Post by ingen on Mar 3, 2022 15:21:00 GMT
TATEYAMA STATION
Morioka Sakura watched in quiet pleasure as guests filtered in through the Path Of Celestial Ascension, the grand religious title for the manicured stairway that led down the side of the beautiful, stream-laced hill atop which sat the elevator through to the hangars on the exterior of the sphere.
They had been invited to celebrate the opening of the giant Tateyama, a Dyson Sphere which acted as a vast leyline and temple planet. Together with the huge reserves of platinum harvested during its excavation and construction, it was going to usher in a new, spiritual age in the Jade Empire. Or so was her hope.
The grounds were sprawling, a Temple of the Precept of Tradition surrounded by many outbuildings, gardens, ponds and copses of cherry and other trees. There was no music other than bowl song echoing gently through the grounds, but there was food aplenty and a troupe from the Precept of Grace were performing a noh play about the foundation of the First Jade Dynasty, layered through with self-reflective comedy.
Morioka smiled at the passing diplomats, greeting some she knew, resplendent in her bright yellow robes...
-
Zilphia rolled her eyes, flipping her phone back and into her pocket.
“Called it,” an assistant said, looking at her expression.
“It's the prince, of course he's not going to want to socialize. I think he hates me anyway, so pshh.”
The Executive Diplomat, Second in Command to Gilitim, looked at the immaculate ‘temple’. She hesitated in wanting to call it that, because she knew more than one of her security and staff being Katisians, and did not want to start a fist fight on her first real assignment. The Asian Woman had short, wavy hair, and a fully tailored suit, the black coat on a gray shirt matched the blacked out Limousines and SUV’s in the 8 or so car Convoy as it pulled up to the… mansion. That felt better.
Pulling up on the Mansion, the convoy came to an exacting stop, as more men and women in suits jumped out, forming a quick perimeter in perfect cadence. There were around 40 Security total, 20 of them being Purple Berets, seen from their purple pins on their hearts. All wore fully blacked out shades, and stone cold faces.
As an Agent pulled open the door, Zilphia stepped out as well, her own pair of shades on. She stopped for a moment, taking in the exquisite countryside and mansion around her. She took the shades off, flicking them with her left hand, and handing them to an assistant who already had his hand out.
“Why do you do that Ma’am..” the assistant said as he slid the shades into a courier bag, everyone waiting as the rest of the agents formed around the Envoy.
“Because its cool as fuck.” Zilphia responded, putting her hand over her mouth as she turned back to the assistant to ward off the perceptive lip-reader.
She turned back, and walked up the beautiful staircases. The agents around her walked in almost perfect unison, step after step in perfect synchrony.
Arriving at the top, a few of the diplomatic staff and photographers split off to do their own things, Zilphia was intent on wandering around and taking in the scenery for the first few minutes. She was a sucker for sight-seeing, but also was intent on letting people come to her as she looked over to see a play, most of which seemed to go over her head, but she did understand some parts from the crash course in jade history she got beforehand.
Nevertheless, at some point she would have to be more proactive, but for now she was content for wandering around and taking in the place as the party warmed up...
-
"Remember Councilor, this meeting is simply one to show face and support. No reason for anything to get too serious."
Andrev Balinsti, the current Chairman of the Kepler government riding out the last year of his term, said to Elihui Holdt, the other Councilor and the current minority leader, who was accompanying him to this international event. They were riding in the back of a limosine making some last second clothing adjustments with two plainclothed gaurds and three other aides busy getting suitcases ready for the day.
"I know, I know. There could be much more important things to do than sitting around for some dinner, the whole Population Revitalization Program getting over its roadblocks for example."
Balinsti looked over at Elihui as he adjusted his white cravat, "If you ever want to run for this job and enter the big leagues of politics outside of normal day by day work, a good part of it is buttering stuff up. I would of thought the Minority leader would know this by now."
"We should be stopping soon sirs." One of the aides said to them as they paused their conversation and the limosine stopped on the road next to the gate. The seven of them stopped out and took in the view of this artifically made landscape of Tateyama and the other..... more militaristic details.
"Seems like we came a little undermanned." Balinsti chuckled at the sight of the small forty man detail that the Empyra brought along as they followed up the stairs.
"I take it they came overstaffed." Elihui replied to the Chairman as they reached the top and Sakura waiting for them. As they came too, it was customary for Balinsti to make the introductions.
"Chairman Andrev Balinsti, and Councilor Elihui Holdt, from Kepler. I'd like to thank you for sending the invitation our way, quite far from the Killian Verge." He bowed before making the introduction to Morioka.
-
As the limosines passed,two creatures could be seen walking towards the ingenious temple. One was pitch black,with several tendrils dragging along the ground from the stem it called a lower body alongside a vast cape. The other was more diminutive,sheathed in white and dark red robes with a trio of horns resembling some kind of tiara and pointy shoulderpads encrusted with gems
Are you certain this was a good idea? uttered,Naz'kid,looking down at her fellow lithorian as her cape dragged across the ground
"I know we have a certain relationship with the guests,but that is precisely why we need to attend. This could be a chance for us to ease tensions before any more escalation occurs" replied Uq'eik,hands pressed together and covered by the sleeves of his robes as he walked alongside his partner
The two aliens continued arguing,eventually coming to the foot of the stairway
It seems other parties came with quite the retinues. Perhaps we should have followed suit she said,bringing a bladed finger to her chin as the lithorian's eight scarlet eyes stared up at the other attendants ascending the stairway
"Nonsense,we can handle ourselves just fine. Besides,the two of us are quite enough for them dare I say,we wouldn't wish to cause a scene. Nevertheless you should be on your best behaviour,I've studied yokari architecture and this is undeniably a place of worship" the plates making up Uq'eiks face shifted and chittered,enforcing his point
Noted. As for the other guests. I believe some of them are from the Coalition of Kepler,I recognize their wears Naz'kid inquired,her two top horns vibrating for a moment
"You know of them? That is.....surprising"
I came across them during my incursion into the Junkyard she said,earning a look of concern from Uq'eik
The first one,it was the first one
"Ah,I see. You should have been more clear. Why not go to them then? I'll see who the other ones are"
The two aliens ascended the steps quickly,splitting and heading for the kepler and empyrians respectively
-
An aide straightened his collar, and Caltreth eyed his reflection before nodding. Squaring his shoulders, he led his group down the staircase, making their way over to the main area, before several split off to talk to other bureaucrats or collect refreshments. Walking over to the priestess, he inclined his head in respect.
"Your Excellency, thank your for the invitation. I am Caltreth Iorskel, and this- " here he gestured and a young woman stepped forward, dressed in similar colors to him, blue and white. "Is my daughter and heir, Emmaria. Our thanks for the invitation and your hospitality."
-
Exiting from a limousine can be seen 5 Men who are presumably Novakian Diplomats, all in expensive Tuxedos and a Briefcase on one hand they all wouldlook at the temple as they had just arrive at the location where the supposed event would take place. All seem to have arrived later than usual and are looking at the temple.
"This place is gorgeous isn't it?"
"Yeah, sounds perfect for a banquette of sorts. But are you sure this is a good idea?"
"Well it's too late to decide now, all we have to do is to climb up the stairs and see what's on the other side. Besides, we aren't here only for the meals."
"I've heard that several times already. All we have to do now is get good relations with whoever's attending this place and hopefully get several trade deals if possible and to not make a fool of ourselves while were in this place. We do not want to embarrass our nation to others in this galaxy"
The group talked, before climbing up the stairs to the temples entrance. Greeting Morioka in the process with respect. At the top the group would began to look around, probably looking at the other diplomats as they came in too.
The 4 men, Phene Johnson, Alexi Kuznetsov, Karl Watson and Alex Jones were top diplomats from the Novakian Federation, perhaps the best of the best even. While they were diplomats they are also Novakian Civil war veterans and had several years of military experience under their belt. But would that matter will remain unanswered.
"There seems to be more than we we're expecting"
"There's no need to worry, the more the merrier. There's now a chance that we can strike several trade deals from several nations if we wanted to with the various representatives from other alien nations all at this place"
"We if we are good enough to do all of that atleast, there's a possibly that we all might've aswell leave empty handed"
"That's just a possibility, but should do as we were supposed to do and not screw thing up badly. That should be easy enough"
"Besides, we probably have all night to do this, or until the visitors start leaving that is"
The diplomats said as they had a small conversation between themselves, not knowing whether not they would ever meet others just like them at the venue.
-
Sakura bowed her head gently to the Keplerites, a nation known in passing to the Ingenious, having fought alongside one another once or twice against the Coronans and having a healthy enough trade relationship. MADE IN KEPLER was a common stamp found on hydroponics equipment throughout the Sanrin colonies and even beyond now.
"You are most welcome, Chairman, Councilor," replied Morioka in the mildly resonant voice of the yokari, her accent barely noticeable. "I am glad to see representatives of Kepler here, in this blessed space."
Before she could ask any follow-up questions, the High Imperium diplomat made himself known. Sakura knew little of the High Imperium other than the odd newscast about their distant activities, but Caltreth did nothing to dispel any of her preconceptions.
"You are welcome, both. Thank you for coming on this joyful day." she said, again inclining her head. "How fares the High Imperium?"
In the background, a rolling drum heralded the start of a noh play on a low wooden stage in front of which were laid out mats and benches. Two dragons, one green and one black, played by four actors each carrying a giant puppet over their heads, entered from opposite sides and began bellowing at each other in Ingenious.
-
Zilphia turned her head to the play, staring straight at it as the rest of her entourage slowly disseminated into the crowd. In reality, Zilphia was consuming a stupid amount of information through her implant and eyes. Positions of other delegations was plotted, names flied by as the perspectives of other Envoys in the palace fed their own view into a database, and it was all mushed together into a pile of data, filtered, and brought into Zilphias view. She was used to getting fed data, but this was almost nauseating. As she stared at the play, she was considering her next step.
“The High Imperium is close to the Union, I see a stepping stone there Ma’am.” a voice in her right ear said.
“Thats fucking stupid, we dont want the first person you talk to being some war-criminals.” her left ear piped up in response.
“I dunno, everyone looks like a war criminal here man.” retorted right ear.
Zilphia rolled her eyes, turning on her heel now. She tapped her temple, minimizing the amount of data going into her head, a small relief. The rest of her entourage turned as well, calmly following the diplomat. Cutting through the crowd respectfully, she made her way to the Novakian Delegation. As she obviously approached, the Novakians had 15 seconds before zilphia got within earshot. At first glance, the Human face and similar suit and tie attire made her seem a little more familiar than the rest of the aliens and non-humans around.
Nodding in a tone of respect but power, Zilphia entered the conversation.
“The Novakian Federation, A pleasure to meet you all!” Zilphia entered cheerily, clasping her hands with a light clap. She decided against putting her hand out for a handshake, as she was not certain yet which one was senior.
“I’m Zilphia Baxdisi, Imperial Vires of Empyria Diplomatic Service. It's good to see some slightly friendly faces around here, how has the party treated you all so far?”
-
Naz'kids lower half silently slid against the fine floor as she closed in on one of the conversations springing up.
She gave a small look of attention to the performance that had just started before eyeing the representatives intently. Jade,Kepler and High imperium,certainly not the best nations when it came to relations.
She cursed under her breath,the silver tongued Uq'eik would have been a much better choice for this.
Nevertheless,she gathered her courage and approached the party,eyes fixed on Sakura.
I am Naz'kid of the Lithorian Collective. Thank you for inviting us to this event,your kindness supersedes most
The large creature bent as she said this,the back at a complete ninety degree angle with one arm bent inwards,leaving part of her cape to hang from it to the floor. Some kind of couteous gesture no doubt,if only a bit extreme. This certainly said something about the society these lithorians hailed from.
Uq'eik meanwhile had just eyed another crowd of guests as they gathered near him. Novakians and Empyreans,good,he had done his homework well. The latter interested him most,being very close to the lithorian's own budding sphere of influence. Nevertheless,the latter would prove a valued contact,especially given the uncertainty of their other connections in the region.
In spite of wanting to join in,the alien chose against it. They hadn't even shaken hands yet,barging in would be impolite. His faceplates chittered and scraped against one another as he sat,patiently waiting for a better window of opportunity in their discussion
-
"I appreciate your aquaintance, Jushoko, we'll probably see you later down there."
Balinsti replied back with an off the cuff and draw response to their host, not really in that much of a formal tone that he was common with anyways in the scale of Keplerite international politicking. Elihui followed along and did not talk as the two of them and their tiny support staff went down to the main hall of the banquet.
"Picking up on your Ingenious, ey Chairman?" Elihui said to Balinsti once they cleared the main group and the performers started their dragon dance. It was good for him atleast as a potential successor in the next elections to see such a wide variety of people and nations represented here, a good place for introductions and internationalizing his face.
"Just a bit. Get some drinks Watch this, lets go make some introductions shall we." Balintsi saw the congregation between the IVE and Novakin parties and headed over to them. Meanwhile, Elihui swiped two cocktails off of a Yokari server making the rounds for the both of them.
"Banquets going well won't you say? Andrev Balinsti, Chairman of the Coaliton of Kepler."
The Keplerite Chairman said to Zilphia and the Novakin diplomats as he tried to make his way into the conversation and offered out a hand for a handshake. Elihui got back with two tall cocktails and passed one up to Balinsti. He tried to ignore the fact that out of the corner of his eye he saw a passing High Imperium diplomat.
-
As Andrev obviously turned to meet the Novakovians and the Empyrian, there was a sudden break from the ebb and flow of the crowd as a few of the blacked out suits looked at the chairman. They slowly began to collapse to Andrev, taking 3ish slow steps before seemingly being called off , turning around and organically blending back into the crowd. Zilphia turned on a dime, a well-rehearsed smile already loaded-
“Mr. Balansti, a pleasure to meet you!” Zilphia said, shaking Andrevs hand softly.
“Banquets going well, I love the music. A Kepler from so far away is a good sight to see, who’s your neighbor’s again-” Zilphia snapped, pulling the words out of her brain- “The High Imperium is it?”
-
"And to you too, Ziliphia is it? I say you are far flung from your own homeland too."
He had overheard her name earlier as they were on the floor of the party, and Balinsti noted that the IVE diplomat tried to trip him up with a clearly loaded question on the HI, likely wanting to warrant a rise out of him. Balinsti adjusted the tightly fastened cravat around his neck and replied back to Ziliphia.
"Well my own neighbor is a farmer that has a vertical greenhouse several miles away, though if you are talking about the nation I represent, then yes. The High Imperium is one of our many neighbors."
Elihui looked at the guards who tried to approach the Chairman funnily but did not act on it.
-
Zilphia for just a second, had the burning sensation to absolutely hardball the poor sod in front of her. A million traps fell into her head in half a second, and then remembering, Gilitim told her to not create enemies on her first visit. She reluctantly accepted Gilitims order.
Zilphia smirked, obviously entertained by Balinsti;
"Zilphia actually, not Ziliphia, Empyrian Centric Names are normally suffixed by an ia or ian, but there is a few other variations. The Catch ili is actually common, but not in my name at least. Sadly in and around the Capitol, the only neighbors I get are billionare tech wizzes or whomever else I stumble by - good for networking, but not so much for getting a good grasp of the people, good you have that though."
-
The Novakian Diplomats would turn around and look at Zilphia as she entered the conversation. "Hello, I am Karl Watson. Senior Diplomat of the Novakian Federation. We are certainly happy to see you."
"And I am Phene Johnson, Also a Senior Diplomat of the Novakian Federation, Its nice to see familiar faces over here" Both replied as they each take a turn to shake Zilphia's hand
"Well for once the Party has treated us well, at least for now i think though it has been nice to see some familiar races here rather than your standard monolithic Intimidator or some little green men walking here and there. I never thought I'd see another human race outside the Novakian Federation."
"its nice that this whole meeting hasn't Devolve into a hot mess yet, or at least anyways" Karl Watson said Jokingly towards Phene Johnson
"You can blame those Purple Balls of Glowing Death for that one, and also why we haven't attempt contact with the wider galaxy until now." He replied back
As Karl and Phene engages in a diplomatic talk with the Empyrian Diplomat the rest would the focus on the other Kepler Diplomat that had just arrived onto the conversation.
"Alexi Kutzetsov, Senior Diplomat of the Novakian Federation. The banquets going well, Liked the atmosphere and generally the feeling of it all"
"Alex johnson, Also a Diplomatof the Novakian Federation. Quite Nice to see another one of the same species here over here"* Both said as they accepted the offer as they each took a turn to shake Balinsti's hand.
"Its quite unusual for the leader of his own nation to show up on this kind of event to us atleast. Too much of a risk to get Assassinated while in deep space don't you think? but anyways its a pleasure to meet you. Hows the Banquet going on your side?" Alexi asked
-
Sakura smiled off the Keplerites as they headed further into the event, just as an inhuman alien with an almost startling appearance approached. Sakura was placid by nature, however, and simply offered a beatific smile as the alien introduced itself as Naz'kid, a lithorian. Ingen had had little experience with the Lithorians, though from time to time a trader or tourist of that unusual species had found their way into Jade territory.
Nevertheless she offered a shallow bow in reply. "You honour us by attending, Naz'kid. Welcome. It is quite the voyage from Lithorian territory, if I remember correctly?"
Behind them, the Noh play continued - the two dragons had given up on yelling and were engaged in an elaborate battle, swirling around one another as monks hidden against the backdrop cast minor cantrips to give the illusion of fiery blasts of dragon energy.
-
Zilphia turned back to the two Novakians, nodding in agreement;
"Well, while I honestly dont care wether someone is Human or not, but nevertheless it is good to be talking to someone I dont need a translator implant for!
Other then that, while we wait, tell me about the Federation, I read the news and the blurbs the rest of the nonsense my entourage gives me, but I would like to know whats going on on a more personal view."
-
Balinsti shook his hands with Alex and looked him dead in the eyes while doing so. The comment about assassination threw him a bit and made Elihui, who stood off to the side with a cocktail in hand look over at them weird.
"A good leader is willing to do all of the outreach they can do internationally. There is no risk of assassination or danger here, the Jade take their security very seriously. Enjoy the banquet and loosen up a bit, as for us; It's going fairly well, we only just got here a few minutes ago"
Balinsti replied back to Alex while holding his hand in a vice grip like shake until he finished talking. Elihui took a sip of his cocktail and added onto Zilphia's comments.
"Quite a bit more non-humans in the galaxy than humans, best to get used to them."
-
The alien stood up once more,looking down at the host,dissecting her response carefully
Indeed,the journey from the austral zone is long but we have our ways of contending with it. Alas,how fares the Empire of Ingen in the uncertain times we find ourselves in? she asked the yokari,tilting her head slightly
Uq'eik meanwhile sat down at one of the bars in the area,continuing the skim the conversation of the humans with his keen senses before an ingenious attendant brought him a drink.
His eyes narrowed at the keplerite's statement on aliens,recognizing a prime time to introduce himself. He sat up,leaving a generous tip of ingen yen to the bartender,something he had acquired precisely for this occasion.
With hidden haste,the lithorian approached the congregation,fancy beverage in hand as he spoke
"Excuse me,have you happened to see anyone unusual around here? Tall,dark,red eyes and many a pair of horns on their head to be more precise. We attended this banquet together yet I just can't seem to figure out where they've run off to" he remarked,meticulously mixing his sugary drink with one of the straws granted just prior
-
"Well, atleast we have something in common to share, but nonetheless its also good to not have to always use a translator whenever speaking with someone else." Karl Watson replied.
"As for the Novakian Federation i will spare you some details but in a nutshell it is a Federation consisting of several sectors and autonomous star systems which all have the freedom to govern how they like as long as they can conform to federation laws to hopefully avoid internal conflicts from forming. something we have learned the hard way several years ago" Phene said before continuing
"But depending on whatever news source you got the information for the Novakian Federation, things can vary between from what i have said just now to 'Its a Capitalist nation who is extremely corrupt and extremely militaristic' for some reason, but most of them are all outdated. maybe they got said info while were all fighting a massive war i don't know, its all a little confusing with some jargon involved. all that said is if you like to get more information for the Federation you can visit it if you'd want to" Karl then said to Ziphilia as Phene finishes his sentence.
"We will, just as always." Alex Replied to Bastiline
"There's quite a lot of them. And they all came in very different forms, all of them are different in every way. Also they are almost everywhere you can go to, whether it'd be next door neighbours or someone who has come from the other side of the galaxy just for them to stumble onto your territory." Kuznetsov replied towards Bastiline before turning towards Ziphilia
-
Sakura offered another of her beatific smiles. The real answer would be that the Jade Empire was struggling. The completion of this station had put a drain on its finances, and whilst she was supremely confident that a new golden age was about to begin, the realities were that Ingen was stuck fighting an exhausting war against the sinister agents of Corruption, a war which threatened to break apart the very fabric of Jade society, whilst around it the Unaligned grew in power even as the Colonials squabbled among themselves. The Gauss Dominion, a friendly power and strong trade partner, had disintegrated practically overnight and the Jade people needed faith now more than ever.
She said none of this aloud, however.
"The Jade Empire prospers, and the completion of the Tateyama promises to usher in a new age of blissful consonance with the Far. How fare the Lithorians?"
-
Naz'kid titled her head at Sakura's response. While she knew not of Ingen's internal affairs,she found her host's statement rather dubious given the international situation at play. Her infectious smile and lack of details did not help the credibility either. Alas,the lithorian would not pry further,not wishing to create bad opinions
That is excellent,let us hope the current trend continues then she said,her glowing eyes narrowing slightly
As for us....well she placed one hand below her chin,mostly thinking of which developments would be safe to reveal
Our collective blossoms like never before! Our race spreads far and wide,wether by our direct action or immigration to other nations,spurred on by The Almighty's indomitable will. Relations are excellent,our natural riches generate great amounts of revenue,only amplified by our latest engineering project.
Not all is "sunshine and rainbows" as you say,there are threats and enemies. A certain lithoid race and some vermin come to mind,yet I am certain we will remedy such impediments sooner rather than later. Ultimately,joining the galactic community has been the greatest development in our history. To think there were such opportunities just outside the Austral Expanse,if only we had the means to reach out sooner.....
Tragically,it was not to be the alien's gaze shifted over Sakura's shoulder,growing empty,almost remorseful for but a moment. Composure won out in the end,the lithorian blinking quickly before her attention returned
Of course,that simply means we have to make up for lost time. With any luck,our relationship will be a prosperous and mutually beneficial one
-
Zilphia nodded in acknowledgment of the Novakians and Balansti, shifting her weight to a leg in a confident yet not overbearing stance.
"Well, with all of that in mind and introductions out of the way, I'm assuming you folks might want to get down to brass tax, Can I take your guys' Space E-mails or whatever is used here, or do ya'll have something specific in mind you came here for-"
In the back of Zilphias head, a small ping stoped her mid sentence as one of the surrounding Empyrians noticed the approaching lithorian. Zilphia brought a finger up in a "hold on one second" move.
Zilphia turned on a dime to meet Uq'eik straight in the eyes she hoped, giving him a respectful nod and responding like she would to any other human, albiet with a little more respect, wanting to not kick off a conversation with a remark that might be interpreted negatively;
"I think I heard someone talk about someone matching that description-" Zilphia looked at the direction of the entrance, even though a crowd was in the way,
"Yes, I think that they are that way, one of my journalist friends is idling over there, not sure what they are doing exactly, but I think they are that way." Zilphia turned back to the new person joining the circle now, turning her curious gaze back into the trademark expression of a empathetic diplomat.
"I haven't caught your name by the way, I'm Zilphia, Delegation of Empyria."
-
"Well then, I guess we all know what we all came here for, and I suppose we can provide you with our Space E-mails. " Karl Watson said as he wrote down his and Phene's Email Address pr whatever its Novakian equivalent are into a piece of paper, to which he then handled it over towards Zilphia.
As she stopped and looked at the lithorian diplomat both Karl and Phene looked at each other, before walking towards Alex and Kuznetsov as to check on their progress on things, and to wait for Zilphia to finish dealing with the Lithoran diplomat.
-
Sakura was no politician, and was not sure who the Lithorian was referring to, but she did not need telling that the galaxy was a strange and dangerous place. Although Naz'Kid was an otherworldly and alien figure, she spoke of trade and mutual friendship just the same as any other alien, and even of the spread of her own people. Perhaps, if the Lithorians were so open to dialogue, they would find fertile fields for Jade Shinto, or at least co-operation for the Precept of Wisdom.
"I hope so. It is a pity that not all the peoples of the galaxy desire harmonious co-existence, but we must live in the times we find. Perhaps one day we will see Lithorian scholars here to learn from the monks and priests of the Huoming Temple." she said, gesturing at the elegant towers and complexes that dotted the misted landscape.
-
The creature continued to analyze Sakura's visage and dissect her words with utmost care,just as before. She came to the conclusion that the soul before her was an innocent one,whether or not that was good for someone of high rank was something she doubted. Nevertheless she turned with the yokari's gesture and took in the elegant architecture of the place,even she could appreciate that. While the thought of lithorians converting to this 'Shinto' was doubtful,perhaps almost laughable to Naz'kid, there was always value in learning the philosophical outlook of others,something plenty of her kin were very aware of
"Perhaps indeed. Even if such a day never comes,it never hurts to assimilate the teachings of others" she replied,eyes half closed as she spoke
"But maybe this can be a start. Please,tell me of this belief you hold"
Uq'eik was caught off guard by the empyrean turning so swiftly and without warning,coming to the conclusion that her attendants must have informed her non verbally,not unlike how he would with his own kind
"Ah,I see. Thank you for the directions,I hope you and your fellows enjoy yourselves" he said,bowing briefly before starting to make his way to the supposed journalist as he waded through the crowd,taking a sip of his drink as he did so
-
The rest of the evening passed uneventfully, with Sakura giving a brief speech thanking the guests before giving way to a fireworks display put on by Creation adept monks. The festivities lasted until the artificial dawn, although many guests had turned in or gone home. In the beautiful gardens, pristine pagodas and dew-laden pathways, the remaining guests chatted, laughed, danced and ate, until eventually the last of them had gone and a perfect silence hung over the complex once more, disturbed only by the gentle sweeping sound of acolytes cleaning the sleek flagstone courtyards and the morningsong of birds.
Sakura had not slept. She sat beneath a cherry tree on a small foothill near the Temple of the Precept of Tradition, eyes almost shut, letting her breathing settle as she took in the serenity of the place. It had been an auspicious opening.
Morioka Sakura watched in quiet pleasure as guests filtered in through the Path Of Celestial Ascension, the grand religious title for the manicured stairway that led down the side of the beautiful, stream-laced hill atop which sat the elevator through to the hangars on the exterior of the sphere.
They had been invited to celebrate the opening of the giant Tateyama, a Dyson Sphere which acted as a vast leyline and temple planet. Together with the huge reserves of platinum harvested during its excavation and construction, it was going to usher in a new, spiritual age in the Jade Empire. Or so was her hope.
The grounds were sprawling, a Temple of the Precept of Tradition surrounded by many outbuildings, gardens, ponds and copses of cherry and other trees. There was no music other than bowl song echoing gently through the grounds, but there was food aplenty and a troupe from the Precept of Grace were performing a noh play about the foundation of the First Jade Dynasty, layered through with self-reflective comedy.
Morioka smiled at the passing diplomats, greeting some she knew, resplendent in her bright yellow robes...
-
Zilphia rolled her eyes, flipping her phone back and into her pocket.
“Called it,” an assistant said, looking at her expression.
“It's the prince, of course he's not going to want to socialize. I think he hates me anyway, so pshh.”
The Executive Diplomat, Second in Command to Gilitim, looked at the immaculate ‘temple’. She hesitated in wanting to call it that, because she knew more than one of her security and staff being Katisians, and did not want to start a fist fight on her first real assignment. The Asian Woman had short, wavy hair, and a fully tailored suit, the black coat on a gray shirt matched the blacked out Limousines and SUV’s in the 8 or so car Convoy as it pulled up to the… mansion. That felt better.
Pulling up on the Mansion, the convoy came to an exacting stop, as more men and women in suits jumped out, forming a quick perimeter in perfect cadence. There were around 40 Security total, 20 of them being Purple Berets, seen from their purple pins on their hearts. All wore fully blacked out shades, and stone cold faces.
As an Agent pulled open the door, Zilphia stepped out as well, her own pair of shades on. She stopped for a moment, taking in the exquisite countryside and mansion around her. She took the shades off, flicking them with her left hand, and handing them to an assistant who already had his hand out.
“Why do you do that Ma’am..” the assistant said as he slid the shades into a courier bag, everyone waiting as the rest of the agents formed around the Envoy.
“Because its cool as fuck.” Zilphia responded, putting her hand over her mouth as she turned back to the assistant to ward off the perceptive lip-reader.
She turned back, and walked up the beautiful staircases. The agents around her walked in almost perfect unison, step after step in perfect synchrony.
Arriving at the top, a few of the diplomatic staff and photographers split off to do their own things, Zilphia was intent on wandering around and taking in the scenery for the first few minutes. She was a sucker for sight-seeing, but also was intent on letting people come to her as she looked over to see a play, most of which seemed to go over her head, but she did understand some parts from the crash course in jade history she got beforehand.
Nevertheless, at some point she would have to be more proactive, but for now she was content for wandering around and taking in the place as the party warmed up...
-
"Remember Councilor, this meeting is simply one to show face and support. No reason for anything to get too serious."
Andrev Balinsti, the current Chairman of the Kepler government riding out the last year of his term, said to Elihui Holdt, the other Councilor and the current minority leader, who was accompanying him to this international event. They were riding in the back of a limosine making some last second clothing adjustments with two plainclothed gaurds and three other aides busy getting suitcases ready for the day.
"I know, I know. There could be much more important things to do than sitting around for some dinner, the whole Population Revitalization Program getting over its roadblocks for example."
Balinsti looked over at Elihui as he adjusted his white cravat, "If you ever want to run for this job and enter the big leagues of politics outside of normal day by day work, a good part of it is buttering stuff up. I would of thought the Minority leader would know this by now."
"We should be stopping soon sirs." One of the aides said to them as they paused their conversation and the limosine stopped on the road next to the gate. The seven of them stopped out and took in the view of this artifically made landscape of Tateyama and the other..... more militaristic details.
"Seems like we came a little undermanned." Balinsti chuckled at the sight of the small forty man detail that the Empyra brought along as they followed up the stairs.
"I take it they came overstaffed." Elihui replied to the Chairman as they reached the top and Sakura waiting for them. As they came too, it was customary for Balinsti to make the introductions.
"Chairman Andrev Balinsti, and Councilor Elihui Holdt, from Kepler. I'd like to thank you for sending the invitation our way, quite far from the Killian Verge." He bowed before making the introduction to Morioka.
-
As the limosines passed,two creatures could be seen walking towards the ingenious temple. One was pitch black,with several tendrils dragging along the ground from the stem it called a lower body alongside a vast cape. The other was more diminutive,sheathed in white and dark red robes with a trio of horns resembling some kind of tiara and pointy shoulderpads encrusted with gems
Are you certain this was a good idea? uttered,Naz'kid,looking down at her fellow lithorian as her cape dragged across the ground
"I know we have a certain relationship with the guests,but that is precisely why we need to attend. This could be a chance for us to ease tensions before any more escalation occurs" replied Uq'eik,hands pressed together and covered by the sleeves of his robes as he walked alongside his partner
The two aliens continued arguing,eventually coming to the foot of the stairway
It seems other parties came with quite the retinues. Perhaps we should have followed suit she said,bringing a bladed finger to her chin as the lithorian's eight scarlet eyes stared up at the other attendants ascending the stairway
"Nonsense,we can handle ourselves just fine. Besides,the two of us are quite enough for them dare I say,we wouldn't wish to cause a scene. Nevertheless you should be on your best behaviour,I've studied yokari architecture and this is undeniably a place of worship" the plates making up Uq'eiks face shifted and chittered,enforcing his point
Noted. As for the other guests. I believe some of them are from the Coalition of Kepler,I recognize their wears Naz'kid inquired,her two top horns vibrating for a moment
"You know of them? That is.....surprising"
I came across them during my incursion into the Junkyard she said,earning a look of concern from Uq'eik
The first one,it was the first one
"Ah,I see. You should have been more clear. Why not go to them then? I'll see who the other ones are"
The two aliens ascended the steps quickly,splitting and heading for the kepler and empyrians respectively
-
An aide straightened his collar, and Caltreth eyed his reflection before nodding. Squaring his shoulders, he led his group down the staircase, making their way over to the main area, before several split off to talk to other bureaucrats or collect refreshments. Walking over to the priestess, he inclined his head in respect.
"Your Excellency, thank your for the invitation. I am Caltreth Iorskel, and this- " here he gestured and a young woman stepped forward, dressed in similar colors to him, blue and white. "Is my daughter and heir, Emmaria. Our thanks for the invitation and your hospitality."
-
Exiting from a limousine can be seen 5 Men who are presumably Novakian Diplomats, all in expensive Tuxedos and a Briefcase on one hand they all wouldlook at the temple as they had just arrive at the location where the supposed event would take place. All seem to have arrived later than usual and are looking at the temple.
"This place is gorgeous isn't it?"
"Yeah, sounds perfect for a banquette of sorts. But are you sure this is a good idea?"
"Well it's too late to decide now, all we have to do is to climb up the stairs and see what's on the other side. Besides, we aren't here only for the meals."
"I've heard that several times already. All we have to do now is get good relations with whoever's attending this place and hopefully get several trade deals if possible and to not make a fool of ourselves while were in this place. We do not want to embarrass our nation to others in this galaxy"
The group talked, before climbing up the stairs to the temples entrance. Greeting Morioka in the process with respect. At the top the group would began to look around, probably looking at the other diplomats as they came in too.
The 4 men, Phene Johnson, Alexi Kuznetsov, Karl Watson and Alex Jones were top diplomats from the Novakian Federation, perhaps the best of the best even. While they were diplomats they are also Novakian Civil war veterans and had several years of military experience under their belt. But would that matter will remain unanswered.
"There seems to be more than we we're expecting"
"There's no need to worry, the more the merrier. There's now a chance that we can strike several trade deals from several nations if we wanted to with the various representatives from other alien nations all at this place"
"We if we are good enough to do all of that atleast, there's a possibly that we all might've aswell leave empty handed"
"That's just a possibility, but should do as we were supposed to do and not screw thing up badly. That should be easy enough"
"Besides, we probably have all night to do this, or until the visitors start leaving that is"
The diplomats said as they had a small conversation between themselves, not knowing whether not they would ever meet others just like them at the venue.
-
Sakura bowed her head gently to the Keplerites, a nation known in passing to the Ingenious, having fought alongside one another once or twice against the Coronans and having a healthy enough trade relationship. MADE IN KEPLER was a common stamp found on hydroponics equipment throughout the Sanrin colonies and even beyond now.
"You are most welcome, Chairman, Councilor," replied Morioka in the mildly resonant voice of the yokari, her accent barely noticeable. "I am glad to see representatives of Kepler here, in this blessed space."
Before she could ask any follow-up questions, the High Imperium diplomat made himself known. Sakura knew little of the High Imperium other than the odd newscast about their distant activities, but Caltreth did nothing to dispel any of her preconceptions.
"You are welcome, both. Thank you for coming on this joyful day." she said, again inclining her head. "How fares the High Imperium?"
In the background, a rolling drum heralded the start of a noh play on a low wooden stage in front of which were laid out mats and benches. Two dragons, one green and one black, played by four actors each carrying a giant puppet over their heads, entered from opposite sides and began bellowing at each other in Ingenious.
-
Zilphia turned her head to the play, staring straight at it as the rest of her entourage slowly disseminated into the crowd. In reality, Zilphia was consuming a stupid amount of information through her implant and eyes. Positions of other delegations was plotted, names flied by as the perspectives of other Envoys in the palace fed their own view into a database, and it was all mushed together into a pile of data, filtered, and brought into Zilphias view. She was used to getting fed data, but this was almost nauseating. As she stared at the play, she was considering her next step.
“The High Imperium is close to the Union, I see a stepping stone there Ma’am.” a voice in her right ear said.
“Thats fucking stupid, we dont want the first person you talk to being some war-criminals.” her left ear piped up in response.
“I dunno, everyone looks like a war criminal here man.” retorted right ear.
Zilphia rolled her eyes, turning on her heel now. She tapped her temple, minimizing the amount of data going into her head, a small relief. The rest of her entourage turned as well, calmly following the diplomat. Cutting through the crowd respectfully, she made her way to the Novakian Delegation. As she obviously approached, the Novakians had 15 seconds before zilphia got within earshot. At first glance, the Human face and similar suit and tie attire made her seem a little more familiar than the rest of the aliens and non-humans around.
Nodding in a tone of respect but power, Zilphia entered the conversation.
“The Novakian Federation, A pleasure to meet you all!” Zilphia entered cheerily, clasping her hands with a light clap. She decided against putting her hand out for a handshake, as she was not certain yet which one was senior.
“I’m Zilphia Baxdisi, Imperial Vires of Empyria Diplomatic Service. It's good to see some slightly friendly faces around here, how has the party treated you all so far?”
-
Naz'kids lower half silently slid against the fine floor as she closed in on one of the conversations springing up.
She gave a small look of attention to the performance that had just started before eyeing the representatives intently. Jade,Kepler and High imperium,certainly not the best nations when it came to relations.
She cursed under her breath,the silver tongued Uq'eik would have been a much better choice for this.
Nevertheless,she gathered her courage and approached the party,eyes fixed on Sakura.
I am Naz'kid of the Lithorian Collective. Thank you for inviting us to this event,your kindness supersedes most
The large creature bent as she said this,the back at a complete ninety degree angle with one arm bent inwards,leaving part of her cape to hang from it to the floor. Some kind of couteous gesture no doubt,if only a bit extreme. This certainly said something about the society these lithorians hailed from.
Uq'eik meanwhile had just eyed another crowd of guests as they gathered near him. Novakians and Empyreans,good,he had done his homework well. The latter interested him most,being very close to the lithorian's own budding sphere of influence. Nevertheless,the latter would prove a valued contact,especially given the uncertainty of their other connections in the region.
In spite of wanting to join in,the alien chose against it. They hadn't even shaken hands yet,barging in would be impolite. His faceplates chittered and scraped against one another as he sat,patiently waiting for a better window of opportunity in their discussion
-
"I appreciate your aquaintance, Jushoko, we'll probably see you later down there."
Balinsti replied back with an off the cuff and draw response to their host, not really in that much of a formal tone that he was common with anyways in the scale of Keplerite international politicking. Elihui followed along and did not talk as the two of them and their tiny support staff went down to the main hall of the banquet.
"Picking up on your Ingenious, ey Chairman?" Elihui said to Balinsti once they cleared the main group and the performers started their dragon dance. It was good for him atleast as a potential successor in the next elections to see such a wide variety of people and nations represented here, a good place for introductions and internationalizing his face.
"Just a bit. Get some drinks Watch this, lets go make some introductions shall we." Balintsi saw the congregation between the IVE and Novakin parties and headed over to them. Meanwhile, Elihui swiped two cocktails off of a Yokari server making the rounds for the both of them.
"Banquets going well won't you say? Andrev Balinsti, Chairman of the Coaliton of Kepler."
The Keplerite Chairman said to Zilphia and the Novakin diplomats as he tried to make his way into the conversation and offered out a hand for a handshake. Elihui got back with two tall cocktails and passed one up to Balinsti. He tried to ignore the fact that out of the corner of his eye he saw a passing High Imperium diplomat.
-
As Andrev obviously turned to meet the Novakovians and the Empyrian, there was a sudden break from the ebb and flow of the crowd as a few of the blacked out suits looked at the chairman. They slowly began to collapse to Andrev, taking 3ish slow steps before seemingly being called off , turning around and organically blending back into the crowd. Zilphia turned on a dime, a well-rehearsed smile already loaded-
“Mr. Balansti, a pleasure to meet you!” Zilphia said, shaking Andrevs hand softly.
“Banquets going well, I love the music. A Kepler from so far away is a good sight to see, who’s your neighbor’s again-” Zilphia snapped, pulling the words out of her brain- “The High Imperium is it?”
-
"And to you too, Ziliphia is it? I say you are far flung from your own homeland too."
He had overheard her name earlier as they were on the floor of the party, and Balinsti noted that the IVE diplomat tried to trip him up with a clearly loaded question on the HI, likely wanting to warrant a rise out of him. Balinsti adjusted the tightly fastened cravat around his neck and replied back to Ziliphia.
"Well my own neighbor is a farmer that has a vertical greenhouse several miles away, though if you are talking about the nation I represent, then yes. The High Imperium is one of our many neighbors."
Elihui looked at the guards who tried to approach the Chairman funnily but did not act on it.
-
Zilphia for just a second, had the burning sensation to absolutely hardball the poor sod in front of her. A million traps fell into her head in half a second, and then remembering, Gilitim told her to not create enemies on her first visit. She reluctantly accepted Gilitims order.
Zilphia smirked, obviously entertained by Balinsti;
"Zilphia actually, not Ziliphia, Empyrian Centric Names are normally suffixed by an ia or ian, but there is a few other variations. The Catch ili is actually common, but not in my name at least. Sadly in and around the Capitol, the only neighbors I get are billionare tech wizzes or whomever else I stumble by - good for networking, but not so much for getting a good grasp of the people, good you have that though."
-
The Novakian Diplomats would turn around and look at Zilphia as she entered the conversation. "Hello, I am Karl Watson. Senior Diplomat of the Novakian Federation. We are certainly happy to see you."
"And I am Phene Johnson, Also a Senior Diplomat of the Novakian Federation, Its nice to see familiar faces over here" Both replied as they each take a turn to shake Zilphia's hand
"Well for once the Party has treated us well, at least for now i think though it has been nice to see some familiar races here rather than your standard monolithic Intimidator or some little green men walking here and there. I never thought I'd see another human race outside the Novakian Federation."
"its nice that this whole meeting hasn't Devolve into a hot mess yet, or at least anyways" Karl Watson said Jokingly towards Phene Johnson
"You can blame those Purple Balls of Glowing Death for that one, and also why we haven't attempt contact with the wider galaxy until now." He replied back
As Karl and Phene engages in a diplomatic talk with the Empyrian Diplomat the rest would the focus on the other Kepler Diplomat that had just arrived onto the conversation.
"Alexi Kutzetsov, Senior Diplomat of the Novakian Federation. The banquets going well, Liked the atmosphere and generally the feeling of it all"
"Alex johnson, Also a Diplomatof the Novakian Federation. Quite Nice to see another one of the same species here over here"* Both said as they accepted the offer as they each took a turn to shake Balinsti's hand.
"Its quite unusual for the leader of his own nation to show up on this kind of event to us atleast. Too much of a risk to get Assassinated while in deep space don't you think? but anyways its a pleasure to meet you. Hows the Banquet going on your side?" Alexi asked
-
Sakura smiled off the Keplerites as they headed further into the event, just as an inhuman alien with an almost startling appearance approached. Sakura was placid by nature, however, and simply offered a beatific smile as the alien introduced itself as Naz'kid, a lithorian. Ingen had had little experience with the Lithorians, though from time to time a trader or tourist of that unusual species had found their way into Jade territory.
Nevertheless she offered a shallow bow in reply. "You honour us by attending, Naz'kid. Welcome. It is quite the voyage from Lithorian territory, if I remember correctly?"
Behind them, the Noh play continued - the two dragons had given up on yelling and were engaged in an elaborate battle, swirling around one another as monks hidden against the backdrop cast minor cantrips to give the illusion of fiery blasts of dragon energy.
-
Zilphia turned back to the two Novakians, nodding in agreement;
"Well, while I honestly dont care wether someone is Human or not, but nevertheless it is good to be talking to someone I dont need a translator implant for!
Other then that, while we wait, tell me about the Federation, I read the news and the blurbs the rest of the nonsense my entourage gives me, but I would like to know whats going on on a more personal view."
-
Balinsti shook his hands with Alex and looked him dead in the eyes while doing so. The comment about assassination threw him a bit and made Elihui, who stood off to the side with a cocktail in hand look over at them weird.
"A good leader is willing to do all of the outreach they can do internationally. There is no risk of assassination or danger here, the Jade take their security very seriously. Enjoy the banquet and loosen up a bit, as for us; It's going fairly well, we only just got here a few minutes ago"
Balinsti replied back to Alex while holding his hand in a vice grip like shake until he finished talking. Elihui took a sip of his cocktail and added onto Zilphia's comments.
"Quite a bit more non-humans in the galaxy than humans, best to get used to them."
-
The alien stood up once more,looking down at the host,dissecting her response carefully
Indeed,the journey from the austral zone is long but we have our ways of contending with it. Alas,how fares the Empire of Ingen in the uncertain times we find ourselves in? she asked the yokari,tilting her head slightly
Uq'eik meanwhile sat down at one of the bars in the area,continuing the skim the conversation of the humans with his keen senses before an ingenious attendant brought him a drink.
His eyes narrowed at the keplerite's statement on aliens,recognizing a prime time to introduce himself. He sat up,leaving a generous tip of ingen yen to the bartender,something he had acquired precisely for this occasion.
With hidden haste,the lithorian approached the congregation,fancy beverage in hand as he spoke
"Excuse me,have you happened to see anyone unusual around here? Tall,dark,red eyes and many a pair of horns on their head to be more precise. We attended this banquet together yet I just can't seem to figure out where they've run off to" he remarked,meticulously mixing his sugary drink with one of the straws granted just prior
-
"Well, atleast we have something in common to share, but nonetheless its also good to not have to always use a translator whenever speaking with someone else." Karl Watson replied.
"As for the Novakian Federation i will spare you some details but in a nutshell it is a Federation consisting of several sectors and autonomous star systems which all have the freedom to govern how they like as long as they can conform to federation laws to hopefully avoid internal conflicts from forming. something we have learned the hard way several years ago" Phene said before continuing
"But depending on whatever news source you got the information for the Novakian Federation, things can vary between from what i have said just now to 'Its a Capitalist nation who is extremely corrupt and extremely militaristic' for some reason, but most of them are all outdated. maybe they got said info while were all fighting a massive war i don't know, its all a little confusing with some jargon involved. all that said is if you like to get more information for the Federation you can visit it if you'd want to" Karl then said to Ziphilia as Phene finishes his sentence.
"We will, just as always." Alex Replied to Bastiline
"There's quite a lot of them. And they all came in very different forms, all of them are different in every way. Also they are almost everywhere you can go to, whether it'd be next door neighbours or someone who has come from the other side of the galaxy just for them to stumble onto your territory." Kuznetsov replied towards Bastiline before turning towards Ziphilia
-
Sakura offered another of her beatific smiles. The real answer would be that the Jade Empire was struggling. The completion of this station had put a drain on its finances, and whilst she was supremely confident that a new golden age was about to begin, the realities were that Ingen was stuck fighting an exhausting war against the sinister agents of Corruption, a war which threatened to break apart the very fabric of Jade society, whilst around it the Unaligned grew in power even as the Colonials squabbled among themselves. The Gauss Dominion, a friendly power and strong trade partner, had disintegrated practically overnight and the Jade people needed faith now more than ever.
She said none of this aloud, however.
"The Jade Empire prospers, and the completion of the Tateyama promises to usher in a new age of blissful consonance with the Far. How fare the Lithorians?"
-
Naz'kid titled her head at Sakura's response. While she knew not of Ingen's internal affairs,she found her host's statement rather dubious given the international situation at play. Her infectious smile and lack of details did not help the credibility either. Alas,the lithorian would not pry further,not wishing to create bad opinions
That is excellent,let us hope the current trend continues then she said,her glowing eyes narrowing slightly
As for us....well she placed one hand below her chin,mostly thinking of which developments would be safe to reveal
Our collective blossoms like never before! Our race spreads far and wide,wether by our direct action or immigration to other nations,spurred on by The Almighty's indomitable will. Relations are excellent,our natural riches generate great amounts of revenue,only amplified by our latest engineering project.
Not all is "sunshine and rainbows" as you say,there are threats and enemies. A certain lithoid race and some vermin come to mind,yet I am certain we will remedy such impediments sooner rather than later. Ultimately,joining the galactic community has been the greatest development in our history. To think there were such opportunities just outside the Austral Expanse,if only we had the means to reach out sooner.....
Tragically,it was not to be the alien's gaze shifted over Sakura's shoulder,growing empty,almost remorseful for but a moment. Composure won out in the end,the lithorian blinking quickly before her attention returned
Of course,that simply means we have to make up for lost time. With any luck,our relationship will be a prosperous and mutually beneficial one
-
Zilphia nodded in acknowledgment of the Novakians and Balansti, shifting her weight to a leg in a confident yet not overbearing stance.
"Well, with all of that in mind and introductions out of the way, I'm assuming you folks might want to get down to brass tax, Can I take your guys' Space E-mails or whatever is used here, or do ya'll have something specific in mind you came here for-"
In the back of Zilphias head, a small ping stoped her mid sentence as one of the surrounding Empyrians noticed the approaching lithorian. Zilphia brought a finger up in a "hold on one second" move.
Zilphia turned on a dime to meet Uq'eik straight in the eyes she hoped, giving him a respectful nod and responding like she would to any other human, albiet with a little more respect, wanting to not kick off a conversation with a remark that might be interpreted negatively;
"I think I heard someone talk about someone matching that description-" Zilphia looked at the direction of the entrance, even though a crowd was in the way,
"Yes, I think that they are that way, one of my journalist friends is idling over there, not sure what they are doing exactly, but I think they are that way." Zilphia turned back to the new person joining the circle now, turning her curious gaze back into the trademark expression of a empathetic diplomat.
"I haven't caught your name by the way, I'm Zilphia, Delegation of Empyria."
-
"Well then, I guess we all know what we all came here for, and I suppose we can provide you with our Space E-mails. " Karl Watson said as he wrote down his and Phene's Email Address pr whatever its Novakian equivalent are into a piece of paper, to which he then handled it over towards Zilphia.
As she stopped and looked at the lithorian diplomat both Karl and Phene looked at each other, before walking towards Alex and Kuznetsov as to check on their progress on things, and to wait for Zilphia to finish dealing with the Lithoran diplomat.
-
Sakura was no politician, and was not sure who the Lithorian was referring to, but she did not need telling that the galaxy was a strange and dangerous place. Although Naz'Kid was an otherworldly and alien figure, she spoke of trade and mutual friendship just the same as any other alien, and even of the spread of her own people. Perhaps, if the Lithorians were so open to dialogue, they would find fertile fields for Jade Shinto, or at least co-operation for the Precept of Wisdom.
"I hope so. It is a pity that not all the peoples of the galaxy desire harmonious co-existence, but we must live in the times we find. Perhaps one day we will see Lithorian scholars here to learn from the monks and priests of the Huoming Temple." she said, gesturing at the elegant towers and complexes that dotted the misted landscape.
-
The creature continued to analyze Sakura's visage and dissect her words with utmost care,just as before. She came to the conclusion that the soul before her was an innocent one,whether or not that was good for someone of high rank was something she doubted. Nevertheless she turned with the yokari's gesture and took in the elegant architecture of the place,even she could appreciate that. While the thought of lithorians converting to this 'Shinto' was doubtful,perhaps almost laughable to Naz'kid, there was always value in learning the philosophical outlook of others,something plenty of her kin were very aware of
"Perhaps indeed. Even if such a day never comes,it never hurts to assimilate the teachings of others" she replied,eyes half closed as she spoke
"But maybe this can be a start. Please,tell me of this belief you hold"
Uq'eik was caught off guard by the empyrean turning so swiftly and without warning,coming to the conclusion that her attendants must have informed her non verbally,not unlike how he would with his own kind
"Ah,I see. Thank you for the directions,I hope you and your fellows enjoy yourselves" he said,bowing briefly before starting to make his way to the supposed journalist as he waded through the crowd,taking a sip of his drink as he did so
-
The rest of the evening passed uneventfully, with Sakura giving a brief speech thanking the guests before giving way to a fireworks display put on by Creation adept monks. The festivities lasted until the artificial dawn, although many guests had turned in or gone home. In the beautiful gardens, pristine pagodas and dew-laden pathways, the remaining guests chatted, laughed, danced and ate, until eventually the last of them had gone and a perfect silence hung over the complex once more, disturbed only by the gentle sweeping sound of acolytes cleaning the sleek flagstone courtyards and the morningsong of birds.
Sakura had not slept. She sat beneath a cherry tree on a small foothill near the Temple of the Precept of Tradition, eyes almost shut, letting her breathing settle as she took in the serenity of the place. It had been an auspicious opening.