Post by EmperorMyric on Mar 21, 2021 19:58:48 GMT
While the war raged abroad, with casualties counted by the thousands in every galactic news report, the AGA and the APP seemed to find only temporary victories. The two powers plied the armies of their constituents against each other bringing about casualties and losses of materials at a rate not seen since the First Galactic War. The galactic news and internet was rife with reports of massacres and suffering, to which the average citizen so detached from the events might simply have turned the page hoping to find something entertaining in the form of a scandal involving a galactic celebrity. But the war and its depravity is just a backdrop; a means of framing one event that would have been easy enough to miss. Most of the galaxy was so preoccupied with the war and the politics of chaos that the stage was set for something significant to occur in the one fully peaceful region left untouched by the war. Deep within the region of space known as the Avarian Frontier or as some took to calling it the Western Expanse, a meeting is about to occur.
Dominion Convoy operations were a straightforward affair; something seen as essential and yet lacking somehow the glory of the frontline despite the greater risks due to the long voyages required. Convoy 237S moved along a projected route towards it’s next juncture in what was thought to be unclaimed space intentionally avoiding navigational hazards, and probable ambush points. The destination of the group was give or take core-ward with no less than a dozen stops between here and there. Overall the convoy consisted of thirty-six vessels. Eight of the vessels were ‘longneck’ freighters each no less than fifteen-hundred meters long each while the rest were comprised of six extended transport style freighters and twelve short cargo freighters, mostly of tramp freighter styling a final two seemed to be retrofitted for on-the-go agricultural production. Overall the group was as mixed as one could be but then the only uniformity present were the six Passaic Class frigates and two Waring class destroyers attached to the group for escort duty. The convoy had to briefly pause to calculate the next jump on their course as synchronizing the drives of this many ships took a certain level of coordination. Not far from the Dominion convoy another group of vessels drew closer; the Divine Davian Empire had begun long-range patrols as a matter of military border security and this patrol was just one of many operating at range for threats and to keep the trade lanes clear. Due to the dangerous nature of long range patrol, the Davian high command decided that the composition of long-range patrol groups would be comprehensive. As a result of this decision the patrol flotillas had to be rather large and fast, often numbering no less than twenty-two vessels most of which were warships. The Davian patrol group in this instance consisted of fifteen Chuong Duong class Heavy Destroyers, three Bach Dang class Battle Cruisers, two Thang Long class Carriers and two supply ships. Upon arrival, the Davian patrol group began an immediate active scan of the system while allowing their faster-than-light drives cool down. "Large group of unknown ships spotted." The SAIs of the commanding Bach Dang Cruiser announced: "Initiating passive scan for IFF data. Identity verified, those vessels hail from the Risallas Dominion, comrade commander."</I> The captain breathed a sigh of relief as the signal contact had thirty-six signatures, and the Davians would have been badly outnumbered if they had been hostile contacts. "That’s good, what kind of vessels are they?” The SAI responded to the captain’s query with a combination of holographic images based on sensor scans and IFF data to support the images. The information revealed that there were only six warships attached to a freighter convoy, this was clearly a trade group. “Hail them and send our regards.”
Unknown to both parties however, a third set of vessels would emerge nearby, on any other day this would not be remarkable as it patrols, and trade convoys tended to meet and conduct business at random intervals along trade routes. On the edge on a system near TDA claimed territory the TDASV Frontier Spirit emerged gracefully from its wormhole. It was finally setting out to explore systems outside of claimed territory for the first time. Everyone involved was filled with excitement and anxiety as they set out further into space. “Captain, wormhole dissipation complete and our corvettes are beginning the detachment progress.” The operations commander said sternly. “Good, have combat patrol set up we don’t want any surprises while we sit here for the next few weeks.” Captain Marco said plainly. “Captain, we have contacts throughout the system.” An ensign said with nervousness in her voice. “What do you mean by contacts, ensign?” Marco said cautiously looking over the shoulder of the ensign at the scanner terminal. “XO, take us to Sabre two and get Alexander up here, we either have first contact or a fight on our hands and I need to know which one it is.” Marco said with some nervousness in his voice that was starting to show. The XO went to the ship PA system played the announcement tune, and then sounded the alarm. The ship was filled with the sounds of claxons bearing and the same announcement over and over again. “Action stations, Action stations set ship condition to Sabre two this is not a drill, Action Stations, Action stations.” The ship’s crews ran frantically but in an orderly fashion throughout the ship, getting on their uniforms, equipment and the like. Shields were raised, weapons were manned but not charged up and pilots manned their fighters and sat anxiously inside the launch tubes. Denise Alexander was the on-board government official for exploration fleet one, she spent most her days relaxing and talking to crew as for the past few months she sat around in complete boredom. Today was different she was woken up by first the deafening sound of the action stations alarm and then an ensign gingerly telling her that she is needed on the bridge. When she heard that a jolt of excitement shot through her. Quickly she became decent and reported to the bridge. “Captain, what’s the situation.” She said with a commanding tone. “We, uh, have two groups of contacts, one with thirty-six signatures and the other with twenty-two signatures both are of unknown origin and their IFFs don’t register.” Marco said a little intimidated. “I didn’t want to try and make contact without you here… so there’s no miscommunications.” Marco stammered on his words. “Alright, we’ll send them a message all a message and get this straightened out.” She smiled smacking Marco on the back as she walked over to the communications terminal. “Attention all, we are the Three Domains Alliance here on a mission of exploration, if you can understand this send a return message of who you are and your intentions.” She said politely but sternly “Alright now we wait for a return message.” She said with a smile to Marco who had a look of concern on his face. “Lighten up Captain, if get into any real trouble we can just leave.” Alexander said with a more comforting tone to the clearly stressed captain.
Meanwhile he Dominion convoy was caught mid-way in its jump calculations when the familiar signature of Davian vessels appeared on the sensor sweep of one of the escorts. Since both nations often crossed paths due to the proximity of both in the western expanse these sorts of encounters were common enough to have a standard protocol. On the bridge of the RDAV – Vincent, Captain Dieron watched the sensor image of the Davian vessels as they maneuvered post FTL. “Signal the convoy, they can relax it’s just a long-range Davian patrol….”
The captain didn’t get to finish the statement before something else appeared on sensors from the near opposite direction of the Davian ships. Sensors painted an absolutely rough image of what the new arrivals were, much like they had for the Davians. Within the three-dimensional holographic display on the bridge of the Vincent both the Davians and the new arrivals initially appeared as off-white rectangles and with each successive sensor sweep the shapes took form finally rendering the appearance of the arrivals. The ships computers checked the ships against a known sensor profile database and failing that sensor silhouettes and then some additional criteria. This check took only a few seconds and refined as the Davian ships got closer finally producing a precise identification, but for the other signal contact the ships of the convoy were still attempting to identify. Captain Dieron didn’t need a computer to tell him that the new arrivals were unknowns, but in the best interest of playing it safe he ordered a text-only message sent to the Davian vessels in an encryption that they would be able to translate. <” Greetings to our friends the Davians, can you tell us if the new sensor contacts that just appeared at coordinates 123,31,43 are your vessels? They do not match any in our registry.”> As luck would have it, Captain Dieron didn’t have to wait for the answer from the Davians. A ensign operating one of the communications consoles spoke out. “Sir, the unidentified contacts have identified themselves, they say they are the ‘Three Domains Alliance’…they’re explorers and want to know our intentions, what should I say sir?” Captain Dieron didn’t miss a beat as he responded instinctively. ‘Tell them the following. We are a trade convoy hailing from the Risallas Dominion and were passing through. If we have trespassed on your territory we did not do so intentionally and will move to a position to respect your borders.’ The message was sent in the common language used in first contacts in the galaxy, Galactic Unicode.
Meanwhile aboard the Davian Command ship a similar scene was playing out in regards to the arrival of the TDA and their message. "New contact detected. Passive scanning initiated..." The Davian SAIs onboard the ships announced one after the other: "The Dominion convoy has replied to us using encrypted text…the new contacts do not belong to them. I recommend first contact protocol in this situation.” </I> The main SAI on the Davian command ship informed the commander before he could respond the SAI continued with an updated analysis
"The unknown contact has just identified itself as belonging to the Three Domains Alliance. It seems the Dominion is trying to hail them. What are your orders?" The commander considered for just a moment before issuing orders. "Take us to yellow alert, raise shields but do not power the weapons yet. We will also try to hail them." The Davian commander replied, foremost on his mind was the establishment of peaceful contact. After all the chances of finding another civilized species was fairly high based on prior encounters and these TDA people did not do anything hostile. "Reply to the Dominion using our encrypted text: < We confirm that those vessels do not belong to us and belong to another faction. We're attempting to make first contact with them. For mutual security allow our ships to join you Dominion friends.> "
He then turned to his communications officer: "Send this to the new contact: Greeting Three Domains Alliance we are the long-range patrol flotilla of Divine Davia Empire. We are on our regular patrol route. If we somehow ended up trespassing your territories then we want to deeply apologize and will withdraw from your claimed border if you desire it." The Davian commander then turned to one of his subordinates to give an additional set of orders. "Send a message to headquarters, they need to know we have found new nation and possibly very close to our border." A few heavily encrypted messages would be sent out of the system back to the Davian's space.
Alexander listened closely to the messages from the Dominion and the Davians as they were filtered through the translators. She was keeping an ear open for tones of voice and background noise to try and figure out if these people were friendly; even though they declared their intentions it never hurt to be a little bit cautious. After a few minutes, she put down the headset and walked towards Marco who was standing in the middle of the Command Information Center.
“Alright Captain, I think we can turn down the alert status we have a military patrol and a freighter convoy and I can’t detect anything that suggests that they could be hostile. So that also ultimately means this is a first contact situation.” She said enthusiastically Marco looked at her with a scrutinizing look. “Lower alert to Sabre 3 and re-dock the corvettes, I don’t want to leave anyone behind if this goes south.” Marco bellowed out orders through the command information center. “Alright so what’s the plan here Alexander, I’m a little out the loop for first contact protocols.” Moments later Alexander responded to the query. “Well its simple enough I ask them if they want to talk and have a meet and greet and we see if can’t hash out any new deals or agreements, but not before I make sure that they aren’t affiliated with you know who from back home.” She said excitedly. “Alright, I’ll get a ship prepped and have an escort team ready as well as assemble an honor guard in case they want to meet here, so you can handle the rest.” Marco said with some confidence returning to him. Alexander nodded before getting back onto the communications. “Hello fellow space travelers, firstly there is no need to change course as this is unclaimed territory and secondly since this is a first contact situation are you interested in siting down for the first diplomatic talks between our great nations?” She proclaimed with a little too much excitement.
The convoy had completed its synchronized jump calculations by the time the responses had come back from the Davians and the Three Domain Alliance. Thankfully it was a friendly contact in the case of the Three Domains Alliance, but this left a question of who wanted to take the lead in this first contact scenario. Given the often spartan nature of cargo freighters and their escorts Captain Dieron knew that it might negatively affect the meeting of nations if the meeting were to occur on just any vessel in his convoy, fortunately he had a few tramp freighters in his number and one had a passenger amenity module that as of the convoy’s stop before last was empty. While certainly not a match for the facilities provided on a large capitol warship, or a diplomatic vessel it would certainly be more adaptable to the needs of a previously unknown species and might increase the chances of a successful outcome. As a plus to this assessment, it might be a lot less ominous or threatening to use a freighter depending on what the cultural priorities are of this foreign species. Captain Dieron responded to the messages from the Davians and the TDA with two messages of his own; the first would be sent to the TDA and was kept short but polite. <‘We would prefer a meeting, we will move one of our freighters to a position of equal distance from all parties and our representative will be aboard to greet you when you send your representative over. We hope that this is the first of many productive encounters our peoples will have.’> Meanwhile the message sent to the Davians was a bit longer but it addressed the diplomatic plan and the proposal to link up the Davian fleet and the Dominion convoy. <‘To our friends the Davians, we have volunteered the use of one of our tramp freighters as a meeting place for this first contact event, it has a passenger module so amenities will be taken care of. We will move the RDAV – Alcon to a position that is equidistant from our three vessel groups so that our new guests don’t feel threatened or unwelcome. Once it is in position send your representatives there. Also, for the time being it may be best that our vessel groups appear as separate, these TDA folks may misinterpret any joining maneuvers as an act of aggression.’> As if on cue the RDAV-Alcon slowly broke formation and moved gingerly to a position that was dead in the middle ground between all three nation's respective ships. The vessel was clearly a modular freighter that had been outfitted for passenger transport and currently seemed to have its shields down and its weapons unpowered as a sign of diplomatic faith. Upon receiving the message from the other two fleets. The Davian commander though for a moment before ordering his flotilla to stop where they are and keep their distant from the other fleet and the RDAV -Alcon. While mutual defensive was necessary, making the new contact feel threaten would be a bad move. As the Dominion's freighter positioned itself at the right distant, a small shuttle escorted by a pair of star fighters moved out of the Davian's leading battle cruiser and headed toward it. At the same times two messages would be sent. One toward the Three Domains Alliance which said: "Greeting again Three Domains Alliance fellow. We Davian too are interest in making new contact and establish diplomatic links with your people. As the Dominion suggested, we are sending our diplomats to their freighter. It would be our great honor to meet you there." The second text message would be sent toward the Dominion convoy: <We agree with your cause of action Dominion friends. The flotilla will keep our distant and our diplomats will arrive shortly.> Few moments later the Davian ships received a single maximum encrypted text message, it said: <The sector command approved your suggestion to establish diplomatic relation with the new faction. If something goes wrong you will have reinforcement.> Alexander and Marco watched one the tactical display several ships moved about. The Davians sent three ships towards the designated freighter where the talks would take place. This left Marco feeling uneasy, the whole situation was new to him after all he was a rookie captain who only got his post because of massive gaps in the chain of command. He turned to Alexander. “How do you want to go about this? Should we send escorts as well or just the transport by itself?” he said nervously considering the risks of the operation. Alexander took a moment to think before she collected her thoughts. “I think just the transport by itself will be fine, one first contact with another nation Hans Crove went by himself onto an alien ship and walked away with so many beneficial deals. So maybe we can learn from his example.” She said positively to try and assure Marco that things would work out fine. “Alright, I’ll get on communications and tell HQ, I’ll ask to have 2EF put on standby just in case we need help.” Alexander gave a nod to Marco and left the CIC, she walked down to the hanger where her shuttle was awaiting as well as a squad of marines assigned to protection duty. The shuttle was launched into the void and preceded to the designated ship. Alexander killed the time by talking and joking with the marines about what these new people may look like or how they might act.
As the respective parties drew closer to the Dominion’s Tramp Freighter they might realize that this vessel despite being a freighter was well taken care of. In contract to the other freighters in the group it looked relatively new with few signs of the normal rough service a freighter asset that might see a half century of use should have. This wasn’t a suspicious detail though as any basic scan of the vessel’s IFF data would reveal that it’s registry indicated it had been launched less than a year ago. Flight control would guide the arriving shuttles and their escorts to docking bays on opposite sides of a centrally mounted module which was designed to receive personal pleasure craft and yachts*, despite its intent it was easily able to accommodate the shuttles sent by the Davians and the TDA. Flight Control gave relatively simplistic landing instructions which were aided by holographic guides and enough illumination and sensor reflecting to make the arrival of the foreign craft as easy as a simple planetary runway landing in favorable conditions. Once landed the arrivals would find that the docking bays were heavily automated, and impeccably orderly which might stand in utter contrast to how normal starship landing bays were maintained. The bay itself actually ran through the width of the Module and each landed shuttle and its fighters were settled on a turntable of sorts that after the parties disembarked would rotate the craft for lift off using the same point of entry as the Davians and the TDA had landed in opposite ends of the same bay. Once the bay was pressurized a green lamp over the central waking path of the bay lit confirming along with flight control that it was safe to disembark. Moments after single representative from the Dominion entered the bay flanked by eight security personnel who took positions along the walls, their stance was non-threatening as though it was standard procedure to have a small cadre of objective force infantry present. The sole Dominion representative waited patiently for the two parties to disembark and orient themselves.
The three Davian vessels smoothly docked themselves without difficulty. The ramp from the shuttle lowed to allow its passengers to disembark. Coincidently the representative of the empire would be commissar Tan, the very same officer who made first contact with the Risallas Dominion, the commissar would be flanked by an adjutant and a winged SAI. Those officers would be escorted by two human musketeers and two winged Shiguran warriors. "Greeting representative of the Risallas Dominion friends. I'm commissar Tan of the Davian Long Range Patrol Flotilla." The Davian group saluted. "We were chosen to represent the Divine Davian Empire for this diplomatic mission. Let's wait for our new friends and hope we will have a smooth first contact." Alexander was waiting eagerly at the shuttle door; its slow descent onto the hanger floor was almost torture. Once it was secured in place her Marine escort comprising of a single squad of ten exited first and stood at attention on either side of the ramp. Alexander then walked down looking professional and in control where in her mind she was too excited for such an occasion. She gave the squad leader a nod and the marines went at ease and broke formation, they then stood in a circle where they quietly exchanged money for bets lost on how the aliens would look. Alexander all alone without her escorts walked over to the two people who seemed to be conversing. “Hello, I’m Denise Alexander official representative of the Three Domains Alliance, attached to Exploration fleet one; it is a marvelous occasion that our great nations have met here today and I hope we can establish a strong relationship between our peoples.” She said enthusiastically. Now her excitement turned to anxiousness, she hoped it would go smoothly.
* In this case a Yacht is a shuttle designed for civilian use and is effectively a large shuttle aimed at comfort and such.
The individual waiting for both parties on the central walkway was humanoid, but not precisely human, where one might expect a single pair of eyes there were two luminescent eyes and offset above and below an additional pair of simple eyes. A rebreather mask covered the representative’s mouth and nose, and what were presumably intake and exhaust lines ran to a cylinder worn over the back. With each breath and exhalation where was a slight whisper which was low enough to be noted but not loud enough to be distracting. It was highly likely neither the Davians or the TDA had ever met an Atrean, as they were completely unable to leave their home world until they met the Dominion. The representative was dressed in a Dominion military uniform, and if at least the Davians who had dealings with the Dominion before were observant they might notice that the representative was of at least Commander rank in the Navy. The representative politely nodded in response to Tan’s introduction but waited until the TDA representative introduced herself before saying anything as some species took offence if only one side of a meeting was spoken to in encounter like this. “Captain Dieron sends his greetings to both of your peoples. He would be here in person however, we thought it unwise to maneuver his ship so it could launch a shuttle as moving a warship might look like an act of aggression. I am Commander Imari Khatligo, and it is my task to see that our peoples come to a fruitful agreement. I welcome you aboard, and just beyond that door is a meeting room with full refreshments and accommodations.” With that Imari politely gestured towards the set of doors leading directly to the meeting room across a hallway. She looked at both of them the non-human one unsettled her a bit as she had not seen anything of the like before, but the human one she was sure that he could be easy to talk to although the title of commissar indicated a certain fanatical element that left her wondering. “Alright, before we go any further with diplomatic talks I need to ask a question. Have either of your nations been in contact or are associated with a nation known as the United Star Empire. Our mission is one of secrecy and I can’t continue talk unless I have a guarantee.” The seriousness in her voice taking over from the excitement.Commissar Tan was a bit surprised by two events. Firstly, the appearance of a new species specifically the Altrean in the rank of the Dominion, clearly he and his staffs would be some of the first Davian to meet this new species. Secondly would be the appearance and the rather strange question of the new Three Domains Alliance just in the first contact. Still being a commissar who received training in politics and diplomatic these little surprises wouldn't have hampered his ability. "Miss Alexander, I can be sure with you that Divine Davia Empire has never heard about the nation called United Star Empire. This is the first times we learned about said faction." After all, three persons were sat down in the meeting room.
Once the group was situated in the meeting room the Commander politely answered the question posed by the Three Domains Alliance representative. “As far as I know, the Dominion has not yet encountered this United Star Empire. Though judging from your tone, one could get the impression they are not friendly much less good neighbors. Unless they arrived in the galaxy rather recently, I can confirm that no nation by that name is shown on the common galactic map.” With a gesture, a holographic image of the common galaxy appeared indicating the information shown in the pre-union/dominion first contact era, albeit with some updates for other new nation’s borders added*. “If the Union of Worlds doesn’t document them then they simply have not been met yet. I think it is safe to say this United Star Empire isn’t even in the galaxy yet.” Alexander breathed a sigh of relief as she pulled out her holo-map device and placed it on the table and turned it on. On it appeared a map of the claimed space and systems of the TDA. She pointed at the lone star system on the map. “This is our current base of operations here in the Gorganos Prime system; currently we are building up civilian and military infrastructure to support populations here in this galaxy. If you want to reach us this is where you can do it, you can talk to my boss Director of Extra Galactic affairs Albert Tyldum, he’s really good and get you fixed up with just about anything you need. Also, our military is centered here under Fleet Admiral Chesterton.” She paused to take a breath and hoped she wasn’t talking too fast. “Here and now I’m authorized to set up just about any agreement with you, to get a strong start to our relationships.” She said with a smile, while waiting for their replies. Tan looked at the map provided by both Dominion and TDA before nodded at the hovering angel like robot which landed and opened its right palm. The robot's palm showed a holographic map of the galaxy according to the Davian map. The map included the border of claimed Davia territory and a single system dubbed simply as "Trade System": "Here Miss Alexander is our map. We Davian are currently trying to make a trade hub in this location. As we too are rather new to this galaxy and as you see, we didn't have a lot of information about it. I must say you are one of a few factions we have ever met here along with the Dominion." The commissar then smiled: "Still we Davian like to make new contact and according to your map, it's seemed our borders are pretty close to the other, isn't it? Anyway, to get start, may I ask you about your civilization? And what's the USE you mentioned before?"
“In terms of initial arrangements, I think a non-aggression pact would be the first logical step. The known nations of the western region of the galaxy have all agreed that we have no desire to engage in the level of conflict known in the eastern side of the galaxy and since there are a number of young nations it would be deleterious to even consider it.” Commander Khatligo retrieved a data pad from one of his pockets and taped a few commands into it to bring up the necessary terms and conditions of a normal international non-aggression pact. The document contained within was perhaps five pages long and contained what one might expect and clauses for being an accomplice to unwarranted military aggression, the use of criminal elements to cause monetary damages and even a clause regarding cyber warfare. Overall it was a short and sweet agreement that compromised neither party but made it clear that both parties were being treated as equals in the agreement. “I have the document ready for your viewing and approval.” With that Commander Khatligo offered the data device to Denise Alexander.
After looking over the terms and conditions of the NAP Alexander nodded her head in agreement as she finished reading it. “This is a good welcoming first step to good relations that the TDA can get behind consider it’s agreed upon.” She said happily before turning to face Commissar Tan to answer his questions. “So you want to know more about the TDA. Well firstly we’re a nation built upon the principles of democracy, forged through a great conflict known as the unification war. It was between our three founding planets: Tethannis Prime, New Taurus and Vela. What started this war was when the planetary Lords all wanted to expand their domains and all three wanted the same new system, it was during a time called the great collapse of the old Earth Star Empire so it was every planet for itself you see. This war went on for 25 years, during the end the soldiers on all sides decided to band together to over throw their Lords when they found out the true cause of the war. They returned home and lynched their Lords and all nobles on their planets as the civilians all cheered them on. After this event of freeing themselves from imperialist tyranny the came together to sign the Alliance Articles bring all planets under a single banner. Since then we knew only peace and prosperity. Up and till about 10 years ago when we came into contact with the United Star Empire.” She paused for a second and her expression changed from a prideful one to a grim one. “These days we are on the back foot of the war since… well everyone calls it the Meat Grinder of Liberty… that’s what it felt like there at the time too. We went on the offensive to reclaim systems that the USE had taken over, we were so outmatched but we pushed through and won… it didn’t feel like we won anything. I’ll tell you about the USE, they are not to be considered human they might walk and talk like us but they’re monsters.” She stopped herself before getting too emotional “But I digress; outside of a NAP would your nations be interested in a Free Trade Agreement to help expand our relationships in the future as well as aid each other economically?” she said going back to her usual happy tone of voice. As the commissar listened to Alexander's story, the Davian SAI made a fast scan on the received NAP between the Dominion and TDA. "It's a good history background Miss Alexander. We understand why your people did that. In the other hand, it's seems the policy and philosophy of your people is not in conflict with ours." Tan smiled while turning to the Dominion - TDA NAP: "Oh and I see the Dominion and TDA are signing NAP, we Davian would also want to enter NAP with your people. And yes we Davian are rather willing to trade, but before we are going to it, please allow me to take a look at the NAP first." It will take a few moments for the Davian to study and to prepare the NAP, thus commissar Tan used that used the opportunity to explain (very briefly) the history of the empire and its government. "Thank you for your waiting and sorry for taking your times Commander Khatligo, Miss Alexander. Here is the document for our NAP for your viewing and approval. Then we can go straight to the trading agreements." The commissar put a data pad on the table. The document would be somewhat similar to those of the Dominion with some differences including. <Does not allow any individual or entity to use the territories of a signatory as base to carry out hostile activities against the other signatories. Activities again the other signatories including but not limited to: military actions, spying, piracy, cybernetic warfare and criminal’s activity. Does not allow any individual or entity to recruit mercenaries, privateers or foreign legions to be use again the other signatories.>
The conversation detailing the character of nations between the Davians and the TDA did not go unnoticed by Commander Khatligo in fact while the terms of the NAP were being considered he offered a perspective of the Dominion for the TDA representative. “I think, the best way to describe the Risallas Dominion is to frame it with history. Our people set out as part of a military campaign in our home galaxy, our ancestors just a hundred years ago were part of a military colonization unit tasked with setting up a forward operations colony as a preparation to end the threat of the Anarchs in our home galaxy once and for all. We attempted to a cyclic wormhole to accelerate our rate of travel so we would arrive on destination roughly a year early, it turned out to be unstable and dumped us out here in this galaxy instead. While originally, we were part of the united Earth government we found quite quickly that the ideals of normal democracy and such would not function at all in the lawlessness of the Western fringe of this galaxy. The dominion has elements of a republic, with a strong meritocratic rule of law.” The commander paused to let that sink in before moving to a more personal frame of reference. “It is due to this that the Dominion is quite accepting of species that are not human as we do not look at what you are but what you have done and your potential to act. Personally speaking, if the dominion hadn’t encountered my people I suspect we would still be trapped on our home world. By that time, we had already suffered a few unwanted incursions from the self-proclaimed warlords in the galactic fringe. To have someone arrive who wasn’t out to exploit our world or our people but had the ability to honor their agreements and promises was a welcome change.” Tan smiled as the TDA official agreed with the NAP as he said: "I know it can be a bit boring as our NAP would be somewhat similar to the other. But unfortunately, these treaties are separated. However, with most of the known factions in this part of the galaxy having NAP with the other I personally think we can have something greater in the further. Anyway, ladies and gentlemen, is there anything you want to talk about before moving to the trade agreement?"
There were times when the job of a diplomat could be boring and reading over terms and conditions of documents that were essentially the same over and over was one of them. None the less Alexander kept her happy demeanour and pushed through the NAP document until the end. She gave a cheerful nod to Tan after she signed it. “This is excellent striking NAPs with not one but two nations is a very welcoming to the TDA. So I turn it back over to you gentlemen if you have any more to ask of me. The TDA is very generous at this time so almost nothing is off the table.” she said ecstatically
“Actually, now that you mention trade, during the first contact meeting between ourselves, the Singers of the void and the Union of Worlds, it was briefly proposed that nations in this region organize for the purposes of advancing our shared goals. Granted it’s been a while since that moment in time, and we were originally going to propose the ratification of such an arrangement at the end of our return trip now seems as good a time as any.” Commander Khatligo, with a few key strokes to his own data device wirelessly sent a copy of the Western Regional League agreement to both the Davian and TDA’s personal data devices. “This is what we’ve assembled so far, it covers trade, it has military options, and it covers sovereignty. Granted, I was tasked with making sure this agreement was legally air tight by the time of our return, I don’t think High command anticipated such a fortuitous meeting happening like what we have right now. I propose to each of you, this agreement for your nations individual consideration.”
Alexander was a little shocked at first, everything was going according to how she was trained and things seemed to be wrapping up, when the proposal of an alliance was brought to the table. For something to happen like this to so quickly, it was something very alien to the TDA. She looked through document several times over she nodded and turned to Commander Khatligo.
“This is a very interesting proposition indeed Commander. I’ll need to step outside the room momentarily, so I can speak with my superior.” She then excused herself from the table and walked outside where she got in contact with the Frontier Spirit who gave her a direct line to Headquarters. “This is Tyldum here, what’s the issue Denise.” He said gruffly as he half expected there to be some sort of diplomatic snafu. “Sir, I’ve had a proposition of an alliance handed to us. I know we have extremely free range with a number of political agreements but I was hoping for a second opinion.” She said with some nervousness as she sent the file over to Tyldum. He studied it for a few minutes and checked it for flaws and any hidden clauses, he was rather pleased with it after finding none. Actually, finding friends that would stand by the TDA would be a massive boost to moral, not just the soldiers and sailors but for the people as well. This isn’t something I can turn down without having a lot of regrets later on he thought. “Alright Denise, looks good I’ll give the go ahead and pass word up the grapevine. I think the president will have a heart attack when he hears that we have allies to count on, hell maybe he can re-elected after all.” Tyldum said with a chuckle before he ended the communication. Alexander sighed in relief before she walked back into the conference room and sat back down. “Alright, everyone’s happy with the agreement back at headquarters. So we will be signing in favor of this alliance. Hopefully this is the start of many more great things.” She said cheerfully as she signed the charter.
Commissar Tan and his staff looked through the document. He was of course a little surprise with the Dominion's idea, still his emotion would be kept in check: "Thank you for the data, Commander Khatligo. This proposal is no doubt very important and while Davian Commissar like me have wide authority to conduct diplomatic agreement, this type of agreement will need the attention of at least the sector's command. So allow me to step out for a moment to inform them." Tan respectfully explained as he and his aids politely stepped out of the meeting room and began contact with the sector's command. "Contact the Sector's command SAI, send them the document and inform them Commissar Tan of the Long Range Patrol Group need the attention of the sector commander." The communications officer responded to the orders in a curt polite voice. "I'm doing so sir." The winged SAI responded as it began to do what was told. Moment later a fairly large holographic screen popped up from the robot's right palm. "I was informed that you need my attention comrade Commissar Tan. So what do you have?" A figured popped up and asked. "Sir we're having new contact and they turned out to be near us. But more importantly the Dominion is inviting us all into an alliance. I've sent you the document." "Let me see..." Commissar Tan studied the document for a while before answered: "It's an interesting proposal. I'll agree with it personally and I believe the Grand Council will also agree. Beside I'll send you my electronic signature. Good job for securing an alliance for us comrade commissar." </I>"As your wish comrade commander." Tan saluted before walked back into the meeting room to rejoin the other parties. "Ladies and Gentlemen. Regarding the proposal of the alliance between our nations, I can confirm that the sector commander agreed to enter the alliance and has sent his electronic signature." Tan said as the winged SAI again opened its right's palm to allow a holographic screen to show the signature of Divine Davia Empire 19th Sector Commander: "With it I hereby Divine Davia Empire we will be signing in favor of the alliance."
“Well I would say that this is one of the most critical moments in the history of the western region. Since we were going to present this treaty upon return I already have the authorization to sign it also on behalf of the Dominion.” Commander Khatligo gestured towards his data device with an open hand and his palm facing down towards the device. The current version of the treaty in all instances had already updated with the two other representative’s signatures. With just a gesture Khatligo’s signature appeared in translated (galactic standard) text with an identifying barcode. “With that, we have now have just become the center of an organization that will benefit our peoples in the long run. As a first order of business, my convoy’s next stop is near the Singers of the Void’s territory. I think we may be able to convince them to sign on to this agreement since they are within the borders outlined. Which leaves one interesting bit of intelligence gleaned over the last few months or so.” Khatligo gestured with the same hand he used to sign and a holographic map appeared showing the rough locations of all conformed nations in the western reach and then two other objects of interest. “Simple passive radio telemetry indicates that in these two locations there are space-capable species that remain uncontacted…finding them and making first contact may be our first real objective we face as allies…”
This concludes the public recording of the events leading up to and during the first contact meeting between the Divine Davian Empire, Risallas Dominion and the Three Domains Alliance.
*For note this map would lack a position for the dominion and a few other western nations instead replacing them with first contact locations.
Dominion Convoy operations were a straightforward affair; something seen as essential and yet lacking somehow the glory of the frontline despite the greater risks due to the long voyages required. Convoy 237S moved along a projected route towards it’s next juncture in what was thought to be unclaimed space intentionally avoiding navigational hazards, and probable ambush points. The destination of the group was give or take core-ward with no less than a dozen stops between here and there. Overall the convoy consisted of thirty-six vessels. Eight of the vessels were ‘longneck’ freighters each no less than fifteen-hundred meters long each while the rest were comprised of six extended transport style freighters and twelve short cargo freighters, mostly of tramp freighter styling a final two seemed to be retrofitted for on-the-go agricultural production. Overall the group was as mixed as one could be but then the only uniformity present were the six Passaic Class frigates and two Waring class destroyers attached to the group for escort duty. The convoy had to briefly pause to calculate the next jump on their course as synchronizing the drives of this many ships took a certain level of coordination. Not far from the Dominion convoy another group of vessels drew closer; the Divine Davian Empire had begun long-range patrols as a matter of military border security and this patrol was just one of many operating at range for threats and to keep the trade lanes clear. Due to the dangerous nature of long range patrol, the Davian high command decided that the composition of long-range patrol groups would be comprehensive. As a result of this decision the patrol flotillas had to be rather large and fast, often numbering no less than twenty-two vessels most of which were warships. The Davian patrol group in this instance consisted of fifteen Chuong Duong class Heavy Destroyers, three Bach Dang class Battle Cruisers, two Thang Long class Carriers and two supply ships. Upon arrival, the Davian patrol group began an immediate active scan of the system while allowing their faster-than-light drives cool down. "Large group of unknown ships spotted." The SAIs of the commanding Bach Dang Cruiser announced: "Initiating passive scan for IFF data. Identity verified, those vessels hail from the Risallas Dominion, comrade commander."</I> The captain breathed a sigh of relief as the signal contact had thirty-six signatures, and the Davians would have been badly outnumbered if they had been hostile contacts. "That’s good, what kind of vessels are they?” The SAI responded to the captain’s query with a combination of holographic images based on sensor scans and IFF data to support the images. The information revealed that there were only six warships attached to a freighter convoy, this was clearly a trade group. “Hail them and send our regards.”
Unknown to both parties however, a third set of vessels would emerge nearby, on any other day this would not be remarkable as it patrols, and trade convoys tended to meet and conduct business at random intervals along trade routes. On the edge on a system near TDA claimed territory the TDASV Frontier Spirit emerged gracefully from its wormhole. It was finally setting out to explore systems outside of claimed territory for the first time. Everyone involved was filled with excitement and anxiety as they set out further into space. “Captain, wormhole dissipation complete and our corvettes are beginning the detachment progress.” The operations commander said sternly. “Good, have combat patrol set up we don’t want any surprises while we sit here for the next few weeks.” Captain Marco said plainly. “Captain, we have contacts throughout the system.” An ensign said with nervousness in her voice. “What do you mean by contacts, ensign?” Marco said cautiously looking over the shoulder of the ensign at the scanner terminal. “XO, take us to Sabre two and get Alexander up here, we either have first contact or a fight on our hands and I need to know which one it is.” Marco said with some nervousness in his voice that was starting to show. The XO went to the ship PA system played the announcement tune, and then sounded the alarm. The ship was filled with the sounds of claxons bearing and the same announcement over and over again. “Action stations, Action stations set ship condition to Sabre two this is not a drill, Action Stations, Action stations.” The ship’s crews ran frantically but in an orderly fashion throughout the ship, getting on their uniforms, equipment and the like. Shields were raised, weapons were manned but not charged up and pilots manned their fighters and sat anxiously inside the launch tubes. Denise Alexander was the on-board government official for exploration fleet one, she spent most her days relaxing and talking to crew as for the past few months she sat around in complete boredom. Today was different she was woken up by first the deafening sound of the action stations alarm and then an ensign gingerly telling her that she is needed on the bridge. When she heard that a jolt of excitement shot through her. Quickly she became decent and reported to the bridge. “Captain, what’s the situation.” She said with a commanding tone. “We, uh, have two groups of contacts, one with thirty-six signatures and the other with twenty-two signatures both are of unknown origin and their IFFs don’t register.” Marco said a little intimidated. “I didn’t want to try and make contact without you here… so there’s no miscommunications.” Marco stammered on his words. “Alright, we’ll send them a message all a message and get this straightened out.” She smiled smacking Marco on the back as she walked over to the communications terminal. “Attention all, we are the Three Domains Alliance here on a mission of exploration, if you can understand this send a return message of who you are and your intentions.” She said politely but sternly “Alright now we wait for a return message.” She said with a smile to Marco who had a look of concern on his face. “Lighten up Captain, if get into any real trouble we can just leave.” Alexander said with a more comforting tone to the clearly stressed captain.
Meanwhile he Dominion convoy was caught mid-way in its jump calculations when the familiar signature of Davian vessels appeared on the sensor sweep of one of the escorts. Since both nations often crossed paths due to the proximity of both in the western expanse these sorts of encounters were common enough to have a standard protocol. On the bridge of the RDAV – Vincent, Captain Dieron watched the sensor image of the Davian vessels as they maneuvered post FTL. “Signal the convoy, they can relax it’s just a long-range Davian patrol….”
The captain didn’t get to finish the statement before something else appeared on sensors from the near opposite direction of the Davian ships. Sensors painted an absolutely rough image of what the new arrivals were, much like they had for the Davians. Within the three-dimensional holographic display on the bridge of the Vincent both the Davians and the new arrivals initially appeared as off-white rectangles and with each successive sensor sweep the shapes took form finally rendering the appearance of the arrivals. The ships computers checked the ships against a known sensor profile database and failing that sensor silhouettes and then some additional criteria. This check took only a few seconds and refined as the Davian ships got closer finally producing a precise identification, but for the other signal contact the ships of the convoy were still attempting to identify. Captain Dieron didn’t need a computer to tell him that the new arrivals were unknowns, but in the best interest of playing it safe he ordered a text-only message sent to the Davian vessels in an encryption that they would be able to translate. <” Greetings to our friends the Davians, can you tell us if the new sensor contacts that just appeared at coordinates 123,31,43 are your vessels? They do not match any in our registry.”> As luck would have it, Captain Dieron didn’t have to wait for the answer from the Davians. A ensign operating one of the communications consoles spoke out. “Sir, the unidentified contacts have identified themselves, they say they are the ‘Three Domains Alliance’…they’re explorers and want to know our intentions, what should I say sir?” Captain Dieron didn’t miss a beat as he responded instinctively. ‘Tell them the following. We are a trade convoy hailing from the Risallas Dominion and were passing through. If we have trespassed on your territory we did not do so intentionally and will move to a position to respect your borders.’ The message was sent in the common language used in first contacts in the galaxy, Galactic Unicode.
Meanwhile aboard the Davian Command ship a similar scene was playing out in regards to the arrival of the TDA and their message. "New contact detected. Passive scanning initiated..." The Davian SAIs onboard the ships announced one after the other: "The Dominion convoy has replied to us using encrypted text…the new contacts do not belong to them. I recommend first contact protocol in this situation.” </I> The main SAI on the Davian command ship informed the commander before he could respond the SAI continued with an updated analysis
"The unknown contact has just identified itself as belonging to the Three Domains Alliance. It seems the Dominion is trying to hail them. What are your orders?" The commander considered for just a moment before issuing orders. "Take us to yellow alert, raise shields but do not power the weapons yet. We will also try to hail them." The Davian commander replied, foremost on his mind was the establishment of peaceful contact. After all the chances of finding another civilized species was fairly high based on prior encounters and these TDA people did not do anything hostile. "Reply to the Dominion using our encrypted text: < We confirm that those vessels do not belong to us and belong to another faction. We're attempting to make first contact with them. For mutual security allow our ships to join you Dominion friends.> "
He then turned to his communications officer: "Send this to the new contact: Greeting Three Domains Alliance we are the long-range patrol flotilla of Divine Davia Empire. We are on our regular patrol route. If we somehow ended up trespassing your territories then we want to deeply apologize and will withdraw from your claimed border if you desire it." The Davian commander then turned to one of his subordinates to give an additional set of orders. "Send a message to headquarters, they need to know we have found new nation and possibly very close to our border." A few heavily encrypted messages would be sent out of the system back to the Davian's space.
Alexander listened closely to the messages from the Dominion and the Davians as they were filtered through the translators. She was keeping an ear open for tones of voice and background noise to try and figure out if these people were friendly; even though they declared their intentions it never hurt to be a little bit cautious. After a few minutes, she put down the headset and walked towards Marco who was standing in the middle of the Command Information Center.
“Alright Captain, I think we can turn down the alert status we have a military patrol and a freighter convoy and I can’t detect anything that suggests that they could be hostile. So that also ultimately means this is a first contact situation.” She said enthusiastically Marco looked at her with a scrutinizing look. “Lower alert to Sabre 3 and re-dock the corvettes, I don’t want to leave anyone behind if this goes south.” Marco bellowed out orders through the command information center. “Alright so what’s the plan here Alexander, I’m a little out the loop for first contact protocols.” Moments later Alexander responded to the query. “Well its simple enough I ask them if they want to talk and have a meet and greet and we see if can’t hash out any new deals or agreements, but not before I make sure that they aren’t affiliated with you know who from back home.” She said excitedly. “Alright, I’ll get a ship prepped and have an escort team ready as well as assemble an honor guard in case they want to meet here, so you can handle the rest.” Marco said with some confidence returning to him. Alexander nodded before getting back onto the communications. “Hello fellow space travelers, firstly there is no need to change course as this is unclaimed territory and secondly since this is a first contact situation are you interested in siting down for the first diplomatic talks between our great nations?” She proclaimed with a little too much excitement.
The convoy had completed its synchronized jump calculations by the time the responses had come back from the Davians and the Three Domain Alliance. Thankfully it was a friendly contact in the case of the Three Domains Alliance, but this left a question of who wanted to take the lead in this first contact scenario. Given the often spartan nature of cargo freighters and their escorts Captain Dieron knew that it might negatively affect the meeting of nations if the meeting were to occur on just any vessel in his convoy, fortunately he had a few tramp freighters in his number and one had a passenger amenity module that as of the convoy’s stop before last was empty. While certainly not a match for the facilities provided on a large capitol warship, or a diplomatic vessel it would certainly be more adaptable to the needs of a previously unknown species and might increase the chances of a successful outcome. As a plus to this assessment, it might be a lot less ominous or threatening to use a freighter depending on what the cultural priorities are of this foreign species. Captain Dieron responded to the messages from the Davians and the TDA with two messages of his own; the first would be sent to the TDA and was kept short but polite. <‘We would prefer a meeting, we will move one of our freighters to a position of equal distance from all parties and our representative will be aboard to greet you when you send your representative over. We hope that this is the first of many productive encounters our peoples will have.’> Meanwhile the message sent to the Davians was a bit longer but it addressed the diplomatic plan and the proposal to link up the Davian fleet and the Dominion convoy. <‘To our friends the Davians, we have volunteered the use of one of our tramp freighters as a meeting place for this first contact event, it has a passenger module so amenities will be taken care of. We will move the RDAV – Alcon to a position that is equidistant from our three vessel groups so that our new guests don’t feel threatened or unwelcome. Once it is in position send your representatives there. Also, for the time being it may be best that our vessel groups appear as separate, these TDA folks may misinterpret any joining maneuvers as an act of aggression.’> As if on cue the RDAV-Alcon slowly broke formation and moved gingerly to a position that was dead in the middle ground between all three nation's respective ships. The vessel was clearly a modular freighter that had been outfitted for passenger transport and currently seemed to have its shields down and its weapons unpowered as a sign of diplomatic faith. Upon receiving the message from the other two fleets. The Davian commander though for a moment before ordering his flotilla to stop where they are and keep their distant from the other fleet and the RDAV -Alcon. While mutual defensive was necessary, making the new contact feel threaten would be a bad move. As the Dominion's freighter positioned itself at the right distant, a small shuttle escorted by a pair of star fighters moved out of the Davian's leading battle cruiser and headed toward it. At the same times two messages would be sent. One toward the Three Domains Alliance which said: "Greeting again Three Domains Alliance fellow. We Davian too are interest in making new contact and establish diplomatic links with your people. As the Dominion suggested, we are sending our diplomats to their freighter. It would be our great honor to meet you there." The second text message would be sent toward the Dominion convoy: <We agree with your cause of action Dominion friends. The flotilla will keep our distant and our diplomats will arrive shortly.> Few moments later the Davian ships received a single maximum encrypted text message, it said: <The sector command approved your suggestion to establish diplomatic relation with the new faction. If something goes wrong you will have reinforcement.> Alexander and Marco watched one the tactical display several ships moved about. The Davians sent three ships towards the designated freighter where the talks would take place. This left Marco feeling uneasy, the whole situation was new to him after all he was a rookie captain who only got his post because of massive gaps in the chain of command. He turned to Alexander. “How do you want to go about this? Should we send escorts as well or just the transport by itself?” he said nervously considering the risks of the operation. Alexander took a moment to think before she collected her thoughts. “I think just the transport by itself will be fine, one first contact with another nation Hans Crove went by himself onto an alien ship and walked away with so many beneficial deals. So maybe we can learn from his example.” She said positively to try and assure Marco that things would work out fine. “Alright, I’ll get on communications and tell HQ, I’ll ask to have 2EF put on standby just in case we need help.” Alexander gave a nod to Marco and left the CIC, she walked down to the hanger where her shuttle was awaiting as well as a squad of marines assigned to protection duty. The shuttle was launched into the void and preceded to the designated ship. Alexander killed the time by talking and joking with the marines about what these new people may look like or how they might act.
As the respective parties drew closer to the Dominion’s Tramp Freighter they might realize that this vessel despite being a freighter was well taken care of. In contract to the other freighters in the group it looked relatively new with few signs of the normal rough service a freighter asset that might see a half century of use should have. This wasn’t a suspicious detail though as any basic scan of the vessel’s IFF data would reveal that it’s registry indicated it had been launched less than a year ago. Flight control would guide the arriving shuttles and their escorts to docking bays on opposite sides of a centrally mounted module which was designed to receive personal pleasure craft and yachts*, despite its intent it was easily able to accommodate the shuttles sent by the Davians and the TDA. Flight Control gave relatively simplistic landing instructions which were aided by holographic guides and enough illumination and sensor reflecting to make the arrival of the foreign craft as easy as a simple planetary runway landing in favorable conditions. Once landed the arrivals would find that the docking bays were heavily automated, and impeccably orderly which might stand in utter contrast to how normal starship landing bays were maintained. The bay itself actually ran through the width of the Module and each landed shuttle and its fighters were settled on a turntable of sorts that after the parties disembarked would rotate the craft for lift off using the same point of entry as the Davians and the TDA had landed in opposite ends of the same bay. Once the bay was pressurized a green lamp over the central waking path of the bay lit confirming along with flight control that it was safe to disembark. Moments after single representative from the Dominion entered the bay flanked by eight security personnel who took positions along the walls, their stance was non-threatening as though it was standard procedure to have a small cadre of objective force infantry present. The sole Dominion representative waited patiently for the two parties to disembark and orient themselves.
The three Davian vessels smoothly docked themselves without difficulty. The ramp from the shuttle lowed to allow its passengers to disembark. Coincidently the representative of the empire would be commissar Tan, the very same officer who made first contact with the Risallas Dominion, the commissar would be flanked by an adjutant and a winged SAI. Those officers would be escorted by two human musketeers and two winged Shiguran warriors. "Greeting representative of the Risallas Dominion friends. I'm commissar Tan of the Davian Long Range Patrol Flotilla." The Davian group saluted. "We were chosen to represent the Divine Davian Empire for this diplomatic mission. Let's wait for our new friends and hope we will have a smooth first contact." Alexander was waiting eagerly at the shuttle door; its slow descent onto the hanger floor was almost torture. Once it was secured in place her Marine escort comprising of a single squad of ten exited first and stood at attention on either side of the ramp. Alexander then walked down looking professional and in control where in her mind she was too excited for such an occasion. She gave the squad leader a nod and the marines went at ease and broke formation, they then stood in a circle where they quietly exchanged money for bets lost on how the aliens would look. Alexander all alone without her escorts walked over to the two people who seemed to be conversing. “Hello, I’m Denise Alexander official representative of the Three Domains Alliance, attached to Exploration fleet one; it is a marvelous occasion that our great nations have met here today and I hope we can establish a strong relationship between our peoples.” She said enthusiastically. Now her excitement turned to anxiousness, she hoped it would go smoothly.
* In this case a Yacht is a shuttle designed for civilian use and is effectively a large shuttle aimed at comfort and such.
The individual waiting for both parties on the central walkway was humanoid, but not precisely human, where one might expect a single pair of eyes there were two luminescent eyes and offset above and below an additional pair of simple eyes. A rebreather mask covered the representative’s mouth and nose, and what were presumably intake and exhaust lines ran to a cylinder worn over the back. With each breath and exhalation where was a slight whisper which was low enough to be noted but not loud enough to be distracting. It was highly likely neither the Davians or the TDA had ever met an Atrean, as they were completely unable to leave their home world until they met the Dominion. The representative was dressed in a Dominion military uniform, and if at least the Davians who had dealings with the Dominion before were observant they might notice that the representative was of at least Commander rank in the Navy. The representative politely nodded in response to Tan’s introduction but waited until the TDA representative introduced herself before saying anything as some species took offence if only one side of a meeting was spoken to in encounter like this. “Captain Dieron sends his greetings to both of your peoples. He would be here in person however, we thought it unwise to maneuver his ship so it could launch a shuttle as moving a warship might look like an act of aggression. I am Commander Imari Khatligo, and it is my task to see that our peoples come to a fruitful agreement. I welcome you aboard, and just beyond that door is a meeting room with full refreshments and accommodations.” With that Imari politely gestured towards the set of doors leading directly to the meeting room across a hallway. She looked at both of them the non-human one unsettled her a bit as she had not seen anything of the like before, but the human one she was sure that he could be easy to talk to although the title of commissar indicated a certain fanatical element that left her wondering. “Alright, before we go any further with diplomatic talks I need to ask a question. Have either of your nations been in contact or are associated with a nation known as the United Star Empire. Our mission is one of secrecy and I can’t continue talk unless I have a guarantee.” The seriousness in her voice taking over from the excitement.Commissar Tan was a bit surprised by two events. Firstly, the appearance of a new species specifically the Altrean in the rank of the Dominion, clearly he and his staffs would be some of the first Davian to meet this new species. Secondly would be the appearance and the rather strange question of the new Three Domains Alliance just in the first contact. Still being a commissar who received training in politics and diplomatic these little surprises wouldn't have hampered his ability. "Miss Alexander, I can be sure with you that Divine Davia Empire has never heard about the nation called United Star Empire. This is the first times we learned about said faction." After all, three persons were sat down in the meeting room.
Once the group was situated in the meeting room the Commander politely answered the question posed by the Three Domains Alliance representative. “As far as I know, the Dominion has not yet encountered this United Star Empire. Though judging from your tone, one could get the impression they are not friendly much less good neighbors. Unless they arrived in the galaxy rather recently, I can confirm that no nation by that name is shown on the common galactic map.” With a gesture, a holographic image of the common galaxy appeared indicating the information shown in the pre-union/dominion first contact era, albeit with some updates for other new nation’s borders added*. “If the Union of Worlds doesn’t document them then they simply have not been met yet. I think it is safe to say this United Star Empire isn’t even in the galaxy yet.” Alexander breathed a sigh of relief as she pulled out her holo-map device and placed it on the table and turned it on. On it appeared a map of the claimed space and systems of the TDA. She pointed at the lone star system on the map. “This is our current base of operations here in the Gorganos Prime system; currently we are building up civilian and military infrastructure to support populations here in this galaxy. If you want to reach us this is where you can do it, you can talk to my boss Director of Extra Galactic affairs Albert Tyldum, he’s really good and get you fixed up with just about anything you need. Also, our military is centered here under Fleet Admiral Chesterton.” She paused to take a breath and hoped she wasn’t talking too fast. “Here and now I’m authorized to set up just about any agreement with you, to get a strong start to our relationships.” She said with a smile, while waiting for their replies. Tan looked at the map provided by both Dominion and TDA before nodded at the hovering angel like robot which landed and opened its right palm. The robot's palm showed a holographic map of the galaxy according to the Davian map. The map included the border of claimed Davia territory and a single system dubbed simply as "Trade System": "Here Miss Alexander is our map. We Davian are currently trying to make a trade hub in this location. As we too are rather new to this galaxy and as you see, we didn't have a lot of information about it. I must say you are one of a few factions we have ever met here along with the Dominion." The commissar then smiled: "Still we Davian like to make new contact and according to your map, it's seemed our borders are pretty close to the other, isn't it? Anyway, to get start, may I ask you about your civilization? And what's the USE you mentioned before?"
“In terms of initial arrangements, I think a non-aggression pact would be the first logical step. The known nations of the western region of the galaxy have all agreed that we have no desire to engage in the level of conflict known in the eastern side of the galaxy and since there are a number of young nations it would be deleterious to even consider it.” Commander Khatligo retrieved a data pad from one of his pockets and taped a few commands into it to bring up the necessary terms and conditions of a normal international non-aggression pact. The document contained within was perhaps five pages long and contained what one might expect and clauses for being an accomplice to unwarranted military aggression, the use of criminal elements to cause monetary damages and even a clause regarding cyber warfare. Overall it was a short and sweet agreement that compromised neither party but made it clear that both parties were being treated as equals in the agreement. “I have the document ready for your viewing and approval.” With that Commander Khatligo offered the data device to Denise Alexander.
After looking over the terms and conditions of the NAP Alexander nodded her head in agreement as she finished reading it. “This is a good welcoming first step to good relations that the TDA can get behind consider it’s agreed upon.” She said happily before turning to face Commissar Tan to answer his questions. “So you want to know more about the TDA. Well firstly we’re a nation built upon the principles of democracy, forged through a great conflict known as the unification war. It was between our three founding planets: Tethannis Prime, New Taurus and Vela. What started this war was when the planetary Lords all wanted to expand their domains and all three wanted the same new system, it was during a time called the great collapse of the old Earth Star Empire so it was every planet for itself you see. This war went on for 25 years, during the end the soldiers on all sides decided to band together to over throw their Lords when they found out the true cause of the war. They returned home and lynched their Lords and all nobles on their planets as the civilians all cheered them on. After this event of freeing themselves from imperialist tyranny the came together to sign the Alliance Articles bring all planets under a single banner. Since then we knew only peace and prosperity. Up and till about 10 years ago when we came into contact with the United Star Empire.” She paused for a second and her expression changed from a prideful one to a grim one. “These days we are on the back foot of the war since… well everyone calls it the Meat Grinder of Liberty… that’s what it felt like there at the time too. We went on the offensive to reclaim systems that the USE had taken over, we were so outmatched but we pushed through and won… it didn’t feel like we won anything. I’ll tell you about the USE, they are not to be considered human they might walk and talk like us but they’re monsters.” She stopped herself before getting too emotional “But I digress; outside of a NAP would your nations be interested in a Free Trade Agreement to help expand our relationships in the future as well as aid each other economically?” she said going back to her usual happy tone of voice. As the commissar listened to Alexander's story, the Davian SAI made a fast scan on the received NAP between the Dominion and TDA. "It's a good history background Miss Alexander. We understand why your people did that. In the other hand, it's seems the policy and philosophy of your people is not in conflict with ours." Tan smiled while turning to the Dominion - TDA NAP: "Oh and I see the Dominion and TDA are signing NAP, we Davian would also want to enter NAP with your people. And yes we Davian are rather willing to trade, but before we are going to it, please allow me to take a look at the NAP first." It will take a few moments for the Davian to study and to prepare the NAP, thus commissar Tan used that used the opportunity to explain (very briefly) the history of the empire and its government. "Thank you for your waiting and sorry for taking your times Commander Khatligo, Miss Alexander. Here is the document for our NAP for your viewing and approval. Then we can go straight to the trading agreements." The commissar put a data pad on the table. The document would be somewhat similar to those of the Dominion with some differences including. <Does not allow any individual or entity to use the territories of a signatory as base to carry out hostile activities against the other signatories. Activities again the other signatories including but not limited to: military actions, spying, piracy, cybernetic warfare and criminal’s activity. Does not allow any individual or entity to recruit mercenaries, privateers or foreign legions to be use again the other signatories.>
The conversation detailing the character of nations between the Davians and the TDA did not go unnoticed by Commander Khatligo in fact while the terms of the NAP were being considered he offered a perspective of the Dominion for the TDA representative. “I think, the best way to describe the Risallas Dominion is to frame it with history. Our people set out as part of a military campaign in our home galaxy, our ancestors just a hundred years ago were part of a military colonization unit tasked with setting up a forward operations colony as a preparation to end the threat of the Anarchs in our home galaxy once and for all. We attempted to a cyclic wormhole to accelerate our rate of travel so we would arrive on destination roughly a year early, it turned out to be unstable and dumped us out here in this galaxy instead. While originally, we were part of the united Earth government we found quite quickly that the ideals of normal democracy and such would not function at all in the lawlessness of the Western fringe of this galaxy. The dominion has elements of a republic, with a strong meritocratic rule of law.” The commander paused to let that sink in before moving to a more personal frame of reference. “It is due to this that the Dominion is quite accepting of species that are not human as we do not look at what you are but what you have done and your potential to act. Personally speaking, if the dominion hadn’t encountered my people I suspect we would still be trapped on our home world. By that time, we had already suffered a few unwanted incursions from the self-proclaimed warlords in the galactic fringe. To have someone arrive who wasn’t out to exploit our world or our people but had the ability to honor their agreements and promises was a welcome change.” Tan smiled as the TDA official agreed with the NAP as he said: "I know it can be a bit boring as our NAP would be somewhat similar to the other. But unfortunately, these treaties are separated. However, with most of the known factions in this part of the galaxy having NAP with the other I personally think we can have something greater in the further. Anyway, ladies and gentlemen, is there anything you want to talk about before moving to the trade agreement?"
There were times when the job of a diplomat could be boring and reading over terms and conditions of documents that were essentially the same over and over was one of them. None the less Alexander kept her happy demeanour and pushed through the NAP document until the end. She gave a cheerful nod to Tan after she signed it. “This is excellent striking NAPs with not one but two nations is a very welcoming to the TDA. So I turn it back over to you gentlemen if you have any more to ask of me. The TDA is very generous at this time so almost nothing is off the table.” she said ecstatically
“Actually, now that you mention trade, during the first contact meeting between ourselves, the Singers of the void and the Union of Worlds, it was briefly proposed that nations in this region organize for the purposes of advancing our shared goals. Granted it’s been a while since that moment in time, and we were originally going to propose the ratification of such an arrangement at the end of our return trip now seems as good a time as any.” Commander Khatligo, with a few key strokes to his own data device wirelessly sent a copy of the Western Regional League agreement to both the Davian and TDA’s personal data devices. “This is what we’ve assembled so far, it covers trade, it has military options, and it covers sovereignty. Granted, I was tasked with making sure this agreement was legally air tight by the time of our return, I don’t think High command anticipated such a fortuitous meeting happening like what we have right now. I propose to each of you, this agreement for your nations individual consideration.”
Alexander was a little shocked at first, everything was going according to how she was trained and things seemed to be wrapping up, when the proposal of an alliance was brought to the table. For something to happen like this to so quickly, it was something very alien to the TDA. She looked through document several times over she nodded and turned to Commander Khatligo.
“This is a very interesting proposition indeed Commander. I’ll need to step outside the room momentarily, so I can speak with my superior.” She then excused herself from the table and walked outside where she got in contact with the Frontier Spirit who gave her a direct line to Headquarters. “This is Tyldum here, what’s the issue Denise.” He said gruffly as he half expected there to be some sort of diplomatic snafu. “Sir, I’ve had a proposition of an alliance handed to us. I know we have extremely free range with a number of political agreements but I was hoping for a second opinion.” She said with some nervousness as she sent the file over to Tyldum. He studied it for a few minutes and checked it for flaws and any hidden clauses, he was rather pleased with it after finding none. Actually, finding friends that would stand by the TDA would be a massive boost to moral, not just the soldiers and sailors but for the people as well. This isn’t something I can turn down without having a lot of regrets later on he thought. “Alright Denise, looks good I’ll give the go ahead and pass word up the grapevine. I think the president will have a heart attack when he hears that we have allies to count on, hell maybe he can re-elected after all.” Tyldum said with a chuckle before he ended the communication. Alexander sighed in relief before she walked back into the conference room and sat back down. “Alright, everyone’s happy with the agreement back at headquarters. So we will be signing in favor of this alliance. Hopefully this is the start of many more great things.” She said cheerfully as she signed the charter.
Commissar Tan and his staff looked through the document. He was of course a little surprise with the Dominion's idea, still his emotion would be kept in check: "Thank you for the data, Commander Khatligo. This proposal is no doubt very important and while Davian Commissar like me have wide authority to conduct diplomatic agreement, this type of agreement will need the attention of at least the sector's command. So allow me to step out for a moment to inform them." Tan respectfully explained as he and his aids politely stepped out of the meeting room and began contact with the sector's command. "Contact the Sector's command SAI, send them the document and inform them Commissar Tan of the Long Range Patrol Group need the attention of the sector commander." The communications officer responded to the orders in a curt polite voice. "I'm doing so sir." The winged SAI responded as it began to do what was told. Moment later a fairly large holographic screen popped up from the robot's right palm. "I was informed that you need my attention comrade Commissar Tan. So what do you have?" A figured popped up and asked. "Sir we're having new contact and they turned out to be near us. But more importantly the Dominion is inviting us all into an alliance. I've sent you the document." "Let me see..." Commissar Tan studied the document for a while before answered: "It's an interesting proposal. I'll agree with it personally and I believe the Grand Council will also agree. Beside I'll send you my electronic signature. Good job for securing an alliance for us comrade commissar." </I>"As your wish comrade commander." Tan saluted before walked back into the meeting room to rejoin the other parties. "Ladies and Gentlemen. Regarding the proposal of the alliance between our nations, I can confirm that the sector commander agreed to enter the alliance and has sent his electronic signature." Tan said as the winged SAI again opened its right's palm to allow a holographic screen to show the signature of Divine Davia Empire 19th Sector Commander: "With it I hereby Divine Davia Empire we will be signing in favor of the alliance."
“Well I would say that this is one of the most critical moments in the history of the western region. Since we were going to present this treaty upon return I already have the authorization to sign it also on behalf of the Dominion.” Commander Khatligo gestured towards his data device with an open hand and his palm facing down towards the device. The current version of the treaty in all instances had already updated with the two other representative’s signatures. With just a gesture Khatligo’s signature appeared in translated (galactic standard) text with an identifying barcode. “With that, we have now have just become the center of an organization that will benefit our peoples in the long run. As a first order of business, my convoy’s next stop is near the Singers of the Void’s territory. I think we may be able to convince them to sign on to this agreement since they are within the borders outlined. Which leaves one interesting bit of intelligence gleaned over the last few months or so.” Khatligo gestured with the same hand he used to sign and a holographic map appeared showing the rough locations of all conformed nations in the western reach and then two other objects of interest. “Simple passive radio telemetry indicates that in these two locations there are space-capable species that remain uncontacted…finding them and making first contact may be our first real objective we face as allies…”
This concludes the public recording of the events leading up to and during the first contact meeting between the Divine Davian Empire, Risallas Dominion and the Three Domains Alliance.
*For note this map would lack a position for the dominion and a few other western nations instead replacing them with first contact locations.