[Regional RP] Delta Episode

[Athretvari]

Port authorities in Logica greet Nedean Smaug shipment after inspection team claims Loco Coco eggs found.

Athretvari Central Government Issues Quarantee Orders Against Vessels & Aircraft Arriving From Nedea

ARS SCIENTIA — In response to the raging Loco Coco mega-pest outbreak currently devastating Nedean coffee crops, the Athretvari General Ministry of Health & Safety, in conjunction with the general ministries of Environment, Natural Areas & Parklands; Industries & Services; Investigation, Law & Order; and the Strategic Ministry of Defense & Security; has issued temporary “quarantee & burn” orders to the Athretvari Coast Guard (ACG), the Athretvari Customs Authority, and the Athretvari Transport Security Agency to quarantee and inspect all maritime and air vessels, cargo, crew, and passengers arriving in Athretvari that have been within Nedean jurisdictions within the last 2 weeks.

The orders require all maritime vessels currently underway from Nedea and traveling to Athretvari to park in pre-approved “quarantee anchorages” upon arriving to Athretvar waters and await inspection of vessel, cargo, crew, and any passengers by the ACG. Vessels currently at anchorage or in port are to immediately cease all port-pilotage, or boarding/deboarding and cargo/decargo operations, and await inspection by the ACG. If no Loco Coco are found upon inspection, a port-permit will be issued to the vessel allowing it to continue its operations.

Aircraft arriving in Athretvari that have been in Nedean jurisdictions within the last 2 weeks will need to utilize one of 24 airports authorized by the Athretvari Transport Security Agency and there await inspection of the craft, cargo, crew, and any passengers before any deboarding or decargo operations are allowed to commence.

Any infested vessels or aircraft will be evacuated, with crew and/or passengers temporarily hosted as quests of Athretvari. Infested vessels or aircraft and their respective cargoes are authorized to be immediately disinfected, or destroyed in the event of a massive infestation or detection of eggs to insure complete disinfection.

The order also negates any losses occuring within Athretvari jurisdictions as a result of the quarantee or disinfection, classifying them “losses as result of (an) act(s) of nature” for insurance claim purposes.

The Athretvari Central Government is requesting an emergency meeting with Nedean Authorities to discuss the situation and to offer any assistance it can in containing and controlling or eradicating the pest which can pose an incredible threat to Athretvarian agriculture.

Athretvari Prime Minister Vice-Admiral Kao Idaji said he had high confidence in the technate’s robust safety regime and world-class defense & security forces to insure the safety of Athretvari’s and Enkon’s food supply, but that much needed to be done by and in countries such as Nedea to assist in insuring that safety.

[Alseheia]

Clean Up
A single body was thrown across a room, impacting against the thin plastic wall before sliding downwards. The force of the impact left an indention mark, signifying the strength of the thrower. A slightly-harmed Alseheian military drone appeared, walking through the now broken door. With the facility mainly secured at this point, the clean up work with the escaped lesser humans were on the way.

A single boot pressed itself down upon the downed man, the glaring red visor of the soldier gave no feelings of sympathy. Even as the man began to show signs of asphyxiation, the pressure continued. Eventually the rib-cage gave and thus so the chest. The horrific sounds silenced themselves over time as the soldier lifted its boots and tapped the ground.

As a small pool of blood began to form, the soldier turned and continued on its mission. In the hallway, it lifted up the dropped axe.

---

Ileeni

At the response from the Ileeni, the helicopter picked up pace as it flew towards the location of the facility. Naturally, as the vast majority of it was still under clean up, the helicopter landed at the exterior landing zone. There was still a vast amount of activity outside with autonomous drones flying in the skies. There are platoons of soldier-class drones guarding the various entrances with several APCs moving along the paved road.

"Pardon the military presence," Alice apologized as the doors opened up to allow the occupants to step outside, "this is the home of the creature that escaped. We're currently tracking it down and it would be excellent if your people aid us. I believe the researchers on the creature are nearby and will tell you about its weakness."

The rather horrific laughter from the Ileeni wasn't pleasant, but it was manageable. Alice, herself, in her free-time, spent time watching horror movies.

---

(Alseheia's workforce is mainly drones, so most encounters would be with curious A.I.s and robots. )

With the appearance of Ileeni from the waters, the Alseheian security forces of various departments were put on low alert. While they weren't expecting much hostility, they were driven by their directives in protecting their citizens.

[46566]

Grand Duchy seeks to apply for full membership into the Eastern Confederation
Midgar- The Grand Duchy of 46566 has formally applied to join the Eastern Confederation as a full member. The Grand Duchy will be asking if it's possible to change the percentage nation's need to pay or at least cap the amount a nation needs to pay.
While formally looking at other free trade agreements being flown around Delta is is one of the first officaly signed by the Grand Duke himself. This move will seek to expand the nation's trade and reach outside of the wild depths. It's rumored that the Grand Duchy is interested in the cloning technology in the hopes of increasing the quality of life within 46566.

[Alseheia]

In Science We Trust

The Alseheian government has begun research into optimization of its laser weaponry and finding new technologies for more efficient batteries and power generation. With several different projects being worked on in differing fields, the Alseheian government focuses itself in diversity before targeting promising new fields of research. It has also begun a new focus in improving its robotic frames in order to deploy more efficient soldiers with a more secure loyal to Alseheia.

---

A Thirst

Alseheia has focused itself in internal prosperity and had only recently opened up into inspecting the international order of Enkon Delta itself. Its internal desire for expansion from its borders was a natural thing since its inception. The crushing of various primitive tribes that inhabited the general region of modern Alseheia was one of the lesser discussed points, but the history itself is available for any to see and hear.

At current, the Alseheian Military is surveying the general regions around it to determine a potential future spot for expansion.

---

End Game

Various drones of differing sizes and shapes crammed themselves into the spacious halls of the interior portions of the facility. Collecting bodies and cleaning up organic mess, they were in the process of eliminating any trace of death. Debris were swept away with specially designed cleaning robots, hovering above the ground with their soft fans providing the necessary propulsion. Any structural damage were assessed and repaired, lessened, or outright removed if possible.

The Alseheian military had mainly withdrew from any internal departments that weren't of the strictest priorities. Mainly centering themselves with still-contained creatures, they allowed the native security drones to return to their duties.

All in all, it appears as if the situation was mostly contained.

---

The Eastern Confederation
46566
The Eastern Confederation, referred to as the E.C. in this response to the Grand Duchy has accepted the request for membership within its halls. It has also considered the request for an unique percentage requirement from the Grand Duchy and with further review, the E.C. will agree to discuss requirements more sensible to the Grand Duchy. The E.C. itself is willing to, in the interest of strengthening cooperation between all of its member states, in sharing technological abilities.

May the East shine eternally.

Eastern Confederation Representative A.I. from Alseheia: Virtuous Intent | A.I. Code: 41F09ADS

[Ileeni]

The deeper depths have bowed to the will of the new single the ruler of the Ileeni. Those who have opposed have an executed will have have been rounded up and now currently awaiting their fate. The new Chief has shown little Mercy to those who have who have fought against him but most common soldiers have been spared. The leaders however have not. Those who have fun against them having put on a a glowing road and metallic cages the skeletons hanging and drifting in the slight breeze as a warning against all who would doubt and and deny his his rightful rulership over all of The Maw. With the chieftain doing business with with the land dwellers, his followers have swiftly seen to the enforce his will being done. Minor Chieftains or settlement owners who both feel intimidated or admiration for the newest conquers tenacity in making the goal that had been lost several hundred thousand years to make the Ileeni a singular united front. Those who dwell on the land have noticed new activity strange activity from the deep blue oceans. Strange ships and units gleaming white armor plating gear with no face and heavy armed patrolling around the oceans. Those who have gone to close have paid the price. Disappearances and radio contact being lost as a somehow some mystical energy was blocking out radio contact. And now those those same units all appearing on the beaches curious and alien in nature. Weather reports of pirates dealing with these Ileeni have proved to be both true and interesting. reports of a purchases of ships and Technology as well and weapons and food in a new front of the black market internationally have been confirmed by agents of the law. This has been going on for at least several weeks even before first Contact with most land based governments. Hello the government react to this new coaches items and cooperation between the unlawful thieves and raiders, aligning with alien aquatic Raiders has yet to be determined. Despite Promises of cooperation and peace it is obvious something else is going on beneath the surface. What does new cooperation with illegal Black Market and newly discovered tribes of the deep underwater realm has yet to be revealed.

The chieftain looks and approval. " Strong military presence " he says approvingly. " please show me where the creature escaped, I'm sending some of my tribesmen to track her but only a few as l need to keep control for my new realm. I'm sure you understand however we can find a way to track her off on the way to dispose of her safely if that is your wish. We will be most happy to do so but if you are getting rid of her we would like to keep the body it would prove fruitful to us. "

[46566]

Strange creatures appear on Duchy beaches
Summers- Strange creatures have appeared near the seaside city of Summers. Around 300 or so what appear to be fish people have came out of the sea. The locals have called the police which set up a perimeter and await local military forces to arrive. The police have tried to corral the lifeforms away from their ship and to take possession of the ship. Should they sense any hostile actions the police are ready to meet it with force.

Grand Duchy seeks to pay 2%
Midgar- The Grand Duke has asked the EC to allow the Grand Duchy to pay 2% of it's budget to the EC to meet the requirements for full membership. That would roughly equal 10 trillion ducats in spending. The Grand Duchy will be willing to pay more once other member states equal the payment of the Grand Duchy.

[Ileeni]

the 300 or so suited figures are waiting upon the beach. A silent huddled mass of white suited characters sitting on the beach. Their white faceless features a strange eerie feature on the pearl beaches as if they are awaiting something. They shift away from their ship seeming to have little no to no fight left in them. you can see certain aspects of a battle that had happened. Several seem to clutch greenish colored stains that seep slowly. A small group of them are having a kind of conversation and others are bringing in small fish from the ocean. The group breaks up and you see a tall slightly injured creature walk towards the police barricade its hands up and no weapons in its grasp. It makes a strange chattering sound that seems to sound like quick paced Morse code gunfire

[Alseheia]

Locust

Swarms of drones covered the skies along the borders of Alseheia, buzzing through the landscape. Like great locusts, they descended down upon the ground, observing every intricate detail and surveying the value of expansion. Animals were picked off part by part, captured or outright killed by the drones. Where lush teeming wildlife once roamed an area, only the smallest of creatures escaped the hungry gazes. Human settlements weren't ignored by the hungry drones either, darting throughout houses and buildings. Any being with an attempt at fighting back were cut into pieces by the sharp metallic mandibles.

---

Waters Edge

"Of course, you may keep the body and study it if that is your wish," Alice replied politely as she gestured for him to follow her, "the location of Belua's holding cell is rather far from here, but I was informed we can use an emergency service tram and quick-link to that locale. If you would follow me, that would be great. And as long as we have your cooperation that would be excellent."

Within the holding chambers of the aquatic creatures, several security drones patrolled the waters, armed with weapons designed to punch through the water surface with minimum energy loss. A single android crouched down, near the water, with an inquisitive expression. Scanning the integrity of the walls and the various gates, it shook its head. Something had opened the gate on purpose.

---

Response to the Grand Duchy

The Eastern Confederation has accepted the requested percentage of GDP. Welcome to the Eastern Confederacy.

Virtuous Intent, Representative of the Eastern Confederation

[46566]

the 300 or so suited figures are waiting upon the beach. A silent huddled mass of white suited characters sitting on the beach. Their white faceless features a strange eerie feature on the pearl beaches as if they are awaiting something. They shift away from their ship seeming to have little no to no fight left in them. you can see certain aspects of a battle that had happened. Several seem to clutch greenish colored stains that seep slowly. A small group of them are having a kind of conversation and others are bringing in small fish from the ocean. The group breaks up and you see a tall slightly injured creature walk towards the police barricade its hands up and no weapons in its grasp. It makes a strange chattering sound that seems to sound like quick paced Morse code gunfire

Watching one of the creatures walking towards him the patrolman cursed his luck. This has been hired third week out of the Academy. Thinking back he thought that his only problem of the day was that his fto was complaining about his wife again
"Sir, how do we actually handle this? I don't remember any course in the Academy about this"
"Simple officer Smith I delay untill you get either a Sergeant or Lieutenant gets here and let this be there problem. We're just the guys who write tickets, this is way above our pay grades. The military should be here in around 10 minutes and then it's there problem."
As the thing reaches normal speaking range the patrolman runs to get the first Sergeant or Lieutenant he sees.
" I'm corporal Jones and I hope you understand me"

[Polarisium]

Alseheia

The Summit

The arriving Alseheian delegation was met by a guide, a woman in her twenties who was dressed in an official suit. When the representatives disembarked from their shuttle, she walked to them and introduced herself.

“Good afternoon, my name is Pia, I will be your guide for the duration of your stay in our country,” she smiled. “If you will follow me.”

Pia led the representatives through a multitude of doors and checks, which were cleared very fast, and then the open galleries, which were usually off-limits for passengers. Numerous people could be seen below, under canopies of holographic trees, which seemed rather little with how spacious the hall seemed to be. It was the middle of the day, so trees were there only for decoration purposes as the rays of the sun passed through transparent wall unhindered.

“This is the main hall of the Spaceport of Polaris,” Pia explained. “Tens of thousands of passengers come and go every day. This is one of the busiest and certainly the largest spaceport in the country.”

After leaving the spaceport the delegation was invited to take their seats in a sleek black car. It took off shortly after that, gliding over the spires and the urban expanse below, where transparent streets allowed one to look under the surface of the city, where streets were illuminated by all shades of the rainbow.

“We are going to the Caupona Hotel, where your lodgings will be for the duration of the summit, after that I will be available to you 24/7 should you need a guide,” Pia explained. “The opening meeting of the summit will be tomorrow at 8 am.”

---

Tomorrow

Caupona Hotel occupied a section in one of the stratoscrapers, overlooking the Argus Park, named, as Pia explained to the delegates, after one of the most prominent founders of Polaris. As such it was large, well-kept and open for all. The car that took the representatives to the summit glided right above it, over the forested areas and trimmed meadows, artificial springs and ponds as well as a bizarre place Pia called the Argus Natural Museum. Its building, rather unsurprisingly in hindsight, looked like some kind of molluskoid shell.

At last the car reached one of the higher spires ad landed near the square in front of it. It was mostly empty, aside from the many Polarean flags waving in the wind on either side of it, framing a road to the entrance.

“This is the Government Spire, the summit will be held there,” Pia said rather needlessly. No doubt the delegates were already aware after the yesterday briefing at the hotel.

[Ileeni]

46566

As Officer Jones approaches the strange creature it removes a cube from its hand. Several symbols appear in a holographic screen. It appears to be an old type of naval touchscreen, now beaten up and rusted from longtime water exposure. The speakers crackle to life and you hear a strange series of buzzing, cracking and clicking that he first believes due to be the age of the device but when it increases he remembers an old worn out tv show about dolphins. It was an incredibly complex type of underwater echolocation. As this location words crackle across the screen

" Ocean "

" flee "

" war "

" battle "

" assist "

" human "


As this ends the figure says something, but the suit muffles it however he points towards his group then himself. then he points towards the city and draws a rectangle with his hand. He also imitates handing something to him then jabs quickly with his hand as if he was to be holding a weapon. he opens his gloved palms which are empty. With this you see the entire crowd of the strange beings turn almost as one as if expecting something.

[46566]

Officer Jones was surprised that the things talked out of a box. Did that mean that they were incapable of speech without said box? Another curiosity is that they new the Delta basiclanguage as to his knowledge this was first contact. Given the broken message the people in front of him are war refugees of some sort. Eyeing over to his side he noticed Smith grabbing the Lieutenant.
"May I take a wild guess sir that you and your people are some sort of refugees? My partner went to get my superior . He is bringing her over as we speak."
Pointing to the east of him saw the the other police officer who ran off coming over was a tall Auburn haired woman. She came from a family of cops her father and uncle holding the rank of Deputy chief of police and Inspector.
"Lieutenant Grace this may be the leader of the group. He spoke out of the box in his hand and may be a group of refugees."
"Thank you officer Jones can you go and try and find out where any of the medical services are?"
Officer Jones took a few steps back to call into his wake-takie.
" I'm Lieutenant Grace while I can't offer much until the military gets her I can try and get your people patched up."

[Ileeni]

46566
VERY nice! thank you

The creature reaches into his other pocket and brings out something in his hand. clumsily he offers it to her. It is a crusty looking box and when she opens it there is a ruby the size of a fist in it. He turns around a gives a low keyed whistle. As a group you see them begin to move into a single line. The head creature then takes out a spraycan. He shakes it then aims at the sandy earth. walking backwards clumsily, he begins to draw a single dark red line. The smell is pungent and you see heads jerk as the spray of red velvet paint is released from the can. he then walks backwards every so often glancing at the landswimming Chief in charge to make sure he is going in the right direction. As one, holding on their comrades shoulders the slow conga line of aliens begins to move following the odor of the paint can.

*Ileeni are actually blind and can only navigate by a mixture of sonar and chemical scent.*

[Alseheia]

Arrival

Attempting virtual connection protocols... recipient accepted... loading encryption algorithms... establishing virtual chat server... done...

Virtuous Courage dressed herself in a simple android body, replicating a delicate and easy-on-the-eye appearance, and replicated the standard formal wears of an Alseheian politician. While listening to Pia, she focused her attention on the rather unique architecture of Polarisium. Constant data streams between her and Doubtful Course allowed for the most complete observation. Not a single step between them were missed either, their security guards giving them constant pathfindings. Despite their human-like appearance, it was clear that their actions were inhuman in how meticulous and calculated each movement is.

Where Virtuous Courage focused herself more on the occasional bits of information Pia would drop for them, Doubtful Course focused more on the architecture of Polarisium. Having a small fascination in the culture of other nations, he found the general idea of Polaris to be intricate and beautiful. Unlike the modern, post-modern, and simple structures of Alseheia, Polaris had a certain charm to him. If he was able to, he would certainly petition to the Alseheian Government to release him on a vacation.

Impressive?

Certainly.

Too easy to please.

---

The Day After

General goals detailed?

Naturally.

Being within android bodies, the need for rest or relaxation did not occur to either of the Alseheian A.I.s. Communicating silently, they observed the governmental building with faint interest. Both distributed their personal goals and determined the best course of action. Virtuous Intent's priority was the recruitment of Polarisium as either a full or associate member. Doubtful Course intended to establish good and long-lasting treaties between his and Polarisium's government. By organizing their thoughts, it prevented any conflicting interests to be set in place. Neither had much experience with one another.

"Thank you for escorting us here," Virtuous Intent began politely, maintaining her appearance, "we appreciate your efforts, even if we maintained our silence the majority of the time. May you do the honors of leading us to the summit room?"

Doubtful Course only gave a small nod of agreement.

[Polarisium]

Alseheia

The Summit

“Of course,” Pia replied after consulting with what looked like her wristwatch.

The interior of the building looked very much like the exterior. Transparent walls of the many winding galleries let the sun bask the hall in its golden glow, painting the otherwise grey floors and green leaves of the trees which grew around the chamber rich-golden. It was surprisingly empty though, for a home of the central government this place looked entirely deserted. Only several people passed buy, engrossed in either reading or typing something on pads seemingly made of molten light, which floated in front of them.

“Working day begins early in Polarisium, ends relatively early too,” Pia explained. “Most jobs start at 7 am. The conference was called at this hour precisely to avoid rush hours.”

The group eventually reached the lifts, which also had transparent walls and allowed visitors to take a look at the entrance hall from the distance. So high above one could see a giant white phoenix painted among the sea of grey with words “Unitum in Felicitas” and “Pax Polaris” circling around it.

“Above the phoenix is our motto: ‘United in Prosperity’,” Pia said. “Pax Polaris is the treaty of union between spires and our Constitution.”

The lift stopped and the doors, which surprisingly at this point, weren’t transparent, revealed a gallery of doors. When the group reached room 1108, Pia stopped. “This is where the negotiations will take place. The Polarean delegates are no doubt already waiting. I have no clearance to proceed beyond this door, unfortunately. You will be able to call me just by asking one of the local AI’s for me.”

Beyond the door was another rather large room, which was despite its size rather sparsely decorated. Only a few pictures adorned the walls and the large round table was the only item of furniture. The windows, which took up all of the walls, provided the view of morning Polaris in all its gleaming spires.

Three men and a woman sat at the table, when they noticed the newcomers everyone stood up.

“Welcome, Ms. Virtuous Courage and Mr. Doubtful Course,” one of the men said with a small smile, “my name is Theodore Scato, I am the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Polarisium. This is my assistant Mrs. Julia Atrecia,” he nodded at the woman to his right, “and our legal experts Mr. Marcus Tollum and Mr. Gaius.”

Both men nodded at the delegates, though the latter one shimmered slightly, apparently being nothing but a very good hologram.

“It is very nice to meet you. I trust your stay in our city has been good so far?” Theodore asked, inviting the representatives to sit at the table.

[St Saratoga]

Saratogan Times
”Keeping Saratoga informed of all of the affairs domestic & international.”
Economic conditions have Leadership looking abroad, Senate domestically.

Cost: K$ 1.50

---

Union Center, St. Saratoga-- At the order of Prime Minister Rebekka Asp imposes trade sanctions against all products coming from Argus Organic Enterprise and Corporeal Industries after the outbreak causing the destruction the Nedean coffee industry. While ironically drinking from a cup of newly imported Athretvari coffee, Asp stated that “The trade sanctions will be lifted once these corporations within the Syndicate prove that they can responsibly and successfully modify crops without destroying the while yield in the process. We say this as an act of self-defense, not an act of aggression against the Syndicate.”

In response to the shortage of medical supplies being imported into the nation, Saratogan hospitals were ordered too not waste current storage of materials and the Department of the Economy has issues 10% production increase in a pharmaceutical and medical manufacturing in its state control companies to make up for the difference. The production increase cost to the economy hasn’t been calculated get but it’s expected to effect the overall national GPD growth.

---

Naval Center, St. Saratoga -- With the Saratogan manufacturing and industrial production increasing at historically slow paces Senator Steffen Erichsen who caucuses as the Minority Leader for the Industrial Economic Freedom Party presented S.R. 406 otherwise known as “The Wild Depths Defense and Armament Preparedness Act of 1178.” The hope that by investing massive amounts into military production and expansion the increased demand will stimulate manufacturing growth.

S.R. 406 calls for an expansion of the previously declared “Sphere of Influence” as to expand Saratogan military and economic further South into The Wild Depths. The plan is to triple the size of the “Sphere of Influence” through the contraction of radar and military bases in places like the Island of 10.05, 10.07, 05.12, 11.12 and 16.10 in The Wild Depths/The Screaming Maw. It also calls for a similar expansion in The Gleaming Tides at places like 27.05, 33.07 and 39.02. The bases will primarily serve as Naval and Air Base with moderate Infantry presence. The bases will host medium-long range bombers, long range recon, and shorter-range fighter/interceptors. Naval-wise, the ships will be frigates, cruisers, axillary ships with some faculties outfitted to host submarines or Light Aircraft Carriers.

The second part of S.R. 406 legislation also calls for the modernization and expansions of all branches of the Saratogan Military through the commissioning of private military companies to take the place of units that are placed temporarily out-of-commission as upgrading and refitting takes place. The legislation allocates K$ 12.5 Trillion for upgrades to the military with apart of the budget going to expansion of the military. With the number of units in the being cut by over 3.000 division the legislation calls for the longer-term resurrection of 1.500 of those units.

The final part of the legislation is the formal Declaration of Protection to the nation of Palatavia. Since the isolated state was founded, the Saratogan neighbor has seen hardly any growth or any life of real international sentience. The legislation and declaration guarantees the protection of the nation with intention being made to establish a “domestic partnership” between the new nations as a way to improve economic diversity and opportunity to both nations.

S.R. 406 was signed into law by Prime Minister Asp after it passed the Senate days later by a vote of 330-220.

---

Rogerbei, Saratoga -- Chancellor Jonathan Stewart with Kaiser-Queen Elizabeth Durant the III have announced their intention to travel to a few nations around the globe to increase the relationship between St. Saratoga and those who he will be visiting. The Chancellor will be escorted by the 13th Infantry Division, the historical division lead by Grand Admiral Saratoga in the Siege of Rogerbei during the Gresk Civil War. The Chancellor will also be joined by his wife, Admiral Arvo Mikkonen and Majority Leader Senator Robin Orvik of the DFL. The nations the Chancellor will be wanting to visit will be in this order; Coalition of Ordered Governments, Alesheia, Texasiva, and 46566 before returning back to St. Saratoga.

The Kaiser-Queen will escorted by the Kaiser Guard, elite unit of Infantry within the Saratogan military who earned their reputation through their ruthless style of warfare they carried out during defense of the Saratogan theocrats. The Kaiser-Queen will be visiting the Syndicates of Nedea, Athretvari and Moarfall on her trip. Her objective has been stated as too secure a relationship with current nation (Moarfall and The Syndicate) and start the process introductions with more distance nations (Athretvari).

The specific discussions that are planned to take place with each nation will be classified until after the meeting is to take place, but rumor serves that the Saratogan leadership is exploring the possibility of “greater cooperation” according to a source within the Department of International Affairs.

---

Clair Underwood
Senior Political Correspondent
Rogerbei Times

[Vienetas]

After many strenuous months of work, the Jangalwa Radio Tower was finally complete. As the final bolts were tightened and the last wires installed, Ingvar Sobol and General Caspian Nazari trudged through the thick snow to the mountain peak where the tower stood.

"Shall I give you the honors?" Nazari asked, his voice muffled by the the thick scarf that covered his face. Sobol nodded.

"Thank you, General," he said, proceeding into the small cubicle where broadcasts could be made and received. The General remained outside, leaning against the door to prevent anyone else from entering. A short, shriveled-looking radio operator was waiting for Sobol, and handed him a small microphone.

"Just tell me when you're ready, sir, and I'll start the broadcast."

"Thank you," Sobol muttered, producing a number of papers from within his thick coat. He spread them out on the desk, examining his speech one last time before he broadcast it the world over. Perhaps he should've resisted the pressure of the holy men to make his first speech religion-based, but in the mountains, Sobol was still considered a guest, and he was expected to act accordingly. He made a small prayer that this acquiescence on his part would not backfire. "I'm ready."

The operator twisted some dials, and a soft whirring noise filled the room. Soon after, the faint sound of static could be heard from Sobol's microphone. Sobol looked to the operator, who gave a silent nod. Sobol brought the microphone up to his mouth and began to speak.

"Greetings, fellow denizens of the planet.

My name is Ingvar Sobol, I am the leader of a nation known as Vienetas. We are refugees of a cruel and destructive world, and settled here some ten years ago in search of a better world. We seek peaceful relations with the people of this planet.

However, we believe that in order for us to easily come to diplomatic terms, we should provide a little information about our culture..."

Sobol stopped for a moment. It wasn't until now that he realized how truly dangerous it could be to reveal the details of Vienetese religion. He knew firsthand how violent religious conflict could be. Nevertheless, a promise was a promise.

"While religion does not play a large role in the politics of Vienetas, it is an important aspect of life for many Vienetese citizens. The grand majority of Vienetese people practice some variation of Akhtus- literally "to return" in Vienetese.
God, Prophets, and Other Figures of Akhtus:
The primary figure of worship is Mimo- a being defeated in a great cosmic battle long ago by the ancient demon Ranya- whose body was torn to pieces and scattered across the universe. Those pieces of Mimo became trapped in the souls of every human on Earth- or, in this case, on Enkon Delta. Because it is believed that Mimo is the sum of all humanity, it is never depicted in art as a definable being. In ancient theocratic times, depiction of Mimo as any one person was punishable by public flogging. Today it is merely regarded as extremely tasteless.

This belief that all humanity holds a piece of Mimo's soul has one ultimate goal: the holy cultivation of the soul. Citizens are encouraged to continue to learn and grow themselves spiritually throughout their lives, such as through rituals, community engagement, and study of the natural world. This growth feeds the soul of Mimo and allows it to grow stronger than it ever could have been if not for the intervention of the believer. It is believed that when one dies, if they lived a good and virtuous life, their soul will return to Mimo and participate in the final battle against Ranya.

Because of this belief that Mimo is an essential aspect of the soul, many holy men and women partake in a ritual known as "Ziarifa"- or "communion"- in which they speak directly from their fragment of Mimo. However, as different pieces of Mimo represent different parts of its body, the information from this ritual may differ. For example, those single-mindedly focused on work or support of society are referred to as the "hands" or "feet" of Mimo. Those who are very emotional or concerned with the well-being of others are referred to as the "stomach" of Mimo (the stomach is thought to be the center of emotion in Vienetese culture). However, those whose Ziarifa yield revolutionary or highly unusual information are the most revered. They are the Dazath- the minds and souls of Mimo.

Among the legendary Dazath are Eisol the Savior, Weiktor the Virtuous, and Erega the Spirit. While the tales of these prophets are varied and numerous, there are similarities between all of them that many practitioners cite as evidence of Akhtus's truth: Each performed their first great feat through Ziarifa at exactly 28 years old, refused to marry or have children throughout their lives, and died 28 years later. Many Akhtusians believe that Ingvar Sobol, who orchestrated the escape of a doomed people at age 28 and has not married nor had children 10 years later, is a fourth Dazath, but many more cynical preachers believe this to just be a means for Sobol to sustain public support.

The final and perhaps the most important major figure in Akhtus is Ranya, the being who destroyed the body of Mimo. It is often depicted as a nightmarish patchwork of man, beast, and rock, though no two depictions are the same. However, each depiction has one thing in common: long, black claws to rip God into pieces and great white wings to scatter them across eternity. It is believed that, if one leads a sinful life, they will join the ranks of Ranya in the final battle against Mimo.

Holy Texts and Beliefs:
The 4 holy texts of Akhtus consist of Predja (sometimes referred to as "The Beginning"), Prosja ("The Life"), Vysdja ("The Death"), and Akirja ("The End"). Predja, as its name implies, is a series of creation myths detailing the fundamental conflict of Mimo, a being symbolizing the sum of all knowledge, an unrestrained idealist who defied Ranya, creator of the Universe, who believed that his creation should not be disturbed. However, a significant portion of the Predja consists of various astronomical diagrams that, to the untrained eye, may seem sinister or occult, but in truth are very holy to the Akhtusians. However, many of the charts featured in classical Predja texts are no longer recognizable to many Vienetese people, considering they now live under the sky of a different planet. The High Speakers of Akhtus in Hykhost are working fervently to chart the stars of Enkon Delta for future editions of the Predja.

Prosja is a set of guidelines for living a holy life and cultivating the soul of Mimo. These include 4 basic moral groundings:

1. Do no harm to any person, including yourself
2. Aid those whose souls are in need
3. Ziarifa is to be performed once every 7 days, and supplementary rituals to be taken as necessary
4. Pursue knowledge wherever it leads you

Many Vienetese scholars have speculated the possibility of other intelligent life on Enkon Delta, and because of this, many more progressive Speakers have proposed a 5th moral grounding:

5. If any non-human creature is determined to hold the soul of Mimo, they are to be welcomed as our own

Vysdja is a book of rituals to be performed during and after one's death. Some of these rituals, especially those surrounding the death of a virtuous person, may be considered very unusual. For example, when a good Akhtusian dies, they are to be slathered in a mixture of pig's fat and blessed honey and hung by their hands at the highest available peak. It is believed that, when one dies, the scavenging creatures that devour the body are in fact spiriting its essence into the cosmos, where it will join either Mimo or Ranya. They are placed up very high, as close as their physical bodies can get to the cosmos, in order for these scavenging creatures to find them more easily. At high altitudes, a Pozhar- or hearth-tender- is employed to keep the bodies warm enough to putrefy in order to attract scavengers. Once only the bones remain, they are placed in a sacred ossuary so that future Akhtusians may admire the sacrifices of the dead.

Conversely, with those who lived a wicked life, their remains are tightly sealed in stone and buried deep underground, for it is believe that if any scavenging animal should find the corpse and consume it, their soul would be taken by Ranya. By placing them in a stone (or, in more modern times, concrete) tomb, they prevent the soul from escaping.

Those who had never known or did not believe in Akhtus are buried underground as well, though they are not hermetically sealed. Akhtusians believe that, when a nonbeliever dies, their flesh and bones become the rock and soil of the Earth. While the Earth is giving, it will ultimately be destroyed when the final battle comes. One must reflect solemnly on the role of the Earth.

Akirja, The End, depicts a time that comes when the last human being dies. With the fragments of Mimo back together and the forces of Ranya gathered together once more, they will fight once more until one or the other is destroyed. However, since both beings are immortal, whomever is destroyed will be reformed again, and the cycle will continue forever.

All that was will be again, all that is not will be one day.

Thank you for listening, and if anyone is out there, please respond to our message. Good night."

Sobol waved his hand at the operator, signalling for him to cut off the broadcast. The operator flipped a switch, and at once the static in the room died. Sobol got up from his seat and opened the door.

"Nazari, we are finished," he said, "Come inside where it's warm."

The general shuffled in and closed the door gingerly behind him. "So what's our next move?" he said.

"For now," Sobol replied, "all we can do is wait."

[46566]

46566
VERY nice! thank you

The creature reaches into his other pocket and brings out something in his hand. clumsily he offers it to her. It is a crusty looking box and when she opens it there is a ruby the size of a fist in it. He turns around a gives a low keyed whistle. As a group you see them begin to move into a single line. The head creature then takes out a spraycan. He shakes it then aims at the sandy earth. walking backwards clumsily, he begins to draw a single dark red line. The smell is pungent and you see heads jerk as the spray of red velvet paint is released from the can. he then walks backwards every so often glancing at the landswimming Chief in charge to make sure he is going in the right direction. As one, holding on their comrades shoulders the slow conga line of aliens begins to move following the odor of the paint can.

*Ileeni are actually blind and can only navigate by a mixture of sonar and chemical scent.*

As she pockets the Ruby lieutenant Grace leads the weridest conga line to where the medical services personal are starting to set up a possible treatment center. Looking back to the leader of the group of fish
"Continue forward to the tents and the emt's will help you the best they can. As we are not overly familiar with your species development I hope we could help."
Watching the group go to the tents she could only question what will happen to the group of fish things. Maybe she should have asked for a species name. Shaking her head she she she continued to think it's not like they are fully human anyways. Should the military think they are useful then they will be settled somewhere and watched. She wondered if they could be from some eugenic experiment gone wrong? Though while a form of Genome editing happens in 46566 it's government run to edit out genetic abnormalities. Why would anything but human? If these things came from the ocean then their technology may prove useful. What ever happens to these things her job is done.

[Moarfall]

MNN
Moarfallian News Network

11780815 MC, 1930 hours West Delta Sea Time [WDS]

Morning News Bulletin

A few days ago, Chancellor Jonathan Stewart and Kaiser-Queen Elizabeth Durant the III of St Saratoga announced their intentions to travel to neighboring nations. The Council Leader Onik Mul has been very busy the last few days and unavailable for public comment, possibly due to the events taking place at Emris Point later tonight. He was finally seen leaving Capitol Tower in Acheron, presumably heading to Talos Command Center, he had this to say:

"I'm glad to see our KU partner to the North traveling and improving relations. We ourselves here in Moarfall are attempting to expand our own relations with the globe as a whole. We will gladly welcome them into Acheron and Moarfall. As for our Western KU partner, we understand they're having some pest problems as of late, and I'd like to remind everyone that Moarfall has the perfect climate for coffee growth and a distinct lack of pink smog." He smiles slyly at the camera and laughs, giving the press a wave before disappearing into his Quick-Silver L7 VTOL car.

The Moarfallian military has confirmed that the Chancellor and Kaiser-Queen's 13th Infantry Division will also be given the extra security of the MGC's 21st Company of the Mobile Infantry for the duration of the trip that occurs in Moarfallian lands. The Military Council also extended the use of it's 7th Naval Fleet for use in escorting the Kaiser-Queen and St Saratoga's 13th Infantry Division through the Wild Depths and Privateers Sea.

Moarfall is also expected to attend the Polarisium Summit; there will be representatives from the High Council, Conglomerate Council, Moarfall's KU Office, and some Military Council members. Moarfall is hopeful to improve standings with the proud nation of Polarisium and break the ice with the Eastern Confederacy and other Eastern nations. The nation also seeks to improve individual standings with the above mentioned offices in the East.

In other news, Moarfall is also expected to launch it's first Manticore-Class Interplanetary Ship. The newest ship to the Moarfallian fleet is a frigate under the direction of the Moarfallian Space Command. The MSC is also expected to take the Moarfallian Terrestrial Navy under it's wing soon enough. The name of the Manticore is the MSC Fury. The payload aboard the ship is said to be the beginnings of a brand new space station for Moarfall. The station is allegedly to stay in geosynchronous orbit over the capitol, and it's name and function is unknown to the press at this time. The launch is said to take place from Emris Point at 2200 hours tonight.



11780815 MC, 2200 hours [WDS]

The MSC's Terrestrial Control Room 3 was buzzing with activity, holodesks flashing with updates and readouts, interns swarming to get higher ups coffee and the occasional whiskey, and admirals and generals overseeing it all; standing around the massive holoprojector in the center of the room. It currently displayed the MSC Fury in drydock at Aerospace Unlimited's new Interplanetary Ship building facility. There was a countdown circling the projection in the center, it read 1 minute 30 seconds and was counting down. An admiral stepped up to a raised platform with a floating holodesk and keyed a button of light.

"Fury, this is Admiral of Naval Operations Stenz at Tango Sierra Charlie, pre-launch checks are completed, is the crew and command deck ready? Over."

"Roger, Admiral. This is Captain Loch, Fury's crew and bridge are set for launch. Over."

The Admiral glances at the timer, 45 seconds to launch. He keys the button again.

"Roger that Captain, please initiate main reactor startup and standby for launch cue. Over."

"Copy that Admiral, reactor is spinning up and standing by for launch cue. Captain Loch over and out."

On Emris Point, a low deep hum rumbles over the desert hills as the main fusion reactor of the MSC Fury starts up. A ten second timer can be hear inside of the ship building facility as the external boosters begin to fire, creating a blast of smoke, fire, and plasma as the powerful engines roar to life. The clamps disengage from the frigate and it begins to lift upwards. The ship ascends into the sky slowly at first, then slowly speeds up before activating it's main engines. The ship is now miles above Delta, and miles over The Cauldron. The boosters fall back to the planet, and it's main engines take over, now at full power. The ship angles upwards, towards space, and begins to climb.

After a few minutes, the ship's engines falter and die, leaving the ship floating upwards in orbit over Delta. The bridge crew breathes a sigh of relief. Captain Loch signals to his Navigational Officer to engage the Ion Engines, and the engines switch from a orange and white hot expulsion to a light blue. The Fury begins to make it's way towards orbit over Acheron. Once there, the ship launches multiple construction drones from it's cargo bay, and the drones begin to empty the cargo hold of what will become Moarfall''s newest and biggest satellite. Once confirming the cargo hold was empty and closed, Captain Loch keyed the radio on his chair's holopad.

"Admiral, this is Captain Loch, cargo is deployed and assembly has begun. Shall we continue and deliver our next cargo before returning? Over."

"Roger that, captain. Proceed with the plan like we established, over and out."

The Captain nodded and had his Navigational Officer plot a course for the Privateer's Sea. Once overhead, the captain keyed his comms again.

"Albatross, this is Captain Loch of the MSC Fury, everything still in place down below? Over."

The comms crackled for a few seconds before the pilot responded.

"Yessir, sending the targeting data now. Over."

Loch watched as the holodisplay showed the Albatross making it's way over to the ship and docking successfully. His Weapons Officer loaded the data and adjusted based on the Radar and Observation Officer's new input. The holodisplay shifted to show 3 different areas of the Privateers Enclave. One was a dock with multiple ships in port, all with the Thirsty Armada's logo and armed guards on ship and the docks. The last 2 were small groups of pirate ships traveling to or from the Enclave's many docks. A smile crept onto Loch's face. The albatross pilots had been observing the ships the last week and a half, watching and observing and sending the data to TSC for in depth analysis. Definitely pirates, no hostages aboard, and currently planning to raid many Nedean, Midgari, Athretvar, and Moarfallian ships in the coming days and weeks, and with the congregation that's formed at dock, they could be planning something big. With the Saratogan Chancellor and Kaiser-Queen traveling in the area, this was something that had to be dealt with. Loch turned to his Weapon's Officer.

"Ready Archer Missile Silos 1 through 3. Target the docks, and flagships of each of the groups. 1 each and we'll observe the damage and designate new targets after some observation."

"Yes Captain!"

The officer began to type and manipulate his display. The holodisplay on the bridge now had target markers on each spot Loch mentioned. The officer swiped his display once more and the display asked for captain's confirmation.

"Fire"



A Thirsty Armada pirate stumbled his way from the gate to the building the others were in. He ducked into an alley to take a leak and looked over at all the ships in the port, their mooring being pulled on as the ships rocked gently. He suddenly saw a bright light overhead, and squinted into it, wondering why someone shot up a flare or firework. He then realized it was not shooting up, but down, and fast. He sprinted towards the building, but he never made it before the missile impacted and blew the docks to a steaming crater.

Out to sea, another group of pirates were playing cards when they felt their boat rock ferociously and heard a massive explosion. They all ran to see why they had almost capsized, out on the deck they saw the smoking remains of the other ships sinking into the waters, with a chunk of the bridge of theirs torn away. They were not taking on water, and could still move, so they set course to head back to dock. They also saw more billows of smoke on the horizon in the enclave. What they didn't see, was the 50kg chunk of tungsten that slammed into the center of their boat. It punched a hole straight through the boat's hull, before the resulting force of the Tactical MAKER Cannon's round tore the ship in half and produced a vertical flash of disturbed atmosphere collapsing in on the vacuum formed by the shot's sheer velocity; followed by the loudest thunder the now dead pirate's ears would have ever heard.

[Ileeni]

46566
VERY nice! thank you

The creature reaches into his other pocket and brings out something in his hand. clumsily he offers it to her. It is a crusty looking box and when she opens it there is a ruby the size of a fist in it. He turns around a gives a low keyed whistle. As a group you see them begin to move into a single line. The head creature then takes out a spraycan. He shakes it then aims at the sandy earth. walking backwards clumsily, he begins to draw a single dark red line. The smell is pungent and you see heads jerk as the spray of red velvet paint is released from the can. he then walks backwards every so often glancing at the landswimming Chief in charge to make sure he is going in the right direction. As one, holding on their comrades shoulders the slow conga line of aliens begins to move following the odor of the paint can.

*Ileeni are actually blind and can only navigate by a mixture of sonar and chemical scent.*

As she pockets the Ruby lieutenant Grace leads the weridest conga line to where the medical services personal are starting to set up a possible treatment center. Looking back to the leader of the group of fish
"Continue forward to the tents and the emt's will help you the best they can. As we are not overly familiar with your species development I hope we could help."
Watching the group go to the tents she could only question what will happen to the group of fish things. Maybe she should have asked for a species name. Shaking her head she she she continued to think it's not like they are fully human anyways. Should the military think they are useful then they will be settled somewhere and watched. She wondered if they could be from some eugenic experiment gone wrong? Though while a form of Genome editing happens in 46566 it's government run to edit out genetic abnormalities. Why would anything but human? If these things came from the ocean then their technology may prove useful. What ever happens to these things her job is done.

46566

The strange group wobbles and weaves into the tents. Out of the 300 about 25 are injured, the wounds are slashing cuts, wounds from some battle. The rest simply sit near the tents and stare into the horizon. The wounded sit quietly as the medics work on the alien beings. The medics find no human DNA, their blood is a strange neon green. Even sticking needles into their skin seems to jerk any into a response. They do learn many interesting things, such as Ileeni being hermaphrodites, and in the few communication they are able to answer small simple questions. The one that appears to be leading stalks from tent to tent peeping in seeming to check up on his tribe. Upon the appearance of the military, the Tribal leader approaches cautiously, the box in his hand and 3 other suited figures hobbling along behind him, whispering in soft hums and barks.

[Polarisium]

OFFICIAL STATEMENT

from the Offcie of the President

of the Federal Republic of Polarisium

On the Results of the Polaris Summit

We would like to hereby officially conclude the summit which Polaris had the honor of hosting. It is with enthusiasm and confidence that we view the results of this international event. The contacts we have made during these weeks, we hope to preserve, strengthen and multiply. This summit, we believe, may indeed hope us work with our neighbors and partners all over the world for the sake of peace and prosperity.

All the treaties made during the summit will be listed below.

Nedea

1. Non-Aggression Pact
   
2. Free Trade Agreement

Moarfall

1. Free Trade Agreement

Alseheia

1. Research Agreement between University of Polaris, the Center of Technology and Science and the Eterisk Computing Station in quantum computing
2. Research Agreement between University of Sium, the Center of Technology and Science, Federal University of Arigoriska and the Federal Center of Defense in force field engineering
3. Student Exchange Programs agreement between universities of Polaris and Alseheia

Texasiva

1. Free Trade Agreement

Naval Canarch

1. Free Trade Agreement
   
2. Research Agreement between Cole University and the Freenankeyes Research Facility in developing ways of human augmentation through genetic and cybernetic means
   
3. Research Agreement between University of Tergestum and Freenankeyes Research Facility in developing armaments for orbital deployment

The template for a standard Polarean Free Trade Agreement (signed between Polarisium and all the countries above except for Nedea) can be accessed via this link:

Free Trade Agreemnet Template

All signatories who want their agreements personalized, i.e. have their leaders’ and countries’ names added, can do so by PMing me all this stuff. Texasiva and Naval Canarch will have personalized treaties posted in separate dispatches soon.

[Polarisium]

Littus Album island and Ariadna Base
Part I

The sun was rising, its rays seeping through the large windows of the command center aboard PNS Salacia and painting the usually white room warm golden. The officers didn't seem to notice though, as they went about their business without any overt reaction to the tricks of light.

A large round table dominated the room, multiple holograms displayed on its surface for the commanding officer's information, a multitude of screens were scattered around, each with a junior officer scrolling through relevant data and communicating orders to the fleet.

It came without saying that every ship obeyed the directives from the Salacia without hesitation. After all, orders from the flagship of the Admiral of the Navy weren't to be contested after they were issued. At last all ships reported and the marines confirmed their readiness.

“Very well then,” admiral Nero Stipio replied. “Let's move out in formation.”

“Aye sir! ETA to Broken Harbor 2.5 hours.”

“Aircraft carriers must prepare their planes for combat,” he ordered. “I don't expect any resistance, but it would be better if we can deliver an overwhelming response to any. All missile cruisers prepare their missiles.”

“Aye sir!” several junior officers responded at the same time, already communicating the orders to the fleet.

The sea was quiet today, with only the usual breeze causing light ripples on the almost lazy waves. The fleet moved forward, cutting the waves and crushing the tides.

***

It was all rather unexpected for local denizens of Broken Harbor. One moment the sea was clear and the fishermen were preparing their boats, and the next a massive fleet of towering ships appeared looming on the horizon. They brought the hum of restlessness to the town, one that had not been seen for a long time. Instead of merely passing by, like most military vessels usually did, the ships crept ever-closer to the town until eventually coming to a halt just shy of its harbor and releasing a swarm of boats, filled with men armed to the teeth.

The town was in stunned paralysis from the scene. It was deathly quiet for a time, until the panic erupted in full force. Noise and shouting filled the streets as people ran to their homes, locking the doors and drawing their curtains shut. Fishermen abandoned everything to get to their families, leaving half-prepared nets and boats lying on the shore. Very soon the quiet descended upon the now empty streets again. A pair of eyes could be seen cautiously peeking from behind the curtains from time to time. Fear was almost tangible and resonated from person to person, amplifying in the silence.

Only the rhythmic steps, the crushing sound of boots on stone would be heard on the streets as Polarean marines rushed into the city. Shouting would erupt every time they encountered anyone in their way. It would soon subside, with the unfortunate locals taken into custody and left in the care of armed robots that guided them in the direction of the port – a gun aimed at their back all the time.

Shooting started soon. It would explode here and there and subside as quickly as it started. Only one part of the town was different. In the eastern outskirts, home to several smuggler gangs, did someone put up some fight. It too was soon over.

Eventually the quiet settled over the city once again. The people were still not brave or foolish enough to leave their homes, what with the armed marines patrolling the streets and taking in whoever they could find.

***

“The city is ours, sir” colonel Taum, the man in charge of the marines in this operation, eventually reported. “We met almost no resistance aside from occasional smugglers, most of them were eliminated upon engaging our forces. What are you orders, sir?”

“Bring the officials, whatever there are, here and broadcast the message you will receive in a moment across the town, it's better if the locals are calm.”

“Yes, sir!” the colonel saluted. The connection was terminated shortly afterwards.

“Get me the High Command,” Nero ordered. The channel was soon open without much hassle. “This is Admiral of the Navy Nero Stipio, we have full control over Broken Harbor. The Seventh Fleet proceed here, we ill have Ariadna established shortly.”

“Very well, admiral,” Grand Admiral Ferisro replied from the other side of the screen. “I will dispatch all the appropriate orders. I trust everything went without much trouble?”

“Indeed, sir,” Nero nodded. “The operation concluded without any substantial resistance.”

“Very well,” thegrand admiral replied. “I believe it is time you transferred command over the first fleet back to admiral Lirus and returned to the High Command.”

“Yes, sir.”

***

“Attention residents of Broken Harbor. As of this moment the town is under Polarean control and is the sovereign territory of the Federal Republic of Polarisium. All residents must proceed to the town hall for registry and to receive Polrean citizenship. All those who fail to comply will be treated as illegal aliens. Family members of the following people must after registering proceed to the port detainment area to confirm the identities of their family members. Failure to comply will result in the detained persons being treated as trespassers and illegal aliens.”

[Polarisium]

Littus Minor
(Part II of Littus Album and Ariadna base)

It was high noon and the hot sun rained its light through the transparent walls of the Federal Parliament Building upon the turbulent minds and discussions below.

“It is simply unbelievable,” Reum Cassus, the leader of the socialist party, shouted, his voice easily drowned in the sea of almost tangible disapproval that resonated from almost three quarters of the parliament. “Warmongers and tyrants have somehow infiltrated our government and are now striving to cement the concept and the tradition of military expansion in the minds of both our citizens and foreign leaders. How is it possible that this body, which is supposed to represent the will of the people, is not stopping the President's blatantly militaristic policies? We are literally sending four whole fleets to occupy Littus Minor archipelago and Broken Harbor!” Reum made a pause, glaring accusingly at the representatives, who reciprocated the gesture. “Yet this chamber is silent!”

There was a chorus of “boo”s even as members of the socialist party attempted to applaud. Reum was not so easily deterred it seemed. Tiberius observed the man and had to give it to his most bitter, though hardly the most dangerous, opponent – Reum Cassus had a set of balls.

“The cost of these operations is at least 30 billion Republican Marks!” the man exclaimed. “30 billion! A cost of a top-notch hospital or a facility for the poor. How is it possible in our democracy that personal ambitions, or perhaps delusions of grandeur would be more appropriate, of a leader outrank the needs of the people?”

With that Reum left the podium as mixed reactions followed him up to the very seat he usually occupied in the hall. Socialists were ecstatic while the more conservative factions let their displeasure be known via shouting, rather loud and obnoxious shouting. The speaker finally managed to reign everyone in and it was Tiberius's turn.

“Mr. President has the floor!” the speaker exclaimed. Tiberius stood up from his seat, which was rather comfortably situated to the right from the center of the hall, and walked to the tribune.

“Well first of all, I have to point out the irony of a socialist talking traditions,” he started with a smile. It paid off as a wave of chuckles washed through the crowd of representatives. “As to the allegations of warmongering or delusions – they are simply ridiculous. No military expansion has taken place, Polarisium has merely claimed some deserted islands that belonged to no other country and a city of refugees.”

The difference between Reum and himself was at its most obvious for Tiberius at that moment. It wasn't merely their adherence to different ideologies – after all they both in the end wanted power, if possible, to help their people. One usually came together with the other in Polarisium anyway. They just had a different definitions and indeed concepts of help.

“In fact,” Tiberius came up with an idea. Making a harmless joke about socialist stereotype was one thing, but now he saw an opportunity to slight his opponent, and it simply could not be missed, “Mr Cassus's accusations could be reflected right back at him. Does he imply or indeed state outright that the security of our trade is a delusional concept?” Socialists were, rather predictably, outraged, while the conservatives and the liberals applauded. And whatever other parties thought was entirely irrelevant. The conservative-liberal coalition effectively ruled the Federal Parliament. As the shouts subsided, Tiberius continued. “Does Mr. Cassus say that national interests of this country and its security matter not and are of no consequence to the people? Well then-”

Tiberius didn't get to finish that phrase as socialists simply erupted into shouts so loud and conservatives engaged them in this childish competition that Tiberius, even with a microphone, was unheard.

“Well then,” he repeated loudly, his voice carrying over the spats and squabbles like strong wind over restless waters. The shouts gradually subsided. “As I was saying,” Tiberius continued, “if those are the ideas that the Socialist Party represents, it is no wonder they consistently lose all the elections!” he said with a smile and a chuckle, which were translated into the assembly.

“On a more serious note, the actions our Polarean Navy has taken were mandated by the needs of national security. It is stated plainly in the report submitted by the High Command, that a naval or air force base on any of those islands can effectively cut off all our eastern and south-eastern ports from international trade routes. 30 billion Marks we spent on these operations are required to secure dozens of trillions in trade and investments that would be otherwise put at serious risk. My administration will not let our people be robbed or held hostage by some warmonger. I was elected to defend our homes and I intend to do just that!”

There was applause. Just like that an event that was supposed to be a critical review of the actions taken by him, were turned into a PR event. Well, it certainly wasn't unwelcome and the elections are just four years away after all.

[Polarisium]

A Slice of Life
Or Polarean Waltz

Marcus and Junia have just moved in to one of the apartments in Polaris. The different layers of the city were confusing for some time, but they eventually got used to it. Some extra navigation was absolutely worth a cheap and spacious apartment with windows looking at a large park. It was actually where they were waling. The sun had long ago crossed the horizon and left but a glowing aftertaste at the edges of the sky.

Lanterns, floating bulbs of almost liquid light which fell softly upon the leaves of the trees nearby and the faux cobblestone of the road the pair was walking. Grass was swaying in the lazy evening breeze, which by some miracle got so deep into the urban expanse of the capital. Skyscrapers could be seen in some distance as well as the rising layers of the city with shimmering lights, like millions of flames on a million candles. A fest of life in the darkness of the night.

The park was quiet at first, but as Marcus and Junia neared the center it got louder. Very soon it was clear as to the source and the nature of those sounds. There was a square in the middle of the park. It was quite mundane, but at this moment everything was quite different. Pairs moved gracefully to the tune of waltz around the fountain which launched water playfully into the air.

“It's the Waltz of Auroras, isn't it?” Junia asked, turning to Marcus with a smile on her face.

“I think...” Marcus shrugged. Music had never been his forte, especially so after he chose to become an engineer. Junia, being a teacher of music, was the family expert on the subject. Dancing even at elementary school wasn't all that exciting for him. He had to relearn the skill for Junia and the dancing evenings she liked to partake in back in Pons Aelii.

“Marcus, Junia!” someone called them. The pair turned to their left, the source of the faintly familiar voice. It turned out to be one of their new neighbors, Arcturus with his wife Pia, both a couple of years older than Marcus and Junia. Their faces had a pink tint – they must have been dancing recently.

“Hello there, Marcus, Junia! I am so sorry, it entirely slipped my mind to mention that we hold these dance evenings every week,” Pia said as the pair approached.

“They are held here too?” Junia asked.

“Of course,” Arcturus replied with a chuckle. “They like dancing outside of Pons Aelii too. By the way, why don't you join? The new one is about to begin.”

Marcus and Junia exchanged a glance and smiled.

“Why not indeed?” Marcus replied as he took Junia's hand and guided her in the direction of the dancing pairs. Arcturus and Pia fell behind them.

The tune started slow and measured, with flutes and strings dictating the rhythm. It slowly escalated as the bells were added into the mix. Everything blended together in a mixture of glowing magnificence for Marcus and Junia as they spinned in the breathtaking embrace of the waltz. The music swelled abruptly as the strings took the lead and carried everyone faster than time across the limited space of the square which for the moment seemed boundless.

It eventually came to an end as the pairs slowed down and partners bowed to each other. The music died down entirely and the crowd of smiling people dispersed in every direction. Only Marcus and Junia together with Arcturus and Pia remained.

“It's quite late,” Pia said. “Why don't you come in a week. The dancing evening starts at 7 pm. You seemed to enjoy this one.”

“We certainly will,” Junia nodded, still smiling after the waltz.

“Of course,” Marcus agreed, smiling as well.

“Splendid!” Arcuturus cheered. “Let's go back, it's indeed getting very late.”

[Ileeni]

*Well nobody will read this but...*

UPDATE

Ileeni Land Colony, refugees are being contained in a specially built pressurized building. The ITA. Ileeni Tribal Affairs Council will determine the future of the 320 Abyssal dwelling sea creatures. Several anti Ileeni movements have been protesting the action declaring them as " dangerous " and " savage." Not a far truth, but the building is under protection. Studies of Ileeni communication, culture and lifestyle are being developed to further understand how and why these creatures, far from human interact with one another.

*Middle of the ocean*

Ileeni spotted near the coast, boat attacked. A boat was attacked and destroyed shortly after sending out a distress signal. the reason for the attack is still unknown.