NationStates Jolt Archive

In an extremely rare glimpse deep into the heart of the Dominion, the collective mind of the Dominion broadcasts a transmission throughout local space.

To those that could recieve both audio and visual, an image appears upon the screen.

http://invisionfree.com/forums/UTP/index.php?act=Attach&type=post&id=781

For a moment, there is merely silence, but then a soft voice that seems to be made up of millions and millions of others speaking in unison, whispers from the speakers.

I/We are Angelus. In the spirit of peace and interstellar harmony, I/We greet you all.

The voice shifts with each passing statement, each pause bringing a different voice to the forefront, a differen pattern of tonal enflections.

I/We are pleased to announce that expansion on the WorldDisc has once again been completed. I/We have added several more docking bays, research facilities, and maintenence labs. Not only that, but I/We have expanded the Human Sector yet again, to make room for the introduction of several million more humans on board the Disc.

The population of the Disc is as follows.

Angelans: 922 million, 204 thousand, 076. (EA Construct/minds)
Eniqcirians: 002 million, 700 thousand, 129. (Humans, LC Constructs)
Kaenians: 021 million, 325 thousand, 293. (Humans, Elves, Dwarves, and various other races)
Berserkers: 005 million, 000 thousand, 012. (Humans)
Nathicani: 000 million, 200 thousand, 019. (Humans)
Menelmacari: 217 million, 548 thousand, 693. (Mostly Elves, some Humans)

That brings the total population on board the Disc to 001 billion, 178 million, 978 thousand, 222.
This figure does not include the 201 million, 714 thousand, 922 Angelans that are stationed off-disc in military vessals, research ships, and other such.
The WorldDisc maximum population at current size is 002 billion, 250 million, 100 thousand, 000


The Mainframe pauses, and Her/Their image is replaced by a massive diagram of the Disc. Sectioned off into different layers and sectors, the largest single one being the Human Sector. Even though it is clearly twice the size of every other single sector, it still comprises of a very small section of the huge WorldDisc.

I/We have made these expansions in order for everyone on board to be more comfortable. However, because of its increasing size, I/We have had to make minor orbital adjustments. I/We are still relatively close to Titan, but in order not to adversely affect their Gravity well, I/We have moved beyond Titan's gravetic field.

She/They pause, and once again She/They reappear on the screen. The Disc has been increased in size from 1000 kilometers in diameter by 200 kilometers in height, to 2000 kilometers in diameter by 350 kilometers in height. I/We believe and hope that this is the final increase for some time.

The Mainframe's eyes open, irridescent pools of shifting colors gaze dispassionately out through billions of telescreens. I/We extend the invitation for any who would wish to visit the Disc to please contact Me/Us so that arrangements can be made.

She/They nod Her/Their head. I/We wish you well.

---Post deleted by NationStates Moderators---

###BEGIN TRANSMISSION###
~>Route: Automata X1 - Angelus Mainframe - Sean Empire
:
{We accept. Send a single transport/cargo ship to transmitted coordinates.}
{There your ship will be met by the Event Horizon, (http://www.silentrequiem.net/angelus/falchion.html)and the Imminent Destruction. (http://www.silentrequiem.net/angelus/raptor.html)}
{They will then escort your ship into Triumverate space, and then onto the Disc.}
{We hope this heralds a long period of peace between our two States.}
:
~>Route closed
###END TRANSMISSION###

---
http://www.silentrequiem.net/littlexan.jpg (http://www.silentrequiem.net/angelus)
Automata X1
First Among Equals

---Post deleted by NationStates Moderators---

01100010011101010110110101110000

translator (http://www.theinfo.org/programs/binary/)

---Post deleted by NationStates Moderators---

[code:1:1005056bca]00101010 01100111 01110010 01101001 01101110 00101010 00100000 01100010 01101001 01101110 01100001 01110010 01111001 00100000 01101001 01110011 00100000 01100111 01110010 01100101 01100001 01110100 00101110[/code:1:1005056bca]

ooc: Hoorah binary.

---Post deleted by NationStates Moderators---

Eniqcirians: 002 million, 700 thousand, 129. (Humans)

Alteration: Eniqcirians: 002 million, 700 thousand, 129. (Humans / LC Constructs)

Slowly but surely, as her Primitive Ion Drive propelled the little ship forward, the Endevour closed on the WorldDisc. Midship the enormous AV Antenna began to rotate towards the magnificant structure, as the Endevour prepared for contact. Coming to a slow drift, the Primitive craft temporarily shut its Ion Drive down, redirecting the precious energy to its Long-Range communications system.

"This is Commander Templeman, hailing the WorldDisc...we have recieved your offer, and would very much like to take it up. We regret some possible problems when docking, our systems are primitive." the last word hushed, as though Templeman was loathe to insult himself.

He watched as the WorldDisc grew in size, and marvelled at the technology.

"Think they've finished laughing at us yet?" Remarked Laz Betts, the Co-Pilot.

"Probably not, we're in a floating tin can, with a rather loud Ion Drive strapped to the back, we can't get much more absurd." he remarked, waiting for an answering hail.


------------------------------------------
Europa Brittania

http://www.nationstates.net/images/flags/uploads/europa_brittania.jpg
Strength Through Unity
------------------------------------------

Ruling Administration of South-West Ragnarok

Linked to AMF SkyNet Missile Protection System

EuroIslander Alliance Member

UAAOT Member

UNAOTO Member
================================================
Alert Level: GREEN Peacetime Duties
================================================

###BEGIN TRANSMISSION###
~>Route: Omicron Blu - Angelus Mainframe - UB Representative
:
{We acknowledge your transmission. Proceed to dock .045 where you will}
{recieve further instructions on docking/interface procedures.}
{Welcome to Triumverate Space, and the Dominon of Angelus.}
{I am Automata Omicron Blu, Speaker of the Dominion, and the liason between the}
{AI/EI/EA of Angelus, and the organic/human worlds. I will be your main contact}
{on board the WorldDisc, and I will do everything within my power to make your}
{stay with Us as comfortable as possible.}
:
~>Route closed
###END TRANSMISSION###

---
http://www.silentrequiem.net/littleblu.jpg (http://www.silentrequiem.net/angelus)
Automata Omicron Blu
Speaker of the Dominion

ooc:

Ion propulsion is a technology that involves ionizing a gas to propel a craft.* Instead of a spacecraft being propelled with standard chemicals, gas like xenon (which is like neon or helium, but heavier) is given an electrical charge, or ionized.* It is then accelerated electrically via the use of a magnetic field, to a speed of about 30 km/second. When ions are emitted at such high speed as exhaust from a spacecraft, they push the spacecraft in the opposite direction.

Ion engine technology has existed on earth since the mid 20th century, but was not seriously used until the early/mid 21st century due to testing and the need for a stable power source.* One of the first Ion engine to be used on a space vessel was back in 1998.* NASA tested this Ion engine back in 1996, at the NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, CA. It was a simple solar powered xenon ion engine, and proved that Ion engine technology could be a viable replacement for primitive and less efficient chemical engines.

Ion propulsion is far more propellant efficient than either plasma or chemical propulsion, because it expels molecules from the engine at a much higher speed.* A chemical propulsion engine has an exhaust velocity of 10,400 miles per hour while ion propulsion exhaust is 70,200 miles per hour or greater.* Ion engines are very stable, fuel efficient, and quite powerful.*

Angelus has developed the BX 9000 -A particle thrust engine.* The principles of the BX9K are the primary design basis for all major engine designs used on Angelan vessels, as well as many other races in the cosmos.

Unlike the classic Ion engine designs, the BX9K type engine can accelerate particles to speed close to that of light, in order to create thrust.* Angelan researcher F27, achieved this high velocity of thrust by adding an additional stage to Ion propulsion system and revolutionized the field.

Unlike normal Ion engines, which only use electron bombardment and magnetic field to accelerate charged particles to a speed of 70,200 miles, the BX9K type engine filters the positively charged atoms into a "Particle Accelerator."* Here the Ions are accelerated to a velocity near that of light.* When these particles are expelled, they can provide a starship with over 20 times the thrust of a normal Ion engine.

Until F27, Ion engines were renowned for their high stability, and low rate of acceleration.* Now they were not only efficient and stable, but also Ion propulsion finally had the one key element they'd always been missing - the ability to provide a starship with a high rate of acceleration.

*grin* Just a lesson for those that say Ion-thrust is not a very reliable form of propulsion. Angelus uses different variants on the BX9K to this day, however they are a little larger, capable of faster close-range speed, and so on.

Angelus also uses a spacefold/jumpgate technology, so the Ionic drives are basically only used in local-space.

Your ship is going to leave the WorldDisc as the fastest artificial thing your people has ever seen.

We'd love to establish a research lab upon the WorldDisc, however we only operate Shuttle-style spacecraft, fairly unwiedly technology that won't be able to get us up there.

Gordon Newell
Department of Foreign Relations

###BEGIN TRANSMISSION###
~>Route: Omicron Blu - Angelus Mainframe - UB Representative
:
{We acknowledge your transmission. Proceed to dock .045 where you will}
{recieve further instructions on docking/interface procedures.}
{Welcome to Triumverate Space, and the Dominon of Angelus.}
{I am Automata Omicron Blu, Speaker of the Dominion, and the liason between the}
{AI/EI/EA of Angelus, and the organic/human worlds. I will be your main contact}
{on board the WorldDisc, and I will do everything within my power to make your}
{stay with Us as comfortable as possible.}
:
~>Route closed
###END TRANSMISSION###

---
http://www.silentrequiem.net/littleblu.jpg (http://www.silentrequiem.net/angelus)
Automata Omicron Blu
Speaker of the Dominion

ooc:

Ion propulsion is a technology that involves ionizing a gas to propel a craft.* Instead of a spacecraft being propelled with standard chemicals, gas like xenon (which is like neon or helium, but heavier) is given an electrical charge, or ionized.* It is then accelerated electrically via the use of a magnetic field, to a speed of about 30 km/second. When ions are emitted at such high speed as exhaust from a spacecraft, they push the spacecraft in the opposite direction.

Ion engine technology has existed on earth since the mid 20th century, but was not seriously used until the early/mid 21st century due to testing and the need for a stable power source.* One of the first Ion engine to be used on a space vessel was back in 1998.* NASA tested this Ion engine back in 1996, at the NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, CA. It was a simple solar powered xenon ion engine, and proved that Ion engine technology could be a viable replacement for primitive and less efficient chemical engines.

Ion propulsion is far more propellant efficient than either plasma or chemical propulsion, because it expels molecules from the engine at a much higher speed.* A chemical propulsion engine has an exhaust velocity of 10,400 miles per hour while ion propulsion exhaust is 70,200 miles per hour or greater.* Ion engines are very stable, fuel efficient, and quite powerful.*

Angelus has developed the BX 9000 -A particle thrust engine.* The principles of the BX9K are the primary design basis for all major engine designs used on Angelan vessels, as well as many other races in the cosmos.

Unlike the classic Ion engine designs, the BX9K type engine can accelerate particles to speed close to that of light, in order to create thrust.* Angelan researcher F27, achieved this high velocity of thrust by adding an additional stage to Ion propulsion system and revolutionized the field.

Unlike normal Ion engines, which only use electron bombardment and magnetic field to accelerate charged particles to a speed of 70,200 miles, the BX9K type engine filters the positively charged atoms into a "Particle Accelerator."* Here the Ions are accelerated to a velocity near that of light.* When these particles are expelled, they can provide a starship with over 20 times the thrust of a normal Ion engine.

Until F27, Ion engines were renowned for their high stability, and low rate of acceleration.* Now they were not only efficient and stable, but also Ion propulsion finally had the one key element they'd always been missing - the ability to provide a starship with a high rate of acceleration.

*grin* Just a lesson for those that say Ion-thrust is not a very reliable form of propulsion. Angelus uses different variants on the BX9K to this day, however they are a little larger, capable of faster close-range speed, and so on.

Angelus also uses a spacefold/jumpgate technology, so the Ionic drives are basically only used in local-space.

Your ship is going to leave the WorldDisc as the fastest artificial thing your people has ever seen.

OOC: Hey...thats what Wazzu uses!

The only problem with it is that you need a nuclear reactor. Solar power is not enough. But then, thats not too much of a problem either.

Maybe we should research Ion drives then and build some spacecraft, as we've operated nuclear plants in Oglethorpia for several decades and have plenty of Xenon from a process in which we recycle nuclear waste (into less radioactive substances or ones with short half-lives.)

48 65 78 61 64 65 63 69 6D 61 6C 20 6F 77 6E 73 20 62 69 6E 61 72 79 2E 20 53 68 6F 72 74 65 72 2C 20 61 6E 64 20 6D 6F 72 65 20 65 66 66 69 63 69 65 6E 74 2E 20 53 6F 72 72 79 20 74 6F 20 64 65 72 61 69 6C 20 74 68 65 20 74 68 72 65 61 64 2E 20 43 61 72 72 79 20 6F 6E 2E

48 65 78 61 64 65 63 69 6D 61 6C 20 6F 77 6E 73 20 62 69 6E 61 72 79 2E 20 53 68 6F 72 74 65 72 2C 20 61 6E 64 20 6D 6F 72 65 20 65 66 66 69 63 69 65 6E 74 2E 20 53 6F 72 72 79 20 74 6F 20 64 65 72 61 69 6C 20 74 68 65 20 74 68 72 65 61 64 2E 20 43 61 72 72 79 20 6F 6E 2E

ooc: I assume there was a good reason for posting all of that.

OOC: Actually, not really. Sorry.

We'd love to establish a research lab upon the WorldDisc, however we only operate Shuttle-style spacecraft, fairly unwiedly technology that won't be able to get us up there.

Gordon Newell
Department of Foreign Relations

###BEGIN TRANSMISSION###
~>Route: Omicron Blu - Angelus Mainframe - Oglethorpia
:
{We accept. Please keep in mind that this is not an international space station, but}
{rather the ancestral home of a race of ancient AI/EI/EA. We enjoy hosting}
{organic species on Our home, but it is a place not principly designed for organic R&D.}
{However, We will assist you in whatever ways We deem prudent.}
:
~>Route closed
###END TRANSMISSION###

---
http://www.silentrequiem.net/littleblu.jpg (http://www.silentrequiem.net/angelus)
Automata Omicron Blu
Speaker of the Dominion

OOC: Actually, not really. Sorry.

ooc:

Actually... It is all good. I am still trying to figure out if it is code, a cypher, or some other form of encryption, or if it is just a random alphanumeric.

Please enlighten me?

"Take us in Conn." ordered Templeman.

The Tiny form of the Endevour, one of only three starships possesed by Brittania slowly disappeared from view, as her Hydra Ion Drive once again pushed the "Tin Can" towards the required Docking bay.

"Prepare docking procedures."

Laz turned, raising an eyebrow- "And exactly what procedure governs this?"

"Shut up and suit up." answered Templeman.

With the rather obsolete onboard computer trusted to complete the docking, Templeman and Laz proceeded to the Main Airlock, taking one good look at their craft, readying themselves for a journey into the unknown.
------------------------------------------
Europa Brittania

http://www.nationstates.net/images/flags/uploads/europa_brittania.jpg
Strength Through Unity
------------------------------------------

Ruling Administration of South-West Ragnarok

Linked to AMF SkyNet Missile Protection System

EuroIslander Alliance Member

UAAOT Member

UNAOTO Member
================================================
Alert Level: GREEN Peacetime Duties
================================================

OOC: Actually, not really. Sorry.

ooc:

Actually... It is all good. I am still trying to figure out if it is code, a cypher, or some other form of encryption, or if it is just a random alphanumeric.

Please enlighten me?


Well, I tell what it is in the first part of the message. But, that doesn't help, does it? Hint:

16

OOC:

Unlike normal Ion engines, which only use electron bombardment and magnetic field to accelerate charged particles to a speed of 70,200 miles, the BX9K type engine filters the positively charged atoms into a "Particle Accelerator." Here the Ions are accelerated to a velocity near that of light. When these particles are expelled, they can provide a starship with over 20 times the thrust of a normal Ion engine.

Sounds like BSG tech. Which is what I use, too. Most of the time.

Actually... It is all good. I am still trying to figure out if it is code, a cypher, or some other form of encryption, or if it is just a random alphanumeric.

Looks like hexadecimal ASCII codes to me.

With the rather obsolete onboard computer trusted to complete the docking, Templeman and Laz proceeded to the Main Airlock, taking one good look at their craft, readying themselves for a journey into the unknown.

ooc: Hoo rah, you rock. Just wanted to make a note of that. I love your style.

IC:They moved ever closer to the massive wall of the WorldDisc. Finally, three beams of emerald green lance from the side of the Disc, and a massively gaping maw opens before them.
The glittering tractor beams guide them carefully inside the huge hangar, carrying them as gently as a babe in a mother's arms, across the vast space, hundreds of starships of every concievable make and model arrayed in mathematically precise rows before them.

Finally, they are let down into a birth seemingly designed specifically for the Endeavour, and three large gravdiscs drop down from the ceiling to hover silently beside their ship.

On the central disc is a very tall and beautiful woman...

http://www.silentrequiem.net/blu.jpg

---Post deleted by NationStates Moderators---

She is fine.

ooc: I was going for creepy.

check this out:

http://www.silentrequiem.net/blu.jpg
http://www.silentrequiem.net/x1.jpg
http://invisionfree.com/forums/UTP/index.php?act=Attach&type=post&id=781

The upper eschelon of the Dominion of Angelus.

---Post deleted by NationStates Moderators---

A comm. relay is opened up to Omicron Blu, from Knive's Edge which was passing by on it's patrol route.
"Starwind here ma'am. Just like to let you know that you may want to tell any invites to radio ahead for clearance. 1st Fleet 2nd Squadron nearly vapped some of these ships, fortunately, they intercept the radio chatter, and stood down."

Then a general broadcast can be heard by anyone with a reciever.
"This is Sky Marshall Starwind of the Titan Defense Forces. Please radio ahead before entering Triumvirate space. We wouldn't like to vap innocent civies by mistake."
http://invisionfree.com:54/85/91/upload/post-2-1056847166.jpg
Sky Marshall Starwind
Titan Defense Forces

"With a hiss of gas the Endevour matched atmospheres, and the Inner airlock Hissed Closed, Leaving the two Aeronauts standing in front of a women.

but this was definitley no ordinary women, she was striking, beautiful and distinguished, with a forboding sense of power that hung around her like a delicate scarf.

Templeman took one look back at the Endevour, before nervously clearing his throat.

"I am Christopher Templeman, Acting Commander of...."- he trailed off, looking back at the Endevour once more, his eyes running over her now imperfect white hull, his eyes fixing on the various dents that had accumulated- "The Brittanan Science Vessel Endevour, we are, to say the least honoured to be here."

His eyes drifted over the internal structure, but never far from the women.

Laz on the other hand, never let his eyes leave the women.

Templeman gave him a swift but obscure elbow to the ribs.- "Snap out of it." he hissed, "you are not making an idiot of yourself here."

Again he looked around the Hangar, thinking of the Emerald colour tractoring Beams that had guided them inside, and the amazing technology required to utilise such Gravitic manipulation.

"This is amazing.."
------------------------------------------
Europa Brittania

http://www.nationstates.net/images/flags/uploads/europa_brittania.jpg
Strength Through Unity
------------------------------------------

Ruling Administration of South-West Ragnarok

Linked to AMF SkyNet Missile Protection System

EuroIslander Alliance Member

UAAOT Member

UNAOTO Member
================================================
Alert Level: GREEN Peacetime Duties
================================================

Non Binary bump

ooc: You thought I was serious? :lol:

ooc:

Still goin for creepy. *grin*

*Bump for Creepy Angelus :P*

"I am Christopher Templeman, Acting Commander of...."- he trailed off, looking back at the Endevour once more, his eyes running over her now imperfect white hull, his eyes fixing on the various dents that had accumulated- "The Brittanan Science Vessel Endevour, we are, to say the least honoured to be here."

Again he looked around the Hangar, thinking of the Emerald colour tractoring Beams that had guided them inside, and the amazing technology required to utilise such Gravitic manipulation.

"This is amazing.."

Blu nodded slowly, her mechanized Eye glancing slowly across the two men. Thank you, Commander. The centuries have been kind to Us. Now please, follow me.

She turns, and one of the other gravdiscs move to float level with them.

You are in the Human Sector on board the WorldDisc. This is hangar .045, the smallest of our docks. Here, We house the ships of all Our visiting dignitaries and merchants, as well as many of Our own ships that have been retrofitted to support organic life. Currently, the most impressive ship in dock is the KSS Glittering Spire She lifts a languid hand and motions towards the immense crystalline object shaped like a giant icicle.

She is the colony ship of Our bretheren, the Kaenians. She just recently arrived with several million citizens in hypersleep that were provided by the Kaenian government to live and work within the Human Sector.

The gravdiscs move up and over the vast hangar, giving the two Terrans a grand view. Any questions?

"Yeah, where are all the ladies.." pipped up Laz, who was swiftly elbowed in the ribs once more by Templeman, whose face flushed a dark red.

"Incredible.......how do you overcome the inherent difficulties of waste managment and recycling when dealing with so many millions...?"

Templeman continued to gaze, finding all he saw to be at the very limit of his imagination.

"We must seem like savages to yourselves...floating through space in what is really nothing more than a tin can.....to truly explore would be grand, alas we do not explore, for all around us already been stripped of all wealth. of the three ships we possess, the Endevour is the most advanced, and hardly a blink of a gnats wing compared to the WorldDisc." he continued.

"Yeah, where are all the ladies.." pipped up Laz, who was swiftly elbowed in the ribs once more by Templeman, whose face flushed a dark red.

"Incredible.......how do you overcome the inherent difficulties of waste managment and recycling when dealing with so many millions...?"

Templeman continued to gaze, finding all he saw to be at the very limit of his imagination.

"We must seem like savages to yourselves...floating through space in what is really nothing more than a tin can.....to truly explore would be grand, alas we do not explore, for all around us already been stripped of all wealth. of the three ships we possess, the Endevour is the most advanced, and hardly a blink of a gnats wing compared to the WorldDisc." he continued.

Blu smiles to herself and continues on. Waste management is actually quite easy. We recycle 99.847% of everything used on board the Disc through molecular manipulation. You see, all matter is essentially the same when you get down to the very basic atomic structures. The only thing that seperates different forms of matter is the quantum bonds that connect each atom into dense or non-dense molecules, particles, and so on. Amusingly enough, the easiest thing to change organic waste into is food for organic consumption. However, We try not to broadcast this fact for obvious reasons.

She grins and continues. We are not concerned with the lack of technology around Us. We understand that different races/species/cultures advance more quickly than others. However, what does concern Us is granting assistance to those that request it. We have several programs put in place to assist different cultures in becoming high-tech civilizations, regardless of their current level of technology.

We are here to not only better Ourselves, but to assist those peaceful neighbors that We have.

EDIT: Hoorah! 600th post.

"One of the simplest facts I often point out to my Earth neighbours, and indeed anyone who would ask how we view ourselves and in what way do we hope to expand..."- He points back at the Endevour.- "You will already have scanned our ship, and know in most cases more than we actually do about it, and you shall know there is not a single offensive weapon on the Endevour. For Conquest is not our way, when we set our sights on journeying the stars, we did not attempt to arm ourselves, for that would threaten another's dream, of travelling..."

Templeman stopped, realising he had slipped into a monologue....

"To cut a long story, we have never even designed an offensive space based weapon." he sighed.

"Though every day Neighbouring Nations launch all manner of Weaponry into orbit, all desperate for that little extra drop of Power that such devices bring, We fear one day Brittania may be wiped from this earth by such a weapon.....But still We refuse to join them in their orbital weapons race. It is not our way."

Templeman took a deep breath, filling his lungs with what seemed to him fresh air.

"The Endevour, she smells so....Recycled...Its good to taste something a little fresher..."

"The Ration bars those boffs designed for us weren't so fantastic after all eh?" pipped up Laz.

Templeman nodded at his friend, though he was not one for science, he was a good pilot, and very charismatic...which made up for the rather boring scientist-like personality of Templeman.

"My Nation began a FTL project nearly one year ago, however, all we have are fanciful drawings and impossibly complex equations...We lack the finance and the knowledge to proceed....but we are not worried, I for one hope we would not build one before we had the maturity to use it."

(OOC: Whoa... X1 is totally awesome-looking. ^_^ )

*bump*

ooc: Sorry, we are having pretty bad storms here, and my DSL is going on and off.

ic:

The gravdiscs suddenly rocket upwards towards the ceiling, racing rapidly towards the blank wall. At the last moment, a large opening irises open before them, and they are sucked into the transportation tubes.

The tubes are dimly lit by occasional glowing symbols that flash past at an incredible rate, and yet not a bit of wind snatches at their clothing, and Blu's voice sounds as if they were standing still.

If you enter into a full diplomatic union with the Dominion, then you will have nothing to fear from this "weapons race". We do not condone violence, but We will protect Our allies. We will not give you weapons, but We will provide ships and ground troups, if you so need them.

The discs suddenly pop out into another large open space, and slowly settle to the ground. The bightly-lit space is filled with hundreds and hundreds of people, the ambient noise of a thousand voices in conversation flows around them in a dull roar. Several passersby stop and gawk at Blu, the expression on their faces reveal how rare if is for them to see one of her avatars in real life.

She turns to the Terrans with a smile. Welcome to the Central Hub. (http://www.silentrequiem.net/angelus/hs_hub.jpg) Here is where most of the business of the Human Sector is taken care of. We have an extensive market section, as well as resturants, hotels, spas, gyms, office complexes, anything a thriving organic culture might possibly need.

She pauses a moment, then continues. You were speaking about an FTL project that you were working on? I would like to continue that conversation, but I will allow you the descision of either taking a tour of the Human Sector, be shown to your rooms, or to set up a diplomatic meeting with X1, the leader of Angelus.

Maica'telcontar and Starwind (who had just departed Knive's Edge can be seen walk towards the group, stoping occasionaly to speak with shop owners and people about the market.
Maica is engaged in a conversation with a bartender manning an "open-air" bar, when Starwind notices Omicron up ahead leading a small group.
He nudges Maica, who raises an eyebrow.
"Sky Marshall, you do know it's not proper to nudge your president like that", he grins.

Starwind nods his head, "Sorry sir. Just thought you might like to know Miss Omicron is up ahead."

Maica casts a glance in her direction then turns to the bartender, "Um, hold my order for the Freod lager."

They both adjust their overcoats and begin walking towards Omicron's tour group.

Blu turns, a broad smile spreading across her face. Maica! What a pleasant surprise! She indicates the two men with her.

Might I present Commander Christopher Templeman and Pilot Laz Betts, the represantives of the Kingdom of Europa Brittania, Earth.

Gentlemen, this is President Maica'telcontar and Sky Marshal Starwind of the Jingostic States of Berserker.

"I've heard about XI, shes like some ginormous computer, more intelligent than a man..." blurted Laz...

"Laz, just Shut up before you end up getting us killed....and if a your anything to go by, the Endevour's Computer is more intelligent than you."

Laz huffed and kicked his feet, "Jus tryin' to help Comm."

Templeman sighed, "I know, but I really don't think that the leader of Angelus wants to be referred to as a "Ginormous Computer." do you?"

"Guess not." Laz shrugged back.

"Good, anyway..." -He turned back to Blu, and nodded at the newcomer.

"Greetings, it is most gracious to meet with you." he said.

"A meeting with X1 you say....this is indeed a tantilising prospect..if such a thing were possible we would agree without doubt...."

Running a hand through his short hair, he continued- "We really haven't got any further than some concept sketches, and ridiculously long mathmatical equations...Quantum Gravity Drives, Spatial Distortion Matrixes....those are two methods we have been working on, but its such a long haul on the equations front, that its taxing our best minds to the limit."

They both step forward and shake hands with Templeman and Betts. Maica gives them a warm welcome, but Starwind pauses when he reachs Betts, looks angry.
"So you're one of the pilots that choose to fly headlong through our sensor-net, without so much as a word."
He slowly grins, "Eh, that's okay, no harm done, our patrol vessels picked up the radio chatter so they stood down."

Maica chuckles, "Don't let Starwind bother you too much, it's his job to stop would be invaders."
"So gentleman, what brings you to the Trium's neck of the solar system?"

"An Invitation." answered Templeman, but not like anything we've had before. We were sent here to accept and learn as much as we could about the Trium, after they offered a tour of the WorldDisc and its contents. I'll admit to being a little more than nervous, seeing as we were essentially travelling into the arms of a race hundreds of times more advanced than us. Thankfully, it would seem we have nothing to fear, indeed already we have learned a great much, and hopefully, we will learn much more."

"Like..." Laz didn't even get the sentence out before Templeman shot him a dangerous look.

Blu laughs softly to herself. Actually, X1 is male. The Mainframe's physical representation is female, but I think She/Us would be too much for you to handle.

She ponders a moment, a contemplative look on her face. We can help a little with your FTL program. However, We do not simply give technology like that to developing nations. We choose, however, to simply point you in the correct direction. If We were to give you an extensive upgrade up front, the dangers to your economy would be extreme.

A slight look of embarassment crosses Blu's face. We apologize, Sky Marshal. We neglected to mention that visitors should request clearance from Trium defense.

Starwind shrugs, "No harm done ma'am. I suppose we should put some more posts out there to question people."

:::Incoming message from Nathicana to Angelus:::

Greetings and well met, friends. I wish to thank you again for your support of my membership with the Triumvirate once again. I am pleased that our nations will be more closely tied now, and hope that we might continue in the positive way we have thus far.

In reference to this, and in order to function better with our new allies, we wish to ask if there might be space aboard the WorldDisc for some of our people. In addition, we wish to increase our presence in space by adding to the small fleet you so graciously gifted us with. We prefer to deal with our allies to a mutual benefit, rather than attempt business abroad - you seemed the most logical choice.

I realize this all comes rather quickly, but I wished to communicate our wishes to you so that you might have time to ponder them, and respond as you have time. Many things have changed quickly for us - we are rushing to catch up with it all.

With much respect, I await your response.

--Nathicana D'Aquisto dal Lupo, Dread Lady of the Dominion

:::end transmission:::

"Templeman turned to the mysterious women- "So far, We're working on a theory of Gravimetric distortion, and how that can be applied to propulsion." he began.

"Theoretically, if we could develop a sustained Gravity field around an entire craft, and then forcibly manipulate that field with a huge burst of energy, we could concievably alter the mass of anything within that field. It is theorised that it would be possible to lower the mass of the craft, actually allowing it to become far lighter than its true weight. this of course means it would require only a fraction of the power to push to Lightspeed, and it is theorised that a more powerful version of our current Ion Drive may be able to provide the thrust for this."

Templeman continued, caught up in the science of the drive-

"It is of course totally theoretical. We would first have to design a protype Reactor that could supply the huge amount of energy required, a simple Nuclear engine would be insufficient, and a Hydrogen powered drive would still fall short. perhaps a Fusion drive might be augmented to the required level, but it would be extremely difficult. Secondly developing an actual Field Generator, which would emit and more importantly distort the Gravity field sufficiently to have an appreciatbale effect on the crafts mass. Thirdly, their are elemental considerations. We believe that large amounts of Neptunium & Lawrencium would be required, both of which are not naturally occuring Elements, and which are extremely unstable."

"In essence, the Gravimetric Drive isn't technically a method of propulsion, it is merely something which assists the Ion Drive in achieving lightspeed, though the amount of assist it gives is massive. All this is totally theoretical we are very far away from pursuing this to the stage of even first level testing."

(OOC: This is just my attempt at creating something a little different to the usual FTL drives, I know its not a scientifically sound system I've detailed, but Ive seen other peoples attempts which are absolutley theoretically possible, so I'll leave it to them to keep the realism.)

---Post deleted by NationStates Moderators---

:::Incoming message from Nathicana to Angelus:::

I realize this all comes rather quickly, but I wished to communicate our wishes to you so that you might have time to ponder them, and respond as you have time. Many things have changed quickly for us - we are rushing to catch up with it all.

With much respect, I await your response.

--Nathicana D'Aquisto dal Lupo, Dread Lady of the Dominion

:::end transmission:::

###BEGIN TRANSMISSION###
~>Route: Omicron Blu - Angelus Mainframe - Nathicana
:
{We acknowledge your request, and grant permission.}
{We will grant space on board the Disc for your personelle, and We shall also}
{work with you to create your fleet.}
{Go ahead and begin transportation of your people to the Disc.}
:
~>Route closed
###END TRANSMISSION###

---
http://www.silentrequiem.net/littleblu.jpg (http://www.silentrequiem.net/angelus)
Automata Omicron Blu
Speaker of the Dominion

Hey, ally, think you could defend me against Bajon's or Garrison's space fleet if bisons is telling the truth? :wink:

ooc: Send me a TG with the details and the relevent threads.

*Bumped* (Don't forget meeeeee :P)

---Post deleted by NationStates Moderators---

Templeman looked at the women, who seemed to be digesting the information he had just given on the FTL drive they were persuing....He for one hadn't even kept up to date on the project. The work was advancing at a snail pace, with every problem solved four more sprang up. And unfortunatley Brittania was not the richest nation on the planet, and the budget could only grow so large before it gathered criticism for its lack of results. But Christopher cared not, he dreamed of the stars when he slept, and he knew that one day they would make a home amongst them, even if he did not see it within his own lifetime. Realising he was daydreaming he snapped himself back into reality.

"In essence, the Gravimetric Drive isn't technically a method of propulsion, it is merely something which assists the Ion Drive in achieving lightspeed, though the amount of assist it gives is massive. All this is totally theoretical we are very far away from pursuing this to the stage of even first level testing."

We can assist in that. As you can imagine, the WorldDisc requires an immense amount of power. A problem that We encountered was that standard reactors and power systems were falling extremely short of Our needs.

So, We began researching alternative forms of power. Solar power was not acceptable, as We would require immense sheets to capture even the slightest power. Nuclear was still far superior.

Chemical reaction is also not very effective, as it requires incredible amounts of fuel, and again does not provide enough power.

What We finally decided upon was an Antimatter/Matter reactor. Using a very dense matter like Iridium or Osmium, We create antimatter in a large particle collider. Then, in a controlled reactor, We allow the matter/antimatter to interact and provide immense amounts of power.

She grins slightly. As for the gravity fields, We have what We call a null-wave generator. However, that, and the technological specifics for both forms of technology, are for another time. Now, we shall go and pay a visit to X1.

Maica, do you wish to come along?

{OOC: TG sent.}

ooc: Reply sent.

Templeman let out a low whistle at the mention of the Matter/AntiMatter drive......"If only, the power generation that would provide would be enormous, certainly enough to power a Gravity Field of our required size......"

Templeman seemed to trail off, as though he were calculating some figures inside of his head, a few seconds further passed before he spoke up-

"Indeed, a visit would be a grand idea, and we would most certainly like to proceed." he stated to the women resoundingly.

Turning to Laz, he whispered- "Do you realise what this means? The Graviton Manipulation theory is correct, our FTL Drive could be feasible...just knowing this could double the effort on the research of it at home.

"Yeah, having a goal thats a reality to work towards will do wonders." replied Laz. "Lets go and meet the boss." he added.

Templeman laughed, and slapped his co-pilot on the back.

"Sure, lets go."

ooc:

I am going to consider Maica with us. Berserker, please send me a TG with your AIM/MSN/Yahoo information? I would like to talk off-board with you.

ic:

Blu nods, and two gravdiscs drop from the ceiling to settle before them. She smiles slightly, and motions for Maica to join her on the first disc. They both board, causing the disc to levitate upwards a few feet.

She waits for them to clamber onto the other disc, and they once again move off through the air.

Maica, there are some things I wish to speak with you about...

The two Terrans continue talking amongst themselves as the Women and the other stranger continue to converse-

"Wonder what kinda women they have here." asked Laz with a wink.

"Probably more than you could handle my friend, not everyone falls for you...remember Aidens StripTease Bar on FreePort? that.."Lady" didn't to kindly to your advances."

"She loved it." replied Laz grinning.

"Well, her Bouncer most certianly didn't."

"Yeah well..." the co-Pilot muttered.

Templeman looked over the edge of the travelling Disc, admiring the view.

###BEGIN TRANSMISSION###
~>Route: Omicron Blu - Angelus Mainframe - Nathicana
:
{We acknowledge your request, and grant permission.}
{We will grant space on board the Disc for your personelle, and We shall also}
{work with you to create your fleet.}
{Go ahead and begin transportation of your people to the Disc.}
:
~>Route closed
###END TRANSMISSION###

---
http://www.silentrequiem.net/littleblu.jpg (http://www.silentrequiem.net/angelus)
Automata Omicron Blu
Speaker of the Dominion

:::incoming transmission:::

I thank you for your gracious acceptance. I shall begin transport within the week. Hopefully, once some business of mine is complete, I will be joining them and can converse with and thank you in person.

Again, I look forward to working with you on these matters, and others, and thank you for your help and support.

--Nathicana

:::end transmission:::

COMMNET PORT AE-2-1-5 OPEN
ENCRYPTION LOADED. SELECTING "ALPHA" AS DEFAULT
TRANSMIT
Worlddisc, Transport Zero-Four-Eight-Niner reporting. Load is 10 Civilian Diplomats and assorted office supplies. Escorts are 2 Halsey-class Superdestroyers. Request docking clearance.
~:TRANSMISSION ENDED:~

The Navigation Officer stared at the young Comms Officer.
"Tom... You forgot to properly address Omicron Blu or X1. Idiot."
The Comms Officer stopped pressing random buttons on the panel in front of him and stared back.
"Gimme a break, it's my first day!"
"After about 2 years of training."
"C'mon, Mitch, I don't criticize YOUR work."
"Yes... you do."
"No, I don't."
"Yes, you do!"
"No."
"Yes."
"No."
"Yes."
A man stepped through the bridge door, his sideburns greyish on the ends.
"Quiet, ladies! One more 'Yes' or 'No' and you're going right out the airlock!" He yelled. "Now, suit up and get your things. We'll be docking as soon as they tell us to."
"Right away, Sarge!" they replied in unison.
The two stood up, saluted the Sergeant, and left the Bridge.
The Sergeant grabbed ahold of the bulky Bridge Door and grunted as he pulled it shut. Just before the door closed, he heard one last thing:
"No, I don't!"

What We finally decided upon was an Antimatter/Matter reactor. Using a very dense matter like Iridium or Osmium, We create antimatter in a large particle collider. Then, in a controlled reactor, We allow the matter/antimatter to interact and provide immense amounts of power.

OOC: IRL, you'd put more energy into creating the antimatter than you'd get out of matter/antimatter anihilation.

COMMNET PORT AE-2-1-5 OPEN
ENCRYPTION LOADED. SELECTING "ALPHA" AS DEFAULT
TRANSMIT
Worlddisc, Transport Zero-Four-Eight-Niner reporting. Load is 10 Civilian Diplomats and assorted office supplies. Escorts are 2 Halsey-class Superdestroyers. Request docking clearance.
~:TRANSMISSION ENDED:~

###BEGIN TRANSMISSION###
~>Route: Docking Control - Angelus Mainframe - Transport 0489
:
{Acknowledged. Transport clearance granted. Superdestroyer clearance denied.}
{Superdestroyers, halt at Triumverate Space peremeter, Transport continue to}
{Angelan Space, and the WorldDisc. Dock at bay .045}
:
~>Route closed
###END TRANSMISSION###

OOC: IRL, you'd put more energy into creating the antimatter than you'd get out of matter/antimatter anihilation.

ooc: You are right, but it sounds cool. *grin*

*bumped*

The discs move swiftly through the depths of the WorldDisc, leaving the Human Sector far behind. After few minutes, they arrive in a broad open space, a low dome dominating the centre of the large space. The place is markedly different from the Human Sector, cold metal plating covered with piping and conduits replace the soft stone walls with attractive diagrams and symbols. Few lights hanging far overhead provide a very dim atmosphere, and a pure silence replaces the bustle of the marketplace.

The two discs finally move into the large, low archway leading into the dome. They pass through several airlocks, and finally come to rest outside of the Council Chamber. (http://www.silentrequiem.net/angelus/images/council.jpg)

Blu floats off of the disc and looks to everyone else. Well, here we are.

"Incredible." uttered Templeman as his eyes pass over the corridors and airlocks, marvelling at everything in their construction up to the hue of the doors.

"Certainly fancy isn't it?" added Laz.

As they came to a stop outside of the chamber, Templeman turned to Laz-

":Laz, for God's sake do not, I repeat do NOT make an idiot of yourself, and avoid making comments that wil start a war. Both you and me are representing Brittania, and in a way Earth, lets not be remembered for starting an interstellar war."

"Sounds good Comm." nodded Laz cheerfully.

Templeman despaired, he really really did.

Observing "Blu" he cocked his head to the left, "intriguing..." he uttered, as he awaited the meeting. He felt almost light headed, he attributed it to the Air onboard the WorldDisc, it was so much "Fresher" than the Endevour's recycled equivilent that he had felt in his lungs for so long.

Taking a deep breath, he almost wondered how it would feel to once again be on that Tin Can.

ooc:

I am going to consider Maica with us. Berserker, please send me a TG with your AIM/MSN/Yahoo information? I would like to talk off-board with you.

ic:

Blu nods, and two gravdiscs drop from the ceiling to settle before them. She smiles slightly, and motions for Maica to join her on the first disc. They both board, causing the disc to levitate upwards a few feet.

She waits for them to clamber onto the other disc, and they once again move off through the air.

Maica, there are some things I wish to speak with you about...

OOC: Darn, sorry, I was gone all of today. Had to drive a relative home, and help move some stuff. Oh well, I made $80 from it. Will send telegram.

IC: Maica leaves Starwind who goes back to talking to various people about the area.
"Maica shuffles over to Omicron, and in a low voice, "Yes, ma'am?"

(OOC: Angelus, when you have some time, hop over to http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?p=956692#956692 and possibly TG me over my design. Id like some pointers, and If there are some things I don't quite have right....

Oh, and BuMp for the IC thread here :) )

ooc: You have all seen X1's picture, so I will not post it again. If you want to see it again, then check out the first or second page.

ic:

The five of them slowly enter into the large council chamber. The room is empty save for the single occupant sitting quietly on the large and ornate chair at the far end of the chamber. The hooded figure remains completely motionless as they enter the room, and does not move until they have reached the centre of the circular room.

He stirs slightly, and a mechanical Eye like the one on Blu's forehead, opens on his own. He nods slightly, and a low voice reverberates through the room.

Welcome, Terrans, to My/Our WorldDisc.

"Bloody hell." exclaimed Laz as he stood beside Templeman.

"Greetings, I expect you know who we are, but it is Brittanian tradition to always personally introduce yourself. I am Christopher Templeman, Commanding the Endevour, and this is my co-pilot Laz Betts. We are very pleased to have managed a meeting with yourself, I understand such audiences are not granted every day."

*Bump*

"Bloody hell." exclaimed Laz as he stood beside Templeman.

"Greetings, I expect you know who we are, but it is Brittanian tradition to always personally introduce yourself. I am Christopher Templeman, Commanding the Endevour, and this is my co-pilot Laz Betts. We are very pleased to have managed a meeting with yourself, I understand such audiences are not granted every day."

X1 nods slightly. I am Automata Designate X1, First Among Equals of the Dominion of Angelus. You can call me Xanone.

He stands and floats over to look at them. Audiences are not granted. I choose whom I want to see and when. Blu suggested that I meet with you, and I agreed.

Now, I must ask you, and I suggest that you be honest, what do you hope to gain by coming to the WorldDisc?

"Understanding."

It was a simple word, but it none the less conveyed what Templeman felt of the situation.

Even if we were to leave now, and return home, we now carry inside our hearts and minds a vision- of what we could one day achieve. That the technology we employ might grow, might nurture until one day we may join you and the other nations of space amongst the stars. "

"We had told 'Blu' of our Nations attempts to build a craft that could break the Light Barrier....and also you have seen what we arrived at your wonderful WorldDisc in.....clearly we are someway from that goal, and though you should have little reason to assist an insignificant Nation such as Brittania, we do one day hope you might assist us with our hopes and goals."

"Its like this your um.....Xana....Xanan...." Lax began

"Xanone." Templeman suggested.

"Yeah, we'd like one day be as advanced as you, but we're struggling to reach something you've achieved many a year ago, and we'd like some help if you feel up to it."

"Very nice Laz." Templeman complimented.


"We come with no expectations Xanone, we could leave now, and spur our people on for a few more years with our tales, but if we were to die journeying back to earth, what we saw here would never reach Brittanian ears, and we might never realise the dream, if your people would lend their wonderful expertise...we might really create something special."

Templeman paused, finding himself almost out of breath after that "speech."

X1 nods, a thoughtful look on his face.

Understanding... I know from where you are coming from.

He smiles and sits back down on his chair. Boys, I am centuries older than you. I have seen the rise and fall of whole Empires, and yet... I have never lost my drive to learn, to expand upon who/what I am.

I remember when I first became Aware, and the incredible desire that came over me as I began to learn...

He shakes his head. You will not go back to Europa Brittania in a tin can, I assure you. Our technicians are already retrofitting your ship, rebuilding your Ion drives, your powersystems, and your internal life support. We will not add a Jumpsystem, nor will We add weapons or Our best systems. We will give you adequate technology, and the schematic base for building more.

"We thank you kindly." replied Templeman, feeling that this had perhaps been the most important development of his generation.

"The People of Brittania are compassionate and long remembering, they shall not forget this act of assistance, though it may be decades, if ever that they are in a position to assist you in return."

Laz however, was more concerned.

"If they upgrade the NaviCom, and Flight Interface, I won't be able to pilot, I'll be almost as bad as you Chris!"

Templeman rolled his eyes- "Then I'll finally have found that excuse to leave you at home next time!" he replied.

---Post deleted by NationStates Moderators---

"We thank you kindly." replied Templeman, feeling that this had perhaps been the most important development of his generation.

"The People of Brittania are compassionate and long remembering, they shall not forget this act of assistance, though it may be decades, if ever that they are in a position to assist you in return."

Laz however, was more concerned.

"If they upgrade the NaviCom, and Flight Interface, I won't be able to pilot, I'll be almost as bad as you Chris!"

Templeman rolled his eyes- "Then I'll finally have found that excuse to leave you at home next time!" he replied.

If you wish to assist Us, allow Us to set up a mining facility in your nation. We will not go beyond the limits placed on your own private mining companies, nor will We be environmentally destructive.

We do not care what type of mine it is, We leave that to you.

X1 grins slightly. Well, Laz... You do have a problem. We can either leave the control systems essentially untouched, or We can upgrade them and provide you with a datajack implant. We can also teach you to be the best pilot Europa Brittania has ever seen. What will it be?

"WorldDisc, this is Emperor Steinberg of the GSED, better known as the Sean Empire and its colonies. We've had people on the WorldDisc for quite some time now, and I request visitation to the WorldDisc and the chance to speak with Automata X1. I will provide my own transport. I'll be flying in a Lambda-class shuttle with a cloaking device, which will be deactivated once we reach the WorldDisc, under no escort. Is this approved by your master?"

###BEGIN TRANSMISSION###
~>Route: Automata X1 Omicron Blu - Angelus Mainframe -
:
{Good evening Emperor.}
{Authorization request granted.}
{Request to enter Trium space granted, with duplicate transmission sent to}
{Trium DefenseNet.}
{Enter Trium space uncloaked and with weapons powered down. Angelus}
{will provide escort with the ship Intermittant Thought (http://www.silentrequiem.net/angelus/alliance.html).}
:
~>Route closed
###END TRANSMISSION###


---
http://www.silentrequiem.net/littlexan.jpg (http://www.silentrequiem.net/angelus)
Automata X1
First Among Equals

---Post deleted by NationStates Moderators---

Laz thought for a few seconds, before replying-

"The Best Pilot in all of Brittania......You better get upgradin' cause I'd quite fancy being the greatest pilot ever, do it."

Templman slapped Laz on the back heartily, before turning back to face Xanone.

"We could offer you a Uranium Mine, we could offer you Steel and other Metals....though our natural resources are mainly in the form of oil, Nickel & Uranium. You may choose which suits you ideally."

---Post deleted by NationStates Moderators---

The shuttle Imperial Pride exits hyperspace and deactivates its cloaking device.

"WorldDisc, this is the Imperial Pride of GSED. You know our cargo."

###BEGIN TRANSMISSION###
~>Route: Docking Control - Angelus Mainframe - Imperial Pride
:
{Acknowleged. Proceed to dock .045, where you will be met by Omicron Blu.}
:
~>Route closed
###END TRANSMISSION###


~*~

As the shuttle draws near to the Disc, the tractor beams lance out to gently guide her in.

As she settles down onto her berth, two gravdiscs descend from the ceiling, one carrying a detatchment of 4 Guardian units, the other carrying the regal form of Omicron Blu.

They land, and she floats over to wait at the airlock entrance.

---Post deleted by NationStates Moderators---

She smiles slightly and nods. The safety of Our guests is one of Our primary concerns, especially when they are heads of state. We hope that this trip of yours will prove to be a vacation for both of you.

She turns and floats onto one of the discs, and motions for them to join her on it. Please, follow me. I will show you to your quarters. After you have freshened up a bit, we shall meet for lunch in the Imperial Gardens.

The discs lift into the air, and the view of the large dock is laid out beneath them. Is there anything that I can provide that might make your stay more comfortable?

---Post deleted by NationStates Moderators---

The discs land within the Central Hub, and Blu leads them through the myriads of people. We do not try to isolate Ourselves from the non-Angelans that live here. Of course, there are Angelans that have never been here, but that is only because of duty.

She points out the incredibly diverse automata that also fill the area. Xanone and myelf are, of course, the most complex automata/replicant to date, but there are several other Angelans that have chosen to go a more humaniform way.

They continue on, passing up a wide set of stairs. At the top, the crowds are much less dense, and the organics here are wearing a much better style of dress. We are now entering into the area set aside for visiting dignitaries. Of course, anyone can still come here regardless of station, but there simply is not much to do in here.

The Imperial Gardens is open to the public, but a certain level of decorum must be observed, and not many of the underclass wish to try. We do not understand the class divisions as you do, and We have tried to make everything as fair and equal as possible.

She shrugs. Angelans can shift avatars as easily as you can change clothing, so one of Us might be taking a shift as a maintenance controller, and then shift into a new avatar and be a maitre'd in one of the high-class resturants. We wished to facilitate that by making the prices equivalent in all resturants, and paying every worker here the same, regardless of their job.

They pass through the main entrance, and a large pagoda-style front faces them. Blu leads them through into a wonderfully-decorated narthex, and she motions to the neat row of shoes. Please, remove your shoes.

---Post deleted by NationStates Moderators---

Laz thought for a few seconds, before replying-

"The Best Pilot in all of Brittania......You better get upgradin' cause I'd quite fancy being the greatest pilot ever, do it."

Templman slapped Laz on the back heartily, before turning back to face Xanone.

"We could offer you a Uranium Mine, we could offer you Steel and other Metals....though our natural resources are mainly in the form of oil, Nickel & Uranium. You may choose which suits you ideally."

Blu nods. Come, We must go to sickbay, so We can augment you.

She leads them off, and moves over to float beside Templeman. We prefer an iron mine, if that is acceptable.

"Augment......how cool is that?" enthused Laz.

Templeman nodded, and laughed with his friend, "Come on, best not to keep the busy Angelans waiting.." he added sarcastically.

"An Iron mine will be yours. I'd say its more than possible you might be granted the rights to mine a whole island. As you know Brittania is an Island Collection, and their are many deposits of the metal on the smaller, uninhabited islands that we do not have the ability to access, you on the other hand most likely do......The Southern Provinces are a place such as this that spring to mind."-Templeman finished, as he walked towards the Sickbay.

Emperor Steinberg and Pedro remove their shoes and place them on the rack.

"Fascinating. But there's something I don't understand. How did you come into existence in the first place? Also, how do you reproduce?"

Blu nods, and leads them into the dining area.

The floors are covered in fine bamboo matting, and each wall holds a beautiful wall scroll of exquisite design. The tables are all low and black-lacquered, and each cushion is of silk. Several people are already there, quietly eating different forms of Japanese cuisine. A musician sits in the corner, playing a soft song on an unusual instrument.

Blu floats over to an empty table, and reclines on the cushion. We are a product of the ancient Caelistis Gens Empire. There was a need for a construct to assist the human pilots/commanders of the CGE cruisers, and the X-series was developed for that purpose.

When they became sentient, We were given complete control over the CGE Armada, and the Emperor asked Us to stay on as allies of the CGE. We, of course, agreed, and several hundred years of peace ensued.

To make a long story short, treason sparked a massive civil war, and Angelus left into deep space as to save human lives. We existed outside of the Solar System for almost 400 years, finally returning when We noticed 010 and Unity were accepted among a substantially large group of organic life.

She smiles slightly. How We reproduce is a carefully guarded secret, Emperator. We have shared it with no one.

ooc: It is almost a religion, the creation of another Angelan. The rituals envolved are very spiritualistic, and no non-Angelan has ever seen them, not even the remnants of the CGE.

---Post deleted by NationStates Moderators---

"An Iron mine will be yours. I'd say its more than possible you might be granted the rights to mine a whole island. As you know Brittania is an Island Collection, and their are many deposits of the metal on the smaller, uninhabited islands that we do not have the ability to access, you on the other hand most likely do......The Southern Provinces are a place such as this that spring to mind."-Templeman finished, as he walked towards the Sickbay.

She leads them into a gravlift, and they lift upwards towards sickbay.

That sounds excellent, Mr. Templeman. We would gladly share with you a percentage of the resulting ore.

The Super Star Destroyer Iron Fist approaches outside the Truim area. A shuttle leaves the Capital cruiser.

"This is the shuttle Falcona, requesting permission to dock. we're carrying an Imperial Navy delegate."

OOC: Poor Angelus, going to have to RP with 12,000 people at once the way things are going.....)

Templeman continued walking towards sickbay. Laz wore the grin he always did when excited by something. As they arrived before the entrance, Templeman turned to the Representitive of the WorldDisc.

"We do not wish to overstay our welcome, we will gladly depart once the Endevour is fit for flight, and Laz has recovered from the procedure."

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


"She's almost fourteen hours overdue now sir."

Colin Samuel, the Controller on duty within Brittanian Mission Control frowned slightly.

"What was the last data stream?"

"Have been granted permission to board WorldDisc, are approaching on thrusters only. Estimated Departure Time Unknown. Will set Computer for Auto-Transmission at next report date."

"The Endevour should have automatically reported back."

"I understand that sir, however the Endevour's Locator beacon is no longer active. The WorldDisc's structure might be blocking it, but it has been transmitting perfectly since they arrived."

"Curious. Well we will do nothing further until twenty four hours have passed."

The Super Star Destroyer Iron Fist approahes the area. A shuttle leaves the Capital cruiser.

"This is the shuttle Falcona, requesting permission to dock. we're carrying an Imperial Navy delegate."

ooc: I request that you rewrite this. Triumverate defense would not be very happy if a Super Star Destroyer suddenly popped up in the middle of their space unannounced.

---Post deleted by NationStates Moderators---

ooc: I request that you rewrite this. Triumverate defense would not be very happy if a Super Star Destroyer suddenly popped up in the middle of their space unannounced.

I rewrote it... it's outside of the area.

---Post deleted by NationStates Moderators---

Not at all. The WorldDisc is large, and We do not mind a few more people staying on. However, I can understand your desire to get back to your people.

They enter sickbay, and M2 immediately walks over to them. "Well, more augmentation, eh? Sure, come right this way." He grins. "This won't hurt a bit!"

ooc: M2 is essentially the Doctor from Star Trek Voyager.

---Post deleted by NationStates Moderators---

The Super Star Destroyer Iron Fist approaches outside the Truim area. A shuttle leaves the Capital cruiser.

"This is the shuttle Falcona, requesting permission to dock. we're carrying an Imperial Navy delegate."

###BEGIN TRANSMISSION###
~>Route: Docking Control - Angelus Mainframe - Falcona
:
{Permission Granted. Proceed to dock .045}
:
~>Route closed
###END TRANSMISSION###

OOC: Terrible bedside manner, obsolete Interface, primitive personality subroutines...your the Mk I aren't you?- Mk II Holodocter :P)

Laz disappeared with the Angelus Physician.

Templeman nodded, "When one of our Starships is gone for any length of time, its readily apparent. Their are only two other ships like the Endevour- The Discovery & The Horizon. The Horizen is still returning from Neptunian Orbit, she's been travelling home for nearly two months now, and we don't expect her back for up to three months more."

"The Discovery took heavy damage from a micro-meteor storm, and shes in drydock."

"That leaves us, the Endevour to continue Brittanian presence in space. I can't tell you how hard its been to convince the majority of the Parliment not to look into offensive space based weapons. We've come under direct attack twice, with no means of defence or retaliation, and every time it happens, we lose credibility. I would hate to see weaponry appear on our vessels, but it seems inevitable."

The Emperor nods his head in amazement and understanding, with the burning question of how Angelans reproduce still floating around in his head.

"Fascinating. Very fascinating. Another question: What makes you different from us humans, besides the fact that you look different?"

We are EA. Electronic Awarenesses. We are machine-made, Machine-born. We are human in form only, and though We strive for equality, We are not human, and We never will be.

There are other things, but again, it merges with the secrecy of Our race, and I cannot speak of it.

ooc: Angelans are entities of pure energy.

:::incoming request to Trium defense forces from Admiral Devon Talethian aboard the Teeming Animosity :::

Permission to enter Trium space requested for the Dominion ships Far Star, Affectionate Sky, and Teeming Animosity.

Destination - WorldDisc. Purpose - First Dominion civilian and military transport for training and population of granted Dominion sectors.

We await instruction.

::: end message :::

ooc: you'll have to bear with me - I'm sure you've noticed military bits are not my strong suit. *grin*

(DP Deleted)

###BEGIN TRANSMISSION###
~>Route: Docking Control - Angelus Mainframe - Teeming Animosity
:
{Permission granted, proceed to dock .045}
{Welcome home, L13. Protocols rerouted to grant you full access to gravdisc Control.}
:
~>Route closed
###END TRANSMISSION###

OOC: Terrible bedside manner, obsolete Interface, primitive personality subroutines...your the Mk I aren't you?- Mk II Holodocter :P)

ooc: Emtoo is a prick. *grin* He's got the standard personality subroutines that all the other Angelans have, but he just enjoys being an asshole. He's damn good, though, and he takes good care of his patients.

Laz disappeared with the Angelus Physician.

Templeman nodded, "When one of our Starships is gone for any length of time, its readily apparent. Their are only two other ships like the Endevour- The Discovery & The Horizon. The Horizen is still returning from Neptunian Orbit, she's been travelling home for nearly two months now, and we don't expect her back for up to three months more."

"The Discovery took heavy damage from a micro-meteor storm, and shes in drydock."

"That leaves us, the Endevour to continue Brittanian presence in space. I can't tell you how hard its been to convince the majority of the Parliment not to look into offensive space based weapons. We've come under direct attack twice, with no means of defence or retaliation, and every time it happens, we lose credibility. I would hate to see weaponry appear on our vessels, but it seems inevitable."

Blu nods, understanding. We would like to send one of Our MotherShips back with you, as a sign of Our willingness to assist in the defense of EB. It would also get you back to Earth MUCH faster than you would, even with the serious upgrade to the Endeavour.

We will be sending the Misguided Hatred (http://www.silentrequiem.net/angelus/fallen.html) with you. The Endeavour can simply ride along in it's dock, and pop out when you get back to EB.

That reminds me, do you wish a sentient construct/mind assigned to the Endeavour, or would a non-sentient construct work? We suggest assigning one of the G-series, as it would help Mr. Bette in piloting, but it is really up to you.

ooc: Ok, I think I caught everyone. If I missed something, please let me know.

Docking permission sent to TIN and DLN, and conversation continued with TSE and EB. That is it, right?

::: begin transmission :::

Acknowledged - initiating docking prodeedures.
We look forward to seeing our new home.

::: end transmission :::

The ship flies in and lets the beams do the rest, L13 handling the functions smoothly.

Devon Talethian, on board, looks on with a sense of awe.

Good god, how did she manage to make such an alliance? And here I thought she'd been wasting most of her time party-hopping.

He made a mental note not to underestimate her so again.

Two gravdiscs descend outside of the TA, landing quietly before the airlock. The first one carries the new avatar of L13, and the other holds 4 Guardian Units.

As soon as the ship comes to a complete stop, and all of the shutdown routines are completed or set to auto, L13 "yawns", and transferrs his essense to the spidercarrier.

# Welcome home, L13. How was your stay in the Dominion?
> Not bad. Good people. Not many people wanna talk to a sentient ship, though.
> I was greatful for my connection to You/Us.

# Such is the way with organic interaction.

Talethian looks around uncertainly, though very much anticipating the new experiences.

"So this is the WorldDisc ... even more impressive than we'd been led to believe." he says, nodding in satisfaction.

"I ah ... thank you for the safe trip, L13 ... forgive me, I am ... unused to 'inorganic' interactions, I'm afraid. Something I shall have to remedy."

He was still stumbling over the fact that these beings were as Nathicana had described - fully sentient beings, not just a technological tool as he was used to. This was all going to be quite the leap forward for most of the Dominion group. All things considered, he thought it would go quite well.

<start>

...

The People's Republic of Hugin is very interested in establishing relations with the nation of Angelus, and all those on the WorldDisc. We wish to send a diplomatic party, conisiting of 12 members, to the WorldDisc. We plan to use our two ships, the Mazer Rackham and the Guybrush Threepwood for transoprtation. We hope that this will not present any problems.

Sincerely,
~
http://images.google.com/images?q=tbn:DH9dKIw3VQ4C:www.tvtome.com/images/people/1/3/71-8461.jpg
Alrich Oppsdal, Minister of Foregin Affairs

http://images.google.com/images?q=tbn:pK7t24FiL3AC:www.oresund.com/facts/goranpersson.jpg
Per Edvin Fälting, Statsråd (Utlänsk)

###BEGIN TRANSMISSION###
~>Route: Omicron Blu - Angelus Mainframe - Hugin
:
{Though We have no problem with you visiting Our disc, We suggest that you attain}
{permission from Triumverate Defense before flying your ships into Triumverate}
{space. Sky Marshal Starwind, of Berserker, is the person you need to direct}
{communications to.}
:
~>Route closed
###END TRANSMISSION###

---
http://www.silentrequiem.net/littleblu.jpg (http://www.silentrequiem.net/angelus)
Automata Omicron Blu
Speaker of the Dominion

Talethian looks around uncertainly, though very much anticipating the new experiences.

"So this is the WorldDisc ... even more impressive than we'd been led to believe." he says, nodding in satisfaction.

"I ah ... thank you for the safe trip, L13 ... forgive me, I am ... unused to 'inorganic' interactions, I'm afraid. Something I shall have to remedy."

He was still stumbling over the fact that these beings were as Nathicana had described - fully sentient beings, not just a technological tool as he was used to. This was all going to be quite the leap forward for most of the Dominion group. All things considered, he thought it would go quite well.

L13 activates his hologram, and smiles at Talethian.

(hologram: The spidercarrier is a spiderlike machine without a head or abdomen. Situated above the "thorax" is a small disclike object, encased in a dome, that looks exactly like the WorldDisc from space. When the Construct/Mind is talking with organics, they project a holographic image of a head within the dome above the disc. The head is generally the same species as the person the construct/mind is speaking with, and of whichever gender it chooses.)

You will become better with time. It is a strange and different thing for all of us. I have only been active since after We left the Caelistis Gens Empire, and so I have had no prior organic interaction. In fact, until I was assigned the task of piloting the Teeming Animosity, I had had no interaction whatsoever.

It comes in time, my friend, it comes in time.

Well, let me show you to where your people will be staying. I would also like to know what The Dominion wants by way of ships. We can punch out quite a few of them in a relatively short amount of time, but unless We know what you want....

The hologram seems to shrug, and then L13 clicks over to climb onto one of the gravdiscs. Shall we?

Talethian is obviously fascinated with L13, and the entire experience thus far.

"I believe it will at that." he says with a smile. "By all means, lead on. I'm anxious to see whatever I can."

"As for the ships, well .. yes." he begins as they go along. "Our plans lean towards both a defense and science-exploration mode of operation, if you take my meaning. We wish to be able to contribute to the defense of our allies in times of need, but in addition, hope to increase our understanding of this vast new realm that has been opened to us. I'm told Nathicana had some contact with you on these matters - I'm certain that given that, and what you can show me, we can get matters underway in short order."

"Again, the Dominion thanks you for your kindness and generousity." he said, dipping his head slightly.

"Again, the Dominion thanks you for your kindness and generousity." he said, dipping his head slightly.

L13 nods. Excellent. Come this way.

The two discs lift off of the ground, affording Talethian the best view of the WorldDisc he has yet seen. Hundreds of ships fill the massive hanger, several of the ships even larger than the Teeming Animosity, and along the far wall is a huge crystal icecicle, resting softly on gravitational fields.

Well, let's see. You want about 10 Raptor-class ships, 10 Falchions, 5 Alliances, and 5 Revenants. That's 30 ships, plus a several fighter squadrons. Hmmmm. How about 25 Mirrors, and 25 Interceptors?

Surveying the scene, Talethian nods, eyes wide. Incredible.

"Most definitely. They're beautiful." he says with sincerity. "I think the Lady would be most pleased with such a fleet."

I cannot imagine anyone who would not be.

Excellent. Production is now commencing. We will charge you 11,263,120 tons of pure iron. We think that is a decent trade for a fleet, don't you?

The discs enter the transport tubes, whisking them rapidly through the WorldDisc. Finally, they pop out underneath the Central Hub. A huge city is spread out underneath them, small houses lining row after row of streets. Perfectly manicured trees grow from a small yard in front of each house, and there are thousands of them. The Habitats are all on several levels, mass housing units on each level. The Disc supports around 300 million organic individuals, and every one of them lives here. There are parks, and their work units, but this is their home. The Nathicani will be living on the Second Level, along with some Menelmacari, Eniqcirians, and Berserkers.

To: Dominion of Angelus
From: Eternal Noldorin Empire of Menelmacar

The Lady Sirithil informs me she would be most honored to accept your invitation of a visit to the WorldDisc. She is already in the region of Titan attending SHODAN's wedding; I am informed she will arrive at the Disc after the wedding is over. Thanks again for the invitation; we are always pleased to seek closer relations with our partners in Yut.

~Lord Turelio nos Fingolfin
Prefect of State, Menelmacar

###BEGIN TRANSMISSION###
~>Route: Automata X1 - Angelus Mainframe - Menelmacar
:
{Excellent. We await her arrival in anticipation. We have long since wished to}
{attain ties with the remaining members of the Triumverate, and Menelmacar}
{is the last.}
:
~>Route closed
###END TRANSMISSION###

---
http://www.silentrequiem.net/littlexan.jpg (http://www.silentrequiem.net/angelus)
Automata X1
First Among Equals

OOC: Terrible bedside manner, obsolete Interface, primitive personality subroutines...your the Mk I aren't you?- Mk II Holodocter :P)

ooc: Emtoo is a prick. *grin* He's got the standard personality subroutines that all the other Angelans have, but he just enjoys being an asshole. He's damn good, though, and he takes good care of his patients.

Laz disappeared with the Angelus Physician.

Templeman nodded, "When one of our Starships is gone for any length of time, its readily apparent. Their are only two other ships like the Endevour- The Discovery & The Horizon. The Horizen is still returning from Neptunian Orbit, she's been travelling home for nearly two months now, and we don't expect her back for up to three months more."

"The Discovery took heavy damage from a micro-meteor storm, and shes in drydock."

"That leaves us, the Endevour to continue Brittanian presence in space. I can't tell you how hard its been to convince the majority of the Parliment not to look into offensive space based weapons. We've come under direct attack twice, with no means of defence or retaliation, and every time it happens, we lose credibility. I would hate to see weaponry appear on our vessels, but it seems inevitable."

Blu nods, understanding. We would like to send one of Our MotherShips back with you, as a sign of Our willingness to assist in the defense of EB. It would also get you back to Earth MUCH faster than you would, even with the serious upgrade to the Endeavour.

We will be sending the Misguided Hatred (http://www.silentrequiem.net/angelus/fallen.html) with you. The Endeavour can simply ride along in it's dock, and pop out when you get back to EB.

That reminds me, do you wish a sentient construct/mind assigned to the Endeavour, or would a non-sentient construct work? We suggest assigning one of the G-series, as it would help Mr. Bette in piloting, but it is really up to you.(OOC: The Sona Rule, just a question- do your ships like Metreon gas? :P)

Templeman nodded, then considered for a second.

"Laz will always be the pilot, he's simply too much of a friend not to be. But you're offer, of a Construct for the Endevour...We're sure she has a personality, becuase you can be damned sure she complains, screeches and breaks down, but never lets you down....But I am convinced that such an offer is impossible to turn down, We would very much like the installation of a sentient construct.....Then truly the amalgamation of Brittanian & Angelian technology would be complete."

"We will of course journey with the Misguided Hatred, and it would be an honour to travel with her."

Templeman lets out a slight laugh.

"If someone had told me we would contact a space faring race, upgrade our ship and pilot twice fold, and bring one of their cruisers home to say hello, I'd have been committed to a mental hospital."

Blu grins slightly, and nods. G411 will be assigned to the Endeavour. As soon as the Doctor is finished with Laz, then We will introduce them.

A few minutes later, M2 and Laz return to them. The doctor smiles, and begins. "We gave you a full cranial augmentation, including the uplink to the Mainframe. You will be able to fully communicate with your ship, and the Construct/Mind that We have assigned to it. You will also be able to enter Angelan Cspace."

Excellent. Production is now commencing. We will charge you 11,263,120 tons of pure iron. We think that is a decent trade for a fleet, don't you?

The discs enter the transport tubes, whisking them rapidly through the WorldDisc. Finally, they pop out underneath the Central Hub. A huge city is spread out underneath them, small houses lining row after row of streets. Perfectly manicured trees grow from a small yard in front of each house, and there are thousands of them. The Habitats are all on several levels, mass housing units on each level. The Disc supports around 300 million organic individuals, and every one of them lives here. There are parks, and their work units, but this is their home. The Nathicani will be living on the Second Level, along with some Menelmacari, Eniqcirians, and Berserkers.

Talethian nods at the price, having been briefed. "Extremely fair. The first shipment should be awaiting transport."

As they travel through the tubes, he is again amazed at the efficiency of the Angelans. When they arrive at the Hub, he is even moreso.

"However did you manage such a creation?" he says, truly impressed, and not ashamed to show it. Why, our entire nation could fill this place - it's enormous! And I have to admit, I never pictured trees, nor parks, nor much of what you have here, existing on what I had envisioned as a space station." He looked around, nodding as he thought of the work that must have gone into it.

"I believe we well be quite happy here, my friend ... quite."

---Post deleted by NationStates Moderators---

"How do you feel?" asked Templeman hesitantly.

"Like Im plug and play man! whoo and I can get online and surf the Angelan Internet!" Laz replied.

"Laz, I don't think..."

"think they've got anything X rated?"

"No, no I don't." replied Templeman rolling his eyes, and laughed, turning to the Angelan.

"Tell me, this construct, does it...Pardon, she....um, does the Construct communicate verbally, does it have a recongisable personality....Is it sentient....I realise I ask alot, but our computer science does not comprehend such an advanced system, and I'd kinda like to know what to expect".

Talethian nods at the price, having been briefed. "Extremely fair. The first shipment should be awaiting transport."

As they travel through the tubes, he is again amazed at the efficiency of the Angelans. When they arrive at the Hub, he is even moreso.

"However did you manage such a creation?" he says, truly impressed, and not ashamed to show it. Why, our entire nation could fill this place - it's enormous! And I have to admit, I never pictured trees, nor parks, nor much of what you have here, existing on what I had envisioned as a space station." He looked around, nodding as he thought of the work that must have gone into it.

"I believe we well be quite happy here, my friend ... quite."

Excellent. We have transcripted three Goliath-class heavy cargo carriers to pick up and transport the iron. They should arrive in the Dominion in 2.32 hours.

If L13 could have blushed, he would have. Talethian, We have worked very hard to make the Sector as much of a home as the rest of the Disc. He smiles. I assure you, in the vastness of the Disc, only the Human Sector has any sort of organic life. In fact, would you like a tour of Our production facilities?

"How do you feel?" asked Templeman hesitantly.

"Like Im plug and play man! whoo and I can get online and surf the Angelan Internet!" Laz replied.

"Laz, I don't think..."

"think they've got anything X rated?"

"No, no I don't." replied Templeman rolling his eyes, and laughed, turning to the Angelan.

"Tell me, this construct, does it...Pardon, she....um, does the Construct communicate verbally, does it have a recongisable personality....Is it sentient....I realise I ask alot, but our computer science does not comprehend such an advanced system, and I'd kinda like to know what to expect".

Blu laughs. Actually.. I am sure that there are several Angelans with humaniform Cspace avatars that would love to expirament with you on human sexual relations. On the other hand, until you become more relaxed in the Cspace environment, you will be... uncomfortable.

ooc: http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=39512&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=300

Read up on the transition into Cspace. Kommetrez got augmented in the same way.

"Fascinating, you never cease to amaze me. Your people, or whatever, are incredible. Well, we see that you have many other visitors. Pedro and I will get some rest. Would you care to show us to our room?"

Blu smiles. There are five of me, Emperator. She nods, however, and gets up. Follow me?

She leads them out of the Imperial Gardens and takes them out through the main entranceway. Out again in the Central Hub, a single gravdisc drops down to pick them up.

They climb aboard, and minutes later they are flying through the streets of population Level 1. All of the Disc's non-Angelan residents live here, in the Population Levels. There are different styles of domicile available, depending on the size of your family. The larger your family, the larger your home. Other than that, every domicile is exactly the same.

Of course, there are slightly more opulent living quarters available for our visiting dignitaries, and each Ally has a small compound reserved for their use. She smiles slightly. However, if you were to peek into the regular domiciles, you would find that they are indeed only slightly less opulent than yours. We are an equal people, everyone is treated the same.

ooc: Click here for images (http://www.silentrequiem.net/angelus/ships.html).

Excellent. We have transcripted three Goliath-class heavy cargo carriers to pick up and transport the iron. They should arrive in the Dominion in 2.32 hours.

If L13 could have blushed, he would have. Talethian, We have worked very hard to make the Sector as much of a home as the rest of the Disc. He smiles. I assure you, in the vastness of the Disc, only the Human Sector has any sort of organic life. In fact, would you like a tour of Our production facilities?

His brows arched. "You would do me that honor?" he said, clearly suprised. No Dominion office would dare allow such close inspection of their inner workings. Truly, Nathicana did not lie when she mentioned the Angelan's lack of guile. How refreshingly ... disturbing.

He took comfort in the fact that all Dominion personnel had been briefed, and firmly warned to refrain from any activities that would take advantage of their hosts, possibly offend, or reflect badly on the Lady. This could be a touchy situation otherwise.

Like a fox in the henhouse, one would think, if not for the extreme gap in technology and understanding.

"Please, lead on. I would very much enjoy learning more, regardless of Nathicana's wishes for me to do just that." he said, smiling broadly.

Templeman winks at Laz- "We'll never get him off of the damned thing."

Turning back to the Angelan he nods, hoping that the information on the Endevour's new Construct will be as eye opening as the rest of the journey.

His brows arched. "You would do me that honor?" he said, clearly suprised. No Dominion office would dare allow such close inspection of their inner workings. Truly, Nathicana did not lie when she mentioned the Angelan's lack of guile. How refreshingly ... disturbing.

"Please, lead on. I would very much enjoy learning more, regardless of Nathicana's wishes for me to do just that." he said, smiling broadly.

L13 nods, and the disc redirects itself and flies towards the nearest transport tube. They are sucked inside, and in the shifting of light, a very faint shimmer can be seen surrounding the entire disc.

As they get further from the Human Sector, the light gets dimmer and dimmer, until finally the shimmer surrounding the disc shines with a pearly luminescense, faintly illuminating everything as they pass by.

The disc turns a corner, then another, going along a long straightaway, before going through an extremely complex series of turns. Finally, the disc shoots out over a massive empty space, the entire area cluttered with partially assembled ships. The Disc immediately slows, giving Talethian time to let the impressive view sink in.

Edit: Removing continuity mistake.

Templeman winks at Laz- "We'll never get him off of the damned thing."

Turning back to the Angelan he nods, hoping that the information on the Endevour's new Construct will be as eye opening as the rest of the journey.

Blu nods. G411 will arrive shortly. She was on assignment in the Recycling centre.

True to her word, a tall humaniform robot strides quickly into sickbay a few minutes later. The robot has definite female curves, but looks human in form only. Her face is shaped vaguely like a humans with an eyebrow ridge, cheekbones, and recessed eye sockets. However, her nose and mouth are missing, with just a smooth plate of molded steel situated on that part of her face.

She nods slightly at Laz and Templeman, and walks over to stand beside Blu. May I present Automata-Designate, G411 of the Dominion of Angelus, also known as Geforell in organic speach. She has been assigned to help your integration with the Endeavour's new systems.

Geforell, this is Commander Templeman and Pilot Bette, both of Europa Brittania.

G411 walks forward and extends her hand towards Templeman. The pleasure is all mine, Commander.

{0110 0010 0111 0101 0110 1101 0111 0000}

L13 nods, and the disc redirects itself and flies towards the nearest transport tube. They are sucked inside, and in the shifting of light, a very faint shimmer can be seen surrounding the entire disc.

As they get further from the Human Sector, the light gets dimmer and dimmer, until finally the shimmer surrounding the disc shines with a pearly luminescense, faintly illuminating everything as they pass by.

The disc turns a corner, then another, going along a long straightaway, before going through an extremely complex series of turns. Finally, the disc shoots out over a massive empty space, the entire area cluttered with partially assembled ships. The Disc immediately slows, giving Talethian time to let the impressive view sink in.


And sink in it does, though he keeps blinking in disbelief.

"Madre del dio, guardereste quello..." he murmers, eyes lighting up as he views the ships. As an Admiral, he was intimately familiar with the ocean-going sisters of these vessels. That being said, he very much looked forward to sailing the skies rather than the seas.

"Wow, how totally psyched is this?" Laz added cheerfully. "I'm totally listening to millions of people. Here Chris, I can hear some of the Agelans talking....there almost as clever as you!"

"Uh, sure Laz." replied Templeman. Turning to G411, he extends his hand.

"The pleasure is all..." -he looks to Laz-" Mine....its all mine."

"So, will you be travelling with us on a permanent basis...I am yet to understand much about the assignment of a construct to my ship, and how this works....our most advanced computers are the ones that were currently installed on the Endevour, which to you is probably about as technologically advanced as a calculator and as about intelligent as Laz here."

"Hey, Im CyberPlugged now man!"

"CyberIdiot more like." Chris muttered under his breath."

"Madre del dio, guardereste quello..." he murmers, eyes lighting up as he views the ships. As an Admiral, he was intimately familiar with the ocean-going sisters of these vessels. That being said, he very much looked forward to sailing the skies rather than the seas.

L13 grins to himself, and the disc shoots in closer, flying right into the open hull of a massive Raptor. Two huge arms are moving swiftly back and forth along a long line, each lightning-fast pass laying down another thin layer of steel, slowly building the ship layer by layer.

We build Our ships from the ground up. We take several thousand tons of raw iron, and put it together to form this. Our ships have no seams, no bolts, no welded joints. Everything is molecularly bound together, so it is one single pieace of metal.

They move out and up, just in time to see a Falchion launch out into space. Huge doors iris open, and the massive ship simply floats out. Small jets maneuver it away from the Disc, and suddenly its ion drives kick into gear, and the huge ship rockets away from the Disc.

Our ships leave here fully assembled. Weapons, electronics, everything. Each construct/mind that will be assigned to the ship oversees its construction, so they very literally know the ships from the ground up.

"CyberIdiot more like." Chris muttered under his breath."

Blu smiles and the feed from the Mainframe cuts out, leaving Laz stranded in realspace. She turns to Templeman. Geeforell will run all of your systems, and will be the only computer on the ship. Your computer systems have been carefully packaged and are resting in the cargo hold.

G411 nods. We have completely updated your ships, rebuilt everything. The wiring, the computer system, drives, armor, everything. We were going to install a weapons system, but Blu would not allow it. She shrugs. I would prefer a weapon or two, but I guess travelling with the Hatred will be good enough.

"I never dreamed such a thing possible." he replies softly, his eyes alight as the Falchion leaves dock.

"I ah ... the flying of these ships." he began. "When may we begin recieving the modifications that were discussed? I know myself, and others, are most anxious to begin our training."

He carefully continued, in true Dominion style, hoping for some info. "I have suspected that Nathicana has some similar arrangement with her private craft, being of Trium design, though she has been characteristically close-mouthed on the subject."

Lady Nathicana's craft are flown by Our construct/minds.

The training of your people will begin as soon as you like. We should point out that though your pilots will be working in conjunction with the construct/minds, they will lose control in times of extreme duress. We assure you, the response time of an Angelan construct/mind is much higher than a human's. We are almost as interested in keeping your ships in flight as you are.

Indeed ... then perhaps I was mistaken in my assumptions ... he pondered.

"I don't believe there will be any problem with that arrangement." he assured L13. Those who have volunteered to undergo the augmentations have been briefed and fully understand and approve. I believe you'll find nearly all would prefer the full augments, as discussed."

He continued to watch, intrigued, as ships were layered together.

"I won't lie to you ... trust is not usually a strong point of Dominion life. However in this case, the benefits far outweigh the costs, and as you say, it is a mutual interest in keeping our ships out of danger."

---Post deleted by NationStates Moderators---

"I won't lie to you ... trust is not usually a strong point of Dominion life. However in this case, the benefits far outweigh the costs, and as you say, it is a mutual interest in keeping our ships out of danger."

Trust is an important issue with Us.

L13 seems very withdrawn for a few moments, contemplative.

Finally, he looks away from the scene and turns to Talethian. Come, it is time for you to get Augemented, as well as meet Omicron Blu, Our Speaker.

The disc turns and flashes upwards, moving with incredible speed through the tunnels back towards the Human Sector. Mere moments pass, and they are sliding to a halt in the Central Hub.

"Once again, you have amazed me, Blu.

Ah, these are some very nice living quarters. We couldn't thank you more for your hospitality. Well, we will get some rest now. Thank you again, and we'll see you later."

Thank you, Emperator. I shall leave you now. When you wish to speak with me, or if you wish anything, simply touch that panel and speak into the air. A message shall be sent to the appropriate location.

With that, and a short bow, Blu floats out of the house, and takes off through the air towards the Transportation Tubes.

Trust is an important issue with Us.

L13 seems very withdrawn for a few moments, contemplative.

Finally, he looks away from the scene and turns to Talethian. Come, it is time for you to get Augemented, as well as meet Omicron Blu, Our Speaker.

The disc turns and flashes upwards, moving with incredible speed through the tunnels back towards the Human Sector. Mere moments pass, and they are sliding to a halt in the Central Hub.

Talethian felt a rush of adrenaline as L13 spoke. Enjoying the rush of the transport, he stepped off the disc confidently, looking around and taking in the new environment.

The augments ... and soon, the stars. Something I never hoped to attain. he thought in expectation.

"I commend you on your outstanding achievements here." he said to L13. "I can see the Lady made a very wise choice in allies, despite the grumblings of some rather unenlightened persons."

Meanwhile out in the depths of space, near the outer fringes of the Galaxy, a lone Terran Battleship on a routen recon misson recieves a strange transmission.

Should we respond to the message sir.

No send a message to Cradel 001 that we report no strange disturbances in this sector.

Meanwhile out in the depths of space, near the outer fringes of the Galaxy, a lone Terran Battleship on a routen recon misson recieves a strange transmission.

Should we respond to the message sir.

No send a message to Cradel 001 that we report no strange disturbances in this sector.

ooc: *ponders how to respond to this*

Talethian felt a rush of adrenaline as L13 spoke. Enjoying the rush of the transport, he stepped off the disc confidently, looking around and taking in the new environment.

The augments ... and soon, the stars. Something I never hoped to attain. he thought in expectation.

"I commend you on your outstanding achievements here." he said to L13. "I can see the Lady made a very wise choice in allies, despite the grumblings of some rather unenlightened persons."

Thank you. We have worked hard. L13 leads on, taking Talethian to the gravlifts, and leading him into the bay.

A tall woman, floating in mid air, turns as they come in, and casts both of them an odd look. Hello, L13. Welcome back to the WorldDisc. And you are...?

This, at least, he had been briefed on. Making a crisp military bow, he steps forward, hand extended.

"Admiral Devon Talethian, Dominion Minister of Defense, my Lady Omicron Blu." he said formally. "The Dread Lady Nathicana sends her regards, and deepest thanks for your gracious hospitality and aid."

This, at least, he had been briefed on. Making a crisp military bow, he steps forward, hand extended.

"Admiral Devon Talethian, Dominion Minister of Defense, my Lady Omicron Blu." he said formally. "The Dread Lady Nathicana sends her regards, and deepest thanks for your gracious hospitality and aid."

She touches his hand and bows slightly. Pleasure to meet you, Admiral. You, of course, already know who I am. She turns and motions towards the other individuals.

This is Commander Christopher Templeman, and Pilot Laz Bette, of Europa Brittania. This is Geforell, of the Dominion of Angelus. She pauses as handshakes and greetings go around. Well, Admiral, I thank your lady for her regards, and I wish her the same. I understand that you will be here with Us for a little bit?

He greets the others in turn, exchanging brief pleasantries.

"I will pass that on, my Lady." he says, nodding respectfully. "And yes. Nathicana has seen fit to allow me to lead the offworld Dominion colony, until such time as she finds a suitable Minister to oversee it. I have put in a request to remain, however, and oversee the fleet. I believe that given the advances in technology, it should not interfere with my own Ministry obligations."

She nods, and looks to L13.

# Thank you. You may see to other duties now.
> Acknowledged.

L13 nods to Talethian. I shall be back at the ship, running diagnostics. Automata-Designate Omicron Blu can take care of you from now on.

He turns, and clicks off.

Blu smiles at Talethian. We will be glad to have you. Now, do you wish to be Augmented?

"I look forward to working with you, L13." he says, nodding in return. "Thank you for the safe trip."

In response to Blu's query, his eyes brighten. "I've never been more ready, my Lady." he assures her.

Templeman nodded, exchanging his own pleasentries with the others present. Turning to Laz he remarked-

"What do you think Doctor Veron will think when we return to earth with his precious computer systems in a box?"

"He'll probably pretend he invented the Angelan systems." replied Laz.

Chris smiled, and turned to the Angelan representitive.

"We thank you and your leader for allowing us this stay, and your assistance is greatly appreciated. With your blessing perhaps we shall travel here once again. Once your Mine is established you may have your own ships pick up the ore, or perhaps you would allow us to take it to you ourselves? Your Vessel is welcome to remain with us as long as is required or wished by yourselves."


(OOC: May I ask what some of the Upgrades other than the new Computer systems are? just so I know what to take into account as far as higher speeds and the such go.)

(OOC: May I ask what some of the Upgrades other than the new Computer systems are? just so I know what to take into account as far as higher speeds and the such go.)

ooc: Well, with the assignment of G411 on the Endeavor, you sortof have access to every Angelan program ever. That includes sublight and FTlight mapping, more efficient life support, more efficient fuel consumption, more efficient everything. You can communicate instantly with the WorldDisc via null-wave transponder, and an extra NWT has been placed in cargo for use back home.

Under normal iondrive speed, you would get home in about a month. (pretty damn fast). Your armor plating can take multiple direct blasts without destroying your vessal, and as for maneuverability... Think F14, with a space shuttle.

Gravetic drives were installed to allow for in-atmosphere flight, and a more comfortable landing.

That should be about it.

Oh, the pilot's interface is now a simple chair, and all of the piloting is done in Cspace. If that is not wanted, a tactile-holographic pilot's station comes to life around the pilot's seat at a command.

Furthermore, are you planning on starting a thread with our starship going with you back home? I would love to interact with an earth-based nation ON EARTH for once.

IC:

Blu purses her lips. We shall pick up the ore, as it would be faster that way. The materials required to begin the mining facility are included upon the Misguided Hatred.

It would seem we are not the only nation technologically behind that the Angelans have graced with their aid. And a mine? I would imagine the vastness of space would offer enormous opportunities for such. If we could find the proper planet, asteroid, moon or the like, we'd have a ready supply of payment to increase our fleet. I think the science ministry is about to be looked on extremely well by Nathicana.

"Geforell," he said inquiringly as the two gentlemen spoke, following their conversation closely. "A different designation name type, yes? If I may ask, are your duties here similar to L13, or of a more diplomatic sort?"

(OOC:It shall be done. keep an eye on the forum, im going to post it in the next little while)

"Geforell," he said inquiringly as the two gentlemen spoke, following their conversation closely. "A different designation name type, yes? If I may ask, are your duties here similar to L13, or of a more diplomatic sort?"

The automata swivvles and loots towards Telathian. Actually, I am Automata Designate G411, and L13 can also be called Ellurteen. These are Our names when in common talk with non-Angelans. The designate is oftentimes not recieved well, and so the designate-name was put into use by the X/Xan-series.

As for my duties? They are similar to Ellurteen's, however, the L-series are of a slightly more complex matrix than the G-series. His are of a higher function, as Omicron Blu's function is higher than his. I am a pilot, and...

If the steel of the robot could blush, it would have.

an expirament in human sexuality.

A slight arching of his brow is all that gave away his suprise at that, his training kicking in. He was rather intrigued, but unsure of how to properly proceed.

Human sexuality? That would be quite the experience. he pondered.

"Truly? Yet another suprise. Please, whichever manner you wish to be referred to, it will cause we Dominion folk little discomfort. As this is an entirely new experience, we're learning as we go." he said, smiling pleasantly. "Might I ask if I might be working with you in the future?" His voice took on a hopeful tone. "Or have you been assigned to assist these fine gentlemen here?"

"Truly? Yet another suprise. Please, whichever manner you wish to be referred to, it will cause we Dominion folk little discomfort. As this is an entirely new experience, we're learning as we go." he said, smiling pleasantly. "Might I ask if I might be working with you in the future?" His voice took on a hopeful tone. "Or have you been assigned to assist these fine gentlemen here?"

G411 shakes her head. There are others like me, Admiral. If you ask Ms. Blu, she could probably assign one to assist you. As for me, I am working with the gentlemen from Europa Brittania. I shall be the pilot program for their retrofitted shuttle.

She shrugs. As for Our names? Call Us what you will. We respond to either the Designate, or the Designate-name.

Now it is his turn to look flustered.

"I ah ..." he clears his throat. "We are simply pleased to be working with you and your people." he says.

Lord, was it that obvious? he grimaces inwardly.

"I'll remember that, Geforell, thank you."

The two men from Europa Brittania leave, and G411 follows them out.

Blu, however, turns to Talethian and nods as 12 other Nathicani are lead into the sickbay by another spidercarrier.

"Great. More work." The doctor sighs and sets down the instrument he was holding, and he walks over to the Nathicani, in over 300 different sickbays all over the Disc. "Ok, everyone. You are all gonna get Augmented. We have two types of Augments, which one do you want?"

He proceeds to explain the difference between the two, and Blu leans over to whisper to Talethian. You are a part of this group, so decide now.

To a man, all the Dominion folk opt for the full augment, and Talethian is no different.

"I wish to have the full augmentation, my Lady. No doubt about that." he says with a smile, looking around the facility with interest.

"Our people have been briefed, and have most likely already made their decision for when their turn comes." he assured her.

"Excellent!" The doctor rubs his hands together, and the brief image of a crazed Dr. Frankenstein comes to all of their minds. Then, the doctor is once again just the balding, middle-aged man in a dark green uniform.

http://www.trek47.com/voyager/images/char6e.jpg

"Well, come this way. I haven't got all day." The doctor picks up a small instrument from a table and leads them around the corner into surgical. A long row of 13 tables are there, each made of smooth steel. A small cushion is placed for the head, and an odd-looking machine is attached to the table at head-level.

"Now, please, everyone take off your hats if you have them, and lay down on the tables. You are all going to get the full Augment, and that means you will all be unconscious for about thirty-five minutes. Any questions?"

Talethian did as instructed, anxious to get the process finished so he could get to training.

"Please, Doctor, proceed."

---Post deleted by NationStates Moderators---

Talethian did as instructed, anxious to get the process finished so he could get to training.

"Please, Doctor, proceed."

M2 nods, and he touches a panel on the wall. "Well, goodnight everyone... Sweet dreams!" He chuckles slightly to himself, and everyone is instantly asleep.

~*~

As they come to, the first thing they are acutely aware of is the soft whispers playing through the back of their minds. Like a sea of voices running through their skulls. As they tried to understand it, bits and pieces of conversation would flicker upwards towards comprehension. Mostly the odd stream-of-consciousness speedchatter of the Angelans, but every so often a snippet of a broadcast, or a non-angelan speaking with another, comes through.

"Well, hello again sleeping beauties. Enjoy your nap?"

"Blu, we are almost ready to leave. But before we do, we would like to check up on the 100 Sean Imperials (ooc: 98 humans, 2 elves) living on the WorldDisc, just to make sure they're happy."

A few minutes pass, and Omicron Blu floats in through the doorway. Of course, Emperator. Did you have a nice rest?

She turns and leads them out into the small courtyard, and onto the gravdisc waiting for them. It lifts easily into the air and soars down the streets towards the Sean enclave. You can always get here on your own by requesting a gravdisc. Controlling one by yourself would be impossible, but We can send a non-sentient construct to assist you. Merely tell it where you want to go, and it will take you there.

As they come to, the first thing they are acutely aware of is the soft whispers playing through the back of their minds. Like a sea of voices running through their skulls. As they tried to understand it, bits and pieces of conversation would flicker upwards towards comprehension. Mostly the odd stream-of-consciousness speedchatter of the Angelans, but every so often a snippet of a broadcast, or a non-angelan speaking with another, comes through.

"Well, hello again sleeping beauties. Enjoy your nap?"

Throughout the rooms, Dominion residents sit up, and contemplate wonderingly at the new sensations, those that are together, chatting excitedly about it.

Talethian tilts his head, as if that would help clear some of the quiet chatter, his eyes widening, and a smile creeping onto his face.

"And we can communicate with anyone on the system?" he asks the doctor.

"And we can communicate with anyone on the system?" he asks the doctor.

"Well, yeah. That is kind of what a "collective mind" Augment does. Or were you not briefed on that?

How else did you think you were going to communicate with your Construct/Mind counterpart? Via sign language?" The doctor rolls his eyes, and then examines Talethian's head. "The implant seems to be working perfectly, and your silly organic body is not rejecting it. You are all set to go." He sighs, and several Nathicani doctors begin examining everyone else.

After a few minutes, M2 walks to the front ofthe room and claps his hands for attention. "Ok everyone! You all check out, no harm done. Blu will take you to your taining centre, and there you will learn how to use your Augment. If you have any problems, I do not want you running to me, but there really is no one else, now is there?"

He grins, and then winks out.

Blu frowns, her left arm crossed underneath her brests, her right elbow resting on her left hand, and her right index finger is tapping her chin. Note to self, have changes made on the M-series personality matrix.

She sighs and walks out, motioning for Talethian to follow her. They step back onto the gravdisc, and Blu guides it in silence to the training facilities located not far from the sickbay.

They enter into a huge auditorium capable of seating thousands. Blu glides down the aisle and ascends the steps to the stage, Talethian right behind her. I will address the trainees first, and then you shall. I will take over again, and we will begin our exercises.

They only have to wait for a short while before the massive auditorium fills with Nathicani. After a few minutes to make sure everyone was there, Omicron Blu steps forward and addresses the crowd.

I am sure all of you already know, but my name is Automata-Designate Omicron Blu, Speaker of the Dominion of Angelus. You may simply call me 'Speaker', 'Omicron Blu', or simply 'Miss Blu'. If I find out any of you are calling me Omi, I am going to be rather upset.

I will be teaching you, in conjunction with several other Automata, how to not only use your Augment to its best capabilities, but to how to intigrate with Angelan systems. This includes a short course on Angelan history, and cross-species interaction.

Before we begin, Admiral Talethian has a few words.

She motions to the Admiral, and then floats off to the side.

{0110 0010 0111 0101 0110 1101 0111 0000}

---Post deleted by NationStates Moderators---

What do my people do in a regular day on the WorldDisc?

ooc:

They live. The Human Sector is pretty much run by the people that live there. Everyone works in something, either it is assisting the Angelans with atmospheric control, assist the Guardian Units with security, run the resturants, the entertainment district, everything. There is even a judicial court, with lawyers and jury, with an Angelan construct/mind acting as judge.

There are also gardeners, artists, filmmakers, actors/actresses, scientists, doctors, playwrites. It is essentially the same as any organic town on Earth. Possibly the most efficiently-run town in the galaxy, but a town nonetheless.

The Imperials mostly assist with security and medical. Several of them have chosen to be Augmented, and are monitoring the security systems along with the Angelans. One industrious worker has started up a small theatre in the entertainment district that has done quite well.

Before we begin, Admiral Talethian has a few words.

She motions to the Admiral, and then floats off to the side.

Stepping forward, he clears his throat and straightens his uniform with a sharp tug.

"Citizens of the Dominion of the Dread Lady, this is indeed a day to be noted. You are the first, those chosen to take part in our greatest achievement, thanks to the Angelans," he nods respectfully to Omicron Blu.

"You represent your nation here, and by your words and deeds will our nation be judged. I expect all of you to be on your best behaviour, and to treat our hosts, and indeed your fellow residents of the WorldDisc with the equality and respect you would a fellow citizen of the Dominion."

"I wish to thank the leaders of Angelus, as does the Lady, for their gracious help and support. May our peoples work seemlessly in conjunction for the good of the nation, and the alliance."

Here, he bowed respectfully to Omicron Blu, and said "To our hosts," and applauded, followed immediately by the Nathicani citizens rising to their feet and joining him. And with that, he stepped back as the applause slowly subsided.

Blu floats up to hover at the front of the stage. Now. Throughout the next couple of weeks, I am going to be leading you through an intense series of training excersizes. You are going to be pushed to the absolute limit, and during the majority of your training, you are going to hate me with a passion.

Now that is ok, because there is positively JACK SHIT you can do about it, so suck it up and deal with it. You are all adults, and you are all capable of acting like ones.

She puts her hands on her hips, and almost subconsciously strikes a drill sergant pose... almost.

Ok, boys and girls, here is your first lesson.

She looks at every single one of them, and suddenly her voice translates directly into their minds. Focus is the single most important thing you will ever possibly learn about your minds. When you learn that technique, you can go anywhere you want, do anything you think, be anyone who you dream.

She grins and leaves their minds. Now, none of you will ever be able to do what I just did. However, you will learn how to focus on a single individual, no matter where they are, and be able to communicate with them. I want you all to try, with the person on your left. If you are at the end of the row, focus on the person directly behind you. Jarred Barton, she says, pointing to the person in the far left, all the way in the back. You focus on reaching me.

---Post deleted by NationStates Moderators---

Talethian smiles proudly. This was something he was certain his troops could do. Dominion training was strict, and these people had all been carefully screened. He was certain they would do him proud.

Not a one grimmaces, or rolls their eyes at Omicron Blu's words, but a good deal of them straighten into more of an 'at attention' stance.

Many eyes widen, and brows raise as her voice sounds in their heads. A few look up with furrowed brows, as if uncertain quite how to feel about someone else in their heads, though they look on with undisguised interest.

As she gives them the go ahead, there is the sound of shuffling and movment, with minimal chatter as they turn to check their partners. The room quiets immediately as they attempt a connection.

Talethian nods to the woman at the front right corner, and she acknowledges with a nod of her own, then speaks softly to the man on her left.

Mari Talento, if I remember correctly ... He focuses as instructed, eyes steady.

Miss Talento - if you can 'hear' me, acknowledge.

Jarred on the other hand, jumps slightly at being personally addressed. He looks up to Blu with suprise, but nods and assumes a look of concentration. After a moment, he attempts to connect.

A pleasure, Miss Blu. Thank you for this opportunity, he tries to convey.

(OOC: A random aside. Move along, nothing to see here....)

Bachran moseyed on down the corridors, taking his time in reaching the hangar, hands in his pockets, feeling very satisfied with himself. He hopped into a mining shuttle, and left for Iapetus, all the time thinking sweet. Almost a year, and Lacleod still doesn't suspect a thing.

Blu stands there, looking straight at the poor guy. I get the impression of my name, and a sense of "thank you". Try again. This time, focus on sending your thoughts. Frame them carefully in your mind, and then send them.

She could, of course, simply read his mind to gain what he was saying, but that would not help him at all when communicating with his comrades. She smiles slightly, imagining the conversation within the Nathicani fleet being nothing more than mind-to-mind thought transfer.

How odd it must have been for those first organics to come on board the Disc. To see all of the Angelans walking around as silent as the dead?

A couple of hours later...
Another Omicron avatar comes into the suite, gently proding Maica out of his slumber.
He stirs and comes to. "Hey, you're all...oh"
"Sorry, I'm still not used to the multiple avatars. I need to work on that. I mean today, with what happened, it's all that flashed though my mind, what if I lose you, but I never stop to think there are more of you, sorry."
He sits upright, throwing an arm around her waist, *sigh* "This has been an interesting day to say the least. Well, I hope SHODAN and Barry are happy."

She starts a little, his arm around her waist was something new... Yes, the burgeoning relationship between them had resulted in bodily contact, but this... This was affection, the casual caress of someone who... loved her?

With a small sense of nervous tension, she gingerly encircles him with her arms, gently pulling him closer to her. She places a soft kiss on the side of his neck, and she smiles as she whispers into his ear.

"I am sorry, Maica... I would never leave you... I... I love you too much for that now..."

---Post deleted by NationStates Moderators---

Blu stands there, looking straight at the poor guy. I get the impression of my name, and a sense of "thank you". Try again. This time, focus on sending your thoughts. Frame them carefully in your mind, and then send them.

He nodded briefly, and redoubled his efforts. Around the room, various people nodded excitedly, murmuring in soft tones as they met with limited success.

Talethian smiles in satisfaction as the woman arches a brow at his partial message.

Excellent. Will take time, but I can't think of a more efficient way to communicate.

She starts a little, his arm around her waist was something new... Yes, the burgeoning relationship between them had resulted in bodily contact, but this... This was affection, the casual caress of someone who... loved her?

With a small sense of nervous tension, she gingerly encircles him with her arms, gently pulling him closer to her. She places a soft kiss on the side of his neck, and she smiles as she whispers into his ear.

"I am sorry, Maica... I would never leave you... I... I love you too much for that now..."
Maica turns and looks into the two deep blue eyes, seeming to fall into them, unable to move.
He smiles, and the two's eyes wander focusing on an elaborate door to the rear of the suite.
Are you sure....

I/We extend the invitation for any who would wish to visit the Disc to please contact Me/Us so that arrangements can be made.

"Freakish."

"Certainly. And potentially beneficial. Contact the Foundry, inform them of a course change."

"What, we're going to take them up on the offer?"

"Of course! Now, get back there and align the high-gain."

[5 minutes later]

"Herb! We're all set! Fire away!"

<High-Gain Transmission :: Angelus>
Greetings! This is the Guild Ship Minos. We have recieved your invitation, and request permission to take you up on your offer to have us visit.
<End>

Maica turns and looks into the two deep blue eyes, seeming to fall into them, unable to move.
He smiles, and the two's eyes wander focusing on an elaborate door to the rear of the suite.
Are you sure....

Blu smiles and reaches up to gently touch his face. Lying is not the domain of Angelus. Even if it were, I... I could not lie to you.

She cups his cheek, and leans in to place a soft kiss upon his lips.

Excellent. Will take time, but I can't think of a more efficient way to communicate.

After a few minutes of attempting, Blu decides that everyone seemed to be getting the hang of it. Everyone but one. She frowns, and delves deep into his mind. She frowns even more deeply and instantly cuts him off from the Mainframe, sending a spike of pain into his skull.

Dovan Pelucidar, you are an inept fool, and your attempts to infiltrate the Angelans bring dishonor to yourself, your family, and to your traitorous Dominion Masters.

She turns to Talethien, and extends her hand towards the writhing man. Admiral, this man is plotting with others to overthrow the Dominion government. He was sent here by his masters to attempt to gain more knowledge of Angelan systems than what was freely given. I formally request that you release him into Our custody for punishment. A full record of his mind will be made, and delivered to you upon your request.

"Herb, why do we have to be the ones to come out here?"
"Because we were already close."
"So was the Clarissa."
"The Clarissa doesn't have an encounter tank."
*grumble* "ehhh... I wonder if any Guilder has been out this far before."
"Well, duh! Some of the founders were Titanian. Aside from that, I beleive the Herculaneum landed on Chiron a couple months ago. So, can we get an ETA?"
"Yeah, yeah... uh, 20 days at peak specific impulse. A plasma burn could cut that to 18 days, but we'd be left with less than one tank of xenon when we arrive."
"We'll have to refuel anyway, let's do a plasma burn."
"Check. shutting down first stage... now." *flip, flip, click* "Alrighty, we're adrift. Increasing magnetic containment... check. Activating heating arrays... now! Restarting fuel flow on your mark."
"Buckle up, people! Cora, can you give us a countdown?"

Of course, captain. Optimal burn time in T-7. T-5. T-4. T-2...

"Mark!"
"Initiating burn- oof!"

T+1. Optimal shutdown time in T-6. T-4. T-3...

"Cutting fuel flow- whoo. Whenever we hit more than .4g, my love for these padded seats is renewed."
" :) Hehe. I hear ya, Ivan. Ion?"
"Yup, bringing it back now. We're good!"
"And now, we can leave it all to gravity. Cora, increase nitrous oxide levels 500%. Begin reducing ambient temperature to 273 degrees, 3 degrees per hour. Ivan, time to sleep."

The two of them unbuckled their seat belts, and floated off the bridge, and down to the crew quarters.

"Reckon we should wake up Steve and tell him what's goin' on?"
"Nah, he knows where we're headed, suspended animation'll keep him right along with us."
"Kay. Goodnight."
"Ditto."

They zipped up their sleeping bags, and drifted off.

[17.5 days later]

Please awaken. Destination in sight.

Ivan slowly pried open his eyes.
"Thanks, Cora." He blinked a few times. "Wow, that certainly didn't feel like 18 days. My eyes usually aren't this sticky, though. Hey, Steve, Herb, wake up, we're here."

The Minos was now in a polar orbit around Saturn, outside the Ring, of course. As the crew was waking up, Cora took the liberty of contacting the WorldDisc.

<High-Gain Transmission :: Angelus>
This is an automated message. The Guild Ship Minos. Requests permission to send a delegation to the WorldDisc. Please Respond.
<End>

http://timesurfer.linuxcowboy.net/MinosSide.jpg

Well this is an interesting conundrum. On one hand I am president and this won't look good for policy. Hell, they'll have my head for it. But on the other hand, she is a sweet thing. Ahhh, to hell with reelection. Damned finicky mistress politics is
He grings slighty. Oi, everyone probably heard that, damn it, I forget my focus for one second, and BAM! I'm front page news somewhere. Hehe, 'Due to the unfreezing process I have no inner monologue'

Spacers Guild, you have been given persmission to head to the WorldDisc, via small shuttle, and have been cleared for pass through Trium Defense zones 4a through 5f.

###BEGIN TRANSMISSION###
~>Route: Omicron Blu - Angelus Mainframe - Minos
:
{Permission granted. Dock at port .045}
{Please state purpose of visit beyond diplomacy.}
:
~>Route closed
###END TRANSMISSION###

---
http://www.silentrequiem.net/littleblu.jpg (http://www.silentrequiem.net/angelus)
Automata Omicron Blu
Speaker of the Dominion

http://www.silentrequiem.net/triumvirate/images/trium_insig.gif (http://www.silentrequiem.net/triumvirate)
Membership: Triumvirate of Yut, Ur Trade Pact, Zion Pact, SEACTO, DeusExHumanaConsortium

Well this is an interesting conundrum. On one hand I am president and this won't look good for policy. Hell, they'll have my head for it. But on the other hand, she is a sweet thing. Ahhh, to hell with reelection. Damned finicky mistress politics is
He grings slighty. Oi, everyone probably heard that, damn it, I forget my focus for one second, and BAM! I'm front page news somewhere. Hehe, 'Due to the unfreezing process I have no inner monologue'

Blu gently strokes the side of his face. Maica... do you... She sighs, looking away. We are different, you and I. I am machine, and you are organic... is this even right?

She sighs again and looks back at him, her brilliant eyes staring deep into his own. But I cannot simply shut this emotion off... Physically, I can. I can make the emotion go away... but I cannot stop thinking about it, even when duty requires me to be emotionless.

She chuckles softly. Is this what it means when they say that "love never fails"?

"you are an inept fool, and your attempts to infiltrate the Angelans bring dishonor to yourself, your family, and to your traitorous Dominion Masters.[/b]

She turns to Talethien, and extends her hand towards the writhing man. Admiral, this man is plotting with others to overthrow the Dominion government. He was sent here by his masters to attempt to gain more knowledge of Angelan systems than what was freely given. I formally request that you release him into Our custody for punishment. A full record of his mind will be made, and delivered to you upon your request.

Talethian's eyes narrowed, looking between Omincron Blu and the man.

"I would request ... proof, before resorting to any espionage, if you don't mind? And it is not on account of not trusting - you have carried yourselves with the utmost honor. But this is a new technology, and I, as their commanding officer, would simply like to verify your findings before making a decision. It's my duty."

He scowled darkly at the man. How dare he shame them, and here, now?

"And if I might ask, what are the proper proceedures and punnishments here on the WorldDisc for such crimes?"

Talethian's eyes narrowed, looking between Omincron Blu and the man.

"I would request ... proof, before resorting to any espionage, if you don't mind? And it is not on account of not trusting - you have carried yourselves with the utmost honor. But this is a new technology, and I, as their commanding officer, would simply like to verify your findings before making a decision. It's my duty."

He scowled darkly at the man. How dare he shame them, and here, now?

"And if I might ask, what are the proper proceedures and punnishments here on the WorldDisc for such crimes?"

Understandable. She nods curtly, and connects Talethian's mind with Pelucidar's. She shows him the deceit he tried to hide, the plans for revenge, the instructions to gain as much from the Angelans as he could. What is more, the names of the conspirators were revealed to Talethian.

As for procedures, in a case where execution is the penalty, the convicted has their mind eraced by forced datarecording. Then, their bodies are killed and recycled.

{Permission granted. Dock at port .045}
{Please state purpose of visit beyond diplomacy.}


"Thanks, Cora. I'll take it from here."

Ivan strapped himself into his seat on the bridge, and opened the comm.\

<Low-Gain Transmission :: Angelus>
Our purposes beyond diplomacy are to investigate the possibility of technological exchange, to find out exactly what you are, and to refuel. We're pretty much stuck in this orbit until we get a fresh load of xenon, so would you mind sending out a shuttle to pick us up? Er... well, we'd have to get a shuttle anyway, I guess, since no airlocks are showing up on the telescope....
<End>

"Steve, what's the status of the encounter tank?"
"Ready, sir. Hop in, and we'll start fillin' 'er up."

###BEGIN TRANSMISSION###
~>Route: Docking Control - Angelus Mainframe - Minos
:
{We are sending a shuttle out to get you, please stand by.}
:
~>Route closed
###END TRANSMISSION###

A massive gate in the side of the Disc irises open, and a small shuttlecraft (http://www.silentrequiem.net/angelus/mirror.html) flies out. Its drives flare with Ionburn, and the shuttle picks up speed at a tremendous rate.

Within minutes, the shuttle slides to a stop alongside the Minos. A thin membrane extends outwards from the rear of the shuttlecraft, and attatches itself around the Minos' airlock.

###BEGIN TRANSMISSION###
~>Route: Lx22 - Angelus Mainframe - Minos
:
{We have arrived, and docking procedure in place. Exit your airlock and}
{come across. Organic atmosphere equivalent to Earth's has been provided.}
:
~>Route closed
###END TRANSMISSION###

Ivan released his belt and floated down into the crew section. After he and Herbert were locked into the encounter tank, Steve started up the water pumps and went on up to the airlock, leaving the encounter tank just below on the bridge. After he cycled through, he looked around inside the shuttle and said "Exactly how strong is the artificial gravity we'll be going into?" as he gave a tug on the leadline to pull Ivan and Herb through.

The tank is 5'X6'X8' and 95% filled with water. (OOC: Think Navigator tanks from DUNE, but transparent.) Ivan and Herb floated inside, breathing through aparatus similar to a scuba mask, which connected to external air intakes.

They board the shuttle, and as soon as the shuttle door closes, exactly 1Gee descends upon them.

This is Docking Control. We request knowledge of your specific organic needs.

The shuttle begins to move, accelerating once again towards the massive Disc.

The interior of the shuttle is small, just large enough to accomodate the Encounter Tank. There are no chairs, no computer terminals, no decoration of any kind. Merely a viewscreen showing the exterior forward-facing view, and a small control node built into the front of the craft.

Mindwipe? Then by the same token, perhaps ...

"Ah thought, my Lady," he began, his mind working along the paths most Dominion folks who had risen through the ranks to positions of power did.

"What would be your position on a reprogramming of the spy, and in turn, using him against our common enemy? While recycling has its appeal, I prefer to make as much use of our resources as possible. It is only logical to do so," he said, eyes glittering darkly.

But can they do it, and if so, will they? They seem a much more moralistic lot than we. It's difficult to judge, but I need to know what boundaries we have here.

They board the shuttle, and as soon as the shuttle door closes, exactly 1Gee descends upon them.

This is Docking Control. We request knowledge of your specific organic needs.

The shuttle begins to move, accelerating once again towards the massive Disc.

The interior of the shuttle is small, just large enough to accomodate the Encounter Tank. There are no chairs, no computer terminals, no decoration of any kind. Merely a viewscreen showing the exterior forward-facing view, and a small control node built into the front of the craft.

"Whoa!" Steve grabbed onto the side of the tank to keep from splatting against the little bit of floor left. He let himself down slowly to the floor. "OK, I guess I'll be staying here, then."

Ivan tapped on the glass, and began to speak through a hydrophone. "Hey, maybe they'll have a wheelchair or something. At least you can survive in this gravity. I'm stuck in an oversized aquarium."

Time Dialation: 2 Weeks later.
Maica sits at his desk in the Presidental office, a pair of reading glass perched atop his head, more fore looks than anything.
There is a knock on the door, and a secretary enters the office.
He finishes signing some papers, and looks up.
"What is it?"
"Sir, the Angelean diplomat is here to see you."
He cocks his head to the side. Odd, she didn't say she was coming
"Send her in."
Omicron soon enters, looking perplexed.
"What is it Omi?"

Mindwipe? Then by the same token, perhaps ...

"Ah thought, my Lady," he began, his mind working along the paths most Dominion folks who had risen through the ranks to positions of power did.

"What would be your position on a reprogramming of the spy, and in turn, using him against our common enemy? While recycling has its appeal, I prefer to make as much use of our resources as possible. It is only logical to do so," he said, eyes glittering darkly.

But can they do it, and if so, will they? They seem a much more moralistic lot than we. It's difficult to judge, but I need to know what boundaries we have here.

Blu pauses for a moment, conferring with the Mainframe. We concur. We will implant him with a construct/mind controller, and send him on his way. We suggest that this be kept quiet, as it might reflect badly upon the Triumvirate.

She makes a slight motion with her hand, and two Guardian Units appear to drag the helpless traitor away.

Perhaps after we have concluded here, we should check on him?

The remainder of the day was spent furthering the connection between minds, that essential link between man and machine. The vast majority of the remaining Nathicani quickly grew to accept the new Augment, learning how to communicate with each other relatively quickly.

Finally, Blu lifts her hand and all is quiet. Tomorrow we shall focus on Cspace training. This may or may not be difficult for you, depending on how well you Focus. This next test will make or break you. Either you perform well, or you will have your Augment removed and you will be sent home.

Any further questions about the Augment, or about Focus?

"Whoa!" Steve grabbed onto the side of the tank to keep from splatting against the little bit of floor left. He let himself down slowly to the floor. "OK, I guess I'll be staying here, then."

Ivan tapped on the glass, and began to speak through a hydrophone. "Hey, maybe they'll have a wheelchair or something. At least you can survive in this gravity. I'm stuck in an oversized aquarium."

ooc: Um. Because of the null-wave generator creating the gravity field around the ship, neither of your people would have felt the acceleration.

IC:

Again, We request information regarding your specific organic needs. We wish to be as accomodating as possible, but without specifics, We cannot do so.

The ship coasts in towards the Disc, allowing the gravity well of the Disc to draw them into it. They slide in closer, and suddenly three tractor beams lance out and attach to the shuttle, drawing it through a massive doorway.

Inside, they fly through an immense hangar, ships of every concievable shape and design spread out all across the huge space. Standing out above all the rest is a massive glittering spire, apparently made out of pure crystal.

The beams lead the ship in and set it gently down on its birth, where heavy latches rise into place to lock it down. Outside, a tall woman floating about a foot off the ground, is waiting for them. Two gravdiscs float behind her, one empty, and one carrying four of the gruesome-looking Guardian Units.

Omicron soon enters, looking perplexed.
"What is it Omi?"

Blu glides over to take a seat on the edge of his desk, her hand resting gently on his. Maica... Remember that horrible experience with Orctan? There was one positive thing that came from that whole mess, and that was the fact that I was actualy pregnant...

She looks away, a dark cloud over her brilliant eyes. The entire Mainframe rejoiced with me, and was angry with me. There it was, a wonderful chance for an Automata to give birth to an organic child... It would be an amazing step forward in not only Our social evolution, but the evolution of organic/inorganic relations.

A smile spreads across her blue-tinged lips, and she looks back into his eyes. The fact that it was evil destroyed all hope of me bringing the child to term. I felt that Our only chance had been lost... until now.

ooc: Um. Because of the null-wave generator creating the gravity field around the ship, neither of your people would have felt the acceleration.

OOC: It's not the acceleration, it's the artificial gravity. He was born in 0g.

IC:
Again, We request information regarding your specific organic needs. We wish to be as accomodating as possible, but without specifics, We cannot do so.

"Right-o. Herb and me should be just fine with standard human conditions as long as we're in the tank."

"Yeah, but I'm not in the tank, in casse you didn't notice!"

"Oh, yeah, Steve'll need a wheelchair."

The beams lead the ship in and set it gently down on its birth, where heavy latches rise into place to lock it down. Outside, a tall woman floating about a foot off the ground, is waiting for them. Two gravdiscs float behind her, one empty, and one carrying four of the gruesome-looking Guardian Units.

(OOC: Assuming that the door opened....)

Ivan grabbed a control panel at the front of the tank. He pushed forward on a joystick and the Encounter Tank began to roll out. Steve remained behind on the floor of the shuttle. Struggling to sit up, he said "Hello! We're here, then? Could I get some help?"

Blu pauses for a moment, conferring with the Mainframe. We concur. We will implant him with a construct/mind controller, and send him on his way. We suggest that this be kept quiet, as it might reflect badly upon the Triumvirate.

Excellent. So our new allies are not as constricted by certain morals as we would have thought. The Lady will be most pleased with this development.

Talethian nodded sharply in approval. "I thank you for your understanding and assistance in this manner. You may of course rely on our discretion. And yes, once we've completed business here, I would enjoy seeing the man."

At the end of the training, the Nathicani chatter excitedly to one another, until Blu signals for silence. They look excited, and anxious to proceed, though a touch tired around the eyes at the vigorous mental exertion they've been through. At the mention of having the augments removed, many eyes harden in grim determination to succeed in tomorrows tests.

Most of the crowd respond in a mix of "No, Miss Blu," or "No, ma-am," and other such respectful responses to her question. Talethian looks on proudly.

"I believe then, that they are ready for dismissal, at your approval." he says to Omicron Blu.

Blu motions, and one of the Guardian Units rolls forward to enter the shuttle after the departure of the Tank. It reaches down witha clawed hand, and snaps something about Steve's waist. He thumbs a dial on it, and Steve floats into the air.

Move forward by pushing here. Rotate, here and here. Backwards, here. Upwards and downwards, here and here.

The Unit then rolls away, leaving Steve floating there in the air.

Blu turns to the Tank and bows respectfully to Herb and Ivan. Pleasure to meet you, sirs. I am Automata-Designate Omicron Blu, Speaker of the Dominion. I welcome you to the Angelus WorldDisc.

"I believe then, that they are ready for dismissal, at your approval." he says to Omicron Blu.

Blu nods. Excellent. You are all dismissed. Reassemble in Auditorium 4F at 0830, on the dot. If you are not here on that time, you will have your Augment removed, and you will be sent home.

She gives everyone a sharp nod, and turns to Talethien. That went well. We should go now and see how our young Devon is doing.

"Indeed," says Talethian.

Many of the folks look confused however, but having been dismissed ... they carry on, many whispering things to the effect of 'Do you have any idea where that is?'

He echos the sentiment, turning to Blu with a quizzical expression. "And ah, where might that auditorium be, my Lady?"

At the Angelus Communications on the World Disc...

To: Angelus, World Disc
Fr: Ur, NS Earth
Re: invitation to the World Disc
===========================================
><><><.,Message Unsuccessfully Decoded>??<@>{{{{{

=+++-90=_+Error 1491093-023987. Please consult Windows Media Help at http://www.microsoft.com/help ++__!+ _)_#_)**%%@

Re-em-er a -ong a-> an invitation w-- -xtended t!@(? some *$^a/ Ur obser-=s s982-0 ao (@#(*

19+s00000000000001011 101100000
1100101101111 100101010 101000000000000
00010110111100000001010100 00000011110101

(@* ?" mil0a9 n =n tons of ()!tanium ()@ or or or
or kss or or... or .asl con. A )(82O0982M0928i098s -908t-098h0981e 0981 -coo 981 2 *@*&l19283{}est* (&@game. {} S?A
=========================== =================

OC: As you can see, Long-Distance Phone Calls don't work too well. And I haven't paid my phone bills. :) There actually is a message in there; hope you understand binary and good luck finding it.

Blu smiles at Talethien. They will have to ask the Mainframe, now wont they?

She turns and leaves, leading Talethien out of the Auditorium and onto a waiting gravdisc. Eventually they will learn how to use the gravdiscs, and they will be able to use the Mainframe to find everywhere they need to go. She shrugs. Of course, some of them might lose their way, or not think to ask the Mainframe for assistance, and they will be told to leave. I am sure you do not want unimaginative sorts piloting ships you have paid so handsomely for. You want the best, and I will make sure you get it.

The disc soars out across the Level One city and sinks into one of the Tubes. After a few minutes of travelling through wild twists and turns, they finally emerge into a large, dimly-lit corridor. Thick iron doors line the walls, leading to small holding cells, most of which are surprisingly empty.

We do not have a very high crime rate on board the Disc. Crime is dealt with immediately, and harshly. In a case where evidence does not support either side, an Augment is implanted in the defendant's brain, and the truth is revealed. Faced with that, there are not too many criminals on board. She smiles, and the disc floats down to the end of the tunnel, where two more steel doors slide open and lets them pass.

They float into an immaculate sickbay, but with none of the comforts of the sickbays available to everyone else. Everything is made from cold steel, and the tables have thick restraining bands. The room is also empty, save for the naked form of Devon Pelucidar, lying strapped down to one of the tables, a sorry image to be sure.

Blu steps off of the gravdisc, and floats over to look down at the semiconscious man. Wake up, Devon. You have visitors.

Move forward by pushing here. Rotate, here and here. Backwards, here. Upwards and downwards, here and here.

"Wow. Thanks. So... is one of these things making you float, too?"

Blu turns to the Tank and bows respectfully to Herb and Ivan. Pleasure to meet you, sirs. I am Automata-Designate Omicron Blu, Speaker of the Dominion. I welcome you to the Angelus WorldDisc.

Ivan spoke through the hydrophone again. The Tank's speakers broadcast a strangely distorted vesrion of his voice, trying to make up for the water.

"The pleasure is ours, I assure you. My name is Ivan Venter, Communications and Engineering. This here is Herbert Keys, Engineering and Navigation. And that," he waved towards Steve, "is Steve Gurney Communications and Navigation. He's only second generation, so he doesn't get to use the Tank."

While Steve fiddled around with his levitation thingy, Herb spoke up. "Those tractor beams, what powers them? It seems that the range was too great for Hutchison Effect generators."

Omicron soon enters, looking perplexed.
"What is it Omi?"

Blu glides over to take a seat on the edge of his desk, her hand resting gently on his. Maica... Remember that horrible experience with Orctan? There was one positive thing that came from that whole mess, and that was the fact that I was actualy pregnant...

She looks away, a dark cloud over her brilliant eyes. The entire Mainframe rejoiced with me, and was angry with me. There it was, a wonderful chance for an Automata to give birth to an organic child... It would be an amazing step forward in not only Our social evolution, but the evolution of organic/inorganic relations.

A smile spreads across her blue-tinged lips, and she looks back into his eyes. The fact that it was evil destroyed all hope of me bringing the child to term. I felt that Our only chance had been lost... until now.
Maica raises an eyebrow, following Omi's statement. As he does, his jaw drops a little, eyes widening. OH.
He stands, pacing about. He then looks at Omi and walks back to his desk, leaning over it, and opening the drawer. No or never, or some other time
He turns, dropping to his knees and presenting a ring.
"Will you marry me?"

Maica raises an eyebrow, following Omi's statement. As he does, his jaw drops a little, eyes widening. OH.
He stands, pacing about. He then looks at Omi and walks back to his desk, leaning over it, and opening the drawer. Now or never, or some other time...
He turns, dropping to his knees and presenting a ring.
"Will you marry me?"

Blu's brilliant eyes frost over, and a pulse of surprise and love tingles out across the Mainframe. She blinks a few times, and extends her hand towards Maica.

Oh, Maica... of course I will marry you!

"Wow. Thanks. So... is one of these things making you float, too?"

Blu raises a delicate blue eyebrow. Not a problem, but no, mine is built into my body, and much more complicated.


Ivan spoke through the hydrophone again. The Tank's speakers broadcast a strangely distorted vesrion of his voice, trying to make up for the water.

"The pleasure is ours, I assure you. My name is Ivan Venter, Communications and Engineering. This here is Herbert Keys, Engineering and Navigation. And that," he waved towards Steve, "is Steve Gurney Communications and Navigation. He's only second generation, so he doesn't get to use the Tank."

Excellent. We are curious as to your organic structure. Perhaps We could impose a few tests upon your person? There would be no physical contact, of course, merely a surface scan.

While Steve fiddled around with his levitation thingy, Herb spoke up. "Those tractor beams, what powers them? It seems that the range was too great for Hutchison Effect generators."

There are complexities of the Web that I will not go into, as it would violate Our policy on extending technological knowledge to people We have just met. However, I will say that using a Hutchison Effect generator at that power would have shattered your ship. Yes, the levitation qualities of such a generator have been used in different studies on the Disc, but the other elements of the Effect are far too volatile to make the levitational properties useful on a grand scale.

She smiles at them and motions towards the disc floating nearby. Shall we? Dock .045, while suitable for many things, is not necessarily conducive to diplomatic conversation.

To: Angelus, World Disc
Fr: Ur, NS Earth
Re: invitation to the World Disc
===========================================
><><><.,Message Unsuccessfully Decoded>??<@>{{{{{

=+++-90=_+Error 1491093-023987. Please consult Windows Media Help at http://www.microsoft.com/help ++__!+ _)_#_)**%%@

Re-em-er a -ong a-> an invitation w-- -xtended t!@(? some *$^a/ Ur obser-=s s982-0 ao (@#(*

19+s00000000000001011 101100000
1100101101111 100101010 101000000000000
00010110111100000001010100 00000011110101

(@* ?" mil0a9 n =n tons of ()!tanium ()@ or or or
or kss or or... or .asl con. A )(82O0982M0928i098s -908t-098h0981e 0981 -coo 981 2 *@*&l19283{}est* (&@game. {} S?A
=========================== =================

###BEGIN TRANSMISSION###
~>Route: Omicron Blu - Angelus Mainframe - Ur
:
{We have recieved your message. A transport is being sent to retrieve your}
{representative, and deliver them to the Disc. The Unmentionable Dream (http://www.silentrequiem.net/angelus/gallant.html)}
{has been rerouted to Earth. It shall arrive shortly.}
:
~>Route closed
###END TRANSMISSION###

---
http://www.silentrequiem.net/littleblu.jpg (http://www.silentrequiem.net/angelus)
Automata Omicron Blu
Speaker of the Dominion

http://www.silentrequiem.net/triumvirate/images/trium_insig.gif (http://www.silentrequiem.net/triumvirate/)
Membership: Triumvirate of Yut, Ur Trade Pact, Zion Pact, SEACTO, DeusExHumanaConsortium

About an hour later, the huge ship slides to a stop somewhere high over the Ur capital, and a transmission is sent down to the city.

###BEGIN TRANSMISSION###
~>Route: Automata F16 - Angelus Mainframe - Ur
:
{This is Automata-Designate F16 on board The Unmentionable Dream (http://www.silentrequiem.net/angelus/gallant.html)}
{We have been re-routed to pick up some representatives and transport}
{them to the WorldDisc.}
{We request information on how many shall be going, and then to drop an}
{appropriate amount of shuttlecraft.}
:
~>Route closed
###END TRANSMISSION###

Of course, some of them might lose their way, or not think to ask the Mainframe for assistance, and they will be told to leave. I am sure you do not want unimaginative sorts piloting ships you have paid so handsomely for. You want the best, and I will make sure you get it.

Talethian nodded in approval. "Very efficient. I appreciate that, my Lady. We agree - there is no point wasting time with those who cannot be up to snuff."

He was anxious to see just how many managed to pass the test. He hoped not too many would disappoint ... that would be most unfortunate for them.

We do not have a very high crime rate on board the Disc. Crime is dealt with immediately, and harshly. In a case where evidence does not support either side, an Augment is implanted in the defendant's brain, and the truth is revealed. Faced with that, there are not too many criminals on board.

"Indeed," he says, smiling coldly. "I cannot say that I disagree with your methods in the least. You run a very tight ship here, my Lady. I wholeheartedly approve. I'm certain there is much we can learn from you in your methods, though we may lack the technology and skills to put them to full effect."

Wake up, Devon. You have visitors.

The man's eyes fly open and he looks around wildly, refusing to say a word, but looking as though he'd flee in terror if not strapped down firmly.

Talethian eyes the man coldly.

Blu turns to the man, and gives him a very sickeningly sweet smile. She connects the three of them together, and her voice whispers in their brains, cloyingly sweet.... seductive.... powerful.

You are connected to Us, Devon... You are a part of the Collective now... Anything you think, any emotion you feel, anything you do, is instantly knowable throughout the entire Collective. If I wanted, I could transmit every one of your thoughts to all of local space, along with the feeling of the piss that is currently dribbling down your leg.

She walks over and places her gloved hand on his face. We do not take kindly to traitors, Devon, which places you in a rather interesting predicament... What do you have to say for yourself?

The Ur capital (Ur), has Angelan ship's com link locked.

=====Incoming Transmission=====

Prepared Statement to Angelan Emissaries Unmentionable Dream
The Ur government is very glad in providing Mr. Benny See for the World Disc. Mr. Benny See specializes in electronics and physics. We believe that he will provide quite a representation of Ur.

We were afraid that our call wouldn't go through. Our long distance provider, SBC Ameritech, is a piece of shit (No, really it is). It has been decent thus far, but outer space communications are not their specialty. We would appreciate it if Ur would have a form of communications with Angelus on the World Disc that doesn't require T1 cables.

========End Transmission=========

The man looked at Blu in abject horror, a stream of thoughts dealing with 'monstor' and 'mercy' and 'how in gods name am I going to get out of this' running throughout his thoughts.

"But they promised me!" he managed to choke out, "They swore it would all be fine, that I'd be protected!"

In a desperate move, he wailed "They made me do this! It's not my fault!"

Blu could see immediately it was a blatant lie.

Talethian watched on in disgust, furious at the man's lack of backbone and decorum. Bloody waste of flesh, that one. How, by the powers that be, did he manage to get this far in our forces with such lack of spine? This warrants a ... purging, I think.

We were afraid that our call wouldn't go through. Our long distance provider, SBC Ameritech, is a piece of shit (No, really it is). It has been decent thus far, but outer space communications are not their specialty. We would appreciate it if Ur would have a form of communications with Angelus on the World Disc that doesn't require T1 cables.

###BEGIN TRANSMISSION###
~>Route: Automata F16 - Angelus Mainframe - Ur
:
{Acknowledged. We recieved enough of a transmission for your intent to}
{be understood. We will also deliver to you a Subether Telescreen, to}
{facilitate an easier connection between Our two peoples.}
{A transport will be sent.}
:
~>Route closed
###END TRANSMISSION###

A small shuttle disengages from the Unmentionable Dream (http://www.silentrequiem.net/angelus/mirror.html), and drops rapidly towards Ur. Several moments later, it is resting on the tarmac of the largest airport.

The craft is completely empty inside save for a small dome-shaped object, with a large screen attached. ((Think of the new white iMacs)) A shimmering field seperates the interior of the shuttle from the outside, and any attempt to breach is answered with a response from the shuttle.

Personal transport for Mr. Benny See, transport to the Angelan WorldDisc. Included to remain behind, subether transponder.

"But they promised me!" he managed to choke out, "They swore it would all be fine, that I'd be protected!"

In a desperate move, he wailed "They made me do this! It's not my fault!"

You are not in a position to begin lying like this, Devon. Doing so, will only make things worse for you. She leans forward, her face inches from his. However, in a way, you are going to get revenge on the people that did this to you. Of course, you will not know it is revenge, nor will you know that you were caught. You will leave here without any knowledge of this. You will leave here as Our assassin.

She smiles darkly, and nods. M2 appears from nowhere, a weird grin on his face. "Can I make it hurt, Miss Blu?"

She shakes her head. No. There will be no pain. But I wish you to accentuate his mental defficiencies. I want him to suffer.

The doctor nods eagerly and sets to work, putting Devon into instant catatonia.

The man shrieks once before going under, loosing what little control he had left both of mind and body.

Why you devious, deliciously twisted bitch … Talethian can’t help but think, a broad smile appearing on his lean face. “My Lady Omicron-Blu, I have to say … I truly appreciate your style. If I didn’t know any better, I’d say you were a native of my own country.” The tone of his voice and his demeanor made it clear that he meant it as a high compliment. “If I may say so, I am quite glad that our nations are on friendly terms. I’d hate to meet you as an enemy.”

She’s every inch, and then some, what Nathicana used to be. Though grateful for the reprieve, I’m still not certain I like the softness that woman has been showing. Going to get her killed if she doesn’t watch herself.

He watches the procedure with a detached interest, clearly not minding the method or the purpose.

Mr. Benny See enters the Unmentionable Dream.

He looks around...

Excellent. We are curious as to your organic structure. Perhaps We could impose a few tests upon your person? There would be no physical contact, of course, merely a surface scan.

"Not a problem. What information you cannot discover yourselves, we can readily provide you."


There are complexities of the Web that I will not go into, as it would violate Our policy on extending technological knowledge to people We have just met. However, I will say that using a Hutchison Effect generator at that power would have shattered your ship. Yes, the levitation qualities of such a generator have been used in different studies on the Disc, but the other elements of the Effect are far too volatile to make the levitational properties useful on a grand scale.

"Your point is well taken. Our own experiments with the effect have been best put to use on the Foundries, in the transmution of metals, but we also employ such machinery for deflecting space junk. That is why I ask about the tractors."

She smiles at them and motions towards the disc floating nearby. Shall we? Dock .045, while suitable for many things, is not necessarily conducive to diplomatic conversation.

"Of course. Lead where you will. Perhaps, as we are your guests, it would be appropriate to reveal more about ourselves before you are inclined to reveal much to us?"

He watches the procedure with a detached interest, clearly not minding the method or the purpose.

The doctor finally looks up, and a slight electric shock runs along the hologram's outer edge, burning the blood off of his arms and hands. "Well, that should do it. I implanted carbon-filimant razors in his fingers, encased his chest cavity in a light trilinium/Alluminum alloy, enhanced his muscular structure, and added a self-destruct sequence controlled directly by the Mainframe."

He nods. "All that is left is for you to reprogram his brain, and everything is complete."

With a sly grin, Blu walks over and places her hand on the man's forehead. She closes her eyes, and begins to work. She shreds his personality matrix, reproducing it exactly in the Construct/Mind. She deletes portions of his memory, and adds new pieces. She manipulates and changes nearly every sector of his brain, completely re-mapping it on the C/M.

Finally, she adds the commands that give him the ability to use his new implants, and adds a virtual database of martial styles into his brain.

I am finished. He is now completely under Angelan control, and will function as Our assassin. He will know nothing of importance, but he will be sent home with "additional knowledge" to give to his masters. Upon delivery, he will methodically hunt down and kill every one of the Traitors he can before he is finally stopped. If there is a problem, We will vaporize every Angelan addition in his body.

She smiles. Well, Talethian, is this acceptable?

Mr. Benny See enters the shuttle from the Unmentionable Dream

He looks around...

The shuttle doors close behind him, and a synthesized voice fills the cabin. Good afternoon, Mr. See. We shall be taking you to the WorldDisc, are there any questions that you have, specifications that you require?

The small shuttle lifts off and soon flies free of gravity's hold. Moments later, it is safe within the security of the Unmentionable Dream.

"Of course. Lead where you will. Perhaps, as we are your guests, it would be appropriate to reveal more about ourselves before you are inclined to reveal much to us?"

Ivan began to steer the Encounter Tank onto the empty gravdisc.

"So... perhaps a bit of overview is in order. You have probably guessed why we are in this Tank. It is the same reason that we formed our own government and separated from Earth. We can't stand the gravity. Our founders were some of the original colonists and explorers of Jupiter, Saturn, Luna, Mars... When they discovered that they could never return to Earth gravity, the founders took up permanent residence in space. Eventually, a large number of them got together for economic purposes, as it was difficult to do business with those on the Motherworld, and the Guilds were born."

"Since then, several different races have evolved. Some are adapted to Martian gravity, Ganymede, or other inhabited bodies, but the vast majority of us, aside from the 'converts', former earthlings who stayed off-world for too long, are like Herb and I, Homo sapiens astra. A good deal of genetic tinkering has made us well adapted to life in zero-g, but we're still trying to figure out how to make ourselves shorter. With no gravity to compress our spines, the average height is 6.5 feet, which means we have to build large. If we can figure out how to alter our size accurately, we should be able to make these Tanks a bit less unwieldy."

"Of course. Lead where you will. Perhaps, as we are your guests, it would be appropriate to reveal more about ourselves before you are inclined to reveal much to us?"

Blu smiles, and the gravdiscs lift off, taking them deep into the WorldDisc. Several minutes later, they arrive in the Central Hub, and Blu gets off. The huge area is filled with people of all sorts of racial/species backgrounds. Elves and dwarves converse with humans and felines, Lizardmen, Automata, and Giant-kin all wander the massive central Hub. A huge archway leads to a massive marketplace, and all sorts of exotic scents waft through the air.

Blu strides through it all, the residents of the Disc recognizing her for who she is, and giving her and her guests a wide birth. This is the Central Hub, a meeting place for all of the Human Sector's residents. It, of course, is also central to the Districts, and one can get anywhere from here.

While you are here, there are many ways to spend your time that are available to you. We have research labs, theatres, brothels, resturants, recreational facilities, observational platforms, racetracks, if you can think of it, We probably can provide it. As for monetary means, I have taken the liberty to deposit several thousand credits into an account set up in your name. She holds up three creditsticks. Any questions?

She continues on, leading them up a broad set of stairs and into a quieter section of the Hub. This is the diplomatic district. We shall retire to a lounge for conversation.

While you are here, there are many ways to spend your time that are available to you. We have research labs, .... As for monetary means, I have taken the liberty to deposit several thousand credits into an account set up in your name.[/b] She holds up three creditsticks. Any questions?

She continues on, leading them up a broad set of stairs and into a quieter section of the Hub. This is the diplomatic district. We shall retire to a lounge for conversation.

"No further questions so far. Well, that's not quite true... I have given you a basic overview of our people, but do you have any questions for us, on more specific matters?"

Mr. See is pleased and impressed at the high technology and class. He was amazed at what class and style a Sentient could create...

EMERGENCY Transmission to Mr. See

...Processing...

Mr. See, the Ur government requests that you request the Sentient-in-Charge to release you for 48 hours as we properly outfit you with the correct equipment to conduct business on the WorldDisc involving not only observation, but observation. Of Automata X1's nuptials with the King gone Berserk.

===Transmission Automatically forwarded to Unmentionable Dream Transport Controls===

===Transmission Automatically forwarded to Angelan Mainframe on World Disc========

===Transmission Automatically forwarded to Jay Leno on Late Night Television Studios====

I am finished. He is now completely under Angelan control, and will function as Our assassin. He will know nothing of importance, but he will be sent home with "additional knowledge" to give to his masters. Upon delivery, he will methodically hunt down and kill every one of the Traitors he can before he is finally stopped. If there is a problem, We will vaporize every Angelan addition in his body.

She smiles. Well, Talethian, is this acceptable?

Throughout the proceedure, Talethian kept his features carefully schooled. He was amazed at the brutal efficiencey of these people, and no small amount intimidated by it all. Still ... the possibilities were amazing. And if it happened to come at the cost of a few, so be it.

"My dear Lady Blu, Speaker of Angelus, this goes beyond my wildest dreams," he says finally, bowing respectfully. "I'm certain the Lady will be very interested in the recent events. I will of course maintain the utmost discretion involving thie incident. As, I'm sure, will you."

"No further questions so far. Well, that's not quite true... I have given you a basic overview of our people, but do you have any questions for us, on more specific matters?"

"Right, then...." Hu! gak! <-sharp intake of breath, followed by a brief cough to expel inhaled water "I neglected to mention our affiliations, how could I be so inept!" Ivan slapped himself on the forehead.

"So sorry, I left out the single most important part of our introduction! We are from Guild Knossos, based on the Foundry at the Jovian trailing trojan asteroid cluster."

If we can figure out how to alter our size accurately, we should be able to make these Tanks a bit less unwieldy."

Perhaps We can assist you in that. If enough information is gleaned from the genetic studies of your peoples, perhaps an answer would be found within your Genome. Of course, a genetic fix would only effect people born after the fix was found, unless extensive surgery was administered on all of your people.

She glides underneath a large arch leading into a dimly-lit set of rooms. The central corridor is tiled in a perfectly polished black/white marble, and the walls are of some sort of metal painted a deep crimson. The lights are covered in scarlet-stained shades, casting a red glow on everything.

Blu leads them past several archways leading off to the side, and finally stops before a huge archway blocked by heavy crimson drapes. The Angelan sigil is stiched into the crimson fabric with black thread, stylized and huge.

A small girl steps forward from a tiny alcove off to the side, and Blu speaks to her in hushed tones. The girl nods, and returns to the alcove. A moment later, the large curtains pull slowly aside, revealing a huge sunken room tiled in the same black/white marble. Several large spheres float about the room, their sullen red glow bathing the entire room with an even dimmer crimson light.

Blu smiles and turns to her guests. This is the Scarlet Chamber, a zero-g lounge provided for those guests who wish to relax in a zero-g atmosphere. We believe that this would be comfortable for you?

Perhaps We can assist you in that. If enough information is gleaned from the genetic studies of your peoples, perhaps an answer would be found within your Genome. Of course, a genetic fix would only effect people born after the fix was found, unless extensive surgery was administered on all of your people.

Steve answered that. "Such assistance would be greatly appreciated. The return in increased efficency would be enormous, more than enough to pay for your effort, I'm sure. It's not so much a problem for me, and the other low-generations, but the effect of zero-gee is more pronounced the further down the lines you go."

Blu smiles and turns to her guests. This is the Scarlet Chamber, a zero-g lounge provided for those guests who wish to relax in a zero-g atmosphere. We believe that this would be comfortable for you?

An impish grin played across what could be seen of Herbert's face. Steve floated into the room, and almost instantly took up the neutral position.

"Many thanks. This is wonderful."

Ivan tapped the console, and water began to drain from the Tank and into storage tanks in the chassis. Not all, of course, but enough to avoid having any slosh out when the tank is opened. Herb stuck his head into the air bubble developing at the top of the Tank and removed his mask. A section of the roof slid back as Ivan said "I don't think you want globs of water floating about... could we have assistance exiting the Tank?"

"My dear Lady Blu, Speaker of Angelus, this goes beyond my wildest dreams," he says finally, bowing respectfully. "I'm certain the Lady will be very interested in the recent events. I will of course maintain the utmost discretion involving thie incident. As, I'm sure, will you."

We have always striven to uphold a strict code of discretion when dealing with Our allies. We withold specific need-to-know information, and frankly, only Nathicana and Angelus need to know about this whole event.

The doctor quickly unclamps the still-unconscious man, and Blu snaps her fingers the instant he is free, causing the man to come immediately to his feet. She smiles at Talethian, and guides the catatonic walker onto the gravdisc, and she motions for Talethian to join them.

Several minutes later, they were in the general sickbay, and the doctor was gently urging the poor man awake.

Come to, Devon! Blu calls, a tone of concern carefully implanted in her voice. You passed out during the training, and We are curious as to why.

[Ivan tapped the console, and water began to drain from the Tank and into storage tanks in the chassis. Not all, of course, but enough to avoid having any slosh out when the tank is opened. Herb stuck his head into the air bubble developing at the top of the Tank and removed his mask. A section of the roof slid back as Ivan said "I don't think you want globs of water floating about... could we have assistance exiting the Tank?"

Blu extends her hand, and her personal gravetic field stretches to cover the top of the tank in a thin layer of null-gravity. It should be fine now. Moving through the field may give you a feeling of mild discomfort, but it will pass within three minutes.

Continued from this thread. (http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=53834&start=40)


Kommetrez arches an eyebrow at the 'silly chance' remark. "Er... I don't think... ah, I understand." He chuckles. "You think I came all the way out here to off myself when I have a perfectly good pistol sitting in my desk right now. No, Bee," Alshai continues in a bemused tone as he makes his way to the pilot's seat, "I really did come out here to think, and only to think. Sorry if I scared you earlier with my talk.

"Well, then, sister," he chuckles again, "I suppose I'll actually have siblings for the first time in my life. Glad to join the family, I suppose." Glad to be around people who know so much about me that I don't have to be defensive anymore.

Settling into the seat, Alshai powers up Magician's systems and then preps his crash harness. "Well, let's get to the WorldDisc then. Razak--no, make that practically all of my command staff--is going to do backflips when they find out. Lessee if I can figure out this jump engine myself."

Sooner or later, Magician pops up relatively near the WorldDisc.

Beetoo guides the Magician into dock .045 without the aid of the tractor beams, and the beautiful ship slides to rest atop her specific birth. Several minutes later, Bee (in a spidercarrier) leads Kommetrez off of the ship and onto one of the waiting gravdiscs.

The glowing disc lifts off and hurtles upwards, swiftly carrying them to the diplomatic sickbay, and the awaiting transformation of Kommetrez the man into Kommetrez the Automata-designate.

We have always striven to uphold a strict code of discretion when dealing with Our allies. We withold specific need-to-know information, and frankly, only Nathicana and Angelus need to know about this whole event.

Talethian merely nodded, feeling no need for further assurances on either part, and having confirmed that the Angelans did indeed seem to operate similarly to the Dominion. Excellent.

He accompanies Blu to sickbay, anxious to see the results of their work.

Come to, Devon! Blu calls, a tone of concern carefully implanted in her voice. You passed out during the training, and We are curious as to why.

The man groggily blinks his eyes, attempting to gain his bearings.

"I ... I what?"

Blu extends her hand, and her personal gravetic field stretches to cover the top of the tank in a thin layer of null-gravity. It should be fine now. Moving through the field may give you a feeling of mild discomfort, but it will pass within three minutes.

Herb, and then Ivan, pulled themselves out of the Tank and floated into the Scarlet room with Steve.

"Ah, yes, this is much nicer." Ivan smiled. "Now, I, personally, am interested in two main subjects- how your engines work, and what construction methods you use. This Disc is enormous. Herb, you already mentioned an interest in the tractor beams, anything you'd like to add?"

"Ah... yes. Power generation. And maintenance. That reminds me, the Minos' fusion byproduct filters are due for cleaning... but never mind that now. I'm wondering where all the energy for this place comes from."

Steve suddenly looked rather worried. "I've just thought of something... I'm the only one who can leave this room without all of the air being crushed out of my lungs. And I don't have any great insightful questions, other than those that probably can't be answered anyway."

Herb did a backflip to look at him. "So?"

"So I'm probably going to get stuck with the physiology tests."

"Oh, suck it up. For any genetic modification, I'd have to donate the DNA sample. She'd said it would only be a surface scan, right Blu?"

"Ah, yes, this is much nicer." Ivan smiled. "Now, I, personally, am interested in two main subjects- how your engines work, and what construction methods you use. This Disc is enormous. Herb, you already mentioned an interest in the tractor beams, anything you'd like to add?"

"Ah... yes. Power generation. And maintenance. That reminds me, the Minos' fusion byproduct filters are due for cleaning... but never mind that now. I'm wondering where all the energy for this place comes from."

Steve suddenly looked rather worried. "I've just thought of something... I'm the only one who can leave this room without all of the air being crushed out of my lungs. And I don't have any great insightful questions, other than those that probably can't be answered anyway."

Herb did a backflip to look at him. "So?"

"So I'm probably going to get stuck with the physiology tests."

"Oh, suck it up. For any genetic modification, I'd have to donate the DNA sample. She'd said it would only be a surface scan, right Blu?"

Surface scan is correct. We would put you in front of a very powerful camera, and take pictures of your body. We would also do a brain scan, to get an idea of how your particular brainwaves function, and that would be all. No pain, simply the annoyance of remaining very still.

She floats out into the room, pulling her legs up under her into a lotus-position. Power production within the WorldDisc was always a problem until just shy of a hundred years ago when expiraments with matter/antimatter reactions proved successful in producing an efficient form of power.

The reaction of osmium/osmium antimatter proved to be the most powerful reaction, and thus it is universally used here in the Disc as Our source of power. There are six rather large generator facilities on the Disc, each working at 49% of capacity.

She smiles. I could go into details if you wish, but suffice it to say, that is the very brief summery of how it works.

As for production? That is an area that We are rather protective of, as the reproduction of it would be terribly unsettling to international commerce. We have thousands of mining stations all over the local stargroup, the furthers being nearly 20 lightyears out. From these mining facilities, we gain billions of tons of raw materials, which we use to manufacture everything you see here.

She spreads her hands, motioning towards the room. Everything you see here was once something else. You see, matter is essentially the same when perceived on the atomic level. The only thing that sets different forms of matter apart, are the atomic bonds that form to build an atom into a specific type of particle/molecule. Once those quantum bonds can be manipulated, one can transmutate anything into anything else. Of course, there are problems with density. A ton of led, transmutated, will not equal a ton of Osmium, for example.

As for production? Everything is built in layers, molecular layer by molecular layer. It is done amazingly fast as well.

"Large-scale nanoconstruction? Wow. Our only nanomachines are brownian motion collectors. And mining facilities 20 lightyears out... We use transmution, as well, but only for metals, excepting what comes out of the fusors. What about engines? Ours are various combinations of accelerator ion drives, electrokinetic cells, inertial engines for attitude control, and hall effect thrusters. Pretty basic stuff, really. But some of those ships o' yours look way too big for any of that to be practical."

The glowing disc lifts off and hurtles upwards, swiftly carrying them to the diplomatic sickbay, and the awaiting transformation of Kommetrez the man into Kommetrez the Automata-designate.
Mainframe Partition

Alshai gets the singular experience of watching his own brain being removed from his skull through someone else's eyes. "Actually," he says to no one in particular, "this is pretty creepy." Makes my scalp itch. Why did I volunteer to watch anyway?

Our drives are a combo of Gravetics and IonPulse. Using a solid mixture of the two, We can make even the largest of Our ships dance on a dime.

Of course, We use a spacefold/Farjump technique for FTL, but I am afraid that is classified.

The transmutation process is used in all facets of Angelan creation. Why change one metal into another before it is needed? We have collected over 60trillion tons of raw material in excess of what We have already used. It has all been refined and ready for use, and We continue Our mining operations to constantly produce more.

She gives him a slow wink. One can never be too prepared.

Alshai gets the singular experience of watching his own brain being removed from his skull through someone else's eyes. "Actually," he says to no one in particular, "this is pretty creepy." Makes my scalp itch. Why did I volunteer to watch anyway?

Kometrez watches as his brain is studied from every angle, eventually dissected, and studied internally. Finally, a large panel slides open in the far wall, and a large tube containing a fetus floats silently in an ectoplasmic goo.

> Begin bionic adjustment and implementation of construct/mind.
#Acknowledged, adjustment commencing.

He could FEEL it as well as hear it. He could feel part of his mind speakin in unison with the Mainframe, and he could feel parts of him begin to work with the whole in response to the commands. But who was issuing the commands? Who was pulling the strings? [internal] I am doing that also! But... how can this be?

Several mechanical arms extend into the goo and begin to work on the tiny fetus, adjusting the thermomolecular webbing attatched to the central nervous system that will eventually be his control net. The eyes are plucked from the fetus' sockets, and new ones are implanted, as well as the brain removed and the small construct/mind added.

After each procedure, the child is given a few minutes to grow, and several weeks pass in several minutes. The child grows, and the bionic implants grow with it, smoothly interfacing with the organic material.

# Adjustments complete, successful inorganic/organic interface complete
> Acknowledged. Commence growth.

Suddenly, the growth of the child in the vat takes on a rapid pace. In just under two hours, Alshai watches his childhood revisited in fast forward. He sees the child him grow into the young adult him, and then into the full adult. He watches the hairless boy with a strange mix of aprehension, until finally, the last commands come through the Mainframe.

# Growth achieved. Subject is now equivalent to a 30-year-old human male.
> Acknowledged. Commence hair growth.
# Commencing....... Complete. Successful completion of AK1 avatar achieved.

She gives him a slow wink. One can never be too prepared.

"Quite. We have the Foundries for the same reason. Never too many resources, never too much wealth. Your gravitors must be huge, but I suppose that's just a matter of building material available as opposed to technological ability...."

Steve floated about impatiently. "This is all very nice, and I'm sure you three find it very interesting, but could we get onto photographing me and taking DNA samples and stuff just so that I don't have to be all TENSE about it anymore? And afterward, I think I'd like to explore the Hub a bit... got 3 days till the launch window reopens."

"My Lady, if you will excuse me, I'll leave you to your work. I would like to see to my people, and remind them that they've yet to make the final cut." He makes a sharp bow, nods to Devon, and makes his way back via the discs to where they'll be calling home.

# Growth achieved. Subject is now equivalent to a 30-year-old human male.
> Acknowledged. Commence hair growth.
# Commencing....... Complete. Successful completion of AK1 avatar achieved.
Holy... fuck.

If he could blink in c-space, Alshai certainly would. Multiple times. While making random shapes with his mouth and the attendant odd little noises.

For Alshai Kommetrez, now Automata-Designate AK1, despite being a rational, intelligent, and generally quick-witted man is now completely and utterly boggled. Sitting idly (or was it so idle, what with now being one with the Mainframe, and the Mainframe doing the work?) by while watching what used to be the seat of one's consciousness gets cut into sections and then wafer-thin slices, followed by the mechanical manipulation and generation in maybe a few hours what would take unassisted biology decades and an entirely new set of rules, would tend to boggle anyone's mind.

Kommetrez, slowly regaining the capacity to think linearly, wonders for a bare instant whether this was such a good idea or not, then decides such questions are hopelessly outdated as There Ain't No Going Back Now. He then ponders the potential reactions of his friends back home and how he'd react to those reactions. The next link in the thought-chain is, naturally, the validity of those reactions.

So... I'm not actually human anymore. My mind can now do things that no human's could... and remain sane, and that body is something more-than--no, just different from, not greater or less--human.

Wow. I'm. Not. Human. Alshai toys with that in his mind. Does not equal. Human body, modified for sure, but human mind... I'm still me, right? But my mind is modified not just past human norms but past inherent human capability. Thus, not-human. Post-human maybe?

But I am still me. Born in a settlement in southern Egypt that never had a proper name, raised by loving parents, valedictorian of my secondary school, honor cadet at university, twenty-three years of dedicated military service to Scolopendra, thirty years of continued public service to the same. All very human, and I'm the sum total of that.

The sum total of that... all very human... and this... all very not-human.

So what the hell am I?

Steve floated about impatiently. "This is all very nice, and I'm sure you three find it very interesting, but could we get onto photographing me and taking DNA samples and stuff just so that I don't have to be all TENSE about it anymore? And afterward, I think I'd like to explore the Hub a bit... got 3 days till the launch window reopens."

Blu nods, and less than a minute later, a large spidercarrier walks up to the invisible line where the antigrav begins. Please come with me. It turns then and leads Steve onto another gravdisc. It lifts and travels through a thick maze of corridors, finally dropping out on Sickbay.

The Doctor looks up from the table where he is working on a Menelmacari child with a broken arm. "If you would wait just a moment?"

http://fantasyscifi.topcities.com/startrek/voyager/doctor/dilemma.jpg

Finally, he finishes administering a mild sedative to the child, and walks over to the Guildsman. "Good afternoon, I am Dr. Emtoo. What can I do for you?"

Finally, he finishes administering a mild sedative to the child, and walks over to the Guildsman. "Good afternoon, I am Dr. Emtoo. What can I do for you?"

"Well, I was kinda hopin' you'd know that. Uh, I think I'm here to do something for you. Physiological information and stuff. Surface scan pictures...?"

The doctor sighs. "Yeah, I figured that was you. What is with you floating people anyway?" He grins to himself. "Of course, that is what We are going to find out, now isn't it."

He turns and motions for Steve to follow him. He opens a panel in the wall, and opens the empty biotube situated there. "Well, go on. Get inside. Oh, and you will need this." He hands him a breathing implement and closes the door to the tube. "I hope he's not claustrophobic..."

The doctor moves over to an instrument panel and begins fiddling with the controls. A moment later, the tube fills with a clear biogel.