Interstellar Intrigue (FT, IC, Closed)

[Lotrabme]

Signup/OOC: viewtopic.php?f=5&t=317468

It is the year 1490 by Imperial Reckoning:
Reeling out of the Vultoberfest celebrations, the Chief Sage Emmanuel after a short break decided to call his Council together for a meeting with several emissaries from the outside world. He knew that outside the Bubble of the Greater Pulsar were several powers who could mutually benefit with an official peace and friendship. This was in part due to his increasing age (being 241 years old) and the associated desire to leave his house in order, and also to make a last ditch effort to line his pockets with the benefits of mercantilism.

However, his house was not all in order, and he knew it. Only 8 years ago a revolt called the Kuzemi incident shook the Council and the College of High Clerics, and left the Cadet House of Swigert-Aeluxon with a broken line, being filled by the lobotomized son of the Rebel and a more loyal cousin who harbors resentment for his House's fall.

Tao was beginning to show its strength again, Octavian II was no longer commanding as a Grand Admiral, having allowed his young clone successor Octavian III to take up the Proprietorship of the planet and conferred on him a Rear-Admiralty, essentially lining him up as his true successor, while his elder sons holding Vice Admiralty or positions in the clergy are hoping to carve out a piece of their fathers wealth for their own, and make themselves advisers under their younger brother.

San, homeworld of the Mallumans, as always was proving a double edged sword. Recently, a false arbiter had been put down and a faulty World Controller AI removed from it's position by an up and coming Malluman vice admiral Yonamee and the world was currently at peace. However the true Imperator-Arbiter who is currently residing on Hame has shown a distaste for this new Vice Admiral, preforming a task that as Imperator he should have seen to himself and distasteful of the recognition of such skill by the Chief Sage. However, the Gojir prophets have kept him on Hame for aims of their own, perhaps so that they on the College of High Clerics can continue to hold the real power.

Finally, on Hame itself he had his own family and that of his fellow sages to be concerned about. His two sons Paulos and Davyd each had large families of their own, and his grandkids and great grandkids were showing some governing prowess, however this was troublesome if some should decide to rebel. And why shouldn't they? After all, the three Hierarch Sages had essentially become a Council of Old Men (though Old men of extreme psychic prowess).

The progeny of Paulos were two primary sons with candidacy, Balazar Basilus and Robardos. Among the two Robardos showed much more ambition, and like his father was both psychically powerful and military minded, and held a Vice Admiralty. Balazar Basilus on the other hand was more clerical in mind, and honed only his psychic skills, while also remaining unassuming and protracted. Married to his brothers eldest daughter Juno, Balazar Basilus had a daughter and a son by her, and had numerous other children, while Robardos had 6 sons apart from Juno, but considered his daughter to be the wisest of his progeny. Davyd had 13 children by various mates, one singular Emmanuel the Younger proved to be a master psychic monk but a recluse, while Ezekiel and Adrian the younger sons were both in the Admiralty and had some psychic skill. Ezekiel had even married Madeline daughter of Balazar Basilus, who in her own right was a psychic Adept.

Among them Emmanuel saw his successors, but knew yet not who the College would select as Chief. He had his suspicions but made no open declaration of preference. His fellow Hierarchs also had dynasties under them: His Vice Sage Beetlejuice Benjamon and his Shadow Sage Nathaniel Fenry Satfiron both had large extended families of high psychic clerics and military potentials.

Among all these plots and concerns of various factions Emmanuel was considerate of what decisions would keep the Mind Empire stable. He had to appeal to the Merchants and the Hive Queens to secure favorable market interactions as well as consider the Theocratic whims of the College of High Clerics, and his assumption that foreign ambassadors come to the court of the Mind Empire to broker deals and extend the reach of the merchants would appease them was correct. Indeed both the Reverie and the College of Clerics were overjoyed at the idea. Now was only the beginning though, and as Emmanuel has sent invitations to some powers interacted with, he intends to await their arrival in his Orbital Citadel. White Noise, the security AI of the Hame system, would guide the envoys to the worlds harbors as they arrived....

[Hircus]

The ICH Gharl deposited the ICH Ambassadorial Entourage at the citadel. Ambassador K'tek ur Jaka, his party, Glimko is a Pelagian negotiator of interstellar treaties, Borkon a Bos Minos is a Arjagul(General) in Star Command and is K'tek's long time friend and his military advisor. There are three attendants to see to mundane tasks.

After an excellent first contact with the Mind Empire, the ICH is eager to continue with the diplomatic processes and the opportunity to meet more of the galactic neighborhood.

Ambassador K'tek glad to be on another mission and stretch his "Space Legs" and meet more andvanced peoples. He was afraid he was going to be assigned to a more primitive post. There are a couple of less advanced civilizations making efforts to work with the ICH. One K'tek feels is downright backwards and was concerned with contacting them. But, the planetary catastrophe that will face them without the help of the ICH and maybe others, their planet could be in great peril from an ecological disaster caused by their parent star. Overall he is in excellent spirits.

Glimko is never more at home than at the negotiating table. His last negotiation helped the ambassador in building a base and resupply base in Aeriodak.

Borkon's most difficult assignment was the overseeing of the closing of a embassy and base that we had established but due to alien bigotry had to be decommisioned. Borkon has developed a certain bitterness to the growing bigotry among some rambunctious human empires.

The group begins what should be an eventful assignment.


Background Information
ICH Gharl is a diplomatic variant of the Goral Class Destroyer. It is designed to carry dignitaries hold, diplomatic talks and conduct any activities that involve diplomacy, Including entertainment. It is equipped with many Holosuites to aid in make guests more comfortable. It is Commanded by Gul A'zal ur Shal, An experienced Gul who has aided the Fourth Order (Diplomatic Corps) on many occasions.

[Lotrabme]

IN ORBIT OF HAME: The Imperial Citadel:

Activity as always was frequent in the Orbital Palace when the Sage Council was present. The Custodian Guard's ceremonial companies did routine marches and practices for the parades, while some of their Commissioners discussed various battle tactics or assignments with some of the Malluman Honor Companies. The Majestine Order's HQ was within the orbital superstructures and thus some of their upper operatives were moving in and out as the day went on. The Legatine Order meanwhile pencil-pushed through with their bureaucratic upkeep and their meticulous ledger and paperwork.

For the Sage Council itself, the Chief, the Vice, and the Shadow were gathered in the main dome and speaking among themselves. The 'three old men' as many called them, all of them at least 200 years of age. They had dismissed the traditional 4 additional members of the Council to the College of High Clerics and would use and infrequent system of selection to chose 4 others to sit with them. This was a move of appeasement and of power control, to keep the High Clergy in the mindset of favor but at the same time favoring none above the rest.

Chief Sage Emmanuel was listening to his old friends jabber on about the upcoming meeting with the foreign diplomats, Beetlejuice Benjamon his Shadow speaking out in wary mind over the new arrivals, while Nathaniel Fenry his Vice spoke words of trust and securing allegiance.

BB: "They seem to be coming from all corners of the galaxy, we don't know their intent anyway."
NF: "You trouble yourself too much with plots and petty concerns that you don't participate in anyway my lord Beetlemon, I should hope you don't muck this all up for us."
BB: "Muck it up? I'm not the one rushing into some corporate deals with aliens who don't even understand the value of currency! Remember the Nebulans, the Ombroj and the Luuds, and how long peace with them took to broker?"
NF: "If you recall, the Nebulans joined our empire with common threat from both those powers, and as far as I can tell, we have not made war on any of these diplomats, indeed one is a new ally!"
BB: "That may be, but we need to check the waters, see if its temperate enough to not scald or freeze. You would jump into the kettle that would cook you for dinner!"
NF: "My feet are plenty steady Beetlemon! I don't have the rictus!"

With some amusement Emmanuel watched his two friends, some the last alive aside from members of his extended family, as they bickered a bit. He knew here in the soundproofed chamber they could afford to be sincere and rowdy with one another, but to the rest of the Empire, they had to appear as of one mind and body. He finally spoke to them:

"Gentlemen, if I may butt in, there will be diplomats arriving shortly, and we must compose ourselves. I agree with both of you, we must be cautious but accepting minds and open ears are needed for a mission of this scale. Let us also not forget our ultimate goal..."

The three of them would shout in unison: "PROFIT!" And after a brief arranging of straggling hair by Beetlejuice Benjamon, the three would exit the room, Emmanuel and Nathaniel standing, while Beetlejuice rode his ceremonial hoverthrone. While Emmanuel would require one, he did have cybernetic advancements used on his legs to re-invigorate his strength, and he thought that to many, a walking Chief Sage would appear more intimidating.

Sure enough, right as they exited the room a holographic projection of a ghostly head would appear. Emmanuel would greet it politely "Ah White Noise my friend, have any of our guests entered the system?"

"One has my Lord, it is the ICH Gharl of the Hircine delegation."

"Splendid" said Emmanuel to the other Sages, "Our surefounded allies from the Imperial Confederation of Hircus have arrived! Please escort the Gharl to the nearest appropriate hangar White Noise, make our guests feel at home, and send the Ambassador to us! We will be in the Duskside Ballroom."

"Of course your Holiness" said White Noise reverently as the three sages went to the Ballroom.
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Ambassador K'tek and his party would receive this message from a ghostly figure:

Code: Select all

To the Hircus Ambassador:
Greetings and Salutations from the Sage Council of His Holiness Emmanuel Vulcon, Chief of the Council.
 The ICH Gharl has been given coordinates to lead it towards the nearest available docking port to the Duskside Ballroom, where the Convocation of Ambassadors will be held. Please proceed with said coordinates, and a Service AI will be waiting to greet you. Welcome to Hame.
--- White Noise, IL series Artificial Intelligence, Defense and Harbor-Master of Hame and its orbital well. 

Receiving this, the Hircine ship would be lead to a docking bay near to the edge of the Citadel, though a bit of a walk from the Ballroom in question, whos roof could be seen glistening in the starlight of Hamsol, the yellow-orange star of the system.

When the Ambassador and his fellows would disembark, a small orb-shaped android would float towards them, with two diagonally arranged eyes, it spoke:

"Greetings! And welcome to Hame, the Center of the Mind Empire! I am Halman 8, designated as your guide. If you have any questions feel free to ask me as I have access to the appropriate data. My current mission is to escort you to the Ballroom where my Lords are awaiting your presence."

[Whitecloud]

Blinding Starlight emerged from the warp some distance from the Citadel, her foremost shield pockmarked by the microcollisions she had sustained en route. She had given herself such a wide berth in order to adjust her bearings; her auxiliary jets reoriented her such that her main thrusters faced the Citadel. Flying backwards as she now was, she was able to decelerate from her current near-lightspeed velocity to something more reasonable. Once her excess speed had been bled off, she was able to fall into orbit around Hame at a fixed distance from the Citadel itself.

Inside the ship, a multitude of processes were going on at once. The ship was scanning both the planet and the station above it, recording things like gravitational pull and atmospheric composition. The ship's pilot, of the same name, was being brought to full awareness by the ship's automated computer systems. And in the heart of the vessel, a small, fluid-filled tank held the unfinished body of the diplomat who had initially been invited. The body was unfinished for a reason, of course: Starlight needed to know what kind of environment the convention was taking place in if she was to create a form for her leader that would survive in it.

The ship remained in orbit for a total of seven minutes before responding to the greeting of its host. After five minutes, the embryo that was to be Parting Storm had completed its physical development. An additional minute was spent injecting the body with a mixture of plasmids containing the code for all of Storm's knowledge and personality, and waiting for the fluid to force their quick expression. The last thing to do, and the fastest, was to impose a map of the electrochemical signals that made up Storm's last recorded state of consciousness onto the unconscious form. This done, the flametongue jolted into awareness. When the fluid drained from the tank's interior, he released a breath he had been holding since his storage. There was no light inside the chamber, but the insectoid could observe his own body through echolocation. He gave a few rapidfire clicks and grinned.

“The humans' atmosphere... certainly is popular,” he panted, not yet used to speaking with lungs. Storm pulled open the door and stepped outside. The ship's interior was quite cramped. Storm could barely spread his normal wings in here; his new form's much larger ones were out of the question. Still, he managed to crawl his way over to the locker where his clothing was stored, retrieve it, and don it. Wearing his diplomatic attire, he resembled a toy robot with a flametongue's head and claws poking out. Nearly his entire body was covered with angular white plastic, most of which consisted of storage compartments. The four on his arms were empty, while the four on his legs contained thermoses of predigested food slurry. He had learned over the course of his interactions with humans that his normal method of eating was considered uncouth.

Once he had dressed himself, Storm made his way to the shuttle that would be taking him to the Citadel. In the tiny room adjoining the shuttle's only door, Starlight had constructed a physical form for herself as well. Her external appearance mimicked Storm's exactly, except that her head and claws were also of an inorganic nature.

“What, in case I'm feeling extra hungry?” Storm teased, glancing at the panels on Starlight's limbs.

“I live to serve,” the AI replied, smiling back.

“Speaking of which, what is your hierarchy process set to?”

“This iteration of me has only the base process and a database with the necessary information for the mission at hand.”

Storm nodded thoughtfully. “That makes sense, I suppose. I probably copied over a base process in my rush to avoid arriving late. So you haven't had a chance to adapt the decision tree yet?”

“That is correct.”

“Good. Keep a priority of 1 set to my commands, but assign a priority of point 6 to the commands of other organics.”

“Anything to the commands of other AI, sir?” she replied, having already made the adjustments.

Storm did not respond immediately. “Tough question. It depends on the status they occupy in their respective societies. Do you have anything in your memory about the Mind Empire's relationship with artificial intelligence?”

“Not much, but their factbook makes reference to a “world controller” AI. It would seem as though the process of control requires a subservient of some kind.”

“A reasonable induction. All right, if you should need to interact with another AI, I want you to assign them a priority of zero by default, but immediately activate the default process' threat assessment routine, and if the routine places them above you, react according to the base process.”

“Understood. And if the routine places me above them?”

“Keep the priority at zero. Don't react according to the base process. You are allowed to consider any information they provide to you, but you are not allowed to make any demands or otherwise attempt to subjugate them.”

“Not a very ethical way to behave, is it?” Starlight commented.

“It's an abhorrent way to behave if you ask me,” Storm replied offhandedly. “But the humans have consistently shown that they like it. And even if our hosts aren't fully human, you can be certain they'll act like they are.”

“Nothing in the database would contradict that,” the AI nodded.

“No, of course not. I wouldn't be surprised if every other lifeform on that Citadel expected that kind of behavior from us. Equality is a very common sentiment, Starlight. In the grand scheme of the broader universe, we are the oddities, not them.”

“Understood, sir. I'll adapt the process with that in mind.”

“Good. One other thing before we go. I want you to save your experiences with these people in a separate location from your decision tree. I doubt the hierarchy you develop will be very adaptive once we return to Whitecloud. It will be easier to consolidate you by deleting it entirely.”

“I look forward to its removal, sir. I only wish your own mind could be so easily modified.”

With that, the AI opened the door to the shuttle and stepped inside, sliding up against the far wall to make room for her organic superior. Once they were both strapped in, Starlight sent a command to the ship's automated systems, and the shuttle was detached from the larger craft. The communications with White Noise guided the shuttle to the appropriate hangar, where it touched down with a grace unmatched by the other diplomats' larger craft. A final test was done to make sure that the conditions were suitable for Storm's current body, and the door on the side of the shuttle hissed open. Storm was first to disembark, being closer to the door, and did so with a cautious deliberation reflective of the high gravity. Starlight was less careful, and nearly tripped in her rush to escape the shuttle's cramped interior.

[Lotrabme]

With that, the AI opened the door to the shuttle and stepped inside, sliding up against the far wall to make room for her organic superior. Once they were both strapped in, Starlight sent a command to the ship's automated systems, and the shuttle was detached from the larger craft. The communications with White Noise guided the shuttle to the appropriate hangar, where it touched down with a grace unmatched by the other diplomats' larger craft. A final test was done to make sure that the conditions were suitable for Storm's current body, and the door on the side of the shuttle hissed open. Storm was first to disembark, being closer to the door, and did so with a cautious deliberation reflective of the high gravity. Starlight was less careful, and nearly tripped in her rush to escape the shuttle's cramped interior.

As Parting Storm and Blinding Starlight entered the interior docking room a floating orb with a singular Blue Eye would approach them. It spoke to them, with some help through translation software if needed.

"Welcome to Hame Your Grace, I am Blue Shade, logistic tactician to the Sage Council and your designated guide." It said assuming that Your Grace was close enough approximately to Parting Storms official title. "This is the central world of the Mind Empire, if you have any questions please ask me, as I have access to the relevant data. We must be on our way however, as my Lords have been expecting you."

Noticing the caution which Parting Storm displayed and Blinding Light's slight trip it inquired "If I may ask, is there any way we could help you be more comfortable here?"

[Whitecloud]

Parting Storm and Blinding Starlight followed the little drone wherever it led them. Both of them had full knowledge of the English language; Storm by an injected plasmid, and Starlight by a simple download and installation process. Translation would therefore only be necessary if English was not the preferred language of their hosts.

“Hello Blue Shade,” Storm replied. “I am Storm, and this is my loyal servant Starlight.” The AI scrutinized the floating sphere, still running the threat assessment program that would determine how she reacted to its presence. “We are honored to be allowed so close to your... homeworld. Your Citadel is most impressive. A work of artistic engineering if ever there was one.”

When the drone asked how it could make them more comfortable, Storm paused to consider the question. Starlight showed no such hesitation and spoke up immediately. “He's walking like that because he's not used to the strength of your gravity or the thinness of your air.”

Storm stumbled slightly and cracked a smile. “Please forgive my assistant. She has not had time to acclimate herself to the subtleties of diplomacy yet.”

“This body is well adapted to the conditions of your Citadel. Starlight has done admirably in that regard. I am simply accustomed to inhabiting a form more suited to my homeworld. I will adjust quickly; there is no need to accommodate me any further. Indeed, it is much more comfortable here than in our starship. How you have managed to include so much open space in your design is beyond me.” As if to accentuate his point, the flametongue unfolded his wings from a port on the back of his suit and fanned them gently.

[Hircus]

(Ambassador K'tek) Thank you, Halman 8, we appreciate your service and will got to the ballroom straight away. Borkon signal Gul A'zal that all is well and we are headed to meet with the representatives.

(Arjagul Borkon) Immediately, I'm curious if the other delegates will be as gracious as our hosts.

(Negotiator Glimko I am sure the room will be fraught with bravado and like posturing. Borkon, you will feel right at home. ---snicker---

(Ambassador K'tek) Ha! We can only hope. I can't wait to see who shows up. Halman 8 lead on and let's get started.




Background Information
K'tek is smart, Inquisitive, and likeable.

Glimko is a typical tall slender Pelagian from the Class O waterworld of Pelagus

Borkon is a large imposing figure of species.

[Lotrabme]

"I am glad to hear and see it" said Blue Shade as Storm spread his wings stretching. He said "And I appreciate the complements towards the Citadel, though it is to be expected, the architects of this orbital palace were some of the best which the Haman race could offer and build if you count the AIs involved. I should know, I was there after all." He said with a bit of a chuckle.

He shortly remembered his task however "If you are ready to follow me, we must travel to the Duskside Ballroom, that is where the Sages are awaiting us!" He exclaimed excitedly as he directed the Flametongues to follow him into the hallway.

Halman 8 would likewise be leading the multi-species party from Hircus down a similar hallway. The Hallways both would traverse were mostly cylindrical, with some ovular lighting here and there along the sides of the walls, and with as much space as any 12' by 12' room. It was clear that these hallways despite their cleanliness and artistic design were designed with easy access and zero-gravity in mind, especially since after a short glance, one would notice the room looked the same upside down as it did the way they were walking along it.

Both parties would be lead out of the tunnels after a 6 minute calm walk by their respective guides into separate larger hallways through a set of automatic double doors. The hallways they would enter were much more ornate, seeming to be designed with pleasure of sight and comfort in mind. Surprisingly, the station itself was not possessed of artificial gravity. The 1.1 gs experienced on the station were accurate to the planets surface, due in part to the geosynchronous orbit of the space elevator to which the citadel was attached. Therefore, on the Citadel, rooms could be designed as they were planetside, unlike on the Colonial Starbases where the gravity was in donut proportions, and on the myriad vessels of the Mind Empire where cylindrical gravity was the norm.

The two parties would travel in separate hallways until they both came unto a great half-circle shaped room with a large double-door guarded by two Haman Custodian Guards in ceremonial armor both standing on either side of an Unon Haman in green and orange clothing, and a tricorn Hat. All three were holding Halberds. The two AIs, Blue Shade and Halman 8 would greet eachother with a flash of their eyes, before they returned to their parties to tell them where they were.

To Storm and Starlight, Blue Shade would inform them: "We have arrived at the entrance to the Ballroom, as with anywhere the Sages are located, the Knight of Oz, that fellow in green, is stationed with a group of the Custodian Honor guard to keep them safe. He will grant us entrance to the chamber."

To K'tek and his companions, Halman 8 would say: "We have come to the Ballroom doors. Behind the Knight of Oz and his lieutenants is the Sage Council, and all the other guests that have come to see this assemblage of Ambassadors."

The Knight of Oz would then speak "Greetings Delegates, The Sages are almost prepared to greet you, when they give me the signal I will lead both parties in."

"Who will proceed before the other?" asked Blue Shade "Only one party at a time can fit through the door, and it makes it more orderly."

"I'm not sure" said Oz, "though I supposed since the Flametongue Delegate is the head of State, I should allow them to enter first and be announced first. I apologize Ambassador K'tek if you take any offense to this, the Mind Empire holds our nations' friendships in great esteem, but our protocol dictates this recognition of rank."

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MEANWHILE.... In the Ballroom:

The three Sages standing together in the center of the Circular and domed Ballroom were like 3 ships in a sea of courtiers and servants. Both the Sages presence alone in a semi public setting was enough to draw many of them out, but with all the Ambassadors arriving this day it was enough to bring hundreds of ranking spectators. Among them the High Cleric Archbishops and Bishops were decked out in their Autumn Season robes of rich color, with much gold and bronze thread inlaid. The Custodian Guard Knights of the Noble rank who were currently off duty were gathered in their ceremonial spacesuits with the various heraldry and awards they had won in duels or in true battles.
Some of the Admiralty had come out as well, in particular Thor II, Grand Admiral and Polemarch of the Armada (sort of Chief of Staff/Supreme Commander) and Octavian III the heir to his clone-father's Grand-Admiralhood, but as with the military rank, he would have to ascend from Rear-Admiral. Paulos, elder son of the Chief Sage who was an Admiral sat near his father and the other two sages with his own son Robardos a Vice Admiral. Meanwhile another Royal Vice Admiral Ezekiel Eustace stood on the side with his wife Madeline, who was dressed along with many of the other Psychic Adepts of the Monasteries in Black and dark colored silks and cloths.

Paulos would walk forward towards his father, to which Lord Beetlejuice turned and glanced with raised eyebrow "Whatsup Kid?"

"My Lord" said Paulos reverently, though with an air of familiarity, "May I speak to my father?"

"You may of course" said Lord Emmanuel turning and patting Lord Beetlejuice lightly on the shoulder. Emmanuel knew there was a vague acquaintance between the two, though it was marred with mistrust. Due in part to the alliance between Paulos and Lord Beetlejuice's prodigal grandson, his namesake Beetlejuice III Benjamon. Emmanuel also recognized this figure lurking in the background speaking with some other mischievous members of the court. Lord Emmanuel would say to his son "What is it then?"

"Father, the anticipation is stiring the crowd, I recommend we bring in whatever Ambassadors have arrived. Also, I meant to ask how the seating arrangements for their entrance will be."

"Of course I'll get on that Paul, I will have Oz bring them in soon. But for the seating arrangements... hmm.. I hadn't given it all too much thought other than me Beetlemon and Fenry..."

"Might I ask that I sit beside you father? And have Robardos beside me?"

"Where is your eldest son?" said Emmanuel glancing around the room, "did he not come?"

"He is here father, let me go get him."

"You may sit with Robardos on Beetlemon's side of us, but I want Balazar, Ezekiel and Madeline on Fenry's side. Thor II will stand behind me and the other Sages. That is my outline, otherwise it's up for grabs."

"As you wish father." said Paulos bowing his head as he turned to start organizing everyone, understanding Emmanuel's intent to begin letting the Ambassadors in.

In the room there as a short staircase before great doors opposite the entrance the Ambassadors would use. Atop this short staircase were placed three seats, upon which (left to right) Lord Beetlejuice, Lord Emmanuel, and Lord Nathaniel would sit, surrounded by the more important courtiers, while the other spectators would gather on the second floor balcony. Apart from the 3 Sages and some of their immediate companions sitting nearby, Beetlejuice III would come forward and stand beside Robardos and Paulos, joined by the Landlord-representative of Edom (the nearest Portworld) and 3 Nebulan Hive Queens with some of their males. On Lord Nathaniel and Balazar's side would come to stand with Vice Admiral Ezekiel and Adepta Madeline the Malluman Imperator-Arbiter Tarya'Natar Phoee, his trusted Gojir Prophet Morlaya Merlanxee, the Archbishop-Abbott of the Greater Temple Hector VI Ogon, the Archbishop of the Balazar the Blessed Temple Paul VI Sardon with his valet the relic-keeper Ralphus VIII, and the Rear Admiral Octavian III of Octevon-Vulcon. As stated prior, Thor II the Polemarch and Grand-Admiral would stand behind the seated Emmanuel.

The Chief Sage would send a psychic message to the Knight of Oz, requesting that the Ambassadors be brought in.

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OOC: I am awaiting a response from both Hircus and Whitecloud before we proceed. In regards to seeing the station, eachothers parties, and the arrangement of the entrance.

[The GalacticEmpire]

As the Imperial shuttle exited hyperspace, Alina sighed. She not only had to preform well in front of her father, but the Emperor himself. Her inner monologue was cut short by her father. "We will be landed soon." he said plainly as the ship ship sent out a transmission to the citadel below.

Code: Select all

"This is the Imperial shuttle craft, the ESS Master, carrying ambassador Alina, grand moff sev, and Emperor Palpatine, requesting permission to dock."

Palpatine himself was looking forward to this, things have been dull ever since the rebellion was crushed, and he needed something to do. He figured he would observe his head diplomat and his daughter, he wanted to make sure his diplomatic fleet was in good hands after all. He grinned as they where getting ready, thankfully he did not have to deal with such things as he was on vacation at naboo, currently taking a sip of his drink and reading his favorite book. "Thank the force for holograms" he thought.

[Lotrabme]

Code: Select all

"This is the Imperial shuttle craft, the ESS Master, carrying ambassador Alina, grand moff sev, and Emperor Palpatine, requesting permission to dock."

The message was received by White Noise the AI, who quickly replied.

Code: Select all

ESS Master, I have sent you the necessary coordinates and path to dock with our shuttle-bay. The Sages will meet you in the Duskside Ballroom, and you will be escorted there by one of our Service AIs. Please proceed. Welcome to Hame.
- White Noise, IL series Artificial Intelligence, Defense and Harbor Master of Hame and it's orbital well. 

The Shuttle craft would come to an interior hangar, a shuttle bay just large enough to hold it. The Ambassador, the Moff, and the Emperor-Hologram would come outside and be greeted by a two diagonally eyed orb named Salz 7. As they would exit and come into the shuttle bay, it would greet them:

"Welcome to Hame! The center of the Mind Empire. I am Salz 7, your appointed guide and escort. If you have any questions just let me know, for I have access to the relevant data. My Lords are waiting to greet you, and some of the other Ambassadors have already arrived!"

[Whitecloud]

Storm accepted the Knight's greeting with a silent nod.

Starlight observed the Hircine delegation briefly before introducing herself. “Greetings. Ambassador K'Tek, I presume.” She had no idea who the other two were, and didn't want to look uninformed by making a wrong guess. “We are the Whitecloud delegation. I am Starlight, navigator and overseer for the flametongue leader, Parting Storm.” She indicated the organic with one arm. “I will be happy to assist any delegation, not merely our own. Any mundane tasks that you feel would be unbefitting a high ranking diplomat such as yourself, you may feel free to give to me instead. I live to serve.”

“Thank you, Starlight,” the flametongue said, “but it's just Storm. There is no need for such formality between... equals.”

“Of course,” Starlight murmured, logging her superior's reaction for consideration in future judgments.

When it was suggested that the flametongue enter first because of his rank, he gave a few uncomfortable sounding coughs before replying. “Please. Among my own kind, I may possess the highest rank, but here I am only the Mind Empire's guest. If it is any sign of status to be introduced first, I believe it should go to the Ambassador. From the sound of it, he has done more to deserve it than I.” As he spoke, he unconsciously retracted his wings as a sign of submission.

Starlight, seeing an opportunity to ease her leader's future interactions, addressed the Knight more frankly. “It is easier for a flametongue to behave in a manner you would call civilized when he believes himself the inferior party. Your flattery is appreciated but misguided.”

“Uh... yes. Well said, Starlight.” The AI smiled to herself in response to the praise.

[Neornith]

A sleek white ship flashed out of the deeper reaches of space, its smooth curving forms held the deadly beauty of a finely crafted blade. directional and slowing thrusts popped along its hull as the ship righted its direction as well as safely slowing its speed down.

Citadel this is I.C.S.S Vortex, we will be launching a shuttle shortly to proceed to your destination.

As the ship slowed to a stop, a smaller shuttle launched from its docking. Inside the shuttle a short red feathered figure stood near a viewing panel, his chocolate colored eyes seemed to carefully study the Citadel as the shuttle drew closer and closer to it.

“Something troubling you Ambassador?” asked the much taller figure, black feathers covered the top two thirds of the larger avian, his leg feathers though that could be seen under the sky blue military cloak were a bright white in contrast to the top of him.

“No my old friend.” replied Ambassador Rythor to the Commodore “Its been sometime since you and I played the grand diplomacy game though.”

“Are you afraid your mind has grown dull during your absence from the diplomatic corps?” Commodore Hancioth said in a half jest to lighten his friends mood somewhat.

“No its nothing like that.” said Rythor with a slight chuckle “I’m just not sure if I want to deal with all the ass kissing again, ever since the Consortium left GESO its been almost a relief not to have to deal with leaders and diplomats from other nations.”

“You know that Avlana can ill afford to sever relations from potential friends just as well as I do though.” replied Hancioth

“Yes I know I know.” Rythor said with a slight wave of his hand “Orlaka Empire waiting to pounce from the borders and all that fun stuff.”

Hancioth frowned slightly at the remark, as a member of the military houses and recently returned from guarding the Skylandia system he saw first hand the orc raids that remained a prevalent threat to the population there, raids that had been for the most part discounted as nothing more than a disorganized force than actual military elements of the Orlaka Empire.

The shuttle began to slow down as it approached the large space station. the pair along with their small and lightly armed marine contingent waited as the shuttle landed with a slight shudder followed by the all clear from the pilot.

“Well my friend.” stated Rythor with a half smirk as the doors to the shuttle opened. “Are you ready for the grand dance once more?”

[The GalacticEmpire]

The Emperor and his Ambassadors followed droid to the ballroom. As they walked, well in Palpatine's case, hovered. He asked the AI something.
"Will there be any other great Empires attending such as mine?"
he said politely. Alina and the moff followed the Emperor, making sure not to interrupt him. He went back to talking after watching his diplomats cower behind him with a smile.
"I have not conducted diplomacy with this part of the universe, until recently. So i am not aware of the political landscape, i apologize for my lack of knowledge." He said still wearing that smile.

[Lotrabme]

"You don't say" said the Knight of Oz considering this information. "What do you make of this Blue Shade?" he asked their accompanying AI to this party. Blue Shade replied "Well... according to the sparse data we have gathered from the Flametongues home, perhaps it would be wise. Their societal structure is complex and the nuances are not fully understood by us."

"Hm, very well, and I suppose it would be more appropriate to allow our Hircine allies to come first, and I believe the Sages would be pleased to see them first. So Ambassador K'tek, you should come to the front, Glimko and Arjagul Borkon follow behind him. In any case, both of your parties are the first."

After briefly spacing out, the Knight of Oz says to both groups: "Lord Emmanuel has summoned us in, get ready everyone!"
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"Any Empires as great as yours?" queried Salz 7, attempting to think about the specifics of what he meant. They continued walking from the maintenance halls into the greater interior halls.

Salz 7 would reply after a short moment "Well, in terms of the number of systems you possess, I believe you are on the top of the list. However, that is the only thing I can truly compare as I am not aware of the technological prowess of your people. I believe in terms of regional influence here however, the Mind Empire, the Interstellar Commonwealth of Hircus, and perhaps others like Avlana, have the greatest pull and strength. In truth, one of the reasons my Lords decided to implement this meeting was to figure out just who was around and how we can strengthen our alliance bonds with them."

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Citadel this is I.C.S.S Vortex, we will be launching a shuttle shortly to proceed to your destination.

White Noise would reply to this message as he had to the others.

Code: Select all

 To the I.C.S.S. Vortex, your shuttle is being sent the proper coordinates to our docking bays. As for your larger vessel we will hold it in tractor beam so it will not go astray. Please follow the coordinates to the given area, an AI escort will be provided for you. Welcome to Hame.

White Noise, IL series Artificial Intelligence, Defense and Harbor Master of Hame and it's orbital well.

As the shuttle flew into the docking bay, they could see they were near the Galactic Empires shuttlecraft. There was by the door a 3 red-eyed orb. This was Ezar 6, who had been provided as a guide. Seeing the Avlanian Ambassadors exiting their craft. He would fly over to them and greet them.

"Welcome to Hame, center of the Empire." In a somewhat monotone voice. "I am Ezar 6, your designated guide. Feel free to ask me any questions you may have, as I have been given access to the relevant data. My Lords request your presence in the Duskside Ballroom, so we must be on our way."

[The GalacticEmpire]

"Ah thank you, this information was most helpful." Said Palpatine, soaking in the information like a sponge, it might prove useful at some point. "Anyway, shall we meet up with the others now?" Said the Female Ambassador as she walked along side the Emperor and the AI. Grand moff Sev looked worried. If Alina messed up Palpatine would not only punish her, but him as well. He prayed that things go smoothly he walked up next to his daughter.

[Hircus]

(Ambassador K'tek) "It is acceptable to us to let them go first. The people of the ICH have grown past the need to be pompous and are not offended."

The ICH delagates will be gracious and unassuming. They admire the artistry in the design of architecture of their host. Glimko will look and study the mannerism of the delegates and seeking out any tells in the movements and mannerisms of all the delegates at the conference. K'tek will be friendly and talk to and greet any delegate that passes by.

As they enter K'tek will offer greetings to the host and the assemblage.

(Ambassador K'tek) " We are honored to be here and look forward to opening the closed doors and enter want is becoming a larger galactic community."
(He does a respectful bow with his hand across his chest which is typical of Hircines to greet others. Leaving out the traditional head butt that would follow.)

[Lotrabme]

Salz 7 would continue on, leading the 3. He would reply to Ambassador Alina: "Of course! We are nearly to the door, two other Ambassadorial parties are being brought in."

The party would come to the door just as the Knight of Oz was returning. When he saw them he said "Ah welcome, please stand beside me I will lead you in in just a moment."
(OOC: continued at the bottom.)
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Meanwhile, the two Ambassadorial parties would be brought in. Despite the modesty of Ambassador K'tek, the Hircus delegation was put in front. The Knight of Oz would lead ahead of all, behind him the two parties would line up.

He would lift his Halberd into the air and knock once on the large double-doors, which would then open automatically with a pleasant tone. They would open to reveal the Duskside ballroom, and the great assemblage of people, namely the three Inner Sages sitting upon their seats atop the first level of stairs at the other end of the room. The knight of Oz would lead in for about 10 feet before stepping aside and allowing the two Ambassadorial parties to continue on, announcing who they were to the Sages. "The Delegation from the Interstellar Commonwealth of Hircus, lead by Ambassador K'tek. The Delegation from Whitecloud, lead by Parting Storm their Sovereign."

The appearance of the three Sages was a curious thing, and would tell one something about them. All the Hamans in the room wore various robes of many colors. The current season called for rich robes. The Lord Beetlejuice wore black and white vertical stripes in his robes, and had his dull and greying blonde hair all about the place on his head. He also took the extra step of painting his face, something which made him look ghastly. Lord Emmanuel wore Blues and Golds with some black trimming, and a black over-cape with gold designs. He was the more regal looking, and wore a sort of Baroque-Mullet design. Lord Nathaniel wore very simple Black with green trim robes and had his grey-white hair in dreadlocks and a beard-mustache. Of the three, Lord Nathaniel was the most imposing, being almost as large as the Malluman Iyns standing around such as the Gojirs and the Imperator, this being due to Anton's Key, a pituitary mutation. Combined with his excess upper body weight he looked like he was inflated near the top. Lord Emmanuel and Lord Beetlejuice were by stark contrast rather gaunt and frail looking, though still near 6 feet in height. This was in part due to the trend among the ancients to devote most of their time to psychic mediation rather than bodily care.

(Ambassador K'tek) " We are honored to be here and look forward to opening the closed doors and enter want is becoming a larger galactic community."
(He does a respectful bow with his hand across his chest which is typical of Hircines to greet others. Leaving out the traditional head butt that would follow.)

As Ambassador K'tek, Glimko, and Borkon approached the Ambassador would make his greeting before the three seated Sages. Lord Emmanuel would speak to him. "It is such an honor to finally meet members of the Hircine Commonwealth. Ambassador K'tek, your greeting is warmly accepted."

Turning to Parting Storm and Blinding Starlight Lord Emmanuel said. "And you must be Parting Storm of the Whiteclouds, Welcome to Hame."

Speaking to both of them he said: "I am the Chief Sage of the Mind Empire, Lord Emmanuel of the House of Vulcan. Beside me are by Vice Sage Lord Nathaniel Fenry Satfiron, and my Shadow Sage Lord Beetlejuice Benjamon. Together we form the inner Sage Council. Surrounding us are many members of our Higher Eschelons, come to see this gathering."

The Knight of Oz would then announce: "The Delegation of the Galactic Empire, with Ambassador Alina Sev, and a holographic transmission from their Sovereign Emperor Palpatine." As the three of this party would come to the center of the room, Lord Emmanuel would also greet them: "Welcome Ambassador, Majesty, Moff. I am pleased to meet another delegation of an Empire we have had no contact with before. As shall be the case with many others."

Turning to the now three gathered Delegations Lord Emmanuel would say: "We have had sparse contact with powers outside of our own Nebular Bubble, the Bubble of the Greater Pulsar. Indeed the only power which is arriving today that we have previously established contact with is the ICH. I have sent invitations here for the express purpose of establishing diplomatic ties and trade routes to your respective political entities, wherein we can further prosperity for all of our accumulated races. In addition, if you have any goals to discuss with me I and my fellow Sages would be glad to hear it."

[The GalacticEmpire]

Alina was the first to speak up. "The Galactic Empire, has and always will stand for Peace and Prosperity for all, no matter the costs. And we wish to help you all in this quest. If you ever need a military or economic ally the Empire is open to helping you." Palpatine smiled as the ambassador said the lines perfectly. Palpatine himself spoke up after her. "We also would like to warn you, against the powers that wish to undermine Universal peace. The cult known as the order of the Jedi wishes to impose their beliefs and religious fanaticism upon all law abiding nations. But the Galactic Empire has taken a stand against them, and our brave soldiers chase the Jedi across the Universe. So we encourage you to either report sightings of them to the Empire, or join us in our quest to foil their foul plans. Thank you for listening, and that is all for now." The Emperor said sitting back down and taking a sip of his Nabooian wine.

[Whitecloud]

The flametongue smirked at the Hircine's naive insistence that he go first, and again at Lord Emmanuel's chosen honorific for him. Even the humans he was used to dealing with, who were certainly not shy about reminding the flametongue of his inferior status, had come to address him by his proper title. Rather than be offended by such blatantly incorrect behavior, the flametongue took a perverse kind of pleasure in it. The aliens' offhand mistakes reminded the flametongue of his place.

“Please, it's just Storm, sir. Parting Storm is what my subjugates call me. I will gladly respond to that name... if and when it becomes applicable.” He eyed the Haman intently.

Starlight, meanwhile, was listening to and recording the names and ranks of all the other Mind Imperial officials. It was far beyond a flametongue's capacity to keep track of that many relationships, the species having evolved in a considerably less social environment. But Starlight had no such limitations, and indeed it was part of her intended function to compensate for her leader's weaknesses.

Both the flametongue and the AI turned to look at the newly arrived Galactic Imperial delegation, Starlight's gaze lingering a bit longer as she memorized their identities. Neither greeted them aloud, however, and they quickly turned their attention back to their host.

“It is good to hear you lay out your intentions so clearly, sir,” Storm said, after waiting for the Haman to finish his introduction. “It would be an honor to enter into any sort of ties at all with such an... advanced civilization as your own. Whatever good or knowledge you lack – and we can provide – I would be happy to strike a deal over. But this may be difficult without knowing what that lack of yours is. So if you will allow me to be frank in asking: what exactly is it that you want?”

As the flametongue spoke with the Haman, Starlight listened raptly to the Emperor's speech. Despite her apparent incompetence, she was more than smart enough to see his words for what they were: shameless propaganda. Nevertheless, once the Emperor was done talking, the AI approached his party with the look of a curious child.

“I hope you'll forgive the intrusion, sir, but your warnings have piqued my interest. Can you tell me more about these... Jedi? What, exactly, are these foul plans of theirs, and how can I recognize them?”

[The GalacticEmpire]

The flametongue smirked at the Hircine's naive insistence that he go first, and again at Lord Emmanuel's chosen honorific for him. Even the humans he was used to dealing with, who were certainly not shy about reminding the flametongue of his inferior status, had come to address him by his proper title. Rather than be offended by such blatantly incorrect behavior, the flametongue took a perverse kind of pleasure in it. The aliens' offhand mistakes reminded the flametongue of his place.

“Please, it's just Storm, sir. Parting Storm is what my subjugates call me. I will gladly respond to that name... if and when it becomes applicable.” He eyed the Haman intently.

Starlight, meanwhile, was listening to and recording the names and ranks of all the other Mind Imperial officials. It was far beyond a flametongue's capacity to keep track of that many relationships, the species having evolved in a considerably less social environment. But Starlight had no such limitations, and indeed it was part of her intended function to compensate for her leader's weaknesses.

Both the flametongue and the AI turned to look at the newly arrived Galactic Imperial delegation, Starlight's gaze lingering a bit longer as she memorized their identities. Neither greeted them aloud, however, and they quickly turned their attention back to their host.

“It is good to hear you lay out your intentions so clearly, sir,” Storm said, after waiting for the Haman to finish his introduction. “It would be an honor to enter into any sort of ties at all with such an... advanced civilization as your own. Whatever good or knowledge you lack – and we can provide – I would be happy to strike a deal over. But this may be difficult without knowing what that lack of yours is. So if you will allow me to be frank in asking: what exactly is it that you want?”

As the flametongue spoke with the Haman, Starlight listened raptly to the Emperor's speech. Despite her apparent incompetence, she was more than smart enough to see his words for what they were: shameless propaganda. Nevertheless, once the Emperor was done talking, the AI approached his party with the look of a curious child.

“I hope you'll forgive the intrusion, sir, but your warnings have piqued my interest. Can you tell me more about these... Jedi? What, exactly, are these foul plans of theirs, and how can I recognize them?”

The Emperor swirled in his chair to face starlight, his yellow eyes somehow managed to be visible through the hologram. He smiled sweetly and replied "These Jedi are the ones who have left me scarred, and deformed, i was once quite a good looking man in my prime, and now i am a withered husk. But i am devoted to my cause, which it to protect my people from the religious dogma of the Jedi. They seek bloodshed, and power. One of their own named dooku, led the separatist movement, nearly destroyed the Empire, which was at the time, known as the Galactic Republic. When one of their own informed me of this plot i was able to mobilize the army to deal with this threat, but not before they tired to assassinate me. When we destroyed their Temple they scattered. The worst part was, that some of them managed to sway senators to their cause! Between the corruption and the Jedi, the Republic was dying, and i was given the job to resurrect it. I rebuild the Republic in the form of a Empire, ruled by the people and for the people. My speech was long and i will spare you the details. If you wish to hear it, then take this." The Emperor said as a card appeared from the holostation. The card was transcribed with the Emperor's speech. Palpatine continued to smile and said. "Is there anything else i can do for you?" He said as the Ambassadors sat behind him, chatting among themselves, and waiting for something to happen.

[Whitecloud]

“Oh, I'm terribly sorry about that. I had no idea you were disfigured.” At first, the AI wondered why any organic creature would choose to retain an injury for any length of time. Flametongues that got damaged usually wanted to restore to a previous body ASAP. But then she realized that the Emperor's appearance was probably designed to elicit sympathy for his side of the conflict. Those awful Jedi would even hurt an old man(!), she assumed the implication was.

Not that it wasn't working. Though Starlight's logical processors kept her from mentally siding with anyone until she actually encountered one of these Jedi, her emotional processors did indeed generate some sympathy for the Emperor. Crushing rebellions was something she and Storm had to worry about all the time.

“Thank you for the information. I'll keep an eye out.” If she ever did meet a Jedi, she would try to learn why they had split off, and what their true intentions were. But if it turned out that they were just insolent rebels defying the rightful power structure, she would have no problem turning them in.

[The GalacticEmpire]

“Oh, I'm terribly sorry about that. I had no idea you were disfigured.” At first, the AI wondered why any organic creature would choose to retain an injury for any length of time. Flametongues that got damaged usually wanted to restore to a previous body ASAP. But then she realized that the Emperor's appearance was probably designed to elicit sympathy for his side of the conflict. Those awful Jedi would even hurt an old man(!), she assumed the implication was.

Not that it wasn't working. Though Starlight's logical processors kept her from mentally siding with anyone until she actually encountered one of these Jedi, her emotional processors did indeed generate some sympathy for the Emperor. Crushing rebellions was something she and Storm had to worry about all the time.

“Thank you for the information. I'll keep an eye out.” If she ever did meet a Jedi, she would try to learn why they had split off, and what their true intentions were. But if it turned out that they were just insolent rebels defying the rightful power structure, she would have no problem turning them in.

"Thank you for listening to this old man's rantings." The Emperor said, returning to his book. The female ambassador saw them speaking and walked over. "Is everything alright over here?" she ask

[Whitecloud]

“Yes, quite alright madame,” Starlight replied. “Your superior was just telling me about your current political opponents.”

Her mechanical eyes twitched slightly as she observed the Ambassador's facial expression. “I take it your job is to make sure no one bothers your leader. I apologize if I was wasting his time.”

[Lotrabme]

“It is good to hear you lay out your intentions so clearly, sir,” Storm said, after waiting for the Haman to finish his introduction. “It would be an honor to enter into any sort of ties at all with such an... advanced civilization as your own. Whatever good or knowledge you lack – and we can provide – I would be happy to strike a deal over. But this may be difficult without knowing what that lack of yours is. So if you will allow me to be frank in asking: what exactly is it that you want?”

"Well Storm" said Emmanuel "that is a much layered response alone. The wealth of a dozen systems makes sure we want for little, but ours is an ever curious race. We want to know what is out there, who is out there. This meeting was set forth to establish it."

Storm and the other delegates could see Lord Emmanuel was a patient and well mannered man, at least among the Hamans. He was a light speaker, not quiet but not resounding across the walls either. It was then that Lord Beetlejuice spoke, his voice however was much more voluminous: "Everyone come out of the rafters, you may leave or come and speak freely."

A command with his voice that drew many in the crowd to their own dwellings but brought some down from the balcony and into the fray of conversation. There were some who desired to speak with the Ambassadors. Lord Beetlejuice however would then speak to Storm alongside his chief, the two of them getting up from their thrones to come to his level. Lord Beetlejuice said to Storm: "We are ancients among our people, us three councilors. Its part of why we hold the post, but our reigns will not last forever."

"Indeed" said Lord Emmanuel "And with this in mind, my intent is to leave a stable situation for my successors whoever they may be. It is the matter of that succession as well that some factions of the court may attempt to sway your ear. I suggest to you.. AND to anyone else listening" he said louder to that at least Ambassadors K'tek and Sev could hear "that if you pick sides you pick them wisely."

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

Over to where Ambassador K'tek was the third Sage Councilor, Lord Nathaniel, had made his way, as well as the Polemarch Thor II. The two giant Hamans greeted the Ambassador with nods of the head.
"Greetings Ambassadors, Arjagul" said Lord Nathaniel politely in his wizened voice. "Borkon" he said "Might I introduce our esteemed Polemarch of the Fleet, veteran of many wars, the Grand Admiral Thor II."

"It is an honor to meet a General from Among our allies" said Thor II. This Haman had a stately presence about him, he stood not so tall as Lord Nathaniel, but the mere size of him especially in the outfit he wore made him seem like a statue. And despite his own age (being similar to that of the three sages, nearing 230) he still had black hair, though in likelyhood he dyed it to appear more youthful here.

The Lord Nathaniel said to K'tek and Glimko "so what do we owe the honor of having you as our representatives? And do you have any messages from the Commonwealth government to relay to us?"

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

Meanwhile in the back of the room, Octavian III a short skinny black haired Haman was walking alone for a moment, when suddenly Robardos came up to him. "Well cousin, aren't you going to step forward and speak to someone?"
"I haven't had much of a chance yet Rob" he said "I am kind of interested in meeting those Flametongues though, they're so interesting looking."
"They look an awful lot like Manticores to me" said Robardos "Old mythical beasts of ancient legend, figured some races had to."
"Take the Hircines for example" said Octavian pointing out their own mythological counterparts in biological form.
"Indeed, indeed. Well hopefully we can ally ourselves well with the Flametongues as well. This parting storm fellow seems agreeable. And I see my Grandfather and uncle Beej are speaking with him."
"You ought to show more reverence for our sovereigns Rob."
"And YOU ought to refer to me as SIR! I outrank you remember?"
"I suppose that's true Vice Admiral, anyway whats your game? Do you have some plot you intend to bring these foreign folks into?"
"My father has a plan, he's speaking to the Imperator right now to see if he is up for it. I'll let you know more about it later. Your own father the Old proprietor might do well to contact mine sometime soon as well."
"really..." said Octavian wondering at what was being held in mind.

Meanwhile, Paulos and the Malluman Imperator were speaking to one another, not looking unusual as the other Mind Imperials not engaging the Ambassadors in conversation were speaking among themselves. However the content was much different.
"So thats my plan." said Paulos, finishing a sentence that ran on for some time.
"I see...." hissed the Imperator "I'm sure I can rally the large clans behind it, we haven't had a good fight in a long time. But what about your father? I doubt he'd approve."
"Your Excellency, You don't know that" said Paulos "I know my father, and I know I can make this come off as a means to his own ends."
"Very well" said Tarya'Natar, who rubbed his reptilian chin "But it better go off without a hitch."
"It's just a proposition, nothing more, if he agrees he agrees if he doesn't we just have to wait till he dies."
"That could easily be another century" said Tarya'Natar "He thinks he's old but hes not."
"I think he means to transcend before that." said Paulos looking at his father from across the room, with a face that looked of concern, but for who none could say.
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To the Emperor and Ambassador Sev's party came the Bishop-Prince Balazar, along with his daughter and son in law/cousin Madeline and Ezekiel. The three of them, experience psychics, were interested both in this Emperor, who even through holographic images was found to be possessed of a powerful ghost. They were also interested in meeting this AI Flametongue.

"Excuse me" said Balazar politely as he could to the Ambassador Alina and the Emperors hologram. "I could not help but sense that your Emperor has a great psychic aura about him. I was not aware of other psychic human powers."

Meanwhile Ezekiel and Madeline both walked up to Starlight. Madeline said "A robotic form, how delightful." Ezekiel spoke next curiously "Your kind has had contact with Humanity before? Where were they, and are they part of your society?" He asked because of Storm's mastery of English (which had evolved somewhat over the Millenium into Imperial Inglis, but many of the words were still understandable).

[Whitecloud]

“Pick sides wisely... you needn't worry about that, sir. Our kind has well learned the value of prudence.” The flametongue gave a humorless laugh.

“I am glad to hear of your curiosity toward other races. In fact,” he bowed his head, averting his gaze from the Haman, “it is because of that sentiment that any of us are still alive to meet you. As you may know, our first contact with another species was not an amicable one. The humans' mindset was alien to us, and ours to them. In many ways this is still the case.”

Storm clicked his mouthparts together as if chewing on something. “Almost immediately we became embroiled in conflict with them. We saw each other as monsters, incapable of ever reconciling our differences. But unlike the monsters in our stories, the humans' superior strength couldn't be overcome through teamwork or clever tricks. They were simply too fast for us. We lost our one colony within the first few months. In the course of fighting, we never found their homeworld. But they found ours.”

“There is no doubt in my mind that they had it in them to destroy us completely.” The flametongue raised his head again, looking Emmanuel in the eye. “Do you know why they didn't? Not out of any moral compunction or respect for the value of sapient life. No, they told us why. We were a... curiosity to them. They believed it would benefit them more to keep us alive, and study us. Which we had little choice but to allow.”

Storm took a deep breath, shuddering a little toward the end of it. “I hope we still hold their interest a hundred years from now.”

“I apologize if I started to prattle on there. The point I'm getting at is that our species has lost its privacy. There is nothing we can conceal that is worth arousing the humans' ire over. So when I say I will indulge any curiosity you have, well, it's not an exaggeration.”

“Ask away.”

---

Starlight turned to face Madeline and Ezekiel upon being addressed. “That is my purpose,” she nodded in response to Madeline's comment.

“Yes, we have met humanity. We don't know where they came from; we only ever saw their ships. As for whether they're a part of our society,” the AI considered this. “They're not a part of the hierarchy if that's what you mean. Storm's at the top of the hierarchy, and all the humans we know are above him. But they do interact with us.”

“Whitecloud, the planet I come from, has a lot of space stations, research centers, and habitats in orbit around it. It's one of the ways we try to get around overcrowding. One of those stations is owned, not by us, but by a group of humans that live there permanently. They find our species fascinating, so they call us up all the time to talk to us and learn from us. Storm and I both have multiple backups on that space station.”

Starlight didn't mention that the station also had a planet-killing orbital weapon as its main structural component. She didn't know how close these Hamans considered themselves to their parent race, and there was no need to scare or offend the two.