriously at Inritus.

"Remember," Tokala took a breath, "as long as me and Isoke are in command nothing will happen to you or anyone else in your fleet."

Isoke walked into the room, "well everyone! I do hope Tokala informed you of our current situation for we are going to confront our problem very soon!"

____________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________

The five dropships controlled by a Semi-Intelligent A.I. landed onto a hanger on The Murdering Toddy, their metal landing gears attaching to the magnetic hanger floor. The shield appeared and twenty or so soldiers, not like their Mu Cephei military counterparts in appearance, stepped off the dropships. They entered the ship through the hanger doors meeting a squad of Mu Cepheian Infantry.

"Ah," a Jackal stepped off the dropship, "so this is the ship that made first contact? Hmm, it appears to be ugly from here maybe Commander Isoke can show me around sometime?" The female Mu Cepheian flipped through a file on Isoke before throwing it back on the dropship. She turned to the hanger doors and entered the ship. Ignoring the squad of Infantry she walked to the elevator with a team of five of her soldiers and they began making their way to the dining hall.

The other soldiers made their way to the C.I.C.

Intirus listened quietly to the red fox until he was finished. Political Officer...figures. Though I wonder how they will find us fit to trust...if they never have done so with anyone else.
"Remember," Tokala took a breath, "as long as me and Isoke are in command nothing will happen to you or anyone else in your fleet."
Rear Admiral Inritus gave a slow, bright, and ultimately empty smile. "Xiscapians are renowned for their manners, hospitality and tolerance. I doubt very much that this person will strain us, we have dealt with worse before and will do so again. Do not worry yourself, I will be..." his eyes glittered. "civilized."
Privately Inritus was sure Xiscapia could withstand an attack from the Mu Cephei, but for one it did not do to go about looking for war, for another Inritus quite liked Tokala and found the others of his ilk polite, intelligent and virtuous and did not want to do anything that might cause them to come to harm, and for third he was not sure about the First Exploratory Fleet's chances on the home turf of the Mu Cephei.
"Well everyone! I do hope Tokala informed you of our current situation for we are going to confront our problem very soon!"
Inritus looked to Isoke for a moment before his attention was drawn to the creature behind him. He gave it the tiniest of nods, a sign of acknowledgement, before looking back to the General. "Yes, your Executive Officer was kind enough to brief me on the situation. I feel I am prepared." He nodded again, much more visibly.

Nathan strode in behind Isoke with an air of invulnerability, cape billowing dramatically, sparing the ape-fox a momentary glance and a quirked brow; "I believe we are prepared for all eventualities," he added confidently to Inritus' reply, not mentioning he had heard the entire explanation, "I feel you should know, however, that everything our fleet has seen is being backed up on servers in the Home Cluster, via entanglement datalinks, in real time."

'No need to mention that anyone in the fleet not telecommuting here was a Distributed Sapience.' he mused internally, from his house on Kyoto, in the Star Wars Galaxy, 'Not after that bomb shell.'

"Anyway, General, would you care to make introductions befor we are interrupted? I suspect we don't have long."

Rear Admiral Inritus gave a slow, bright, and ultimately empty smile. "Xiscapians are renowned for their manners, hospitality and tolerance. I doubt very much that this person will strain us, we have dealt with worse before and will do so again. Do not worry yourself, I will be..." his eyes glittered. "civilized."

"Well," Tokala smiled, "that's good. Glad your prepared for the worse."

Inritus looked to Isoke for a moment before his attention was drawn to the creature behind him. He gave it the tiniest of nods, a sign of acknowledgement, before looking back to the General. "Yes, your Executive Officer was kind enough to brief me on the situation. I feel I am prepared." He nodded again, much more visibly.

"Very good then. Tokala," Isoke looked down to the XO. Tokala quickly stood and put his head up slightly exposing his neck to the General.

"Sir," Tokala stood firmly with his paws at his side and his tail flat against his officer's pants uniform.

"Go down to the hanger and stall the political officer so that I may lay down the ground rules for our guest," Tokala bowed slightly and headed for the elevator.

Nathan strode in behind Isoke with an air of invulnerability, cape billowing dramatically, sparing the ape-fox a momentary glance and a quirked brow; "I believe we are prepared for all eventualities," he added confidently to Inritus' reply, not mentioning he had heard the entire explanation, "I feel you should know, however, that everything our fleet has seen is being backed up on servers in the Home Cluster, via entanglement datalinks, in real time."

"Dammit I was hoping it wouldn't be too late to reduce the risk of war, but I am glad your confident in your abilities," Isoke cursed himself for being too late to stop the aliens from sending any communications.

"Anyway, General, would you care to make introductions befor we are interrupted? I suspect we don't have long."

"Very well. Tokala, are you still there? Come here," Tokala pressed on a button to close the elevator doors. Tokala walked back in standing by Isoke's side. Isoke spoke once again, "I am General Isoke of The Dynasty of Fangs. I am the commanding officer of this vessel, The Murdering Toddy and of this fleet." Isoke gestured to Tokala.

"I am Lieutenant Colonel Tokala of The Dynasty of Sight. I am the second in command of this vessel," Tokala waited for the responses of the guest.

Inritus rose and gave a perfect bow at a precise forty-five degree angle for about three seconds before straightening up to the being. "I am Rear Admiral Inritus, commander of the First Exploratory Fleet of the Kitsune Empire of Xiscapia." he said simply in accented Galactic Basic.

"Nathan Notevil," the wolf began, slipping into a comfortable 'at ease' stance, "Executive Officer, Happy Bunny Astrometrics, Incorperated First Task Force, Owner and Captain, Kanuckistani Civilian Vessel Atomic Rocket, amoungst others."

"And I find it curious that removing what would seem to have been your primary reason for initiating hostilities would increase the risk of war. Attacking us now doesn't gain you anything."

*poke*

[/ooc]

OOC: He's done it again...

OOC: He's done it again...

Wanna send him another message?

Wanna send him another message?
Done it already.

OOC:

*crickets*

...I'm assuming you didn't hear back from him?

OOC: I'm afraid not. It says he's here, on NS, but I never got a response back. I guess this thing is dead...I'll be sure to let you know and re-send the link if I ever hear back from him again. In the meantime...*shrugs* All the best.