NationStates Jolt Archive

The Planet Cha'ti
Imperial estate
The black sky hung calmly over the 20 acre estate, reflecting off the huge, calm lake and from inside the palace the sounds gleeful children sounded.
On the palace blacany empress Cheng rolled her eyes, sighed and turned to walk back into her bedroom just as 3 human children and 2 dragona children hurtled into the room while hitting each other with large rubber swords

"Ini wer ansestak! Chiili si tepoha ekess feed wux ekess Jormunda?" she shouted, pointing out the window where a huge Liir had just broke the surface of the lake. It was an empty threght, Jormunda had long become mostly vegetarian, eating nothing more than archandar fish and sea-plants, non the less it shut the children up "gethrisj vur itrewic krathin wer party starts soon!" she said in a quieter voice, sliping into galactic standard as she again got butterflies in her stomach as she thaught of the amount of important people would be attending.

The children, looking very down hearted, walked out the room muttering with Cheng following them, closing her door once they had left and walking over to her cupbard and began rifleing thrugh her various ball gowns and dresses. After roughly an hour she finaly settled on a flowwing teal dress with many sequens of a matching colour dotted aorund it, making it sparkle in the light.
Around her neck she wore an assortment of silver, gold and white gold necklaces, each one encrusted with precious stones. On her hands she wore 3 rings and her wedding ring, again each had a gem set in it. Indeed the wedding ring had several.

Smiling as she looked into the mirror she sliped into her high-heeled shoes and steped out into the hall where the children were now throwing bottles of perfume at the suits of battle armor in the main entrace. Gasping in mock horror she said "You little horrers" and picked the nearest human child up, smoothing down his jacket as one of the others threw her most expensive bottle at an ancient samurii suit of armor, missing it by inches "Come on now, stop that and help me in the main room, lets see what instruments there are shall we?" she said, prying another bottle of expensive perfume from the young male dragona with golden scales.

As they decended the stairs she clicked her fingers and a servant imediatly appeared at her side "Clear up the mess quickly and try to make a note of what they threw. Don't worry so much about the smell but try to get rid of it if you can" she whispered so the children didn't hear her and she proceded thrugh the gleaming corridors to the main room, leaving the servant to gather a team to complete his task.

OOC: One of my longest posts ever *smiles*
EDIT: Forgot to add the OOC in my smugnes: http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=585648

OOC: Wow. How... long. :tongue:

IC: "Destination reached in five minutes. Will the Commander please prepare himself for arrival and disembarking." Sancticus stood up from his command chair as the Unbound AI announced the craft's imminent arrival to Cha'ti, wordlessly heading towards the shuttle bay as his XO saluted then sat down in his place. The placid voice drifted over the Ariel. "Will all crew members please refrain from inciting trouble. Please remember that this is a diplomatic trip, and any personnel found to be hurting relations between the Empire and the Dragonans will be summarily executed by firing squad or immurement. Thank you, and have a nice day."

((Reserved for post))

VTN Ariel, this is Cha'ti space-trafic controle, we detect you aproaching thrugh lane 4, I belive the empress is expecting you. You are cleared to exit FTL and dock with one of the shipyards around starbase 68.

Transporter acces to the palace grounds has been cleared for your use, enjoy your stay.
Warden 2ndclass Wilson the text message from the spacelane authoraties said as it was transmited to the Ariel. Also attached to the message was the specifications and codeing of a holo-tag for replication to allow the admiral acces to the grounds.

OOC: I'll ski[ the usual back story I give and cut straight to the point

some distance from the planet there was a flash of light in space. From that light emerged a ship, a military Oni class cruiser. The large 564 meter long cruiser began to push towards the planet with it's engines "FTL jump complete captain" a officer on the bridge reported as the main engines fired up and the ship moved forward. Also on the bridge of the ship were the people the ship was ordered to escort, the leader of there civilization and the head of diplomatic affairs, along with three body guards. Once the ship got close enough to the planet a text message was sent out requesting docking clear for a shuttle they were preparing to send out.



This is the ZAFT forces cruiser Nightingale
requesting permission for a shuttle to dock.
To carry the supreme chairman and his delegation
representing the our nation at the event


OOC: for reference ZAFT is the name of my armed forces not my FT nation

ZAFT Cruiser Nightingale, you gave us quite a shock!
Permission granted and you are cleared to dock at a shipyard near starbase 68 untill the meeting is over, co-ordinates attached.
Also attached are the schematics and coding for your identiication for the chairman's visit.
Enjoy your stay.
Cha'ti space-traffic controle.
As the messages were sent and recived the several large seige drivers that had been pointing discreatly at the Nightingale from the 3 moons rotated back into their dormant position.

The Mercury class battlestar came shooting out of the flash of light away from the planet, the grey hulf of a ship began slowly advancing towards the planet.

CIC, TCAF Crucible
A black uniformed grey and aging wolf, turned to the two Admirals who were standing over the central command console. "FTL jump complete, flight pods extended, all systems are green" The jet black fox looked up from a chart he was studying momentarly and just nooded to the comms officer. Who subbsequently began to broadcast. "This is the TCAF Crucible, requesting location to hold orbit whilst a Raptor shuttle our delegation to the surface" After he sent the message the comms officer looked back over to the Commander of the ship. "Well done, the XO has the deck" The captain snapped before he, the other commander and the two Admirals walked out of the CIC towards the Flight deck.

Again the cannons traced the new ship while a message was compiled and sent off
TCAF Cruicable, you are cleared to dock near starbase 68 (co-ordinates attached), your deligate may transport down to the surface if he wishes, however a shuttle will be fine, co-ordinates to the palace hanger/ landing pad are attached, as are scematics and codeing for the ID bages for your deligates.
Enjoy your stay
Cha'ti space-traffic controle.

So...this was it.

Aisc sighed and straightened up, giving himself a complete investagation in the full-lenth mirror that was imbedded into his chamber wall. What he saw did not satisfy him and drew a frown from his canine face. He shook his head, mid-cut black hair flying everywhere, muttering something to himself as he began to adjust his robes again. He thought that he looked a fool. He would have been much happier in his normal jeans and shirt, but he supposed that he had better make an effort and wear the Diplomat's Robes that were the norm in his own Realm. He knew he would stand out and the thought made him cringe. He finished with his adjustments and began to give himself another one over. He began to adjust his clothes again, tutting in frustration. He was wearing it exactly as he should have, as he had been taught to wear it, but it still didn't look...right.

A buzz came from the direction of his door, snapping the Wolf's attention to it, tail flicking in curiousity. He wondered who it was. As soon as he had asked himself the question, he came to a conclusion. He knew it couldn't be any of the crew. For his escort had been instructed to leave him in peace while he worked, pending an emergency of some kind. He was nervous, a chance to see what this Universe was really like. As he waited to welcome his visitor, the warship dropped out of Desitter Space and sent a message to the locals,

"To Local Control, this is the Starrean Analysis Ship Sasamuhu delivering Ambassador Aisc for Diplomatic Dinner."

As with before the cannons switched thier barrels to the Sasamuhu as it emerged from FTL and a message was sent to them
Starrea Analysis Ship Sasamuhu, welcome.
Permission granted and you are cleared to dock at a shipyard near starbase 68 untill the meeting is over, co-ordinates attached. Your ambasader can be transported or shuttled down to the surface, which ever is preferable.
Also attached are the schematics and coding for your identiication for the chairman's visit.
Enjoy your stay.
Cha'ti space-traffic controle.

OOC: The bit aobout the cannons, by the way, is just some filler so I can post the messages, has to be 3 letters or more OUTSIDE the quote *grumble*

As the chairman and the rest of the delegation boarded a Heaven Mk. II class infantry drop ship/transport the Nightingale locked in the coordinates into its computer. As the transport left the hanger with two escorting craft the chairman simply smiled "I hear we gave them a scare when we dropped in, well it's been awhile since I had a diplomatic visit such as this, you four better enjoy this, especially you three, you may be Psycom but try to enjoy the party as well, okay?" he said to the others in the back with him as the transport rushed to the coordinates. All four of them were in formal attire, him and Christina were in suits while the three from psycom where in there military dress uniforms. Before long the transport entered and broke through the atmosphere, the wings of the transport deployed and the side hatches opened. While they may of been open shields preventing a person from falling out while allowing one to view the outside world. The transport landed at the designated location, when it did the chairman stood up from his seat "Well, show time people" he said fixing his tie and walking over to the shield which dropped as he approached. With there others closely around him they stepped off the transport.

"Chairman, Welcome to Cha'ti" a blue scaled dragona said as he bowed to the assembled deligates and bodyguards "The empress has requested we present you with this as a gift to you and your people" the dragona continued as 2 more with brown and gold scales apeared with a large wooden box, which they opened to reveal an intricate carving of the dragona ancesters glairing down on a galaxy of small gems, the whole thing wobbling slightly as the tiny grav-lifts holding it up adjusted to the sudden stop in movement
"Shall we leave it in your shuttle?" the blue scaled dragona inquired.

As ever, a large green rip suddenly appeared in space, thin for a moment, then slowly pulling apart before the Ariel dragged itself out, the black bulk of the destroyer silhoutted, an eerie green aura framing it for a few moments, before the entire craft was out of warp and the tear closed itself, space reverting to to it's normal emptiness. The Ariel's weapons were powered off, however the shields were at full power. The Commander made it a case in point never to trust anyone, especially not the Dragona. But that didn't mean he couldn't be civil about it.
From the craft's underbelly, a small shuttle dropped out from the hangar bay, the engines kicking in. Onboard, the commander paced.
"Keep the transporters locked onto me. Comm channel 6643 open and clear as the emergency channel. Keep the engines hot, shields up and escape route open."
"Will do sir." The Commander flicked the comm off as the shuttle landed, the landing ramp hissing down in a hiss of steam. The Commander stepped down it, hands behind his straight back, then saluted the Dragonans who met him.
"Commander Sancticus, Templarian Empire."

"As always, an honour" said the black scaled dragona stood before the landing ramp "As usual, the empress has requested we give you a gift, but she wasn't certain on what to give you but eventualy she settled on something of epic proportions" the dragona shook his head as 2 humans steped forward carrying a large silver tray on which a sizeable slab of amber was lay. "Belive it or not, she settled on a very special artifact for a very special relationship between our people. This.. "he said, tapping the amber "..is a scale from Deces before his exile, she caused quite a stir with it"

"As always, an honour" said the black scaled dragona stood before the landing ramp "As usual, the empress has requested we give you a gift, but she wasn't certain on what to give you but eventualy she settled on something of epic proportions" the dragona shook his head as 2 humans steped forward carrying a large silver tray on which a sizeable slab of amber was lay. "Belive it or not, she settled on a very special artifact for a very special relationship between our people. This.. "he said, tapping the amber "..is a scale from Deces before his exile, she caused quite a stir with it"

The Commander nodded in appreciation, barked and order in Templarian and helped 3 marines to load it onto the shuttle before looking quizically (Although you could not tell through his rebreather) at the humans.
"Wux tepoha started using ruliyna?" He shook his head, before taking a small ring (http://www.cynical-c.com/archives/bloggraphics/bonering.jpg) out of his pocket and proffering it to the Dragonan. "At any rate, His Highness requested I present your Emperess with this. Made out of Kytaf warchief bone. Quite valuable, very strong. Hell, that ring could probably stop a sword if you hit it right." He handed it to him. "So, when does the meeting begin?"

The sky ripped open, a crackling portal of energy flaring up as a massive dual colored ship with a symbol on the front appeared. It was a modified 1.6 Km Essex class carrier, the ship flew towards the planet, blue white particle streams fading out in to the darkness of space fighter escorts had also came with it through the portal and they all flew towards the world coming to a stop some distance before reaching orbit. A message was sent via audio only.

“This is Space force one, requesting permission to send our delegation down to the surface, please respond”

The message was short and simple. Richard was sitting in the executive quarters resting his feet upon a leather like couch, he slumped down a bit more as he knew the ship had dropped out of slip space, he watched various images flicker on the holo screen in front of him. It was a game of old style soccer. His favorite sport. He took hand full of odd looking pretzels and ate them one by one. Bester was on the other said A smile across his face as he took a drink from a metal cup of a pinkish carbonated liquid slurping it down.

The more time they had to watch this game the better but they did not want to wait to long waiting for a reply from the dragonans. Bester made a comment regarding that.

“hey Rich, knowing them they would keep us here for months waiting for a simple yes..”

The vice president laughed out loud sitting up as he ate the last salty piece confectionary.

“I ain’t waiting for some over grown lizards for to long, I still think we should have enforced the black list on this one.”

Bester shrugged and responded

“Eh, We’re already at war with some other anthromorphic races, why not complete the picture, even though we’re the only ones who are sympathetic to aliens....”


Richard just shook his head and sighed watching the game.

"Actualy these are just regular citizens, its incredably dificult to get a dragona willing to handle such an artifact as the amber as you well know." the dragona said and bowed as he took the ring "An impressive gift indeed. The empress will be most pleased. The meal will be a short while yet but the meet-and-greet can begin imeadiatly, would you like to head up now?"

“This is Space force one, requesting permission to send our delegation down to the surface, please respond”

Spaceforce one, this is Space-traffic controle, you have your permission. If you wish you may dock near starbase 68 untill the banquet is over. Attached are co-ordinates for the delegates to beam down or land via shuttle as well as scematics for the ID cards being used tonight and their specific code sequences.
Enjoy your stay

This time the cannons didn't spin to face the new arivle. There was already enough tension between TFU and the dragonaas it was, the last thing theyh wanted to was was give them an excuse to start shooting...

"Actualy these are just regular citizens, its incredably dificult to get a dragona willing to handle such an artifact as the amber as you well know." the dragona said and bowed as he took the ring "An impressive gift indeed. The empress will be most pleased. The meal will be a short while yet but the meet-and-greet can begin imeadiatly, would you like to head up now?"

"Very well. If you could perhaps lead the way?" He looked us as the XO informed him of the new arrival over the closed comm, not able to see the TFU craft but knowing their number. He smiled to himself and muttered "E deny swyel zsudy."

"Of course sir, it is just up these stairs" he gestured to the large marble staircase behind him "Perhapse the shortrange transporter would be faster?"

"Captain Unis is very particular about that sort of thing," Commander Peter Cartright, first officer of the Achates, explained sarcastically to the Andorian woman he walked alongside through the curving corridors of the small starship. Just keeping pace with the woman was difficult, for despite her shorter legs she walked with a determined, purposeful stride that even the physically trained Starfleet officer found himself hurried.

"Please inform the Captain that if I should die planetside he will have my most sincere condolences," Xev Chiana said. "I would hate to cause him any discomfort after the hospitality I have been shown by dying on his watch."

"I'll be sure to make a note of it Madam Secretary," Cartright nodded.

"In all seriousness I appreciate the gesture," Chiana said, twitching her antennae as she pushed back her brilliant white hair. "But we promised to take only two bodyguards, and adding a contingent of marines to that complement would be somewhat rude. Just because we have no contact with these people, is no reason to assume they would invite us all this way just to kill us. But if it makes Captain Unis feel any better you can maintain a transporter lock on me while I'm there - just in case the food is terrible."

The entire trip, lasting almost four days, had consisted largely of various members of the Achates' senior staff informing the Secretary of State just how dangerous her line of work was, and why that necessitated an entire squadron of Starfleet security guards to beam down with her and wave their phaser rifles all over the place. Every time the subject was brought up, Chiana shot down the suggestion promptly, though it always seemed to rise from the ashes the next time she even came close to one of the officers.

Personally she was looking forward to the occasion. Recently her job, outside of domestic duties, had consisted mostly of telling people she didn't even know why they shouldn't be killing each other over pointless causes, and it grew disheartening when said people didn't listen and went ahead and started killing each other anyway. If that weren't sufficient to break a person, then aliens dishonouring universally accepted diplomatic protocols and jeopardising Federation lives in the process only added to the distastefully sour mix.

As such it was rather rare for her to get a chance to leave the city of San Angeles itself, let alone the Federation, and see a new alien culture in person and actually forge something positive with its occupants for once. Such a journey would make a refreshing change of pace from her increasingly morbid duties of late, though the Starfleet officers weren't making it easy to be positive with all their doom and gloom - she hadn't even considered the possibility of violence occurring on this trip.

Cartright chuckled quietly at the response as they manoeuvred through the narrow, bustling corridor, and began to speak without thinking. "Well the last thing we need is the Secretary of State puki..."

It was probably fortunate that the Commander was cut off by the computer sending out an automated announcement in the middle of his sentence, for suggesting that the Secretary of State of the Federation had a weak stomach wasn't necessarily a fantastic career move. "Now hear this: Secretary Chiana, please report to Transporter Room One, repeat, Secretary Chiana please report to Transporter Room One."

"Saved by the bell there, Commander," Chiana winked knowingly. "I'll see you when I return."

***

"One-quarter impulse, aye sir," called out the helmsman. Captain Unis Pri'en nodded in acknowledgement as he folded his fingers and placed them beneath his chin. As he stared ahead at the viewscreen, now displaying the planet they had been journeying towards for the last few days, his eyes almost glazed over.

Unlike their VIP passenger, Unis had virtually no interest in this assignment. He saw it more like babysitting than anything else, which was hardly fitting work for a starship. Granted, it made for an interesting diversion from cataloguing various unremarkable stellar phenomena on the Federation border but he'd have preferred a genuine exploratory or defence assignment, like the one presently being led by USS Decius, than serving as little more than a glorified chauffeur.

Nevertheless, each officer had his orders, whether they enjoyed carrying them out or not it needed to be done. His only wish was that it could be brushed out of the way sooner, rather than later. With almost casual disinterest he turned around to look over at the communications station.

"Lieutenant Stevens, open a channel," he called over abruptly.

A few button presses was all it took for the disgruntled officer, and the Lieutenant looked around and nodded at her commander. "Channel open sir."

"This is Captain Unis of the Federation Starship Achates," the Bajoran officer announced, seemingly speaking into thin air. "Arrival is as scheduled for diplomatic function; Secretary of State Chiana is ready to beam to the venue at your discretion - Achates out."

With that he sat down, taking a datapad out of the hands of a passing yeoman as he vaguely looked back at Stevens. "Alert Transporter Room One as soon as we receive an acknowledgement, Lieutenant. See if we can't get this done as soon as possible. Helm, enter standard orbit as soon as we're cleared."

As the Converted Luxry Raptor pulled away from the TCAF Crucible's Flight pod, it began its decent through the planets atmosphere, the seven passengers and two pilots began to adjust their uniforms and fur to look the most presentable they could. Onboard was two of the leading Admirals in the TCAF. A Jet Black Fox with crimison markings on his hears and at the tips of his tail, was the Admiral of the 4th Fleet, his name was Gareth Evans. His counter part in the 7th Fleet Claire Kane, A Wolf, younger then him and with orangeish fur. Traveling with them were the commanders of their ships, Commander Baskeyvl a artic wolf and Commander Daur a red panda. Sitting in the seats behind them were the three Tanith Marines, weapons locked in holders next to them.

"ETA to surface five minutes" The pilots voice drifted into the passenger compartment. "Very good, Starlight, however once we land I want the engines kept hot, just incase we need to make a quick escape" Admiral Evans talked back using the comm link built into his uniform. A small shuuder as the Raptor touched down, the whole party stood up and as they waited for the doors to open, they each smoothed down their balck military dress uniforms. The apperance was rather comical for Admiral Evans as the uniform matched his fur colour. "Show time, boys and girls" He quiped as the door opened and he lead the party out of the raptor.

"Chairman, Welcome to Cha'ti" a blue scaled dragona said as he bowed to the assembled deligates and bodyguards "The empress has requested we present you with this as a gift to you and your people" the dragona continued as 2 more with brown and gold scales apeared with a large wooden box, which they opened to reveal an intricate carving of the dragona ancesters glairing down on a galaxy of small gems, the whole thing wobbling slightly as the tiny grav-lifts holding it up adjusted to the sudden stop in movement
"Shall we leave it in your shuttle?" the blue scaled dragona inquired.

The chairman bowed as he took hold of the object "Thank you for your generosity, we have brought gifts as well but we shall leave our for later" he said raising his head as the items he brought along almost magically wandered out of the shuttle and the gift he was given floated inside "Is there any place we can store these until the event?" he inquired.

"This is Captain Unis of the Federation Starship Achates," the Bajoran officer announced, seemingly speaking into thin air. "Arrival is as scheduled for diplomatic function; Secretary of State Chiana is ready to beam to the venue at your discretion - Achates out."

The gruff voice of the officer of the watch spoke back across the comm channel to Achates ((this pales in comparason to your detail, sorry)) "Captain Unis you are cleared to dock near station 68, sending co-ordinates now.
Transporter co-ordinates are attached if you wish to use them, as are shutle landing co-ordinates.

We've also sent you scematics and codeing for your deligates ID badge, suggest replicating it before she transports down.

Space-traffic contorle, out." and the cahnnal closed.

As the Converted Luxry Raptor pulled away from the TCAF Crucible's Flight pod, it began its decent through the planets atmosphere, the seven passengers and two pilots began to adjust their uniforms and fur to look the most presentable they could. Onboard was two of the leading Admirals in the TCAF. A Jet Black Fox with crimison markings on his hears and at the tips of his tail, was the Admiral of the 4th Fleet, his name was Gareth Evans. His counter part in the 7th Fleet Claire Kane, A Wolf, younger then him and with orangeish fur. Traveling with them were the commanders of their ships, Commander Baskeyvl a artic wolf and Commander Daur a red panda. Sitting in the seats behind them were the three Tanith Marines, weapons locked in holders next to them.

"ETA to surface five minutes" The pilots voice drifted into the passenger compartment. "Very good, Starlight, however once we land I want the engines kept hot, just incase we need to make a quick escape" Admiral Evans talked back using the comm link built into his uniform. A small shuuder as the Raptor touched down, the whole party stood up and as they waited for the doors to open, they each smoothed down their balck military dress uniforms. The apperance was rather comical for Admiral Evans as the uniform matched his fur colour. "Show time, boys and girls" He quiped as the door opened and he lead the party out of the raptor.
"You are from the TCAF vessle?" a pale green dragona asked the deligates as they steped out of the shuttle "Welcome to Cha'ti. Allow me to present you with a gift on behalf of the empress" she continued, pulling a (sheathed) sword (http://www.cbswords.com/images/bast-sword.jpg)from behind her back and presenting it's hilt to the foremost diplomat as she bowed.

The chairman bowed as he took hold of the object "Thank you for your generosity, we have brought gifts as well but we shall leave our for later" he said raising his head as the items he brought along almost magically wandered out of the shuttle and the gift he was given floated inside "Is there any place we can store these until the event?" he inquired. The Dragona that had braught the carving steped forward as the bluescaled one said "The empress had planned to view them before the banquet was served, she's in the main room now I belive, perhapse we should head up?"

Sire, we have received an invitation to some sort of political dinner.

Really, who is it from? Nhur-Galladu leaned forward toward the messenger sent from the Comm center of the Fist of Darkness.

Ummm, it is from a nation called… he hesitated a moment while double-checking the strange name, apparently they call themselves Ih8uwannakillu. That is the closest our translators can work their name.

I bet that makes for some interesting conversations between their ships and another nation’s. Do we have Anthony available?

Yes, he is returning from a contact in the Stalgma region. He arranged for our passage and suitable compensation to us for our refuse from the mining of their sun.

It does not surprise me one bit. I personally recruited him long ago from the Imperial College where he taught many of your superiors. He will do nicely.

I shall inform him of your desire.

Thank you. Now leave me so I can meditate.



Soon afterwards a singular wormhole tore the space-time continuum asunder as it forced its way into Real Space. First, gravity detectors and other sensors registered the appearance of an anomaly. Moments later a point in a deserted area of space as near the coordinates as possible collapsed into a vortex of madness. Out of the event horizon shot a single vessel, not much more than a few meters in length. As sensors swept over the small sleek craft they would easily detect the vessel was a shuttle and apparently it was unarmed and empty of known life signs. The ship made a gentle curve in her flight path and slowed to a halt.

This is Anthony Stark. I am here at the request of my Warlord and I possess an invitation from the government of Ih8uwannakillu to attend. Please allow me to approach.

The Stiletto Shuttle held position waiting for clearance.

The response was swift
Mr Stark, we are pleased you could make it, you are cleared to land

Anthony felt a familiar touch as Shipmind reached out and make her presence known to the Ta’Nar.

Anthony

Yes Katrina?

The natives are getting restless. You have a message.

Ha-ha, very funny. Send me the message.

Right away.

Anthony felt the message from the control be transferred to his own mind by Shipmind. He reviewed it a couple times and decided the short and simple message did not contain for the moment any ulterior meaning. He contacted Flight Control.

Flight Control, this is the Ta’Nar shuttle from Balrogga. We thank you for your clearance and will follow the flight plan you have given to me. Thank you for your prompt services.

Anthony reached out and contacted Katrina

Kat, take her in but be sure to follow their flight plan.

Of course, it would be silly to deviate from it.

Good thinking, that is why you get paid the big bucks.

I get paid? Hold on, there is a little turbulence ahead.

The shuttle began to shake as it entered the atmosphere. The friction from the heat left a crimson trail of light behind the craft as it fell seemingly fast toward the surface. After the worst of it was done, the shuttle leveled out and circled once in a holding pattern while another shuttle completed landing. Once it was their turn, Katrina descended towards her landing pad.

The sleek craft slowed as it neared the surface. Without a sound, the shit came to a halt a couple centimeters above the surface without touching. The side of the craft turned to liquid and melted downwards. As the quicksilver material ran down the side of the ship, they formed into three individually floating steps and in the process revealed a doorway. After a few moments, the doors slid open and out stepped Anthony Stark.

The man was dressed in a tweed suit, much like the ones warn by college professors. His silver touched black hair covered his head tied back in a tail. He wore a comfortable jacket and carried a silver handled cane in one hand and a briefcase in the other. He looked around for someone to meet him. When they approached he introduced himself.

“Greeting, I am Doctor Anthony Stark, I am most certainly pleased to meet you.”

"I am Garz'vog, the feeling is mutual" a tall black scaled dragona said "In the tradition of my people, the empress has sent you this gift" a human and dragona walked up to the shuttle, holding between them a large shield (http://eagleswords.com/library/FullSizeSilverHeraldicPhoenixShield.jpg) which they presented to Anthony.

The Dragona that had brought the carving stepped forward as the bluescaled one said "The empress had planned to view them before the banquet was served, she's in the main room now I believe, perhaps we should head up?"

The chairman nodded his head "If that is what the Empress wishes then we shall abide by that request from her, just show us the way and we shall present them to her" he then quickly turned his head back towards one of his body guards who was standing directly behind him "I hope this isn't putting to much a strain on your body"

"Sir, now sir, this is nothing compared to the combat training we go through!"

"Lighten up Lucy, this is suppose to be a party"

"Sir, with all do respect I believe it is improper to call a subordinate by there first name"

"geez this is a party, today I'm not the commander and chief, were all just people, even though you have to protect me"

"Very well sir" she replied. The chairman then turned back towards the people sent to greet them "Sorry about that, just looking after my subordinates" he then politely bowed his head as a apology.

"Of course sir, it is just up these stairs" he gestured to the large marble staircase behind him "Perhapse the shortrange transporter would be faster?"

He started up the staircase. "I do so hate transporters. If it is all the same to you, I would like to keep my atoms connected." He said, chuckling.

"You are from the TCAF vessel?" a pale green dragona asked the delegates as they stepped out of the shuttle "Welcome to Cha'ti. Allow me to present you with a gift on behalf of the empress" she continued, pulling a (sheathed) sword (http://www.cbswords.com/images/bast-sword.jpg)from behind her back and presenting it's hilt to the foremost diplomat as she bowed.


"Yes we are from the TCAF Crucible, I am Admiral Evans, This is Admiral Kane" He waved his paw in the direction of the Orange Wolf. Then he pointed to the red panda and artic fox respectively. "And this is Commander Daur and Baskevyl." As the Dragona passed the Admiral the Sword, he growled slightly at the exquisite craftsmanship that went into the blade. As he got lost in the sword and disappeared back into the Raptor to store it, Admiral Kane stepped forward and pulled out a leather holster, inside of which was a heavy looking platinum handgun, with gold details. Also on the pistols grip was a sapphire jewel and a emerald jewel. The two fashioned together to form the shape of two wolves intertwined. "Whilst your nation has probably far surpassed such primitive fire arms, we wish to present your empresses with this Solid Slug Ceremonial Handgun. It was crafted by are finest weapon smiths to thank the empress for allowing us to attend the diner."

"Don't mention it" the escort said, pushing a button on his wrist bangle and enveloping the group in a white light. When the light receeded they were at the top of the stairs where several buttlers were waiting. One of them opened the main doors for them and lead them to the main hall's huge golden doors "This is it, enjoy" the first dragona said and opened the door...

He started up the staircase. "I do so hate transporters. If it is all the same to you, I would like to keep my atoms connected." He said, chuckling. Rolling his eyes the dragona nodded and lead the way up the stairs to the main door. Once there they too were shown in by a butler and lead to the main doors, just as they opened..

"Yes we are from the TCAF Crucible, I am Admiral Evans, This is Admiral Kane" He waved his paw in the direction of the Orange Wolf. Then he pointed to the red panda and artic fox respectively. "And this is Commander Daur and Baskevyl." As the Dragona passed the Admiral the Sword, he growled slightly at the exquisite craftsmanship that went into the blade. As he got lost in the sword and disappeared back into the Raptor to store it, Admiral Kane stepped forward and pulled out a leather holster, inside of which was a heavy looking platinum handgun, with gold details. Also on the pistols grip was a sapphire jewel and a emerald jewel. The two fashioned together to form the shape of two wolves intertwined. "Whilst your nation has probably far surpassed such primitive fire arms, we wish to present your empresses with this Solid Slug Ceremonial Handgun. It was crafted by are finest weapon smiths to thank the empress for allowing us to attend the diner."

"It is beautiful and is indeed not out of place in our armory, we use similar weapons, just more sophisticaed amunition" the dragona said, bowing as he took the weapon reverently "I shall see to it the the empress recives this imeadiatly, shall we head up on that note?"

Admiral Kane nooded with delight as the Dragona acepted the Handgun. "Don't worry, it can fire most forms of ammuniton so should the need ever arise it wil not fail your empress, although I hope the need to use it never does arise." As Admiral Kane was speaking Admiral Evans came out of the Raptor his tail swining in happiness as he was day dreaming over the sword. He had however overheard the Dragonas comment about heading up. "Yes, Lead on, lets head up."

"doesn't look like we will have a problem getting this thing inside, Please lead the the to were we should put this for the Empress to view it" The chairman said looking back at the two items they brought, One was a large box that looked heavy and was roughly two meters tall. The other one was a small box that could easily fit in a persons hand. both were simply floating there thanks to the telekinetic abilities of one of the body guards.

The Type Nine shuttle departed the massive ship, its sleek metal form glimmering in the light of the star as it made its way down through the atmosphere, Vice President Vanburn and Secretary of State Bester Kayborn both occupied the specially modified shuttle. The Security detachments where heavily armed, storing disruptor rifles in their buffer system, While keeping their side arms plastered to their holster., they stood at attention, sun glasses covering their eyes. The shuttle glided down slowly coming to a stop as its gravatic drives stabilized its landing, a swosh sound was heard as the wind kicked up by its landing dissipated . An honor guard of four marines in dress uniform stood up from the back of the shuttle, two carried old style rifles reminiscent of M1 Grand rifles. The other two held a Federation Guide on and Federation colors. The side door of the modified shuttle opened dematerializing and a force walk extending from emitters on the door way. The side of the shuttle had the Presidential seal. The Honor guard rushed out standing side by side the two holding the flags at the start of the line and the two holding the rifles at the end of the line. As Richard and Bester both walked out the flags where raised and the rifles put to the side of the marines. Hail to the chief began to play for a breath moment or two as the delegates made their way down the ramp towards who ever was waiting for them. They had Diplomatic smiles on their faces.


The agents where already out of the shuttle in a secured position. The psi cop was starting to scan for any other telepaths, Not reading thoughts but simply scanning for any one with TK or PSI ability, the Union Knew full well what a properly trained Tker could do to a national leader with leaving evidence behind. In fact the psi cop him self was a well trained genetically modified cybernetically enhanced Telepath, of course his breed never lived to long when they use their abilities to much. He was one of the highest trained agents on the field. His mind and DNA was modified in such a way that his body and his brain could channel massive burst of telekinetic or telepathic energy at an opponent or in defense. Drugs and treatments pushed his body farther and cybernetic components would help back up his entire existence via QE back to Federation PSI Corps HQ. A smile came over his pale face as the two agents under his command flanked both Terran Officials. The honor guard had long went back in to the shuttle and the thing seemed sealed up as tight as ever, force fields around it kept scans at bay and no visible signs of doors would act as a deterrent against spectators or curious agents.

Richard and Bester both nodded to themselves with a diplomatic smile still plastered on their faces.

“I thank you for your thoughtful gift. Offering a new person you meet a shield is a form of offering to protection them from harm. I greatly appreciate your thoughtfulness.”

Anthony took the huge shield out of the two bearer’s arms with a single hand and turned to place it within his ship. Turning back and noticing the surprised looks on their faces he merely shrugged.

“I am stronger than I appear. I felt it was better to leave it in my ship so I don’t accidently knock anyone over. I too have a gift for your Empress but it is one that is not physical and I will have to present the opportunity to her myself when I meet her.”

Anthony then allowed his person to be searched for weapons knowing it was standard procedure in most diplomatic events. After proving to be unarmed, he opened his briefcase and showed it only contained a few standard devices. His cane was pure hand carved wood with an ornate silver handle adorning the tip. It appeared to be quite old and well worn from use.

“Please lead on and I will follow.”




OOC:

Please check TGs.

Admiral Kane nooded with delight as the Dragona acepted the Handgun. "Don't worry, it can fire most forms of ammuniton so should the need ever arise it wil not fail your empress, although I hope the need to use it never does arise." As Admiral Kane was speaking Admiral Evans came out of the Raptor his tail swining in happiness as he was day dreaming over the sword. He had however overheard the Dragonas comment about heading up. "Yes, Lead on, lets head up."
"Perhapse the transporters would be quicker" the dragona said, pushing a button near his wrist and evneloping the group in the same white light as the others, taking them to the stairs. Once more the butlers opened the doors and lead the group to the golden doors...

"doesn't look like we will have a problem getting this thing inside, Please lead the the to were we should put this for the Empress to view it" The chairman said looking back at the two items they brought, One was a large box that looked heavy and was roughly two meters tall. The other one was a small box that could easily fit in a persons hand. both were simply floating there thanks to the telekinetic abilities of one of the body guards.
"Hm?" the lead dragona said, elequent as ever "Oh she'll look at them before the banquet so I imagine she'd like them in the main hall. Perhapse the stairs would be more apropriate for us, telekenisis and transporters don't mix well.." he trailed off, realizing he'd probably been a bit rude before one of the others said
"This way then" and started to lead the group upstairs to the doors. Again they were taken to the golden doors of the hall...

The Type Nine shuttle departed the massive ship, its sleek metal form glimmering in the light of the star as it made its way down through the atmosphere, Vice President Vanburn and Secretary of State Bester Kayborn both occupied the specially modified shuttle. The Security detachments where heavily armed, storing disruptor rifles in their buffer system, While keeping their side arms plastered to their holster., they stood at attention, sun glasses covering their eyes. The shuttle glided down slowly coming to a stop as its gravatic drives stabilized its landing, a swosh sound was heard as the wind kicked up by its landing dissipated . An honor guard of four marines in dress uniform stood up from the back of the shuttle, two carried old style rifles reminiscent of M1 Grand rifles. The other two held a Federation Guide on and Federation colors. The side door of the modified shuttle opened dematerializing and a force walk extending from emitters on the door way. The side of the shuttle had the Presidential seal. The Honor guard rushed out standing side by side the two holding the flags at the start of the line and the two holding the rifles at the end of the line. As Richard and Bester both walked out the flags where raised and the rifles put to the side of the marines. Hail to the chief began to play for a breath moment or two as the delegates made their way down the ramp towards who ever was waiting for them. They had Diplomatic smiles on their faces.


The agents where already out of the shuttle in a secured position. The psi cop was starting to scan for any other telepaths, Not reading thoughts but simply scanning for any one with TK or PSI ability, the Union Knew full well what a properly trained Tker could do to a national leader with leaving evidence behind. In fact the psi cop him self was a well trained genetically modified cybernetically enhanced Telepath, of course his breed never lived to long when they use their abilities to much. He was one of the highest trained agents on the field. His mind and DNA was modified in such a way that his body and his brain could channel massive burst of telekinetic or telepathic energy at an opponent or in defense. Drugs and treatments pushed his body farther and cybernetic components would help back up his entire existence via QE back to Federation PSI Corps HQ. A smile came over his pale face as the two agents under his command flanked both Terran Officials. The honor guard had long went back in to the shuttle and the thing seemed sealed up as tight as ever, force fields around it kept scans at bay and no visible signs of doors would act as a deterrent against spectators or curious agents.

Richard and Bester both nodded to themselves with a diplomatic smile still plastered on their faces.
ooc: God your so suspicious, anyone would think you didn't trust me *grins evily*

IC: "So you must be from the Terran federation?" a human said, walking up to the deligates "If I may say so that was quite an impressive entrance" he said, starting to ramble slightly untill one of the dragona bearing a gift jabbed him in the side with an elbow, jolting him back to reality "..Uh, sorry. Um.. In the traditions of thye empire, Empress Cheng has instructed us to present you with a gift." he gestured to the 2 dragona behind him who steped forward, carrying between them a large, black-brown branch with deep green needles for leaves "It is from the Meona tree, one of our most treasured things in the galaxy. One of our most sacred"

“I thank you for your thoughtful gift. Offering a new person you meet a shield is a form of offering to protection them from harm. I greatly appreciate your thoughtfulness.”

Anthony took the huge shield out of the two bearer’s arms with a single hand and turned to place it within his ship. Turning back and noticing the surprised looks on their faces he merely shrugged.

“I am stronger than I appear. I felt it was better to leave it in my ship so I don’t accidently knock anyone over. I too have a gift for your Empress but it is one that is not physical and I will have to present the opportunity to her myself when I meet her.”

Anthony then allowed his person to be searched for weapons knowing it was standard procedure in most diplomatic events. After proving to be unarmed, he opened his briefcase and showed it only contained a few standard devices. His cane was pure hand carved wood with an ornate silver handle adorning the tip. It appeared to be quite old and well worn from use.

“Please lead on and I will follow.”

OOC:

Please check TGs.
OOC: Thats a brilliant Idea Balroga. She doesn't have it already, she relys on the the Phy-breeds for it, it'll be usefull.

IC: "Very well, perhapse we should use the transporter, most of the guests are, I belive, about to enter the hall" Garz'vog said, doing as most of the others had and enveloping the group in the white light on the transporter, bringing them to the top of the stairs. Again they were lead to the main hall by the butlers...

OOC: Sorry if thats gettign anoying, I'm gonna rectify it now, wanted to wait for more people to be there

IC:
... The doors opened to reavel a huge marble hall with an arched roof. Most of the walls were covered with pleasent pictures and inlaid with large gold desighns, as was the roof where it met the walls (It was, for the most part, glass), complimenting the splendid view of the night sky.

The floor was made of white marble too and had many veins of colour running thrugh it. In it's middle the imperial seal was placed with golden lines stretching to the far walls and, thanks to the golden lines, the veins in the marble could be seen to be of different colours depedoing on what ocupied that corner of the room.

In the far right corner a small waterfall was placed, surounded by blue veins that seemed to flow from its crystal clear pool.
In the near right corner there was a large carving of a dark dragon fighting one made of pure crystal, the light glinted off of it and dark veins flowed around the black dragona, as if it was blood.
In the far left corner stood a tree, its roots presumably far bellow ground, with several song birds in its branches, green veins flowed from this, as if they were the trees roots.
In the near left corner there was a small shrine. The shirne was made of a strange red stone that glowed faintly in the shadows. In its door way there wasa small flame burning pure red and from its base flowed red veins, as if they had erupted from the ground around it.

Perhapse the most eye catching thing about the room, however, was the group of 3 human children and 2 dragona children running around , laughing, with what looked like chocolate puddins in their hands that they were hurling at each other. Behind them was a veritable hord of servants trying to clean up the mess they children leaving behind.

Beyond them, in the middle of the huge wooden table that went the length of the room and sat on a modest throne, sat empress Cheng, laughing away as one of the clidren scored a particulaly good shot against a butler. She then winced as one of the children fell forward, slid several feet on the polished floor and, standing up again, fell forward into the groin of one of the humans who had escorted the guests up

"Ouch, thats gotta hurt" she said, supressing a chuckle as the man turned white and fell over "Do please come in, It is a pleasure to recive you as my guests" she continued, beconing them in and climbing down form her seat to bow low to the assembled guests then clicking her fingers to start the musicians up. Imeadiatly several of the musicians started to play a warm piece on Gu Zengs, Erhus and Pipas.

As Garz’vog mentioned the transported, Anthony instantly knew what to do. He reached out with his awareness and attached himself subtly to his host. As the transporter disassembled his host and moved his consciousness to the distant location, he was brought along for the ride without anyone noticing, unless they were a strong Psion. Anthony did not get that feeling from his host so felt it would be the best method for in this form, he actually did not possess a body and there would be nothing for the transporter to lock upon. It was the same reason the sensors did not detect his life signs aboard the shuttle when he approached.

As they appeared at the location where the meeting, Anthony had to recreate his telekinetic form along with the photonic projection people mistakenly assumed was a real body. Anthony was really quite good at that trick, something necessary in order to be one of the top diplomats for Balrogga. Unfortunately the transporter logs would read one guest short but there was nothing that could be done about that. Perhaps it would lead to an air of mystery about Balrogga later on.

Anthony walked into the grand hall and saw the children getting into trouble and smiled to himself. Ah, the joys of innocent youth. Hopefully they get to keep hold of the dream as long as possible. As the Empress was Introduced, Anthony wondered if it was acceptable to introduce himself or if it was his guide’s job to do so. He subtly caught Garz’vogs attention and whispered to him.

“I am not sure of your traditions. Am I supposed to introduce myself or is that your position to do so?”

"I could do it if you'd like, there is no tradition regarding it now she has introduced herself" Garz'vog whispered in kind.

Anthony nodded to Garz’vog and stepped forward and preformed a respectable bow but not too dramatic, somehow “just right”.

“Greetings to your Imperial Highness, I am Anthony Stark sent here from the Balrogga Empire at the request of your invitation.”

“I really appreciated your gift of Hospitality and I would give you one in return but first I would ask for a word in private to see if you would really wish the gift I can give.”

Cheng smiled as he started to speak and actualy chuckled as she said "Indeed? Well then, let us speak a moment over here" and pointed to the waterfall "Excuse me a moment my friends" and began to walk towards the clear pool.

After following the Empress over to the waterfall but still quite in sight of the others Anthony spoke to the Empress.

“The gift I would like to offer you is one you may not wish others to know you possess. The Ta’Nar are quite gifted Psions and I would offer to gift you with an ability quite unique and usable in your daily life. I would like to offer you the ability to hear the unprotected thoughts of those who stand before you. It would only be the surface thoughts and it would be restricted to line of sight but a Talent like that would assist you in your duties as both a Judge and to prevent anyone from attacking you lest their thoughts betray them first.”

“I can perform the procedure which would take about an hour of your time. At first things will most likely seem kind of bizarre but as you learn to use your ability you would get used to blocking and filtering out thoughts you do not wish to hear. Of course I would show you how to shield yourself so you would never have an unprotected mind again unless you were rendered unconscious or drugged.”

“This is a heavy decision for you to think about so you can take your time, like I said I but need an hour to perform the procedure and then some instruction and training on the usage.”


“Just let me know when you decide. Until then, I will take my leave and let you greet the other guests.”

"An intersting gift" Cheng said quite calmly, picking up a [URL http://images.livescience.com/images/071030-leaf-frog-04.jpg]small frog[URL\] and stroking its head, to whitch it croaked hapily. After a few moments she said "Verywell. Your gift is gladly acepted and you are quite right, we should head back over." she smiled at the frog and placed it gently back in the water and walked back over to the assembled deligates.

As she aproached she smiled as she saw the children now struggling to break free of the iron grip of some security members "release astahi" she said in a stern voice. The gurds complied and she utterd to the children in Drag-hur "behae usv gethrisj svern stair" and turned back to her guests as the children started to sulk.

"Hm?" the lead dragona said, elequent as ever "Oh she'll look at them before the banquet so I imagine she'd like them in the main hall. Perhapse the stairs would be more apropriate for us, telekenisis and transporters don't mix well.." he trailed off, realizing he'd probably been a bit rude before one of the others said
"This way then" and started to lead the group upstairs to the doors. Again they were taken to the golden doors of the hall...


The group followed close behind the lead dragona as to not accidentally get separated and lost. While they were walking the chairman and the others had there eyes wandering around as they walked admiring the architecture of the building. The chairman did find it impressive, and even stunning to say the least. When they were let into the main hall they simply walked towards the center of the room and stopped. Lucy used her abilities to gently put the gifts on the ground. They didn't yet open them, there was no point in revealing a gift if they couldn't explain it to the one they were giving it to.

Richard bowed a bit taking the gift, in his hand, he promptly gave it to one of the agents who had it beamed into shuttle. Richard said.

“Thank you for the gift, and it’s a pleasure to meet you and your people. I shall arrange for some thing to be sent to you , as the Federation tends to get even in both good and bad ways”

He said this with a a smug smile over his face. Bester quickly interjected speaking out in a diplomatic voice.


“Ahh well it was an honor to receive that gift indeed diplomats from our nation haven’t met your people face to face in a non confrontational manner. This is a refreshing change of pace”

The agents flanked both Bester and Richard in a standard protective formation.

(ooc my nations at war right now so yeah I'm a bit paranoid about my national leaders :P)

The group followed close behind the lead dragona as to not accidentally get separated and lost. While they were walking the chairman and the others had there eyes wandering around as they walked admiring the architecture of the building. The chairman did find it impressive, and even stunning to say the least. When they were let into the main hall they simply walked towards the center of the room and stopped. Lucy used her abilities to gently put the gifts on the ground. They didn't yet open them, there was no point in revealing a gift if they couldn't explain it to the one they were giving it to.
"Ooo, what's this?" she said, noticing the large box "May I" she said, reaching for the lid.

Richard bowed a bit taking the gift, in his hand, he promptly gave it to one of the agents who had it beamed into shuttle. Richard said.

“Thank you for the gift, and it’s a pleasure to meet you and your people. I shall arrange for some thing to be sent to you , as the Federation tends to get even in both good and bad ways”

He said this with a a smug smile over his face. Bester quickly interjected speaking out in a diplomatic voice.


“Ahh well it was an honor to receive that gift indeed diplomats from our nation haven’t met your people face to face in a non confrontational manner. This is a refreshing change of pace”

The agents flanked both Bester and Richard in a standard protective formation.

(ooc my nations at war right now so yeah I'm a bit paranoid about my national leaders :P)

OOC: Ah, ok. You can trust me *spikes drink*

IC: "Mmm, thoe the old pace was not just our fault. If we had been given a chance to show the federation before now how much we'd changed since our first meeting then we would perhapse be having an even more pleasent time" the human said, checking his watch "Barzlun! We should probably head up, the other guests will be there by now, transporters will be fastest. Shall we?"

Sancticus looked at the children as he entered the hall, taking a step back to avoid a flying pudding.
"I see your wards are as energetic as ever, ma'am." He took off his rebreather ( symbol of good intent in the Void, originating from where an assassin had once killed a king with a needle held between teeth, hidden by a clan mask) and held his left hand to his face, spreading his fingers so his thumb and little finger were on his cheeks, his index and ring were over his eyelids and his middle finger was on his forehead, bowing his head for a second before looking back at the Queen. "How does the day find you? I have given the Void's gift to one of your stewards, if he would be so kind as to present it?"

"Thank you" Chen said, straightening up from the box and turning to face the admaral and holding out a hand for the ring to be handed over. Once she had it she looked at it intently before saying "Is this.... Kytaf?" she asked, curiously, examining the ring more closely.

"Ooo, what's this?" she said, noticing the large box "May I" she said, reaching for the lid.


"But of course, your majesty" the chairman said with a bow, he then watched her remove the top of the large box. The sides began to move away from object inside but Lucy quickly moved them and placed them on the ground. What was left standing was a stone statue of two female figures, they were back to back, holding one hand together on one side of the statue. The chairman cleared his throat and began to explain "This statue is a replica of one in a ancient temple on our home planet of two goddesses, the one on the left holding the spear is the goddess of victory, and on the right is the goddess of prosperity, there two that almost go hand in hand in our culture" he then grabbed and opened up the smaller box revealing a necklace made of stunning jewels "This is a one of a kind necklace for you as well, from what we have found these gems are only native to our part of the galaxy" he said getting down on one knee to present the necklace to her.

"Thank you" Chen said, straightening up from the box and turning to face the admaral and holding out a hand for the ring to be handed over. Once she had it she looked at it intently before saying "Is this.... Kytaf?" she asked, curiously, examining the ring more closely.

"Yes ma'am. Warlord Kyoswpdoq, I believe. Engraved with his date of death and clan, if you are interested in those sort of things. I hope you find it adequate. It pales in comparison to the gift you gave us."

A massive, crimson-colored wormhole opened a few hundred kilometers from the planet. The Saving Grace (OOC: see OOC thread) cruised out before it collapsed, the small shockwave hitting the shields harmlessly. It turned and sailed toward the planet slowly.

On the bridge President Steele, Vice President D'Angelo and Grand Admiral Graves all watched from the comfort of the three central chairs reserved for the Captain, Executive Officer, and the next ranking official on the bridge. The Comm Officer hailed Orbital Control,

"Cha'ti Control, this is the DWS Saving Grace requesting clearance to enter orbit and beam down three VIP's and two guards. Please acknowledge, over."

The massive flagship was one of two the Dominion had built over the years. The second, rather than an artillery piece, had been built as a ship-of-the-line and was occupied elsewhere.

"Transports don't really agree with me....." Admiral Evans managed before he was engulfed in the white light. As they re-materilised Admiral Evans smoothed down his fur but was presently suprised that these telporters didn't have the effects on him as most other teleporters. Shaking his head and with a swish of his tail he walked into the room alongside admiral Kane. Seeing that the empress was otherwise ocuppied they walked of to one side. Admiral Kane gave a small laugh at the sight of the children playing as it reminded her of her own cubs back on Tainith.

"Yes ma'am. Warlord Kyoswpdoq, I believe. Engraved with his date of death and clan, if you are interested in those sort of things. I hope you find it adequate. It pales in comparison to the gift you gave us."
"Indeed. That must have been a skilled warrier to kill a warlord. Again, you have my thanks."


"But of course, your majesty" the chairman said with a bow, he then watched her remove the top of the large box. The sides began to move away from object inside but Lucy quickly moved them and placed them on the ground. What was left standing was a stone statue of two female figures, they were back to back, holding one hand together on one side of the statue. The chairman cleared his throat and began to explain "This statue is a replica of one in a ancient temple on our home planet of two goddesses, the one on the left holding the spear is the goddess of victory, and on the right is the goddess of prosperity, there two that almost go hand in hand in our culture" he then grabbed and opened up the smaller box revealing a necklace made of stunning jewels "This is a one of a kind necklace for you as well, from what we have found these gems are only native to our part of the galaxy" he said getting down on one knee to present the necklace to her.

She turned back to the box and lifted of its lid, raising a her brow as she say the statue "That is a good gift indeed, and doubtless it will fit perfectly in the throne room of Neonopolis." she smiled and told 4 dragona, in galactic standard, to carry the statue to a place where a ship could take it to Ih8uwannakillu imediatly and turned back to the chairman as he opened the box and gasped. When he had finished speaking she said "It is beautiful.", lost for better words "Indeed I dare not leave it out for now"
She beconed to a servant and said "Ekess sia cuaili" and bowed low to the chairman "Your gifts are great indeed Chairman and they are gratefuly recived, thank you"

A massive, crimson-colored wormhole opened a few hundred kilometers from the planet. The Saving Grace (OOC: see OOC thread) cruised out before it collapsed, the small shockwave hitting the shields harmlessly. It turned and sailed toward the planet slowly.

On the bridge President Steele, Vice President D'Angelo and Grand Admiral Graves all watched from the comfort of the three central chairs reserved for the Captain, Executive Officer, and the next ranking official on the bridge. The Comm Officer hailed Orbital Control,

"Cha'ti Control, this is the DWS Saving Grace requesting clearance to enter orbit and beam down three VIP's and two guards. Please acknowledge, over."

The massive flagship was one of two the Dominion had built over the years. The second, rather than an artillery piece, had been built as a ship-of-the-line and was occupied elsewhere.

"DWS Saving Grace this is Cha'ti space-traffic controle. You are cleared to proceed at maximum speed, you're running a little late, we're sending a modified set of co-ordinaes, they'll take you to the main entrance of the palace. Enjoy the stay" and then the transmition ended.


In the main hall one of the children (a female dragona with oddly periwinkle coloured scales) proded Kane in the leg and said in a disturbingly knowing voice "Astra esterni ono thelduin, wolf-child"

"Roger that, STC. We are in the pipe, five-by-five and proceeding to geostationary orbit," the Comm Officer replied.

The flagship moved into orbit and the party was beamed down. The group was attempting to get its bearing on where it was sent.

The butlers at the door half-ran to the group and beconed for them to folled. Without waiting they walked quickly into the building, still beconing, and headed to the main hall.

Bester and Richard nodded, he stood forth ready to depart along with their three escorts. The vice president made a comment his eyes looking over the odd races that seemed to have arrived.

"Well it will be good trying to make peace here and hammer out a treaty. wouldn't you say"

He asked the person escorting them to the transport with a grin over his face. Of course that might be to much to hope for but then maybe not, the Federation did not know the dragonans very well. That might change, Knowing bester he would probably try to sleep with some one. He chuckled as the thought came through his head. It relaxed him a bit.

She turned back to the box and lifted of its lid, raising a her brow as she say the statue "That is a good gift indeed, and doubtless it will fit perfectly in the throne room of Neonopolis." she smiled and told 4 dragona, in galactic standard, to carry the statue to a place where a ship could take it to Ih8uwannakillu imediatly and turned back to the chairman as he opened the box and gasped. When he had finished speaking she said "It is beautiful.", lost for better words "Indeed I dare not leave it out for now"
She beconed to a servant and said "Ekess sia cuaili" and bowed low to the chairman "Your gifts are great indeed Chairman and they are gratefuly recived, thank you"

"It is I who should thank you for having us as guests, your majesty" he said standing up. He then took a final bow to her "I'm sure you have other guests to greet and such so we won't keep you, we shall take our leave now until the event" he said raising his head. Right beside him Christina had a copy of the map they were given which showed where they were staying during the event, it didn't take long for her to figure it out "Chairman, I have our route to our rooms" she said to him.

The butlers at the door half-ran to the group and beconed for them to folled. Without waiting they walked quickly into the building, still beconing, and headed to the main hall.

The group, understanding why they were being rushed, followed quickly. All of them had served in the military at one time or another and knew to double-time it.

Bester and Richard nodded, he stood forth ready to depart along with their three escorts. The vice president made a comment his eyes looking over the odd races that seemed to have arrived.

"Well it will be good trying to make peace here and hammer out a treaty. wouldn't you say"

He asked the person escorting them to the transport with a grin over his face. Of course that might be to much to hope for but then maybe not, the Federation did not know the dragonans very well. That might change, Knowing bester he would probably try to sleep with some one. He chuckled as the thought came through his head. It relaxed him a bit.
"Perhapse" was the only reply he got as they were enveloped in the white light, rematerialising at the top of the stairs as the others had. "It would appear the butlers are already inside... No matter, we know the way" the human said and led the way at a fast pace towards the hall.

"It is I who should thank you for having us as guests, your majesty" he said standing up. He then took a final bow to her "I'm sure you have other guests to greet and such so we won't keep you, we shall take our leave now until the event" he said raising his head. Right beside him Christina had a copy of the map they were given which showed where they were staying during the event, it didn't take long for her to figure it out "Chairman, I have our route to our rooms" she said to him.
ooc: Um, its a banquet, not a sleep over lol. I was about to say for the guests to mingle and then greet her when they can...

The group, understanding why they were being rushed, followed quickly. All of them had served in the military at one time or another and knew to double-time it.
"Ah, and who is this?" Cheng said, turning to face the butler who had just rushed up to her "Speak".
The buttler whispered something into her ear and she nodded before he rushed back to the entrance and anounced in a suprisingly loud voice "Ladys and gentle men, the delegates from Ruthless Slaughter!" and gestured to the door as they ran in, several of the servants reached into thier jackets and gowns as they did so before removing them with a disproving glare from the empress.

Bester and Richard Raised an eyebrow and then shrugged, the followed the lead of who ever was around, they both stuck together as the agents took security and observation positions around them. Bester sighed a bit as he looked around. Richard adjusted him self slightly.

Of course what this day would bring, is any ones guess. They where both dressed with well pressed black suits, white shirts and black ties. but both looked radically different. Bester was middle aged, but his face was young. His hair was black and his eyes blue an odd mixture.

Richard Looked older, salt and peppered hair. brown eyes, and a more toned face and body structure.

"My lady, assembled guests. Allow me to present the delegates from the Federal Uninion" The human said loudly as he entered the room, barging past the butler and sending him flying to the floor where the children set upon him with felt-tip pens.

"Ladys and gentle men, the delegates from Ruthless Slaughter!"
"My lady, assembled guests. Allow me to present the delegates from the Federal Uninion" The human said loudly as he entered the room, barging past the butler and sending him flying to the floor where the children set upon him with felt-tip pens.

Sancticus raised an eyebrow, left corner of his mouth pinned in a thin smile, before his eyes jumped from the beseiged butler to the new arrivals, then to and from the servants reaching for their weapons, all in a split-second, taking in every detail. He raised the other eyebrow, in his very measured way, as he heard who the latest arrivals were.
The Federal Union, eh? Well, this should at least be interesting.

"My lady, assembled guests. Allow me to present the delegates from the Federal Uninion" The human said loudly as he entered the room, barging past the butler and sending him flying to the floor where the children set upon him with felt-tip pens.

Admiral Kane and Evans were talking as the delegates from the Fedral Union entered. Upon hearing the words 'Fedral Union' the three marines tightened the grips on thier weapons and the two admirals spun around paws going for where the handguns should of been. "Feedral Union....you know what they are doing to...." Wispered Commander Daur to Baskeyvel, "Yes, Yes I do" he replied.

Admiral Kane and Evans were talking as the delegates from the Fedral Union entered. Upon hearing the words 'Fedral Union' the three marines tightened the grips on thier weapons and the two admirals spun around paws going for where the handguns should of been. "Feedral Union....you know what they are doing to...." Wispered Commander Daur to Baskeyvel, "Yes, Yes I do" he replied.

Sancticus spotted this and paced over to the two admirals.
"Peace." He muttered, speaking under his breath so as the Federal Union reps couldn't hear. "They won't try anything here, and this is a diplomatic mission, especially not while their inside a palace surrounded by armed guards."

The President looked around, recognizing several delegations that the Dominion had worked with over the years. The Fedral Union and Void Templar being the strongest of their ties (which due to an influential isolationist party[OOC: I'm not on much anymore >.<] was still not amazingly strong). He smiled as he turned to his constituents,

"Let's see some old friends and make new ones."

With that the group split off with the VP and an agent shadowing her moving to the Union delegation and The President and Admiral Graves with the other agent heading toward the Sancticus and the Wolf Hold delegation.

"Greetings," the President smiled and gave the customary slight bow of the head to both representatives in turn, "I am President Jason Steele of the Dominion of Ruthless Slaughter, and this is Grand Admiral Steven Graves, commanding officer of our navy."

The Admiral removed his cap and bowed his also, "We have had relations with the Void Templar, though unfortunately mostly in times of war. We have never officially opened relations with the Wolf Hold, however, but I hope today will change that."

Kimberly smiled as she walked up to the Fedral representatives, "Gentlemen, Vice President Kimberly D'Angelo of the Dominion. A pleasure to see our allies here at this banquet, though we haven't kept to current events and I'm a little curious as to your unpopularity."

"Greetings," the President smiled and gave the customary slight bow of the head to both representatives in turn, "I am President Jason Steele of the Dominion of Ruthless Slaughter, and this is Grand Admiral Steven Graves, commanding officer of our navy."

The Admiral removed his cap and bowed his also, "We have had relations with the Void Templar, though unfortunately mostly in times of war. We have never officially opened relations with the Wolf Hold, however, but I hope today will change that."

Sancticus bowed in return, giving the same hand-across-the-face salute he had given the Emperess a few minutes ago, doffing his cap but not removing it.
"Admiral Rostislav Sanctius, Void Templarian Navy. A pleasure, sirs." He frowned and nodded. "A shame our people have met mostly on the battlefield, be that alongside or against each other. The fires of war can forge good ties however, Master Graves, and I would very much hope that to be the case between the Dominion and the Order."

OOC: Sancticus, by the way, is a member of the aristocracy. Hence the stiff upper lip style of talk.

The empress wandered over to the Wolfhold party and in a slightly amused tone "I take it you've had a similar relationship with with the Federal Union to ours?" she said, smiling and holding up a finger
"A word of advice. Forgeting the trubbles of ones past will lighten the burden on the mind, and a burden, how ever light, is always lighter when it is shared. Make peace with them this night atleast, my guards are twitchy enough with out your men reaching for a gun, paranoia does that... Speaking of guns, was it you who gifted me with this?" she said, holding up the intricate hand gun.

OOC: my mistake

"You obviously hit one to many buttons, or read something wrong there, this isn't a state visit were we will be hear for several days, we come, we say our hellos, talk with others, eat and so on, then we leave, like any other dinner party, re-plot the map for the dinning hall Ms.McKnight, I'm sure we will meet others along the way" the chairman told her. She quickly fixed her mistake, every diplomat was allowed to make some once and a while. They then left the room for the banquet, if it wasn't time yet they would just talk with the others there until it was.

Richard and Bester both raised an eyebrow as the secret service agents in their semi powered suits rushed to surround the two delegates. Richard responded quickly.


“ Thank you. Please, there is no need for.. Unwarranted aggression we are here on a peaceful diplomatic mission I intend to sign a Non Aggression pact with Ih8uwannakillu. I don’t know why you civilized nations are so afraid of us its rather disheartening you do not trust us, but be assured killing foreign delegates is not the way to gain diplomatic favor, and I assure the wolfhold delegation that if I end up dead, and its by their hand their government will not survive in its current form .”

Richard smiled as he waved is guards off the agents moved to the side slightly. The psi cop glared at the wolfholdian representative with a pricing look, his brown eyes narrowing upon them as if he where at the ready to unleash some thing at a moments notice. Bester looked up at him and said with a nervous chuckle.

“Don’t worry agent, stand down. They wont do any thing to us.”

The psi cop nodded turning his gaze to the one who approached them he relaxed as the dominion delegate passed by.

Bester and Richard both bowed and a diplomatic smile came across their faces.

Richard Spoke first

“Hello, my name is Vice President Richard Vanburn, and this is secretary of state Bester Kayborn.”


He said this point to Bester how bowed slightly again.

Richard continued.


“I think the reaction here has to do with a recent war that an anthromorphic nation declared on us with out cause, In response we tendered our own deceleration back and now an allied force of our ships and others that have joined with us are successfully invading this nation. GPI I think they are called? Nontheless they are a really nasty bunch that would hate any one who uses robotic assistance in their economies or free market nations.”

He said this loud enough for the entire room to here but did not have to yell.

Richard sighed taking a breath as he sightly looked back to the wolf hold delegation.


Bester looked up at the Domnion vice president and gave a soft smile. Bester was the Youngest Secretary of state the federation had. Of course he wasn’t about to go on hitting on foreign leaders he knew nothing about just yet any way. The agents kept an eye one every one who had almost shot up the place, their eyes and implanted sensors scanning for every thing from explosive’s to toxins , to activated weapons.

"You obviously hit one to many buttons, or read something wrong there, this isn't a state visit were we will be hear for several days, we come, we say our hellos, talk with others, eat and so on, then we leave, like any other dinner party, re-plot the map for the dinning hall Ms.McKnight, I'm sure we will meet others along the way" the chairman told her. She quickly fixed her mistake, every diplomat was allowed to make some once and a while. They then left the room for the banquet, if it wasn't time yet they would just talk with the others there until it was.

"Excuse me sirs, but the banquet takes place in the main hall, hence the large table" a butler said as he walked around the corner with a large platter of entrais.

"Man we are both out of it today, man is my face red, heh heh heh thank god there no cameras to capture this mess up" the chairman said with a slight chuckle while scratching his head. Lucy then stepped up "Well then your excellency, I believe we should find some seats and sit down" she then turned to look around "hmm Kyle, Ayame, stay here I'm going to find us some suitable drinks"

"There probably on the table's already Ma'am"

"your probably right, lets just get a seat"

A small pocket of space just above the planet Cha'ti crackled violently, a small spaceship appearing out of nowhere in its midst. The ship, the PRGR Unity, looked to anyone viewing it as a sick joke; it was shaking violently from the hyperspace jump, and had the appearance of the aerospace equivalent of a shanty town shack, far behind even the rank-and-file ships of the fleets of more developed nations.

On board, a very shaken President Ami Rosewater III regained her composure. This was the first time in her life she had ever visited another civilised planet, as well as the first time she'd ever travelled through hyperspace, and was trying desperately to hide her nerves. Her bodyguards looked at her sympathetically. The poor girl was at least trying, they concluded.

(ooc: woops, I didn't see that post there, this'll continue on the next page)

"... Ooo, nibbles" Cheng broke off from her conversation as the entrais entered the room and imediatly plucked a large shimp form the platter and heading over the group from the Federal Union.

"Rest assured sir, we do not fear you, only that you don't seem to trust us" she said sternly, then breaking into a laugh she said "Welcome to you, I trust your trip was good?"

As she spoke the music stoped and was replaced instantly by another piece, this one on several more modern instruments.

In orbit a small sentinal drone was hovering around the Unity, proding it gingerly with one of its feelers and emiting *beeps* and *boops* as it transmitted to space trafic controle. It drifted towards the front of the ship and paused as it detected some life signs. Scratching its head with another feeler it emited a series of rapid noises and flew off.

In space trafic controle, the room was silent for a moment before the ocupents burst out laughing. After a minuit they managed to calm down enough to open a channel.

"Unidentified vessle, this is Cha'ti space-traffic controle. State your identification and reason for your presance here, over"

Richard smiled and gave a gentle bow as he responded in a diplomatic yet casual voice.

"Oh it was, watching old earth sports really gives one an appetite I would at least like one highlight of my career to be that we made peace with one anthromorphic nation."

He smiled, Bester mean while had made his way to a group of random waiters in search of interesting conversation. He was not partial to high class or heads of state, since he likes to get in to the culture of a nation. And to do that one needs to know the people. Things where calm so far. Richard was relaxed now Bester was as well.

"Ha! As would we all, perhapse the path to peace will start here? So where is Earth? I've never heard of it, bit of a strange name for a steller object isn't it?" She said casualy fliting between topics

Anthonly remained in a little out of the way corner watching everyone. He had placed himself purposely in the best position to observe everyone and used all his senses to monitor everyone while making seperate files on heac of little details he notices int heir actions and mannerisms. If someone was right-handed, theit avoidance of Drink, their attitudes, and even the thoughts they emitted. Anthony was making shure to passively monitor the thoughts of the guests. He would not make a foolish mistake of trying to intrude in someone elses mind by taking an active move, instead listening to the "static" caused by the non-Psi in the room unconsciously broadcasting their surface thoughts as they spoke. Anthony also made nore of any individuals who posses Talent for later investigation.



OOC:

If you want me to "overhear" some errant thoughts, just place then in green fonts.

Admiral Kane blood was up so much she couldnt actually hear the other delegates speaking and she also didnt hear when the empress asked her about the handgun. All she could do was stare coldly at the Fedral Union party, only being held back slightly. However the words of the others and those of her own party seemed to get through as she calmed down and stoped growling. "I hope the GPI kick them back to thier blasted earth" She said to no one in-paticular, "Or we will do it for them". she thought.The Marines were still holding thier weapons tightly and she knew that they would only serve to agrevate the situation. "Marines! Stand Down! Stand Down!" She said loudly. After the Marines had relaxed their grip on their weapons she noticed that the empress had gone back to talking with the Fedral Union delegates so she waited for them to finish.

Anthonly remained in a little out of the way corner watching everyone. He had placed himself purposely in the best position to observe everyone and used all his senses to monitor everyone while making seperate files on heac of little details he notices int heir actions and mannerisms. If someone was right-handed, theit avoidance of Drink, their attitudes, and even the thoughts they emitted. Anthony was making shure to passively monitor the thoughts of the guests. He would not make a foolish mistake of trying to intrude in someone elses mind by taking an active move, instead listening to the "static" caused by the non-Psi in the room unconsciously broadcasting their surface thoughts as they spoke. Anthony also made nore of any individuals who posses Talent for later investigation.

OOC:

If you want me to "overhear" some errant thoughts, just place then in green fonts.
"What ya doin?" a small voice said from somewhere near Antonys knee, acompanied with a sharp poke.

Ami went over her hopes for the banquet in her head. Golden Rebirth, having only just picked itself up from a technological dark age after the mysterious fall of Random Kingdom, was failing technologically, and with few diplomatic connections there was hardly any flow of much-needed information and aid. The economy was in terrible shape, for which she placed most of the blame on her predecessors and their overly ambitious economic goals. If she could make a good impression at this meeting of ambassadors from all over the universe, then perhaps she could find some important allies, and - more importantly - new friends.

She brought herself back to reality with a thump when she glanced at the clock panel on the wall. Was that the time? If her knowledge of the hosts' time system served her correctly, the meeting had already begun! She must have made a mistake during planning for the journey - something she had been keen to oversee personally - and consequently her chances of making a good impression were even slimmer than she had previously feared.

She went to the intercom for her modest quarters on the ship, and spoke in a somewhat worried tone to the captain. "B-begin communications with Cha'ti, and would you kindly apologise on my behalf for being so late?"

---

The captain was interrupted by Cha'ti control before he could begin his own transmission. To their request for identification, he replied:
"This is Captain Jones of the PRGR Unity to Cha'ti control. Requesting permission and co-ordinates to land; we have a head of government representing the Earth nation of Golden Rebirth and two bodyguards that wish to attend the banquet; personal apologies from the President for being late; over."

Making sure not to lose track of what he was observing, Anthony looked down to see what was trying to poke his telekinetic "body".

"Just watching for now. It is best to have some sort of information about a society when you first speak to them. If you watch, you will get to learn alot."

"Who might you be?"

Ami went over her hopes for the banquet in her head. Golden Rebirth, having only just picked itself up from a technological dark age after the mysterious fall of Random Kingdom, was failing technologically, and with few diplomatic connections there was hardly any flow of much-needed information and aid. The economy was in terrible shape, for which she placed most of the blame on her predecessors and their overly ambitious economic goals. If she could make a good impression at this meeting of ambassadors from all over the universe, then perhaps she could find some important allies, and - more importantly - new friends.

She brought herself back to reality with a thump when she glanced at the clock panel on the wall. Was that the time? If her knowledge of the hosts' time system served her correctly, the meeting had already begun! She must have made a mistake during planning for the journey - something she had been keen to oversee personally - and consequently her chances of making a good impression were even slimmer than she had previously feared.

She went to the intercom for her modest quarters on the ship, and spoke in a somewhat worried tone to the captain. "B-begin communications with Cha'ti, and would you kindly apologise on my behalf for being so late?"

---

The captain was interrupted by Cha'ti control before he could begin his own transmission. To their request for identification, he replied:
"This is Captain Jones of the PRGR Unity to Cha'ti control. Requesting permission and co-ordinates to land; we have a head of government representing the Earth nation of Golden Rebirth and two bodyguards that wish to attend the banquet; personal apologies from the President for being late; over."
"Copy that unity, transport to the attached co-ordinates, If you can. Or shall we do it for you?"

Making sure not to lose track of what he was observing, Anthony looked down to see what was trying to poke his telekinetic "body".

"Just watching for now. It is best to have some sort of information about a society when you first speak to them. If you watch, you will get to learn alot."

"Who might you be?"
"Ajjaren" the smal male dragona said happily, siting crossleged on the ground next to him "Why isn't your body solid?" he asked, typicly ignorent to social etiquet.

“Why? It is because I am a ghost… BOO!”

Anthony obviously did not even attempt to say that while being serious. He took a seat in a chair that appeared under him out from nowhere, actually just a simple modification of his photonic projection. He was chuckling with the child as he turned his attention to the little one sitting on the floor. He continued to monitor the room behind him while he spoke to him.

“Well Ajjaren, I could tell you any number of tales about how my body was stolen by pirates or evil overlords but that would be dishonest, especially for such an honest and innocent question. The truth is much more boring.”

“You know how Humans and Dragona are different species, as well as some others in this room that are visiting. I am a Ta’Nar. Ta’Nar are pure thought but normally people cannot see thoughts although I have encountered species that can easily do so. In order to be able to interact with other species, we create bodies out of Telekinetic force and dress them in illusions of excited photons. They are like holograms but made using my mind instead of a device. I made this chair appear so the others would not see me crouching down to talk to you. If they think I am merely sitting down they might not see you and shush you away.”

"Whatever is optimal and convenient. We don't possess any teleporting or beaming devices, so we will need to make a full landing."

“Why? It is because I am a ghost… BOO!”

Anthony obviously did not even attempt to say that while being serious. He took a seat in a chair that appeared under him out from nowhere, actually just a simple modification of his photonic projection. He was chuckling with the child as he turned his attention to the little one sitting on the floor. He continued to monitor the room behind him while he spoke to him.

“Well Ajjaren, I could tell you any number of tales about how my body was stolen by pirates or evil overlords but that would be dishonest, especially for such an honest and innocent question. The truth is much more boring.”

“You know how Humans and Dragona are different species, as well as some others in this room that are visiting. I am a Ta’Nar. Ta’Nar are pure thought but normally people cannot see thoughts although I have encountered species that can easily do so. In order to be able to interact with other species, we create bodies out of Telekinetic force and dress them in illusions of excited photons. They are like holograms but made using my mind instead of a device. I made this chair appear so the others would not see me crouching down to talk to you. If they think I am merely sitting down they might not see you and shush you away.”
"They wouldn't dare" Ajjaren said in mock horror "If they did they'd probably be executed, manhandling princes does that. So, you picking anything good up yet?"

"Whatever is optimal and convenient. We don't possess any teleporting or beaming devices, so we will need to make a full landing."
"Verywell" the voice came before a green scanning beam sweapt the bridge and a white light followed, pulling the deligate from the ship into the main hall behind Cheng
"Oh, hello" she said, turning to show her 'snout' and sparkling clear eyes.

Sancticus bowed in return, giving the same hand-across-the-face salute he had given the Emperess a few minutes ago, doffing his cap but not removing it.
"Admiral Rostislav Sanctius, Void Templarian Navy. A pleasure, sirs." He frowned and nodded. "A shame our people have met mostly on the battlefield, be that alongside or against each other. The fires of war can forge good ties however, Master Graves, and I would very much hope that to be the case between the Dominion and the Order."

OOC: Sancticus, by the way, is a member of the aristocracy. Hence the stiff upper lip style of talk.

The Admiral smiled, "As do I, and it's a pleasure to meet both of you. Perhaps we can compare notes on tactics and preferences on shipbuilding material sometime"

"As well as trade agreements," the President added, "But not tonight. I don't about either of you but I'm long overdue for a break."


The psi cop nodded turning his gaze to the one who approached them he relaxed as the dominion delegate passed by.

Bester and Richard both bowed and a diplomatic smile came across their faces.

Richard Spoke first

“Hello, my name is Vice President Richard Vanburn, and this is secretary of state Bester Kayborn.”


He said this point to Bester how bowed slightly again.

Richard continued.


“I think the reaction here has to do with a recent war that an anthromorphic nation declared on us with out cause, In response we tendered our own deceleration back and now an allied force of our ships and others that have joined with us are successfully invading this nation. GPI I think they are called? Nontheless they are a really nasty bunch that would hate any one who uses robotic assistance in their economies or free market nations.”

He said this loud enough for the entire room to here but did not have to yell.

Richard sighed taking a breath as he sightly looked back to the wolf hold delegation.


Bester looked up at the Domnion vice president and gave a soft smile. Bester was the Youngest Secretary of state the federation had. Of course he wasn’t about to go on hitting on foreign leaders he knew nothing about just yet any way. The agents kept an eye one every one who had almost shot up the place, their eyes and implanted sensors scanning for every thing from explosive’s to toxins , to activated weapons.

She nodded, "An understandable reaction. They are against all forms of artificial constructs? I suppose it's a good thing we hadn't brought along any holographic lifeforms or AI's then. Then again, there are always two sides to every story and they will undoubtedly elaborate."

Richard nodded and sighed saying in a quick response to the dominion delegation.

"Indeed, I wonder if there will be any festiveness" He then turned to the dragonan statesperson and said.

"Yes I hope peace will start here, at any rate tell me about your people I am interested in them"

Bester meanwhile had gone off to a corner already standing there and observing the room silently.

(OOC: Assuming the bodyguards were transported with Ami... and I haven't thought of any gifts for the Empress (yet?), not that there is anything worthy of her time that GR could possibly gift >.<)

Ami, left temporarily breathless and speechless by the hosts' technology, and saddened by the realisation that it was standard technology and that her antiquated spaceship was ancient history by compare, took a while to answer. "I... I'm honoured to make your acquaintance. I'm President Ami Rosewater III of the... humble nation of Golden Rebirth. Many thanks for having me here tonight, I'm sure it will be a great experience to dine with people from many different planets and cultures."

Her words were now coming out in a hurried, nervous stream, accompanied by a cautious smile. Ami was never a good diplomat, but wanted to give it a try anyway. "I apologise for being late... entirely my fault, I'm afraid to say. You must be the... " - she paused briefly to allow her brief research into the party and its host to return to the front of her memory - "Empress Cheng? I must say I'm impressed already with your hospitality, and I haven't even started on the banquet yet. But... enough talking... where would you have and my bodyguards stay for now?"

Admiral Kane blood was up so much she couldnt actually hear the other delegates speaking and she also didnt hear when the empress asked her about the handgun. All she could do was stare coldly at the Fedral Union party, only being held back slightly. However the words of the others and those of her own party seemed to get through as she calmed down and stoped growling. "I hope the GPI kick them back to thier blasted earth" She said to no one in-paticular, "Or we will do it for them". she thought.The Marines were still holding thier weapons tightly and she knew that they would only serve to agrevate the situation. "Marines! Stand Down! Stand Down!" She said loudly. After the Marines had relaxed their grip on their weapons she noticed that the empress had gone back to talking with the Fedral Union delegates so she waited for them to finish.


Bester just shoot his head and taped on a wrist mounted holo computer, he smugly said as he peered back at them wondering why they where so hostile.

"I do not know why you insist, on showing anger to people who have done nothing to you or your kind, if you continue this undiplomatic behavior we will black list you and put you on our yellow list. Do not tempt me. If we where any other nation we would construed your primitive and alarmingly undiplomatic move as an act of war. One dose not pull weapons on a diplomatic party, Or in a peaceful place. "

He chuckled to him self knowing this might make him look a bit arrogant and a little like an ass but he didn't care at this point, Richard glared at him and shook his head wondering how some one like that could become secretary of state, but he just accepted it. Bester had had enough of "furry nations" harassing the union for no reason it was annoying, and reports of heightened anti furry sentiment with the citizenry of the union where becoming more wide spread. But it was only natural when their country is constantly assailed by them.

"I do not know why you insist, on showing anger to people who have done nothing to you or your kind, if you continue this undiplomatic behavior we will black list you and put you on our yellow list. Do not tempt me. If we where any other nation we would construed your primitive and alarmingly undiplomatic move as an act of war. One dose not pull weapons on a diplomatic party, Or in a peaceful place. "


With his well tuned ears from being like many who are genetically engineered where he came from he over heard. Already sitting down he laughed a little "My, my the universe is so uncivilized, throwing the word war around like handkerchief" he said as he sipped his drink that was already at the table one at every seat. When he finished his sip he continued "I'm amazed that people can still use war so lightly considering how dangerous the effects are"

"Obviously there are still those who want war your excellency" Ayame commented.

"Well it only compensates for what they lack, just like all men" Lucy said

"Hey now!" the chairman said silencing them.

Bester just shoot his head and taped on a wrist mounted holo computer, he smugly said as he peered back at them wondering why they where so hostile.

"I do not know why you insist, on showing anger to people who have done nothing to you or your kind, if you continue this undiplomatic behavior we will black list you and put you on our yellow list. Do not tempt me. If we where any other nation we would construed your primitive and alarmingly undiplomatic move as an act of war. One dose not pull weapons on a diplomatic party, Or in a peaceful place. "

He chuckled to him self knowing this might make him look a bit arrogant and a little like an ass but he didn't care at this point, Richard glared at him and shook his head wondering how some one like that could become secretary of state, but he just accepted it. Bester had had enough of "furry nations" harassing the union for no reason it was annoying, and reports of heightened anti furry sentiment with the citizenry of the union where becoming more wide spread. But it was only natural when their country is constantly assailed by them.

"Gentlemen." He fixed his rebreather back into place, the black eyes of the mask suddenly flaring to life into a vivid red. "This is a diplomatic meeting. Please, no dot draw your weapons-" He nodded to Kane. "-and please do not idly toss threats of war around." He nodded to Bester, speaking very collectedly and calmly, but a certain iciness entering his words. "You are acting on behalf of your nation. Think about how you are making your people seem." Bringing such petty squabbles to a summit...

Richard nodded and sighed saying in a quick response to the dominion delegation.

"Indeed, I wonder if there will be any festiveness" He then turned to the dragonan statesperson and said.

"Yes I hope peace will start here, at any rate tell me about your people I am interested in them"

Bester meanwhile had gone off to a corner already standing there and observing the room silently.
"We are steeped in tradition, ruled by myself and 12 or more highlords on the council and hail from the now uninhabitable planet like the templars. What more is there to tell toher than we don't like the cold?" she said casualy " As to festivities, there shall be soon, excuse me" she continued, turning back to the golden representative.

(OOC: Assuming the bodyguards were transported with Ami... and I haven't thought of any gifts for the Empress (yet?), not that there is anything worthy of her time that GR could possibly gift >.<)

Ami, left temporarily breathless and speechless by the hosts' technology, and saddened by the realisation that it was standard technology and that her antiquated spaceship was ancient history by compare, took a while to answer. "I... I'm honoured to make your acquaintance. I'm President Ami Rosewater III of the... humble nation of Golden Rebirth. Many thanks for having me here tonight, I'm sure it will be a great experience to dine with people from many different planets and cultures."

Her words were now coming out in a hurried, nervous stream, accompanied by a cautious smile. Ami was never a good diplomat, but wanted to give it a try anyway. "I apologise for being late... entirely my fault, I'm afraid to say. You must be the... " - she paused briefly to allow her brief research into the party and its host to return to the front of her memory - "Empress Cheng? I must say I'm impressed already with your hospitality, and I haven't even started on the banquet yet. But... enough talking... where would you have and my bodyguards stay for now?"
"You are most welcome here Ami Rosewater, it is an honour. The banquet has already begun really." she poined at the large platers that were drifting around with the entrais "As is you're not too late. So now allow me, in th e tradition of my people give you this gift" she reached up and took one of her necklaces off and gave it to Ami "Now you are truely my guest."

Bester just shoot his head and taped on a wrist mounted holo computer, he smugly said as he peered back at them wondering why they where so hostile.

"I do not know why you insist, on showing anger to people who have done nothing to you or your kind, if you continue this undiplomatic behavior we will black list you and put you on our yellow list. Do not tempt me. If we where any other nation we would construed your primitive and alarmingly undiplomatic move as an act of war. One dose not pull weapons on a diplomatic party, Or in a peaceful place. "

He chuckled to him self knowing this might make him look a bit arrogant and a little like an ass but he didn't care at this point, Richard glared at him and shook his head wondering how some one like that could become secretary of state, but he just accepted it. Bester had had enough of "furry nations" harassing the union for no reason it was annoying, and reports of heightened anti furry sentiment with the citizenry of the union where becoming more wide spread. But it was only natural when their country is constantly assailed by them.

With his well tuned ears from being like many who are genetically engineered where he came from he over heard. Already sitting down he laughed a little "My, my the universe is so uncivilized, throwing the word war around like handkerchief" he said as he sipped his drink that was already at the table one at every seat. When he finished his sip he continued "I'm amazed that people can still use war so lightly considering how dangerous the effects are"

"Obviously there are still those who want war your excellency" Ayame commented.

"Well it only compensates for what they lack, just like all men" Lucy said

"Hey now!" the chairman said silencing them.
ooc: lol

"Gentlemen." He fixed his rebreather back into place, the black eyes of the mask suddenly flaring to life into a vivid red. "This is a diplomatic meeting. Please, no dot draw your weapons-" He nodded to Kane. "-and please do not idly toss threats of war around." He nodded to Bester, speaking very collectedly and calmly, but a certain iciness entering his words. "You are acting on behalf of your nation. Think about how you are making your people seem." Bringing such petty squabbles to a summit...
"My friend here is right" a human in long dress robes said, steping up "Roy Dean Schlip, Minister for human affairs on the council. Anyway, I doubt the empress takes kindly to such disturbances at this, a peaceful meeting. The foods are fine, as is the entertainment so let us be calm, colected and if all aelse fails stay away from each other, m'kay?"

“To be honest, I am. Look at what is going on in the room. What do you see and hear. What can your senses tell you about the people? Go ahead and show me.”

Anthony waged toward the room and pulled up another chair for the young prince to join him in watching the rest act out their little dramas and chest thumping.

“What do you see over there?” Anthony said as he pointed to the mild drama involving the marines and the drawn weapons, "What is your take on the situation?"

[OOC: Apologies for my tardy post (that means 'late', not 'retarded', you cheeky...), but I've been ill for the last couple of days. I did try to magic up a response but my heart just wasn't in it. Indeed, my heart was in the bathroom. Anyway, enough of that.]

The transporter room adorned a markedly different decor to the rest of the aging starship; it had been refit less than five years ago and was virtually indistinguishable to the ones carried aboard refit Constitution-class starships or the new Excelsior-class starships. Much of the walls were coated in deeply textured, radiation-absorbing black material, and the control room was safely enclosed in a transparent booth towards the back wall. The transporter pad itself provided essentially the only illumination in the dull room, with its white platform and the yellow walls behind it both glowing faintly in its present state of dormancy.

"Madam Secretary," the transporter chief called out from his transparent enclosure, after clearing his throat to attract the Andorian woman's attention. "Bridge informs us that you can depart at your leisure, ma'am."

"Thank you Ensign," Chiana nodded, turning back to her two bodyguards, who, rather than uniforms, wore smart black suits decorated with silver trim as was the norm for civilians in positions of authority within the Federation, with the only hint that they were anything but lawyers or executives being the Federation Diplomatic Corps pin that each wore on their right breast. Any weapons they carried were undoubtedly secreted somewhere on their persons, though probably easy to get hold of in a pinch. "So yes, just keep out of the way as I'm sure there will be little cause for concern."

"As you wish Madam Secretary," the senior of the two nodded, before turning to presumably discuss tactics with his subordinate.

Just as Chiana was about to step onto the glossy transporter pad a crewman in a tight-fitting burgundy-and-pear coloured jumpsuit ran into the room and stood to attention ahead of her.

"Ma'am, your identification card," he said, handing it to the woman stiffly.

"Thank you crewman," she nodded, glad that he'd arrived in time. Problems with the replicator had delayed the creation of the badge and, concurrently, her departure to the event. She was planning to leave without it, in the hopes that her hosts would understand the omission and provide her with their own version, when the crewman finally arrived in the transporter room and handed it to her at the last minute. After affixing the item to the top of her thin white blouse she turned to complete her stride onto the pad. As soon as her two bodyguards took up positions on pads either side of her, she nodded towards the control room. "Energise."

***

With a loud, high-pitched whining sound as matter suddenly began displacing air, three columns of blinding white-blue light appeared at the coordinates provided to Achates by the staff of the oddly-named 'Ih8uwannakillu', and gradually Chiana and her two smartly-dressed bodyguards materialised in their place. Chiana and her bodyguards, not members of the military and thus not really accustomed to regular transportation, looked disorientated for a few moments while they adjusted to the new environment they found themselves in. It wasn't long before the Andorian started looking around, taking stock of her surroundings, and apologised for the delay to the first person who found them.

“To be honest, I am. Look at what is going on in the room. What do you see and hear. What can your senses tell you about the people? Go ahead and show me.”

Anthony waged toward the room and pulled up another chair for the young prince to join him in watching the rest act out their little dramas and chest thumping.

“What do you see over there?” Anthony said as he pointed to the mild drama involving the marines and the drawn weapons, "What is your take on the situation?"
"I see three people with weapons drawn and 6 cloaked imperial honour guards with solid slug rifles aimed at their heads. I'd say that those men have some dislike of the Terans and think they would be stupid enough to do something hostile here, where they could be killed instantly and their ship soon afterwards. I also see 3 corpses if they don't hand the weapons over to a butler or something" the child said with a suprising knowledge of weaponry and starships "And food" he said, nodding to the butler behind the guards. "And you?"

[OOC: Apologies for my tardy post (that means 'late', not 'retarded', you cheeky...), but I've been ill for the last couple of days. I did try to magic up a response but my heart just wasn't in it. Indeed, my heart was in the bathroom. Anyway, enough of that.]

The transporter room adorned a markedly different decor to the rest of the aging starship; it had been refit less than five years ago and was virtually indistinguishable to the ones carried aboard refit Constitution-class starships or the new Excelsior-class starships. Much of the walls were coated in deeply textured, radiation-absorbing black material, and the control room was safely enclosed in a transparent booth towards the back wall. The transporter pad itself provided essentially the only illumination in the dull room, with its white platform and the yellow walls behind it both glowing faintly in its present state of dormancy.

"Madam Secretary," the transporter chief called out from his transparent enclosure, after clearing his throat to attract the Andorian woman's attention. "Bridge informs us that you can depart at your leisure, ma'am."

"Thank you Ensign," Chiana nodded, turning back to her two bodyguards, who, rather than uniforms, wore smart black suits decorated with silver trim as was the norm for civilians in positions of authority within the Federation, with the only hint that they were anything but lawyers or executives being the Federation Diplomatic Corps pin that each wore on their right breast. Any weapons they carried were undoubtedly secreted somewhere on their persons, though probably easy to get hold of in a pinch. "So yes, just keep out of the way as I'm sure there will be little cause for concern."

"As you wish Madam Secretary," the senior of the two nodded, before turning to presumably discuss tactics with his subordinate.

Just as Chiana was about to step onto the glossy transporter pad a crewman in a tight-fitting burgundy-and-pear coloured jumpsuit ran into the room and stood to attention ahead of her.

"Ma'am, your identification card," he said, handing it to the woman stiffly.

"Thank you crewman," she nodded, glad that he'd arrived in time. Problems with the replicator had delayed the creation of the badge and, concurrently, her departure to the event. She was planning to leave without it, in the hopes that her hosts would understand the omission and provide her with their own version, when the crewman finally arrived in the transporter room and handed it to her at the last minute. After affixing the item to the top of her thin white blouse she turned to complete her stride onto the pad. As soon as her two bodyguards took up positions on pads either side of her, she nodded towards the control room. "Energise."

***

With a loud, high-pitched whining sound as matter suddenly began displacing air, three columns of blinding white-blue light appeared at the coordinates provided to Achates by the staff of the oddly-named 'Ih8uwannakillu', and gradually Chiana and her two smartly-dressed bodyguards materialised in their place. Chiana and her bodyguards, not members of the military and thus not really accustomed to regular transportation, looked disorientated for a few moments while they adjusted to the new environment they found themselves in. It wasn't long before the Andorian started looking around, taking stock of her surroundings, and apologised for the delay to the first person who found them.
ooc: Aww, *pats*
IC: "Its no problem, really, but could I please get some privacy!" the man snaped, movinmg closer to wall and attached urinal "The banquet's downstairs if your here for that! Theres a maid out side!" he snaped again, going noticably red.

Ami accepted the necklace readily. "Thank you, Empress. I only wish I had something of value to give to you in return."

The party walked into the main room, and were astonished at the variety of cultures and races represented. Dragona, humans, and others... The thought of making contact with all these ambassadors made Ami's head spin. At the same time, she noticed a faint trace of iciness in the atmosphere, and wondered what could possibly introduce one into such a wonderful occasion.

"Ah it is no problem, oh excuse me." she said as a chef walked up to her and whispered into her ear "Oh, Ladys and gentlemen! The first course is about to be served and the first of our entertainment is about to begin! Please, be seated! shall we?" she shouted to the room, causing the cloaked guards to holster thier rifles angain and retreate to the shadows.

(OOC: Just for the record we never actually raised weapons, the Stand down command was to keep the Marines calm, but hey it aded a bit of tension)

"We will happily keep away from them" Admiral Kane said to the surrounding crowd of delegates. "We have no wish for conflict on this ocasion, where we hope to make some new friends, so thank you my 'friend' from the Fedral Union" Hearing the empress calling for them to sit down she waved her paw and the party headed for the table as she passed the Fedral Union representative she smacked her tail off his leg quite forcibly yet it was meade to look like an acident. "Damned Xenophobes"

“Exactly. Although I would hesitate calling them food, you never know where they might have been." Anthony chuckled at the joke making it plain he knew what the child was referring to. "You appear to have received some good training, at least in creative thinking. Very astute.”

Anthony glanced at his little Host. He knew anything he told him might eventually come to the ears of the Empress but he was not worried. Most of what he was to reveal was either public knowledge or rumors circulating about the Ta’Nar

“The cloaks are pretty good and I doubt anyone else in the room knows they are there. We perceive energy patterns and the electromagnetic field gives them away as if they had a spotlight on them.”

Anthony pointed to another part of the room where guests were.

“What do you see from over there where…”

Anthony was interrupted by the announcement that dinner was about to start.

“We can talk later if you wish. We better go or the food will get cold.”

"Hardly, the main course is, for the most part, salad" the child said "And as for the training thing, genetic memory helps"

Cheng had, by now, taken her seat on the throne again motioned for Ami and Sancticus to sit on the seats beside her and making sure the children were well away from the main part of the floor as the waiters and waitresses drifted in to see what everyone was ordering and several women in carved golden armor walked thurgh the main doors, a variety of swords, sheilds and other close ranged equipment in bundles beneath thier arms.

IC: "Its no problem, really, but could I please get some privacy!" the man snaped, movinmg closer to wall and attached urinal "The banquet's downstairs if your here for that! Theres a maid out side!" he snaped again, going noticably red.

Why is it that whenever I use a transporter the coordinates are always embarrassingly wrong? Chiana thought to herself, inwardly scorning the transporter operator on the Achates whom she tended to assume had done so deliberately on the orders of Captain Unis as some sort of practical joke.

"Apologies, thank you," Chiana nodded to the cross-legged gentleman, quickly hurrying herself and her bodyguards out of the room. "It's going well so far, hmm?"

"I wish we could have stayed in there for a few minutes," one of the bodyguards muttered to the other, glancing downwards knowingly as the Secretary of State followed their unwitting greeter's directions and proceeded down the stairs.

"Oh, hello. More for the Banquet eh?" the maid said in a decidedly olde-english-pesant accent "You're late you are. I dunno, you foreighners, showin up at all hours" she started to mutter to her self, aparently forgeting the 'foreighners' were still there "Well, come on then she said, leading the group to the hall and ariving just after the armoured women "Ooo, you're in luck, they're just getting seated, you might just blend right in" she bustled off them, shaking her head and still mumbling to herself.

Richard sighed as he looked over to Bester shaking his head at what happened but said nothing. He looked over to the host nations leader and smiled bowing a bit.

"Well I'd like to to put out an offer of a non aggression pact on the table, and a trade deal ma'am."

He said this just as the announcement for dinner was made, He chose a seating arrangement closest to the host along with Bester who after careful consideration decided to sit close to the group of wolfholdians , starting to speaking with them.

"Now that, that's out of the way, we in the Terran Federation would like to know about your people, In order to improve understanding and prevent conflict."

Bester gave a slight diplomatic grin his eyes looking over the delegate.

As the food began to be served the delegation stayed seated "Well my mother always said to try new things, in new places" but before he even started his food and even though others have he grabbed his glass and stood up "Excuse me every one, sorry for interrupting any conversations but I'd like to propose a toast, A toast to the empress who has graciously invited us all here, and a Toast to peace though out the galaxy!" he said finishing the toast and taking a sip of his drink.

"By the way, I'm curious to know just where in the galaxy every one is from, I'm sure we have all come a long way, and I'm sure it is not just for the food, I believe we are also here for trade, diplomacy and so on, and each of us have things to offer, for example we have highly advanced medical technology" Christina interjected, being the head diplomat other then the chairman she had to speak about what was on there minds.

"A most exelent toast!" Cheng said, standing too as she siped a small cup of warm Sake infront of her and bowed briefly to the delegates from spit break. "But if I may I would say my own. Let us toast to a new future for the galaxys and their inhabitants, to those who are here to enjoy such fine company and those who sadly are not. Lastly let us toast to peace and the unity it brings. Atra esterni ono thelduin" she finished her toast and drank once more from her cup before sitting again. Once she had all the dragona-imperial citizens looked at her while she took a forkful of her starter and ate it. When she finished she said in a clear voice that carrierd along the entire table "Iif gauhnith!" at which point they started to eat a variety of soups and meat based foods, only a few eating salads.

Finding this trip more and more odd as the minutes passed by, Chiana nodded to the strangely out-of-place maid and explained their tardiness before promptly entering the extravagant banquet hall and taking her seat. As per their orders aboard Achates, her two bodyguards made an attempt to 'disappear' into the surroundings; enough to remain inconspicuous and inoffensive but ne'er far enough away to place her in any danger - not that they anticipated such, given that they had all missed the earlier rivalries.

Chiana glanced over the food and drink that lay before her curiously, placing the bottle of vintage Château de Jaeih, originally intended for whichever dignitaries were meant to greet them, on the table beside her plate until she had a chance to offer it properly. While the other visitors continued to converse with each other, obviously having been acquainted by now, she took the time to examine her surroundings and those beings who shared them with her. It was always her belief that speaking through ignorance was an excellent way to make a fool of oneself, and she had no desire to do such a thing, so she often spent much of her time on diplomatic events such as this gathering information rather than offering it around herself. While she recognised some of the names of nations and dignitaries being bandied around, most of the faces she could see were - literally - alien to her.

For the time being she continued to observe and listen, twitching her antennae around as she took in what information she could, while raising her glass to both toasts and letting out a dulled "hear, hear!" after each.

Ami happily sat next to the Empress. This is going really well, she thought; nobody's even mentioned the hunk of junk I arrived in yet.

Being no fan of salads, Ami happily went with one of the soups, and demolished it as if she hadn't eaten in weeks, cautiously looking around her to see if anyone was taking offence to her slight lack of etiquette.

At the same time, she replied to one of the ambassadors. "I come from the planet Earth. It's probably a quaint little planet by your standards, but we get by. Nice weather in our part of it during the summer. We... uh... don't really have any specialties, in fact we're a pretty disappointing nation, which you may have gathered from our means of transport, but I was hoping that by attending this banquet I might be able to find some purpose on the international field for it..."

"Earth huh? from my experience it would almost seem 'earth' is the only word that most cultures in the galaxy share, it's a common word used for home, even where we are from we have a 'earth' which is the place of our ancestors" Christina said in response. The chairman, always being a free thinker decided to speak his mind on the topic of earth "The fact that so many humanoid cultures have 'earth' in there language referring to a home, it makes you wonder if long ago all our peoples lived on one single 'earth' and if so what happened to it? and where is it now?" he said aloud to the group.

Ami happily sat next to the Empress. This is going really well, she thought; nobody's even mentioned the hunk of junk I arrived in yet.

Being no fan of salads, Ami happily went with one of the soups, and demolished it as if she hadn't eaten in weeks, cautiously looking around her to see if anyone was taking offence to her slight lack of etiquette.

At the same time, she replied to one of the ambassadors. "I come from the planet Earth. It's probably a quaint little planet by your standards, but we get by. Nice weather in our part of it during the summer. We... uh... don't really have any specialties, in fact we're a pretty disappointing nation, which you may have gathered from our means of transport, but I was hoping that by attending this banquet I might be able to find some purpose on the international field for it..."
"Yes, I was told of that, neuro-trancivers are quite useful." Cheng said, turning to face her after eating a few spoonfulls of chicken soup "If you don't mind me saying so it amused most of trafic-controle for several minuits. I think perhapse we could help you with that, perhapse an alliance or economic treaty or something of the like. I've reviewed what our dossier has on you, I understand your econamy has, for all intents and purposes, collapsed."

As she stoped talking and had some more of her soup the women with their armor shining and their weapons seat about the cleared floor picked up 2 curved swords each and turned to face the table, bowed briefly and then turned to face each other. They then bowed again and entered combat stances, waiting for chang to give the order for them to start.

The words of the female ambassador (OOC: Christina) intrigued Ami. She had never thought that there would be more than one planet named Earth, and felt somewhat foolish for assuming so much. How much had her race been missing out on? If Random Kingdom had never fallen, would the entire nation be part of the wonderful experience that she was only receiving her first taste of - the rest of the universe?

Before she could respond, the Empress Cheng spoke.

Ami nodded her head in approval to the Empress's words. "I would certainly welcome some form of diplomatic transaction, especially with the state the nation is in at the moment... which is my fault, I guess. I'm supposed to be able to make the entire nation work with only a few advisors to consult, to tell over 700 million people how to live their lives and where to go and... I'm not really cut out for that sort of thing, but the people seem to worship the ground I walk on because I'm the grand-daughter of the first President of the nation that actually cared about the place or something like that. I'd run elections but the only people I'd run against would be those whose policies would make the country an even worse place to live."

She wasn't sure why she had changed subject to her own personal struggles with absolute power, and nearly instantly regretted it. Maybe it was time to relinquish her hold on power... but not to the public. The public, despite their blind adoration for her, had no more of an idea what they wanted than she did. So who could she give it to? Or what?

"Now that, that's out of the way, we in the Terran Federation would like to know about your people, In order to improve understanding and prevent conflict."

Bester gave a slight diplomatic grin his eyes looking over the delegate.

"Oh hello....yes avoiding conflict is somthing we must do. However you must understand that considering your hostility towards anthromorphic nations, you can hardly blame us for being hostile in return" Admiral Kane had turned to the Fedral Union delegate. "Don't take my marines acrions personally, they just plain don't like you" As she finsished speaking she took a few sips of the soup.

"By the way, I'm curious to know just where in the galaxy every one is from, I'm sure we have all come a long way, and I'm sure it is not just for the food, I believe we are also here for trade, diplomacy and so on, and each of us have things to offer, for example we have highly advanced medical technology"
"The Templars propably have the best weapons of mass genocide here. Sad, but true. The good Emperess would probably be able to back me up on that claim, am I right ma'am?" He raised his glass and grinned. "That said, we also do a nice number in war machines, walkers and the like. We're a very warlike people."

"I would certainly welcome some form of diplomatic transaction, especially with the state the nation is in at the moment... which is my fault, I guess. I'm supposed to be able to make the entire nation work with only a few advisors to consult, to tell over 700 million people how to live their lives and where to go and... I'm not really cut out for that sort of thing, but the people seem to worship the ground I walk on because I'm the grand-daughter of the first President of the nation that actually cared about the place or something like that. I'd run elections but the only people I'd run against would be those whose policies would make the country an even worse place to live."

"The greater good is oft the lesser evil. You seem to actually care for your people, which is a quality oddly lacking in many leaders I've met, served under or fought. I'm sure you will come into your stride soon. If you're new to the universe, you couldn't have picked a better place to come, really. Welcome, for what good it'll do you in this universe, from the Void. I'm sure the Emperor would approve of diplomatic ties and some aid for your nation."

Before she could respond, the Empress Cheng spoke.

Ami nodded her head in approval to the Empress's words. "I would certainly welcome some form of diplomatic transaction, especially with the state the nation is in at the moment... which is my fault, I guess. I'm supposed to be able to make the entire nation work with only a few advisors to consult, to tell over 700 million people how to live their lives and where to go and... I'm not really cut out for that sort of thing, but the people seem to worship the ground I walk on because I'm the grand-daughter of the first President of the nation that actually cared about the place or something like that. I'd run elections but the only people I'd run against would be those whose policies would make the country an even worse place to live."

She wasn't sure why she had changed subject to her own personal struggles with absolute power, and nearly instantly regretted it. Maybe it was time to relinquish her hold on power... but not to the public. The public, despite their blind adoration for her, had no more of an idea what they wanted than she did. So who could she give it to? Or what?
"Well I rule over over 4 billion people with acouncil of about 20 members, and you think 700 million is hard? Well I get my help from my bloodline like you do, but mine has never been broken. My ancesters are decended from Eragon and Saphire themselves, seeing how most of the empire is almost entirely Spiritualist they just don't want us out. Then theres the inquisition..." She trailed off before noticing the stances of the women she shouted "Pah'uh" and they started to fight with their dulled blades, preforming elegant flips, parreys and jabs.

Bester responded to the wolfholdian delegate.

"We have no hostility towards anthromorphic nations, the one we are at war with just poisoned their own people in an attempt to prevent our occupation of them. This entire war started because they declared war on us first and we responded"


He started to ingest what ever was put in front of him, his eyes still locked on the other delegate in a diplomatic manner, Richard mean while had sat back and ceased to try to propose the nap Until later he folded his hands in front of him and sighed.

The words of the female ambassador (OOC: Christina) intrigued Ami. She had never thought that there would be more than one planet named Earth, and felt somewhat foolish for assuming so much. How much had her race been missing out on? If Random Kingdom had never fallen, would the entire nation be part of the wonderful experience that she was only receiving her first taste of - the rest of the universe?

Before she could respond, the Empress Cheng spoke.

Ami nodded her head in approval to the Empress's words. "I would certainly welcome some form of diplomatic transaction, especially with the state the nation is in at the moment... which is my fault, I guess. I'm supposed to be able to make the entire nation work with only a few advisors to consult, to tell over 700 million people how to live their lives and where to go and... I'm not really cut out for that sort of thing, but the people seem to worship the ground I walk on because I'm the grand-daughter of the first President of the nation that actually cared about the place or something like that. I'd run elections but the only people I'd run against would be those whose policies would make the country an even worse place to live."

She wasn't sure why she had changed subject to her own personal struggles with absolute power, and nearly instantly regretted it. Maybe it was time to relinquish her hold on power... but not to the public. The public, despite their blind adoration for her, had no more of an idea what they wanted than she did. So who could she give it to? Or what?

"There are many fledgling nations aren't there? If you and your delegation can agree, my nation would love to open diplomatic and trade ties, while there might be little you could offer at the moment, once your planet stabilize we would start seeing benefits on our side as well" The chairman said before continuing to eat. It was for the most part the policy of his political party to help others if possible as long as national security was not in danger.

"Tell me, Bester, what did they do to warrent invasion? I doubt any people would willing to sit back and let their foes steal their lands." cheng said in a mildly interested tone "Ba'uh!" she shouted as one of the warriers landed a prticulaly good blow against anothers shield, cleaving it in half, and would have killed her foe if the blade wasn't protected. Cheng claped as the woman hobbled off, smilling as she threw a few 100-denarii- bills at her.

"There are many fledgling nations aren't there? If you and your delegation can agree, my nation would love to open diplomatic and trade ties, while there might be little you could offer at the moment, once your planet stabilize we would start seeing benefits on our side as well" The chairman said before continuing to eat. It was for the most part the policy of his political party to help others if possible as long as national security was not in danger.

"I was thinking something along those lines, but hadn't really thaught of what they could offer us. Our computer software issome of the best in the galaxy thoe, our private secter is dominated by it. Corporate rivalry helps. I could have an agreement done within moments if you'd like, but perhapse we should wait a while, atleast untill the first entertainment is over."
She winced as an audiable crunch came from the left arm of a human who had been corned by 2 of her oponents and a small medical drone hovered thrugh the main doorsppulled here away. It was ten that she noticed the only people to actualy have bothered with their ID badges.
"Oh hello, I don't think I met you before did I?" she said, addressing the andorian in a pleasent voice.

"I was thinking something along those lines, but hadn't really thaught of what they could offer us. Our computer software issome of the best in the galaxy thoe, our private secter is dominated by it. Corporate rivalry helps. I could have an agreement done within moments if you'd like, but perhapse we should wait a while, atleast untill the first entertainment is over."
She winced as an audiable crunch came from the left arm of a human who had been corned by 2 of her oponents and a small medical drone hovered thrugh the main doorsppulled here away. It was ten that she noticed the only people to actualy have bothered with their ID badges.
"Oh hello, I don't think I met you before did I?" she said, addressing the andorian in a pleasent voice.

"Sometimes the benefit doesn't have to direct, for example in our territory is a planet called Kar'lon, a rich tropical planet that is a extremely popular tropical destination for vacations with resorts covering many of the hundreds of islands that cover that planet. New relations with other cultures means possibly more people coming to places like Kar'lon, spending, and putting funding into our economy" The chairman said in response to the comments of the empress. The conversation was finally turning into something that could prove beneficial.

Bester said for the fifth time his eyes focusing on the female with a polit smile over his pale face.

“They declared war on us for no reason..”

As soon as he said this one of the secret agents disappeared in a flash of white light., the one sitting next to Bester. Bester raised an eyebrow and muttered under his voice.

“what the hell..”

As soon as he said those words a flash of red and orange crackling light appeared in the form of some thing that seemed not human. For an instant it remained an unrecognizable shape until the light dissipated, leaving behind an ash colored, semi armored thing. It wasn’t human, on the outside at least. Bester raised a hand and before he could speak the being said.

“Don’t worry” In a dark echoing voice .

“Im here to replace one of your security details from space force one”

a sinister look came over his dark ashed face, his various fangs being displayed as he grinned peeling back his cheeks. He looked around and nodded to the psi cop, he had established communications with him right away telepathically.

The being was called an Arch-human a genetically engineered solder cloned from demon and human DNA being mixed, having the consciousness of a human demon hybrid. His eyes flickered with slight yellowish energy as he scanned every thing and every one. Next to him a steel box had appeared, he picked it up with his claw hands and presented it to the host of the function. The remnants of a dying demonic nation that had changed their ways had recently join the federation after a ship crashed there.


The Terrans Could not survive in the environment to long, their supplies had dwindled and the ship’s hull was comprised, finally they found the demonic like beings who where also dying out due lack of new breeding. Using their knowledge in genetics coupled with the demons powers and enhanced telepathic abilities they where able to combine with them.

The crew was born a knew, ad a new race was born, recent studies and cloning of this race have bread a massive super solder program, abilities of these new solders far out weighed the cost of mass breeding them. While they where a totally new species , they where also human. And Joined the Terran Federation rather than forming their own nation. The demon human soul’s coupled with recent cybernetic enhancements of some of the solders bred makes them a formidable and extremely powerful foe.

“Sorry for my sudden arrival, here is a gift from the Federation.”

He said this in a dark yet seemingly friendly tone. A Distinct smell of fresh ash went any where he did. He of course had the ability to take on half the people in this room single-handedly with his various powers , telekinetic blasts, telekinetic shielding just like the psi cop, but all greatly enhanced, of course there was good old ripping through flesh with your flaming hands approach, he also had the ability to use pryo-kentick blast to engulf people in plasma flames.

Of course he was there just for security reasons, and not to attack any one. His form was large, he was six foot five, his presence sinister as people could feel a darkness in the room even if they were not sensitive to it.

( http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d110/USFU/Super%20Solders/monster_archvile.jpg :P yes from doom but their human telepath /demon hybrids not just demons. He’s warring Federation issued powered armor )

ooc: 0_0 For a moment there I got jumpy.
IC: "Err, thank you?" she said, heart still beating twice as fast from the initial suprise "A bit unesecery but my thanks non-the-le- LOOK OUT!" the half-daemon, it seemed, had materialized on the wrong side of the table and had narrowly avoided a spear thrust that had missed its target "Y-you should probably come round THIS side. Y'noh spare my beating heart, I doubt it can take much more coupled with the background exitement of the whole thing. Right then." she cleared a space large enough for the box infront of her and opened the lid.
OOC2: That'll lear ya :P

bump

The demon bowed, in the box was a small clear cube that fluctuated with various colors, dark light, middle, it was an emotion cube, sort of like a hyper advanced mood ring of sorts. Richard chuckled as the demon sat down his eyes looking over the other delegates. Richard said to the host.

"That is a mood cube it changes with the mood of the people around it, it can also make music if you press the right sequances"

He pointed out the few little holographic buttons on the side of the cube.

"Really?" Cheng said, intrieged as she held the cube up and looking into its heart with her clear eye "it's phi-tech I assume?" she said in the same tone before lowering it as a sword flew over her head and embeded its self in the wall "Perhapse this entertainment is a little too wild?" she said over the rising noise of the mass brawl that was now ensueing on the main floor.

"That is quite the interesting device, how ever on a technical level I wonder, I mean somethings that look complicated are actually rather simple, take the human mind for example, for some people it's extremely complex but for a person who is say a Giglomaniac who can understand the mind much more then most can" the chairman commented. The chairman's educational background gave him extensive backgrounds on things such as genetics and neurology. Having a PhD he could easily explain science terms other might not know in some fields such as Giglomaniacs.

OOC: I'm assuming you mean you have a PHD?... Smarty-pants XP
IC: "Indeed, look at phi-breeds. Thay get their abilitys because of a symbiote that enhances their powers of perception, allowing them to handle more of their mind being active. The proces is simple but looks quite impressive." she said to the chairman as the cube went a slight tinge of red and she placed it by her nearly empty soup bowle*

OOC2: *gargh! I've forgoten how to spell it!!!

"I would certainly look forward to opening diplomatic concourse with any of the nations represented here today," Ami responded, "but you'll have to bear with us, we've been mostly isolationist until now, excepting a few minor trade deals (OOC: none with any actual nations so far), and thus haven't had the chance to perfect the art."

(OOC: Same IRL. I never really got into the positive side of diplomacy, just getting creamed repeatedly in war)

--

Ami, lacking much new to say, returned to her previous subject of national rule. "Anyway, I ordered an archæology team to search the ruins of the old Random Kingdom - our predecessor nation - capital to see if there was any technology we could put to good use - one of the reasons we're so technologically backwards is because a lot of that technology was lost to us after RK fell - and their latest finding was some form of central computer system inside the city core. They tell me that it may have even been used as a central management AI for the entire nation, with humans relegated to symbolic control over government. I'm currently waiting for more developments, they'll need to figure out how to transport the system to a new location and operate it, but the idea of a supervised AI taking over micromanagement of the nation sounds appealing to me, and may even help the nation's current problem with poor economic planning. Of course, there would be severe dangers, but as long as the computer is regularly checked for errors I'd say it sounds like a good idea. Anyone here have any experience with this sort of thing?"

The demon just smiled his fangs glinting with saliva as he sat down next to bester, who by the way was still confused on why they had sent him to replace his agent. But not questioning it he went back to eating and waiting for the wolf holds reply. Richard stood up and smiled holding out a hand to bester who raised an eyebrow. Ricard quickly said.

"I have just gotten word from the front Bester, victory is ours, the enemy has been totally and utterly routed"

Bester took the hand and shook it firmly and smiled, the demon just chuckled his black eyes peering at the two men and then back at the host, he started to shift a bit in his chair.

OOC: me a PHD? lol I wish, as for your spelling, if you had not noticed the forums have spell check, any word underlined in red is wrong lol

"Indeed it is impressive in it's own little way, and it doubles as something decorative if you have to use for its actual purpose, kinda like a lot of things in this universe it's a multitasking item, since its a cube light shines every direction from it, makes for a good light in a dark room I would think" he said while thinking of the possible uses of such a device aside from what it is suppose to do.

post coming soon guys, curse you RL!!!!

It was ten that she noticed the only people to actualy have bothered with their ID badges.
"Oh hello, I don't think I met you before did I?" she said, addressing the andorian in a pleasent voice.

Chiana was still grumbling to herself over the fuss they had made accommodating their host's wishes, only to find themselves amongst the few who had actually bothered to do so. It was ironic that said badge was the reason for her chaotic entry to the event, and the subsequent disorientation. To make matters worse, the Diplomatic Corps had provided her with a briefing on all attendees, but had failed to provide photographs of them, making identification difficult at best.

Having sat listening intently she had identified a few from their conversations; particularly the delegates of the Terran Federation, whose bluster about being peaceful caused her to smile inwardly and shake her head. As she casually eavesdropped on various nearby conversations with her rather impeccable hearing, she almost didn't notice the voice nearby.

"Ah," Chiana nodded respectfully, almost startled at being addressed. "No, there was some mix-up in our entrance I believe. I am Xev Chiana, Secretary of State for the United Federation of Interstellar Planets - that is, a federal republic consisting of various alien species several thousand lightyears from here."

She looked away briefly as her hands found the slender bottle and lifted it across the table to display it. Within the curved glass, labeled "Château de Jaeih - 259 A.F." in both English and Romulan, was a liquid not dissimilar to red wine, though it was thinner in consistency and had a rather vivid blue tinge to it.

"You will have to forgive my ignorance, but my briefing was sorely absent of imagery... your majesty," Chiana said knowingly. "However, if I am correct you must be Empress Cheng. And so, on behalf of the people of the Federation I humbly present to you a small gift; it is not an ancient weapon, nor some exotic technology, but merely a gesture of goodwill and a reminder of that which we all have in common, no matter the species - a tendency to indulge in a... tipple, on occasion."

She placed the bottle unceremoniously beside the Empress, and shrugged.

"I had planned a much more grandiose presentation but, in the confusion, I must have misplaced my notes," she explained with an exhausted smile. "Just try not to drink it all in one go, at least... not in good company."

Cheng chuckled as she examined the bottle "I think the dragona induldge in a little tipple a few times too many" before noticing the last of the warriers had falled thanks a well placed blow with the haft of a spear "Ouch" she said, wincing before shouting "Ba'uh, bah'uh!" and clapped politly to the remaining warrier as she was lead away by an oversized man with oversized muscles and an oversized briefcase full of money.

The musicians, who had the netire time been sat quietly tuning their instruments again, now resumed playing a modern song on electric guitars and drumkits.
OOC: Thank you interstell, you may well hjave saved the thread.
@Spit break. No i didn't know they had spell check... Thanks.

-SNIP-
Sancticus shuddered at the mention of AI.
"The Void had a central AI control system some 200 years ago. Went by the moniker of MIIS, Machine Intelligence/Idiot Savant. We started it with control of a small asteroid mining operation. After a while, profits had tripled hundredfold, so we started to move it. Unfortunately, it left behind traces of itself in each of the computers it was activated on, until we eventually moved it shipyard. It took control of all it's old posts simultainiously, and started to retrofit all of the ships in the drydocks. Within a week, it had got itself a sizeable fleet, and took out one of our colonies. Naval Command sent a fleet after it, but that failed miserably and it ended up hijacking the ships we sent. It took out a couple more colonies before we uploaded a virus into the mainframe of the ship's computers and they shot each other to hell. So, I don't really trust AI's anymore. We use cyborgs now, at least then you can shoot them if they pull anything. After that, we were devastated for a while, which led to us bringing in an emperor named-" He tapped a Kalist eye pendant through his armor here, "Torquemada, who proceeded to go on a genocidal rampage, mostly against the Dragonan's I'm sorry to say."

"Oh yes. How my great-grand farther hated him, especialy that nasty incident on Ragnor 3, I belive the water is still iradiated... What was it that happened to him again?" Cheng said, switching conversations again as several waiters walked in with huge plates full of intricatly prepaired meat dishes and, for the vegetarians, meat subsitutes "Thank you" she said as one swaped her empty soup bowl for a large and intricatly presented chicken without bones and a sizeable amount of gravy and other meats placed around it.

"Oh yes. How my great-grand farther hated him, especialy that nasty incident on Ragnor 3, I belive the water is still iradiated... What was it that happened to him again?" Cheng said, switching conversations again as several waiters walked in with huge plates full of intricatly prepaired meat dishes and, for the vegetarians, meat subsitutes "Thank you" she said as one swaped her empty soup bowl for a large and intricatly presented chicken without bones and a sizeable amount of gravy and other meats placed around it.

"Emperor Date Dexylosal led a rebellion agaisnt him, his flagship was shot down over Tartarus. A fitting place for such a monster to die. There are those who still follow his teachings, and we've uncovered numerous shrines to him all over the place as some kind of god. This is of course punished with even more vigour than that usual heresy."

"Understandably, it is most trubbling when a cult forms with a completly mad emporer as its god." she said, cutting a piece of chicken and eating it in a single bite, showing the power in her jaws and natural efficency of her teeth for meat.

"So...." Richard said leaning back on the chair he was sitting in then starting to speak again after a momentary pause.

"Tell me more about your people and culture and what they think of us terrans?"

"If I may be so bold to say" the chairman said when AI came up into the conversation "AI are just what it says they are, a artificial intelligence, it thinks and feels for it self, while it might not have the emotions of us living creatures, that doesn't make them something we can use as slaves, for example where I come from our military ships have AI, as do AI walk around in the streets, they have the same rights as every one else, and are treated like every one else, crimes against them are also treated the same, Our way of thinking has been if we treat them well, they will show us the same, and we have never had a AI go against us, in fact while it may seem extremely weird, even to me there have been cases of romance between people and AI's, heck a human and a AI could have a child, you might wonder how its possible but it is" the chairman said in between bites of food. Ayame laughed a little bit after the chairman talked "It's amazing the level of freedom in our society compared to some others in this galaxy"

"Indeed it is, Ayame, sometimes that freedom does cause problems though, but we can solve those problems usually" commented Kyle as he listened in on the conversation.

"If I may be so bold to say" the chairman said when AI came up into the conversation "AI are just what it says they are, a artificial intelligence, it thinks and feels for it self, while it might not have the emotions of us living creatures, that doesn't make them something we can use as slaves, for example where I come from our military ships have AI, as do AI walk around in the streets, they have the same rights as every one else, and are treated like every one else, crimes against them are also treated the same, Our way of thinking has been if we treat them well, they will show us the same, and we have never had a AI go against us, in fact while it may seem extremely weird, even to me there have been cases of romance between people and AI's, heck a human and a AI could have a child, you might wonder how its possible but it is" the chairman said in between bites of food. Ayame laughed a little bit after the chairman talked "It's amazing the level of freedom in our society compared to some others in this galaxy"

"Indeed it is, Ayame, sometimes that freedom does cause problems though, but we can solve those problems usually" commented Kyle as he listened in on the conversation.



Bester laughed a bit and responded as he heard the conversation.

"That's nothing new to the federation... giving biological bodies to AI's have been the norm for over 300 years, so tell me more about your culture"

he said this placing his hands on the table and folding them.

Bester laughed a bit and responded as he heard the conversation.

"That's nothing new to the federation... giving biological bodies to AI's have been the norm for over 300 years, so tell me more about your culture"

he said this placing his hands on the table and folding them.

"Our culture is rather different to say the least, due to many events that have shaped our history. Every thing from the Earth Exodus, to the evacuation of our home world of Empyion, which we didn't reclaim for twenty years. While humans are the main species there are other humanoids in our society, Lucy here for example is Elfen, a cousin species to humans created during a dark part of our history when a group of scientists went rouge and broke almost every genetics law we have, this lead to the Elfen and two other species being introduced into our society after it was exposed, Among normal humans its split between those who are genetically engineered and those who aren't, even the AI population has developed there own way, each group has there own religious views, festivals, and so on, for example the Elfen guardian deity is named Lucy and was the first Elfen that could reproduce sexually, making her the saviour of the first generation Elfen, making her name very popular and common among the Elfen, which its almost entirely female, we haven't figured out why yet but male Elfen have a one in ten thousand chance of being born" he responded to the question about there culture, though he felt he didn't really answer properly.

Snip

"That would never happen in the Void. After the MIIS incident, AI's have banned in all Templarian sectors. Even owning research on them or parts of one can be anything from misconduct to disturbing the peace to treason. We don't like to take chances. In the Void, freedom given tends to be repayed with the point of a knife into the back."

"Mmmm, we find that too, but we do ry to give the people as much freedom as posable, if only sometimes to keep them happy"

"Mmmm, we find that too, but we do ry to give the people as much freedom as posable, if only sometimes to keep them happy"

"Happiness is an abstract concept. Give them food, shelter, work and pride in who they are, and people will follow you anywhere, provided they realise thats all they need."

"Well thats the thing. Spiritualism teaches that life is sacred, whether they view their life as important isn't what i'm saying. Happynes is truly strange concept but we do what we can to let the people 'find their own happy'"

"Either way," interjected Anthony, "it is all just manipulation of your people for your own purposes. It does not matter if you sugarcoat it, the truth is still the truth and cannot be denied."

Anthony set down his wineglass still full.

"In Balrogga, we are all of the same mind when it comes to the decisions."

Anthony knew this statement would lead to the wondering what he meant. He was not about to let them know the Warlord was an Archon, a living avatar of the entire Ta'Nar people or they shared a group consciousness. He would let them guess or seek out rumors, it kept things interesting this way.

"Sounds almost like a collective consciousness, is that due to the those who dont agree disappearing? or more or less control of ones population?" Christina asked as she watched as each and every other person talked to the group as a whole. The chairman then interjected on the issue of spirituality and happiness "While the concept of happiness may be abstract, it is a abstract thought that makes us who we are, and as long as it doesn't harm others a person should be able to find there happiness, whether it is spiritual, emotion, physical, or material happiness, I for one am a follower of one of our territories larger religious teachings which places emphasis on this life, compared to others which focus on the after life"

"Preparing for a afterlife is a bit foolish as death comes unexpectedly" Lucy commented.

"Again this fact is true" Cheng said, swalowing a pice of duck "But foolish or not, it is done. If foolish actions we're not preformed, would we have a word to describe them? Anyway, there are entire cults dedicated to things like that. There is a spiritualist cult that 'worships' Deces, the ancester who brings death. Thats a represntation of him over there fighting Sha'ur and loosing badly." she pointed ot the statue in the corner of the room where the 2 dragons faught
"His worshipers walk temples that are as good as morgs, constantly pray for the, and I quote, 'sweet embrace of death and the calm she brings. For she is the daughter of the dark one.' All very gloomy really. But they actualy came up with suicide tactics. The mere thaught of it is a spiritualist taboo and, as most of the empire is spiritualist, we'd never considered it. If there are any who can prepair themselves for death my dear, it is they, after all, how many people can you say will laugh as they overload their ships reacters. How many can you name who would happily head but a wall untill it caved in, just to allow Deces' agents to claim them." She paused for a moment, stairing intently at a Hun'ja beetle as it tried to scurry out of the deep pot it was in then ate it, saying " Where is that next piece of entertainment, they should have been here instantly."

Richard sat back and sighed looking around the place a bit more, meanwhile bester picked this time to ask a question.

Bester asked in a genuinely curious voice to cheng, his eyes looking over her and the dragon like beings in the area.

"What are your mating practices like I mean your a different sort of being you guys I'm curious on how that works"

Richard slapped his forehead with a sigh, he thought how stupid and inappropriate that question was. Bester Hadn't had any second thoughts about asking that. Even as Richard was glaring at him.

Bester lisped -wha?- Richard just shook his head and then smiled at any one who turned to look at him.

"My, my such a curious mind, it's like that of a child" Christina said with a bit of a laugh as she took a sip of her drink "For the most part said practices are just like any other human species, only exception to that rule is the Elfen. As I previously said, Elfen children are rarely ever male and I'm sure the thought crossed you minds how there able to survive like that. Fact is that with the exception of the guardian deity Lucy and her decedents for the most part, all Elfen procreate by altering the genetics of others. You see if a person comes in contact and is physically touched by a Elfens powers the DNA of the sex cells change causing dominant genes of the Elfen to become active leading to a Elfen child every single time, why Lucy here could infect you all in a matter of seconds without you knowing until the kid is born, then at the age of 3 the child's powers will develop and unless shown before hand how to control said power the child would then ki......" the chairman was then cut off as he was absorbed by his love for genetics.

"Chairman that's enough, you going into to much detail about my people"

"My apologies, but compared to say the Humans, Demons, Gods, AI, or Celestial Knights your species is different on that subject"

"Still sir, another word about my people and your next child will be the next generation Elfen, oh and how it would be a tragedy when it comes of age"

"I get the point, I'll let you say any more words about your species"

"Thank you, especially since you use the name of our Guardian lightly"

Bester shrugged, and responded with a slight chuckle.

"How bad could it be? its interesting to say the least but surely it wouldn't be that bad to experience"

Richard was just dumbfounded by bester, and the entire line of questioning and answers that followed, he was getting ready to distance him self from Bester. Bester just sat there a smile over his pale smooth face.

The Demon hybird just shook his head, the psi cop shrugged and another agent was peering at some thing hot out of the window. to say the least this was a really odd party. Alarming as well.

Richard sat back and sighed looking around the place a bit more, meanwhile bester picked this time to ask a question.

Bester asked in a genuinely curious voice to cheng, his eyes looking over her and the dragon like beings in the area.

"What are your mating practices like I mean your a different sort of being you guys I'm curious on how that works"

Richard slapped his forehead with a sigh, he thought how stupid and inappropriate that question was. Bester Hadn't had any second thoughts about asking that. Even as Richard was glaring at him.

Bester lisped -wha?- Richard just shook his head and then smiled at any one who turned to look at him.

Cheng looked back at Bester with genuine suprise one her face before saying
"Well, my curious little child" she grinned, revealing rows of white teeth "Seeing how you asked so casualy you deserve to be told, just to save you the embasrisment. Our organs are on the inside, even those of the male. (If you've ever seen sea animals mate on the documenteries then you'll have some idea of how intercourse happens.) We mate in the same way as any other species apart from that.

We do not birth live young, we lay eggs that are formed of a crystaline substance we call Kertan. They hatch after a month because of the 3 month incubation period inside the mother. Upon birth we look just like baby dragons but rapidly grow to the size and shape of my young over there. They stay that size untill the age of 6 where they grow at a normal rate."

"Whether it is bad or not is not the issue, its more or less cultural sensitivity, you see by technical definition these three guards of ours were in a way mistakes, they were created by a rouge group of scientists, which violated our genetics laws which did not allow the creation of any life for ill intents, to say the least many of them got what was coming to them when most of those scientists were killed by the first Generation Elfen and Demons, and because of us discovering it all, our population increased by about a quarter of a million" Christina said as the chairman kept quiet about the issue.

Bester just sat there a smile over his pale smooth face.

Sancticus chuckled and leaned over to Richard, whispering "Is your friend there all... well, there?"

"What are your mating practices like I mean your a different sort of being you guys I'm curious on how that works"
"Well, we're human, so I suppose you already know. The Kytaf, the second largest race in the Empire, refuse to let us know that actually. Judging from a number of things, we've ruled out the mammalian reproduction and egg laying. The most likely seems to be a sort of parasitic relationship with a local lifeform, as the Kytaf have never multiplied anywhere other than their homeworld, or pupa cocoon, but the research is mostly from the Torquemadan era, and is probably just propaganda."

Bester nodded and Richard sighed in relief. Bester then went on.

"All rather intriguing, I like to know many things about the people the Terran Federation would be interacting with."

Richard interjected quickly.

"Yes well.. some times bester here can get a little carried away, see his major was cultural anthropology and political sciences so hes a bit curious on many manners so when he meets new races hes sort of like a kid in a candy store."

Richard just shrugged the demon hybrid chuckled a bit and bester just shook his head.

"I have just had a horrable thaught from that" Cheng said, grining even wider before snaping back to the door where a large black box had hovered in, placed its self on the ground and then started to project pretty images of Dragona art in 3-d.

"Kid in a a candy store? We could give you the candy factory thanks to Ayame here" the chairman said with a bit of a laugh "Points in our history that any of us have witnesses we could show you are thanks to the fact that she is a Giglomaniac" he continued to say while at the same time worrying that one of them might smack him over the head or something for being rude against one of humanities cousin species. He breathed a sigh of relief when no one did any thing towards him "Well chairman if are quests wish to see our history I am willing to use my power to show them, however If any one in this room accepts I warn you now, you will feel everything from that event, fear, pleasure, pain what ever it is you will be there, but at the same time you can't be harmed at all" She said as she sipped her drink "I'd also be willing to share the 'three species rebellion' from when I was younger, whether or not the others would like me to share I don't know"

"Fine with me" Kyle said.

"Go ahead, let them see how vile humanity can be" Lucy replied.

"Feel free to also share my time on the front during the liberation of Empyion" the chairman told them "My life wasn't as interesting, life on a space colony isn't that exciting but use what you want" Christina said.

"Very well, any volunteers then to witness history?" Ayame asked.

Ami decided that it was impossible to follow the conversations the other ambassadors were having, and turned her attention to eating, trying desperately to inject some semblance of etiquette into her ravenous munching.

"Tell me Ami, how are you finding the food? We tryed to keep it 'exeno-friendly' but some dishes are just plain dangerous to some people." she pointed several chairs down where a dragona was eating an entire Fugu-fish raw "The imuno-system is such a complex thing..." she said to her self.

"Kid in a a candy store? We could give you the candy factory thanks to Ayame here" the chairman said with a bit of a laugh "Points in our history that any of us have witnesses we could show you are thanks to the fact that she is a Giglomaniac" he continued to say while at the same time worrying that one of them might smack him over the head or something for being rude against one of humanities cousin species. He breathed a sigh of relief when no one did any thing towards him "Well chairman if are quests wish to see our history I am willing to use my power to show them, however If any one in this room accepts I warn you now, you will feel everything from that event, fear, pleasure, pain what ever it is you will be there, but at the same time you can't be harmed at all" She said as she sipped her drink "I'd also be willing to share the 'three species rebellion' from when I was younger, whether or not the others would like me to share I don't know"

"Fine with me" Kyle said.

"Go ahead, let them see how vile humanity can be" Lucy replied.

"Feel free to also share my time on the front during the liberation of Empyion" the chairman told them "My life wasn't as interesting, life on a space colony isn't that exciting but use what you want" Christina said.

"Very well, any volunteers then to witness history?" Ayame asked.


Bester responded and smiled " hey I volunteer, it is one of my major fields of study. and I want to be open about other people and culture"

Richard sighed and just said "alright , its your funeral!"

"Oh, the food's great, thanks." she said, not sure what else to add.