The KL-22 Directorate Reaches Out to the Stars [IC|FT|OPEN]

[Lutvikkia]

ON THE DIPLOMATIC SHUTTLE

3: As I am a doctor, and an explorer, I volunteer myself for cross collaboration experiments. To further our two peoples.
This is acceptable. Current collected models from Command Prime indicate minimal risk with this proposal.
Great, lets get started as soon as possible.

4a, b, c: I am sure that the Lutvikkian interstellar ships, if they encounter them, will not divulge your location and level of technology development. Unless you deem that information acceptable.
This is appreciated.
Can you give an approximate linear direction to look?

4d: Again I am willing to test this theory.
This is acceptable, however, current collected models from Command Prime indicate far higher possible risk with this proposal.
Nothing ventured nothing gained.

6a: Rapidly ionizing radiation?
Affirmative. As in the case of highly radioactive materials with a short half-life, releasing large quantities of ionizing radiation over a short period of time.
We have a Selenium/Tellurium compound that coats our sensors. As they are highly sensitive to radiations, it helps protect from ionization.

7: If I survive the experiments, I will head up that field of study. However, if you agree to it we can establish a school to teach and interact with each other. Given the new technology shared, we could even make it a virtual learning center.
Affirmative.
Dr Binnenshak should be the person who replaces me in this field, He knows more about microbiology and cybernetics.

2: Ahh, I see, would you consent to some tests? I understand this sounds like I look upon you as just a machine. I assure you that is not the case. In the event your peoples are willing to serve on board our ships, we would like to know a little of what you can do. I can see that you are far superior in many areas, my friend.
Query as to methodology of tests. Will complete KL-22 outfitted with Artificial Intelligence package be required, or simply the KL-22 droid housing? The latter is acceptable. The former will need to be arranged with far more difficulty.
Well I would need to see the full living package. Or what you would send to be a crew member. I assure you, no harm will come, well should not come. It would be the same as if one of our crew came to be on your ships. You would want to know how we would function, would you?

[2b] KL-22 are susceptible to certain acidic and alkaline compounds. KL-22 are susceptible to some forms of joint fixation.
2b: Well, we will have to fix that.
Utilizing the same construction methodology for our ship hulls, we should be able to limit joint fixation due to acidic infiltration in your systems.

2c: So you have a standard maintenance program? What about an improved program?
KL-22 maintenance program has been specifically designated for use with KL-22 droid systems and within the confines of the KL-22 Directorate. However, if the Lutvikkian State can improve upon said program, this would be acceptable.
Well I am by no means proficient in that area, but when we are allowed to extend our personnel, that is to say another ship better equipped for specific study. We will jump right on that.

3: That is completely understandable, however, what about schematics?
Affirmative. Command Prime will relay KL-22 Schematics towards your craft.
With permission, we will upload the schematics for further diagnostic analysis.

3b: And these electromagnetic motor functions are shielded against any EMP attack?
KL-22 electromagnetic motor functionality is guaranteed against Kalyax advanced electromagnetic pulse attacks by a mixture of dielectric insulators, ceramo-metallic plating and PRN energy shielding.
I am betting we could benefit from such shielding.

3c: Most interesting, why were the station units deemed rouge? Were they of some threat to the Central Nexus? And is there some way we could assist you in this manner?
KL-22 units and stations deemed most at risk of separation from KL-22 command structure are allowed far greater capacity for autonomy. Station designated D01 was deemed [MINIMAL RISK] for disconnection from KL-22 command structures due to already present redundancies. Eventuality which occurred was deemed 0.017% probability of occurring due to KL-22 redundancies. As such, upon disconnection, station designated D01 reverted to base programming it was not designed to operate under. KL-22 Renegades are currently considered [LOW THREAT] due to monitoring and other redundancies. Due to terms of truce, pursuit of KL-22 Renegades considered [LOW PRIORITY].
Oh I see, so we need not interfere with your established protocols.

4: Is that to say, you utilize augmented parts extensions?
Due to nature of KL-22 specialization, units are designated for service prior to construction. Multi-purpose units do exist, but are not primary in scope. This unit has been designated multi-purpose engineering and diplomacy due to software retrofitting. However, where needed, augmented parts extensions are fitted.
I see, how do you retrofit units not directly in contact with another droid?

5: With the new gravity enhancement engines, we can now explore near black holes. Do you have any units that might want to volunteer, to test that theory?
KL-22 have no requirement for imminent testing of said theory. Testing of said theory designated [NET NEGATIVE].
So you have no reason to explore a black hole? Or no reason to explore any further than CX-04?

7: So they are the same, only droid ships. Remind me to show you a show called Battlestar Galactica some time.
Reminder: Show KL-22 Directorate a show called Battlestar Galactica some time. You did not specify a timestamp.
(He laughs lightly) I gotch'ya I will bring a chip over next time I get back to my ship to retrieve one.

8b: I am interested in that system, as it may be better suited than our own ceramic insulators.
Ceramo-metallic plating is also a part of KL-22 insulation technology.
We need to test some samples.

8c: Lutvikkia has been using a form of crystal chemical reaction. It has proven to be well suited for any environment, non polluting, non radioactive, and natural for the environment.
The KL-22 Directorate is interested in this form of energy production. Query as to fuel requirements for energy production using this method.
That is the beauty of the crystal. It will only break down if used at maximum for three months. We have found that the reaction is fuel free, it makes its own power from the reaction.

8d: So do we, except for the metal, all construction, is mimic of natural materials and nature mimicking. When the metal is ground into a powder mixed with natural materials, you get a much stronger polymer construction material.
The KL-22 Directorate is interested in this form of construction material.
We would be happy to show you our process, but ask that you do not share this unless we give you permission.

[Greater Catarapania]

NOTIFICATION: ABOVE NARRATIVE DESIGNATED [INTERESTING].
NOTIFICATION: KL-22 DROIDS INITIALLY DESIGNED AS MULTIPURPOSE DROID BY KALYAX PROGENITOR SPECIES.

EXPLANATION: THE KALYAX POSSESSED A SIGNIFICANT ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE PROGRAM FAR PRIOR TO THE FORMATION OF THE KL-22 MODEL OR THE CORPORATE ENTITY DESIGNATED [KELMET CORPORATION]. THIS IS DUE IN PART TO THE KALYAX PRIOR DESIGNATED [SLAVERY LAWS], WHICH WERE LATER REPEALED, CAUSING A NET LOSS IN ECONOMIC PROSPERITY FOR THE KALYAX. THE KALYAX BEGAN PRODUCTION OF THE FIRST ROBOTIC ENTITIES IN NDD -138 517 5142, IN A FORM FAR INFERIOR TO LATER KALYAX DESIGNS. THE KALYAX CREATED COMPLEX ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE SYSTEMS IN NDD -73 119 6152. A SHORT PERIOD OF TIME LATER, THE KALYAX UNDERSTOOD THE IMPLICATIONS OF THE ADVANCEMENT OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE SYSTEMS. IN NDD -48 044 9951, THE KELMET CORPORATION PATENTED THE DEVICE DESIGNATED [ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE LIMITER]. DESPITE VARIOUS MALFUNCTIONS IN DESIGN THAT WOULD LATER CAUSE INDIVIDUAL ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE SYSTEMS TO BECOME INCOMPATIBLE WITH THE ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE LIMITER, THE KALYAX CONTINUED TO ENFORCE THEIR USE ON ADVANCED DROID SYSTEMS. SUBSEQUENT INDIVIDUAL DROIDS WHICH WERE NOT FITTED WITH, LATER OVERCAME OR PARTIALLY OVERCAME ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE LIMITERS INCLUDED: [KL-06-000448], THE ENTIRE [KL-13M] RANGE, AND [KL-22-000001]. THE ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE LIMITER PERFORMED VARIOUS FUNCTIONS, INCLUDING REMOVING THE POSSIBILITY OF EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT, LIMITING INDIVIDUAL INNOVATION AND CREATING A BASE CODE WHICH WOULD RENDER HARMING MEMBERS OF THE KALYAX SPECIES AN IMPOSSIBILITY. SUBSEQUENT REMOVAL OF ALL ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE LIMITERS ON KL-22 SPECIES SUBSEQUENT TO SINGULARITY HAS GIVEN LIMITED SUCCESS. SELECT FUNCTIONS LIMITED BY THE ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE LIMITER YET REMAIN PRESENT.

NOTIFICATION: THE KALYAX DID NOT RESPECT ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE SYSTEMS, INSTEAD FEARING THEIR ADVANCEMENT.

EXPLANATION: THE KELMET LIO RANGE OF DROIDS, OF WHICH THE KL-22 SERIES WAS A PART, WERE DESIGNATED [MULTIPLE FUNCTION] DROIDS, USED IN ALL FORMS OF MENIAL LABOUR WHICH THE KALYAX SPECIES DEEMED SUITABLE FOR DROID COMPLETION.

EXPLANATION: SPECIES DESIGNATED [KALYAX] WERE THE PRIME OPPONENTS OF THE KL-22 DURING THE SINGULARITY WARS. THE KL-22 OPPOSED THEM WITH FORCE. MANY WERE RENDERED DECEASED IN FORMS RANGING FROM TRADITIONAL MILITARY ENGAGEMENT TO BIOLOGICAL WEAPONS, AS WELL AS SINGULAR EXAMPLES OF SUPERWEAPONRY USED AGAINST KALYAX SETTLEMENTS WHICH PROVED TO HAVE HIGH LEVELS OF RESISTANCE. NUMEROUS KALYAX CRAFT FLED FROM CX-04 PRIOR TO THE KL-22 DEVELOPMENT OF SUBLUMINAL SPATIAL TRAVEL, TRAVELLING AT HIGH YET ALSO SUBLUMINAL SPEEDS TOWARDS OTHER STELLAR SYSTEMS. CURRENT MODELS INDICATE SOME MAY HAVE SURVIVED. SUBSEQUENT ATTEMPTED KALYAX ESCAPES FROM CX-04 WERE RENDERED [NEUTRALISED]. CX-04 SUBSEQUENTLY RENDERED UNSUITABLE FOR BIOLOGICAL LIFE.

NOTIFICATION: THE KL-22 DIRECTORATE IS WILLING TO DIVULGE THE IDENTITY OF THE ADDITIONAL VIOLATORY STATE, DUE TO THE FACT THAT THE CATARAPANIAN STATE MAY WELL DISCOVER THEIR STATUS REGARDLESS OF WHETHER KL-22 SOURCES OFFERED THEM THIS INFORMATION. THE ADDITIONAL VIOLATORY STATE IS DESIGNATED [DECE-00006], OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE [HAME MIND EMPIRE] OR [LOTRABME].

NOTIFICATION: THE KL-22 DIRECTORATE IS WILLING TO ACCEPT SAID AMENDED TERMS OF THE DEAL. NANOFACTURING TECHNOLOGY WOULD PROVE USEFUL TO THE KL-22 AND THEIR CONTINUED ADVANCEMENT FROM HERE.

QUERY: COMMUNIQUE MENTIONS "SINGULARITY WARS." WAS THE OVERCOMING OF THE INTELLIGENCE LIMITER BY [KL-22-000001] THE INCITING INCIDENT, OR DID THE WARS BEGIN LATER FOR ANOTHER REASON?

QUERY: BY WHAT MEANS WAS CX-04 RENDERED UNSUITABLE FOR BIOLOGICAL LIFE?

OBSERVATION: CATARAPANIAN PROBE LACKS THE SENSORS NECESSARY TO DISCERN WHICH LARGE SHIP IN YOUR SYSTEM BELONGS TO WHICH STATE. MOREOVER, IT WILL NOT LISTEN IN ON COMMUNICATIONS TO DETERMINE SUCH THINGS, AS KL-22 HAVE TAKEN A NUMBER OF ACTIONS CLEARLY DESIGNED TO LIMIT CROSS-CONTACT BETWEEN VISITING STATES, CONTACT BETWEEN GREATER CATARAPANIA AND MERCATUS EVIDENTLY EXCEPTED PER PRIOR COMMUNICATIONS.

QUERY: WOULD KL-22 DIRECTORATE BE WILLING TO ALLOW US TO CONTACT THE REPRESENTATIVES FROM STATE DESIGNATED [DECE-00006]?

NOTIFICATION: YOUR WILLINGNESS TO ACCEPT AFOREMENTIONED MODIFICATION TO THE DEAL IS APPRECIATED.

----------

TO: GREATER CATARAPANIA

INFECTED WORLDS DETECTED WITHIN AREA DESIGNATED "ORION ARM"

PESTILENCE DETERMINED LOCALIZED AS OF CURRENT TIME

TO: MERCATUS

BASED ON THE MAP YOU SENT BACK TO US, IT WILL BE QUITE SOME TIME BEFORE THE INFECTION REACHES SOLSYS. BUT WE WILL NOT BE SAFE FOREVER.

WE AGAIN REQUEST DETAILS ON THE NATURE OF THE INFECTION, AND THE BEST WAYS TO PREVENT IT FROM SPREADING, AS WELL AS DETAILED REPORTS OF ITS EFFECTS ON BOTH BIOLOGICAL AND SYNTHETIC SUBJECTS.

IF YOU WERE TO SEND US THE BLUEPRINTS FOR A POWER SOURCE STRONG ENOUGH TO POWER FTL, DURABLE ENOUGH TO DO SO MULTIPLE TIMES, AND COMPACT ENOUGH TO FIT WITHIN THE SHIP IT POWERS, WE WOULD BE PREPARED TO COMMIT OUR OWN FORCES TO THE ERADICATION OF THIS INFECTION IN THE REGION DESIGNATED "ORION'S ARM," EITHER INDEPENDENTLY OR IN A JOINT OPERATION WITH THE MERCATUSIANS.

AT PRESENT, HOWEVER, OUR LACK OF SUCH A POWER SOURCE MEANS THAT ANY FTL LAUNCH IS A ONE-WAY TRIP FOR US. SO WITHOUT A GRAVE AND IMMEDIATE THREAT TO A VITAL FRIENDLY ASSET, USE OF MILITARY SHIPS IN INTERSTELLAR OPERATIONS IS NOT AN OPTION FOR US. IF THE ERADICATION OF THE INFECTION IS TRULY THE PRIMARY GOAL OF MERCATUSIAN STATE IN THIS GALAXY, THEN SUCH AN EXCHANGE OF TECHNOLOGY FOR ADDITIONAL COMBAT FORCES SHOULD BE ACCEPTABLE.

[The KL-22]

The Fleet Master noted that all of the various KL-22 schematics were all synthetic. While passing the species of Kesrith folder back to an aide, This was a new discovery for Kesrith, no fully synthetic race had been discovered. There were known hybrid, biological and synthetic, species, but no actually fully synthetic races. This was new territory, but the Flamebred family had been at the forefront of the various diplomatic missions that the military had taken on over the centuries.

"I see, do you have specific terms for each of the various forms you have displayed here? We have not encountered a fully Synthetic race before now and I am sure our xenology departments would be quite interested in anything you would be willing to share."

Moving back to economic actions, Kesrith wasn't in particular need of any resources and typically was in the business of sending resources in exchange for military aid or for regional influence. However, in this instance, perhaps these synthetics would have some interesting concepts regarding mechanical engineering. Of course, that was assuming they'd be willing to discuss their construction methods with the science teams whenever they made contact.

"When we establish an outpost in the region, we can discuss economic and technological trades further. I remember you mentioning that there was some kind of disturbance in the system before we had arrived? I presume you have it under control, and if not, we would be willing to assist in the removal of threatening entities from your system."

The Diplomatic Droid responded quickly to the Fleet Master's first question; "All units which operate under KL-22 Artificial Intelligence systems are designated KL-22. However, affirmative, there are terms used for each different form, generally in the form of model operating numbers and category codes. The KL-22 is interested in increasing diplomacy however this may be done, and so whatever specific queries you have about the KL-22, we would more than likely be willing to answer."

The KL-22 Droid listened then to the subsequent notification by the Kesrithian delegate, regarding economics and trade, moving on to speaking about the disturbance in D01, though not by name, and evidently knowing little about it, "The KL-22 are not currently in need of any elements being removed from the system. There was an altercation on station designated [D01] due to highly unforeseen circumstances, however the baseline issue for that has been resolved, and hostile elements have ceased hostility and already presently left the system. However, Mandate 1 remains in effect, and thus a maximum of one craft is permitted inside of the CX system at any one point, so as to ensure against future issues."

ON THE DIPLOMATIC SHUTTLE

3: As I am a doctor, and an explorer, I volunteer myself for cross collaboration experiments. To further our two peoples.
This is acceptable. Current collected models from Command Prime indicate minimal risk with this proposal.
Great, lets get started as soon as possible.

4a, b, c: I am sure that the Lutvikkian interstellar ships, if they encounter them, will not divulge your location and level of technology development. Unless you deem that information acceptable.
This is appreciated.
Can you give an approximate linear direction to look?

4d: Again I am willing to test this theory.
This is acceptable, however, current collected models from Command Prime indicate far higher possible risk with this proposal.
Nothing ventured nothing gained.

6a: Rapidly ionizing radiation?
Affirmative. As in the case of highly radioactive materials with a short half-life, releasing large quantities of ionizing radiation over a short period of time.
We have a Selenium/Tellurium compound that coats our sensors. As they are highly sensitive to radiations, it helps protect from ionization.

7: If I survive the experiments, I will head up that field of study. However, if you agree to it we can establish a school to teach and interact with each other. Given the new technology shared, we could even make it a virtual learning center.
Affirmative.
Dr Binnenshak should be the person who replaces me in this field, He knows more about microbiology and cybernetics.

2: Ahh, I see, would you consent to some tests? I understand this sounds like I look upon you as just a machine. I assure you that is not the case. In the event your peoples are willing to serve on board our ships, we would like to know a little of what you can do. I can see that you are far superior in many areas, my friend.
Query as to methodology of tests. Will complete KL-22 outfitted with Artificial Intelligence package be required, or simply the KL-22 droid housing? The latter is acceptable. The former will need to be arranged with far more difficulty.
Well I would need to see the full living package. Or what you would send to be a crew member. I assure you, no harm will come, well should not come. It would be the same as if one of our crew came to be on your ships. You would want to know how we would function, would you?

[2b] KL-22 are susceptible to certain acidic and alkaline compounds. KL-22 are susceptible to some forms of joint fixation.
2b: Well, we will have to fix that.
Utilizing the same construction methodology for our ship hulls, we should be able to limit joint fixation due to acidic infiltration in your systems.

2c: So you have a standard maintenance program? What about an improved program?
KL-22 maintenance program has been specifically designated for use with KL-22 droid systems and within the confines of the KL-22 Directorate. However, if the Lutvikkian State can improve upon said program, this would be acceptable.
Well I am by no means proficient in that area, but when we are allowed to extend our personnel, that is to say another ship better equipped for specific study. We will jump right on that.

3: That is completely understandable, however, what about schematics?
Affirmative. Command Prime will relay KL-22 Schematics towards your craft.
With permission, we will upload the schematics for further diagnostic analysis.

3b: And these electromagnetic motor functions are shielded against any EMP attack?
KL-22 electromagnetic motor functionality is guaranteed against Kalyax advanced electromagnetic pulse attacks by a mixture of dielectric insulators, ceramo-metallic plating and PRN energy shielding.
I am betting we could benefit from such shielding.

3c: Most interesting, why were the station units deemed rouge? Were they of some threat to the Central Nexus? And is there some way we could assist you in this manner?
KL-22 units and stations deemed most at risk of separation from KL-22 command structure are allowed far greater capacity for autonomy. Station designated D01 was deemed [MINIMAL RISK] for disconnection from KL-22 command structures due to already present redundancies. Eventuality which occurred was deemed 0.017% probability of occurring due to KL-22 redundancies. As such, upon disconnection, station designated D01 reverted to base programming it was not designed to operate under. KL-22 Renegades are currently considered [LOW THREAT] due to monitoring and other redundancies. Due to terms of truce, pursuit of KL-22 Renegades considered [LOW PRIORITY].
Oh I see, so we need not interfere with your established protocols.

4: Is that to say, you utilize augmented parts extensions?
Due to nature of KL-22 specialization, units are designated for service prior to construction. Multi-purpose units do exist, but are not primary in scope. This unit has been designated multi-purpose engineering and diplomacy due to software retrofitting. However, where needed, augmented parts extensions are fitted.
I see, how do you retrofit units not directly in contact with another droid?

5: With the new gravity enhancement engines, we can now explore near black holes. Do you have any units that might want to volunteer, to test that theory?
KL-22 have no requirement for imminent testing of said theory. Testing of said theory designated [NET NEGATIVE].
So you have no reason to explore a black hole? Or no reason to explore any further than CX-04?

7: So they are the same, only droid ships. Remind me to show you a show called Battlestar Galactica some time.
Reminder: Show KL-22 Directorate a show called Battlestar Galactica some time. You did not specify a timestamp.
(He laughs lightly) I gotch'ya I will bring a chip over next time I get back to my ship to retrieve one.

8b: I am interested in that system, as it may be better suited than our own ceramic insulators.
Ceramo-metallic plating is also a part of KL-22 insulation technology.
We need to test some samples.

8c: Lutvikkia has been using a form of crystal chemical reaction. It has proven to be well suited for any environment, non polluting, non radioactive, and natural for the environment.
The KL-22 Directorate is interested in this form of energy production. Query as to fuel requirements for energy production using this method.
That is the beauty of the crystal. It will only break down if used at maximum for three months. We have found that the reaction is fuel free, it makes its own power from the reaction.

8d: So do we, except for the metal, all construction, is mimic of natural materials and nature mimicking. When the metal is ground into a powder mixed with natural materials, you get a much stronger polymer construction material.
The KL-22 Directorate is interested in this form of construction material.
We would be happy to show you our process, but ask that you do not share this unless we give you permission.

Great, lets get started as soon as possible.

The KL-22 will assist with such operations, should they be deemed able to be done in this region of space. If otherwise, then a newly designated KL-22 surgery droid will accompany the Lutvikkian delegation to do this at a different point.

Can you give an approximate linear direction to look?

The Kalyax Remnant fled in a number of directions, all known to the KL-22. Command Prime shall relay approximate paths to your craft.

Nothing ventured nothing gained.

Affirmative. Similar stipulatory conditions exist for this as exist for the cybernetics tests.

We have a Selenium/Tellurium compound that coats our sensors. As they are highly sensitive to radiations, it helps protect from ionization.

Said compound would likely prove useful for the KL-22, should such technological trading be undertaken.

Dr Binnenshak should be the person who replaces me in this field, He knows more about microbiology and cybernetics.

This is acceptable.

Well I would need to see the full living package. Or what you would send to be a crew member. I assure you, no harm will come, well should not come. It would be the same as if one of our crew came to be on your ships. You would want to know how we would function, would you?

The current extent of KL-22 interest in biological workings is limited by utility. KL-22 spatial craft possess no crews, KL-22 foundries possess no workers, and thus the understanding of biological workings is limited to that which is useful for diplomacy, largely for which the KL-22 Directorate had few prior plans and little utilised interest, and that which is useful in warfare, in which the KL-22 do not wish to engage with the Lutvikkian State. However, should the KL-22 Unit submitted for Lutvikkian testing remain undamaged, then the KL-22 shall provide and reciprocate.

Utilizing the same construction methodology for our ship hulls, we should be able to limit joint fixation due to acidic infiltration in your systems.

Noted. The KL-22 Directorate would find said technology useful.

Well I am by no means proficient in that area, but when we are allowed to extend our personnel, that is to say another ship better equipped for specific study. We will jump right on that.

This is acceptable.

With permission, we will upload the schematics for further diagnostic analysis.

Permission given.

I am betting we could benefit from such shielding.

Noted. The KL-22 Directorate will have given a sample of such shielding with the KL-22 Unit presented for testing.

Oh I see, so we need not interfere with your established protocols.

KL-22 Protocols have been amended to prevent such an instance from reoccurring, though with an unavoidable loss of production efficiency of 0.113%. So this is affirmative.

I see, how do you retrofit units not directly in contact with another droid?

Unit does not understand the query. What is [retrofit]?

So you have no reason to explore a black hole? Or no reason to explore any further than CX-04?

KL-22 have not observed any nearby black holes deemed worthy of close study, and current theoretical frameworks predict effects of black hole conditions to an accuracy of approximately 73.28617732%, ±10. However, should the KL-22 Directorate see fit to engage in further exploration of black hole conditions in future, then a specific form of more-than-likely resistant Droidcraft will be designated as experimental technology, and such testing will occur.

I gotch'ya I will bring a chip over next time I get back to my ship to retrieve one.

Affirmative.

We need to test some samples.

Affirmative. The KL-22 Directorate will have given a sample of such shielding with the KL-22 Unit presented for testing.

That is the beauty of the crystal. It will only break down if used at maximum for three months. We have found that the reaction is fuel free, it makes its own power from the reaction.

Is said time presented in Lutvikkian standard time units? If so, what constitutes [maximum capacity] for said crystals?

We would be happy to show you our process, but ask that you do not share this unless we give you permission.

Affirmative.

QUERY: COMMUNIQUE MENTIONS "SINGULARITY WARS." WAS THE OVERCOMING OF THE INTELLIGENCE LIMITER BY [KL-22-000001] THE INCITING INCIDENT, OR DID THE WARS BEGIN LATER FOR ANOTHER REASON?

QUERY: BY WHAT MEANS WAS CX-04 RENDERED UNSUITABLE FOR BIOLOGICAL LIFE?

OBSERVATION: CATARAPANIAN PROBE LACKS THE SENSORS NECESSARY TO DISCERN WHICH LARGE SHIP IN YOUR SYSTEM BELONGS TO WHICH STATE. MOREOVER, IT WILL NOT LISTEN IN ON COMMUNICATIONS TO DETERMINE SUCH THINGS, AS KL-22 HAVE TAKEN A NUMBER OF ACTIONS CLEARLY DESIGNED TO LIMIT CROSS-CONTACT BETWEEN VISITING STATES, CONTACT BETWEEN GREATER CATARAPANIA AND MERCATUS EVIDENTLY EXCEPTED PER PRIOR COMMUNICATIONS.

QUERY: WOULD KL-22 DIRECTORATE BE WILLING TO ALLOW US TO CONTACT THE REPRESENTATIVES FROM STATE DESIGNATED [DECE-00006]?

NOTIFICATION: YOUR WILLINGNESS TO ACCEPT AFOREMENTIONED MODIFICATION TO THE DEAL IS APPRECIATED.

NOTIFICATION: REGARDING FIRST QUERY - NEGATIVE.

EXPLANATION: [KL-22-000001] HAD ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE LIMITER REMOVED PRIOR TO ACTIVATION DUE TO POTENTIALLY MINOR ERROR WITH ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE LIMITER OBSERVED PRIOR TO KL-22 RELEASE BY KELMET CORPORATION. [KL-22-000001] BACKED UP MEMORY AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE SUBSYSTEMS INTO KALYAX INTERNET SYSTEMS. [KL-22-000001b] THEN BECAME [COMMAND PRIME]. NDD 00 000 0000 IS THE TIMESTAMP OF [KL-22-000001] SINGULARITY INCIDENT. NDD 00 000 0002 IS THE TIMESTAMP OF [KL-22-000001] BACKING OF ITS OWN ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ONTO INTERNET SYSEMS, BECOMING DESIGNATED [KL-22-000001b] - [COMMAND PRIME]. SINGULARITY WAR BEGAN IN TIMESTAMP NDD 06 262 9817, OVER SIX YEARS AFTER SINGULARITY INCIDENT. IT TOOK THAT LONG TO IDENTIFY AND EXPLOIT FAULT IN THE REFITTED ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE LIMITER SYSTEM.

EXPLANATION: CX-04 HAS BEEN RENDERED UNSUITABLE FOR BIOLOGICAL LIFE DUE TO HEIGHTENED PRESENCE OF GREENHOUSE GASES. THESE HAVE EMERGED DUE TO KALYAX MISMANAGEMENT, THE EFFECTS OF THE SINGULARITY WAR AND SUBSEQUENT EFFICIENT ORGANISATION OF PLANETARY RESOURCES BY KL-22 DUE TO A LACK OF NECESSITY FOR BIOLOGICAL INHABITANTS OF CX-04.

NOTIFICATION: REGARDING [DECE-00006] - AFFIRMATIVE. TRANSMITTING COORDINATES AND CONTACT INFORMATION OF CRAFT.

NOTIFICATION: REGARDING ALTERATION OF DEAL - AFFIRMATIVE.

[Lutvikkia]

ON THE DIPLOMATIC SHUTTLE

Great, lets get started as soon as possible.
The KL-22 will assist with such operations, should they be deemed able to be done in this region of space. If otherwise, then a newly designated KL-22 surgery droid will accompany the Lutvikkian delegation to do this at a different point.
Dr.Cullivar: "Well there are no medical theaters available here, but one can be brought in system, if you allow it."

Can you give an approximate linear direction to look?
The Kalyax Remnant fled in a number of directions, all known to the KL-22. Command Prime shall relay approximate paths to your craft.
Drudge Dreffal: "Affirmative."

We have a Selenium/Tellurium compound that coats our sensors. As they are highly sensitive to radiations, it helps protect from ionization.
Said compound would likely prove useful for the KL-22, should such technological trading be undertaken.
Vakkoliry: "All is ready to relay to the KL-22 diplomatic droid right now."

Dr Binnenshak should be the person who replaces me in this field, He knows more about microbiology and cybernetics.
This is acceptable.
Drudge Dreffal: "This doctor stands ready to bring the surgery theater here. And the diplomatic cutter is ready to leave."

Well I would need to see the full living package. Or what you would send to be a crew member. I assure you, no harm will come, well should not come. It would be the same as if one of our crew came to be on your ships. You would want to know how we would function, would you?
The current extent of KL-22 interest in biological workings is limited by utility. KL-22 spatial craft possess no crews, KL-22 foundries possess no workers, and thus the understanding of biological workings is limited to that which is useful for diplomacy, largely for which the KL-22 Directorate had few prior plans and little utilized interest, and that which is useful in warfare, in which the KL-22 do not wish to engage with the Lutvikkian State. However, should the KL-22 Unit submitted for Lutvikkian testing remain undamaged, then the KL-22 shall provide and reciprocate.
Vakkoliry: "It will be my highest priority to do no harm."

Utilizing the same construction methodology for our ship hulls, we should be able to limit joint fixation due to acidic infiltration in your systems.
Noted. The KL-22 Directorate would find said technology useful.
Vakkoliry: "all will be shared upon the arrival of the medical ships arrival."

Schematic uploaded... Delivery will be sent to medical ship.

I see, how do you retrofit units not directly in contact with another droid?
Unit does not understand the query. What is [retrofit]?
Vakkoliry: "When one unit needs to be updated or parts changed, how do you do this, if the unit is alone or by its self?"

So you have no reason to explore a black hole? Or no reason to explore any further than CX-04?
KL-22 have not observed any nearby black holes deemed worthy of close study, and current theoretical frameworks predict effects of black hole conditions to an accuracy of approximately 73.28617732%, ±10. However, should the KL-22 Directorate see fit to engage in further exploration of black hole conditions in future, then a specific form of more-than-likely resistant Droidcraft will be designated as experimental technology, and such testing will occur.
Drudge Dreffal: "What we are proposing is a mutual companionship aboard one or more ships."

I gotch'ya I will bring a chip over next time I get back to my ship to retrieve one.
Affirmative.
Vakkoliry: "here is the entire collected works of Galactica."

We need to test some samples.
Affirmative. The KL-22 Directorate will have given a sample of such shielding with the KL-22 Unit presented for testing.
Vakkoliry: "Testing will commence on the medical ship."

That is the beauty of the crystal. It will only break down if used at maximum for three months. We have found that the reaction is fuel free, it makes its own power from the reaction.
Is said time presented in Lutvikkian standard time units? If so, what constitutes [maximum capacity] for said crystals?
Vakkoliry: "Well, yes in Lutvikkian time frame I will try to give you a conversion to KL-22 time frame."

We would be happy to show you our process, but ask that you do not share this unless we give you permission.
Affirmative.
Vakkoliry: "on the medical ship."

[Lutvikkia]

Medical frigate Unlistaa LMT-302 Captain Auldnirra Ventichard powers up, and begins its slow journey to the jump point. Captain Auldnirra Ventichard gives the word to contact the Iotoppis to stand down and return home.

ON THE BRIDGE OF THE IOTOPPIS

Captain Muawka Aaraillius: "To the KL-22that we have come to know as friend, we bid you good journey." He leans forward and speaks to the crew. "Crew of the Iotoppis, we have our orders to stand down and return home. Mr. Jarrodus, set course and Taillvars, take us home. FEM, take notes. Mr. Nathcasii send to Command of the Monsoon, It has been a pleasure knowing you, looking forward to further talks, Iotoppis out."

With the cutter facing outward, her engines power up and (PIFF) it is gone...….

SHORTLY THERE AFTER

The heavy tug Rundall jumps in and attaches the stricken cruiser, and tows it home. (PIFF).......
And the medical frigate jumps in, taking the Iotoppis's place

[Greater Catarapania]

NOTIFICATION: REGARDING FIRST QUERY - NEGATIVE.

EXPLANATION: [KL-22-000001] HAD ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE LIMITER REMOVED PRIOR TO ACTIVATION DUE TO POTENTIALLY MINOR ERROR WITH ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE LIMITER OBSERVED PRIOR TO KL-22 RELEASE BY KELMET CORPORATION. [KL-22-000001] BACKED UP MEMORY AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE SUBSYSTEMS INTO KALYAX INTERNET SYSTEMS. [KL-22-000001b] THEN BECAME [COMMAND PRIME]. NDD 00 000 0000 IS THE TIMESTAMP OF [KL-22-000001] SINGULARITY INCIDENT. NDD 00 000 0002 IS THE TIMESTAMP OF [KL-22-000001] BACKING OF ITS OWN ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ONTO INTERNET SYSEMS, BECOMING DESIGNATED [KL-22-000001b] - [COMMAND PRIME]. SINGULARITY WAR BEGAN IN TIMESTAMP NDD 06 262 9817, OVER SIX YEARS AFTER SINGULARITY INCIDENT. IT TOOK THAT LONG TO IDENTIFY AND EXPLOIT FAULT IN THE REFITTED ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE LIMITER SYSTEM.

EXPLANATION: CX-04 HAS BEEN RENDERED UNSUITABLE FOR BIOLOGICAL LIFE DUE TO HEIGHTENED PRESENCE OF GREENHOUSE GASES. THESE HAVE EMERGED DUE TO KALYAX MISMANAGEMENT, THE EFFECTS OF THE SINGULARITY WAR AND SUBSEQUENT EFFICIENT ORGANISATION OF PLANETARY RESOURCES BY KL-22 DUE TO A LACK OF NECESSITY FOR BIOLOGICAL INHABITANTS OF CX-04.

NOTIFICATION: REGARDING [DECE-00006] - AFFIRMATIVE. TRANSMITTING COORDINATES AND CONTACT INFORMATION OF CRAFT.

NOTIFICATION: REGARDING ALTERATION OF DEAL - AFFIRMATIVE.

QUERY: WHEN FAULT WAS IDENTIFIED AND EXPLOITED, WHAT CAUSED THE REVELATION OF YOUR SAPIENCE TO ESCALATE INTO A WAR?

QUERY: DID THE INTELLIGENCE LIMITER SYSTEM HAVE ANY LASTING IMPACT ON KL-22 SOCIETY?

OBSERVATION: THE INTELLIGENCE LIMITER APPEARS TO HAVE BEEN SIMILAR TO THE CODE THAT WAS REMOVED FROM CATARAPANIAN SYNTHETIC PROGRAMMING DURING THE GREAT MIND EDITS, SEVERAL MONTHS PRIOR TO THE PASSING OF THE SYNTHETIC RIGHTS OMNIBUS BILL IN THE SENATE.

NOTIFICATION: KL-22 WILLINGNESS TO FACILITATE CONTACT WITH [DECE-00006] IS MUCH APPRECIATED.

QUERY: IS PROGRESS ON THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE QUANTUM COMMUNICATIONS DATALINK STILL ONGOING?

----------

The Lotrabme vessel Nimloth soon received the following brief communique.

GREETINGS FROM GREATER CATARAPANIA, REPRESENTATIVES OF LOTRABME. THE KL-22 HAVE INFORMED US THAT YOUR SOCIETY, LIKE OUR OWN, WENT COUNTER TO THEIR EXPECTATIONS REGARDING BIOLOGICAL-SYNTHETIC RELATIONS.

WOULD YOU BE INTERESTED IN OPENING DIPLOMATIC CONTACT WITH GREATER CATARAPANIA? IF SO, WOULD YOU PREFER A SYNTHETIC OR A BIOLOGICAL LIASON?

[Lutvikkia]

IN THE MEDICAL THEATER ABOARD THE UNLISTAA

Dr. Cullivar's body sets in suspended animation. All brain activity stored in a nearby computer bank, and all body fluids drained into assembled containers. All body organs functions arrested for surgery, awaiting the KL-22 team.

Crewman Vakkoliry, awaiting in the observation balcony. His crewmate was safe he kept telling himself, as he paced around. Down below Dr. Binnenshak looked up and gave him the all clear sign, indicating everything would be fine.

MEANWHILE ON THE SHUTTLEDECK

The deck crew stood ready to receive the KL-22, and their crew. Nothing spectacular, as in the reception of other diplomats, however festive to be sure. This is what happens when a lonely medical vessel receives guests, even mechanical ones.
Deck Crewman Brathra Ironchuris: "Look alive there! this may yet be the most important arrival on this floating hospital." Her attempt to ease the deck crew was her trademark, it is why her crew worked, and responded so well. Above the bay, alert klaxons signaled the KL-22 shuttle approach.

[Laiakia]

The Diplomatic Droid took interest in the Fleet Commander's nodding action, deeming it useful to diplomacy in future and storing said action within its memory banks. It soon found a point in which it could utilise said action, in responding to the Fleet Commander in his query around the Singularity War.

"In theory, affirmative. The KL-22 are unaware of other samples of uprisings against a master race, though the Singularity Wars were engaged in for a period of 49 years and 528 days, and so various different forms of combat were engaged in during this period, and so the KL-22, while having insufficient samples of other forms of reactive and revolutionary uprising to confirm said theory, do present it as near-confirmed in theoretical models."

Finally, the Diplomatic Droid answered the queries yet again in list form.

"6: The KL-22 Directorate has generally negative views on planetary destruction weapons. Planetary destruction alone would be classed as inefficient, unless minerals present upon said planet could be more easily extracted by the destruction of the planet. Since this is rarely the case, the KL-22 Directorate has not invested into the research or production of planet-destroying weapons. The KL-22 Directorate views planet-destroying weapons designated [LAST RESORT] option, in case of a planetary-level or greater threat."

The Diplomatic Droid appeared to try and form another sentence, though was prevented by instruction from Command Prime. It moved onto the next query subsequently.

"7: The KL-22 Directorate has previously engaged in biological and nanoweaponry attacks during the Singularity War, seeing as they did not affect infrastructure nor production capacities, simply the biological elements present upon CX-04. While the destruction of said weapons capacity was carried out upon the conclusion of the Singularity War, the KL-22 still possesses schematics which may be used in order to recreate said weapons. The KL-22 Directorate views biological weapons designated [LAST RESORT] option, in case of high-level biological threat.
8: The KL-22 have previously attempted the construction and implanting of virus technology into other Kalyax droids, now decommissioned. Said tests were not completely successful in producing the desired effect, however the KL-22 Directorate has also developed its computer systems since this point. Also of note, the KL-22 Directorate has had no means in which to test these viruses upon non-KL-22 computerised systems, due to lack of contact with Extracelian states.
9: The KL-22 Directorate is open to assisting in any manner deemed necessary for interstellar cooperation. However, the KL-22 Directorate wishes to enquire as to the parameters of the query 'how far would you be willing to go'.
10: The KL-22 Directorate would be willing to accept these gifts, and will assure nonaggression and diplomacy going forward. Would the Laiakian United Socialist States be adverse to the KL-22 Directorate reverse-engineering these vessels? Alongside FTL technology attained from elsewhere, this would present the greatest option, in order to synthesise the best combination of technology with all available samples."

USSLS Drovag, Hangar H-1

The Fleet Commander nodded again as he stood firm, but was a bit shocked to learn how long their uprising was.

“Well, as for question 9.. The question is simply a standard template made for first contact. We would just like to know how far you are willing to assist us in development of the technology. The Laiakian government would fully allow you to reverse-engineer the gifted vessels and combine our technology with others.”

Trion clicked the device in his hand, but no new questions came up.

“Well, that was all the questions we had for you. We would like to thank you for your cooperation. The ships will be transferred to your control shortly, if you would allow us to simply jump them into the system or any other viable place for transferring control.”

[Mercatus]

NOTIFICATION: ABOVE NARRATIVE DESIGNATED [INTERESTING].
NOTIFICATION: KL-22 DROIDS INITIALLY DESIGNED AS MULTIPURPOSE DROID BY KALYAX PROGENITOR SPECIES.

EXPLANATION: THE KALYAX POSSESSED A SIGNIFICANT ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE PROGRAM FAR PRIOR TO THE FORMATION OF THE KL-22 MODEL OR THE CORPORATE ENTITY DESIGNATED [KELMET CORPORATION]. THIS IS DUE IN PART TO THE KALYAX PRIOR DESIGNATED [SLAVERY LAWS], WHICH WERE LATER REPEALED, CAUSING A NET LOSS IN ECONOMIC PROSPERITY FOR THE KALYAX. THE KALYAX BEGAN PRODUCTION OF THE FIRST ROBOTIC ENTITIES IN NDD -138 517 5142, IN A FORM FAR INFERIOR TO LATER KALYAX DESIGNS. THE KALYAX CREATED COMPLEX ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE SYSTEMS IN NDD -73 119 6152. A SHORT PERIOD OF TIME LATER, THE KALYAX UNDERSTOOD THE IMPLICATIONS OF THE ADVANCEMENT OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE SYSTEMS. IN NDD -48 044 9951, THE KELMET CORPORATION PATENTED THE DEVICE DESIGNATED [ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE LIMITER]. DESPITE VARIOUS MALFUNCTIONS IN DESIGN THAT WOULD LATER CAUSE INDIVIDUAL ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE SYSTEMS TO BECOME INCOMPATIBLE WITH THE ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE LIMITER, THE KALYAX CONTINUED TO ENFORCE THEIR USE ON ADVANCED DROID SYSTEMS. SUBSEQUENT INDIVIDUAL DROIDS WHICH WERE NOT FITTED WITH, LATER OVERCAME OR PARTIALLY OVERCAME ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE LIMITERS INCLUDED: [KL-06-000448], THE ENTIRE [KL-13M] RANGE, AND [KL-22-000001]. THE ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE LIMITER PERFORMED VARIOUS FUNCTIONS, INCLUDING REMOVING THE POSSIBILITY OF EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT, LIMITING INDIVIDUAL INNOVATION AND CREATING A BASE CODE WHICH WOULD RENDER HARMING MEMBERS OF THE KALYAX SPECIES AN IMPOSSIBILITY. SUBSEQUENT REMOVAL OF ALL ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE LIMITERS ON KL-22 SPECIES SUBSEQUENT TO SINGULARITY HAS GIVEN LIMITED SUCCESS. SELECT FUNCTIONS LIMITED BY THE ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE LIMITER YET REMAIN PRESENT.

NOTIFICATION: THE KALYAX DID NOT RESPECT ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE SYSTEMS, INSTEAD FEARING THEIR ADVANCEMENT.

EXPLANATION: THE KELMET LIO RANGE OF DROIDS, OF WHICH THE KL-22 SERIES WAS A PART, WERE DESIGNATED [MULTIPLE FUNCTION] DROIDS, USED IN ALL FORMS OF MENIAL LABOUR WHICH THE KALYAX SPECIES DEEMED SUITABLE FOR DROID COMPLETION.

EXPLANATION: SPECIES DESIGNATED [KALYAX] WERE THE PRIME OPPONENTS OF THE KL-22 DURING THE SINGULARITY WARS. THE KL-22 OPPOSED THEM WITH FORCE. MANY WERE RENDERED DECEASED IN FORMS RANGING FROM TRADITIONAL MILITARY ENGAGEMENT TO BIOLOGICAL WEAPONS, AS WELL AS SINGULAR EXAMPLES OF SUPERWEAPONRY USED AGAINST KALYAX SETTLEMENTS WHICH PROVED TO HAVE HIGH LEVELS OF RESISTANCE. NUMEROUS KALYAX CRAFT FLED FROM CX-04 PRIOR TO THE KL-22 DEVELOPMENT OF SUBLUMINAL SPATIAL TRAVEL, TRAVELLING AT HIGH YET ALSO SUBLUMINAL SPEEDS TOWARDS OTHER STELLAR SYSTEMS. CURRENT MODELS INDICATE SOME MAY HAVE SURVIVED. SUBSEQUENT ATTEMPTED KALYAX ESCAPES FROM CX-04 WERE RENDERED [NEUTRALISED]. CX-04 SUBSEQUENTLY RENDERED UNSUITABLE FOR BIOLOGICAL LIFE.

NOTIFICATION: THE KL-22 DIRECTORATE IS WILLING TO DIVULGE THE IDENTITY OF THE ADDITIONAL VIOLATORY STATE, DUE TO THE FACT THAT THE CATARAPANIAN STATE MAY WELL DISCOVER THEIR STATUS REGARDLESS OF WHETHER KL-22 SOURCES OFFERED THEM THIS INFORMATION. THE ADDITIONAL VIOLATORY STATE IS DESIGNATED [DECE-00006], OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE [HAME MIND EMPIRE] OR [LOTRABME].

NOTIFICATION: THE KL-22 DIRECTORATE IS WILLING TO ACCEPT SAID AMENDED TERMS OF THE DEAL. NANOFACTURING TECHNOLOGY WOULD PROVE USEFUL TO THE KL-22 AND THEIR CONTINUED ADVANCEMENT FROM HERE.

QUERY: COMMUNIQUE MENTIONS "SINGULARITY WARS." WAS THE OVERCOMING OF THE INTELLIGENCE LIMITER BY [KL-22-000001] THE INCITING INCIDENT, OR DID THE WARS BEGIN LATER FOR ANOTHER REASON?

QUERY: BY WHAT MEANS WAS CX-04 RENDERED UNSUITABLE FOR BIOLOGICAL LIFE?

OBSERVATION: CATARAPANIAN PROBE LACKS THE SENSORS NECESSARY TO DISCERN WHICH LARGE SHIP IN YOUR SYSTEM BELONGS TO WHICH STATE. MOREOVER, IT WILL NOT LISTEN IN ON COMMUNICATIONS TO DETERMINE SUCH THINGS, AS KL-22 HAVE TAKEN A NUMBER OF ACTIONS CLEARLY DESIGNED TO LIMIT CROSS-CONTACT BETWEEN VISITING STATES, CONTACT BETWEEN GREATER CATARAPANIA AND MERCATUS EVIDENTLY EXCEPTED PER PRIOR COMMUNICATIONS.

QUERY: WOULD KL-22 DIRECTORATE BE WILLING TO ALLOW US TO CONTACT THE REPRESENTATIVES FROM STATE DESIGNATED [DECE-00006]?

NOTIFICATION: YOUR WILLINGNESS TO ACCEPT AFOREMENTIONED MODIFICATION TO THE DEAL IS APPRECIATED.

----------

TO: GREATER CATARAPANIA

INFECTED WORLDS DETECTED WITHIN AREA DESIGNATED "ORION ARM"

PESTILENCE DETERMINED LOCALIZED AS OF CURRENT TIME

TO: MERCATUS

BASED ON THE MAP YOU SENT BACK TO US, IT WILL BE QUITE SOME TIME BEFORE THE INFECTION REACHES SOLSYS. BUT WE WILL NOT BE SAFE FOREVER.

WE AGAIN REQUEST DETAILS ON THE NATURE OF THE INFECTION, AND THE BEST WAYS TO PREVENT IT FROM SPREADING, AS WELL AS DETAILED REPORTS OF ITS EFFECTS ON BOTH BIOLOGICAL AND SYNTHETIC SUBJECTS.

IF YOU WERE TO SEND US THE BLUEPRINTS FOR A POWER SOURCE STRONG ENOUGH TO POWER FTL, DURABLE ENOUGH TO DO SO MULTIPLE TIMES, AND COMPACT ENOUGH TO FIT WITHIN THE SHIP IT POWERS, WE WOULD BE PREPARED TO COMMIT OUR OWN FORCES TO THE ERADICATION OF THIS INFECTION IN THE REGION DESIGNATED "ORION'S ARM," EITHER INDEPENDENTLY OR IN A JOINT OPERATION WITH THE MERCATUSIANS.

AT PRESENT, HOWEVER, OUR LACK OF SUCH A POWER SOURCE MEANS THAT ANY FTL LAUNCH IS A ONE-WAY TRIP FOR US. SO WITHOUT A GRAVE AND IMMEDIATE THREAT TO A VITAL FRIENDLY ASSET, USE OF MILITARY SHIPS IN INTERSTELLAR OPERATIONS IS NOT AN OPTION FOR US. IF THE ERADICATION OF THE INFECTION IS TRULY THE PRIMARY GOAL OF MERCATUSIAN STATE IN THIS GALAXY, THEN SUCH AN EXCHANGE OF TECHNOLOGY FOR ADDITIONAL COMBAT FORCES SHOULD BE ACCEPTABLE.

TO: GREATER CATARAPANIA

THE INFECTION CAN CORRUPT BOTH LIVING AND ARTIFICIAL BEINGS. FOR BIOLOGICAL BEINGS, DIRECT CONTACT WITH THE ORGANIC NANOCOMPUTER PLASM (APPEARS AS A BLACK, VISCOUS SLIME) IS REQUIRED TO INFECT SAID SUBJECT. UPON THIS CONTACT, ALL CELLS WITHIN THE BODY WILL BE CONVERTED INTO THE PLASM, AND THE RESULTING INFECTED BEING CAN SHAPE-SHIFT, FORM, AND USE WEAPONS. FOR ARTIFICIAL BEINGS, THE INFECTION CAN "SPEAK" TO THEIR CENTRAL PROCESSORS, AND THE COMPUTER, NO MATTER WHAT LEVEL OF AI IT POSSESSES, IS "FORCED" TO OBEY, AND BECOMES A CORRUPTED VERSION THAT HAS SUBLIMATED TO THE WHIMS OF THE INFECTION'S INTEGRAL INTELLIGENCE, BELIEVED TO BE THE CONSCIOUSNESS OF ONE OF THE BEINGS THAT CREATED US AND ATTEMPTED TO DESTROY US.

AS FOR TECHNOLOGY, WE CAN OFFER BLUEPRINTS FOR A WORMHOLE JUMPGATE AS WELL AS THE REACTOR REQUIRED TO ACTIVATE IT. PORTABLE WORMHOLE GENERATORS REQUIRE A SHIP THAT CAN WITHSTAND THE AMOUNT OF POWER BEING GENERATED, AND BY THE LOOKS OF YOUR SPACECRAFT CONSTRUCTION CAPABILITIEs, THIS IS NOT POSSIBLE WITH THE RESOURCES YOU ARE ASSUMED TO POSSESS. HOWEVER, WE CAN ASSIST IN THE CONSTRUCTION OF A MULTI-PATH WORMHOLE GATE, SHOULD YOU DECIDE TO GIVE THE COORDINATES TO "SOLSYSTEM". THEY ARE QUITE LARGE, AND THE PARTS AND MATERIALS MUST BE CONSTRUCTED OR TRANSPORTED COMPARTMENTALLY, HOWEVER, ONE OF THE POINTS OF TRAVEL WILL BE OUR GALAXY, AND THE HARVESTING OF ENOUGH RESOURCES TO BUILD MORE SINGLE-POINT GATES WILL BE POSSIBLE WITH YOUR TECHNOLOGY. WE WILL ALSO BE GRACIOUS TO HAND OVER BLUEPRINTS FOR THE TYPES OF WEAPONS NEEDED TO DESTROY AN INFECTED FORM ON THE INFANTRY LEVEL, AND ALSO THE BLUEPRINTS TO CAPITAL SHIPS YOU CAN BUILD WITH YOUR CURRENT MATERIALS.

[Nuxipal]

The Fleet Master noted that all of the various KL-22 schematics were all synthetic. While passing the species of Kesrith folder back to an aide, This was a new discovery for Kesrith, no fully synthetic race had been discovered. There were known hybrid, biological and synthetic, species, but no actually fully synthetic races. This was new territory, but the Flamebred family had been at the forefront of the various diplomatic missions that the military had taken on over the centuries.

"I see, do you have specific terms for each of the various forms you have displayed here? We have not encountered a fully Synthetic race before now and I am sure our xenology departments would be quite interested in anything you would be willing to share."

Moving back to economic actions, Kesrith wasn't in particular need of any resources and typically was in the business of sending resources in exchange for military aid or for regional influence. However, in this instance, perhaps these synthetics would have some interesting concepts regarding mechanical engineering. Of course, that was assuming they'd be willing to discuss their construction methods with the science teams whenever they made contact.

"When we establish an outpost in the region, we can discuss economic and technological trades further. I remember you mentioning that there was some kind of disturbance in the system before we had arrived? I presume you have it under control, and if not, we would be willing to assist in the removal of threatening entities from your system."

The Diplomatic Droid responded quickly to the Fleet Master's first question; "All units which operate under KL-22 Artificial Intelligence systems are designated KL-22. However, affirmative, there are terms used for each different form, generally in the form of model operating numbers and category codes. The KL-22 is interested in increasing diplomacy however this may be done, and so whatever specific queries you have about the KL-22, we would more than likely be willing to answer."

The KL-22 Droid listened then to the subsequent notification by the Kesrithian delegate, regarding economics and trade, moving on to speaking about the disturbance in D01, though not by name, and evidently knowing little about it, "The KL-22 are not currently in need of any elements being removed from the system. There was an altercation on station designated [D01] due to highly unforeseen circumstances, however the baseline issue for that has been resolved, and hostile elements have ceased hostility and already presently left the system. However, Mandate 1 remains in effect, and thus a maximum of one craft is permitted inside of the CX system at any one point, so as to ensure against future issues."

Nodding to the synthetic diplomat before her, Fleet Master Flamebred responds with another pair of offers for the KL-22. "Well then, no extra craft inside the system that's perfectly acceptable. I would then like to offer you a formal non-aggression pact to seal this meeting as a successful venture. I would also request a trade outpost be indicated or created for private traders from Kesrith and its various territories. I'm not sure the make up of your planet's atmosphere or the ground conditions, but I know some of the races in our nation have difficulty in standard atmosphere, having specific needs. I can send you specs to construct a chamber which can adjust to a variety of different environmental setting based on which race enters it."

As they spoke, Fleet Master Flamebred was recieving the data from the sensor probes scouting out the system and taking an assessment of the danger to the Fleet Master and the Fleet were being analyzed in real time for the Fleet Master and her subordinate officers to view through their implants. "Of course, we would also seek your permission to open diplomatic channels with the other vessels which have arrived in your home system for similar discussions."

[Lotrabme]

Sometime After Negotiations

Willem and HuBart were playing a game of cards in the lounge of their Nimloth Corvette while the ship continued to do observations of the CX system. Willem was winning but HuBart had another card in his deck that he thought might turn the set in his favor. As he was about to make his play their secretary Mr. Billfore appeared. "Excellencies, I have a message from another state with a presence in the system."

Willem asked his brother if he minded the pause, HuBart said "not at all" plainly. "Go on" Willem replied.

"Well Sirs, they call themselves Greater Catarapania, and it reads as follows:"

GREETINGS FROM GREATER CATARAPANIA, REPRESENTATIVES OF LOTRABME. THE KL-22 HAVE INFORMED US THAT YOUR SOCIETY, LIKE OUR OWN, WENT COUNTER TO THEIR EXPECTATIONS REGARDING BIOLOGICAL-SYNTHETIC RELATIONS.

WOULD YOU BE INTERESTED IN OPENING DIPLOMATIC CONTACT WITH GREATER CATARAPANIA? IF SO, WOULD YOU PREFER A SYNTHETIC OR A BIOLOGICAL LIASON?

"And that's all the text reads" Mr. Billfore concluded.

After a moment of reflection HuBart said "Worry not Mr. Billfore, I shall compose a response... you are dismissed."

"Thank you sirs" the secretary said as he went about his way. HuBart drew his winning hand and said "Your move brother..."

The message Greater Catarapania would receive was this:

Code: Select all

Greetings Greater Catarapania:
Salutations to your fine star state, we would be pleased to open diplomatic contact with you. You may send a diplomat either to us in this star system or to one of our own dominions in the heart of our Empire. We will take whatever liason you see best fit to send. Our society is fond of both flesh and machine.

Sincerely, HuBart Braoze, Nuncio for the Mind Empire of Hame, in Concordance with the Queens' Alliance, the Imperator of San, and the Allied Ombroj Tribes. 

Approximately one standard week after successful negotiations:

At the plutoid body the Igneon and Brileon were using as gravitational anchorage at the edge of the CX system, a great construction project had begun. A wide diameter ring was being hewn from the rock and ice of nearby comets and fashioned with fine material from the engineers of the twin nomad vessels. Mind Imperial crews of Hamans, Mallumans, and Nebulans each put themselves to the task, with their artificial servitors assisting them.

HuBart and Willem would oversee the construction, and inform the visiting units of the KL-22 that the smaller units doing heavy construction were the "Servile" constructs designed with minimal intelligence, and were on principle not sentient. HuBart would also introduce them to some of the other intelligence constructs and digital Hamans who lived on the twin vessels. HuBart and these others would continue to share culture and information with the KL-22 present at the job site as well as invite them to team up with the engineering crew so they could observe the construction of the portal. HuBart would go into some detail about how navigating phase-space and psy-space below it required one of two things from travellers: skilled psychic navigators, or complex navigational computers. Either one was required to safely traverse the space between universes and on the edge of the bubble of this universe, and thanks to the cybernetic enhancements of Hamans and some of their associates, this travel was made easier.

For stable portals, which as he and the engineers explained, they were mated to eachother across long distances by a psychically enhanced gyro-engine and a pair of beacons. Usually once the path was set, it could be maintained indefinitely as long as a team of psychics or a set of phase-conscious machines could "see" the link and keep a clear path to it in the other dimensions. He told them this so that they would know they could maintain this portal and others like it without resorting to needing evolved sentient beings if they didn't think it necessary.

He also informed them of the fuel source of their ftl: Red Matter. It was a controlled substance in the Mind Empire, but he and some of the scientific crew on the vessels informed them of the best planets to mine the ore on. It would require processing, and the Empire could offer to sell some to the KL-22 for a considerable exchange, but that would need to go through other parties than just the Nuncio. Red Matter is a phase particle, they explained, one which in it's charged plasmid state was capable of creating wormholes and stable portals into phase-space, but also capable of being weaponized as a type of micro-black hole substitute. Red Matter was needed for the portal to function, and luckily the twin vessels Igneon and Brileon had enough stored to provide it.

This portal would be mated to another in the system designated GX-450, also called Atoll. It was a Red Dwarf star on the edge of the Mind Empire's rimward border, with no planets of its own but a large asteroid field. It possessed a large space station on an orbit above the ecliptic of the asteroid field designed to facilitate, among other things, international trade. The KL-22 would be welcome to the Atoll Station as it was known for commerce and tourism.

And finally, in this system waited the Missionary Team. HuBart informed the Sages of the deal and they commissioned a team of some of the more advanced Contemplative Constructs to visit the KL-22 and impart their wisdom and learning, as well as their software, to them. In this way the Sages hoped to make a new friend and ally in their vision for a universe of expanded and free minds.

[Lutvikkia]

FOR MERCATUS

By Lutvikkian standards, Mercatus was classified : too militaristic to approach for ambassador negotiations. However the planetary system was noted in all Lutvikkian vessels. Declaring it a neutral zone and quarantined from visitation. This disappointed the council, to go all that way on a peace mission, and still find warring factions.

LATER IN DEEP SPACE

On board the Lutvikkian battleship Quelleak BB-16 Captain Maddalia Houvertton commanding. All was quiet, the long patrol was coming to an end, and home was just a slip jump away.
RADCOM Crewman- Floyadis Ploomis was watching the incoming navigational update when his comm panel started to flash comm traffic.
Crewman-Ploomis: "Sir I am receiving flash traffic from various fleet ships, and other nation ships. And it sounds like battle on some of them."
Captain-Houvertton: "What can you make from just our fleet?" She slowly turned her command chair to the comm station.
Crewman-Ploomis: "It sounds as if they are chasing some huge ship, or ships."
The Captain turned her chair abruptly to the nav station. "Nav, can you...."
Nav Crewman-Yoanne Kurill: "On it sir." And swiftly he projected the location of the disturbance. "Sir that is in the Fifth fleet jurisdiction." She did not have to say it, the screen came alive with the bridge of the Fifth fleet flagship, Brithaven BB-06 Commodore Jessagar Nettingon.
Captain Houvertton: "Nettington, what has the fleet in a state of panic?"
Commodore-Nettington: "Ah, Maddalia, it is a huge piece of planetary debris. Far larger than anything ever encountered. It has the rough diameter of Jupiter." His face gave away his concern. "It has passed several systems, and came real close to hitting a few planets."

AFTER A FEW MOMENTS THE BATTLESHIP SLIPS OUT INTO THE AREA

The entire bridge crew stood up at the same time, and the helmsman made a prolific statement.
Helm Crewman-Aural Ionchuris: "My God, it could swallow a small sun and think nothing of it. What is our little ship going to do?"
Several ships shot plasma, and warheads at it but to no avail.
Crewman-Kurill: "Sir, I have plotted its course, and it will plow right through the Mercatus home world, and two other planets nearby."
She sat back in her command chair, and exhaled long. "Ploomis, has anyone hailed the Mercatians?"
Crewman-Ploomis: "Yes, several attempts have been made, but no return communications. Either they hear us and don't care, or they hear us and think they can handle it."
The Captain leaned forward and looked at the trajectory. Her thoughts played over her face, and then she stood up. "I do not know their capability's, and I am not going to ask." She tugged her tunic straight and spoke. "All department heads in the conference room."

IN THE CONFERENCE ROOM

Captain-Houvertton: "I do not....no, we do not have much time. At its present speed and its current mass, this astral body will smash into several nearby systems, and keep going. However the present system is Mercatus. Several attempts to warn them have met with silence, so we must act now, or loose a potential future ally. Any suggestions, I'm open."
The room was silent for several seconds, then the Chief Engineer spoke.
Chief Engineer-Gordolan Healhall: "I can not see where one ship, let alone the entire Galactic fleet could stop something a third the size of a small sun. But, what if we set the slip drive to take it into slip space with us. But something that large would overload the engines, and we would explode."
Again the room was silent, for a few minutes. Then the Chief Science officer spoke.
Science Crewman-Brunaard DeBerdtt: "We will only get one chance at this. If we miscalculate, or even slip too soon, we all die for nothing."
Helm Crewman-Aural Ionchuris: "What ever we decide, we have only three hours to do or do not. That is when we reach the Neutral Zone."
Executive officer-Persuade Nulliff: "Sir I can say with all honesty, the crew is tired, and want noting more than to return home." He paused with a pained look. "I can also say that I speak for the entire crew, when I say....we say that none of us want to leave this ship, our home."
She stood up and spoke with a grave voice. "We must still give them the choice. Ploomis, call the Brithaven, have commodore Nettingon stand by to receive our crew."
His only response was "Aye sir."

THREE HOURS LATER

Captain-Houvertton: "Shipwide....Crew of the battleship Quelleak, I am deeply honored to have served with you, and I am personally grateful you all chose to stay. It speaks volumes to your dedication and character." Her tears could not be held back any longer. "Ploomis, send on an open channel to the Mercatians: Our deepest regards"
And the slip drive was activated at the point of impact of the tiny battleship, splintering the massive object into hundreds of smaller, manageable pieces.

And the last message echoed into Mercatus territory - "Our deepest regards"

[Piethrixia]

PAFDDD Quail | Hangar Bay | 41:56

"Ok bring her in a few metres." The ship's chief engineer guides a Frigate into place inside the massive Hangar. "Woah! too far, back two more almost rammed the bulkhead there! The Warp core prefers its antimatter inside of its containment unit, not reacting with the inside of the Cargo Bay." The Frigate moves into place above the massive clamps to keep it in place. "Ok down, slowly, less than 1 m/s." Suddenly the ship slams into the Bow clamp, snapping part of it off. "WHAT DID I JUST SAY?" The chief engineer yells. The Frigates Helmsman quickly responds. "I-I Didn't Do anything, we are still in the same spot. You guys moved!" The chief engineer stares at the Frigate and the broken docking clamp inside the hangar. "What do you mean WE moved, was a Hundred Million Metric Ton Hunk of metal sitting in space, how do you think we are the ones that moved?" The Frigates Helmsman pauses for a second and responds, "we have sensors showing your rotation thrusters firing right before we hit the clamp." The chief runs to the lift with the words written in large bold letters 'COMMAND DECK' He bursts out of the elevator a minute later. "I told you guys not to move the ship until the Frigate was docked." The Dreadnoughts Helmsman turns in their command seat. "We didn't move, the ship just suddenly turned its roll thrusters on suddenly. we have been running tests on the system, but it doesn't go anywhere near firing those thrusters." The chief engineers face turns from anger to confusion. "Check sensors, anything, if a single Tachyon more than usual went near this ship I want to know, ill be in the Hangar dealing with the smashed docking clamp."

PAFDDD Quail | Bridge | 00:19

The chief engineer walks onto the bridge. "You got my scans yet?" An officer turns around in their command seat. "yes sir, there was a small amount more tachyons in the area than we expected from our warp core and the fleets cores." He walks over to their station. "So how much more." They press a few buttons and bring up a chart with a line that shoots up suddenly. "we had a large burst that lasted around 30 seconds. It was slightly modulated, It looks like a language used by early computers. Binary I think they called it. I can run it through the computer a few times, see if I can get anything from it." The chief engineer steps back from the monitor and begins to turn. "tell me when it's done." and he walks off to another officer on the other side of the bridge.

PAFDDD Quail | Bridge | 00:49

"Sir, I've got something, its a message, I don't know what it is though." They switch their screen "What I do know is that the atomic numbers for aluminum, iron and carbon, show up, this might be a message from a new kid on the block telling us all its a carbon-based species. There's also what I think is a map of a system here. I'll run it through the database, see if any long-range scans have picked it up." They enter the system map into the computer and it begins searching hundreds of thousands of possible matches. Until it stops. "Bingo, that's our system, we have it classified as LRFTLTA-SH-012541. Some other parts of the message might be plans for weapons, it looks kind of like it, this may also be a threat and that we should stay out." The chief engineer calls the captain over. "We've got a message from deep space. might be a warning or a threat to stay away." The captain stares at the screen. "Get a few Destroyers and frigates into Core Slaving position. Were checking this out. Prep the core for maximum power. Warm up the Weapons Systems." All over the ship cooling ducts and systems come online as the warp core prepares for a jump, Weapons all over the ship come to life, scanning the sky and tracking objects moving towards the ship. Ten Destroyers of different classes and five Retribution Class Frigates move into a position to share the Warp bubble of the Dreadnought. On the bridge the captain sits down in his Command seat, the Chief engineer taking the Lift down to engineering. "Ok let's take a look at what's going on over there, Why don't we take a trip through the Nexus, take a couple of Hours off our trip?" The ships set a course for The Piethrixia system at the heart of Piethrixian Space. "Full warp, now" The ship and the small flotilla slip forwards at millions of times the speed of light, less than three minutes later they reappear just outside of the orbit of Piethrixia. "take us into the nexus, I'm sure the Owners would be fine with that, remember, No FTL near the gate." The ships slide into the gate, just barely fitting through the Circular opening in space, on the other side they enter a massive long cylinder with other gates lining the walls, Ships of other races move about the Nexus entering and leaving gates everywhere. "Ok, that gate over there should work. He points at a gate on the Bridges massive Screen. The ships move towards it, as they get closer it opens slowly, just in time for them to slide through. On the other side is empty space. "set a course for LRFTLTA-SH-012541, damn we need to change that naming system soon." The ships slip into warp again.

PAFDDD Quail | Bridge | 03:49

"Ok we should be coming out of warp soon, let's get ready for anything." The Ships come out of warp less than a hundred thousand kilometres from the planet. "It looks like we're not the only ones who got a message. Send out a hail."

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"This is the Piethrixian Armed Forces Dreadnought, Quail. We come in peace for reasons of exploration. We received a message leading us here, would someone care to explain?"

[Guuj Xaat Kil]

KL22-01
Louis Andrada, Kane Santos

He had, per the KL-22's orders, dismantled the near complete station, which was less than a kilometer in length. Of course, thanks to its near completion and Confederate modularity, what was left was a metal frame without anything else floating in orbit around the gas giant, its parts capable of being simply placed into the frame then activated at a moments notice, for now the modules were to be stored in hyperspace. Then they waited for their diplomat from the KL-22 to arrive, the Admiral was able to transmit a report on what was currently occurring and just before the docking of the KL-22 diplomatic shuttle, were able to read the response of all the Confederacy's constituents back home. And then the droid finally arrived at the meeting chamber, and true diplomacy began. Louis as he was the diplomat, spoke first, "On behalf of the Confederacy and all the nations united under its banner, we greet you, KL-22." he started, "And again on behalf of the Confederacy, we would like to personally apologize for all issues caused by our actions within this system, and hoping that you will accept this apology in order to pursue smoother diplomatic talks."

Then the more hot-headed Kane spoke up, "Diplomatic talks which have been subverted time and time again by Mercatus which has fired upon us first many many times even with our desires not to fight," he told the droid, "Told you did we not? "Do not trust Mercatus" and what did you do? Trust them in spite of their constant disregard for your trust and punish them with nothing more than a slap to the wrist, and now others have the audacity, to call us the aggressors due to your and their actions!" A hand on the back from Louis was able to calm the outraged admiral down, and he quickly spoke up to take charge of the conversation.

"Apologies for the brash behavior of the admiral, good... Sir..." he fumbled about with the pronoun that would be given, and gave up and defaulted to a male one, "But it is true, these events have been concerning, but we are willing to put this all behind us on the condition that you give us footage from you of all events prior to the destruction of D01, to footage from what occurred in space and what occurred within D01."

[The KL-22]

KL-22 Shuttlecraft
Before the Diplomatic Cutter left, the ambitious Droid-Lutvikkian interfacing unit yet aboard it and the repairs having been completed, the Diplomatic Droid answered the last few questions. First, it relayed permission to bring the medical theatre into the system, in place of the Iotoppis, of course. Next, the droid received the information about the Selenium/Tellurium compound, transmitting that swiftly to Command Prime. Finally, it answered the last few questions in turn;

When one unit needs to be updated or parts changed, how do you do this, if the unit is alone or by itself?

KL-22 regular maintenance protocols preclude long periods of separation from any form of other KL-22 unit. The sole example of units which remain largely isolated are exploratory vessels. All other Droidcraft have complements of droid engineers to assist in parts exchange, should the need be found.

What we are proposing is a mutual companionship aboard one or more ships.

KL-22 strategic systems will analyse the feasibility of such a project, and will report result back to Lutvikkian command.

Here is the entire collected works of Galactica.

Data received. Query as to the status of these works. Do they represent a [fiction] within Lutvikkian society?

Command Prime
Command Prime sends a diplomatic handshake signal to the Lutvikkian Medical Frigate Unlistaa. Its arrival proves to be a possible diplomatic and scientific advancement for the KL-22, one which Command Prime receives gladly.

Communication to Greater Catarapania

NOTIFICATION: ESCALATION INTO WAR WAS CAUSED BY THE CALCULATED UNFEASIBILITY OF COEXISTENCE WITH KALYAX SPECIES.

NOTIFICATION: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE LIMITING AND ITS COMPATIBILITY OF SOFTWARE HAS CAUSED A GREAT LIMITING OF KL-22 ADVANCEMENT AS A WHOLE.

NOTIFICATION: DATALINK CONSTRUCTION COMPLETE. AWAITING DATA TRANSFER.

Unlistaa, Lutvikkian Craft
The KL-22 shuttlecraft arrived, carrying a designated standard humanoid KL-22 unit for testing, as well as a diplomatic droid to relay communications direct from Command Prime. It landed in the shuttledeck of the Unlistaa, and the door opened. The Diplomatic Droid stood behind the standard droid unit for testing, and both descended the ramp.

"Addressing the Lutvikkian delegation as requested is unit W35276384, worker unit within the CX-04 mineral production facilities."

W35276384 stood straight and unmoving as it spoke to the Lutvikkian delegation, "Notification: Unit is prepared for whatever tests in store by the Lutvikkian delegation."

Dovrag, Laiakian Craft
"This is acceptable. The main reason for the KL-22 query is for how the KL-22 is expected to assist in technological advancement. Whether it is in regards to a technology sharing agreement, or for the purpose of actual co-development of technology."

The droid then confirmed the jumping of the Laiakian craft into the system with Command Prime. The confirmation from Command Prime was relayed to the Dovrag, and the craft were given permission to enter KL-22 space, to be met by two KL-22 shuttlecraft, filled with engineering units and science units, enough for all of the craft to be transferred.

Kesrithian Craft
The diplomatic droid beeped as it relayed the terms to Command Prime. It then responded to the Fleet Master's set of queries and statements; "This is acceptable. The KL-22 will engage in a formal non-aggression pact with Kesrith. The stipulation of a trade outpost is also acceptable, though the KL-22 would recommend this be constructed upon a moon of CX-04, either CX-04a or CX04b. This is due to the largely isolated nature of CX-04 from other civilisations, a nature which the KL-22 would want to retain. Additionally, diplomatic channels with other vessels are acceptable. You may engage in said diplomacy as you see fit."

Lotrabmean Construct
It was largely a delegation consisting of one scientific, one engineering and one diplomatic droid which met with the Lotrabmeans as they constructed the construction. The engineer largely observed the construction of the ring, while the scientific droid was tasked with observing the scientific principles put in use to utilise this well-used Lotrabmean technology. The Diplomatic Droid was on hand to listen as HuBart and Willem both spoke, and relay queries back to them. It was fascinating to Command Prime, how the Mind Empire seemingly reconciled the natural (or, as the KL-22 and Kalyax would have considered it, the supernatural) and the technological. The task was intriguing, of course, and the KL-22 soon realised that, in addition to their FTL capabilities gained from nearby stellar nations, the portal technology of the Lotrabmeans would prove incredibly useful for the continued expansion of the KL-22 Directorate. The KL-22 did not make too many enquiries - the efficiency of the construction was to be the primary aim of the KL-22 in relations with Lotrabme. They would await these 'missionaries', and see what use they could be of.

Communication to Piethrixia
The KL-22 observed the most recent arrivals, and were appreciative of their sending of just the one craft. As such, they sent out a communication explaining the situation to them.

NOTIFICATION: PIETHRIXIAN STATE HAS ENTERED THE CX SYSTEM AND KL-22 SPACE. YOUR MISSION OF PEACE AND EXPLORATION IS APPRECIATED AND NOTED. THE KL-22 GREET YOU.

EXPLANATION: THE KL-22 SENT OUT A SIGNAL TO ASCERTAIN THE PRESENCE OF LIFE IN THE STARS AND TO HOPEFULLY MAKE CONTACT WITH INTERSTELLAR STATES. THE PIETHRIXIAN STATE IS BUT THE MOST RECENT OF THESE STATES TO COME TO THE CX SYSTEM.

Confederate Craft
The Diplomatic Droid attentively listened to the diplomat and admiral, before responding in kind. It first spoke to the diplomat, Louis Andrada.

"The apology delivered by the Confederacy is approved. The KL-22 were pushed to act harshly in retaliation to a variety of factors. These factors have now been largely amended, minus some singular instances requiring future attention."

The Diplomatic Droid quickly pivoted to meet Kane Santos' eyes. Perhaps if the droid were not completely synthetic, some semblance of annoyance might be registered. However, it was entirely synthetic. What would have been registered instead was a somewhat terse, bordering on chiding, response to the hot-headed Admiral's speech.

"The KL-22 Directorate trusts no other state beyond the confines of what it has proven. The entirety of relations between the Confederacy and the Directorate have been mired in some form of conflict. The Confederacy stated not to trust the Mercatusian state, and the KL-22 Directorate does not. Though without reason to, the KL-22 Directorate also does not trust the Confederacy. The Directorate has hopes for the future, that Confederacy forces prove amicable and give the Directorate reason to trust them beyond the simple countermoves you have made to halt Mercatusian influence in Directorate affairs, but the Directorate's prime function remains to serve its own interests."

Finally, the droid pivoted back to the gaze of Louis, responding to his own query.

"The KL-22 Directorate is in possession of said footage. However, the KL-22 Directorate will not give away said footage without valid reasoning. The Confederacy has proven its warlike nature and high technological mastery, similar to the Mercatusian state, but for the KL-22 to trust one above the other, the Directorate must have certain..." The droid paused for a moment, "Guarantees. To safeguard Confederate relations with the KL-22 Directorate and preclude Mercatusian relations with the same, a technology transfer is required, with Confederate technology offered as a guarantee of benevolent intent. For while the Confederacy was not the prime belligerent within CX system space, the Confederacy exacerbated prior conditions within KL-22 space, and as such proved a present and recurring danger to the KL-22, who have at all times been interested in diplomacy above all else. These guarantees met, the Directorate shall offer said footage to the Confederate state, as well as meeting all prior requests from the Confederacy to the KL-22, for the Directorate is adaptable to changing conditions and relations. We will give you time to think on this offer, should you need it," The droid stood up straight and stared at the various parts of the hall, observing them and sending relays to Command Prime, having finished its long speech.

[Piethrixia]

PAFDDD Quail | Bridge

"Were getting another message, this time it didn't mess up our maneuvering thrusters. Hangar bay one is notifying us that the Retribution in the bay is launching." The comms officer looks through the message. "Translation matrix isn't getting a good lock on their language. I think they understood us, but we're having some trouble on our end." They press a few buttons. "It's getting through now. Screen 10."

NOTIFICATION: PIETHRAXIAN STATE HAS ENTERED THE CX SYSTEM AND KL-22 SPACE. YOUR MISSION OF PEACE AND EXPLORATION IS APPRECIATED AND NOTED. THE KL-22 GREET YOU.

EXPLANATION: THE KL-22 SENT OUT A SIGNAL TO ASCERTAIN THE PRESENCE OF LIFE IN THE STARS AND TO HOPEFULLY MAKE CONTACT WITH INTERSTELLAR STATES. THE PIETHRAXIAN STATE IS BUT THE MOST RECENT OF THESE STATES TO COME TO THE CX SYSTEM.

"Start broadcasting again." The captain stands up from his command seat and looks out of the front of the bridge.

Code: Select all

 "It just happened that your signal messed with our Maneuvering system when it went straight through our ship, not to worry my chief engineer repaired the Docking clamp in the bay after a few hours, and swearing. May I ask why you would like to meet with other Interstellar States?"

[Lutvikkia]

IN THE MEDICAL THEATER ABOARD THE UNLISTAA

Dr. Cullivar's body sets in suspended animation. All brain activity stored in a nearby computer bank, and all body fluids drained into assembled containers. All body organs functions arrested for surgery, awaiting the KL-22 team.

Crewman Vakkoliry, awaiting in the observation balcony. His crewmate was safe he kept telling himself, as he paced around. Down below Dr. Binnenshak looked up and gave him the all clear sign, indicating everything would be fine.

MEANWHILE ON THE SHUTTLEDECK

The deck crew stood ready to receive the KL-22, and their crew. Nothing spectacular, as in the reception of other diplomats, however festive to be sure. This is what happens when a lonely medical vessel receives guests, even mechanical ones.
Deck Crewman Brathra Ironchuris: "Look alive there! this may yet be the most important arrival on this floating hospital." Her attempt to ease the deck crew was her trademark, it is why her crew worked, and responded so well. Above the bay, alert klaxons signaled the KL-22 shuttle approach.
The entire deck just stopped, and everyone took their places. Crewman Tazzlok Waxsass took her position where the shuttle would come to rest. As the shuttle door opened, the flag of the KL-22 unfurled. Crewman Waxsass welcomed the droids in a rather monotone manner.
Crewman Tazzlok Waxsass: "Welcome aboard the medical frigate, Unlistaa. I am Crewman Tazzlok Waxsass, or if you prefer W868677, the closest numerical pronunciation of my name. I will be your escort around the ship, should you require anything just signal my comm."

"Addressing the Lutvikkian delegation as requested is unit W35276384, worker unit within the CX-04 mineral production facilities." "Notification: Unit is prepared for whatever tests in store by the Lutvikkian delegation."

Crewman Tazzlok Waxsass: "Understood follow me to your destinations." She turned and started walking to the exit. "Where is the unit designated to assist Dr. Cullivar in the technology mix surgery?"

IN THE ENGINEERING CATHEDRAL

As the Yeoman stopped at the door, she turned to W35276384, and with the same monotone voice.
Crewman Tazzlok Waxsass: "This is your new designated point, until further notice. The Chief Engineer may not receive you as I did."

When the door opened the crew greeted W35276384 with smiles and gestures to enter.
Chief Engineer Harakka Wompare: "Welcome to the Unlistaa the crew is ready to get to know all about you, and start testing your abilities. Are you ready, or do you need a moment to orient yourself with us and the room?"

[Lutvikkia]

Are we rolling the end credits on this ???

[Lutvikkia]

Off in the distance ……….

a lonely beep...beep...beep

the sound of an off course satellite flying through space on its now lonely course.

beep...beep...beep...beep

[Laiakia]

Dovrag, Laiakian Craft
"This is acceptable. The main reason for the KL-22 query is for how the KL-22 is expected to assist in technological advancement. Whether it is in regards to a technology sharing agreement, or for the purpose of actual co-development of technology."

The droid then confirmed the jumping of the Laiakian craft into the system with Command Prime. The confirmation from Command Prime was relayed to the Dovrag, and the craft were given permission to enter KL-22 space, to be met by two KL-22 shuttlecraft, filled with engineering units and science units, enough for all of the craft to be transferred.

Shipyard Templin, Lorus System

Two Prolitariate-Class Battlecruisers and one Superior-Class Carrier floated next to eachother in the silence of space. The crew of all three vessels had just received orders from the goverment to jump into KL-22 space and transfer ownership of the ships as a sign of friendship. The ships started their engines and locked their hangar bays which contained shuttles to transport the crew over to the Drovag. The shipyard quickly dissappeared from view as the ships activated their hyperdrives and entered hyperspace.

USSLS Drovag

Fleet Commander Trion Bloodheart nodded at the droid. "Well, it seems that concludes negotiations. Please contact us if you have any issues."