DocTomoe
Well-Known Member
Hici’emi System - Hici’emi II UMC Manufacturing Plant - Clean Room Complex
Beneath the surface of the sand, dust, and grit of the planet Hici’emi II were two things, more rock, and a complex of buildings devoted to the development of industry, the latter being the point of interest.
Some time ago, a message was sent out to several universal powers that there would be a meeting held at this location as per the request of the Lorath royalty, and so the time came and the individuals invited would make their appearance hopefully.
The first arrivals, the Lorath royals, sat patiently side-by-side at a large round conference table which had been brought into one of the stark-white clean rooms devoted usually to sterile technology testing conditions now, the room served as a place where their honored guests, the Freespacers, would be able to meet with no distractions caused by the simple presence of dirt or bacteria. The air smelled terribly clean, like a hospital, mostly due to the airborne anti-pathogen nanomachines which were present. At the airlock-entry were boxes labeled for each group invited, each box held a number of ‘party favors’. Anti-radiation nanomachine injectors, face masks for those which suspected they may harbor some form of illness, and gloves. The Freespacer’s box however simply held a pair of gloves and a small device with a brilliant yellow label on it indicating the presence of a confined radiation field. Quite a party favor indeed.
“They should be here soon sister.” The High Priest spoke as he looked to the Lorath queen sat beside him, referred to as the Xiaah. “Remember the topics, if they sway, we need to get them back on track before this degrades to a squabble or rant.”
"Without the cats, I can not see this happening..." Destiny shrugged a little and smiled, looking to her brother. On her forehead there was no make-up or anything to hide the stitches which had begun to slowly be absorbed into her skin.
The Jiyuuian Prime Minister arrived looking quite pale and wearing a navy colored pants suit. She felt very ill but had refused to take the chance to sit this conference out for her health, she was determined to see something good come out of this new conference. Ayana looked around the airlock nervously, just relieved to not have to be in a Tenshi this time around.
“Thats true, they’re the ones who make the process difficult.” Tomoe gave a soft smile before he shifted his gaze to the airlock entry way. “Prime Minister... I’m impressed that you were able to attend...” At a glance, the High Priest could tell she was not well, he stood from his seat to greet her, choosing to simply bow rather than extend his hand.
Destiny did the same, standing now as she gave the woman a bow. "We are glad you could make it Prime Minister. It is nice to see you again. Are you feeling ok?"
Ayana bowed in return to the Lorath and offered them a soft smile. "I am well enough, change is something I have come to accept as an unshakable part of my life. This is just another one I've come across that I have to see through to the end," she replied cryptically.
“Change?” The High Priest quirked his brow, wishing he would have extended his hand then just so he could be nosy, but he knew better. “No matter, so long as you feel you’re well enough Prime Minister, then everything should go fine.”
Ayana nodded again, "Indeed, change. But I should be up for this, though I might excuse myself every now and then," she replied softly as she approached them.
Destiny thought on it a moment, before she gave the Prime Minister a quicker look over. With a knowing smile now she gave the Prime Minister a warm smile and a mouthed congratulations. "Well, go ahead and have a seat. We will certainly understand." Destiny rested a hand on her brother's arm, a quick message sent to him now.
Tomoe kept a rather neutral expression as he was informed, he didn't miss a beat however. “Well Prime Minister, would you like to sit beside the Xiaah? It would only be fitting since we’re allies.” The High Priest offered.
"That's fine with me," Ayana replied with a nod to Destiny as she walked over to them. "Have the others arrived yet?" She asked curiously as she appraised the room, the sterility of the environment made her slightly nervous but she understood the reasoning behind why it had to be that way.
"Oh, here we are." Castellan paused for a moment after exiting the airlock and took a quick glance around the room. Upon spotting the others she gave them a bright smile, and pushed up her half-rim glasses. "Ah, yes, I recognize you from the personnel files. You're the Theocrat Xiaah, correct? So I suppose that makes the other one the Republican from the UOC. But where are my protocols? I'm Castellan Six Five. Acting proxy on behalf of my node mates at the Free State. Greets, comrades."
“Speaking of them...” The High Priest replied to Ayana as he saw the airlock open. “Greetings Castellan.” He stood up and greeted her with a small bow as well. He would let his sister continue on with greetings since she was the one addressed.
One of the last to arrive was a pair to be precise. Yuriko did a last minute check of Rose's attire, and smoothed an invisible wrinkle, and looked the ARIA over. She herself was dressed formally in casual dress attire in a soft, but vibrant sky blue to contrast with her violet hair, and eyes. With a final look, she then waved Rose along, and soon entered the room, wearing a polite smile upon her lips.
"Greetings Castellan Six Five, a pleasure to finally meet you. How have your...Comrades? faired?" The word Comrade was pronounced a little off as it was a fairly new word to Destiny. She smiled and bowed a little to the Free Spacer, not just sure how to greet them.
Ayana turned and bowed politely to the Free spacer in greeting. She noticed the arrival of one of her more celebrated Peace keepers with a bright smile. She had never actually meet the woman, but she had heard many great things about her.
While Destiny handled the Free spacer, Tomoe looked to the pair which entered and gave a friendly smile. “Welcome Yuriko, Rose. Castellan here is representing her nodemates in the Free state, Castellan, meet Yuriko, who represents the United Manufacturing Cooperation and her own sub-company.”
The ARIA, Rose, made her entrance at Yuriko’s side. She seemed rather uncertain of the whole affair, but it was Yuriko’s wish that she would attend, so she did, even though it meant her being separated from the ship which she was fond of. “Greetings, I am an ARIA Synthetic Intelligence unit dubbed Rose.” she bowed softly.
"Oh, fairly well I'd think, given the circumstances. Fortunately, they killed only people -- not our ideas." Castellan smiled at Destiny without a hint of sarcasm in her demeanor. "So long as the free flow of information perseveres, so too shall we."
"Good, It is the ideas that a culture flourishes or dies on. I hope though that in time, your people will catch up to your ideals so you can once again flourish." Destiny nodded a little and smiled. "Please, have a seat."
Tio quietly watched the proceeding from a monitor room in his palace, he could hear what was said, yet really was not interested, the cameras focused on only one of the participants -Ayana.
Yuriko reassured the ARIA by holding her hand, and patting it, wearing a small smile as she stepped into the room leading Rose. "Prime Minister, it is a pleasure to finally meet you in person." She said politely, in truth, all she'd ever seen of the woman was from news on the volumetric displays.
A middle-aged Nepleslian man of tanned, aquiline features and a generally laid back expression arrived at the room. He was dressed in a sharp stripy grey and black suit with a matching tie, which seemed to denote he was either a professional by trade, or thought very much of himself and liked to dress accordingly. "Evening. You'll have to forgive me if it isn't though, I seem to have come down with a case of space lag." He nodded politely. "Senator Haytham Quezzil. It's a pleasure to participate in these proceedings in his stead."
Ayana continued to smile at Yuriko and Rose as they approached. "And mine to finally meet you as well, Commodore Shichou. You're quite the busy woman," she replied politely.
“Ah, Senator.” Tomoe nodded to the Senator in greetings. “I understand that your superior’s transport was delayed... I hope he will arrive soon, until then, I am quite sure you can manage to serve in his place.”
“It seems, all that were invited are now here.” The High Priest stated in observation. “If you would please take your seats we can begin addressing the topics which were indicated in the invitation process.”
Destiny simply let her brother do the talking for a bit and waited until all the others were seated before she took her own.
Castellan gave the new arrival a small wave. "Ah, Nepleslians. They make the highs even higher, and the lows more frequent," she said to no one in particular as she took a seat.
Yuriko simply nodded politely to the Nepleslian before steering Rose towards a pair of seats at the table. She herself sat down, and entwined her fingers together as she waited quietly.
"Aha! Vanderhuge was right when he said you folks had great senses of humor." Haytham replied Castellan, taking his seat. As a former businessman, it was probably for the best that he had been sent to a meeting that seemed to be about 'trade'.
Ayana bowed to the Nepleslian Senator with a polite smile as she took her seat and waited patiently for the conference to begin.
“As indicated in the invitation, the primary purpose of this meeting is to discuss the situation of the Free state As friends to them as per our peace and trade agreements, we the Lorath Matriarchy, feel it is our duty as friends to offer what aid we can. Along with our obligation on paper, we feel a responsibility to help a people which have gone through a disaster much like what was inflicted upon our own people, by the same source.” The High Priest spoke as he tapped at a panel on the table. A volumetric image came up in the middle of the table indicating sensor data retrieved from the independent ship ‘Maras’, which was present at the Great Lighthouse incident.
Ayana looked at the sensor data blankly, uncertain of what point exactly Tomoe was trying to make.
"I was wondering if someone was going to take the initiative to offer some aid after the cats had their way with those folks." Haytham nodded, retrieving his data pad from inside of his suit jacket. "So what did you have in mind?"
“Due to the incident, as we well know, our friends have been displaced from the only place they could possibly refer to as a ‘home’. Along with this, there were numerous organic life form deaths, and far more prisoners taken. The disruption upon their society was massive...” When the Nepleslian spoke, The Lorath High Priest smiled. “Mmm, you caught on quick. I have in mind massive economic aid, medical supplies, analysis of the population issue, and maybe supplying industrial and military assets as needed.”
Yuriko arched an eyebrow at the High Priest, as if saying 'So that's why I am here.' to him before smiling a little at the proposal.
"Well, who doesn't like free stuff?" Castellan piped in happily, then hesitated for a moment. With a more serious tone she quickly added, "Ahem, what I mean to say is we would graciously appreciate any aid and support that can be offered in this time of need."
Destiny chuckled a little at the eagerness of the Free Spacer. It was cute in a way as she nodded. "Of course, free things are always a welcomed thing I'm sure in any race."
“Mmm... there is more to the situation than merely ‘free stuff’. We also are wishing to offer assets which are of a sensitive technological nature, and due to the nature of the assets, we would ask that the Free State, or at least the nodes wishing to use the assets, agree to an affiliation with the United Manufacturing Cooperative for security reasons.” With the High Priest words, a volumetric display appeared before the Free spacer representative. The display indicated information on the United Manufacturing Cooperative, its purpose, and its rather loose affiliation policy.
“Of course... the contributive rules will be waved, due to the situation of the Free State at this time. However, all of the benefits remain intact.” The Lorath High Priest quickly added in.
Ayana seemed intrigued by this "sensitive technological nature" business but did not feel the need to comment on it at this point. She thought over what the Colonies could provide in humanitarian aide to the Free Spacers but she wasn't really sure how distribution of such aide would work. "I have a question, Castellan how could we provide aide to the other... nodes... if you are mostly nomadic? Would there be a good way of distributing supplies?"
"Oh, we can manage all that internal jazz." Castellan said dismissively. "Our State's sentient econometrics program does a quite good job managing logistics and distribution patterns. So long as the goods are shipped to a Ley Line node, we can take care of most of the rest." She paused for a moment. "And, frankly, not many nodes are eager to share their whereabouts with others given what happened the last time. It's best just to leave dissemination to us."
Interesting. So, is this a well-timed bribe, or a gift to smooth a deal over? Haytham pondered to himself, as he quirked an eyebrow. He wasn't exactly a stranger to certain business methodologies, especially when they involved getting an expedient result, but he'd have to learn more about the Lorath's social conventions before making any hasty assumptions. "You've got Port Hope, miss Castellan." He said, remembering hearing about a large gathering of ships not too far away from his district.
“Mmm... if you desire, we could handle the transport of the goods utilizing our own assets instead of hiring a third party if that makes you feel more comfortable about revealing a ley line location.” The High Priest offered before the senator spoke. “Yes of course, we could also ship to a location which you still have assets at, such as Null and Void, or Port Hope which the Senator was good enough to mention.”
Ayana nodded her understanding. "Understandable, so long as we know where we can send the goods to be distributed, we'll see what we can do, once I discuss the matter with the other members of the Assembly," she added softly.
Destiny simply nodded to the ideas set forth by both her brother and the Prime Minister. Seemed things were going smoothly so far.
Yuriko meanwhile simply looked to Rose briefly, and then brought up the United Manufacturing Cooperative's assets. She quietly went over all of this in her mind as she continued to sit there looking attentive.
“So, Castellan, would you feel comfortable with a loose affiliation? Do not worry, even if you choose not to affiliate, we will still give your people aid, it will simply just not include some of our sensitive technologies.” The High Priest explained as he prepared to move onto the next topic after the reply from the representative.
Ayana started looking a little green around the gills, so to speak. She quickly stood up, "Excuse me," she said quickly as she excused herself from the room and the table.
"One thing I will surely not miss..." Destiny said aloud as she watched Ayana exit the room quickly.
The High Priest gave a soft chuckle at his sister’s comment as he waited on the Freespacer’s reply.
"Hmm, yes, Port Hope should suffice for now." Castellan gave the High Priest a slight frown. "I regret, however, we can't really promise any binding to the UMC, nor the enforcement of them should any nodes agree. The fact a profit-driven organization is trying to impress upon us a binding contract during our darkest hour seems to allude to...exploitation? Maybe nothing so sinister, but it's still cause for suspicious and requires further analysis."
“As I said, we ask no contribution. Its merely a formality to permit us to share some of our technology which will help you back on your feet, and make assets available to you for use. But, I will gladly keep the offer open for later... This moves us onto the next topic of our discussion...” The High Priest went on.
"Hrm... the Prime Minister has been away for a while..." The High priest observed as he spoke to his sister, Yuriko, and Yuriko's companion. "One of you ladies care to check on her?"
Destiny looked to Yuriko, waiting to see if she would act first, or if Destiny herself would go check on her. She didn't mind either way. "Miss Yuriko? If not, I will go instead. My brother can speak on my behalf and you are your only representative."
"If you would not mind Xiaah?" Yuriko asked politely.
"I shall return then." Destiny nods a little and stands, giving the group a small bow before exiting the room in a quick manner, hoping the Prime Minister was ok.
"Well, until my sister returns... we shall continue as much as we can. The issue of trade is next." Tomoe prompted as he looked to the Free State and
Nepleslian representatives. "Since we have an agreement in place, I would like to take this opportunity to confirm and renew our agreement with the Nepleslian Imperium and the Free State to continue our exchange of goods. I'd also like to try to negotiate an arrangement for the potential exchange of United Manufacturing Cooperative goods, and Nepleslian Arms and Munitions goods."
Yuriko nodded slightly. "I have no issues with this, provided some of our proprietary technologies remain within our strict control."
"Of course, there is that topic. Technologies such as some of our armor technologies and power sources will have to be kept under lock and key, however, we would like to trade in some of our less-than-classified goods." Tomoe elaborated.
"Of course, of course, I believe some of our medical technologies and goods could be made available. As well as other assorted materials." Yuriko replied in turn with a small nod of her head.
Castellan propped up her left arm and rested her chin in her hand. "Just give me a list of the items, prices, and estimated shipping times to the depot. We'll let the econometrics programmes run through all that jazz. I can't say I have much of a head for number crunching myself, my AI notwithstanding."
Haytham cleared his throat. "An agreement for the trade of certain goods would be perfectly acceptable, but as for NAM... we do not specifically sell our products, save for certain essential products which are often subcontracted to civilian agencies for distribution under our regulation. Firearms, medicines and cybernetics should be easy to get a hold of once your borders are open again."
Destiny came in after a bit and took her place at the table again. She waited for the others to finish before she spoke.
"So, that is a confirmation from our friends in the Free State... I'm glad we can continue to exchange goods and services." Tomoe then paused as he listened to Haytham's response. "Mmm, would it be possible to subcontract the production of certain goods to the UMC for distribution within the borders of the UOC? I assure you that NAM will receive a majority of the profit."
Yuriko coughed delicately. "The Harbor Master has made me privy to the fact Nepleslian trade vessels are free to enter and exit the UOC." She pointed out.
"Sister, how is the Prime Minister?" Tomoe asked as he looked to Destiny with an inquisitive expression.
Destiny shook her head a little. "Unfortunately, the Prime Minister is to sick to continue. I've had her taken to our medical wing to be watched after, and she was asked that the Crowned Prince continue for this."
"I assume she has contacted him?" Tomoe asked in follow-up as he stood up from the table to go to a nearby closet to retrieve a volumetric projector.
Haytham expression hardened a little bit, but remained largely at ease at Tomoe's question. "Nepleslia will export freely, but it is not within our economic policy to subcontract production outside of our country."
"Yes, I aided her, but yes." Destiny nodded a little to her brother before looking to the Nepleslian.
"Yes, yes. We know." Castellan waved her hand dismissively at Haytham. "You're both looking out for your respective manufacturing cartels. It's such a shame you two organizations won't get with the times and adopt proper industrial automation; infinite, expendable labor simply can't be competed with."
"That sounds acceptable." Tomoe replied as he ducked under the table and went about plugging in the volumetric projector... Within a few minutes the projector was active and it merely awaited the signal from the UOC's Prince so it would activate and project him. Tomoe made his way back to his seat where he waited a moment to allow the Free State and Nepleslia representatives to speak.
Tomoe looked at the projector patiently before he released a sigh. "When the Prince's communication line is opened, we can move onto our next subject which requires his attention."
Tio's image appeared, a slight grin on his face as he addressed those gathered at the conference. "I apologize for not being able to come in person. Either way the United Outer Colonies are happy to continue being apart of these discussions." The crowned Prince fell quiet, he awaited their comments on his greeting.
"We are gracious you could step in on such short notice Prince. Do not worry for the Prime Minister, she is being watched over by our medical personnel." Destiny bowed her head slightly and smiled to the Prince, simply watching his expression.
Tio gave a slight nod in response to Destiny. "Thank you your highness."
"Welcome crowned Prince Tio, I am glad that you are able to join us. We were waiting on some important matters until you could be reached. We have plenty to speak of, and I am quite sure you would like to be able to give feed back." The Lorath High Priest said welcoming the Prince. "So, onward to our next topic... Trade route defense."
Tio quietly rerouted the feed to one of the Tange Ops Centers so that the meeting could be observed more closely.
Castellan briefly touched her ear piece for a moment, and quickly sat up straight. "Oh, good news. Here they are." She smiled, sweetly. "I hope you won't mind; we invited one more. Since you're not elitist swine like the Yammies, I assume it wouldn't be a problem."
"Well, since we have all agreed on trading with one another... I think it is a wise choice to speak on the matter of defending the ships which will be conducting said trade. At this time, we have a---" The High Priest paused when Castellan spoke, he raised his brow before asking a simple question. "Who?"
Yuriko covered her mouth and coughed to cover up a chuckle at Castellan's choice of words before quirking an eyebrow quizzically.
Destiny narrowed her eyes a little at Castellan as she heard the news, resisting the urge to roll her eyes before she nodded. "It would be rude to refuse when they are on our doorstep.
"Well... you can be cheap about it and solve a safety problem the Nepleslian way. Give everyone more guns, so they're all equally prepared to get into fights." Haytham piped in, fiddling with his data pad He perked an eyebrow at Castellan's words, but continued. "But that would be poor economic policy."
Tio raised a brow, he kept quiet as usual.
A message sounded from the communication system built into the room. A rather generic automated voice spoke up. "A Motoyoshi Fleetyard-Novacorp representative and an Elysian representative are requesting admittance."
The announcement quirked the High Priest's brow before he gave a look to his sister. "We don't want to be rude, do we?"
"Why, the Elysians, of course. Our sociological projections indicate that, due to their turbulent past with Yamatai, there would likely be a fair number among their ruling class who harbor hostile feelings towards our common adversary. Since you're not elitist pigs," she said with added emphasis, "I thought the more, the merrier!"
Destiny shook her head, mentally giving a command to the security detail to meet and escort the representatives to the room.
Tio offered quietly "I have no problems with the addition of these delegates."
Tomoe also accompanied Destiny's permission for them to be admitted by sending a message to the workers outside of the cleanroom-turned-conference-room that there should be a welcoming package set out for the representatives. Gloves, face masks for anyone who may be ill, and data pads detailing the conference details.
Yuriko scratched her chin at that. She'd heard plenty of the 'Old Wars' from Koharu. "That they do, I've heard many things in regards to past wars between the Elysians, and Yamataians. Right back to the times of the Heavenly Wars." She said as she sat there tapping her fingers on the table.
Andariel always felt somewhat uncomfortable on board a Thantros. The S19 was a brutally efficient crewman, but they made her uncomfortable, very uncomfortable. However, as she found herself surrounded by them she had to deal with it. Well, anyway. A transmission was necessary so she made one! "This is Second Legate of the Elysian Senate Andariel Vokos speaking. I would like to request permission to land, by shuttle."
"Permission granted. Please follow our directions to the nearest clear landing area." Came a female voice, the feed audio only.
"Our additional guests shall be joining us soon... so until then... Castellan I am interested in your description of Yamatai, could you tell us more?" Tomoe asked as he sat back in his seat, patiently awaiting the incoming guests.
"Well Miss Castellan, we sure as hell aren't elitist pigs. Elysians..." Haytham said to the Freespacer as he scratched his head. "... I'm a little surprised they'd show. We're neighbors for two years and we don't even get as much as a bitter hello. But you've got moxie kid, and I like it."
Fleet Admiral Tomori had come ahead of the Elysian and stood at the entrance of the room, in front of the security detail. She promptly went through the security checks, and the doors to the room opened, Rina was wearing a black suit, her silver and gold hair done in its usual bob cut, her blue eyes rather alert to her surroundings as she looked at the arrayed people. "High Priest, I'm here to represent the MFY-Novacorp assets." She said, and gave a curt nod.
"Acknowledged. I will await further directions." Andariel made for the prepared Velcior shuttle, and dispatched from the Thantros. She briefly considered the originally planned contingent of bodyguards. And she promptly decided against it, dispatching on her own, a minor break in protocol that she deemed necessary for her personal comfort. And she followed directions as they came, for landing.
Tio sat quietly and listened absorbing all the information being discussed. Awaiting for the true issues of matter to come up to comment. His mind absent, more concerned about the condition of Ayana.
"We've got no lack of moxie or courage in the State," Castellan beamed, "and you Neps aren't too far behind either...though I'm actually curious as to how much of it is natural since Nepleslian per-capita alcohol consumption is unprecedented."
"Greetings Admiral. I am glad that you have been able to make an appearance... Even if it is unexpected." The High Priest stood up before stepping to a nearby closet... He pulled out a pair of chairs and brought them to the table. "You and another guest are arriving at the same time, so it is only easier to set out both seats."
A group of Fyunnen awaited at the landing pad with a small package in hand. As the ship landed, they would of course run the normal precautionary checks on the Elysian, before ushering her to the conference room.
Rina nodded, un-perturbed by the remark as she took the offered seat.
A mere few minutes would go by before the Elysian representative would be escorted to the hatchway which lead into the conference room, the Fyunnen escort stepped aside to allow the Elysian to enter and announce themselves.
Andariel, upon going through the inspection and being escorted to the conference room, took a bare second to observe the others there present, then offered the requisite announcement. "I greet you. I am Andariel Vokos, Second Legate to the Elysian Senate, and Elysia is honored by the invitation extended to us." She moved to take a seat after that, pulling away her soh'k'tohs before sitting and letting it fall to a rest in her lap.
"It's why we've gotten along fine so far, toots. Anyone that can hold their liquor, hates the cats and likes machines are always welcome." Haytham replied, this time smiling quite mischievously. Despite his experience as a gambler and businessman, he still had a terribly expressive face. He glanced up and tipped his hat to the Elysian. "Nice to have you here, Miss Second Legate."
"A pleasure. Welcome to our meeting, I hope the trip was pleasant?" Destiny asked, keeping her tone and actions civil. Internally she was a little ticked, but this was less meetings she had to deal with now.
The High Priest gave a nod of his head to the Legate. "Greetings Legate, I am the Lorath High Priest, Tomoe. I welcome you to our conference, and I am glad our Free State friends had the whim to invite your people to this gathering."
"Then maybe one day we three need to go and toss a few back." Yuriko suggested to Haytham and Castellan as the Elysian seated herself. When the female introduced herself, Yuriko inclined her head. "It is a pleasure to have the Elysians amongst us in these proceedings."
"It wasn't a whim," Castellan glanced at Tomoe,"It was very well thought-out, you know. We just think very quickly. You'd understand if your head was crammed full of wires, too."
Destiny chuckled a little at Castellan's words, thinking to some of the older Occhestans.
"But it is." The High Priest replied with a chuckle to Castellan's comment. "A calculated and processed conclusion made at a query concluding with a majority opinion to carry out the behavior at that time seems like a whim to me... Who knows what the query could have resulted in if asked again?"
"I thought it called a cooperative, not a majority rule." Castellan waved her hand dismissively. "Plus, you should be happy with more nations. That means a larger market share."
"If I may, I do not see the relevance to this discussion." Andariel offered up a silvery smile. "As pleasing as small talk can be, I was of the impression that there was more purpose to this meeting than debating what qualifies as whimsy." Andariel found Castellan immediately far more likable than she had expected. Though what she knew about the Free State disturbed her somewhat, this representative was interesting.
"Absolutely true Castellan... and also true Legate." The High Priest quirked his brow at the no-nonsense attitude of the Elysian. "Since we have two guests which have arrived late, I suggest we backtrack to accommodate them... Our previous topics consisted of trade agreements The Free State and Nepleslian Imperium have agreed to establish trade routes with the United Outer Colonies and the United Manufacturing Cooperative. At this time, I would like to offer the same to Elysia... along with a friendship pact establishing that there is no ill will to be had between us. A matter of formality, I'm sure you understand."
Rina entwined her fingers together, and rested her chin upon them. "I would be more then willing to open our borders to such trade with our friends." She said quite kindly.
"At present any race may petition me for entrance into UOC space, I am however very very wary of any YSE vessels close to my border." Rina added with a slight narrowing of the eyes.
"I can assure you, all of you, that Elysia has no interest in aggression or ill will. Friendship between all of our nations is of tantamount importance." Andariel did not explicitly agree to a pact to that affect, perhaps notably. "As for trade routes... Elysia is open to the idea of trade with the U.O.C. and with Nepleslia, however, we have little need to import, and little of interest to export."
Destiny smiled a little, but otherwise simply sits back and watches the going ons of the conference. It was most likely the first time since the peace summit thing that ended horridly that this many foreign countries had gotten together.
The Lorath High Priest readied a data pad and slid it over to the Legate. "Could you please formalize that friendship? I'm sorry, but formalities. You can also agree to a trade pact, which of course sets no obligations for volume of participation."
"Well, I would think Elysia would be open to some cultural oddities, knick knacks, and so on to trade, perhaps even resources, ideas, and so on. We never not know if there is something to trade or not until we put our cards on the table after all." Yuriko said as she sat there looking pleased at the proceedings thus far. "Besides, I have been quite curious on some of Elysia's beverages, foods, clothing and so on."
"It would come down to what Elysian entrepreneurs are willing and allowed to export and import. I imagine that you'll want to restrict what comes in and comes out of your country." Haytham shrugged, tapping his data pad with a pen. "I never really got to deal with any of you people, but I remember hearing about cultural and economic protectionism. Probably why I never got around to it until I became a politician." He said quite blankly, keeping his gaze on the Second Legate until she replied.
"It must be finalized by our Senate, of course, but I will agree to your terms of friendship and give my full support to them with the Senate." Andariel paused there. "While I appreciate your interest in our culture, much of it is quite sacred to us. We would be most uncomfortable marketing our clothing, save perhaps for the simplest of articles. I can bring up the possibility with our Senate, but that I can assure no outcome on."
The Lorath High Priest frowned visibly "If you're unwilling to sign a friendship pact, then I'm unsure of feeling easy about you sitting in on the upcoming sensitive discussions between those gathered here... Could you contact your senate?"
Andariel mused for a moment. "I would like to know precisely what the friendship pact entails before I take it upon myself. If I am to sign something, I would like very much to know the details of your proposal." She cleared her throat. "Friendship Pact is, after all, a rather vague term."
"Just as what was agreed between the Free State and Nepleslia prior to this conference. It is merely a pact stating that our ships won't consider your ships hostile, and vice versa. It also establishes that we will not take undue measures against one another's citizens and assets. It essentially means that we won't look to hurt you, and you won't look to hurt us."
Andariel nodded once, brushing her fingers over her lips, then smiled again. "If that is the term of your pact, I can and will sign it on behalf of the Senate. There is nothing there that we do not already observe. If that will allow us to proceed in this conference, then let it be done."
"Thank you, just press your thumb or whatever digit you favor against the plate on the data pad and that will be accepted as your signature." The High Priest explained.
Destiny let out a soft sigh of relief as she heard everything go smoothly. She hated politics, needing get this approved and that approved. She was so glad that her race just followed her and her brother.
Andariel signed with her thumb as directed, then folded her hands on her lap. "Can we move on now, then? I can promise for a pact of nonaggression, I can not offer the same promise as it applies to trade. As I have said, there is little Elysia would be willing to export that others may be interested in."
"Well, we shall see at a later data in individual communications... Now we shall move onto the topic of trade route defense." The Lorath High Priest spoke as he looked upon the group which seemed to stretch at the seams.
"Mmm, to plan a proper defense of the exchange of goods between our groups is a small logistical issue. The primary problem is the Yamataian Empire which sits directly between us, and the potential possibility of third-party raiders along the way." The High Priest commented as he summoned up a map of the charted portion of space upon the table. Tiny dots of light hovered in an inky blackness, some were bare, others were marked with names and flags. Between them were lines, markers, and little dots indicating ship movements.
"I am rather wary...pirates have taken advantage of the aftermath of the YSE/SMX war, and have been roaming the space lines so to speak. We just had to clear out a fleet about four days ago that had been preying on our freighters." Yuriko pointed out, and then tapped the table idly with her fingers. "I have however been trying to alleviate these issues, from my main posting as a Commodore, and as a chairperson of the UMC."
"Commodore, what is your assessment of the strength of the pirate space forces?" Tomoe asked as he looked to Yuriko.
Beneath the surface of the sand, dust, and grit of the planet Hici’emi II were two things, more rock, and a complex of buildings devoted to the development of industry, the latter being the point of interest.
Some time ago, a message was sent out to several universal powers that there would be a meeting held at this location as per the request of the Lorath royalty, and so the time came and the individuals invited would make their appearance hopefully.
The first arrivals, the Lorath royals, sat patiently side-by-side at a large round conference table which had been brought into one of the stark-white clean rooms devoted usually to sterile technology testing conditions now, the room served as a place where their honored guests, the Freespacers, would be able to meet with no distractions caused by the simple presence of dirt or bacteria. The air smelled terribly clean, like a hospital, mostly due to the airborne anti-pathogen nanomachines which were present. At the airlock-entry were boxes labeled for each group invited, each box held a number of ‘party favors’. Anti-radiation nanomachine injectors, face masks for those which suspected they may harbor some form of illness, and gloves. The Freespacer’s box however simply held a pair of gloves and a small device with a brilliant yellow label on it indicating the presence of a confined radiation field. Quite a party favor indeed.
“They should be here soon sister.” The High Priest spoke as he looked to the Lorath queen sat beside him, referred to as the Xiaah. “Remember the topics, if they sway, we need to get them back on track before this degrades to a squabble or rant.”
"Without the cats, I can not see this happening..." Destiny shrugged a little and smiled, looking to her brother. On her forehead there was no make-up or anything to hide the stitches which had begun to slowly be absorbed into her skin.
The Jiyuuian Prime Minister arrived looking quite pale and wearing a navy colored pants suit. She felt very ill but had refused to take the chance to sit this conference out for her health, she was determined to see something good come out of this new conference. Ayana looked around the airlock nervously, just relieved to not have to be in a Tenshi this time around.
“Thats true, they’re the ones who make the process difficult.” Tomoe gave a soft smile before he shifted his gaze to the airlock entry way. “Prime Minister... I’m impressed that you were able to attend...” At a glance, the High Priest could tell she was not well, he stood from his seat to greet her, choosing to simply bow rather than extend his hand.
Destiny did the same, standing now as she gave the woman a bow. "We are glad you could make it Prime Minister. It is nice to see you again. Are you feeling ok?"
Ayana bowed in return to the Lorath and offered them a soft smile. "I am well enough, change is something I have come to accept as an unshakable part of my life. This is just another one I've come across that I have to see through to the end," she replied cryptically.
“Change?” The High Priest quirked his brow, wishing he would have extended his hand then just so he could be nosy, but he knew better. “No matter, so long as you feel you’re well enough Prime Minister, then everything should go fine.”
Ayana nodded again, "Indeed, change. But I should be up for this, though I might excuse myself every now and then," she replied softly as she approached them.
Destiny thought on it a moment, before she gave the Prime Minister a quicker look over. With a knowing smile now she gave the Prime Minister a warm smile and a mouthed congratulations. "Well, go ahead and have a seat. We will certainly understand." Destiny rested a hand on her brother's arm, a quick message sent to him now.
Tomoe kept a rather neutral expression as he was informed, he didn't miss a beat however. “Well Prime Minister, would you like to sit beside the Xiaah? It would only be fitting since we’re allies.” The High Priest offered.
"That's fine with me," Ayana replied with a nod to Destiny as she walked over to them. "Have the others arrived yet?" She asked curiously as she appraised the room, the sterility of the environment made her slightly nervous but she understood the reasoning behind why it had to be that way.
"Oh, here we are." Castellan paused for a moment after exiting the airlock and took a quick glance around the room. Upon spotting the others she gave them a bright smile, and pushed up her half-rim glasses. "Ah, yes, I recognize you from the personnel files. You're the Theocrat Xiaah, correct? So I suppose that makes the other one the Republican from the UOC. But where are my protocols? I'm Castellan Six Five. Acting proxy on behalf of my node mates at the Free State. Greets, comrades."
“Speaking of them...” The High Priest replied to Ayana as he saw the airlock open. “Greetings Castellan.” He stood up and greeted her with a small bow as well. He would let his sister continue on with greetings since she was the one addressed.
One of the last to arrive was a pair to be precise. Yuriko did a last minute check of Rose's attire, and smoothed an invisible wrinkle, and looked the ARIA over. She herself was dressed formally in casual dress attire in a soft, but vibrant sky blue to contrast with her violet hair, and eyes. With a final look, she then waved Rose along, and soon entered the room, wearing a polite smile upon her lips.
"Greetings Castellan Six Five, a pleasure to finally meet you. How have your...Comrades? faired?" The word Comrade was pronounced a little off as it was a fairly new word to Destiny. She smiled and bowed a little to the Free Spacer, not just sure how to greet them.
Ayana turned and bowed politely to the Free spacer in greeting. She noticed the arrival of one of her more celebrated Peace keepers with a bright smile. She had never actually meet the woman, but she had heard many great things about her.
While Destiny handled the Free spacer, Tomoe looked to the pair which entered and gave a friendly smile. “Welcome Yuriko, Rose. Castellan here is representing her nodemates in the Free state, Castellan, meet Yuriko, who represents the United Manufacturing Cooperation and her own sub-company.”
The ARIA, Rose, made her entrance at Yuriko’s side. She seemed rather uncertain of the whole affair, but it was Yuriko’s wish that she would attend, so she did, even though it meant her being separated from the ship which she was fond of. “Greetings, I am an ARIA Synthetic Intelligence unit dubbed Rose.” she bowed softly.
"Oh, fairly well I'd think, given the circumstances. Fortunately, they killed only people -- not our ideas." Castellan smiled at Destiny without a hint of sarcasm in her demeanor. "So long as the free flow of information perseveres, so too shall we."
"Good, It is the ideas that a culture flourishes or dies on. I hope though that in time, your people will catch up to your ideals so you can once again flourish." Destiny nodded a little and smiled. "Please, have a seat."
Tio quietly watched the proceeding from a monitor room in his palace, he could hear what was said, yet really was not interested, the cameras focused on only one of the participants -Ayana.
Yuriko reassured the ARIA by holding her hand, and patting it, wearing a small smile as she stepped into the room leading Rose. "Prime Minister, it is a pleasure to finally meet you in person." She said politely, in truth, all she'd ever seen of the woman was from news on the volumetric displays.
A middle-aged Nepleslian man of tanned, aquiline features and a generally laid back expression arrived at the room. He was dressed in a sharp stripy grey and black suit with a matching tie, which seemed to denote he was either a professional by trade, or thought very much of himself and liked to dress accordingly. "Evening. You'll have to forgive me if it isn't though, I seem to have come down with a case of space lag." He nodded politely. "Senator Haytham Quezzil. It's a pleasure to participate in these proceedings in his stead."
Ayana continued to smile at Yuriko and Rose as they approached. "And mine to finally meet you as well, Commodore Shichou. You're quite the busy woman," she replied politely.
“Ah, Senator.” Tomoe nodded to the Senator in greetings. “I understand that your superior’s transport was delayed... I hope he will arrive soon, until then, I am quite sure you can manage to serve in his place.”
“It seems, all that were invited are now here.” The High Priest stated in observation. “If you would please take your seats we can begin addressing the topics which were indicated in the invitation process.”
Destiny simply let her brother do the talking for a bit and waited until all the others were seated before she took her own.
Castellan gave the new arrival a small wave. "Ah, Nepleslians. They make the highs even higher, and the lows more frequent," she said to no one in particular as she took a seat.
Yuriko simply nodded politely to the Nepleslian before steering Rose towards a pair of seats at the table. She herself sat down, and entwined her fingers together as she waited quietly.
"Aha! Vanderhuge was right when he said you folks had great senses of humor." Haytham replied Castellan, taking his seat. As a former businessman, it was probably for the best that he had been sent to a meeting that seemed to be about 'trade'.
Ayana bowed to the Nepleslian Senator with a polite smile as she took her seat and waited patiently for the conference to begin.
“As indicated in the invitation, the primary purpose of this meeting is to discuss the situation of the Free state As friends to them as per our peace and trade agreements, we the Lorath Matriarchy, feel it is our duty as friends to offer what aid we can. Along with our obligation on paper, we feel a responsibility to help a people which have gone through a disaster much like what was inflicted upon our own people, by the same source.” The High Priest spoke as he tapped at a panel on the table. A volumetric image came up in the middle of the table indicating sensor data retrieved from the independent ship ‘Maras’, which was present at the Great Lighthouse incident.
Ayana looked at the sensor data blankly, uncertain of what point exactly Tomoe was trying to make.
"I was wondering if someone was going to take the initiative to offer some aid after the cats had their way with those folks." Haytham nodded, retrieving his data pad from inside of his suit jacket. "So what did you have in mind?"
“Due to the incident, as we well know, our friends have been displaced from the only place they could possibly refer to as a ‘home’. Along with this, there were numerous organic life form deaths, and far more prisoners taken. The disruption upon their society was massive...” When the Nepleslian spoke, The Lorath High Priest smiled. “Mmm, you caught on quick. I have in mind massive economic aid, medical supplies, analysis of the population issue, and maybe supplying industrial and military assets as needed.”
Yuriko arched an eyebrow at the High Priest, as if saying 'So that's why I am here.' to him before smiling a little at the proposal.
"Well, who doesn't like free stuff?" Castellan piped in happily, then hesitated for a moment. With a more serious tone she quickly added, "Ahem, what I mean to say is we would graciously appreciate any aid and support that can be offered in this time of need."
Destiny chuckled a little at the eagerness of the Free Spacer. It was cute in a way as she nodded. "Of course, free things are always a welcomed thing I'm sure in any race."
“Mmm... there is more to the situation than merely ‘free stuff’. We also are wishing to offer assets which are of a sensitive technological nature, and due to the nature of the assets, we would ask that the Free State, or at least the nodes wishing to use the assets, agree to an affiliation with the United Manufacturing Cooperative for security reasons.” With the High Priest words, a volumetric display appeared before the Free spacer representative. The display indicated information on the United Manufacturing Cooperative, its purpose, and its rather loose affiliation policy.
“Of course... the contributive rules will be waved, due to the situation of the Free State at this time. However, all of the benefits remain intact.” The Lorath High Priest quickly added in.
Ayana seemed intrigued by this "sensitive technological nature" business but did not feel the need to comment on it at this point. She thought over what the Colonies could provide in humanitarian aide to the Free Spacers but she wasn't really sure how distribution of such aide would work. "I have a question, Castellan how could we provide aide to the other... nodes... if you are mostly nomadic? Would there be a good way of distributing supplies?"
"Oh, we can manage all that internal jazz." Castellan said dismissively. "Our State's sentient econometrics program does a quite good job managing logistics and distribution patterns. So long as the goods are shipped to a Ley Line node, we can take care of most of the rest." She paused for a moment. "And, frankly, not many nodes are eager to share their whereabouts with others given what happened the last time. It's best just to leave dissemination to us."
Interesting. So, is this a well-timed bribe, or a gift to smooth a deal over? Haytham pondered to himself, as he quirked an eyebrow. He wasn't exactly a stranger to certain business methodologies, especially when they involved getting an expedient result, but he'd have to learn more about the Lorath's social conventions before making any hasty assumptions. "You've got Port Hope, miss Castellan." He said, remembering hearing about a large gathering of ships not too far away from his district.
“Mmm... if you desire, we could handle the transport of the goods utilizing our own assets instead of hiring a third party if that makes you feel more comfortable about revealing a ley line location.” The High Priest offered before the senator spoke. “Yes of course, we could also ship to a location which you still have assets at, such as Null and Void, or Port Hope which the Senator was good enough to mention.”
Ayana nodded her understanding. "Understandable, so long as we know where we can send the goods to be distributed, we'll see what we can do, once I discuss the matter with the other members of the Assembly," she added softly.
Destiny simply nodded to the ideas set forth by both her brother and the Prime Minister. Seemed things were going smoothly so far.
Yuriko meanwhile simply looked to Rose briefly, and then brought up the United Manufacturing Cooperative's assets. She quietly went over all of this in her mind as she continued to sit there looking attentive.
“So, Castellan, would you feel comfortable with a loose affiliation? Do not worry, even if you choose not to affiliate, we will still give your people aid, it will simply just not include some of our sensitive technologies.” The High Priest explained as he prepared to move onto the next topic after the reply from the representative.
Ayana started looking a little green around the gills, so to speak. She quickly stood up, "Excuse me," she said quickly as she excused herself from the room and the table.
"One thing I will surely not miss..." Destiny said aloud as she watched Ayana exit the room quickly.
The High Priest gave a soft chuckle at his sister’s comment as he waited on the Freespacer’s reply.
"Hmm, yes, Port Hope should suffice for now." Castellan gave the High Priest a slight frown. "I regret, however, we can't really promise any binding to the UMC, nor the enforcement of them should any nodes agree. The fact a profit-driven organization is trying to impress upon us a binding contract during our darkest hour seems to allude to...exploitation? Maybe nothing so sinister, but it's still cause for suspicious and requires further analysis."
“As I said, we ask no contribution. Its merely a formality to permit us to share some of our technology which will help you back on your feet, and make assets available to you for use. But, I will gladly keep the offer open for later... This moves us onto the next topic of our discussion...” The High Priest went on.
"Hrm... the Prime Minister has been away for a while..." The High priest observed as he spoke to his sister, Yuriko, and Yuriko's companion. "One of you ladies care to check on her?"
Destiny looked to Yuriko, waiting to see if she would act first, or if Destiny herself would go check on her. She didn't mind either way. "Miss Yuriko? If not, I will go instead. My brother can speak on my behalf and you are your only representative."
"If you would not mind Xiaah?" Yuriko asked politely.
"I shall return then." Destiny nods a little and stands, giving the group a small bow before exiting the room in a quick manner, hoping the Prime Minister was ok.
"Well, until my sister returns... we shall continue as much as we can. The issue of trade is next." Tomoe prompted as he looked to the Free State and
Nepleslian representatives. "Since we have an agreement in place, I would like to take this opportunity to confirm and renew our agreement with the Nepleslian Imperium and the Free State to continue our exchange of goods. I'd also like to try to negotiate an arrangement for the potential exchange of United Manufacturing Cooperative goods, and Nepleslian Arms and Munitions goods."
Yuriko nodded slightly. "I have no issues with this, provided some of our proprietary technologies remain within our strict control."
"Of course, there is that topic. Technologies such as some of our armor technologies and power sources will have to be kept under lock and key, however, we would like to trade in some of our less-than-classified goods." Tomoe elaborated.
"Of course, of course, I believe some of our medical technologies and goods could be made available. As well as other assorted materials." Yuriko replied in turn with a small nod of her head.
Castellan propped up her left arm and rested her chin in her hand. "Just give me a list of the items, prices, and estimated shipping times to the depot. We'll let the econometrics programmes run through all that jazz. I can't say I have much of a head for number crunching myself, my AI notwithstanding."
Haytham cleared his throat. "An agreement for the trade of certain goods would be perfectly acceptable, but as for NAM... we do not specifically sell our products, save for certain essential products which are often subcontracted to civilian agencies for distribution under our regulation. Firearms, medicines and cybernetics should be easy to get a hold of once your borders are open again."
Destiny came in after a bit and took her place at the table again. She waited for the others to finish before she spoke.
"So, that is a confirmation from our friends in the Free State... I'm glad we can continue to exchange goods and services." Tomoe then paused as he listened to Haytham's response. "Mmm, would it be possible to subcontract the production of certain goods to the UMC for distribution within the borders of the UOC? I assure you that NAM will receive a majority of the profit."
Yuriko coughed delicately. "The Harbor Master has made me privy to the fact Nepleslian trade vessels are free to enter and exit the UOC." She pointed out.
"Sister, how is the Prime Minister?" Tomoe asked as he looked to Destiny with an inquisitive expression.
Destiny shook her head a little. "Unfortunately, the Prime Minister is to sick to continue. I've had her taken to our medical wing to be watched after, and she was asked that the Crowned Prince continue for this."
"I assume she has contacted him?" Tomoe asked in follow-up as he stood up from the table to go to a nearby closet to retrieve a volumetric projector.
Haytham expression hardened a little bit, but remained largely at ease at Tomoe's question. "Nepleslia will export freely, but it is not within our economic policy to subcontract production outside of our country."
"Yes, I aided her, but yes." Destiny nodded a little to her brother before looking to the Nepleslian.
"Yes, yes. We know." Castellan waved her hand dismissively at Haytham. "You're both looking out for your respective manufacturing cartels. It's such a shame you two organizations won't get with the times and adopt proper industrial automation; infinite, expendable labor simply can't be competed with."
"That sounds acceptable." Tomoe replied as he ducked under the table and went about plugging in the volumetric projector... Within a few minutes the projector was active and it merely awaited the signal from the UOC's Prince so it would activate and project him. Tomoe made his way back to his seat where he waited a moment to allow the Free State and Nepleslia representatives to speak.
Tomoe looked at the projector patiently before he released a sigh. "When the Prince's communication line is opened, we can move onto our next subject which requires his attention."
Tio's image appeared, a slight grin on his face as he addressed those gathered at the conference. "I apologize for not being able to come in person. Either way the United Outer Colonies are happy to continue being apart of these discussions." The crowned Prince fell quiet, he awaited their comments on his greeting.
"We are gracious you could step in on such short notice Prince. Do not worry for the Prime Minister, she is being watched over by our medical personnel." Destiny bowed her head slightly and smiled to the Prince, simply watching his expression.
Tio gave a slight nod in response to Destiny. "Thank you your highness."
"Welcome crowned Prince Tio, I am glad that you are able to join us. We were waiting on some important matters until you could be reached. We have plenty to speak of, and I am quite sure you would like to be able to give feed back." The Lorath High Priest said welcoming the Prince. "So, onward to our next topic... Trade route defense."
Tio quietly rerouted the feed to one of the Tange Ops Centers so that the meeting could be observed more closely.
Castellan briefly touched her ear piece for a moment, and quickly sat up straight. "Oh, good news. Here they are." She smiled, sweetly. "I hope you won't mind; we invited one more. Since you're not elitist swine like the Yammies, I assume it wouldn't be a problem."
"Well, since we have all agreed on trading with one another... I think it is a wise choice to speak on the matter of defending the ships which will be conducting said trade. At this time, we have a---" The High Priest paused when Castellan spoke, he raised his brow before asking a simple question. "Who?"
Yuriko covered her mouth and coughed to cover up a chuckle at Castellan's choice of words before quirking an eyebrow quizzically.
Destiny narrowed her eyes a little at Castellan as she heard the news, resisting the urge to roll her eyes before she nodded. "It would be rude to refuse when they are on our doorstep.
"Well... you can be cheap about it and solve a safety problem the Nepleslian way. Give everyone more guns, so they're all equally prepared to get into fights." Haytham piped in, fiddling with his data pad He perked an eyebrow at Castellan's words, but continued. "But that would be poor economic policy."
Tio raised a brow, he kept quiet as usual.
A message sounded from the communication system built into the room. A rather generic automated voice spoke up. "A Motoyoshi Fleetyard-Novacorp representative and an Elysian representative are requesting admittance."
The announcement quirked the High Priest's brow before he gave a look to his sister. "We don't want to be rude, do we?"
"Why, the Elysians, of course. Our sociological projections indicate that, due to their turbulent past with Yamatai, there would likely be a fair number among their ruling class who harbor hostile feelings towards our common adversary. Since you're not elitist pigs," she said with added emphasis, "I thought the more, the merrier!"
Destiny shook her head, mentally giving a command to the security detail to meet and escort the representatives to the room.
Tio offered quietly "I have no problems with the addition of these delegates."
Tomoe also accompanied Destiny's permission for them to be admitted by sending a message to the workers outside of the cleanroom-turned-conference-room that there should be a welcoming package set out for the representatives. Gloves, face masks for anyone who may be ill, and data pads detailing the conference details.
Yuriko scratched her chin at that. She'd heard plenty of the 'Old Wars' from Koharu. "That they do, I've heard many things in regards to past wars between the Elysians, and Yamataians. Right back to the times of the Heavenly Wars." She said as she sat there tapping her fingers on the table.
Andariel always felt somewhat uncomfortable on board a Thantros. The S19 was a brutally efficient crewman, but they made her uncomfortable, very uncomfortable. However, as she found herself surrounded by them she had to deal with it. Well, anyway. A transmission was necessary so she made one! "This is Second Legate of the Elysian Senate Andariel Vokos speaking. I would like to request permission to land, by shuttle."
"Permission granted. Please follow our directions to the nearest clear landing area." Came a female voice, the feed audio only.
"Our additional guests shall be joining us soon... so until then... Castellan I am interested in your description of Yamatai, could you tell us more?" Tomoe asked as he sat back in his seat, patiently awaiting the incoming guests.
"Well Miss Castellan, we sure as hell aren't elitist pigs. Elysians..." Haytham said to the Freespacer as he scratched his head. "... I'm a little surprised they'd show. We're neighbors for two years and we don't even get as much as a bitter hello. But you've got moxie kid, and I like it."
Fleet Admiral Tomori had come ahead of the Elysian and stood at the entrance of the room, in front of the security detail. She promptly went through the security checks, and the doors to the room opened, Rina was wearing a black suit, her silver and gold hair done in its usual bob cut, her blue eyes rather alert to her surroundings as she looked at the arrayed people. "High Priest, I'm here to represent the MFY-Novacorp assets." She said, and gave a curt nod.
"Acknowledged. I will await further directions." Andariel made for the prepared Velcior shuttle, and dispatched from the Thantros. She briefly considered the originally planned contingent of bodyguards. And she promptly decided against it, dispatching on her own, a minor break in protocol that she deemed necessary for her personal comfort. And she followed directions as they came, for landing.
Tio sat quietly and listened absorbing all the information being discussed. Awaiting for the true issues of matter to come up to comment. His mind absent, more concerned about the condition of Ayana.
"We've got no lack of moxie or courage in the State," Castellan beamed, "and you Neps aren't too far behind either...though I'm actually curious as to how much of it is natural since Nepleslian per-capita alcohol consumption is unprecedented."
"Greetings Admiral. I am glad that you have been able to make an appearance... Even if it is unexpected." The High Priest stood up before stepping to a nearby closet... He pulled out a pair of chairs and brought them to the table. "You and another guest are arriving at the same time, so it is only easier to set out both seats."
A group of Fyunnen awaited at the landing pad with a small package in hand. As the ship landed, they would of course run the normal precautionary checks on the Elysian, before ushering her to the conference room.
Rina nodded, un-perturbed by the remark as she took the offered seat.
A mere few minutes would go by before the Elysian representative would be escorted to the hatchway which lead into the conference room, the Fyunnen escort stepped aside to allow the Elysian to enter and announce themselves.
Andariel, upon going through the inspection and being escorted to the conference room, took a bare second to observe the others there present, then offered the requisite announcement. "I greet you. I am Andariel Vokos, Second Legate to the Elysian Senate, and Elysia is honored by the invitation extended to us." She moved to take a seat after that, pulling away her soh'k'tohs before sitting and letting it fall to a rest in her lap.
"It's why we've gotten along fine so far, toots. Anyone that can hold their liquor, hates the cats and likes machines are always welcome." Haytham replied, this time smiling quite mischievously. Despite his experience as a gambler and businessman, he still had a terribly expressive face. He glanced up and tipped his hat to the Elysian. "Nice to have you here, Miss Second Legate."
"A pleasure. Welcome to our meeting, I hope the trip was pleasant?" Destiny asked, keeping her tone and actions civil. Internally she was a little ticked, but this was less meetings she had to deal with now.
The High Priest gave a nod of his head to the Legate. "Greetings Legate, I am the Lorath High Priest, Tomoe. I welcome you to our conference, and I am glad our Free State friends had the whim to invite your people to this gathering."
"Then maybe one day we three need to go and toss a few back." Yuriko suggested to Haytham and Castellan as the Elysian seated herself. When the female introduced herself, Yuriko inclined her head. "It is a pleasure to have the Elysians amongst us in these proceedings."
"It wasn't a whim," Castellan glanced at Tomoe,"It was very well thought-out, you know. We just think very quickly. You'd understand if your head was crammed full of wires, too."
Destiny chuckled a little at Castellan's words, thinking to some of the older Occhestans.
"But it is." The High Priest replied with a chuckle to Castellan's comment. "A calculated and processed conclusion made at a query concluding with a majority opinion to carry out the behavior at that time seems like a whim to me... Who knows what the query could have resulted in if asked again?"
"I thought it called a cooperative, not a majority rule." Castellan waved her hand dismissively. "Plus, you should be happy with more nations. That means a larger market share."
"If I may, I do not see the relevance to this discussion." Andariel offered up a silvery smile. "As pleasing as small talk can be, I was of the impression that there was more purpose to this meeting than debating what qualifies as whimsy." Andariel found Castellan immediately far more likable than she had expected. Though what she knew about the Free State disturbed her somewhat, this representative was interesting.
"Absolutely true Castellan... and also true Legate." The High Priest quirked his brow at the no-nonsense attitude of the Elysian. "Since we have two guests which have arrived late, I suggest we backtrack to accommodate them... Our previous topics consisted of trade agreements The Free State and Nepleslian Imperium have agreed to establish trade routes with the United Outer Colonies and the United Manufacturing Cooperative. At this time, I would like to offer the same to Elysia... along with a friendship pact establishing that there is no ill will to be had between us. A matter of formality, I'm sure you understand."
Rina entwined her fingers together, and rested her chin upon them. "I would be more then willing to open our borders to such trade with our friends." She said quite kindly.
"At present any race may petition me for entrance into UOC space, I am however very very wary of any YSE vessels close to my border." Rina added with a slight narrowing of the eyes.
"I can assure you, all of you, that Elysia has no interest in aggression or ill will. Friendship between all of our nations is of tantamount importance." Andariel did not explicitly agree to a pact to that affect, perhaps notably. "As for trade routes... Elysia is open to the idea of trade with the U.O.C. and with Nepleslia, however, we have little need to import, and little of interest to export."
Destiny smiled a little, but otherwise simply sits back and watches the going ons of the conference. It was most likely the first time since the peace summit thing that ended horridly that this many foreign countries had gotten together.
The Lorath High Priest readied a data pad and slid it over to the Legate. "Could you please formalize that friendship? I'm sorry, but formalities. You can also agree to a trade pact, which of course sets no obligations for volume of participation."
"Well, I would think Elysia would be open to some cultural oddities, knick knacks, and so on to trade, perhaps even resources, ideas, and so on. We never not know if there is something to trade or not until we put our cards on the table after all." Yuriko said as she sat there looking pleased at the proceedings thus far. "Besides, I have been quite curious on some of Elysia's beverages, foods, clothing and so on."
"It would come down to what Elysian entrepreneurs are willing and allowed to export and import. I imagine that you'll want to restrict what comes in and comes out of your country." Haytham shrugged, tapping his data pad with a pen. "I never really got to deal with any of you people, but I remember hearing about cultural and economic protectionism. Probably why I never got around to it until I became a politician." He said quite blankly, keeping his gaze on the Second Legate until she replied.
"It must be finalized by our Senate, of course, but I will agree to your terms of friendship and give my full support to them with the Senate." Andariel paused there. "While I appreciate your interest in our culture, much of it is quite sacred to us. We would be most uncomfortable marketing our clothing, save perhaps for the simplest of articles. I can bring up the possibility with our Senate, but that I can assure no outcome on."
The Lorath High Priest frowned visibly "If you're unwilling to sign a friendship pact, then I'm unsure of feeling easy about you sitting in on the upcoming sensitive discussions between those gathered here... Could you contact your senate?"
Andariel mused for a moment. "I would like to know precisely what the friendship pact entails before I take it upon myself. If I am to sign something, I would like very much to know the details of your proposal." She cleared her throat. "Friendship Pact is, after all, a rather vague term."
"Just as what was agreed between the Free State and Nepleslia prior to this conference. It is merely a pact stating that our ships won't consider your ships hostile, and vice versa. It also establishes that we will not take undue measures against one another's citizens and assets. It essentially means that we won't look to hurt you, and you won't look to hurt us."
Andariel nodded once, brushing her fingers over her lips, then smiled again. "If that is the term of your pact, I can and will sign it on behalf of the Senate. There is nothing there that we do not already observe. If that will allow us to proceed in this conference, then let it be done."
"Thank you, just press your thumb or whatever digit you favor against the plate on the data pad and that will be accepted as your signature." The High Priest explained.
Destiny let out a soft sigh of relief as she heard everything go smoothly. She hated politics, needing get this approved and that approved. She was so glad that her race just followed her and her brother.
Andariel signed with her thumb as directed, then folded her hands on her lap. "Can we move on now, then? I can promise for a pact of nonaggression, I can not offer the same promise as it applies to trade. As I have said, there is little Elysia would be willing to export that others may be interested in."
"Well, we shall see at a later data in individual communications... Now we shall move onto the topic of trade route defense." The Lorath High Priest spoke as he looked upon the group which seemed to stretch at the seams.
"Mmm, to plan a proper defense of the exchange of goods between our groups is a small logistical issue. The primary problem is the Yamataian Empire which sits directly between us, and the potential possibility of third-party raiders along the way." The High Priest commented as he summoned up a map of the charted portion of space upon the table. Tiny dots of light hovered in an inky blackness, some were bare, others were marked with names and flags. Between them were lines, markers, and little dots indicating ship movements.
"I am rather wary...pirates have taken advantage of the aftermath of the YSE/SMX war, and have been roaming the space lines so to speak. We just had to clear out a fleet about four days ago that had been preying on our freighters." Yuriko pointed out, and then tapped the table idly with her fingers. "I have however been trying to alleviate these issues, from my main posting as a Commodore, and as a chairperson of the UMC."
"Commodore, what is your assessment of the strength of the pirate space forces?" Tomoe asked as he looked to Yuriko.
