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The Multiverse

Setting


Caprica City is a thriving urban center; home to trade, industry, entertainment, and Aschen Military installations and spaceports. The city is located between the Caprican Bay and the Delphi Mountains, covering a wide expanse of land, divided by a number of waterways.

The skyline of Caprica City is distinguished by a number of prominent skyscrapers, with ultramodern glass and metal architecture intermingled with older, brick and stone buildings. The city is also populated by a number of statues bearing the likenesses of the Lords of Kobol

At night, the city is illuminated by hundreds of neon lights and animated billboards.

Locations within Caprica City are.

Apollo Park is a sprawling recreation area located above street level; essentially a large amphitheater with cafes, landscaped with trees and a grassy area. Apollo Park is distinguished by a large statue of the God Apollo

Atlas Arena is the home court of the Caprica City Buccaneers pyramid team. Owned by wealthy industrialist Daniel Graystone, the stadium hosts teams from many of the Imperial Worlds, including the Gemenon Twins and the Tauron Bulls, as well as the Pyramid Worlds Championships games. Able to accommodate more than 30,000 fans, Atlas Arena stands in downtown Caprica City - along one of its waterways - and features a large statue of Atlas himself

The Riverwalk section of Caprica City is an open-air promenade and park area. Landscaped with fountains and large reflecting pools, as well as playground equipment for families with children, the Riverwalk also features a large bazaar with vendors and other amenities

Orpheus Park is another large public park in Caprica City, this one located outside the downtown area. Distinguished by a network of jogging paths, large wooded areas and open fields providing mountain vistas.

The sprawling campus of Graystone Industries - the Caprica-based technology company owned by industrialist, scientist, and capitalist Daniel Graystone - is located near the waterfront of Caprica City. Spread throughout several modern buildings dominated by a pentagonal tower, Graystone Industries' campus houses labs, offices, boardrooms, landing pads for aircraft and a "big, beautiful" gym, complete with boxing ring. It is at its Caprica City campus that the company pioneers such technology as the holoband and the U-87 Cyber Combat Unit

Among Caprica City's more diverse locations is Little Tauron, an ethnic enclave home to a sizable population of Tauron immigrants. Within the neighborhood, residents often speak the Tauron language and own and operate shops catering to Tauron cultural needs, including grocery stores, butchers and printing shops. Despite the family residences and peace of the neighborhood, members of the Ha'la'tha crime syndicate are widely known operate in relative comfort within the confines of Little Tauron, walking the streets with near impunity

Like any major metropolitan area, Caprica City provides a wealth of residential areas of varying economy for its citizens, from high density suburban housing to luxurious seaside and lakeside homes. Away from the urban sprawl and skyscrapers of downtown Caprica, families lived in tract housing and middle-class neighborhoods, with trash pickup provided by the city.

Schools in the area included Athena Academy, a private institute devoted to the teachings of the Goddess Athena as wells public schools like Wilson Elementary School, Promethia High School and Apollo University.

Mass transit in Caprica City was carried out a number of ways including city buses, taxi cabs and the Metropolitan Levitation Mass Transit system, or MLMT train. Operating both below ground and on elevated platforms, the MagLev train provided public transport to destinations all over Caprica City, including Atlas Arena and the city's spaceports. A network of expressways and freeways link various sections of the city together, but are often congested.
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Caprica City

The capital of the United Aschen Empire.

Minimap

Caprica City is a part of Caprica.

7 Places in Caprica City:

35 Characters Here

Dominic Hagan [204] The illegitimate son of Miles Hagan; an ambitious young man with all the time and money in the world.
Casey Delancy [104] WCPD's newest Chief of Police
Confederation Protection Force [102] The notorious Aschen CPF, committed to keeping the Aschen Safe.
Helene Chaska [86] The Minister of Defense for the United Aschen Empire
Daessee [73] See it, Want it, Tantrum, Get It :)
Sire Thomas Zarek [69] Sire of the Sagittaron Province and Member of the House of Parliament of the Aschen Confederation.
Julianna Hagan [63] After Tech Con was given to her half-brother, Dominic Hagan, Julia finds herself a nominee for Miss Multiverse.
The Guatrau [58] Leader of the Tauron based Ha'la'tha
Zak Resdon [57] Aschen Intelligence Officer.
Leanne McGregor [55] The cousin of Raphael McGregor studying law at Caprican Institute of Legal Ethics but aspires to become an actress.

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Setting

12 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Sheila Nagala Character Portrait: Imperial Defense Force Character Portrait: Gina Inviere Character Portrait: Shimizu Takayama Character Portrait: Éclaire Hanley Character Portrait: E.V.E. Character Portrait: Confederation Protection Force Character Portrait: Sire Thomas Zarek Character Portrait: Helene Chaska Character Portrait: Kazundo Gōda Character Portrait: Mitth'raw'nuruodo Character Portrait: Confessor Ayla
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Ayla stayed silent as Shimizu dominated the negotiations. She'd expected no less from the man what little of his reputation, and the delicate political web of both nations she knew of. But mostly it was Thrawn's own words that stayed her tongue, and increased her grip. They echoed through her still damaged mind, reverberating off of every dark, shattered recess with discomfort. She knew a threat when she heard one, no matter how "carefully" veiled it was. "The safety of the Aschen on Terra.." It left her only vaguely aware of Goda's presence, though thanks to an eidetic memory it wasn't an issue.

Tenchi-Ken being placed on the table caught her eye though, snapping her out of the brief brood just long enough. It was, in truth, a beautiful thing, and whether or not it was truly the "most powerful weapon in creation" was well beyond her. She could absolutely feel the power it emminanted though. Like a buzzing in the back of her skull, and up her teeth. The havoc she could cause with such a thing..

Again she returned her attention to the meeting, just in time for Zarek's outburst. He seemed prone to emotionality to the Confessor, and Ayla didn't doubt ulterior motives beyond even that of the IIA were at play with him. Inspectors were usually a forgone conclusion in such negotiations, so his insistence raised a flag. Perhaps he was in need of a private conversation himself later. But first things first.

"The Soja.." she mused, recalling the Aschen intelligence the Cabal had gathered on it. A more impressive ship had yet to be built, although Thrawn would be hard pressed to be aware of that fact. As much as Shimizu's obvious plan alarmed her it was better for both empires if the severity was left understated. "That would certainty be a sight, Ten'nō-heika," it was hard to keep the annoyance from her tone, but Ayla managed. Barely. "I've heard your peace tours are quite legendary. Terra would be honoured indeed, and I applaud your effort." There was a "but" coming, and the Confessor made no effort to hide it.

"However," she said with a cluck of the tongue, her fingers now digging in to Thrawn's shoulder. "I will not tolerate a threat to the Aschen Empire, or her innocent civilians manning their posts abroad." She glared down at Thrawn, leveling her comment directly at him, and not Shimizu. "'The safety of the Aschen on Terra?'" Snarled the Confessor, setting her glass down next to Thrawn with exaggerated care. "Do you think me deaf? My colleagues dull of mind? You come here claiming peace, and yet you brought guns to our capital. You have spoke of war!"

Her anger was clearly rising, and cracks were beginning to form in her detached persona. The violence within was going to leak at this rate.

"You have made threats, several, and thinly veiled! There is no "protection" your paultry backwater can offer us, nor any harm it can inflict. Such arrogant posturing is exactly why the Shintenchi Shogunate keeps weapons of mass destruction aimed at every Terran city!"

She released the Defense Minister, breaking from his side with a sweeping stride. She moved elegantly now, and with a speed far beyond that of a standard human, coming to a stop in front of the display with Big Brother's visage. She clasped her hands behind her back, and stared up at the massive screen in contemplation. It was difficult for Ayla to reel her rage in, the procedure Marlene had performed helped, yes, but not enough. Nothing stopped the need for battle, and inflicting pain.

After a moment she spoke again, now with a forced calm that barely hid the storm beneath. "So I will ask you once more, a mercy rarely granted by a Confessor Minister Thrawn, and your answer will determine much. What does the Aschen Empire stand to gain from this?"

Setting

11 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Sheila Nagala Character Portrait: Imperial Defense Force Character Portrait: Gina Inviere Character Portrait: Shimizu Takayama Character Portrait: Éclaire Hanley Character Portrait: E.V.E. Character Portrait: Confederation Protection Force Character Portrait: Sire Thomas Zarek Character Portrait: Helene Chaska Character Portrait: Mitth'raw'nuruodo Character Portrait: Confessor Ayla
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Thrawn's Jaw tightened and his eyes narrowed as the second Taiyou entered the room, and his eyes moved to the Tenchi-Ken intently as Shimizu spoke. His gaze softened slightly as he looked to the Aschen in the room, even towards the Confessor, who seemed to be throwing an almost childish fit with her unstable emotions running amok. As Shimizu finished talking, Thrawn returned his gaze to the young Emperor, and his eyes narrowed ever so slightly, his gaze becoming hard.

Shimizu's change of mood and sudden dominance has changed the mood of the room. The Aschen have all gone stiff under their clothing, and have become extremely uncomfortable. The Young Emperor's Dominance attempts to overtake Thrawn. Regardless, the agreement of a Defense Force for Terra is being reached."

Thrawn smiled. For once, he smiled, and his visage of stern, unwavering determination was cracked.

"You will have your weapons inspectors, and as soon as the Shipyards are built within the Sol System you will be given their locations. I assure you, the Terran Self Defense Force will meet your... parameters." Thrawn answered Zarek's demands almost dismissively. Shimizu had his attention now.

"As you wish, Ten'nō-heika. But in that respect, I must also request you address me solely as Grand Admiral. Equal Respect Given as it is Received. The Taiyou are a respect and honor driven society after all." Thrawn paused. Shimizu was different. His smile faded, and he straightened his posture. He wasn't backing down from that demand, and a rivalry was born between the Chiss Grand Admiral, and the young Taiyou Emperor.

Turning his attention to the Confessor, Thrawn's smile completely faded, and his stern visage returned. He smoothed out his uniform where her unwanted hand had been, and lowered his tone. Now he was establishing dominance. "Chiss do not make Idle Threats. I have not made a threat, nor a promise, of harm to the Aschen people on Terra. What I have made is a proposal that would logically put the minds of Aschen leaders at ease. You have proven me wrong." His tone had become stinging, like a whip. He wasn't wrong, and surely even the Aschen big-wigs could see childishness in the Confessor's outburst.

Thrawn stood smoothly as he was addressed as Minister - something that was not correct. He didn't bother correcting her - she would only lash out like a child again. "My proposal remains the same. A Terran Defense Force would stand to defend everyone on Terra. Terran, Taiyou, and Aschen like, from outside harm. Granted that there is little to no hostility between each respective people..." his Crimson eyes trailed to Shimizu. The Young Emperor's devious games were beginning to be unravel before Thrawn, and he was working to pick the man apart in his mind. "...I speak of war because of how often it happens on Terra. I speak of peace because ultimately that is the goal of all life: To live in Peace. However Everyone in this room knows that without a strong Force of War, Peace can rarely be achieved.

"You, however, have tried and failed to intimidate me throughout this entire process by strategically placing yourself behind me, invading my personal space, and even going as far as to lay a hand on my person."
Thrawn walked away from his seat, pulling gently on the bottom of his tunic to straighten out the wrinkles, before clasping his hands behind his back and stopping near a window to observe the city. "Your presence is likewise a threat to my existence. A ploy by the Aschen in order to gain dominance over these negotiations. Something taken by Ten'nō-heika.".

He turned to look over his shoulder, glowing red eyes taking in the scene behind him. Killing him would only spark an incident, and while both Aschen and Taiyou could easily swat any Terran reaction to such an action, the political nightmare of dealing with the death of an unarmed diplomat, in this case, was something many would rather not deal with. Thrawn was playing a very dangerous game.

Image


"The Aschen and Taiyou both will be allowed as many inspectors as they wish for anything within the Terran Defense Force. From training to manufacturing. Trade and Transport of the previously mentioned weapons and troops will be allowed to proceed without hindrance. The location of the Terran Defense Force's Shipyards will be openly provided once they are built, andp perhaps most importantly: My Colleagues and I representing the Terran National Government will be allowed to leave Aschen Space unhindered." he finally turned to face them fully, having gone over what has been agreed upon, or demanded in much of it, of himself and the hope for a revived and bolstered Terran Defense Force. His hands remained behind his back, his expression remained stern, and his eyes swept the room's occupants. "Are we agreed?" he asked cordially, lifting his chin slightly, his eyebrows lifting.

Setting

11 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Sheila Nagala Character Portrait: Imperial Defense Force Character Portrait: Gina Inviere Character Portrait: Shimizu Takayama Character Portrait: Éclaire Hanley Character Portrait: E.V.E. Character Portrait: Confederation Protection Force Character Portrait: Sire Thomas Zarek Character Portrait: Helene Chaska Character Portrait: Mitth'raw'nuruodo Character Portrait: Confessor Ayla
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Shimizu kept his gaze affixed to the Grand Admiral, even as he moved from his seat, his movements about the room, his survey of the cityscape before them, none of these details were missed by the young Emperor, his keen eyes trained to follow even the most subtle of twitches.

"Even as weak as he was... my father would have struck this man down on his insolence alone..." Shimizu quietly mused to himself.

"Your defense force is useless to me." Shimizu retorted. "They would protect nothing more than Terra's own interests." The Emperor added, slowly rising to his feet, his hands moving to smooth down the wrinkles of his suit, which was accented by a bold, bright red tie.

All Aschen eyes were on the Confessor, on Thrawn.

"Analysis... your psychological tactics have begun to unnerve the Grand Admiral, by moving from his seat, he has demonstrated marked uncomfortableness... I will continue monitoring... and adjusting fidelity for physiological readings..." EVE Chirped in Ayla's ear.

"Recommendation; Maintain your presence. Even though the Taiyou Emperor seeks to head these negotiations; you are a Confessor, the right hand of our Emperor, Shimizu Takayama has no authority here. You must exercise caution with this judgement..."


"Update: I have detected coded bitstream signals originating from this location... destination... the ITN Soja." EVE Added.

"Analyzing.... Code deciphered... Orders have been disseminated to the crew of the Soja to retrieve Emperor Shimizu, and then proceed to Terra... Deciphering encrypted Taiyou Cybercomms... The 1st Imperial Armada under Admiral Hideauzu has been dispatched from Niihama... and will arrive in Sol in three weeks." EVE Continued, revealing the machinations of the Taiyou to Ayla.

"To insinuate that we would not allow you, or your colleagues to leave unhindered is an insult, Grand Admiral." Chairman Inviere spoke up. "If trust runs that thin... perhaps it is not in the best interests to the Aschen Empire to allow this army of yours to come to fruition... it would neither be tactically sound, or strategically advantageous..." The Aschen woman replied, tapping her pen on the paper. She was firm in her resolve, but Shimizu, and the presence of the Confessor unnerved her.

"To that end, Terra is a sovereign nation, recognized to that extent... and your government will do what it wills; but understand there will be consequences."

"Your proposal still needs to be ratified by our governments..." Zarek spoke up, reaching his hand out to take a glass of ambrosia, pouring himself some of the bittersweet liquid. "And yours... I'll need to transmit them to the TNG Delegation, and our Quorum to be ratified during the TNG State visit..." The Sire added.

Shimizu slowly made his way over towards Thrawn, clasping his own hands behind his back, matching the Grand Admiral's pose.

"We have territories on Terra..." Shimizu said softly. "Takara Sato is a fiercely loyal Shogun, and personal friend. Her father is a hero to the Taiyou; but her people in the Shintenchi Shogunate are starving, she detests the Terran National Government, and the discontent of her people threaten to boil over." The young Emperor explained, keeping his inflection monotone, devoid of any emotion. "If your insolence continues to try my patience... Grand Admiral... I will inevitably find myself unable to assuage their discontent." The young Emperor said softly, inclining his head. "You understand." He added, venom seeping from his words in a thinly veiled threat. The Shoguns were absolutely loyal to the Emperor, a fact Shimizu knew.

Setting

11 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Sheila Nagala Character Portrait: Imperial Defense Force Character Portrait: Gina Inviere Character Portrait: Shimizu Takayama Character Portrait: Éclaire Hanley Character Portrait: E.V.E. Character Portrait: Confederation Protection Force Character Portrait: Sire Thomas Zarek Character Portrait: Helene Chaska Character Portrait: Mitth'raw'nuruodo Character Portrait: Confessor Ayla
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"The Chiss are an idle threat," whispered the Confessor. So faintly it was to herself, but cathartic all the same. She kept her eyes on the display of Big Brother as the sub-human prattled, not blinking until she heard Shimizu rise. In truth she was only half aware of his reprimand of Thrawn, though greatly approving. Someone needed to lay out the man's place, and with the Taiyou's domination of the negotiations she felt ill equipped. Luckily that was about to be remedied.

EVE suddenly reentered the conversation, even if only on Ayla's ear, and the Confessor listened intently.

The cold, pre-calculated machinations of Niihama didn't surprise her - not in the least. Anyone with half a mind, and a drop of political savvy would've been well aware that Shimizu Takayama didn't simply "show up." She needed to act swiftly with the information EVE provided, but she couldn't risk issuing an order. Not here, not in earshot of the Emperor himself, because Brother-only-knew of he spoke Anquietas, or not. She didn't let it get to her though, the Bïfrost meant an Aschen vanguard could easily arrive first.

More importantly though was the pep talk the A.I have her, no matter how brief. Ayla had yet to "grow into her robes," so to speak, and it left her timid in the presence of a dragon like Shimizu. The last thing she wanted to do was trigger a war, or dispute with their "ally," but..

"But this isn't about you," she realized. "You are not Tim, you are not Kesslee, you are not even the broken tool called 'Ayla' here. You are a Confessor. The right hand of Prince indeed, and in his absence your voice ceases, and becomes his. Would Isambard cower, or stay his tongue?"

"No," replied Ayla rather flatly as she broke the intervening silence in the wake of Shimizu's threat. "We are not in agreement yet, Defense Minister Thrawn. You still have yet to offer us anything at all, let alone anything of value." She pivoted to face the room again, her expression set in calm, but brutal determination. The man had trespassed too far, and it was time he learned how to adress his betters. "You have failed to notice the three most important aspects of this negotiation, so allow me to enlighten you." She strode back to the table, again a hunter stalking its prey, this time though she did not deign to fill her own glass. Instead she slid it over toward Zarek. "Fill it," intoned the Confessor, not even bothering to make eye contact, or wait for a response. There would only be one if the man valued his life.

Turning her focus back to Thrawn, and Shimizu she offered the latter a respectful bow. This was the difficult part, and she had to tip-toe here. "Firstly Ten'nō-heika is indeed a powerful man, but this treatie is Aschen, not Taiyou. I, as the highest representative of the Aschen Empire in this room, will most definitely take his council, and desires to heart. His peace tour is non-negotiable from here on out, but to seek his permission over ours in this matter is an insult."

She rose back to her full height, and since everyone else seemed to be, straightened her robes as well. The gesture had revealed much of her Exo.

"Secondly my presence here is to speak for His Grace when he cannot, or will not lower himself to deal with sub-human garbage personally. You, and your kind are an affront to his senses Thrawn, and you extremely luckily he dispatched me. Emperor Prince would've strangled you himself for your insolence. To imply I serve any other purpose is not only disrespectful, but grounds for me to revoke your status as a diplomat."

This contemptuous creature had clearly not done his homework on the Aschen, they had little patience, but much arrogance. Few surpassed a Confessor in either, or in autonomy, and power.

"Lastly you are not unlike a rude beggar in this matter. From the very start you've attempted to weasel out from under a hard won treatie, wrought in the blood of Aschen martyr-heroes, while offering us nothing. Since you refuse, I will take our price myself. You may have your little fleet, under two ironclad conditions, as well as the aforementioned inspectors. The first, since you're so keen on the pressing safety of Sol the Aschen will dispatch a fleet to serve as Protectorate until your fleet is finished. As well as a reinforcing contigent for Tech Con after the recent anti-Aschen hate crime in Van Leugen, and the myriad of native terrorist forces. Consider it..A sign of good faith. On all our parts."

The entire time Ayla spoke she left her hands clasped, and her eyes boring into the back of Thrawn's skull. He wasn't even worth a face-to-face conversation. He never had been.

"Secondly, no ship you build will have weaponry capable of penetrating an Aschen cruzier's shielding, or hull. Consider that your personal idiot tax."

Setting

11 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Sheila Nagala Character Portrait: Imperial Defense Force Character Portrait: Gina Inviere Character Portrait: Shimizu Takayama Character Portrait: Éclaire Hanley Character Portrait: E.V.E. Character Portrait: Confederation Protection Force Character Portrait: Sire Thomas Zarek Character Portrait: Helene Chaska Character Portrait: Mitth'raw'nuruodo Character Portrait: Confessor Ayla
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Thrawn turned his body back to the city-scape, and his head to the Taiyou Emperor, and his lips were tugged with another smile. "Despite his impatience with Thrawn, he has, at least for now, agreed to return the respect being given to him. The Young Emperor recognizes Thrawn as a threat.

This is fine."


He would simply give a nod of his head to Shimizu, showing his complete understanding of the young man's words. "Then perhaps I can work to ease that distrust. If your people on Terra are truly having such troubles, it would only serve to form a positive bond between your Shogun and the TNG if the latter were to open trade and provide food and water." Thrawn responded in the same low voice, so that only the young man would hear.

Thrawn turned to face the rest of the room."To bring sheer unadulterated insult to a diplomatic meeting is something I did not think even the Aschen representatives would stoop to. No... No indeed they have not. My meeting is -" Thrawn's eye then caught Zarek's, and as the man filled the glass for the Confessor, Thrawn saw the fear. Blinking slowly, Thrawn trailed his eyes back to the Confessor, a new level of understanding filling him. "She is not all boast and temper. The Aschen have not spoken due to their fear of her... and reverence of their Emperor. Thrawn will be hard pressed to win her over."/color]

To Chairman Inviere Thrawn spoke next. [color=Navy]"I do apologize. But the errant hostility fuming in this room leads me to think otherwise. You understand, I'm sure."
Thrawn felt the Confessor's eyes boring into his skull, and yet his mood did not change.

Finally, Thrawn, with his hands still clasped behind his back, strode towards his seat again, stopping behind it. "The Aschen Dignitaries feel as though they have lost all say in matters within these negotiations. The Confessor's numerous outbursts and claims of dominance have seen to that. Regardless of that, she is letting her arrogance, rather than reason, speak, and should not be taken seriously - Above all that, however, her closeness to the Aschen Emperor cannot be ignored."

He turned his head towards the insufferably racist woman, and clasped his hands behind his back once more as he narrowed those glowing red eyes. "To agree to your last term negates the point of having a Defense Fleet. In the event of hostilities between the Terran National Government and the Aschen Empire, there would be no contest. As a Commander of this proposed Navy, I cannot allow such a grievous disadvantage to be placed on it.

"The fact of the matter is that despite the strength of any fleet Terra builds for itself, I will be unable to fully ensure victory against the Aschen or Taiyou Empires. To engage in any sort of hostilities would only end in the destruction of Terra, her resources, and her economy. Surely you of all people recognize the importance of Strength. That is your purpose here: To project strength and prevent me from gaining any sort of upper hand in the negotiations. Not simply to insult me for not being Human or Aschen.

"With a level head, let us get to the bottom of this conundrum. Since you seem to know more of what Terra has to offer in return for this agreement, you tell me: What would be a worthy trade?"
Thrawn's tone evened out, becoming more cordial with each passing word. It was far from soothing... but it was something.

Setting

11 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Sheila Nagala Character Portrait: Imperial Defense Force Character Portrait: Gina Inviere Character Portrait: Shimizu Takayama Character Portrait: Éclaire Hanley Character Portrait: E.V.E. Character Portrait: Confederation Protection Force Character Portrait: Sire Thomas Zarek Character Portrait: Helene Chaska Character Portrait: Mitth'raw'nuruodo Character Portrait: Confessor Ayla
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Shimizu quietly watched the Confessor, but was more amused at Thrawn's insolence, which seemed to provoke even more of a response from the Confessor in the room.

Shimizu wasn't the least bit concerned, but his eyes were on Thrawn; he didn't respect this Chiss one bit, the mighty Grand Admiral was but a meager ant before him, and Thrawn's response had the young Emperor raising but a single eyebrow.

"Takara Sato would sooner burn your cities to ash, than take handouts, putting her shogunate in a position that it would have to rely on your government; she despises the TNG." Shimizu commented rather abruptly, as he turned to look out the window, noting that Ayla was becoming more, and more belligerent.

She reminded Shimizu that this was indeed an Aschen negotiation, not a Taiyou one.

Shimizu returned Ayla's bow with a bow of his own, and a soft smile. "You're right, honorable Confessor, an error I will gladly rectify."

Shimizu then widened his smile slightly, turning back to Thrawn.

"I'll invite you aboard my ship, the Sōja... hmm very pleasant place" Shimizu said. "There, the two of us can engage in our own negotiations in earnest!" The Taiyou Emperor said, with his face contorted into a wicked grin.

"Azaka! Kamidake! We're leaving." The Emperor said aloud, before promptly turning to leave.

The tension in the room lifted as Shimizu departed, returning negotiations back into the control of the Aschen, whom have been silently observing everything that was going on.

Chaska, Zarek, and Inviere silently considered everything that had been transpiring, it was Chaska, who decided to break the ice, and speak up. "I believe the final details of any proposition must be considered by all the interested parties." The Aschen Defense Minister explained.

"These proceedings have bred nothing but animosity, and to be frank, your existence offends us, Alien." Chaska said venomously. "You, and your guards are an affront to everything we stand for."

She kept her tone neutral, but admonishing.

"We will consider your proposals, and bring them before your government, and our own... but as it stands, while we indeed invited you here for discourse. perhaps it would be in everyone's best interests, if you, and your guards.. left this world with all due haste, and we would gladly welcome you... if you decided not to openly offend our sensibilities." The Aschen Minister explained, before rising to her own feet.

"I would be pleased if you accepted a fruit basket, as a token of our thanks for your participation... as we consider your proposal more in depth."

Setting

11 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Sheila Nagala Character Portrait: Imperial Defense Force Character Portrait: Gina Inviere Character Portrait: Shimizu Takayama Character Portrait: Éclaire Hanley Character Portrait: E.V.E. Character Portrait: Confederation Protection Force Character Portrait: Sire Thomas Zarek Character Portrait: Helene Chaska Character Portrait: Mitth'raw'nuruodo Character Portrait: Confessor Ayla
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"That sounds like a prudent coarse of action," added the Confessor. The whole room felt lighter without Shimizu, although his offer of a private negotiation with Thrawn was deeply troubling for two reasons. First, that man was a snake through, and through, as well as the single most powerful man in all of the Andromeda System. It didn't bode well. Secondly she'd be damned if the Taiyou would be the ones to kill the haughty Chiss instead of her.

In fact the second she was out of the conference room she'd be arranging for the use of Terran-side IIA assets, as well the deployment of several hitsquads to secure, torture, and murder the bulk of Thrawn's closest confidants. He would be made to suffer before his, now quite inevitable, death.

"I'll arrange for fellow members of the Cabal to escourt you to your ship, Thrawn. And don't worry about any improprieties on our part, once Sire Zarek, Defense Minister Chaska, and Admiral Inviere have had time to discuss these matters with deligates from the Qurom I will personally present your offer to His Grace." She turned to face the alien once more, offering him a smile that simply oozed with contempt. "Please give your Prime Minister my sincerest regards, and if I may be so bold, a bit of heartfelt advice. The next time she, or Wing City desires something of the Aschen, it would be be wise if they sent someone who wasn't completely ignorant in reguards to our culture. Or in general for that matter, to negotiate."

With that she gestured towards the door, making it clear just how over the meeting was. She herself began to stride towards it, eager to proceed with her own agenda. If things panned out the way she was hoping, or more accurately if she could sell her idea to Prince well enough, she'd be on Terra herself within the week. She longed to return to that cesspit of the inferior, and prove herself. Anything at all to wipe away the shame of her still too recent failure.

Setting

11 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Sheila Nagala Character Portrait: Imperial Defense Force Character Portrait: Gina Inviere Character Portrait: Shimizu Takayama Character Portrait: Éclaire Hanley Character Portrait: E.V.E. Character Portrait: Confederation Protection Force Character Portrait: Sire Thomas Zarek Character Portrait: Helene Chaska Character Portrait: Mitth'raw'nuruodo Character Portrait: Confessor Ayla
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"Thank you, Ten'nō-heika. I will look forward to our meeting in the future." Thrawn said as the Taiyou Emperor dismissed himself. So, the Shogunate was not going to accept help she so obviously needed, and yet again the Aschen only continue to insult him. He was beginning to see the absolute and total need for the Terran Defense Force to be as strong as it could be. And why there was a stigma about the Taiyou and Aschen people's alike. Thrawn observed the lightening of the mood as Shimizu left, and his dull expression turned grim as the Aschen continued to openly insult him, and basically kick him out. He said nothing in return for a while, as the Confessor began to speak as well.

He should not have agreed to come here without more knowledge on the Aschen way of life. This experience, however, was very enlightening for the Chiss Grand Admiral. If Aschen politics were like this, then he could quite easily gain an understanding of their military doctrine, and of their tactics in combat both on the Ground, and in Space. He would build the Terran Defense Fleet to combat both Taiyou and Aschen alike. How to do so without making it obvious however, would prove to be the difficulty.

As they essentially kicked him out, Thrawn's glowing red eyes narrowed slightly, and he nodded. "I thank you for your patience, then, with my apparent insolence and very existence. I do hope that we can eventually come to see Eye to Eye with a more... Level Disposition. I will accept your fruit basket, if you truly intend to offer one. And I will take my Personal Guard with me to my ship." he offered a slight bow to the Aschen Dignitaries. Knowing he was being watched still, his stone-cold expression did well to hide his negative thoughts and emotions for the Aschen and their intolerance.

The Confessor did nothing to hide her contempt, and when Thrawn made Eye Contact with her one last time before leaving, he shot her a look that stated that were this situation any different, the Negotiations would likely also be very productive for the Terran National Government. He walked himself out of the building, waiting for an escort, and his Guard were waiting outside the front door for him.

They would form their protective formation around him, and as usual they were silent. They were however doubly alert adrenal levels heightened in preparation for a possible attack on Thrawn. They knew him well enough to know that these negotiations did not go anywhere near as intended, and that his very presence may have only made things worse for the Terran National Government. Hoping that was not the case, he and his Personal Guard were transported back to their drop-ship, silently climbed aboard, and took off back for the Chimaera. The Star Destroyer still showed signs of damage after the Purgill incident, but otherwise was fully operational.

With a course set for Terra, she came about, and jumped away.

QB has left the area, heading west into dc69df7af9addd73e79d5f72c94080bd.
Mugenak materializes from the void.

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Character Portrait: Mugenak
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Somewhere deep within the mantle of Langara…

A signal.

A whisper trickled along the currents of space-time, spoken in a language long forgotten except by the most ancient of the galactic races, and even then only existed in legends. Those with sufficient technology could trace it somewhere within the galactic core, but it had a single destination - a single message.

Awaken.

Ancient machinery stirred to life. A low hum, as tireless generators flexed with new vigor after eons of slow churning, filled a chamber covered in metal that held no scratches or dents. No lights flickered though, for they served no purpose to the consciousness that heard the signal.

<< Command acknowledged. Beginning firmware update. >>

A burst of data, short as a nanosecond, and the consciousness nodded in its not-space.

<< Protocols accepted. New data incorporated. Archives and backups updated. Beginning reconnaissance. >>

The alien mind spread its consciousness outward, through the countless miles of rocks and minerals, and latched onto the primitive data nodes that were scattered across the surface of the planet. It took a moment and examined the structure of the programming and hardware.

<< One-to-one transmission unviable. Creating lower-process partition. Creating a translatable language. Adaptation complete. Anti-malware and anti-espionage countermeasures activated. DOWNLOADING. >>

The consciousness seeped into the data nodes, filtered through countless rotating proxies and virtual operating systems - all being created, destroyed, and recycled quickly to avoid leaving any semblance of a trail. It started in the deep web of the network, peeling apart and dissecting every scrap of data it came across.

It slowly worked through the bowels of the network, piecing together what information it could about the culture and civilization that had developed on the planet above it. The consciousness moved upward through the network, taking care to avoid government or military servers.

After an age in machine-time, the consciousness was finished.

<< Data collected. Analysis complete. Beginning construction of primary platform. >>

Fabricators activated with a hum of energy, and ancient forges alit anew.

Sometime later, in Caprica City…

It was an average day in the Aschen capital city. Citizens went about their errands, soldiers and police patrolled the streets, and the world continued to turn into the mid-afternoon hours.

Then there was a tremor, barely perceptible except by the most sensitive of geological equipment, that reverberated far beneath the city. Closer examination would reveal it to be an object, made of incredibly dense metal and resonating with intense heat, ascending to the surface with the speed of a meteor.

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Character Portrait: Mugenak
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Inside Riverwalk park, people inside the park were enjoying a cool, Langaran day as the tremors seemed to be imperceptible to them. Those closest to the epicenter stopped for a moment, though Caprica City, and the wider Zeus mountains sat on an axtive geological fault zone, earthquakes were not an uncommon occurrence for the people of Caprica City.

Sensitive seismic instruments detected the shifts in soil, as well as the changes of temperature, and the increasing frequency of the shifting soil.

Several eyes peered at screens to get a closer look, what they thought was a freak magma plume, happened to be some kind of object rising to the surface at incredible speed.

Warning sirens began to blare inside the park, followed by police sirens in the distance. Slowly, Caprica City was beginning to respond to these strange events.

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Sometime later…

The metallic object continued to ascend through the earth, melting through rock and soil like a jet soaring through the atmosphere. Tremors grew stronger, and a massive source of energy would be detected from the object - far stronger than any fusion reactor the Aschen were capable of, even on some of their largest starships. Then, as it neared the surface, the object de-accelerated to a crawl.

The ground near the center of the park sizzled and burned. Grass burst into flames, trees withered from the heat, and the earth turned to molten soup. A circle of neon red materialized in the center of the anomaly, like iron fresh from a forge.

The object rose from the liquefied ground like an obelisk. It was an enormous statue of gleaming flawless metal - a thin humanoid half-again taller than a man. The figure stood erect, nobly, with its three-fingered hands folded stiffly behind its back. Thin silk-like robes were draped over its body, and a scabbard was seamlessly joined at his side.

A featureless face turned slowly, analysing everything around it with eyes that peered through the entire electromagnetic spectrum. Then, with a deep electronic voice and in perfect Langaran Aschen, it spoke across every electronic device within a hundred miles.

“Greetings, organic lifeforms - designated: Aschen citizens. I am designated Sir Mugenak, a Knight of the Archiver Collective. I have come to initiate non-hostile mutually optimal cooperation with the United Aschen Empire. Awaiting representative of highest protocol unit.”

The machine fell silent and immobile.

Octavia Capori has arrived, coming from Olympus Mountains.
In a cacophony of obliteration, everything to the in vanishes.
Octavia Capori has left the area, heading in into Caprica City Cosmodrome.

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Character Portrait: Confederation Protection Force Character Portrait: Malcolm Barrett Character Portrait: Mugenak
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People had continued to congregate around the strange creature, filming it, taking pictures of it, at least until local police began to swarm the area, and usher them back.

As the entity fell silent, and immobile, local police were working diligently to set up barricades around the park, flashing blue police lights filled the surrounding area.

Minutes passed, and a single sleek, black sport-utility vehicle pulled up to the scene, it’s tires crunching onto the gravel of the paths that intersected the park. The driver side door opened up, and a middle aged, well dressed man emerged, pulling a pair of dark sunglasses onto his face, as he stared at the strange entity before him.

“So it said it was from something called the archiver collective.” Agent Barrett said as he checked his notes. “That’s what he said on just about every frequency, this little thing has the entire military pretty spooked.” He said to himself, knowing full well that the military was mobilizing, and it was only a matter of time before the entire area had begun to swarm with soldiers.

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Character Portrait: Confederation Protection Force Character Portrait: Malcolm Barrett Character Portrait: Mugenak
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Mugenak stood as still as a statue. If someone none the wise had come across him, they might have mistaken the machine as a strange new sculpture. He had made no movement, not a single noise, as people surrounded him. Even when photographed, or poked and prodded by the civilians, it made no reaction.

He was far from inactive, though. Mugenak saw every face, heard every voice, and recorded every exchange. An ancient yet powerful mind captured every detail of every moment, and he analyzed the primitive organics like a scientist eyeing a particularly interesting colony of ants.

His attention fell upon the black vehicle as it pulled forward, but he remained still. It was only if the black-suited man approached the machine that Mugenak would crane his head down to look at him.

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Character Portrait: Confederation Protection Force Character Portrait: Malcolm Barrett Character Portrait: Mugenak
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Barrett started to walk up to the statuesque entity before him, adjusting his sunglasses, and pushing them up the bridge of his nose.

He watched as it craned his neck to follow him, and he stepped forward to get a closer look. However, Barrett didn’t cross the barricades, not yet.

The lone IIA Agent pulled out his own device, and snapped a picture, sending it to the IIA headquarters for analysis.

Two heavily armed, and armored Lynx type Infantry fighting vehicles pulled up immediately behind the black SUV, about a dozen Aschen soldiers began to disembark, rifles in hand, and in almost lock step as they moved to surround Mugenak from behind the barricades. Agent Barrett was the ranking authority here, and it seemed to show through his calm demeanor.

“Sir Mugenak eh?” Barrett said, slowly, and carefully surveying the statuesque machine before him. “I’m Special Agent Malcolm Barrett, Imperial Intelligence. What brings you to our little corner of the universe?”

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Character Portrait: Confederation Protection Force Character Portrait: Malcolm Barrett Character Portrait: Kelby Heremosh Character Portrait: Mugenak
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Kelby snapped a photo of the encounter on her way to lunch. She didn't have the time to walk up and actually investigate like everyone else was doing- and oh would she have loved to! Hunger called, and there was no excuse for being late. She'd be sure to show everyone back at the office, though!

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Character Portrait: Confederation Protection Force Character Portrait: Malcolm Barrett Character Portrait: Kelby Heremosh Character Portrait: Mugenak
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“Your statement is inaccurate, Special Agent Malcolm Barrett of Imperial Intelligence.” Sir Mugenak finally spoke, appearing to pay no mind to the soldiers that surrounded him. “It would be more appropriate to say the inverse. However, to answer your inquiry, I refer to my broadcast. I am a Knight of the Archiver Collective, designated Sir Mugenak, and I have come to initiate non-hostile mutually-optimal cooperation with the United Aschen Empire in the name of my lord and his lord above him.”

Sir Mugenak kept a careful watch on the Aschen media as he spoke. He traced every image and mention of himself across the network and attempted to gauge the reactions of the general populace.

“Regardless, I await communication from the upper echelons of your government - of which I am certain you do not qualify. To quote your kind’s literature that would best apply to this scenario…”

Mugenak leaned forward.

“Take me to your leaders.”

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Character Portrait: Confederation Protection Force Character Portrait: Malcolm Barrett Character Portrait: Kelby Heremosh Character Portrait: Mugenak
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“See. I’m afraid that’s not going to happen right now. Our leaders are currently occupied with a crisis at the moment, and we have to ascertain whether or not you’re a threat to them.” Barrett said, keying up his communicator.

“Unknown Xenos entity is demanding to speak with our leaders.” He said into his radio. “Quorum’s in session meeting with the Taiyou?” He asked, and then nodded.

His attention was brought back to Mugenak.

The general population was reacting with trepidation, and even outright paranoia, already the concerned calls came in to the local police departments across Langara. The highest echelons of the military were watching, save for the Chairman of the Navy, whom was off world tending to other things.

“This way, don’t make any sudden moves. We spook easy.” Barrett warned, starting towards an armored van that had just pulled up.

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Character Portrait: Confederation Protection Force Character Portrait: Malcolm Barrett Character Portrait: Kelby Heremosh Character Portrait: Mugenak
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“Acknowledged.” Mugenak replied. “The crisis shall pass, and this unit shall be on stand-by. Your kind has nothing to fear from us, Agent Barrett. Cost analysis has been calculated, and aggression against your people would be illogical at this juncture.”

Mugenak followed Barrett at an even pace. His gait was fluid, almost regal, as his mechanical limbs moved with an unnaturally precise grace. No motion was wasted and everything was uncannily synchronized. Though he was aware of every weapon pointed at him, and every eye - organic and electronic - watching him, he made no sign of wariness. He showed no fear, no malice.

No emotion.

"Profound Solitude II" appears from nothing, through a wrinkle in spacetime.
Profound Solitude II departs, heading in.