NationStates Jolt Archive

Space exploration can be a costly thing.
First you have to assemble the fleet (as a single ship just won't do, apparently) and the vessels themselves will probably be a myriad of scientific ships, mapping craft, sensor ships, drones, military vessels for protection, portable laboratories, cargo ships for food, water and equipment, and so on and so forth. With this you will get the equally diverse crew, all disagreeing on the right way to do things, especially between scientists and soldiers, and this will divide your fleet even further. All these ships have to be bought or constructed, all the equipment must be purchased or manufactured, all the crew must be paid and don't even ask about the veritable mountain of paperwork. Finally, you're ready to go. While traveling the stars you must be prepared for all dangers which could pose problems: Ion storms, Warp storms, pirates, enemy nationals, unknown xenophobic aliens, unknown xenophobic humans (a thousand times worse than the former), rouge planets, exploding stars, black holes, disease, mutiny, mechanical, technical or droid failure or malfunction, sabotage, the list goes on.

And for what?

Most of the time, you will find nothing of interest. Space is filled with nothing obviously, it is called space after all. Most of the planets you encounter will be uninhabitable, and those that are will already be colonized by someone else, be home to hostile natives, animals or diseases, or be dangerously close to some hazardous natural phenomenon that could destroy it, such as a black hole, dying star, or others. Sometimes it is all three.
So what does a cost-minded, modern, conservative when it comes to ships and above all rather weary of the universe at large nation do?

Simple: It packs everything into one neat, durable, nearly indestructible package.

After the Korr War, a millennial long struggle between Xiscapia and their in-system neighbors the Korr, the kitsune became interested in seeing what was beyond their lonely little sphere of space. At first it did build exploratory fleets, and indeed two of them are still in operation today. But it was quickly realized, as the ships came back battle-damaged or not at all, that this method was not cost-effective or forgiving to those who followed it. So Xiscapia enlisted it's brightest minds to do two things:
Build the perfect scout ship.
Build the perfect android.

The ship came first, dubbed the Twilight class, a fifty-four foot long (16 meter) long-range exploratory vessel (http://premium1.uploadit.org/MaxOutrider/ShipImages/Marauder-Corvette.jpg) lightly armed but packed with all the necessities. It was clear, however, that no biological could undertake missions that spanned years at a time and survive without frequent trips back to a base. So the Twilight class was equipped with a tiny wormhole inside of it where all information would be fed though straight back to Xiscapia with barely any delay, and the scout was outfitted to function indefinitely to conform with it's counterpart: The android.

Specifically, this class of android was the Mk.XVII model three, the first model being a basic droid which was capable of rudimentary actions, the second a prototype for the third. This class had enough weaponry concealed within it's mainframe to effectively demolish a small building, the intelligence to bring down a capital ship from the inside, the durability to do both, and the restraint and foresight to try and avoid having to do either. First and foremost, the Mk.XVII model three was a diplomat, designed for First Contact with other races and peoples. It was compatible with the Twilight class, the two literally made for each other, and the Kitsune Empire delegated tasks to the first two of such to go out and explore for the her.

The first, Unit 323956, had been wildly successful. First Contact had been established with no less than two unknown races with her, she coordinated a war which the Kitsune Empire won with minimal losses, took and established groundwork for two colonies, and was now involved with yet another nation in helping them get home. The other, Unit 505221, had experienced less victory. So far he had, to his name, no First Contacts, a little data on some previously unknown races, standard intelligence information and some rather beautiful photography of some stars and planets. However, that was all about to change...
Now.

One such scout ship entered a system which had not been mapped by the Kitsune Empire. So far remote, casual observation had revealed no life from it, so this was expected to be another blue milk run. Piloting the scout was a single person, an android to be precise. It, (or rather, he, for the male sex had been what the cosmetic form had been based around) had been manufactured with two specific aims in mind: To show the viewer clearly what an Xiscapian looked like, but to also demonstrate that this was an android, and not the actual biological representation.

He had two rust-colored, life-sized fox ears sprouting out of the top of her head, known as "top ears" to distinguish them from the rather more human ones where one would expect them to be. These top ears were the main audio receptors on a biological Xiscapian, providing them with a keener sense of hearing than a human, though this android had many more hidden droid appendages that did the same, only better. A slight addition was what appeared to be twin white "fins" ahead of the fox ears, which were actually transmitters and not found on your average kitsune. The android's eyes were yellow and slitted, like a cat's, and artificially grown in his mouth were sharp, pointy teeth, a carnivore's obviously made for tearing though muscle and flesh to rip meat from bone. Aside from his jet black hair, the most obvious feature was the plumy, orange fox tail, almost disproportionately large, coming out though his jumpsuit just above his rear to extend behind him in a silken burst.

Despite all this, there was something about the android that gave most biologicals not familiar with them the shivers. The eyes were dead and lifeless and the stance and general motion, while smooth and not jerky, seemed almost too polished, an inhuman grace. When he spoke his voice was not cold, as that would have implied emotion, but expressionless and empty, without the accent of feeling. Unit 505221, as he had been designated in the factory, wore a black jumpsuit now, and though the face it offset seemed handsome, his skin was hardened plastic, hair and fur, realistic but synthetic. A white katana hung at his side, along with a holstered service laser pistol and a combat knife was sheathed in his left boot.

Unit 505221 waited, scans sweeping the system. Droids had infinite patience, combined with the efficiency that could be deadly and entirely without ethics or mercy, gave him an eerie stillness, without fidgeting or the usual flickers of life one saw in biologicals. Manipulating the controls though his direct link with the scout, the twin forward cannons began to spit out tiny drone probes, too small to be seen by sensors unless they got quite close to another ship or station. Angling the scout, Unit 505221 calmly glided further into the star system, releasing probes as he went. He felt no disappointment in finding nothing of interest, nor resentment to his counterpart for achieving more success than he. Unit 505221 was not equipped with the capacity for such things.

He only started his observation of what was again undoubtedly going to be a dead system, uncloaked, moving slowly forward.

This time things were going to be different for the android. Scans were going to reveal plenty about this system very quickly. There would be plenty of high-energy levels as multiple orbital defensive cannons came online with the arrival of the new ship. The ship was not only in Greywatch, but the very system that Greywatch Prime, the capital planet of Greywatch, was located in. Unfortunately, after rounding a gas giant near the edge of the system the android had actually crossed into the space above Kiixoran, one of Greywatch’s more aggressive alien races. Immediately a message was put through. Of course, it was in the Kiixori, not English, and sounded like nothing more than chirping and clicking insects. In reality, the message was actually quite a hostile one, and its open broadcast got attention quickly.
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Kiixoran, Anti-Orbital Cannon Station 204:

An officer awoke to the sound of an alarm going off. He looked around, rubbing his eyes before looking at his console. “Ah shit!” He muttered before grabbing a headset. “This is AOC Station 204, Orbital Grid 4, there’s activity in my sector, other AOC cannons are coming online, please advise.” A voice came back quickly, “We know, we’ve gotten a lot of cannons are coming online as we speak. All of them are under Kiixori control. Something’s riled them up.”
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Kiixoran, Orbital Grid 4, Defense Hub:

Officers were scrabling around trying to figure out what was going on. A commander walked in on the chaos, a holo-screen in front of them was flashing with displays of several surface based AOCs coming online as well as a few orbiting cannons. “Dammit, open a SCN link to Greywatch Prime. Tell the council this is fucking important. I need the order.” An officer looked up from his console, “Sir, I just hacked into Kiixori station targeting controls, it seem one of there probes detected something. They apparently have been keeping them out in different parts of the system as an early warning system if someone tries to cross into the territory.” The commander shook his head, “Those damn buggers… as bad as the New Heaven bastards…” Another officer looked up, “New Heaven wouldn’t blasted that thing to hell without a second thought.” A light on his console came up, “Sir, orders, the council permits us to shut down the grid.” The commander nodded as a Drone walked in, it was in a black armor with red stripes going down its left arm. The Drone looked at the commander and held out its fist, when it opened its hand there were two special keys in it. “Redemption’s Cleaver has brought what you require.” The commander nodded and took one of the keys, “Let’s do this quick please.” They both walked to opposite sides of the room putting the keys into special consoles and turning them simultaneously before initiating eye and palm scans. The alerts suddenly stopped.
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Kiixoran Surface:

Several AOCs that were nearly at full charge suddenly shut down. The entire surface grid was shut down, both Kiixori and human guns were brought down to 5% power instantly. Several Kiixori were shouting communications to their military HQ and to the Orbital Grid 4 Defense Hub. Several reports were coming in to the Kiixori military that both surface and orbital cannons had been shut down.
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Greywatch Prime:
A ship was already being readied to open PSR into Kiixoran space. Special Greywatch ships like this one had the special ability of being immune to Greywatch AOC and orbital cannons due to a special signature that kept them from being targeted and/or fired upon by automated systems. The ship was a special frigate, a test frigate actually, Greywatch had been trying out new designs as of late. Either way a moment later the frigate opened up a PSR and disappeared into it.
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Kiixoran Space:

At the same time the frigate went into PSR it came out over Kiixoran. The thing was only about a single Km in length, still being a test and all. A message was put through to the vessel:

<You seemed to have picked the perfect spot to come into Greywatch… Honestly, do you have any idea how close those buggers were to frying you… But that aside, who exactly are you and why are you here? By the size of your vessel this would seem to be an exploration mission? If so, welcome to Greywatch.>

OOC: God I'm not used to long posts... sry if this is crappy

The moment Unit 505221 was aware this system was inhabited by a modern civilization he knew it was too late for stealth. Already his sensors were informing him that his scout was being targeted and locked on by thousands of weapons from the orbital platforms. He immediately slowed the scout to a crawl, all probes well away, and began scanning the platforms and planets. Unit 505221 received a message, presumably from the owners of the platforms, but the language was not filed in his databanks and there was an insufficient amount of material to form a translation. Moments later, however, his scans detected a frigate dispatched from a somewhat distant world and got a transmission he recognized as Galactic Common:
<You seemed to have picked the perfect spot to come into Greywatch… Honestly, do you have any idea how close those buggers were to frying you… But that aside, who exactly are you and why are you here? By the size of your vessel this would seem to be an exploration mission? If so, welcome to Greywatch.>

My apologies, I was not aware this sector was inhabited. I am Unit 505221, an android dispatched from the Kitsune Empire of Xiscapia on an exploratory mission to this system. My intentions are entirely peaceful and my weapons are minimal. Is there a chance I could open a direct holographic feed with a diplomat, district supervisor, governor or resident ruler to establish First Contact for recording purposes?

Probes would detect that there were two gas giants in the system as well as four habitted worlds, one of them being Greywatch Prime, the most guarded world with easily to largest energy output due to large amounts of orbital trafic and enough weapons around it to take down a medium sized fleet. Howver the Greywatch frigate came back with an answer quickly:

<I've forwarded your claim to my government and they granted you permission to see a diplomat. However, this is sensitive territory and you must relocate, it will be a simple matter, you need simply to pull closer to by ship, from there I can take you to Lanoria, the place where the diplomatic meeting can be conducted without drawing too much attention. Besides the Kiixori, who's aggressive stance towards newcomers you've just seen, there is one other race we'd rather not have you meet. Is this sufficient?>

<I've forwarded your claim to my government and they granted you permission to see a diplomat. However, this is sensitive territory and you must relocate, it will be a simple matter, you need simply to pull closer to by ship, from there I can take you to Lanoria, the place where the diplomatic meeting can be conducted without drawing too much attention. Besides the Kiixori, who's aggressive stance towards newcomers you've just seen, there is one other race we'd rather not have you meet. Is this sufficient?>
The probes spread themselves throughout the system, scattered to hide in the craters of moons, in the gas screen of the giants, and in utterly empty patches of space far from any planets or ship traffic. None of them would try to enter a world though the atmosphere just yet, and most of them never would. They would just sit and watch for as long as Command thought they should.

Unit 505221 took this in faster than most biologicals, plus the message. After an instant of consideration he transmitted a response.
Affirmative, this meets my requirements. I will be moving closer to your vessel.
The scout banked somewhat and pulled in a few scant yards or so away from the bow of the frigate, apparently content to hover and await further orders.

<Initiating shield bubble, prepare for PSR travel in 2... 1... 0...>

A massive gaping rift was opened in front of them, inside one could see a bright blue as free-flowing energies created a 'tunnel' to the next world. Grvaity fluxuations were sent through the area but the rift was far enough away not to damage anything, on the other hand, if the small scouting vessel didn't have the shield bubble around it, going into the rift would be like piloting into a black hole. For less than a second everything was black, cold, still, and silent as if the world didn't even exist anymore. Then an exit formed and both ships were slowly emerging from PSR over a different world in a completely different system. The only similarity was a massive silvery nebula that could be seen in the distance, the same nebula that gave Greywatch its name. The planet ahead of them also had orbital defense platforms but these were not activated as they slowly approached the planet. Instead they got a welcome message:

<Welcome to Lanoria, we've been awaiting your arriveal, coordinates are being forwarded now.>

The coords for a landing pad on the planet surface was sent to both ships. They frigate the opened a link to the smaller vessel:

<Feel free to go, you don't need me as an escort. You will met on the surface my a party that will take you to see the diplomat.>

In orbit around the planet was a Worldslayer, it slowly came around from behind the planet, shields up but weapons powered down. Its 45Km bulk moved slowly but gave off an aggressive feel, however, it was here on its own agenda.

The scanners momentarily went blank and for a second the probes lost contact with the scout, only to resume once the vessel was though the wormhole. The frigate had been thoroughly scanned, and now the Worldslayer went under the same process, and was filed away under fleet killer. The Xiscapians didn't have anything anywhere near that size, and the sheer bulk of the thing was intimidating. Or would have been, if Unit 505221 could be intimidated. The scout glided past it, punching though the atmosphere with glowing burn flames surrounding it before decelerating abruptly and gliding gently down onto the landing pad. The cockpit popped after a few moments to let it cool down, and Unit 505221 climbed out, balanced on top of the ship, and dropped lightly to the ground. The hatch closed and locked behind him and he calmly waited for representatives.

OOC: Be mindful that Worldslayers are amoung the most difficult ships to scan, and for very good reason.
IC:

The landing pad was in the middle of a huge savanna. In the distance one could see two dome-like structures with spires jutting out of them, those were the AOCs, though one wouldn't realize that at first glance. They looked perfectly harmless while deactivated and gave off no energy signatures. Behind the android however, one could very clearly see a large tower, or at least that's what it looked like, they were called Heaven Spires, a newly develope defensive structure still being tested.
To Leanorians approached the android with smiles on their faces, their golden fur gleamed in the light of the sun. They wore traditional priestess garb and had swords at their sides, shiethed of course. They both took a bow, "The diplomat will see you now." Said one of them. "Please follow us," said the other, both their voices were flowery as they led the android into a small structure. Inside the made a right and continued to the end of the hallway where an automatic door opened. Inside was a single man with a Drone bodyguard at his side. There was a table and four chairs, all silvery in color, with a few paintings on the walls. Plently of light came in due to half of the rooms walls being one-way, tinted glass.
The man smiled, "Please have a seat." The Leanorians bowed their heads, "After you."

OOC: Positioning of the spires on the domes would be one large one in the middle and six around it in a hexagom.

Unit 505112 followed the Leanorians after a short bow. It was not necessary to scan them: The Intelligence of the Kitsune Empire had already amassed information about that race, but Unit 505221 was sure to take in the two distant AOC weapons and the Heaven Spires. Air temperature, wind direction and velocity, time of day, flora, what materials visible structures appeared to be made out of, the clouds, the priestess garb, the tall grass: All of it was taken in by the android, recorded, and sent to his superiors. Everything he saw, heard, felt and sensed would be transmitted and saved.
"Please have a seat."
"Thank you." said Unit 505221 blandly, sitting in the closest chair, arms politely folded in his lap, looking at the man who had spoken. The Drone was entirely ignored except for the note made of it's presence.

The man smiled, "I am Pegasus, the diplomat who will be interviewing you." The man looked to the Drone, "Please report." The Drone looked ahead, "No life detected: AI. Kitsune, other Drones have had contact with them. Very little is known other than some special skills a select few of them seem to have." The diplomat nodded, "So our peoples have come into contact before?" The Drone kept looking forward, "Affirmative." Pegasus looked then to the android, the two Leanorians took their seats. A device the size of a laptop materialized in the Drones hand, it was promptly given to Pegasus who put it down on the table and activated it. Several holo-screens appeared. "So then, I must ask... what exactly brought you here? And can we get in touch with your superiors?" The Leanorians nodded, they too wanted to know more about the Kitsune, several of their warriors had come into contact with two of them, demon hunters.

"So then, I must ask... what exactly brought you here? And can we get in touch with your superiors?"
"I was sent by my creators on an exploratory mission to confirm or deny the presence of life in the previous system, and potentially lay the groundwork for colonization if an opportunity presented itself. My main objective has now changed to First Contact protocol. I can contact my superiors and request an ambassador be sent to this system if you wish to interview a biological. However, I assure you I am more than capable of carrying out all the procedures of a standard Xiscapian Diplomatic Corps emissary." said Unit 505221 calmly. "My creators stance to you at this current time is entirely friendly."

"I see. Then I suppose I'll simply start with this: Do you have any questions?" Pegasus changed his tone now, an android for a diplomat wasn't something Greywatch did very often if at all. Talking to an actual Xiscapian wouldv'e been following Greywatch protocol but for the moment he didn't really care. What was important to his was that the android in front of him was very close to being the Drone standing at his own side. There was no telling how much information was being given to this thing just by it being allowed to come through the atmoshpere. The Drone gave a small smile, more from FM influence than its own will. The Leanorians listened intently for an answer.

“Do you have any questions?"
“I have a programmed set of basic questions concerning society, culture, government and morals. I will ask each of these with a five second time of elapse for consideration. If by the end of the five seconds you have not made any move to answer, I will continue to the next question. If you do not know, are uncomfortable with or not authorized to reveal information pertaining to certain questions, you may decline to answer. You may ask for clarification of a word, term of phase at any time. You may answer the questions as I ask them, or wait until the end to answer. If you need a break or a recess to confirm an answer or receive authorization for certain data, you may ask for it at any time. I will begin now.”

Unit 505221 turned his head slightly and began his question set. If Pegasus showed any inclination to respond, the kitsune android would stop and calmly listen to the answer before moving on.

“What is the full name of the nation you are representing?”
“What type of government does your nation have?”
“Who is your current ruler or rulers?”
“What is the name of your current capitol planet and city, if applicable?”
“What is your official currency?”
“What are your official languages?”
“If you have any national colors, please state them.”
“If you have a national flag, please give an example of said flag is possible.”
“If applicable, please state your national animal, bird, flower and mineral?”
“What does your nation know of the Kitsune Empire of Xiscapia?”
“What is the age of sexual consent in your nation?”
“Does your nation have capital punishment for those it deems criminals? If so, for what offenses?”
“What is your primary religion? If you do not have a primary, please state the three largest in terms of supporters.”
“Please state the legal and generally accepted social standings on the following:
Homosexuality, Prostitution, Cloning, Slavery and weapons ownership.”
“What races, in percentage, is your nation made up of?”
“Are these races tolerant of new races?”
“Do you have any allies among any other nations, organizations or corporations? Are you hostile towards any nations, organizations or corporations?”
“Has your nation or any of its armed forces or citizens ever encountered or heard of an entity known as the SASM?”
“Is your nation aware of abilities such as psychics, the Force, the Warp, magic and otherwise supernatural influences and the beings that use them?”
“Does either of your Greyknights, known as Nightshade and Redemption respectively, or anyone else in your armed forces known the location or whereabouts of Silvertooth or Nightshade Rose?”

Hearing the android spitting out questions made the Drone respond in an odd way. It began responding for Pegasus without thought.

“What is the full name of the nation you are representing?”
"The Empire of Greywatch."
“What type of government does your nation have?”
"Council run"
“Who is your current ruler or rulers?”
"Classified"
“What is the name of your current capitol planet and city, if applicable?”
"I have a feeling you already know that."
“What is your official currency?”
"Drakes."
“What are your official languages?”
"Multiple."
“If you have any national colors, please state them.”
"Unimportant."
“If you have a national flag, please give an example of said flag is possible.”
"None so far."
“If applicable, please state your national animal, bird, flower and mineral?”
"Komodo Dragon. Nothing more."
“What does your nation know of the Kitsune Empire of Xiscapia?”
"Very little, classified."
“What is the age of sexual consent in your nation?”
"Twenty years of age."
“Does your nation have capital punishment for those it deems criminals? If so, for what offenses?”
"Unimportant."
“What is your primary religion? If you do not have a primary, please state the three largest in terms of supporters.”
"Elden Theory."
“Please state the legal and generally accepted social standings on the following:
Homosexuality, Prostitution, Cloning, Slavery and weapons ownership.”
"No one cares, depends where, no one cares, outlawed, within reason."
“What races, in percentage, is your nation made up of?”
"Unimportant."
“Are these races tolerant of new races?”
"You've met the Kiixori, humans and the Leanorians, form an opinion."
“Do you have any allies among any other nations, organizations or corporations? Are you hostile towards any nations, organizations or corporations?”
"Nuetrality is best."
“Has your nation or any of its armed forces or citizens ever encountered or heard of an entity known as the SASM?”
"No. Elaborate."
“Is your nation aware of abilities such as psychics, the Force, the Warp, magic and otherwise supernatural influences and the beings that use them?”
"You should know the answer to that."
“Does either of your Greyknights, known as Nightshade and Redemption respectively, or anyone else in your armed forces known the location or whereabouts of Silvertooth or Nightshade Rose?”
To this question the Drone did not answer, nor did anyone else. They were all silent for a few moments, both Pegasus and the Leanorians looked to the Drone. They honestly didn't know what the android was talking about, however, the Drone most likely did. And it was odd that the Drone had suddenly stopped talking. Then the Drone nodded to no one in particular as if it had been given a signal. "The Greyknights are dead, they lived in legend thousands of years ago and no longer exist. As for Silvertooth and Nightshade Rose... there are no records of them in the Greywatch archives." Pegasus sighed, "You have quite an extensive knowledge don't you... following protocol right down to the letter..." He then looked to the android, "Those are your answers, the very way I would most likely of answered the,. Though I wouldn't have sped through them like that."

Unit 505221 dutifully recorded and transmitted the information, noting it seemed unusual for the Drone to give answers rather than the human. The answers were not quite as long or specific as his superiors would have liked, but they would do. What the Drone deemed "Unimportant" mostly was, what wasn't could easily be found out, and what was classified either the Empire already knew or wasn't interested in knowing. The android spoke of the only question it had asked to be elaborated on.
"SASM stands of Society for the Advancement of Social Medicine. A answer that is not a definite yes or classified indicates you have had no contact of any kind. This answers all relevant questions on the part of my creators." Unit 505221 said softly. He looked to Pegasus. "If you consider these correct, viable answers then they will be accepted as such. If there is anything you would like to know about the Kitsune Empire, I will tell you as I am permitted. Otherwise we shall move on."

Pegasus nodded, "Everything there was correct. Obviously the FM is quite aware of your presence..." Pegasus sighed and then looked at his holoscreens. "I wish to first know the full name of you empire, details of your race as well as any special abilities it may possess. Also, what contact have you have had with Greywatch in the past? And exactly how much do you know about us? We are, to be truthful, very concerned that you have experience with our race yet we have almost no knowledge of yours. We are also quite aware that as an android you have been collecting information on anything and everything you can. What have you gathered since your entrance here? Why does your race think of ours? What are your superiors hoping to get out of this? Why do you ask of the Greyknights? The ancient and extinct warriors of Greywatch."

The android listened silently. "I come from the Kitsune Empire of Xiscapia. Kitsune are generally identical as you see me, with a few rare exceptions. My creators have excellent nocturnal vision and their reflexes and grace is better than any human's and on par with most genetically modified or cybernetic augmented beings. Their special abilities are wide and varied, although what your definition of "special" is may be different than theirs. My superiors have recorded a total of two contacts with Greywatch nationals on two separate occasions, both military operations, both times on the same side. What we know of you is classified information. What information I have gathered since I entered the previous system is also classified. In general, the public is unaware of Greywatch's existence, and the government regards Greywatch with a neutral curiosity. I mention the Greyknights because I assumed that is what the forces two of our agents met with of yours called themselves. Perhaps they were mistaken. My superiors seek a treaty of alliance between our two nations or, failing that, a declaration of mutual neutrality. We will go in-depth into terms of alliance or neutrality later."

"Peace is a hard thing to ask for when you keep information about us from us. It would seem more like you wish to have an advantage, though to what end I cannot tell. Greywatch knows very little about you other than the one military contact on the chaos planet." Pegasus looked at the various holoscreens, "Yes, my files have just now been updated. However, if you truly wish to have any chance of peace with us, I would ask that you open up a little more, especially when regarding sensitive information that you could be very easily be gathering for a future attack. I'm sorry if I sound harsh, but you have given me no real reason to trust you at this point. ANd as for the two members of your race which we met... they were not exactly the best representatives of your race." The Leanorians looked at Pegasus and then to the android, "There are no reports of any Greyknights ever existing." One of them said, "Pegasus, is there something we should know?" Pegasus shook his head, "I have no reports on any Redemption of Nightshade ever existing in Greywatch. The only other place to check may be the national archives but that is a risk with our guest here." The other Leanorian nodded, "In that case we are done here. There is no need of further information, there's a small chance you would give it to us if we asked." Pegasus stood up, "Unfortunant. Tell your superiors we wish to speak to a true delegate, one who may be more willing to talk about your race more openly."

Unit 505221 regarded Pegasus without expression. "I am not authorized to disclose classified information. It is not within my need-to-know basis at this time. I apologize if this offends you. You, in turn, have not told me what you know of us. "Very little" is not sufficient. Logically, we are both in the position of not wishing to let the other know how much we know of them. However, I note this response came from a Drone, and I am not authorized to disclose Intelligence data on your nation. I can arrange for a face-to-face meeting between a properly briefed biological kitsune with neither I nor a Drone present, so the representatives can be more candid. Shall I do this?" The android's answer was without rancor or indignity, just the same monotone it had used throughout.

Pegasus nodded, "Yes, perhaps that is best. And I'm sorry if the 'veyr little' was not sufficient enough but it means what it means. Limited contact with your race has yielded very little, at this moment, we have not actually bothered to give you an actual place in our archives. So little is known about your people that you are regarded as more of an anomoly than anything else, a rarity that is likely not to be seen twice. Only myself, the council, and a handful of others know of your existance. There is almost no information on your way of life, tech levels, or anything thing else for that matter." A Lenaorian nodded, "Yes, perhaps another candidate is best. And forgive the Drone, it is meant more as a bodyguard, I feel someone else has been listening in on this conversation. Next time we shall use our own bodyguards, no those of the Forbidden..." Pegasus nodded, "We will await you to contact your leaders."

"We will await you to contact your leaders."
"It has been done." said Unit 505221. "My location has been tagged and a shuttle will be appearing eight miles outside of high orbit of Lanoria...now." The kitsune android stood. "This concludes our meeting. A diplomat will be arriving here once the shuttle has been issued proper authorization. Best wishes to you." Unit 505221 bowed, turned, and strode out the door. He climbed into his scout and lifted off, making room for the incoming shuttle (http://www.revell.de/starwars/reqRessources/img/produkte/abb_imperialShuttle.jpg). The scout turned, nose pointing to the sky, and shot away, breaching the atmosphere within seconds and blasting away into space, passing the Worldslayer once more and darting out into deep space.

There was a delay of several seconds before the shuttle's ramp lowered easily and a single kitsune walked down it with silent tread. The Ambassador's hair and fur was a shocking white, but he was nevertheless young and spry, barely in his thirties. Orange eyes looked warmly out of a tanned face, indicating that this was a kitsune not of a violent or hostile demeanor. He wore deep purple and black robes which stretched down to just cover his feet without trailing on the ground, and his only visible armament was a white katana on his hip. His arms were folded inside his long robes and he looked around the area with interest, breathing in the air and already showing more life in the first six seconds than Unit 505221 had the entire time he had been there.

The two Leanorians had followed the android out and greeted the new diplomat who had landed. They led him inside, to the same room but this time the door did not open, "You may need to wait," one of them said, "Pegasus is currently in another meeting." Inside the door one could hear the faint sound of two people conversing.
"Care to explain why you Drone got up in arms so fast?"
"Take no offense, it was simple protocol."
"Yours, not mine."
"So far, these 'Kitsune' have come into more contact with us than anyone else; therefore, we find we should be the ones to handle talks with them."
"A fact that you didn't bother to tell me or the council. Do not forget your place, you are not diplomats in Greywatch, you never have been."
"No, we make your weapons and collect information, and it's quite clear that they are no more willing to open up than we are."
"I do hope by 'we' you specifically mean you." There was a slight laughter from a voice that was no Pegasus's. The Leanorians listened intently, they didn't reconize the second voice.
"Yes, well, we also wish to protect Greywatch. We will have to reformat many of our technologies, we can't have the Kitsune trying to steal our schematics and attacking us now can we?"
"You truly believe it'll come to that?"
"We never trust anyone who would send an information collector, especially an information collector that would not give information in return."
"You treat this like a war..."
"It is a war, a war of information. A war we're losing."
"Fine then, what exactly do you want?"
"I want to be here when the kitsune comes in, I believe he's at the door, it's rude to keep someone waiting. The Leanorians will have to stay outside, it will be only the three of us... you have no problems with that."
"I suppose I can't have any problems with that."
"Even if you did it would change anything..." Pegasus grumbled as the guest said this.
"Alright, come in."
The door opened, the Drone was gone and in its place was a stocky bald man. He had large red sacks under his green eyes and a smile that would scare most people. He was dressed in a black robe and smiled at those standin gat the door, "Well? Come in, come in." He said in a cheerful voice. Pegasus looked uncomfortable but took his seat and said nothing more.

The Ambassador had heard everything quite easily, but he did not show it. He did not like the way the standing man was looking at him; he could tell whoever he was, he was not to be trusted.
The kitsune stepped into the room and bowed once to both men equally. "I am Ambassador Vulpe, delegate from the Kitsune Empire of Xiscapia," he said smoothly straightening up, mind puzzling over what he had heard. "I must apologize for the android. It is not within their programming to give out any information that has not been cleared before hand by their Commander." Representative from a weapons manufacturing company, probably. But he sounds and acts more like an official from a different government branch...except he is not apparently government.
What is going on?

"Yes well, I understand, Drones act very much the same way." Said Pegasus. The other man took a seat and looked only forward, "Greetings, I am here partly due to the android inquiring about a certain Silvertooth and Nightshade Rose." And due to the fact that you could pose a threat to the security of my employers.... The man thought to himself as he took a metal clipboard out from within his robe and laid it on the table. He then took out a small device no bigger than a modern day iPod, "This is what the Council knows of these two." He pushed a button the device and a hologram projection activated. It showed as the forces of chaos were storming a Greywatch encampment and the two Kitsune watching as the Greywatch forces held them back. In truth, it was a recording from the commanding officer's helmet, which had a built in camera. Pegasus took the clipboard, it had some documents, many of them censored. It aslo had pictures of the two Xiscapians that Greywatch forces had met during the chaos incident.
"As you can see, those two disappeared, we also recieved news that they talked about something in private with another force on the planet at the time. Belkaros was the name if I remember correctly." Pegasus butted in, "What I want to know is what these Greyknights are. I've heard legends about them but to my knowledge no such thing exists today. And from our files files state that this has been our only contact with you as of yet." He was speaking to both the Kitsune and to the FM agent. Pegasus and the other man had completely different agendas and that was quite clear by the differences in their attitudes.
The other man shook his head, "Calaveras, North Calaveras," he muttered. Pegasus looked over, puzzled, "What?" The man shook his head again, "Nothing. I'm sorry for being so blunt and rude, my name is Anderson. The main reason why I was here was to find out exactly how much contact you have had with Greywatch, we've only reached out to a few people and it seems interesting that you demonstrate so much knowledge about us when we know so little about you." Pegasus nodded, "Yes, that has been my interest as well..."
The man smiled and looked at Pegasus briefly, They know nothing... it would be best to keep it that way. I also have to know how far the Forbidden Ministry's name has spread, I know the Drones use it but no one really seems to know what we are.... yet. Hopefully these Xiscapians are as in the dark as my friend here... That would be beneficial. Of course.... I'll have to let this one ask questions in return... but that will be no problem. Even when someone is brutaly honest about the Forbidden Ministry our purpose is obscured.
Pegasus returned the glance with a quizzical look, Just what the hell is their game? I hate being left in the dark....

Vulpe took the seat the android had vacated, listening without speaking. Belkaros...what the hell? What arrangements could they have had with them, if any? I must get in contact with the commander they spoke to as soon as I get the chance. And what of Calaverias? Calaverias is under Xiscapian control. So far as I know the only contact between Calaverias and Greywatch was though Redemption...if you call a lab's worth of murdered scientists contact. And what about what's happening right now, outside the Dolosus System? Those are Greywatch forces, we've made contact, yet he says nothing of it.
"We have our own activate Intelligence forces," said Vulpe carefully in answer. "We like to be...updated, on situations. But you have neglected to mention our other contact." He looked from one man to the other. They are not the same, they are working for different objectives, for different people. They are not working together, who is that other man?
He played with letting them figure that one out, but decided it would be detrmintal to his purpose for being here. "The large object outside of the Dolosus star system appeared to attract the attention of Greywatch. Is this not so?" He said nothing of Silvertooth or Nightshade. These people did not know where they were, and they didn't need to know anything more about the twins than they already knew.

"Large object?" Pegasus said with confusion. The other man nodded, "The ship your refering to had its PSR and SCN disabled as Greywatch was updating and improving some of the systems. The only reason I know of that ship is because the Drones have been sending us information, though I'm sure you already know about that." Pegasus looked over, "Wait, we have another contact with them?" Anderson nodded, "Yes, I haven't updated the councilof it yet as we at the FM have obtained very little. I do believe the captain of the vessel sent a transmission pulse, it should be here within a day or two." Pegasus nodded, "I see. Wait, what information do you have?" Anderson shook his head, "Other than a massive object about to fly into Xiscapian territory, not much, there are currently three teams on board the craft, if I am not mistaken. Nothing has been found as of yet." Pegasus smiled, "So even the Forbidden don't have much to go on as of yet?" Anderson nodded, "That is correct. The Drones can only give so much information you know, but that is not the current concern." Pegasus nodded in return, "Agreed," he turned to the Xiscapian, "I must ask you this, just how often have our to races met. And which species do you actually know about at this point? Just so I have an idea of what may be best to cover, assuming there is anything else you'd like to know about Greywatch." Anderson said nothing, he was thinking about what the Xiscapian had said about being updated. He smiled and stood up, "Well, that is really all I needed to know. Thank you and goodbye." He left promptly, Pegasus didn't say a word and continued looking at the Xiscapian.

Vulpe watched the man go. So even the Forbidden don't have much to go on as of yet...What does that mean?
"We have met Drones, the humans obviously, and of the course the Leanorians. We have also heard of these Elden beings, but we have never met one. Aside from the two already mentioned, the Kitsune Empire is not aware of any other contacts between our nations. I would like to know more of the Elden, and who or what exactly these Kiixori are, and what the FM is." Vulpe allowed himself to relax slightly, but he kept his guard up. New races could be...strange, especially the non-humanoid. But the other man, Anderson, seemed to know more than the man he was speaking with now. What was his name? Ah, yes, Pegasus. For some reason he'd not seen fit to, or forgotten, to introduce himself, but Vulpe assumed that this was who the Leanorian outside had been speaking of.

Pegasus nodded, "Of course, of course. Ah, how rude of me, I must not have told you my name. It's Pegasus, senior diplomat of the Greywatch Empire and represetative of the Council." The two Leanorians entered the room and took the device and the clipboard that Anderson had left behind. Pegasus nodded to them, "Yes... well then, I must apologize about that. The FM has random bursts of selective patriotism from time to time and sometimes act a little... paranoid. Especially when they feel someone knows to much. It's part of the reason that I myself had not heard some of the information Anderson was talking about, the FM are very... secretive, even towards us." He sighed.
"But yes, on the topic of the FM, which was one of your questions; the FM is the Forbidden Ministry, which if you've come into contact with the Drones, I'm sure you've heard of. As for the Elden, you've met the humans and the Leanorians, the Elden are our genetic ancestors. I can assume your next question may be why two races have such different characteristics when they share the same genetic past. Truth be told, we're not sure, the Leanorians also have retained more of their cryptic abilies, which I'm sure you must know about. There are only a handful of Elden left, they are practically immortal and thousands of years old. Anywhere from 3 to 7 thousand years of age from what I've heard." Pegasus stopped for a moment and pulled a data pad from his white suit.
He tapped an few buttons and the device came to life. On the screen, which was about the size of one's palm, was an image of a insectoid like creature. It was plated in a greenish exoskeleton and had several arms, each one had spine jutting from it, it also had plasma pistol in each of its 'hands.' It looked sleek yet bulky, like some kind of monster, "That, is a Kiioxri. One of them at least. There are multiple species, many of which, as your android probably found out, are quite hostile and then some."
Pegasus closed his eyes for a brief moment in order to relax, "Now, going back to your inquiry as to the Elden..." he opened his eyes, "I cannot speak for them. Elden speak for themselves, I can possibly take you to some of them but whether they wish to talk to you is up to them." The Leanorian, who had actually been at the door listening quietly, walked in smiling, "We can arrange such a meeting." Their tones had changed, they weren't as upbeat as before and were now much more serious, "Like Pegasus said, there's no guarantee they'll actually speak to you but we do know where they are. At least the one's on this world." Pegasus took this moment to insert one more bit of information, "The Elden achieved interplanetary travel long ago. We don't know when, but we've found them on several planets that we've incorporated into the Empire. Keep that in mind please, these beings are very old."

Old... thought Vulpe. They have no idea. Greywatch really has had virtually no contact with the rest of the galaxy, has it? The Elden are ancient, by our standards... even their youngest are at least twice as old as even the oldest kitsune in recorded history. Yes, there are those who are older...the Xa, the Muri, some of the Grendel's perhaps...but they are immortal. And these cryptic abilities...really are, aren't they? It's not the Force, not Chaos or Blessed Powers or magic, it's something else, technology or supernatural or some blend of the two, who can tell?
"We may have come across the Kiioxri, or some variant of them, before." murmured Vulpe. Not in his lifetime perhaps, but the parts of Xiscapian history which were not entirely undocumented were recorded very carefully. "I understand about the Elden. If they wish to remain reclusive, so be it. I will respect their privacy. It is very strange that you and the Leanorians have the same genetic history, but not entirely unheard of. The Kitsune Empire has done it's own investigation of our past and that of other similar races in the galaxy, and it is believed some species must be offshoots or have roots in others. Naturally, evolution will all go it's own way. But..." he steepled his fingers, staring over them to Pegasus. "What is the exact nature of the Forbidden Ministry? Are they some sort of Intelligence branch, or covert operations, of Greywatch? And is it possible for me to meet with a representative from the Kiioxri to apologize for our unintentional breach of their space?"

Pegasus nodded, "I see you are very interested in the Forbidden Ministry. Simply put, they are one of the organizations that is loosely tied into our government. They created the Drones amoung other things.... They are classified as a 'Shadow Weapons' group. Essentially handling much of the dirty business the Greywatch council would not normally get involved in. They handle a lot of things; covert operations, information gathering, weapons creation... in some cases I've heard they even have trained assassins which are used to kill important enemy officers during wars." Pegasus turned his head away, "I am only a diplomat, it is not my business to meddle and dig up information about them. If they have something to say, they'll say it." Pegasus rose from his seat, "Now if you wish to meet an Elden we can go visit them now. And you don't need to apologize to the Kiixori, all of that was taken care of shortly after your android was brought here."

Vulpe stood also. "I believe the Kitsune Empire has actually had more contact with the agents of the Forbidden Ministry that Greywatch itself, but we never knew exactly who they were or what they did. I see now. So an Elden has agreed to speak with me? I am honored he has decided to accept my request."

One of the Leanorian from before came in, "Well, two actually," She said with a smile. Pegasus raised an eyebrow, "Oho, they're feeling generous today. Well then, let's not keep them waiting." The Leanorian nodded and the two were led to a small hovercraft just outside the facility.
After getting onboard they had about a ten minute ride to an ancient white stone structure, a wall. It was massive to say the very least, ten kilometers in diameter. There were intrecate designs carved into the stone and tapastries hang from the top of it. There was only one entrance and the group was led inside. On the other side of the wall was a village, a small one to say the least, houses and huts dotted the area inside. The vehicle stopped and they all exited, the Leanorian looked to the Xiscapian, "There are only fifty Elden here." She then addressed both of them, "I will fetch them, please wait here." She quickly ran off to find the two men, the other Leanorian smiled, "Pegasus, you've not been here have you?" Pegasus shook his head, "No, I've never even seen this place on sensors from orbit." The Leanorian laughed, "The Elden can mask the presence of their sancuaries from even the most advanced scanners, we Leanorian were fortunate to learn so much from them." Pegasus nodded, "Such is the cryptic ability."
The other Leanorian came back quickly with two Elden following her. One was dressed in black cloth and leather armor, he had short white hair and black goggles masking his eyes. He also wore a red scarf which kept the lower part of his face hidden. He was about 5'8" and looked a little skinny. The other was only wearing a pair of brown pants. He wore some shades and not much else, his black hair was very short. He was muscular and taller than the other Elden next to him, he also looked like he hadnt shaved in a week.
"Here they are," said the Leanorian. The two nodded, "I am Ghost," said the one with white hair. "And I am called Stonin," said the one with the black hair. Pegasus looked at the two, Wow, I can't wait to find out what these guys are capable of. "Um, yes. Grettings, my friends... we humbly asked you here because-" Ghost cut Pegasus off, "We know, the Leanorians told us everything. Grettings Xiscapian." Stonin bowed slightly, "Hello, young one." Pegasus smiled, "Well I suppose I'll let you three talk."

"Greetings Xiscapian."
"Hello, young one."
Vulpe bowed deeply, lower than he had for Pegasus or Anderson. "Thank you for agreeing to meet me," he smiled in a friendly way, straightening up, "my name is Vulpe, Ambassador from the Kitsune Empire of Xiscapia. The Kitsune Empire has had little contact with Greywatch, but enough that we know of your race, the Elden. To put it bluntly, I am on a fact finding mission where it concerns you. We wish to know more about the Elden, as we do every race and people that calls Greywatch home, before we make any decision concerning the relationship between the Empire and Greywatch. Naturally I will answer any questions you have about the kitsune race that I know and am authorized to, and in turn I will not press you to tell me anything you do not wish to. Sound fair?" He seemed to be mainly speaking to the one who called himself Stonin, but the fact that he could not see the eyes of either being made him somewhat uncomfortable. Even if they were not open in words or actions, diplomats and emissary's should not conceal their features. Masks and helmets were for the concealment of the identity of spies and the dehumanizing of soldiers on the battlefield, not relations meetings.

Stonin nodded, "You may ask first. As I'm sure you know, we are old, and we're not planning to go anywhere soon." Ghost nodded as well, "Yes, we have plenty of time. And unlike many of the other Elden we have much to teach and much to learn." Pegasus smile, At least they're friendly. Ghost was a little more quiet than Stonin, he was actually an assassin, an Elden assassin that on rare occassions did missions for Greywatch. Some would wonder why, the truth was, he had been an assassin since he was ten years old, and old habits die hard. Stonin smiled, "I'm sorry we aren't properly dressed but we Elden simply do as we please for the most part. Not to be rude, it's just who we are. You may ask us any question and we shall answer to the best of our knowledge and as long as it does not cross any limits."

"You do as you please?" Vulpe chuckled. "What race doesn't? I wish to know: What is the relationship between the Elden race and Greywatch? I know about these "cryptic abilities" that many field agents Xiscapians have encountered display, and apparently they stem from you. Are you mentors of a sort, teachers? Or is that only a select few who choose to share their knowledge and skills?"

Stonin laughed, "Our relationship is very... well we have little dealings with Greywatch, I thought Pegasus would have told you that." Pegasus smiled, "Must have forgotten." Ghost nodded his head, "Most of us like to be isolationist, others actually do things here and there for the government to raise our standing a little. It's kinda a mix to be honest, but you'll find a majority of the Elden don't bother mingling with the other races." Stonin nodded to Ghost's explanation, "And the Cryptic abilities, you said you'd come into contact with those who possessed it? If that's the case I thought you'd already know it's 'genetic,' it's not something to be taught,. You're born with it, from there you must refine it. My companion and I could show you what we mean." Ghost nodded, "Yes we could. You are looking at two Elden who have actually managed to refine their abilities to a great extent. Stonin more than I, but I'm still very far ahead of some of the other Elden." Pegasus smiled, "Perhaps a demonstration is in order?" Stonin smiled back to him, "Well a demonstration can come when Vulpe wishes it, at the moment I can give an example. This wall around you... this is my work, all of it. I did this alone."

Vulpe looked at the wall. He looked to Stonin, to see if he was joking. Evidently not. He looked back to the wall again. "I see." he said weakly. Vulpe knew about magic, and the power of the Force, and so on and so forth. But he didn't know anyone who had actually built a section of a structure by themselves using such abilities. Especially not part of such a huge building.
"But," Vulpe recovered, "you said the Cryptic ability is genetic. These Drones have it, and they are machines. Or clones. Or something." He frowned. "How long did it take you to build," he waved his hand to show he meant the wall, "this?"
The Kitsune Empire was very, very interested in Cryptic abilities. Something which could only be canceled out or neutralized by another use of itself against it could be invaluable. Of course, it was not their chief, nor only reason for initiating contact with Greywatch, but it was definitely a point of interest.

Pegasus smiled, "The process of Drones is not completely known to anyone outside the FM but from what we've heard they use the blood of Eldens. They don't kill them, but they use their blood." Ghost shook his head, "More than that, not only blood. The Drones are not machines, nor are they clones, they are an artificial being that is a physical representation of the Cryptic element in itself. You've noticed some have tattoos? And on that note they all look inhuman and roughly the same? They are a complex creaturebest labled as 'man-made demons."
Stonin shook his head with a smile, "Please, let us not pursue the topic of Drones further. You can't really get a clear answer unless you're talking straight to the Forbidden Ministry, just the name should give you a hint on why they are so secretive." He looked up at the wall, "You were wondering how I built this? Well as my name would suggest, Stonin, I am a master of stone. I can manipulate the earth is ways many people could never imagine. This wall took took me a few days. The first step was simply raising the earth while making sure the ground beneath it remained intact. I couldn't have this thing falling back into the ground now could I? Then came the shaping, you see, I don't carve away at the rock to shape it, I just make it denser. Then I added all the decorative carvings on it." He smiled and then looked to Ghost. Ghost looked at him and then at Vulpe and sighed, "Yes, I did the designs for the tapestries handing on the wall..." Stonin laughed, "My friend here used to be an assassin, who would've guess he could weave threads as well as his cryptic abilities?"
Pegasus looked to Vulpe, "I'm sure Stonin would be willing to show you how." Stonin smiled, "Indeed I would." Ghost smirked underneath his scarf before looking up at the sky, Dammit, another hour or two and it'll be noon... either I'll have to seriously crank up my cryption or I'll have to take some of this stuff off.... Lanoria was actually in summer at the moment. The mornings, like this one, were nice but as it neared noon the area was going to experience a bit of a heatwave, not something someone would want to be outside for. Especially someone dressed the way Ghost was, he'd been using his cryptic ability to keep the air around his body at a comfortable temperature but standing out at noon in summer on Lanoria was just a stupid thing to do. Only the Leanorians themselves and a handful of the Elden inhabitants were used to it, at least, to the best of everyone's knowledge.

Vulpe listened quietly. The equal rights groups in Allied space will have something to say about 'man-made demons.' Obviously the Drones are sentient, but they are considered expendable, and more than that are either born or conditioned to believe it themselves. But I am not here to discuss ethics, and for now it seems they are rather closed on the subject...
"Fascinating," he murmured aloud. "It would take most of our rock craftsmen and stone builders much longer to achieve the same effect. The tapestries," he nodded to Ghost, "are beautiful, but do they depict scenes or tell a story, or bear symbols for something, or are they only decoration?"

"Mainly decoration." Ghost said quietly, "A few of them bear the symbols of the seasons." He pointed to a large blue one with a white flame, "That is winter." He then pointed to another that was on the other side of the complex, it depicted a lush green field of flowers with a sun high in the sky, "That is summer." He then pointed to one depicting much red, brown, yellow, and orange, the colors were vibrant enough to make Pegasus think fore a moment he was loking into a fire, "That is autumn," Ghost said. He then pointed to a picture a large tree, there was some snow around the trees roots, "That is spring." Stonin smiled, "Ghost has a lot of time on his hands."

Vulpe nodded. "The seasons of Ice, Fire, Death and Life." he said distantly. "Each as Qonn would form them for the blessed of his Covenant after the Long Voyage in the Exodus World...." He stared at the tapestries, looking at them but no seeing. Then he shook his head abruptly with an apologetic smile. "I'm sorry, just recalling some scripture. So this place is your home?"

Pegasus raised an eyebrow, "That's very interesting, I'd love to hear more about it some time. Can I assume winter is ice, summer is fire, spring is life, and autumn is death?" Ghost said nothing to this but Stonin smiled, "Interesting indeed. Pegasus, where did you find this one?" Pegasus laughed, "They came to us while looking for other civilizations." Stonin nodded, "I feel there are many Elden who would love to read through this scripture."

Vulpe nodded. "Exactly right. It comes from the Ancient Texts, or as many outsiders know it, the Book of Qonn: Xiscapia's religious book. I'm no scholar or historian, but I do know the basic facts about it. The reason I wanted to know if you were teachers is because that is what the priests in kitsune religion are. They possess supernatural abilities, as blessed by Qonn, our god, and instruct others to refine and hone their own skills. Aside from being the moral compass of our society, they are also the historians, as the Ancient Texts document events and people thousands of years into the past. There is a lengthy, detailed tale which is almost universally accepted as the beginnings of the Xiscapians." He cocked his head slightly. "Would you like to hear it? And, of course, I'm sure the Elden have mythology or ancient stories of their own to share."

Stonin smiled, "The Elden believe that the Gods died. When this event happened, life was created. One of those beings that were created were the wraiths... the first Cryptic users. Ancient beings that possessed supernatural abilities..." Ghost continued, "We believe that 'souls' or life force is reprocessed through a never ending chain. Sometimes, a soul does not make it to a body and becomes a wraith, a powerful being that possesses the rawest form of cryptic abilities..." Stonin then took over, "Essentially, we are decendants of beings known as Twilight Demons. Said demons themselves are decendants of the Wraiths. A clear path of cryption... every new wielding race has processed it alittle more. The first could move objects without touching them, crush things from a distant and steal souls... to name a few of the aiblities. The second used cryption for destruction, the unlocked the abilities of fire, water, earth, and air. Even later on, newer demons found that the best abilities were those that followed: fire, darkness, and ice. Then came some of the first Elden, we don't exactly know our ture origins but we further developed cryption, we found many more things could be manipulated."
Ghost nodded, "We created Encryption and refined Cryption even more. We allowed ourselves to use lightning, metal, and even plant-life, or wood." The Leanorians smiled, "And we are the next one's on the chain, we have further developed cryption and encryption to the point where we can use 'light' energy. We have become powerful healers amoung other things." Ghost looked over at Stonin and then back at Vulpe, "If you're willing to share your knowledge, we are willing to share more of ours."

Vulpe listened. A chain of beings gifted with power, refining and honing and discovering new ways to use it with every new race and generation. They had been doing this for a long, long time. Hundreds of thousands, maybe even millions of years. What would the next decade bring? He wondered as to their telling of creation. There were many, many stories of creation, all conflicting, some telling of gods, some of stars, some of demons and angels and spirits.
"I don't know about where we all ultimately came from," he bowed his head slightly with a bemused smile, "but I do know our own story of creation."

"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 the a mysterious force repelled him, throwing him back into the forest. Terrified, the scout went back and told all of the 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 it's 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 starcraft, 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 starcraft 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 have decedents living on today. Only a few years ago did we rediscover 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 realspace 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."

Vulpe smiled grimly. "Xiscapia has never started a war, but it does finish them."

Stonin and Ghost actually seated themselves as Vulpe spoke, they listened intently to his words and were sure to remember them. This race knew their history well, if only the Elden had been there to see the kitsune develope, what a sight it would have been. When he finished, Ghost and Stonin looked to each other, both of them having the same thoughts. They rose to their feet and Stonin spoke, "That is quite an... interesting history. It seems you too have come into contact with demons. You share a much similar path to our own, taking the technology of your enemies and incorporating into something you can use against them." Ghost looked at Stonin for a moment before speaking, "There are many things we could show you over time.... the Elden Archives are amoung some of the things... but for the moment, I feel a full demonstration of the Cryptic abilities are in order."

Vulpe nodded. "I would like to see what you can do. Field reports have been sketchy at best, of what Cryptic abilities are and do, and I believe we have only seen a fraction of the full power, if this wall is any indication. Please, go ahead." He stepped back a foot, watching Ghost and Stonin carefully.

Stonin smiled, a few small pepples lifted beside him. The the ground itself began to crack and larger chunks the size of his head were floating in the air. "This is the basic form, only the very beginning. Please, follow me outside, where the power only gets greater." Ghost laughed, "He needs his space." They were all led outside, about five minutes away from the Elden village. Stonin made sure to back away from the others, the floating chunks of earth had followed him. "Now then..." He grunted and lifted his hands in the air. Behind him was a sight that most people would never see, the ground behind him exploded and there was a towering wave, much like a tidal wave, of solid rock looming over the group. "By the dead gods..." Muttered Pegasus. Stonin continued smiling as the wave literally held over them, "I still haven't even shown you fluid earth!" The wave came down behind and around them but rather than smash into the ground it simple melded into it. A few moments later the very earth at there feet became almost like liquid, it was as if they were all standing on water for a few seconds. It was solid but definately fluidic in nature, "I can manipulate the earth in ways people could never possibly imagine. And there is still more... but enough for now." The ground returned to its normal state of being.
Ghost then took Stonin's place, "Sorry, I'm not as impressive. But in my line of work, I don't need to be." He held out his hand, fingers pointing at Vulpe, around them appeared ice, solid and sharp, like claws. He then face a rock that was near them and with a simple flick of his hand sent the sharps into, and straight through, the rock. "Nothing is harder than Cryptic Ice, nothing." He then laughed as a slight breeze came, his body began to break into small black feathers until there was simply a cloud of them in the air. In a second the feathers disapeared and Ghost materialized from Vulpe's very shadow, "This is the power of darkness. This is demonic cryption. The opposite of that the Leanorians wield; very rare, very hard to use, very powerful. Sorry if I startled you."

Vulpe remained silent and unimpressed until Stonin lifted his hands and the stones spewed from the ground, erecting into a massive, solid barrier. Vulpe stepped back, mouth slightly open and exposing his sharp, pointed teeth, staring upwards to see the top. When it came down around them he crouched slightly, as if to protect himself from the falling rock, and straightened up a moment later, embarrassed. At first he didn't notice the liquid ground, but he took a small step and nearly stumbled, regaining his balance instantly, kneeling and tracing a finger along the "fluid earth."

Then he stood and watched Ghost. The ice from the hand was interesting enough, but nothing, aside from the actual formation of said ice, that couldn't be done by a skilled priest or Assassin. He watched without expression as the Elden began to break into pieces before flowing away into a swirling mass. When the other being appeared in his shadow, though, Vulpe actually jumped, hand on the hilt of his sword, spinning to face him. His Force sense had accurately tracked everything that had happened up until the point Ghost vanished, and then...the Elden had appeared behind him without warning. With a chill Vulpe realized that if Ghost had wanted to, he could have killed him easily while his back was turned.

"Impressive," he managed, taking a step away from Ghost. "I have never seen better, and any more power is either that of myth or of the gods. You are both obviously very skilled." He gave a slight bow to both, a sign of recognition. "Ghost, you said that power was...demonic cryption, the opposite of what the Leanorians use. What is it that they have that is so different?"

"I slip into shadows, I can make shadow actual physical entities and kill people with them. The thing you saw with the feathers, in battle I've changed them into kunai and unleashed a barrage on my enemies... Demonic Cryption is simply saying, you're using the cryption that belonged to ancient demons. Remember fire, darkness, and ice? I am primarily darkness and ice, thus I'm using the demonic forms of Cryption. I can't show you all my abilities though, think about it. I'm ice and darkness on a world of light and heat, I'm weak here. The Leanorians smiled, one of them hugged Ghost, much to his own discomfort, "Don't worry, you can show him another time." She was larger than Ghost, by at least a foot, and strong enough to lift him off the ground if she wanted to. She smiled at Vulpe, "If I didn't say so before, I'm Violet and my sister there is Kayla. Our abilities are different because we focus more on encryptive arts. We heal and bless our aliies. If we fight demons, we can purge them by using light energies... whereas Ghost surronds his enemies in darkness and shadow and unleashes what some may think of as curses." Kayla nodded, "We're two opposites. If we were to fight in a nuetral area, without anything to make our skills more powerful, we'd most likely be equals."

Vulpe stared at Violet for a moment before starting slightly, mentally shaking his head. This place and these people are getting to me...how is it everyone is so different, but everywhere we go we find these disturbing little similarities, or worse, near identical things. These Leanorians and the Alumina, it's way too close to be a coincidence. We all must have come from some single form, or place, or being...but what, or where, or who...
This is not the time.
"So on one side, darkness and ice. On the other, light and fire. One to kill and destroy, the other to heal and protect. Balance...this is a good thing, the universe is all about balance and the equality of forces. You compliment each other well with your power." Vulpe nodded, "I wonder if you have ever seen this (http://ugandaninsomniac.files.wordpress.com/2008/05/ying-yang.jpg) symbol before?" He produced a small amulet from his robes, holding it out in his palm for their examination.

Ghost and Violet, who seemed to be the ones this would most concern, looked at the amulet carefully. "Sorry, unfortunantly not." Said Ghost. Violet shook her head, "Nor have I, sister?" Kayla looked at the amulet, so too did Stonin and Pegasus, all were unaware of where it might have come from, but all collectively figured out what it meant. Kayla spoke, "Balance, I assume?" The others nodded and went back to their previous positions. Ghost looked at Vulpe and pulled off his goggles, revealing two silvery eyes that almost seemed to blankly stare forward. "Yes, we know of balance. But balance is not fire and light to ice and darkness. Our balance is Cryption to Encryption, attack and defense respectively." Violet nodded and let go of Ghost, "A fire can keep you warm on a cold night or it can burn down a forest. Light can heal your wounds but it can also purge you enemies." Stonin tilted his head before speaking, "Ice can make solid wepaons for killing, or it can cool you down whilest you where leather armor in the sun." He spoke with a smile and looked at Ghost, Ghost gave him a slight glance. Stonin continued, "Darkness could entangle you and kill you, but at the same time, the way Ghost got behind... he could flee a group of enemies using the same tactic." Pegasus nodded, "Everything has balance... It took the Elden to find that." Ghost and Stonin smiled to this, they weren't usually complimented.

Vulpe nodded, his hand closing over the amulet and drawing it back inside of his robes. "That is the symbol of Qonn, and to kitsune at least, it means Balance. But it is more than that. You noticed how the white part had a dot of black, and vice versa? That represents the knowledge that there is a little light and and a little darkness within all of us. Good and Evil, as conceptional as they are, are not total opposites, they are not matter and antimatter. We believe they are different perspectives, looking at a person or situation internally or externally. All of us have the power to do either, and that is the greatest Balance we know." He smiled softly.

The group nodded to this very respectfully. Ghost put his goggles back on and loosened his scarf, "If you don't mind," he started, looking up at the sky, "We should move. Things are about to get very hot." The two Leanorians nodded in agreement, Violet looked to the Elden, "Thank you for your time," she said gently and respectfuly. Stonin and Ghost nodded, a visible smile on Stonin's rough face, "Yes.... I feel I must be getting back to my work." Ghost looked over at Pegasus, "Like my friend here said. If you need anything further, please say so now." Pegasus shook his head, "Ask our guest." Ghost looked to Vulpe, "Well?" Kayla looked at Ghost, He's right... there are not many creatures that can withstand the heat at noon. We'll need to leave soon.

"Well?"
"No," Vulpe shook his head. "I have no further questions. Thank you for your time and coming out here to meet me and your openness in showing your abilities. I am very grateful." He bowed.

"No problem at all." Ghost said as he turned to walk off, Stonin followed but shot one last look at Vulpe, "Well, take care of yourself, and stay cool." The two were quick to get beck to their shelter. The transport they'd used before pulled up to them, Pegasus looked to Vulpe, "Well, I suppose that's all the Elden really have to say. So where to next, there's a Leanorian city not too far from here, it would probably be a good stop." The two Leanorians smiled at Pegasus, "Maybe you should show him the marketplace," said Violet. "If it isn't too crowded," added Kayla. Pegasus nodded, "Well that does sound like a good idea... how about it Vulpe? The transport can have us there in about ten minutes."

Vulpe nodded. "I am at your whim to wherever you want to take me, but that sounds ideal. I think the Leanorians hold special interest to some back at my home, and among others of our allies. You," he gestured to Kayla and Violet in turn, "bear striking physical resemblance to one of the races we know. However, they are distinctly more cat-like, while it is obvious you are anthropomorphic lionesses, respectively."

Violet and Kayla looked to Vulpe as they entered the vehicle, "Really? We've interested some people on your world? I had know idea we were so well known," Said Violet with a smile. "We've gotten the anthro-lion thing a lot, but we'd rather not be compared to our four-legged counterparts..." Added Kayla. Pegasus gave a slight, awkward smile, "Well then, to the marketplace." After Vulpe had gotten in the vehicle sped off to a Leanorian city. One wouldn't be able to tell from first glance, it looked like a massive collection of rocks and caves. After the vehicle entered a large gate, it spent about a minut going through a dark cave before emerging on the other side. It was now on a massive overlook, below lay the gleeming, silvery, Leanorian structures. There were also several tranditional stone structures as well. There were statues of famous Leanorian warriors and priestesses. The most noteable feature being the massive float garden which maintained its levatation due to large amounts of Cryptic energy in the rock. Ancient runes decorated the inside walls as well as reliefs and tapestries. It was a massive culture center. The back of the vehicle opened up, Pegasus steeped out, "This, Vuple, is a sight you may wish to see."

"This, Vuple, is a sight you may wish to see."
As Vulpe stood and ducked outside the transport his eye was drawn first to the silver buildings in the valley below them. They shone in the daylight, so after a moment or so he was forced to look away. Doing this caused the floating gardens to swing into view, and he spent some time examining them from afar. He reached out tentatively with his limited Force power and found what was holding them up. Cryptic energy...but from where? Is someone levitating them, or is there some generator hidden away some place spreading a field?
"That's amazing," Vulpe breathed, looking back down to the city. "What are the stone structures down there? Temples or old constructs that need to be preserved?"

Kayla pointed to the stone structures, "Indeed, those are some of our older structures. The traditional ones, they look so well maintained because some people still live in them." She smiled, "Farms, simple shelters, old temples, housing for the Elders, and a good deal of the marketplace is located down there. The silvery buildings are the more recent structures..." Pegasus coughed, "The structures that were set up when humans arrived here to be more specific. Apartment complexs, shopping centers... that kind of stuff, though we were able to pass a law stating that Greywatch coporations could NOT under any circumstances relocate their headquarters here. We wanted to keep at least a little of the tradition in this place." Violet gave Pegasus a hug, "Well the new additions aren't bad. They're different, but they still give the Leanorians options." Kayla continued, "Indeed, there are also 'international schools.' There are many good things that came with the human arrival to this world." Kayla smiled now, "You must be wondering about that." She said as she pointed to the floating garden. "Tell me, your race. They have a special ability... I can tell just by looking at you. Your energy is different. Can you detect something about the garden?"

Vulpe watched Violent hug Pegasus somewhat uncomfortably. Affectionate, aren't they? In general kitsune didn't go out for physical contact much unless those touching were either lovers, very close, or playing some kind of sport. It wasn't disturbing, or even weird, it was just...odd.
"Tell me, your race. They have a special ability... I can tell just by looking at you. Your energy is different. Can you detect something about the garden?"
"I can only find that it's being held up by supernatural means. No force field, vents or sonic emitters are supporting the garden. If that's not what you meant, please," he smiled, "enlighten me."

Kayla nodded, "In the center of that garden is the Mausoleum of the Ascended. An ancient burial ground for great Leanorian and Elden heros... the rock that the mausoleum is built upon is able to absorb, amplify, and radiate Cryptic energy in its purest form. In turn, the structure floats. We also have a very interesting way of getting to the top, though you can't see it from here. Also, around the mausoleum, the most skilled of priestessess and warriors are trained. It may seem oddd to train around the dead, but even the dead still have Cryptic energy. The heros buried up there have energy that you can literally feel when you stand near their graves. Its the reason the rock is able to stay afloat like that, it is feeding off of a never ending battery. Those who train there have their own abilities amplified in such a way that even when they are on another world, their Cryptic abilities are monsterous compared to others. Needless to say, the guards there are... scary, to put it lightly." Pegasus nodded, "I suppose we should go see the marketplace them. Violet? Care to let go of me now?" Violet let him go and took a step back, "Sorry, but you know how the Leanorians are." She gave a small smile, Pegasus brushed himself off, "Yes, I remember. I'm glad it wasn't a male, or I might be much worse off. Now then, if there's nothing else you have to ask, Vulpe. Believe me, we have all the time in the world so there's no need to rush."

The power of the dead flows to the living, hmm? There is much energy is this place, even I can sense it.
"No, no, by all means," Vulpe waved his hand, "proceed with the, ahha, tour. I am very interested to see the city and marketplace up close. Do your bazaars and stalls accept standard intergalactic credits? Something may catch my eye."

Pegasus smiled, "I think we'll have to make a stop at thw city center first. There's a bank there that you can use to transfer money. The Leanorians used to use a trade system until we arrived, after a while we got them into solid money but they still aren't keen to digital money." Violet nodded, "It's hard to trust something that's nothing more than a number on a screen." Pegasus shrugged, "Anyway, they use Greywatch currency, otherwise known as Drakes. So, next stop, the bank."
After they were all back in the vehicle, it sped off down to the city below. About fifteen minutes later they were in the city center. It looked like a Greywatch Prime city. Paved road, sidewalks, silvery structures... there were no advertizing billboards however. The vehicle stopped in front of a large tower. The back of the vehicle once again opened. "Well here we are, the bank..."

"Good, thank you." Vulpe stepped out, looking up at the silver buildings and the tower. He wondered what kind of exchange rate he'd be able to get for his credits. "I must ask, what kind of state is Greywatch's economy in?" he asked Pegasus as they walked to the bank entrance. Xiscapia was not at it's best at the moment, but certainly doing better than it had a couple of decades ago, now that it was no longer mired in war.

Pegasus looked over, "Ah, well, from the small amount of trading we've been doing so far. The current rate should be about 1.5 Drakes to 1 SIC, or as we call them here, Universal Credits. I'm sure that could be considered an at least moderate economy." After they entered the bank they found themselves in the entryway. It was a very large room bussling with activity as people withdrew money from the ATMs lines up on the walls. There were multiple doorways that led to different parts of the bank as well as elscalators and elevators. It was too crowded to get a very good look at it so Pegasus made sure to lead Vulpe away from the crowd quickly. They went through another doorway that led into a smaller and less crowded room. The was a large counter at the other side of the room with multiple cashiers manning it. One of them saw Pegasus and beckoned him, he quickly walked over. The cashier looked over Pegasus and then Vulpe. "So Pegasus..." The man said, Pegasus looked to Vulpe and then back at the cashier. "Ah, yes, offworlder. A diplomat actually." The other man nodded, "Gotcha, I'm assuming you're gonna extend your benefits to him?" Pegasus nodded, "That's the idea..." The cashier looked to Vulpe again and then to Pegasus, "Fine then. 2.5 UC to one Drake then." Pegasus nodded, "Thanks. Well then Vulpe, just tell him how much you wish to exchange and he'll exchange it."

"Six hundred UC to be exchanged for the appropriate amount of Drakes, please," said Vulpe, flashing the man a smile full of rather sharp, pointed teeth. That's not far off from our own state...it takes two Unions to make one Credit these days, and I have a feeling it's only going to get worse before it gets better. If the rumor's I've heard is true, the economy's due to suffer for a little while, what with the deporting of foregin holdings. Hope all those businessmen from before haven't gone off to seek greener pastures, we'll be needing 'em...

The man raised an eyebrow, What's this? Itimidation or just not knowing when to keep one's mouth shut? Reminds me of when the Drones smile, o'course, the Drones are just creepy... The man rummaged under his desk for a minute before laying some notes on the table. He began laying bills out onto the table, "Okay... fifty of the twenty Drake notes equals one thousand Drakes... Twenty-five of the ten Drake notes is two hundred and fifty... Forty of the five Drake notes is two hundred... Fifty of the one Drake notes is fifty... Okay. That should be it, 1500 Drakes for 600 UC." He laid the money on the table in a nice, neet pile, highest value on the top. "Make sure it's all there... it should be... if not I'll go back through." Pegasus smiled, "Thankyou John." The man smiled, "No problem, Pegasus."

Vulpe pushed six hundred credits worth of bound bills across the counter, embossed in the navy blue and deep space black of Xiscapia with the Emperor's head on one side and a picture of the Palace on the other before sweeping the whole lot of Drakes into his money pouch. He trusted the man to have made the correct transaction, and if not, well, he could always just come back for a more personal visit. "Thank you, sir," he gave a slight bow and turned, tucking the pouch away. Once outside Vulpe looked around, still marveling at the strange city. "So where to now? The marketplace?"

"Yes indeed," Pegasus said with a smile. They met the Leanorians outside and got back into the vehicle. It was only a five minute drive to the border of the city and the group was now in the Old District that surrounded the city. They passed by a few farms and rural-looking areas before stopping in front of an old temple. The roof had long since crumbled but inside was a mass of activity. The old temple was huge, a few of the stone etched decorations still stood. There were many stalls, all of them selling something different. Small, live animals were being sold as pets; ceremonial and traditional sets of weapons and armor; a few artifacts; other articles of food; and so on... Someone in the back was even displaying a Hellhound. Pegasus smiled, "This is one of the areas in the marketplace. Feel free to look around."

OOC: Hellhound: http://www.imperial-library.info/bestiaries/tribunal_large_durzogwild-1.jpg

OOC: Lovely.
IC:
Vulpe nodded and wandered off amongst the stalls and traders. He made his way over to the armor and weapons section, for he especially wanted to see if they sold swords here. It was always a treat to see how the craftsmanship and general quality of any sword, knife or dagger compared to that of a katana sword. In any case, you could tell a lot about a culture by the ways they killed each other and their enemies, as well as defense. And he was very interested in seeing some of those artifacts...

The two stalls selling weapons and armor were being run by two male Leanorians, both of whom had many scars and scratches all over their bodies. Among the weapons on display were regular Leanorian longswords, daggers, spears, and scimitars. They didn't sell the ceremonial weapons that were for priests and soldiers only. There were also some staffs behind them, each one radiated with a cryptic aura. The sets of armor were traditional. Leather, animal skin, some metallic amors could be seen but they were very light. One shouldn't be decieved, despite the light weight of both the armor and the weapons, they were nothing to play around with, even if they were'nt all that special. The artifacts were of many things: Small statues, ancient stones and jewelery, some old weapons, and Elden trinkets to name a few of the items on display. An old Leanorian woman sat behind the counter, she looked like a human would in their forties, even though she was actually around her seventies. There was already someone else looking around that stand, a man with scruffy brown hair and some distict red eyes... he had two guns holstered at his side. He was simply looking through, the crowd of people around them swayed. Pegasus looked around elsewhere, Violet followed him. Meanwhile, Kayla kept an eye on Vulpe.
OOC: ^^ Thankyou, I try.

Vulpe glanced at the man with red eyes while examining one of the weapons stalls. He seemed somehow familiar, even though the Xiscapian Ambassador was sure he'd never met him before...
The kitsune nodded to one of the staffs swirling with cryptic energy on display, looking to the beaten Leanorian. "How do those work?" he asked quietly. In a moment Vulpe elected, if the staffs didn't further incite his interest, to see what the artifact table had to offer.

The Leanorian took the staff from the rack and placed it in front of the Xiscapian, "When held, it amplifies Cryptic energies within the body at the cost of stamina. One of the many staffs Leanorians have created. It may tire you out faster, but it's good if you're trying to get somewhere in a hurry and need to inflict extra damage on your foe." The Leanorian held the staff out so that both ends were pointing away from anyone else near by, there was a small, discreet wave of energy and ethereal blades formed at the ends of the staff. "It's a decent enough weapon in combat. Interested?"
The other man looked over at the display the Leanorian was giving before returning to his own business. "Yes, I'd like this bracelet... I'm willing to give one hundred Drakes... is that fair?" The Leanorian woman nodded with a smile, "Consider it yours." The man smiled and put the notes in her hand before disapearing into the crowd with the small trinket.

"Yeah, I'm interested," Si watched the man walk away into the crowd out of the corner of his eye. "Are there different kinds of Cryptic energy the staff can be equipped with? And is there a way to hold it without it sapping my strength?" he inquired. He wondered about the man, conflicting with his interest in the staff. He drew Vulpe's interest without him being able to explain why. Maybe it was the eyes...but Vulpe knew that that man had been someone of stature, someone important. He looked like a rouge, but the way he carried himself suggested otherwise. He walked like a man with the weight of the galaxy on his shoulders.

The Leanorian smiled, "Not with particular one, but there are others..." The Leanorian moved to pick up another staff that had some feathered tied to the end. "This is a healing staff... it speeds up the regeneration process, making a person heal three times as fast but at the same time it does not shorten the life-span in the process." The Leanorian place the staff in front of Vulpe and then proceded to get another, this one had several blood-red gems in it. "This staff drains the life energy of your foe and transfers it to you. The only catch is that if you do not kill something everyday, it feeds on you instead. For the diehard warrior." The Leanorian place it in front of Vulpe and grabbed some gloves from under the stall, "These are known as Etherguard, they'll cut the negative effects of such weapons in half and offer more protection without sacrificing effienciency. The only catch is that you have to let the gloves recharge every week or so." The other Leanorian smiled, "Your ability to find this stuff never ceases to amazing K'shari. The Leanorian dealing with Vulpe smiled, "Yes, I'm very good at what I do, as are you." The two gave friendly nodded before returning to their own business. K'shari added, "Ah, and these staffs only activate in battle I should add. Otherwise, they are harmless. Exception being the Blood Drinker."

"Blood Drinker?" asked Vulpe, then shook his head. "No, scratch that, I don't even want to know. So how much for, say, a pair of the gloves and the healing staff? he cast his eyes around, taking in the miscellaneous weaponry. He'd have to remember this stall, it certainly was well-stocked with the more personal weaponry.

The Leanorian laughed at Vulpe's response before picking up the staff with the red gemstones. "It's this one mind you, don't worry, I don't sell any demonic weaponry, you'd have to find that elsewhere." He put the staff back on the rack. He then took the first staff he'd shown to Vulpe and placed it on the rack. He took the gloves and place them on top of the healing staff. "That would be 50 Drakes for the staff and 115 for the gloves. Believe me, the staffs are easy to get, the gloves are a little more rare."
Pegasus and Violet were off looking at their own stuff. Violet was looking at some rather nice clothing and Pegasus was just enjoying the market as a whole. He looked up at the stone walls, this place was old, if only he knew its history. After they were done here, he'd have to ask Vulpe if he wanted to see the other parts of the market or to sit in on some traditional Leanorian teachings.
Meanwhile, the other man had left and was on his way to perform some duties. He wasn't on the planet for no reason, he'd actually been sent there on request of the Leanorian high priests.

Vulpe nodded and put 165 Drakes into the hand of the Leanorian known as K'shari. "Say, before I go," he picked up the gloves, the two items disappearing into his robes as he leaned on the staff, "do you have a more physical contact combat staff? Maybe one fused with Cryptic fire or the like? Healing is all very good and well, but," he smiled, "sometimes things get a bit personal." Vulpe planned on keeping the staffs. They were elegantly carved, powerful and good multi-purpose tools.

The Leanorian looked back, "Hmm, maybe a few... most of the staffs here are made for amplification and very few of them have Cryptic natures of their own. We Leanorians typically base our weapons and armor on healing and doing light-based damage... you may have to speak to an Elden or and elder Leanorian to find a staff with the capabilities you seek." He looked Vulpe over. "I assume you're a foreigner, which means you must have a guide." Kayla took this chance to walk over, "That would be me." She said softly, K'shari smiled, "As she will tell you, the priestesses would know more about those kinds of weapons and their locations. Such things are monitored closely, you can't have Cryptic weapons falling into the wrong hands..." Kayla nodded, "He's right. Even when in a non-cryptic user's hands they're dangerous. Thankyou." She gave a nod to K'shari who gave a nod back, "You're welcome. Goodbye to you." He said to Vulpe with a nod.

Taking this to mean his visit was over, Vulpe thanked the Leanorian and stepped away from the stall, staff in one hand. "You would know where to obtain such things?" he asked Kayla quietly. "Understand that these are novelty to me, nothing like these staffs exist on Xiscapia to my knowledge. Anyway," he shook his head slightly, "I'd like to see what she," he nodded to the older Leanorian with the relics on display, "is selling."

Kayla smiled, "Priestesses would probably willing to show you some other more... powerful items. Its just that Leanorians are careful about selling Cryptic weapons... I'll be sure to show you why later on." Kayla looked to the other stall, "Well whenever you're ready we can head over there."

Vulpe was pleased. "I would like to see these Crpytic weapons, and perhaps purchase one or two. With your permission, of course," he added hastily. With that he slid over to the next stall, taking a moment to look over the merchandise. "Hello, what are these?" he indicated the general stall.

The old Leanorian looked up, "Ah, various artifacts and trinkets... Some old statuettes, jewelery, a few old scrolls... Most of these objects are actually a few years old." She looked to some carvings made out of bone and wood. She picked up a small jeweled bracelet, "Items like these are said to grant special powers... though I've never seen it for myself." She then took a chest from under the stall and opened it up, inside were various old Elden scrolls and a few gems. Kayla looked to all the things on the stall, "Wow, not often I see this much history in the market."

"History of what? The Leanorians? The Elden?" Vulpe shook his head, and casually pointed out a bracelet, identical to the one the man had paid for and left with only moments before. "What is this supposed to do?" he asked. The merchant said these items were only a few years old...and some of them grant special powers, but she's never seen it. Strange, a trinket seller with objects of potential power, unless it's all a scam of some kind...or she knows not what she possesses.

Kayla smiled, "Oh, by that, I mean the scrolls and the runes. Those are obviously old." The odler Leanorian nodded, "Indeed they are. The scrolls are very old indeed. I have runes and various other ancient texts... the bracelets and jewelery... those are a little newer. You would find only replicas in the city but out here in the marketplace, you will find what is real. Despite their recent creation, they are quite... unique." She picked up the bracelet similar to the one that the other man had bought, "Take this and put it on. Then close your eyes... you'll see something very interesting." Kayla looked at the scrolls as the other Leanorian spoke, looking over them it was obvious this seller was not scamming them. The scrolls were written in cryptic, probably from a tomb of some kind, it was odd that no one had noticed this before. Leanorians were typically very protective of such things. Kayla moved her hand accross the scroll and watched as the words began to glow, move, and change as her cryptic energies flowed through the paper. "I'll take this one for two hundred drakes." The older Leanorian took the bills as Kayla handed them to her and smiled. "I'm sure you'll learn quite a bit from it."

Vulpe frowned at the cryptic words of the Leanorian merchant, reaching out and picking up the bracelet. He noticed Kayla's purchase of the scroll, but didn't stop to think about it as he clipped the bracelet to his wrist, closed his eyes, and waited. The Xiscapian Ambassador stood in the middle of the crowded marketplace, still and silent, unseeing, as he waited for whatever effects to come into place.

It would only take a moment before the darkness lit up. What could be seen at first was a blur of bright blue and after a few seconds shapes would begin to form. After about ten seconds, what Vulpe was seeing was the very life energy of every living thing in the marketplace. The old Leanorian smiled, "Can you see it? It's called Soul Sight."

"I'm seeing people's souls?" said Vulpe in a surprised voice, though the words of the Leanorian sounded distant despite her standing almost right next to him. It was fascinating, all bodies represented by shimmering blue-green glows, formless and shapeless. It's the Force, Vulpe realized, I'm seeing people's life force.

"Correct, one of many different trinkets infused with special powers..." The older Leanorian smiled. "Cryptic items evolve to an extent, the younger ones release more cryptic energy, use more cryptic energy, and amplify cryptic energy more, but stay active for shorter periods of time. Older items release less energy but have greater reserves and thus can remain active almost indefinately." Kayla looked to Vulpe, "Nice little souvineer, huh? As you can see, even if you aren't a cryptic user, these items have some considerable power."

Vulpe removed the bracelet, blinking in the sudden light and streaming back of normal colors and movement. He carefully set the bracelet back down, suddenly wondering what he would see if he looked at a Drone with the bracelet on. The same shimmering soul, a black void, or simply nothing? "What else can these artifacts do?" he asked, looking at the table strewn with relics with considerably more respect.

"Well a few of them are said to make one more lucky... some give a little extra strength..." The Leanorian pulled a small box from underneath the table. Opening it revealed a few rings. A ruby one, a silver one, an ivory one, and a a obsinian one, and a emerald one. The Leanorian began pointing to them, "The ruby ring provides one with slight resistance to fire, making the flesh harder to burn. The silver one helps one recover from fatigue quicker. The ivory one is infused with holy energies for banishing demons, mind you this one is very old. The obsinian one... that's only for display actaully, selling it wouldn't be in anyone's best interest. The emerald one allows one tro blend in with their surroundings for short periods of time, this is also only for display."

Vulpe nodded to the box. "I'm interested in the ivory ring...but can you be persuaded to sell the emerald one? Money is no object, I assure you, and my intentions are the best. Neither you nor this city have anything to fear from myself or my brethern." He wondered what the black ring did that was so undesirable, and marked down this stall for another future visit as well.

The old Leanorian shook her head, "The reason I keep the emerald one is not because I don't trust you but rather because an Elden gave it to me as a gift and I consider it to be special. The ivory one, however, is yours for 575 Drakes, I'm sure if you like to hunt demons it will be very useful." Kayla smiled, "A good price indeed for something of that caliber."

"In that case give me the ivory and the silver one, let's call it, hmm, 700 Drakes?" He smiled winningly and dug into his money poutch.

The old Leanorian smiled, healing items were Leanorian specialty so it would be easy to get another. "I can agree to that." She took the two rings and held them out to Vulpe. Kayla looked to Vulpe, "Anything else you want to see? Or should we head back and meet the others."
Pegasus and Violet were actually already outside with Pegasus's new Hellhound. Despite the feirce look of the creature it was quite gentle towards him as he pet it. It stood about 4 feet in height and was a good 8 feet in length. Violet looked at the creature with a smile, "You just had to..." Pegasus smiled back, "Sorry, I like the weird stuff in life."

"Many thanks," Vulpe smiled and took the rings, pocketing them for now. He would wear them as he saw fit, as they shouldn't just be considered decorative pieces. "Well, he said to Kayla, "I wanted to go to the back and see what that beast was-" He stopped at he caught sight of Pegasus with "the beast" outside, and silently and rather apprehensively walked around it to his human guide. "What in all the galaxy is that?" he asked, noticing the creature was letting Pegasus stroke it gently. Some kind of over sized attack dog on steroids? he wondered.

Pegasus smiled, "Oh yes, this. One of the only Forbidden Ministry projects that Greywatch scientists, official ones, had a hand in making... Based off the Dragon-kin. A large reptilian, asexual, attack/guard beast that can be used for many things. I decided that it needed a good home instead of being sold to heavens-know-who." Kayla rolled her eyes and looked at Violet, Violet looked back inocently, "Yes, it's a Hellhound... or so they were called. At least this one was tamed." The beast rubbed its head against Pegasus and nearly pushed him over in the process. Pegasus looked to Vulpe, "Go ahead and pet it. It's actually quite a friendly creature."

"Uh...okay." Vulpe reached down and gave the creature a few tentative strokes, feeling the leathery hide under his fingers. "An experimental project by the government, and they let them breed for the public?" he wondered aloud. "What were they being created for, do you know? Just attack dogs?"

The beast let out a friendly growl as Vulpe pet it, Pegasus smiled, "Originally yes, they were attack beasts... but there are 'different versions' of this creature. Military breed attack beasts, pack animals, domesticated pets... Like the Drones they have multiple purposes. Now this one is incapable of reproduction and I'd also think that it is an ex-military class. The true domesticated ones are usually much smaller." Violet could help start petting it as well, "Its so gentle. Too bad it looks like a monster." Pegasus shrugged, "Looks don't mean much to me as you can see," he looked at Vulpe, "And it's not experimental, at least not anymore. We've had them for about fifteen years or so..."

Vulpe nodded, getting used to the feel of the Hellhound's skin on his hands. "Interesting. Very interesting. Your genetic engineering and biological modification technology must be quite advanced." It was no new idea, using organic beasts for warfare: Apparently, if what Vulpe had heard from his fellow Ambassadors was true, some shadowy department deep in the bowls of the military cranked out deadly diseases, ferocious animals and strange, other-worldly creatures to use against any of Xiscapias half dozen prominent enemies on a daily basis.

Pegasus nodded, "Yes... indeed it must be. The wars we have been in have made us turn to... interesting methods for defense... but enough of that kind of talk." Kayla began to speak, "Pegasus, you know that we Leanorians are training our next generation of warriors. I want to show Vulpe what true cryptic weapons are like. He saw a few cryptic items in the marketplace and was curious. I want him to see what cryptic weapons are capable of doing..." Pegasus was a little uncomfortable at the mention of this, he knew that such weapons were dangerous, "I see." He said while stroking the Hellhound, "Well if he wants to, by all means we shall make that our next stop."

"Please," Vukpe nodded his head empathetically. "We have nothing like them on Xiscapia. I would like to see them in action and observe how they work. Such power is...considerable."
After viewing the staffs, bracelet and rings, Vulpe wondered as to the exact nature of Cryptic abilities. Where, exactly, did it come from? A persons internal energy or their life force? Was it pulled from some other dimension or universe, could it possibly be made, could a non-cryptic user harness the power? The properties and uses were endless.

"Right then, next stop: The Training grounds. Now then, to the vehicle." Pegasus said with a smile as they walked back to the transport, the Hellhound followed them. Before getting in Pegasus stoked the beast one more time, "Well I know you'll be able to keep up. C'mon then." After getting inside they were off to the training grounds, a good fifteen minutes outside of the city. Leanorians training in Cryptic abilities meant a lot of space was required. The Hellhound kept up with the vehicle the whole way quite easily, it was easy to see why Greywatch would have used such creatures in wars.
The vehicle parked on a hill when they arrived. Below them as they got out were rows of young Leanorians, all of whom were being prepared for military service. There were many groups, this was one of them, basic training. The terrain here was very rocky and made a good place for physical training. One could see other Leanorian groups practicing in the distance. Flashes of light came from the distance where Leanorians practiced marksmanship with standard plasma rifles and Cryptic abilities. Explosions could be seen even further away though from what one wouldn't be able to determine.
Kayla looked out at all the young boys and girls that were gathered, most of them in their teens. All of them were being watched by older Leanorians, Drones, and/or Elden. "Well this is it Vulpe, the training grounds at a distance. Though I'm sure the students would love to show off their stuff to you personally..." Kayla said with a smile. Pegasus was about to add something before the Hellhound appeared at his side, "Wow, always there... yes, Kayla, this is your field. Perhap you and Violet would like to show him around?" Kayla nodded, "As long as he's okay with it."

Vulpe nodded. "I would be honored to be guided and escorted by two young Leanorians such as yourselves. I just hope that my presence does not distract any of the students from their training. Conditioning and preparation is very important, as any soldier or commander will tell you." Internally Vulpe was surprised at the apparently young ages of the Leanorians out in the field, but he remembered the Leanorian female in the marketplace who had seemed in her forties but was actually in her seventies. Perhaps these recruits were older than they looked as well.

Kayla led Vulpe through the rows of students. The students actually took no notice, it was routine to have someone come through and check on them. He continued performed quick punches and high kicks to the air in front of them. Violet was not far behind. It actually wasn't this that Kayla wanted Vulpe to see, but rather a minute walk away was a training circle where students would face each other and against more skilled opponents as a test to their skills.
This is where the action was. There were about twenty students watching as a young Leanorian girl was fighting a Drone. Neither one was holding back, clearly, the Drone at one point got the girl to the ground and slammed its fist down. The girl was able to roll out of the way but the ground was shattered by the raw strength the Drone possessed. In a few quick moments the battle actually ended as the girl used banish and actually impaled her training partner with her hand. The Drone smiled as she panted, "Good, very good indeed. You may rest now." The Drone said as she removed her hand from the Drones chest, very quickly the wound healed and the Drone pointed to another student, "You're next. Prepare yourself for combat." Looking around, one could already see that all the students who had already fought, whether they had won or lost, were hit hard. The very ground they were training on reflected the harsh training.
Kayla looked to Vulpe, "This is for those who wish to become our elites. Normally we don't allow Drones near our young, but this is a new program to find our strongest at a young age. All of the children here are anywhere from thirteen to sixteen years of age."

Vulpe watched silently in evaluation. Xiscapia trained it's own soldiers, of course, and there were orders of priests who conditioned and prepared for combat within their own temples and citadels. Vulpe had seen a training session for Black Guards once, elite bodyguards trained, genetically and cybernetically modified, instructed in the ways of the Force and heavily armed to protect the Imperial Family, ambassadors, diplomats and high-ranking military leaders and important installations throughout the Kitsune Empire. He had observed the young recruits as they were pushed though trials including VR immersion, live hand-to-hand combat against instructors, obstacle courses, moving target ranges, beast-fighting and use of the Force to remove, diminish or destroy enemies and obstacles and solve timed puzzles. He could see that this before him was nothing less than the Guard training, judging by the marks on the students, mutilated combat arena and the use of Cryptic abilities.
"Most impressive," he said quietly. "Is the fatality and burn-out rate high for these elite?" If the way the Drone had smashed the ground just seconds after the young fighter had moved was any indication, pupils being killed in the course of their training was a real threat.
Privately Vulpe disapproved of molding such younglings into warriors. To him, it was kin to making child soldiers, and once they became a full warrior there would be no turning back. Once a fighter, always a fighter.
However, he kept quiet on his own opinion. He was here to express Kitsune Imperial feelings, not his own, and in any case he had no wish to offend his hosts.

"Drones are far more careful than it may appear and we're a race of people who have essentially mastered the arts of healing. Large scale healing even, some can perform ressurections... at a cost, so no. This is the most basic of training. Not something you'd see in the actual Greywatch facilities where fatalities are typically at 78% most of the time... The training process actually takes awhile so we have to start them while they're young. From here there are several other courses of various design, training and honing of abilities, survival missions, and so on." Kayla led Vulpe to another group. This one consisted of about twenty students in their middle teens, about 15-16. each one of them was wearing bracelets like those in the marketplace and several other articles of jewelery.
The man who'd been looking around in the marketplace was here. He watched over them as the meditated. He immediately noticed the Vulpe, Kayla, and Violet coming his way and proceded to them. "I assume you have a request for me." He said to them with a lack of expression or emotion, Kayla nodded, "You're teaching these students how to use cryptic items, correct?" The man nodded, "Yes, they're currently resting for our next lesson so if a demonstration is what you're looking for..." he looked to Vulpe, "Please say so now."

Mentally Vulpe shrugged. It appeared no one wished to show or expose him to anything unless he gave his express permission. "I do wish to, please." he answered, looking at the students. He wondered if the man was an Elden, but he spoke like a Drone. What would these students be able to show him?

"Students, rise." All the other Leanorian opened their eyes and did so. The man had to think for a moment, What would be best? Obviously has to be decent lest I get criticized later... The man pointed to one of the students who promptly moved forward. He then took some steps back, "Attack me with anything you choose." The student nodded, he looked to Vulpe for only a second before placing his hands together. A ring on his pointer finger, a braclet on his right wrist, and a amulet around his neck all began to glow. There was a flash and a moment later the student had changed. There was now a silver collar around his neck and his right and left arms were completely encased in a shimmering silvery armor. He made a motion with his left arm and a shield materialized on it, he made a motions with his right and summoned a flaming longsword. The look in his eyes was different, both had a hint of blue light emminating from them. The student held his sword so it pointed at the man, "Prepare yourself, professor."
The man smiled at the display, "Ha! Excellent cryptic focusing. Now then, we shall begin." The man pulled a gun from a holster at his right side. The weapon was a solid black and had blood red runes covering it. He aimed it at the student and it began to distort, becoming a mass of black energy that engulfed his arm and shoulder. He looked like some kind of demon, his entire right arm was gray in color and covered with red runes, his forearm was now some kind of three barreled cannon, there were three spikes of foot long length jutting from the back of his right shoulder. "Now then, COME!"
The student charged with a battle cry and lept at his trainer striking solid blows at the man. The man blocked but with every blow the ground underneath him would crack from the pressure. The other stdent began making a circle around them of about a thirty foot diameter. They all placed their hands on the ground. Kayla looked to Vulpe, "The two fighting before you are using Cryptic weapons... and I'll tell you this now: the boy you see, his weapons are made to convert Cryptic energy into a armor and weapons as you can see, you only need activate and deactivate it. The trainer on the other hand is using a weapon that is a little different, it too can convert Cryptic energy but it leeches that energy straight from him." She then pointed to the students, "They have summoned a barrier using their own energy and a special earing that allows one to make physical barriers of Cryptic energy."
The two inside the barrier continued their battle. The man would occassionally find enough time to fire off some bright red bolts of energy at the student. Both looked as if they could fight for awhile until the student managed to catch a break. He dodged a few shots, which lit up a bright white whenever they hit the barrier, and then used his shield to smash his foe in the face. While the man tried to retaliate the student forced his sword through the man and through him against the barrier. The student panted heavily as the man rose and deactivated his Cryptic weapon. The man clapped, "Well done, very well done indeed."
The other students sighed as they removed the barrier and allowe dthe two to step out. The student unsummoned his gear and was sweating and panting heavily. The man, on the other hand, was fine and proceded to move back the the three spectators. The other students began checking their companion to make sure he would be okay. The man stopped in front of Kayla, "Was that enough?" He said, his voice no had a hint of happiness. "I hope that was a good enough demonstration." Kayla nodded, "I believe so, will he be alright? I haven't seen many go up again you before." The man looked back, "He'll be fine. He has a healing ring and a very good regeneration rate from what I've seen in the past. I'll make sure the priestesses look at him later." Kayla looked to Vulpe, "So? What do you think?"

Vulpe laughed out loud. "What do I think? I have had quite the time on this world, but that, sir, is one of the most amazing things I've ever seen. Splendid form, if I am any judge, and if what I am told is true it takes incredible strength, focus and stamina to maintain the kind of Cryptic weaponry and abilities that you and your student did." He bowed. "I can see why you are training the elite of this nation."

The man was a little taken aback but was happy to impress, "Glad you liked it. These students have been giving me quite the time, they're skilled. They've certainly come a way from being smacked around by elders and Drones... now they can even hold off against Elden." Kayla smiled, "What was your name exactly? I never caught it." The man shrugged, "Red." Kayla nodded and thought to herself for a moment, "Red... Leona's mate?" The man nodded, "Yeah, that's me." Violet looked in suprise, "Really? I heard Leona had found a mate, I didn't know it was an Elden." The man shrugged, "Well what happens, happens." He looked down at his chest, "Forgot about this." The blood from his wound receeded back into him and both his flesh and his clothing were restored to normal. "Ah, much better. Now then, I still have a few more to train, you'll have to excuse me."

Vulpe frowned as Red went back to his students. "Who is Leona?" he asked Kayla curiously as the master went back to his pupils. Now Vulpe's interest had grown. Red...why does that sound familiar? Where have I heard that? The man's wound and easy healing of it made Vulpe a little uneasy, despite all the Cryptic powers he had seen.
OOC: TG.

Violet watched as Red left before looking at Vulpe, "Leona? She's the daughter of a tribe leader, one of the first ones the humans came accross. She's a skilled priestess and warrior that currently works as one of the Greywatch military's elite. She makes many Leanorians proud because of her skill and dedication, not to mention that fact that she earned the right to command her own special squad." Kayla nodded, "Shes well known in this particular area. Many want to be like her."
OOC: responded

Vulpe nodded solemnly, as was his way. "The path of the warrior can be a lonely one, and I am glad that she has found a mate. Is there a chance that Xiscapian forces, in one of our forays, could have encountered this person?"

"Well we do know she went to planet full of demons not too long ago," Said Kayla, "Red was with her. They had some Leanorians with them as well as plenty of human soldiers. She mentioned that there were other races on the planet helping to quell the demonic forces. She desribed two really odd character travling togther and some machanical like beings..."

Vulpe just listened until the words began to connect in his brain. A planet full of demons...Red was with them...other races, some mechanical like beings...two really odd characters traveling together...
Redemption!
Silvertooth and Nightshade!
Great Qonn!
With a swiftness that surprised even himself, Vulpe turned and gave an almost desperate look to Kayla. "Redemption, I mean Red," he pointed to the Elden, "I need to speak with him. Now! It's vitally important!"

Kayla was taken by suprise at Vulpe's sudden outburst, Didn't someone say that name before? Is that guy supposed to be Redemption? "Um, go ahead, if you need to speak to him." Violet watched with confusion, Where'd that come from?"

Vulpe strode across the yard, carefully avoiding crossing any of the training circles where the students were practicing. He reached Redemption, not even waiting for the Elden to acknowledge him before bowing a speaking. "Sensi Red, if you would mind coming with me for just a few minutes where we can speak in private," he touched the stone Xiscapian Diplomatic Corps symbol pinned to his robes of a running fox, "I have a few questions I'd like to ask you. I will not take much of your time." In as much a desperate hurry as Vulpe was, he knew to be polite, especially to someone who was essentially a stranger.

Red was more focused on his students at the time and Vulpe actually suprised him, he looked at his students and gave only a slight nod. Each one already knew that meant they were to go back to meditation and wait for him. He looked back to Vulpe, "Certainly, if it's that important. Lead the way..." He looked around and saw an area far enough away that no one would hear them talking and pointed to it, "May I suggest over there."

Vulpe barely glanced at the area. "Sure," he led the Elden over to there, stopping with his back to the students and the man who he knew to be Redemption beside him. "Recently, it may even have been your last assignment, you were sent with a Greyknight called Nightshade to an unnamed world that had become inhabited by demons of Chaos. There you met several other forces: Armed soldiers and vehicles from the nations known as Alversia and Belkros, and two others. I don't know how they might have introduced themselves or where they said they came from, but it was a male and a female, cloaked in black, with katana swords. About six foot one and five nine respectively, covered in dirty white fur, red hair, yellowish eyes..." He stared at Redemption. "Do you recall anyone there matching those descriptions?"

"Xiscapians I'm assuming, definately, their features were very similar to yours... especially the ears. One of them was called Nightshade, I remember that only because it was a name shared by my partner." He paused for a moment, "How much do you know about me? I have an odd feeling you know more than most of the officials in Greywatch."

Vulpe shook his head. "I don't know anything more about you than what I just said, that was only an official report that I was briefed on before I came here. The reason for this is because those two...belong to us, in a way. Before I answer any questions, I have to know what happened to them. They never returned from assignment, and all our inquiries have turned up blanks."

"You're asking the wrong person about them. First off, they seemed more concerned about the demons than anything else, they also seemed like people who took their jobs way too seriously. I know that at some point the female one went with the Belkan commander to discuss information about me. Or so the commander heading the Greywatch operation told me, he wasn't too happy about the whole going-behind-your-ally's-back thing. We came, we saw, we fought. The battle was hectic, there were no fond farewells, I kept an eye on them until I found a lovely group of opponents to kill. When it was over, they were gone, vanished. Very Forbidden Ministry style, actually."

Vulpe shook his head. "That's not right, they wouldn't just up and vanish. They would at least send a communique home recording what happened, but we found their ship on the planet. We've scoured the whole world, but there was no trace of them. It was like they'd never left, but weren't there..." He looked sharply at Redemption. "Are you sure you have no idea about how they went? Nothing you noticed that no one else did, no information you're supposed to keep classified?"
OOC: TG.

"Weird, I never saw them again, to be honest I didn't really bother trying to become friends or anything. Once the battle was done I was assigned another mission and actually had to leave..." He waited for a moment, "Leona stayed behind after I left, though. Something was bothering her when I saw her afterwards... and the group that was sent in, they returned with a lot of names in both KIA and MIA. I didn't bother to question why, but a lot of the soldiers who came back seemed, disturbed. Let me say right now that I'm actually considered a mercenary so I don't really get the entire story on most situations. I'll contact Leona and see if she'll open up about it, she was there and she gets all the official reports like any other commander. Would that help?"
OOC: responded

Vulpe sagged but he nodded. "That would be very helpful, thank you. The government is very interested to know exactly what went down at that battle and why no one's heard from the two of them since. They aren't the kind of people to just, you know, lie low."
OOC: Yeah, it's cool.

"I'll get on that, but I still have my contract here to worry about." He pointed to the students, "Believe me, I'm sure you know of the Forbidden Ministry. I have one of the guys who started the damn organization, if there's info, I'll get it. Now then, you should go back to your tour before there's any suspiscion. Pegasus and the Leanorians are harmless, it's those damn Drones, they see something odd and they snitch." He gave a smile and led Vulpe back to the students, "Sorry, but that about all I can say. Cryption is a difficult thing to explain."

"Right," Vulpe nodded and bowed once more, "thanks a lot. But as soon as Mrs. Leona can tell me what happened there, or you find someone else or some report that can, you must contact me immediately. It is very important, one of my primary mission objectives is to uncover the truth in what happened to them there."
He walked back over to Kayla and Pegasus. "Sorry about that." he smiled wanly.

Kayla and Violet made no comment, "Let's go back to Pegasus. We still have one other nice thing to see. The mousolium sound?" Asked Kayla with a smile. Violet added, "You've seen warriors, time for you to see the priestesses." They led him back to Pegasus who was waiting patiently, there was a holo-screen in front of him and he was working on some documents. The holo-screen deactivated as he saw the others, "Ah you're back. I assume you saw something interesting?" Kayla smiled, "He saw plenty and then some. We should head beack to the city, Violet is going to get us into the mousolium." Pegasus raised an eyebrow, "I see, that sounds very interesting indeed." He looked to Vulpe, "I assume you're ready to go?"

Vulpe nodded, still lost in thought. What the hell could have happened to them? They're gone, but they never left, and if they were still alive they would have contacted us by now but if they were dead we would know it...

Pegasus found the Vulpe's silence was a little odd but paid no heed. They all boarded the vehicle and were headed back to the city. After a few minutes the vehicle came to a stop. "Strange," Pegasus said, "We can't possibly be at the city already..." The driver called back to the group, "Sir, we have a problem. Leanorian raiders..." Pegasus stood up and moved to the front of the vehicle, "What are you talking about?" The driver looked back at him and then pointed to several figures that were surrounding the vehicle. "Damn it all... of all the times for this to happen." The back of the transport opened up and Kayla and Violet exited. Before closing the back of the transport Kayla only bothered to say one thing, "We'll handle this."
Outside they were surrounded by about twelve other Leanorians, most of them male but the leader of the group was definately female. All of them laughed as the two exited the vehicle alone, without backup, and without any human weapons. Kayla touched a bracelet she was wearing and a sword formed in he hand, she pointed the weapon to the leader, who was dressed in little more than some animal skins as clothing and was weilding a spear. "What is your business here? You're breaking the treaty's laws." The leader laughed, "Not us, you. All human-lovers stay in their area. You've crossed into our territory." She spoke coldly but as if she was enjoying the situation. Kayla frowned, "Don't speak of technicalities to me! You know full well there was something worked out between our two sides so that the students could train here." The female bandit shook her head, he long, messy brown hair in her face, "They have permission. But you do not, we wouldn't attack them anyway. The students would be defenceless but their teachers-" Violet interupted her, "Cowards! You think because there are two of us we'll be an easy kill?! Not on your life. COME!" Violet armed herself the same way Kayla did but instead was weilding a staff.
Pegasus meanwhile sat bak down patiently and sighed, "I hope those two don't get themselves killed... If only my Hellhound wasn't off hunting..." He looked at Vulpe, "You don't mind if I go assist them do you? I know I shouldn't leave you here but this is a matter I should also be attending to." Outside, the enemies were preparing for battle, they summoned their own weapons, some of them even possessed stolen weapons salvaged from people they'd killed. It wasn't going to be pretty.

Me? I'm only a diplomat, I'm not a warrior or soldier! He thought in almost a panic. My place is peace and words, not war and swords!
But Vulpe's words caught in his throat, and he could only nod, grimly making sure his katana was fastened to his belt and picking up his recently-acquired staff. The Xiscapian slowly stepped outside the vehicle, noticing they were outnumbered four-to-one. If the Forbidden Ministry didn't like my questions and decided to bump me off, this would be the way to do it. He thought darkly. His white sword scabbard shone brightly in the hot midday sun, and he looked nervously at the assortment of weapons the bandits carried, inconspicuously slipping the silver ring onto his right ring finger.

"There's no need for this," he called to the Leanorians in general. "I'll have you know I am an Ambassador from the Kitsune Empire of Xiscapia. If I am brought to harm your lives will be considerably shorter than your specie's normal lifespan, and I am sure the Empire can put in a request for your corpses to be impaled on stakes as warnings to others who would attempt this foolishness." He looked at the one he had heard speaking. "All you have to do is walk away."
He didn't know if his bluff had worked, but Vulpe did not want to have to fight these people. His combat training had been extensive, preparing him for situations like this, but he didn't know if he could beat off so many who obviously lived by fighting and killing.

Vulpe held the staff before him like a walking stick, apparently defenseless, and judging by the looks Kayla and Violet were giving him they were doubting his abilities to hold up in combat...

The enemy Leanorians frowned at Vulpe's words before grinning evilly and laughing. "Hah! This one speaks so boldly!" Said one of the males. "We should kill him!" "No, we should let him go, but castrate him first!" "I say we eat the bastard!" Were some of the other shouts. Pegasus turned to Vulpe, "Stand back. They only see you as-" He was interrupted by the lead female, "We will capture him and make his precious Kitsune Empire pay for his safe return! Warriors, CHARGE!" With a roar, they were coming in at full speed.
"Oh damn it all..." Said Pegasus with an annoyed tone. The Leanorians bandits closed in quickly only to be met by the force of two Leanorian militants. Violet was up first, slamming her staff into the ground sent a wave of cryptic energy at the multiple enemies, sending them flying back. Kayla charged forward, effortlessly slicing two aggressors with little effort. One Leanorian tried to attack Vulpe only to be met by Pegasus who stabbed a rapier through its foot. "You just messed with one of the..." He pulled the sword out and gave the bandit a solid uppercut, "few humans with Cryptic abilities."
The battle wasn't won, though. They were all still outnumbered and slightly outgunned, even having their skill. "Crap... Leanorian guards aren't gonna get to us in time..." Another Leanorian approached Pegasus and smiled, "At least you realize that. Now then, you can die knowing you weren't a complete-" There was only a scream as a large beast took the Leanorian to the ground. It was enough to get everyone else's attention, Pegasus only smiled, "Hellhound: Greywatch bio-weapon used in desperate situations requiring no thought, just instinct." The hound didn't kill the Leanorian but mauled him, throwing the body around like a ragdoll. It was enough he wouldn't be able to move, the leader of the bandits looked on with terror. "What kind of demon?" Kayla sighed and looked to Pegasus, "Well?" Pegasus smiled, "Right," he looked to the hound and snapped his fingers.
In a second, the Hellhound rushed the bandits, completely ignoring Kayla and Violet. The bandits continued to fight; they just were all trying to get rid of the Hellhound. Many of them were trying to rely on Cryptic abilities but found that was hard against such a creature. Like any other Leanorian, they focused more on healing and protection, smiting didn’t work as well against a creature that wasn’t an actual demon. Operating like a feral animal the Hellhound broke bones and tossed the bandit’s bodies into the air. Before long, only the leader was left, she was alone but still had a fierce look in her eye. “Dammit, I will not back down to-” Pegasus interrupted her, “Shut up please…” he rolled his eyes, “You might as well fight a Drone… at least they speak English and tell you when they’re going to kill you. Now then, take your soldiers and leave, they’ve been mauled and my diplomacy mission has been completely ruined by the likes of you. Why is it that people like you don’t get it?” He calmly approached the Leanorian until he was standing right in front of her. He leaned in so that they were looking in each others eyes, “I will make your life a living hell. Believe me, I may be a diplomat, I may not have much fighting skill, hell I even avoid fights… but you don’t fucking piss me off and expect things to be hunky dory afterwards. Do you understand my words Leanorian?” The female looked back at him and slowly nodded, she got down on her knees, dropping her weapon. Pegasus smiled before walking back the transport followed by the Hellhound, Kayla, and Violet.
He gave a sorrowful looked to Vulpe, “I’m sorry you had to witness this… I’m sorry I had to witness this. How I hate fighting… and yet things like this happen.” He bowed to Vulpe, “Please accept my sincerest apologies, on behalf of myself, the Leanorians, and Greywatch as a whole. I never meant for something like this to happen.” Kayla shook her head, “Please don’t be to hard on him. We should’ve mentioned the fact that other tribes of Leanorians don’t always see eye to eye… because of that we have limited territory and raids are common. I just didn’t think it would happen here.” Violet added in, “But we can still take you to the mausoleum. At least the trip wouldn’t end on a bad note…”

Well, we sure showed them. thought Vulpe dryly, well aware that he hadn't done a thing but antagonize the enemy.
He waved a hand. "No apologies are necessary, these things happen, I understand. I am only glad no one was harmed..." His glance flicked to the blood on the grass and the prone, badly injured forms of the ambitious bandits. "Unduly. However, if you will kindly excuse me again for moment..." Staff in hand, Vulpe strode back over to where the former leader of the Leanorian raiders was on her knees. He bent over to lower his head to her height, so none of the others heard his words. He gave a bright, false, glassy smile, and when he spoke the words were whispered.

"You got off lucky, bandit. Lucky that you fought your own kind and a compassionate human who could restrain his beast. If you and your band had attacked me alone, you would not be getting off so easily. In fact, you wouldn't be getting up again. Ever. Even with those fancy resurrection abilities some of you have, who would preform the procedure for scum like you? Not to mention there wouldn't be enough left," he hissed the word, and for an instant his face contorted into a snarl, "to assemble into anything remotely resembling what you looked like in life. So," he stood fully and nodded, smile back like it had never left his face, "I hope we understand each other, in the future pick your targets more carefully, and if I ever see you again I will string you up from the nearest tree by your entrails." He finished matter of factly, gave the slightest bow, and walked back.

"Please rest assured I think nothing worse of you for this. It will, of course, be added to my report to my superiors, but I am sure that diplomatic negotiations will not be strained in the slightest." He gave a true smile to his guides. "Now, who is entombed in this mausoleum?"

The bandit leader gave a half growl at Vulpe’s comment, just barely keeping her claws retracted. This fight is over... unfortunately. I'll just have to come back later to pick up the pieces. No matter... as long as I'm still alive, that's enough... now to become stronger... She rose as Vulpe began to walk away and picked up her weapon. Pegasus was about to warn Vulpe but Kayla placed her hand on his shoulder. The bandit leader began walking away, whatever warriors were still able to walk followed her, dragging or carrying their brethren with them.
Pegasus sighed as Vulpe told him that the attack would not be held against him or Greywatch, “Well that is indeed good to know. I’ll-” Kayla cut him off, “I will tell the city guard to increase patrols and be on guard whenever foreigners are around. Pegasus, I will take care of any report that has to be sent to Greywatch, this counts as a military matter.” Pegasus paused and then nodded, “Right, because you’re a soldier.” She smiled and nodded, “Exactly.”
Violet looked to Vulpe, “Well while they’re working that out I guess I’ll answer your question. The mausoleum houses the bodies of various Leanorian and Elden heroes of the old times. It is an important religious center and also serves as the training ground of the more… gifted priests and priestesses. A holy place that is very hard to get into,” she winked at Vulpe, “If you’re lucky we might even see Leona.” Pegasus raised an eyebrow, “I’ve heard that name before… she’s the wife of an Elden, correct?” Violet nodded, “We just met her husband actually. Too bad you weren’t there, we’ll take you to see him some other time ‘k?” Pegasus chuckled, “Yes, I’d like to meet him. But, seeing as there’s nothing more to do here, I say we take our leave of this area.” Once everyone was back inside the transport was off again with the Hellhound running along side it. Before long, they were in the outskirts of the city again, but this was a different part. There were very few people in this district and there were many high walls and guards. Every guard looked to be very well trained and looked over Pegasus and company as if they shouldn’t be there, especially Vulpe.
Violet whispered to the others as she led them, “Don’t look any of them in the eyes, that’s a challenge. Don’t speak out of line and do what they say, they won’t try to exploit you but they do not have very good attitudes. Don’t give them a reason to want to kill you.” Pegasus and Kayla nodded silently. Meanwhile, the Hellhound waited at the entrance with the transport.

Vulpe had been well aware of the raider retrieving her weapon behind him, but he did nothing more than walk as if he hadn't noticed anything at all back to his group. If there had been any danger he would have known before she had even stepped forward to attack, and at any rate he really didn't want to hurt anyone anymore than had been. "Sounds like the Isle of the Dead, back on Xiscapia," he smiled at the comparison. "That is where all the ashes of our great leaders and heroes are held, and their monuments. Sounds like this will end on a high note."

Once there Vulpe was very careful to keep his eyes downcast and to move in a non-threatening manner. He reminded himself not to speak here unless spoken to, and wondered if they really would meet Leona. If he hadn't received anything from Redemption by the time he met her, it would save them both a lot of trouble. Perhaps she would know what had happened to Silvertooth and Nightshade. Otherwise, Vulpe didn't know where to turn to next.

Leona was not expecting any visitors, so when one of her priestesses came through her door and told her of a foriegn diplomat and a tour, she was very curious. "Sister," she said gently, "Who gave them permission to come here?" The other Leanorian was down are he knee lookign at Leona, "It was violet, sister. She is with two others.... they are giving a foriegn diplomat a tour of our world. They saw our soldiers training and now wish to see how we priestesses conduct our own work." Leona sighed, "I see, I do wish that Violet would ask ahead of time. I do not wish to be rude..." The other Leanorian prepared to stand, "Shall I tell them to leave?" Leona raised her hand, "No, let them in. Where is this foriegner from?" The Leanorian waited before speaking, "Xiscapia... sister."
Pegasus, Vulpe, Violet, and Kayla were all standing in front of a large glowing circle of runes. Pillars were all around them and it was obvious there had been some structure here, most likely another temple. Unlike the other areas, plants grew freely here and there waa plenty of soft grass on the ground. Still, the guards in the area gave their hostile looks, all of them looked like they'd been in some kind of brutal conflict. Kayla whispered to Vulpe, "The children you saw fighting the Drones... some of them are much more gifted in wielding heavy weapons and armor. Those children become these men and women around you, Honor Guards. Very strong and very bad attitudes... that's the one way to some it up." From the circle came a young Leanorian, only eleven years of age, she looked at the group with a smile. "High Warrior Priestess Leona has given you permission to enter. Please come with me." At these words the guards relaxed a little but that did not stop them from herding the group intot the circle.
For everyone inside the circle, there would be a bright flash and they'd find themselves in a massive courtyard. Brilliant, white-stone, romanesque structures were all around them. There was a field of grass and a few gardens as well as some pathways that led to and around the central structure. A large silvery building that was an oblong, semi-cone in shape. There was only one entrance and four guards were standign near it. The doors opened and a Leanorian dressed in white clothign came forth. She looked to Pegasus and strode over to the group.
Immediately, Viloet kneeled, followed by Kayla and Pegasus. Violet kept her eyes focused on the ground, "High Warrior Priestess Leona. Thankyou for accepting my request." She looked over the group with gentle, blue eyes.

Vulpe bowed immediately at the sight of the High Priestess, noticing the others kneeling but declining to do so. Some actions meant different things in different cultures, and it would not be suitable for him to kneel to her, being of power though she may be. After a time he straightened up, orange eyes still downcast. "Many thanks to the High Warrior Priestess Leona for allowing a humble diplomat into her area of domain." he intoned. "I am truly honored to be here." He had not gotten a good look at the Priestess, but she seemed to be more or less like all the other Leanorians.

Leona's eyes focused on Vulpe as he bowed and spoke while the others kneeled. It wasn't typical, he was not aware of Leanorian traditions, but this didn't matter to her. SHe herself wasa soldier from time to time and she acted the same way from time to time. Her blue eyes watched him closely, it was rare that an outsider was allowed into such a place. The others soon were back up on their feet, though only violet was looking directly at Leona, "High Warrior-" Leona interupted Violet, "PLease, no titles are needed. I am Leona, that goes for all of you. And your gaze need only be averted when around the Honor Guards, I am not as strict." Pegasus looked over to her, "It's quite an honor... Leona. I'm sorry if I sound awkward but I don't often call higher ups by their first names..." Leona gave a gentle smile, she looked like most other Leanorian but had lighter fur. She also had longer hair that the others, hair that started blond but went brown and went down to her shoulders. Her clothing was also different, it was far more... exposing, mainly only covering what needed to be covered and not much else. Typical Warrior Priestess garb was like this, light wieght for combat purposes. "Xiscapian," she said to Vulpe, "It has been some time since I saw your kind... it is good to see that your kind have finally discovered Greywatch so that we can talk." Her words were honest and gentle. She looked to Kayla, "A warrior? It has been some time since a typical warrior was allowed into this area." Kayla looked away, "Yes, Priestess Leona, it has been some time...." Leona placed her hand on Kayla's shoulder ever so gently before looking to Pegasus, "And you, you would be one of the few non-Leanorians to set foot here." Pegasus nodded, "Yes, I am indeed honored." Leona looked over the group again, "What brings you all here?" Violet looked at Leona, "Well we were having a tour... and we made a stop at the war grounds and saw Red... we thought it might be good to show Vulpe," she pointed to Vulpe, "more of our culture." Leona nodded, "I see, well this is quite welcome." SHe led them to the main structure with a slow walk, if they wanted to ask questions before going inside, now was the time.

"High Warrior Priestess-" Vulpe fumbled his words, caught himself, and plunged forward, "er, Leona. My sincerest apologies for my, ah, bow. In my culture I am forbidden to kneel to anyone or anything excepting very special occasions that have been clearly defined. I can only offer you my regret if I have offended you in this manner." He waited anxiously, oblivious to his own babbling.

Leona didn't face Vulpe as he spoke, "Calm yourself," she said, "I am a soldier and many times I have also dropped the rules. You aren't expected to know all of the Leanorian traditions so I will not hold it against you." She turned to face him with a smile, "So, you met my husband? Can I assume he gave you a good show?"

"Very much so," Vulpe nodded, relieved. "Redemption's power over Cryptic abilities is amazing. I think he is a good teacher, from what I saw." He looked back briefly to Pegasus, Kayla and Violet, then to Leona. "He also referred me to you about...something. Do you remember a recent battle, well relatively recent, involving Chaos demons? Several other nations were involved, there was a couple of beings there who identified themselves as kitsune from Xiscapia?" He gave her a searching look. "Do you recall that?"

Leona gave a slightly saddened look. Immidiately Pegasus looked to Violet and Kayla, "Perhaps you two could show me around? Especially you Violet." Violet smiled at him, "Come on, this way." She led Pegasus and Kayla down another path. Leona smiled, "Pegasus... always one who knows when to leave someone in privacy." Her smile disapeared quickly, "Chaos demons, we went there to clear up a disturbance... we met a few other nations..." He closed her eyes, "You can stop looking for them, for all I know they're dead." She paused, "Along with several of my own and other soldiers..."

"They're dead?!" Vulpe gasped in shock. "No, that can't be right, that's not right at all. We'd know if they perished, you can't hide it. If they died, then what became of their bodies and possessions they had with them?" He shook his head. "We've searched all over that world, and there's no sign of them, we found nothing but their ship. How," he said desperately, "do you think they died? Did you see it?"

She grabbed Vulpe, "Of course you didn't find anything!" Her teeth were bared and her claws half-retracted, "A rift opened up, it took many people with it. They were among the people taken," she let him go, calming herself, "I lost many sisters on that day, along with so many others..." She turned away, "I have no idea where they are, most likely some kind of hell. As I said, they may as well be dead."

Vulpe was startled by the reaction of the Leanorian, stepped backwards. "So they went straight there without dying in between..." he muttered. "But we still know they're alive..." He paused. "They're in the Warp," he said to her, "so your sisters might still be alive. If they're normal people, they would have transformed into energy on contact. But those with great power can survive, we think...that must be it. But they all must be in terrible pain, horrible agony as they try to avoid the daemons and otherworldly things that prowl that field of Reality." He looked at Leona. "We know no way of retrieving them. They may never emerge, if it's even possible."

Vulpe had what he wanted, but he felt no better for it. The Warp. Was there a worse possible place? Why couldn't they have avoided it, why were they brought in? Why, he wondered, did they have to suffer so much, after all they had been though?

"I'm sorry... for your loss and my reaction. My god... the other soldiers are probably all dead... my sisters... I don't know how many may have survived... the Drones. The FM, they have to know something... perhaps the Drones in this Warp still have hive-mind. Hopefully. For now, I have to contact Shadow..." She paused, "We must get the others," with that a guard stepped forward to retreive Pegasus and company, "After we're done here I will contact Shadow. If anyone knows how to get our people back it would be him..."

Vulpe nodded. "We can only hope," he said grimly. "All of our attempts to contact them have failed. We wouldn't even know how to begin extracting them from the field." He gave a slight bow to Leona. "You have done a great service to myself the the Kitsune Empire. My thanks."
He looked to Pegasus, Kayla and Violet as they approached. "So! What is there to see here?" Vulpe was somewhat relieved, but still worried. Could it be any worse for the Emperor and Empress, to know their niece and nephew were alive but in excruciating pain? However, now that he had the information he needed, that part of the mission was closed, and he was not authorized to pursue it further. He needed to get on with what he was here for.
That being, of course, continuing the tour.

Leona gave a slight nod as the others came back, the guard behind them. Pegasus shrugged to Vulpe's comment, "I think we can only see what Leona wants to show us. The guards here really don't like outsiders... even Violet can't persuade them." Leona smiled, "Well, this is an important location to the Leanorian race, come." She turned to face the large entrance she had first come out of the meet the group, it slowly opened reveiling a dark hall inside. She led the group in, down a short entrance/hallway, past several guards, into a central chamber. There was a glowing light in the center of the chamber and the walls were covered in ancient runes. Special glowing blue runes marked the resting places of past heros. Leona looked around the room and then turned to the group, "This is the resting place of our past heros. The sacred Mausoleum." There were only two guards in the chamber, but they were definately different from the others. Both had glowing blue runes on their arms and legs, a pair of white wings, and white flaming eyes.
Leona took a look at both of them, "These are... one of the ultimate defenses. The sheer amount of Cryptic energy in this place can begin to change the body. This is what ultimately happens to those who have trained for years in the Cryptic auras of the fallen." Pegasus looked to the guards, both of them seemed to be completely unaware of anyone's presence. Pegsus knew better, these were probably the most dangerous creatures on this planet, "So, what are they?" Leona looked to him, "They are two ordinary Leanorians whose power was so amplified that they ultimately became the creatures you see before you. They are nearly the avatars of the fallen within the mausoleum. To some extent."

"Their dedication must be great," Vulpe observed. The power was coiling and rolling in this place like waves in an angry storm, and the kitsune felt his spirit like a piece of wood drifting in the tides. Vulpe spread a hand. "Who, exactly, lies at rest here? Can you tell me their stories?"

"It takes more than dedication to do what they do, the power they have absorbed is quite capable of driving many to madness. Often times we have to force them to fight, to burn off some of the energy which they have gathered. The runes on their arms and legs are meant to store extra power in case of an attack." She decided not to go any further on the topic of the two figures. Instead she addressed Vulpe's question, "To be honest, not even I know everyone who lies inside these walls. And to go over every story would take a long time... but I can share with you some of the stories I know." She led the group to a wall, several urns were grouped here, each one radiating with a great amount of cryptic energy.
She pointed to one of the urns, "In this urn are the ashes of Lord Greywatch. An Elden who passed away some fifty years ago." Pegasus lokoed on in amazement, "I thought he was only a legend..." Leona shook here head, "No, he existed. The first Greyknight and founder of the first Greywatch. He was also the very same man who gave your race the idea to name their home Greywatch." Pegasus turned away for a moment, "So these Greyknights... they aren't simple legend?" Leona smiled, "I can imagine the government has never told you. Many archiologists and historians have found proof of the Greyknights, this man was the first of those warriors. We never had the chance to meet him but his Elden kin told us much about him. He was one of the first Elden the humans came into contact with. He was the reason that the city and eventually the empire was called Greywatch. The original Greywatch was established by his grandfather, it was destroyed by demons, and Lord Greywatch rebuilt it after he became a Greyknight." Pegasus was silent, these were not things he was told by the government, it made sense, he was only a diplomat. But there was so much to learn from the Leanorians.
Leona moved to another wall, this one had glowing runes covering it. She pointed to a grouping of runes, "Here lies the body of Sa'karr the Beast, an infamous Leanorian bandit. Many wonder why we keep such a man in our midst, even though he killed many people mercilessly and led one of the largest and most feared bandit groups on this world, we have to respect him. He is the only Leanorian who could ever use dark Cryption. Whether it was through a dark ritual, natural talent, or some kind of curse, we have to recognize him as being great in some sense. He also reminds us of why we fight against demons, both those external and those within."
Leona then pointed to a group of runes just above the group she'd finished talking about. "Kir, the hand of Heaven. One of the greatest Leanorian priests in our history. We found his crypt one hundred years ago and shortly after decided to move his body here so as to prevent graverobbers, amoung other things, from stealing the corpse. His corpse was mummified and his tomb marked with runes to tell his story. He lived, by our calculations, to be about five hundred years of age and died about 1200 years ago. From what we read in his tomb, he was a great healer and warrior. Though he could only fight with a staff and was not as strong as many other warriors, he was very lithe. Apparently, any allies who stood near him regrew lost limbs and were healed by his very aura." Leona paused for a moment, "These are just a few of the stories. To my knowledge there are about seventy bodies and one hundred urns in this chamber. Which is why it overflows with power."

Vulpe looked down at the staff in his hands at the mention of the deftness it was wielded in the hands of the Hand of Heaven. He had the strangest feeling, but he decided it should be acted on.
"I know you said none of your people ever met this Greyknight Lord Greywatch," he said, "but have you found or possess any descriptions of his physical body?"

Vulpe felt deeply honored. Such a man as Lord Greywatch would certainly have been powerful, and the entire nation could trace their roots to him. And he, Vulpe, was being told this, something apparently most even in Greywatch did not know. Lord Greywatch was the father of an entire nation, and this planet was only part of it. Amazing.

The kitsune understood why Sa'karr the Beast was here as well. Such power and abilities held something for the Leanorian race, even if the one who possessed it was a bloodthirsty killer. It was good to have a reminder to serve as a warning and teaching tool to others. Vulpe wondered if the dark power was a curse. From the gods, though, or mortals? And who would have given such a wicked being such power, unless it was a gift?

Such a rich culture. So much to learn, so much to know.

"As far as we know," started Leona, "He was a what some would refer to as a necromancer... he always had a sort of sickly look to him, even when he was healthy. A dark gray hair, pale skin... not the friendliest looking of people. But it was to be expected... I don't suppose you know what a Greyknight is exactly... do you? I have more records of him in my own quarters. I imagine the Elden also keep plenty of records on the man, the council too. It's all a matter of knowing where to look. But, come to my office, I believe I can find something there." She led the group to her quarters, a well sized room with a desk, bed, and quite a few bookshelves. There were aso some chests in the room, no telling what someone like Leona kept under lock and key. She went through her bookshelf before pulling out a book and flipping through. "I should have a picture for you in a moment..."
There was a soft light that filtered in through a single window. The rest of the room was lit by glowing crystals that seemed to grow from the walls themselves, the crystals seemed to respond to Leona's movement. They gre brighter as she approached them and dimmer as she moved away.

Vulpe waited patiently. To his understanding, a necromancer raised the dead. This could be a good thing, in resurrecting the unjustly dead to living, or it could very well mean the man could build an army of undead ghouls if he wanted to. It could, the kitsune supposed, be both. He also knew that Redemption and his fellow Nightshade had been referred to as Greyknights, though exactly what this meant was a mystery to him.

He examined the crystals on the walls thoughtfully. On Xiscapia they had Guilda crystals, power storing devices which could, on the appropriate influence, be commanded to release their power. For the Xiscapians they were everything from light to electricity to starship fuel. However, they didn't react to the presence of a person or people, which these did. Si wondered if there was any relation, or if the ones he saw now were Cryptic crystals, or had been Cryptically influenced in some way.

Leona found what she was looking for and, while holding the book in her left hand, moved her right over the page. The words disapeared from the page and an image formed. In front of them was a picture of Lord Greywatch, like a painting done without paint, but instead pure Cryptic energies. "This is Lord Greywatch. At least that is what the Elden told us when they gave us this book."

OOC: http://i242.photobucket.com/albums/ff28/greyknightghost/LordGreywatch.jpg

Vulpe examined the picture carefully. "He does not look that sickly," he commented, exploring the rest of the picture now. "Two questions: What are all the tattoos on his body? Cryptic markings? And what does the image on the stained glass window behind him represent? Do you know?"
Privately Vulpe thought the thing looked a bit menacing, like the Grim Reaper minus the scythe but with a snout of some sort.

"They probably got his good side," said Pegasus, "No offense but I don't think I could be left alone with this guy. Something doesn't seem right." Leona put the book on her desk, "Yes, indeed. Necromancy is forbidden, it's a distasteful art that we Leanorians are against." She looked to Vulpe, "Those weren't tattoos, Vulpe. They were red for a reason, they were scars. It's something necromancers do, they carve symbols into their very flesh. Why, I couldn't tell you, it's not something I want to know." Violet gave a look at the picture, "A citadel, perhaps from the original Greywatch? Is that what that was?" Leona nodded, "When he rebuilt Greywatch thousands of years ago, he did so by capturing a demonic citadel, killing all the demons inside. He then used his undead minions to begin rebuilding the city. No one knows how he got so many people to come to the city and thus ressurect it, but it was done." She then pointed to the figure in the strained glass, "I don't know exactly, but I do believe that is a Twilight Demon god."

Vulpe nodded in agreement with Pegasus. "I share your sentiments," he said dryly. "Religious or tribal body mutilation...hmm. So he killed all the demons, then used them to rebuild the city they had destroyed?" He laughed. "How fittingly ironic! This man does interest me. What was he like, in life? Does your book say? Great deeds often overshadow the men themselves who accomplish them."

Leona gave a grim smile, "From the descriptions... he was a broken man. A Greyknight may be powerful, but it is not anything one wants to become. To become a creature of that power requires great amounts of sacrifice. The demons were only a few of the puppets, many of the undead used to rebuild the city were the fallen soldiers who had marched with him to assault the fortress." She looked back to the book, "In most cases he was friendly... but he was monster, when angered, his wrath was something to fear. He often locked himself away to research new ways to slaughter and control his enemies. As one passage in the book said, 'His voice was the sweetest of venoms. Before you knew it, you belonged to him, body and soul.' We also know he established a guild of necromancy later on... Believe me, no one forgot him. Knowledge about him was not allowed to spread. Despite the fact that he lived long enough to name an empire 'Greywatch,' the Elden made sure that very few learned the true history of this man. With good reason."
Pegasus felt like something had grabbed him right then, to think that Greywatch bore the name of such an individual was a little much to take in. Someone that even the Elden feared, he could understand why this was kept a secret. He wondered if the council knew as much about this as the Leanorians did.

"Why 'Greywatch'?" Vulpe asked curiously. "I realize he named it after himself, but does it hold any further meaning? It merely seems a curious thing to be named...but there is one thing I don't understand. You said he established a guild of necromancery, and no one forgot him. Yet he did not allow knowledge of himself to spread, and his Elden brethern furthered this by suppressing all information on Lord Greywatch and his past. What became, then, of this guild, and why did he not allow knowledge of himself to spread?"

Leona gave a glance to the book and then to Vulpe, "Well, Lord Greywatch as I said was a monster and wasn't really one to spread his own story. Admitting you care so little about your own kind that you use their corpses to build cities isn’t a great way to get respect. I really don’t think he himself wanted his story to be spread; as for his guild, it wouldn’t surprise me if a lot of the members were apart of the current organization: The Forbidden Ministry. The name itself was used because... Well this ties to the Greyknights themselves. Gray being the color between black and white, darkness and light. Greyknights are beings that have been killed by demons and then again by a third party. This of course requires resurrection... Red, he looks like a normal person, minus the eyes, at first glance. He became a Greyknight because he was killed by demons only to be brought back as their personal weapon against his own kind, he was then killed again and brought back by Dragons. Three bloods, the dragon that brought him back was also a master of light-based Cryption, a silver Dragon I believe. Light, Darkness... white and black, dragon and demon... add Elden, which is supposed to be a being which stands neutral... well you get the picture."
She waved her hand over the pages of the book causing the image to vanish. "Please know I'm giving an abbreviated version of the story... Despite Red, known as Crimson all those years ago, not being the first 'Greyknight,' he was the reason why the title was created. From that point on, Lord Greywatch decided to call himself and all others who suffered his fate Greyknights, people who were both blessed and cursed. If you were to spell it out, you'd notice Greywatch and Greyknight are both spelled with an 'e' instead of an 'a,' that's because-" Pegasus cut her off, "That was his way of saying he was the first Greyknight. Correct?" Leona gave a slight nod, “And that eventually the trend passed on to Greywatch itself.” Pegasus continued, “When Greywatch was created from the refugees of New Heaven, we vowed that we would not be like the people we ran from. We would not judge others at a glance and jump into fights that did not have anything to do with us. That we’d be neutral and ‘in the gray.’ And so of course-” Kayla stepped in this time, “Your nation became known as Greywatch. Gray being neutral, Greywatch spelled with an ‘e’ to help once again give kudos to Lord Greywatch. Clever bastard.” Pegasus smiled, “Funny thing is, that was only half the reason we agreed to the name…”

Vulpe nodded. Just like the Elden home... "Balance." he said aloud. "All about Balance. Not Good, not Evil, not Light or Dark, not Angel or Demon. You said Greyknights are both blessed and cursed: Are they immortal?" he inquired curiously. Only one kind of being was immortal in Xiscapian culture, and even they grew tired and past on when they decided to. At least they had an out: To live forever could easily turn from a gift to a curse, as one would see friends and family perish, entire governments and even worlds pass away, to be alone on the universe.

"Yes, they are an earthbound race of warriors. Unending, even in death... Even in death they are not truly gone. Many can self-ressurect themselves. The maximum amount of time a Greyknight remains dead is two years... then they naturally reform." She looked away, "The only difference between Greyknights and the Elden are that the Elden can be killed in a permenant sense. I actually believe that Lord Greywatch is somehow keeping himself dead, though I'm not sure why or how."

Vulpe slowly allowed his gaze to slid back towards the door leading to the tombs, and shuddered slightly. An ancient Lord Greywatch arising from the dead so abruptly would be a horrible experience.
"But..." Vulpe persisted. "Surely it's not possible to continually reform, with modern technology? When an object can be broken down beyond it's componet atoms it no longer exists in it's previous form, nor can it ever. Or is it the power of the soul? Does the soul bring the parts together to make a whole once more?" He shook his head. "I know of immortal beings, you can't swing a dead cat in this galaxy without hitting half a dozen of them, but I've never heard of such reforming."

"That's Cryption for you. Greyknight have achieved the highest form of it, or so it seems. And Greyknights are difficult to study because their are so few of them, I'm sure you can understand why. This goes into a science I'm not really all that comfortable with explaining, partly because I don't fully understand it, and partly because your an outsider. If you had talked to anyone else, you would not have even gotten so far as to step inside this building. I've already broken many of the rules... I can't risk breaking any more of them. But remember this, what the Greyknights use is not technology, nor is it modern. It's ancient magic."

Vulpe immediately bowed his head. "My apologies for my intrusion. I did not realize you were violating any rules of conduct for us. I do not deserve such treatment," he looked up to Pegasus, Violet and Kayla. "we will leave now. Please accept my most contrite remorse for having imposed upon you and taken time from you." He gave a very deep bow to Leona, holding it for over five seconds before straightening up and turning to leave.

Leona smiled, "No, no need to apologize. I'm the one who allowed you all in here." Pegasus bowed, "And we're greatful for that. But will you be okay? I know the Leanorian council can be strict in regards to things like this." She began leading them out of the structure, "As my husband puts it, 'You're not breaking the rules until someone calls you on it.'" Pegasus gave a small smile, "Well, whatever you say..." As soon as they set foot outside they were met by the sight of three other Leanorian official. Each one in armor, standing side-by-side. Kayla took one look and froze, "Shit, this is not good... Vulpe, stand behind us, don't make any eye contact with them." Pegasus looked to her, "Who are the-" he was cut off as one of the Leanorians spoke, "Well Leona, what have you to say for yourself?" Leona walked ahead of the group, "I don't know what that means."
"You've broken the rules, sister. Allowing outsiders into this holy area."
"Have I? I'm sorry."
"I will not have your disrespect, your rank be damned."
"Your intrusion be damned."
"I see. You will not even listen to the envoys of the coun-"
"The enyoys have nothing of value for me to hear. Only the bickering of schoolgirls."
"The Leanorian high council wishes to know why you have done this."
"They're friends." As Leona said this, the three looked to the other group, particularly at Vulpe. The lead speaker, a young male with an eye patch and quite a few scars across his face, snarled at them. "Leave," he said coldly, pointing to the portal they had used to get there in the first place, "And know that if any outsiders ever step here again, diplomatic immunity will be null and void." Leona gave a cold look as she looked forward, "Don't you dare threaten them. I let them up here and it is my responsibility."
"I'm doing my job because you're incapable of doing yours."
"I'll have you know if you dare threaten someone in my graces like that again, you will not be walking away intact. This is my ground, and I will do as I please. If you don't like that, then go to your precious high Leanorian council and have me demoted. Until then, leave."
"You have no say on my actions, we will speak further in your quarters." He looked to the group again, "LEAVE!"

Vulpe suddenly felt angry. How they dare threaten them, just like those bandit scum they had met outside the city? Him, a peaceful diplomat? Being such a person, however, the Xiscapian kept his feelings in check and bowed low. "My apologies, we were just leaving," he said blandly, shown to not be intimidated by the larger Leanorian but refusing to make eye contact. He didn't want to cause any more trouble for Leona then he already had, but he would not allow himself to be pushed around by these thugs. Turning his back with a flick of his tail and the slightest warning sign of the flattening of the ears, Vulpe strode towards the portal, ramming his staff into the dirt as if it has personally offended him.

Pegasus and company took no time in making their way to the portal. Kayla espescially made sure to keep herself from being seen, she was soldier, and the man currently arguing with Leona was a general. Kayla did not need that kind of attention. Meanwhile, the other two Leanorians stayed silent. As they all stepped into the portal they would only see Leona followed by the other three into the mausoleum.
When they were back on the ground, Kayla immediately began walking off, "Sorry, but I need to get out of here. If that guy finds out I was up there... a soldier, not a priestess, I'm done for. It was good meeting you, Vulpe." She bowed and ran off. Violet nodded to Vulpe, "It was good meetnig you, I don't mean to sound rude but I think the tour here is done. There's not much else to show you, sorry it ended on such a sour note." Pegasus led Vulpe out of the portal, "This was an unfortunant turn of events.... Violet, where are you going?" Violet smiled, "I'm a priestess so I'm going back up. Hope to see you again soon, bye." She said cheerfully as she disappeared into a flash of light.
Pegasus gave a deep sigh, "Well then. Sorry about that, please, don't be too cross with him. The Leaorians are very... they consider certain areas to be holy ground reserved for the special few. Typically the only ones allowed in the garden or the mausoleum are those who follow a special path." He paused for a moment, "I should have said something... I should have known better but I figured as long as we had Leona's permission nothing like this could happen..." He began to lead Vulpa out of the area, back to a waiting transport, "Well, the choice is yours. We can stop here, or we can see the next world... or worlds rather. We still have three more captial planets to cover, and we may want to stop for something to eat."

Vulpe swallowed hard, shaking his head. "Pegasus, there is something you must understand," he said quietly, seeming deeply troubled. "We came frighteningly close to disaster in there. If those Leaorians had detained, wounded or killed me for anything less than open hostility on my part it could have started a war between our people. Xiscapia is feeling very protective of it's Ambassadors at the moment, that is why I was so intent on leaving once I found out we were not authorized to be there. Recently a diplomat was sent aboard a ship in a fleet belonging to a nation we had considered an ally. However, once aboard the Admiral detained and then murdered the Ambassador because of his xenophobic views. Even now plans are being drawn up in the Kitsune Empire to bring this nation to it's knees. Xiscapia would accept nothing less than total surrender from Greywatch if anything were to happen to me while I am here. I understand there was no way you could have foreseen those events, but tensions at home are already high and it would take little to ignite them into a conflict. I cannot permit myself to be taken into places which are considered holy ground, classified premises or a restricted area in case those there take offense to my presence."

"Mmm, don't worry about them. Despite his words, the one who was threatening us was doing just that, threatening. Hollow threats to be exact. In Leanorian law, high ranking officials like Leona are the ones who determine who goes in and out of holy ground. The military, of course, hates this idea, claiming it weakens the nation as a whole. The Leanorian military is actually one of the biggest groups of prideful bullies in Greywatch, second only to te Kiixori." Pegasus gave a slight cough, "And due to our laws, the ones who commit offenses are the ones put on trial. The entire empire refuses to be blamed for a single man's actions."

Vulpe shrugged. "That's what the nation of the murdering Admiral said, too. They refused to hand him over, claiming he had gone into hiding, and promised a full apology and financial compensation, which we have yet to receive. They said they were not to be blamed for what happened, but the entire fleet went along with him, and afterward they tried to lie and put us in the wrong. Sometimes it is hard to discern between a lone psychopath and malicious intent though deceit."

He seemed to brighten. "But that is neither here nor there. What are my options of travel next?"

"Why does this sound like something New Heaven would do...? Nevermind that. Well we have the Kiioxri homeworld... and I'm sure they haven't forgotten the 'trespass' yet so I'd rather hold off on that visit. Then there's Greywatch Prime itself and the Xarniosi homeworld. Now then, to be frank, the Xarniosi are the not a group I know too much about. They are isolationist and like to be very secretive. They participate in almost no Greywatch affairs and are really only apart of the empire because of the protection we've promised them... but they are patient and don't seem to take offense from anything. Might be interesting. But it's really up to you."

Vulpe considered this. "Our order should probably be Greywatch Prime, then Xarniosi and finally Kiioxri, if this is acceptable to you. In the meantime, though, you said something about food? I haven't eaten since I left my base ship, and I'd be delighted to try some cuisine of Greywatch." He smiled.

"Okay then, that sounds fine. Greywatch Prime should be... it should be late afternoon, not a bad time to see the city. I'll just have to find a good resturaunt so we're not stuck eating fast-food, unless of course you like fast-food. I just like to keep my options open."

Vulpe shrugged again. "Whatever you choose is fine with me," he responded amiably. "I am sure the capitol has many fares to offer and I am not picky, so feel free to choose your favorite eatery, if you have one there."

"Okay then." Pegasus pulled out a small device form his pocket about the size of a cell phone and pushed a button. The next moment they were both on the bridge of a Greywatch ship in orbit, the Worldslayer passing 'over' them. A man looked back to them, apparently the captain, "Ah, you both made it here. Initiate PSR." On screen, one could see a a rift, like the maw of a massive beast, open in front of the ship. The ship promptly entered and repeated the process of dissapearig from reality for a split second. Then it was over a large blue planet, on screen one could see two large continents. One of the continents was completely covering in light. There were orbital stations, weapons platforms, hangers, trading posts... all of which hung over the planet. Numerous smaller ships flew by in the thousands, each one with some purpose. Worldslayers could be seen patrolling the space above the planet, all of them looking more like gentle giants than war machines. "Well here we are." Pegasus said with a smile.
The sun could be seen, slowly disapearing behind the planet. "Well, what do you think? That city below us takes us more than three forths of the main continent. That's where we'll be headed."

"I have never seen anything like that," Vulpe nodded down to the myriad of flashing, dancing lights obscuring the entire continent below. "We possess only orbital satellites and a few space stations and orbital platforms, nothing like that. Incidentally, what is the city we will be traveling to called, and why is it so huge? We're no strangers to large metropolises (metropolisii?) but most races have different reasons for achieving such a grand sprawl."

On Xiscapia the number of marked cities was just over a dozen on the entire planet, but they were extremely large, housing tens of millions of sentients. Otherwise the world was covered in much smaller towns, villages and small nomadic tribes which made up most of it's population. Most other worlds under the control of the Kitsune Empire were similar, though most did not have the enormous population or land size the cities of Xiscapia did.

"Well the city below us does happen to house about 2.5 billion people. Its the largest city, also known as Greywatch Prime. And before you say anything, we were not creative and original when we first started this new world. Anyway, that's Greywatch central district. Big metropolis... has just about everything but is mainly dedicated to government and foriegn afairs. We'll be in the southern district, entertainment. Which also happens to have a lot of good resteraunts." Pegasus looked to the different orbital platforms, "Though, one must remember that Greywatch Prime has to act as a melting pot for six different races. There's a lot of trade, politics, people, and everything else to take care of. As for the weapons platforms... we have a neighbor which has attacked us four or five different times and we don't like to take chances."

Vulpe grinned at Pegasus's words about not being creative or original when they named the world. "Perfectly understandable about the weapons platforms. Everyone needs defenses...who would these neighbors of yours be?" he asked curiously. He wondered if it was like with the Alversians and the Danaversians: The Danaversians would continually invade Alversian territory or breech the DMZ, and the Alversians would repel them at great loss of life. But the Alversians would never end the problem, never cross the DMZ and destroy their enemy. They would fight them to the DMZ line and no further. After being attacked so many times it would make sense to go and annihilate your enemy...
Wouldn't it?

"New Heaven. Greywatch was founded by people who did not believe in the Emperor of New Heaven. Long story short, the Emperor thought we were heretics because we fled to a new world, and so they attacked us. Great thing is that the people who built their ships were amoung the people who fled. We repel them time after time but never bother to crush them, even though we probably could. We maintain a shaky but peaceful relationship, mainly based on trade. They don't allow any other races into their borders, only humans. They haven't bothered us in a while though, probably because they had to face off against Kiixori and Xarniosi the last time they tried." He paused for a moment, "The Leanorians are newest members to the Greywatch Empire. To be perfectly honest, we met them about twelve years ago. We've known the Xarniosi for about thirty years now. And we've known the Kiixori for over one hundred years."

"Quite some time, then," Vulpe nodded. "My people have known most of our allies for less than a decade now. But I do not understand your reasoning with this 'New Heaven.' Why don't you annihilate them as a threat once and for all if you could so easily? Is their trade that important, or do you feel some sort of connection with your former home that would make you loath to destroy it?" Vulpe wondered at this. Perhaps it was because Xiscapia had so many enemies and one less was only an improvement, but if they had a foe at their feet they would not hesitate to crush him. They did not understand just leaving an opponent be to recover his strength for another assault. By no means were they bloodthirsty or cruel, they did not kill innocents for their affiliation with their enemy or execute POWs, but an enemy was an enemy, and should be treated as such.

"Well we don't exactly condone Genocide. And anything less wouldn't guarantee the destruction of New Heaven. We've stunted their growth, they only have one or two planets in their control. They also need us more than we need them so they aren't going to attack us, or so we hope. Though their emperor looks down on the individuals of Greywatch, he has to look up to us as a whole. Also, they don't have the capacity to create Worldslayers, so we have a massive tactical advantage."

"Ah," Vulpe nodded wisely. "A crippled enemy. We are in a similar situation ourselves. A nation that was once an enemy of ours...well, it's a long story and most of it doesn't bear telling, but they dissected one of our fighter pilots alive while she was a prisoner of war. This infuriated the Xiscapian people and we readied a war fleet to destroy their home planet, but they had apparently fled, evacuated as many people as they could and slaughtered the rest. Eventually we found ourselves in possession of this world, and the remnants of those who escaped asked for their home back. We granted it with conditions, and at the moment they are entirely under our control, a vassal to use a somewhat tasteless word. We do not hold with xenocide either, it is one of the Great Atrocities along with rape and slavery, and we've found there's more than one way of defeating a foe without killing every last one of them."

"I see," Pegasus said without an expression. The ship they were on continued forward until it reached a docking bay. "Yes, it is a shame such things must happen, but you never know what to expect in the universe." There was a soft banging sound as AG locks began clamping down on the ship to hold it in place. "Well it sounds like we're ready to begin the tour of Greywatch." He looked to the captain, "Could you please contact the surface and have them open a blink scape to the Southern District?" The captain nodded to comms and it was made so. "We'll be leaving shortly." A few moments later the blink scape was set up the two were on the surface. They were in one of the many welcome stations in the city. The place looked more or less like an airport; seats, lounges, stores, food courts and so on. The place was fairly crowded as people went to and from blink platforms. "Well, here we are." No one seemed to notice the two, people were always coming and going. Pegasus led him down a large corridor and outside where they would find themselves on a large walkway, 20 stories off the ground. Large buildings were all around them, casinos, billboards, massive holo screen advertisments lit up the area. Large skyways and monorail systems weeved around buildings. "So, first thoughts?" People shuffled by, talking, laughing, and havign a good time. It wasn't exactly quiet in this district, there was plenty of traffic and lots of people, like a futuristic mini-Las Vegas.

Vulpe shrugged. What was he supposed to say? "It's like," he looked around him, noting the architecture, people, advertisements and monorail system, "all the cities I've seen on the worlds I've visited with bits taken out and put together into a different city. Well, most of them, anyway," he added thoughtfully. "It must take an enormous amount of imports and trade to keep Greywatch Prime functioning. I assume the rest of the continent or one of the others is devoted to farming and general agriculture?"

"Yes, food is quite an issue with a city of this size. But Greywatch has been practicing biological manipulation for a long time. I can only imagine that helps, making food grow faster an such. We also have a planet dedicated to agriculture. Trade on the other hand is done between the different races and also helps the economy. We've been trying to expand trade to other nations but that isn't always easy, you never know what's out there and you don't want to end up involved with the wrong people."
Pegasus led them along a walkway as he spoke. After about a minute they came to a circular pad. Pegasus stepped on it and beckoned Vulpe to follow, once they were both on Pegasus selected a location from a holoscreen and the two were once again blinked to another location. This one was at ground level but still had everything you'd expect in an entertainment district. Pegasus led Vulpe to the entranceway of a large building. A single Drone stood outside, dressed in white. Upon spotting the two it dtepped out of their way, "Table for two, reserved, 11th floor." Pegasus nodded, "Thankyou." After entering Pegasus proceded with Vulpe to an elevator which took them to the 11th floor, when the doors opened they were greeted by the sight of a large room. The dining area of a medium-high class restaraunt. Immediately after stepping out they were led to their table, gentle music was being played in the background. It looked like any other up scale restaraut, and it was, nothing too special. It was just a typical, upscale Greywatch restaraut. There were other people chatting in the room, few had looked up at the pair's entry, those who did found the Xiscapian curious, but only because they'd never seen one before. "Well, nothing too fancy, but better than fast food in my opinion. Sorry if I led you too quickly."

"Not at all, not at all," Vulpe waved a hand airily, looking around. So far, at a basic culture and presentation of Greywatch humans, who Vulpe assumed were the primary race on Greywatch Prime, we reassuringly normal and not at all alien, excepting the Drone at the door. "Trade is important, but should be treated with as much caution as one would approach war. A nation could easily bring any other nation to it's knees though economical manipulation without firing a shot. We were, once. As for food, Xiscapia has parts of all planets reserved for agriculture and the raising of animals for for foodstuffs. Hunger has never threatened even the poorest of our population." He said proudly.

"Very true indeed, and planets dedicated to feeding the populace must be heavily guarded. It is a shame that something that seems so beneficial can also destroy a nation from the inside, but that is the nature of this world. You can never rely to heavily upon any one party or you may find yourself in trouble. And may I say it is very impressive that you have been able to erase poverty. That is still something we are trying to accomplish, we're oh so close... but it's difficult to get to every edge of this city. Especially in places like the Undercity..."
OOC: Menu coming soon...

Vulpe grimaced slightly. "It would be wrong to say we've erased it. Everyone has enough to eat, true, but there's still those who struggle to make ends meet and crime is still a problem. Our welfare program is extremely effective, but it's not perfect and some simply don't choose to partake. People are fickle, I'll never know how states like the Alversians got it right." He sighed. "Alversia is our closest and oldest ally," he said by way of explanation, "and I have seen her cities. Everyone lives well, at least middle-class status, there's almost no crime, there's always enough food, droids do much of the work, and most of the citizens couldn't be happier." He shrugged. "Anyway, the people here all seem happy and content, from what I've seen. I take it the Undercity is a bit of a rough part of town, perhaps underground or what the rest of Greywatch Prime is built on, and harbors the poor, criminal elements and the like?"

"That's amazing," Pegasus said when Vulpe explained Alversian society, "That is quite a feat. I would love to know how they managed getting that to happen. It almost seems as if one would have to bypass every natural impulse and instict to accomplish that." He paused for a moment thinking about how to explain the Undercity. "Well you have the slums... which is where most of the poor are. These are the places where we do food drives and give aid. The Undercity is a combonation of things, its a series of natural caverns, some sucken ruins of the original Greywatch which took damage from the wars with New Heaven, and sewer systems. It indeed harbors many gang and criminals, the most dangerous in Greywatch. I've only heard stories about what goes on down there and they haven't been pretty. These gangs have struck up here before but they are kept well under control by various... security methods... I hope one day we can get rid of the activity down there but that may take a long time. Crime is something that doesn't appear to stop."

"I wouldn't rule out brainwashing," chuckled Vulpe, knowing any Alversian would be horrified at the mere suggestion. "But crime does seem to be a intricate part of sapient nature. We have a city on Xiscapia, called Tenfour, and it is crime-riddled and, as a wiser man than I once put it, "a wretched hive of scum and villainy." We've been able to reduce that somewhat, but it's a difficult task and our police and Customs forces simply don't have the time, manpower or resources to prevent or even investigate every crime. We've had...outside help, though, which seems to be working. The Kitsune Empire has hired assassins and mercenaries in the past, so we like to keep those who are of some use to us." He sighed. "It's not perfect, it might not even be good, but it works. No one complains too much, so I think we've got a good thing going." He looked at Pegasus thoughtfully. "I take it you don't even try to police or regulate the Undercity at all and concentrate on keeping its dezines away from the rest of the populace?"

"Oh we try, and we succeed at protecting the populance. The security methods I was refering to are the Drones, droids, the Council of Dragons, and various other things that keep unwanteds out." A waiter came by and poured a glass of water for both of them before walking off to get a some menus.

Vulpe thanked the waiter and took a sip of the water, laying the staff to lean against the table. "Do you get a lot of tourists and immigrants here on Greywatch Prime?" he asked.

"Well if you're a gambler or want to do some sightseeing, learn about the history of Greywatch and such, yes. We do get plenty of people here, especially those who like the natural side of Greywatch, seeing as we still have a lot of protected green areas. Greywatch Prime is no more popular then the other homeworlds. Though, it is mainly the Leanorians who take interest in us, I suppose it's the fact that we're so closely related." As he spoke the waiter came back with two menus. The waiter then went to attend to some other groups while he waited.
The menus featured several choices of food. Amoung the appitizers were different finger foods similar to the meals one might find in a fast food place, but just with fancy names and made with better quality ingrediants. These included platters us small insects, fish, cocktails, veggie and cheese platters... The main courses were assortments of pastas, larger fish, larger insects, poultry, soups, the all familiar beef, along with other various land mammals. Drinks included various soft drinks, wines, beers, and juices.
"Quite the selection they have here... they even have dishes that cater to Kiixori. Interesting."

"Hmmm..." Vulpe looked over the menu with interest. " I think fried calamari will do well for the appetizer and round steak cooked blood rare is quite fine, but the drink...ah, the drink." He shook his head. "I am torn between either the Merlot or Petit Verdot. What do you suggest?"

"I would go with the Petit Verdot, but that's just me." Pegasus said as he looked over the menu, "I guess I'll go Kiixori." The waiter came back, "Ready to order?" Pegasus nodded, "I will have the Mortorii bug with greens on the side. And I think I'm fine with water." The waiter nodded to Pegasus and then looked to Vulpe, "And you sir?"

"For the starter fried calamari would be favorite, the main course consisting of round steak cooked blood rare with a side of mashed potatoes please, and as for the drink a glass of your finest red Petit Verdot wine," said Vulpe primly.

"Of course sir." Said the waiter without question before walking away. Pegasus looked out a window, sunlight could still be seen but that would last for, at most, an hour more. "It might be best to find somewhere to stay tonight... many of things here are best seen during the day."

Vulpe nodded. "I'm sure this city has any number of hotels offering accommodations, I could stay in one of them." He too gazed out the window at the sprawl below, teeming with urban life. Such a spectacle it was.

"My home is actually back on Pegasus Gardens, but I do have a flat in the city I could let you stay at." Pegasus looked at the trains going back and forth without end, "Big cities... it's as if they never sleep." The waiter came back with a wine glass and a bottle of Petit Verdot. Stetting the glass down, the waiter promptly poured Vulpe a glass and left again.

Vulpe smiled as he raised the glass to his lips. "That would be acceptable for me to stay at your flat. Were you named for these gardens?" He sipped the wine, licking his lips and setting the glass down again. "Ah, the familiar and unmistakable scent of late violets and pencil shavings..."

"Pegasus Gardens was a resort world I started up with my brother. It's very popular, manages to attract so many people from all the different races. Even a few Elden." Pegasus smiled at Vulpe's description, "I always did like the way people described the aroma."

"Oh," Vulpe raised his eyebrows, "I had no idea you were a businessman. What is this resort, exactly? A greenbelt of sorts, or is it in the city?'

"It's an entire planet. A resort world if you will. It was an idea my brother and I had some years ago. We weren't rich growing up, we wanted to make it big and we wanted to meet new people. Resorts are a great way of doing both."

"It must have been difficult," Vulpe took another drink of the delightful Petit Verdot, "especially starting out. How did you manage it?"

"Luck, actually. Greywatch had just found a small world. My brother and I managed to get a loan as well as all the materials, staff, etc needed for such a venture. In started with a beach resort/casino near a small city and space port. We had a few advisers... for about a month it seemed like we were done but more people came in. After we got enough money to pay off our debt we decided to make a few improvements, and after about a year, expand." As he spoke, the waiter came back with Vulpe's calamari before leaving once again. Pegasus continued, "After about four years, we had resorts catering to just about any taste. Nature reserves, beach resorts, mountain getaways... it took time but the more we built, the more people came. Eventually, about 35% of the planet became city and resort. Past that, my brother and I haven't wanted to build any more in fear of ruining the ecosystem."

"Wow," Vulpe said as he dipped and bit into a calamari, "that's incredible. This calamari is godly." He grinned. "Joking, I was speaking of your accomplishments. So...does your brother manage this, or do you and being a diplomat is just a part-time job?" he smiled at his little joke. "Or have you given control over to some executive somewhere?"

Pegasus chuckled, "I have a council of executives to take care of things while I'm gone, though I still get constant messages about all the big decisions. My brother and I make random visits to see how everything's doing and chat with the guests... but I invest more time in being a diplomat. Meeting new people is just such an intersting to do, especially as a job." Pegasus paused as he took a sip of his water, "But enough about me. What do you do when you're not traveling around?"

Vulpe considered this as he popped another calamari ring into his mouth. "Not a whole lot. Being a diplomat is a full-time job, although I haven't been selected as an emissary or Ambassador to any particular nation or organization. If I'm not working I try and keep myself updated on international events, and in my spare time..." He shrugged. "I relax as much as possible. Being an Ambassador can be a very tense, often dangerous job, as you know, so generally I just let myself unwind before I go on assignment again. Reading novels on the beach, going out to dinner with friends, that kind of thing." He smiled as he swallowed some more of his red wine. "I think it's good for the soul."

"Indeed, luckly for Greywatch only the Kiixori were extremely hostile to our presence. I do believe we somehow got involved in one of their wars and yet they forgave us and we're now allies. Sounds like I need to visit and archive." Pegasus looked out the window again. "Ah, our food should be ready soon."

Vulpe nodded. "Good service and food, this place. I'd ask about the Kiixori, but I'm sure I'll be learning plenty about them later. For now, what kind of government structure is Greywatch based on, Forbidden Ministry aside? Democratic?"

"Ah yes, the Kiixori should be... interesting. But in regards to your question, Greywatch is a council-run Democracy. The council members represent the four main races of Greywatch. Human, Leanorian, Kiixori, and Xarniosi. Each one represents their race's interests, they serve as many years as their race feels they deserve. The Elden and Dragon'kin have chosen not to participate in the council, the Elden do not often like to be involved in Greywatch affairs. As for the Dragon-kin, I'm not sure why they don't wish to have a council member."

Vulpe frowned. "But how does this work? Do these four beings have ultimate power in Greywatch, do they decide all the decisions? What about in wartime, who takes control then? Finally, what if there is a deadlock between the four, two for a certain idea or declaration and two against? Is there a chairman of sort to break the tie?"

"Quite easily, the council isn't exactly supreme. They have plenty of advisors and have to take in the opinions of the people. They do indeed take care of most of the decisions but most have a certain field. Humans take care of expansion, exploration, and trade. Leanorians are apart of the Religion, Cryptic training, and Medical division. Xarnisosi concern themselves with most of the technology. Kiixori focus mostly on Military affairs. They work together and independantly, only the most important of affairs require them to come together. As for military ventures, it is not exactly uncommon for one race to go on a campaign without the others. The Empire stands united but is very fluid in what it does, we don't want anyone to be bound to many stone-set rules. And for whatever reaosn, this system seems to work." Pegasus paused, "And in the case of a deadlock on a very important issue... it either goes to the people or they ask an Elden. The council actualy keeps Elden advisors for such situations."

Vulpe considered this. "I understand it, and it seems like it would work, but what if one race goes to war and drags the others with it? Most enemies wouldn't distinguish between the ones that attacked them or the ones they are attacking and the nation they happen to belong to. War is not clean and sectional, it's messy and confusing and encompasses many. Besides, such wars surely have an effect on the economy all over Greywatch, no?"

"Indeed wars can be messy, but understand this: Kiixori are our most aggressive race and they are really the only ones who have gone off on small skirmishes. Now, this is actually frowned upon so they don't do it too often. Every council member knows that if their race does decide to go off on its own in a military campaign, they are no longer fighting as a member of the Greywatch Empire, they are fighting for themselves by themselves. The only time we will intervene is if civilians of any of the races somehow become involved. Now in relations to economy, we have some failsafes in place, though it's not my business to know what all of them are. Most of the time though, no one race can drag the others into it, sure there are the mercenaries... but we handle that when it happens. Most importantly is that the no member of any race really 'has the balls' to go off and attack some other random nation outside the empire for no reason without the support of the other races. And we limit the amount of wars and skirmishes that we fight, with good reason. Every now and then someone has someonw pent up aggression that needs to be released, but that's when we hold war games. Which are actually quite interesting, the Kiixori seem to win most of the time though."

"Still," Vulpe waved his hand, "one race may be fighting an enemy alone, but does their enemy know that? I know, for example, if the Kiixori attacked Xiscapia or any of our allies, none of us would separate them from Greywatch. Wars must be short and contained for this policy to work, or you would be continually set upon by the different enemies of every race on your council. I know you said you don't fight wars without good reason, and I understand and respect that, but it just doesn't seem logical or effective to me that any faction that is part of a unified government can go to war by itself and it can be assumed the other parts will not be affected or dragged in with it."

"Really, even if the Kiixori used their own ships rather than ours? And in this hypothetical case, in order for it to work we would have to hav never met, meaning you would not know that the Kiixori are even apart of the Greywatch Empire. And despite their home planet is in our system, that alone would not justify an attack on Greywatch Prime itself. And yes, any wars that follow this system are short, mainly because a single race that has come to rely on allies will only survive on its own for so long. The longest wars we've fought were against New Heaven, and they required every race to work together. Now while Greywatch as a whole may take in some kind of affect from a war started by a single race, we do try make sure that the affect is a small one. The worst possible situation would be two or more races starting seperate wars at the same time, and this is something we make sure cannot happen."

"Nevertheless, Greywatch Prime would be affiliated with the Kiixori, and any enemy of theirs might find it beneficial to blockade or even occupy Greywatch Prime to cease trade between the two and effectively cut off Kiixori from the rest of your Empire. The kind of people who would war against you need no justification for their actions, though I cannot speak for what anyone would do if one of your races was overly aggressive. But it doesn't really matter: Your policy does not affect or offend us, and if it works, well," Vulpe shrugged, "then we have no problem with it. It merely seems a curious way to run a nation, seeing as I come from one where all the power can be linked to one being and his various advisers and military commanders."

"This is where diplomacy comes into the picture. If a nation tries to blockade Greywatch Prime, then it becomes an issue of everyone else because all the other races and nations linked to Greywatch from that point on are affected. However, if a nation tries to talk with us and convince us into cutting off aid to the Kiixori, in that case we will listen." Pegasus nodded, "It has worked for us very well for us in the past which is why we continue to use it. I imagine that the contacts Xiscapia has had with Greywatch have only alerted you to the presence of the humans and Lenorians, correct?" As he spoke Vulpe's meal was brought out and set down on the table.

"Them yes, we might have seen some Elden but we're not entirely sure if they were Elden or humans. So far as we know, we've never met any Xarniosi or Kiixori." Vulpe thanked the waiter as his steak and potatoes were set down in front of him, pushing aside his now empty calamari plate and flourishing a knife and fork before stabbing into the meat.

"Well consider this, the way we explore is a war on ignorance. We wish to go forth and crush our own lack of knowledge of the rest of the galaxy. The Kiixori and Xarniosi do not wish to participate in this war and thus do not send anyone to go along with us unless we specifically request it. This is similar to the situation we were just talking about. As far as anyone else is concerned, if they were to fight the Kiixori, they'd not know about us unless of course they came to this particular system. They wouldn't know anything of the Leanorians or the Xarniosi. Our policy on war is similar, the only possible flaw is that our most aggresive ally is in the same system as us."

"Which could be a huge and potentially fatal flaw," said Vulpe, lifting the first forkfull of beef to his mouth. "Why are they so aggressive, though? Are the Kiixori particularly warlike or xenophobic, or were they at one time laid low by an enemy and now strive to never lose another war again?"

"More because of internal affairs. It's an insectoid race, constantly fighting to obtain resources for their hive. So essentially, the entire planet is in a constant civil war. When they need another source of resources, there is very little that can stop them. Think advanced locusts with guns... that's the Kiioxri. The only reason they even trust us is because we were on the same side in war that threatened both our races. And even then, they look at us like we're untrustworthy and lesser beings. They hate the other races completely, they're prideful, and selfish. When we visit that world we're going to be landing in a safe-zone, one of the few that could be set up." Pegasus grinned, "They entertain me greatly. Quite often, the hives will stop fighting to host war games. Almost as if they're trying to impress us."

"Like a bunch of children squabbling over sweets," said Vulpe almost dismissively. "So when they go to war even they don't go to war as a whole, but rather one or an alliance of hives combat outer enemies while the others fight amongst themselves? Or when they determine they need more resources do they all temporarily band together to destroy their enemy?"

"No, more like a group of people stranded on a island with limited resources, fighting to survive. But that aside, their politics in times of war are difficult to explain. The best person to explain that is an actual Kiixori."

"Other worlds and nations have managed," Vulpe countered, "to survive without killing each other and have faced the rest of the galaxy without undue aggression. It is not difficult to find resources, whether from uninhabited planets, asteroids, trade, any of many different routes. Perhaps they war because they enjoy it, and the gain of resources is only a bonus. When the galaxy is so rich in resources and they possess FTL travel necessary to get them, this is the only logical reason I can think of for this behavior."

"I don't bother trying to understand everything they do. Though I imagine, just by the length of time they've ben fighting, that resources and possibly very old grudges are what actually created the current situation. Hell, I'm willing to bet you're half right and they've fought to the point they actually do enjoy it to some extent. Though keep in mind, launching a ship and exploring is really hard if you have others constantly shooting down said ship, sabotaging it, and so on." Pegasus smiled for a moment, "Though you have to give them credit for one thing: despite their apparent hate for one another they've never used nuclear weapons. Nor have they ever tried to exploit the orbital weapons. So they manage to have some self control, at least that's my thought." It was then that the Mortorii bug that Pegasus had ordered came out. It was a little larger than a human head and lay on its back, literally cooked in its shell, and surronded by green beans. Its shell was a deep green in color while the underside was a dirty yellow. Pegasus took a fork and poked at the soft belly, "Ah, good and soft. From what I've heard, that's how you can tell its done." He stuck his fork in a carved out some of the meat, it was very similar to eating a baked potato. Without a word he tried it, making sure to chew and get the full flavor before swallowing. "Interesting."

"Not using nuclear or orbital weapons only proves they're not self-destructive. Such would only help them annihilate themselves rather quickly..." Vulpe was cut off by the arrival of Pegasus's main course. The kitsune felt faintly repulsed at the sight of him eating the huge insect, but quickly reminded himself that others were known to be cannibalistic and ate things much worse than this, and resigned himself to try and not watch the man eat it. However,
"What does it taste like? Chicken?" he grinned.

Pegasus smiled, "I honestly can't say. My taste bud are still trying to comprehend it." He took a few more fork fulls and swallowed. "It's not bad... it's just different." After another fork full he continued, "The main part seems... sweet and salty." Pegasus carved some of the meat from the shell and tried it. "And the meat near the shell is bitter... and sour."

Vulpe chuckled. "Like the meat from my cow, only different. Interesting. So...what can you tell me about these Xarniosi, aside from the fact that they're isolationist?" He took a bite of the potatoes, licking his chops. "Ah, capital." he murmured, reaching for the pepper shaker.

Pegasus thought about how he could explain the Xarniosi while he ate. When he finally thought of what to say he put down his fork, "They are... a very odd race. From what I've seen, they start off in life looking much like humans... but over time their bodies...absorb the minerals in the ground around them. They literally convert from flesh to machine during the course of their lives... and it's a natural process, or at least that's what it seems like. There are very few of them the last I checked." He took a few forkfulls of greenbeans before continuing, "I'm not actually sure how, but from what I've heard others say, they were human or Elden at some point. However, they possess no Cryptic abilities... so they instead focus on technology. Due to their small numbers and isolationist lifestyle, we actually don't have too much knowledge about them."

"From man to machine, a ghost in the shell," murmured Vulpe as he took another forkful of the delightful mashed spuds. "Intriguing. Their biology must be very strange indeed. Do they embrace their transformation, or do they see it as an anomaly?"

"They don't seem to have much of a problem with it. We don't think they were always like that though. This is only a theory, but due to the Elden being around for so long... we think they may have been Elden at some point. Who knows? Perhaps an experiment went wrong and it changed them into the Xarniosi, we know the Xarniosi have nanites in the blood which actually seem to help the process." Pegasus took a few more bites of his meal, "It's very interesting... As you said, 'from man to machine.' Well, part machine."

"So most of their lives are spent in various states of cybernetic mutation, and only the very beginning is fully human and the very end fully machine? And does this give them any...mm, traits or abilities unknown to the rest of the population?" Vulpe asked. He had heard of races of machines, of sentient A.I., the Greywatchers themselves had met an android and many soldiers coming home from war had cybernetic limbs, but he'd never heard of anything like this.

"Indeed they do, from what I've heard... and from the ever so few I've seen, they can merge with just about any kind of technology. That and they're extremely resiliant, their homeworld is in a constant state of chaos... volcanoes, magma, severe storms... not a friendly place. Due to this, thry're immune to a lot of stuff that would kill you and I." Pegasus said before taking a few more bites of his meal.

In his head Vulpe began the comparison and evaluation: Like Elden, but possessing the abilities of a Anonics user, living in a destructive environment, reclusive. Hmm. "Do they still retain their emotion? Do their brains stay the same or change as well? Once they make the transition to full machine, are they immortal?" he asked, again full of questions.
What a curiosity!

"Emotion, yes. They don't become full machines, more like very advanced cyborgs. To be quite honest, this very ability kills them, it's how they die. Their bodys can only take so much trasformation and eventually their internals simply shut down. It's sad that their special ability actually kills them... but that must be the nature of things."

"What is their lifespan, then, until they become too machine-like and begin to starve the vitals of certain fluids and stimulation?" questioned Vulpe. He felt like a damned reporter, but it was his job to take in as much information as he possibly could for his superiors. And in any case, what he saw and heard was so interesting he honestly wanted to know more.

"It really seems to depend, from what I've heard, they live anywhere from 20 to 300 years of age. It seems that they are heavily influenced by both internal and external factors. Again, this is a race I would know little about because of their isolationist nature." Pegasus was almost done with his meal and his thoughts kept wandering to what in Greywatch Prime might be interesting to show Vulpe.

"So sad, such a short time, and much of it spent with the knowledge that as you change it will bring along your demise," said Vulpe sorrowfully. He brightened. "But if I get the chance to speak to an Xarniosi personally, well I will have something to look forward to." He had finished his potatoes, most of his wine and nearly all of his steak.

"Indeed it is, but I'm sure there will be at least one Xarniosi that will speak to you. They like to maintain archives, they actually helped construct the Greywatch Archives, so when they here about a foriegn diplomat they should be thrilled."

"It will be a better reception I have received, then, both here and otherwise," Vulpe laughed, adding hurriedly, "no disrespect to you or your fellows of course. So, will we be heading for rooms and bed and pick up on the tour again tomorrow, or is there more to see here tonight?"

Pegasus gave a small laugh, "No offense taken, I can imagine you've been through quite a bit today." He finished up the last of his meal and tapped his lips with his napkin. "Ah, I believe there's not much else to see today..." A waiter came by with the bill which Pegasus promptly paid, "So I believe we are done for today. I will take you to the flat and we'll resume tomorrow."

"Sounds good," Vulpe swallowed the last bit of streak and drained his wine in a gulp, pushing back his chair and standing up. "Looking forward to the sights of Greywatch Prime tomorrow..."

"Well, I'll do all I can to make it as interesting as possible." Said Pegasus with a smile. He led Vulpe from the restaraut to a nearby monorail system. It was about a twenty minute ride to the flat in the residential district of the city. The flat itself was located near the coast and looked out over the continent's southern beaches. Pegasus was sure to give Vulpe a brief tour of the flat before leaving, "Well, this is the main area, just past the entrance way. The main area consists of the living room and kitchenette, bedroom is just through there to the right. Bathroom is to the left, you'll find everything you need, I keep this place well stocked even when I'm not staying here." He led Vulpe to the bedroom, "Personal computer over there and a queen size bed, TV is located right across from said bed.... you should have everything you need. I'll be back sometime... say eight o'clock tommorow? There's food in fridge is you want, cereal in the cupboards... or if you want to go out for breakfast, we can do that too."

Vulpe shook his head. "I'm fine with eating in, I'm not really that much of an early riser anyway." With a bow and a few words of thanks to Pegasus Vulpe entered his room, reflecting that he had brought almost nothing with him. He leaned the staff against the wall took off his katana and other personal items before slipping into the bathroom. Finding a tube he smiled and disrobed, settling in for a relaxing bath before heading off to bed about an hour and a half later that night. His shuttle pilot would have known where the Ambassador had gone, hell he was probably already here in orbit or grounded in a space port somewhere, and he wouldn't need to report to his superiors until after his assignment was over.

The next day...

Pegasus watched as the sun came up over the horizon, it was five o'clock and he was already up and had already eaten. The great thing about travelling between worlds was the interplanetary 'jet lag' that came with it. He watched the horizon for another hour before taking a jog around the coastline, wasn't like he had much more to do. Once he was done with that, and had gotten changed back at the hotel he'd stayed at, he checked the news and any new diploamtic reports that had come in. By the time he had finished all of his basic morning tasks he checked the time again, seven fifty. "Well now, I guess I may be a little late... but oh well, that's just the nature of things." With that Pegasus changed into his diplomatic dress once more and headed back to his flat. It was eight thirty when he knocked on the door, "Vulpe, I hope you're ready."