Post by EmperorMyric on Mar 22, 2021 16:00:46 GMT
A signal went out from the Stella O Fortuna, calling any news reporters that wished to come. A meeting place had been given in the message. Little else was given besides a single sentence in the beginning, “The Grand Commander of the Anthenera wishes to speak.”
The meeting place was a mid-ranged star with only a single rocky planet. Though a single station stood out. Its crystalline form spoke of it being Andracken. It lay on the boarder of Anthenera space in the Ancerious galaxy and was now acting as an embassy of sorts. Several Andracken Escorts and Frigates patrolled around in case of Davian incursion. Though one ship stood out more than anything there. That ship was _Navis Siderum_; the personal ship of Fel, the leader of the Andracken and the Anthenera. At over 57 kilometers it’s size was comparable to The Collector.
Upon arrival, the Dectrothian Galactic Network's small vessel sent out a hail indicating who they where and why they were here as it dropped the wormhole behind it, letting the craft cool down before moving onto the station. The DGN Reporter in tow had some experience from his home galaxy, and after being briefed on the situation here, Morely felt that he would be able to work out the questions that needed some answers. Though at the moment he was awestruck by the massive vessel floating in the dead black of space, no Dectrothian ship could ever match its sheer size, it was inspiring but as he refocused his mind to the task at hand, he had a feeling this might be an interesting event to cover.
Not long after he settled his thoughts, the DGN vessel cleared through the docking procedures, docked with the station, Morely, his RAVD Camera Drone, Drone Engineer Michael Grange and Blacktalon Private Security Agent Arlin Euston stepped off, being greeted and escorted to the conference room where they set up, prepping for the conference that the Andracken had requested. The three Dectrothians took their seats, awaiting the start of things.
The ANC's reporters arrived without much in the way of fanfare. Press conferences were typically routine and boring affairs. Other reporters were out covering wars, or interviewing galactic leaders, or uncovering conspiracies, scams, and shady dealings...
Dirk Allen had hoped that when he was promoted from traffic monitoring to full-fledged reporter he would be joining his colleagues in the thick of it. But no sooner had he unpacked at his new desk than he'd been sent off to put in an appearance at a press conference.
Not exactly his first choice of assignment... but someone had to do it. And since he was the FNG, he supposed it would have to be him. He arrived, followed by his support team, and took his seat with a sigh and a yawn.
Hopefully this wouldn't take long.
Once all the reporters were settled down movement could be seen beyond the wall facing them. The crystal shimmered and moved, revealing three figures. The first was an older man, his white hair seemed to glow, and individual hairs couldn’t be made out. He wore a black suit that seemed to absorb the light. His eyes were unnatural for his human figure as they were as black as his suit.
“All rise for Fel the eternal Queen of the Anthenera!” His voice boomed, the tone commanding respect from all who attended. He stepped aside to show the last two, both were women. The first appeared middle aged, her dark red hair flowed elegantly down her back. Her dress was a silver color with black trim lining it. Her dark blue eyes spoke of wisdom and age.
The girl next to her was well known by those who had seen her, it was Raven. The living weapon stood at Fel’s flank. No weapon was shown, but that did not mean she wasn’t armed. Her face was set in a neutral expression that didn’t allow for any emotion to be shown.
Fel stopped at a crystalline desk and made to sit. As she did a crystal throne was quickly constructed. She smiled as she looked out to the reporters that were in the room.
“I am Fel, Leader of the Andracken as you call us, and Queen of the Anthenera.” Fel’s voice seemed to echo from all around and even in the heads of those present. “I appear before you all to give a statement, and to answer any questions the inhabitants in the galaxy have for us.”
“It has come to my attention that certain groups have formed a pact in retaliation to our involvement in the Destruction of Voi-con and the greater Davian War. Several of these nations are unknown to us or hold no value to us. By announcing yourself like this you have place yourselves on a watchlist so-to-speak. Any action taken by those in the Pact against any allies of the Anthenera in the Ancerious Galaxy will be taken as an act of aggression to us.” Fel began, her face turning deadly serious.
“Also, we are not afraid of any who attempt to destroy our presence in the Ancerious Galaxy. Any ships lost in this galaxy are of insignificance to the greater size of the Andracken Navy.” She waited a few seconds before continuing. “Finally, I will personally make any trip to any government that wishes to speak with me. Now are there any questions?”
"Dirk Allen, Ancerious News Corporation," Dirk said, standing up. "The Askandar Pact was ostensibly formed in response to the aggressive postures, false statements, and threatening overtones taken by the Andracken in their foreign dealings. Are you at all concerned that the threatening overtone of this statement will only galvanize more neutral nations to seek membership in the Askandar Pact?"
“Logically other nations would stay clear of the pact. However, we are aware that due to humans having emotions that some might seek safety in numbers.” Fel responded. “But there are the other groups that they may go to if they seek solace. These groups are the APP, AGA, and CORE if our information is correct.”
Standing up, he introduced himself "Your highness, I am Reporter Mike Morely of the Dectrothian Galactic Network, you spoke of those who would attempt to destroy your nation here in this galaxy, while such a statement seems like a challenge to those who seek to oppose you, are you concerned with only defending yourself and others, or would you seek an offensive action?" He paused, then continued "As well, you mentioned 'human emotions' in your statement, is there any chance the Andracken would seek to investigate and try to understand these emotions, in order to improve relations with nations that have a majority population of humanoids?"
“If an offensive action is necessary we will take it. As well if our allies ask for our assistance we will help them. As for emotions, me and Tek,” she motioned to the man from before, “We are the only Andracken that possess emotions, though we are capable of suppressing them if needed.” She paused and turned to look at one of the Andracken Warriors. “However, no plans have been made, nor any in the future to add emotions to Andracken constructs, nor to investigate emotions. This is to keep our constructs in prime condition and free from emotion’s limits. That is why we are using the Cyons for diplomacy as they possess emotions unlike us.”
"Right, but if your warriors do not have emotions to prevent them from possibly losing control in a battle, do they have morals to determine what they should and shouldn't do? Is there a line in which your warriors would engage an armed combatant, and limit collateral or civilian casualties in the field of battle?" Morely questioned, in an inquisitive tone.
Fel paused and her face twitched slightly before closing her eyes. “Andracken soldiers follow all commands given to them. They follow their orders absolutely, and are more robot, than man by your definition. Andracken soldiers are also highly precise in their fire and will only target enemy combatants. Constructs we call Commanders are the ones who make the decision in the end however. While they have more free thought than soldiers, but they are no more than highly advanced ‘living’ war computers. They will act out in the way they see will lead to victory.” Fel opened her eyes, the calm expression still there despite the heavy subject.
Dirk Allen stood again and cleared his throat, glancing down at his tablet to check his information once more before speaking.
"The Andraken have, in the past, attacked the neutral nation of Hasorn unprovoked, broken treaties with the now defunct Western Regional League, and at the battle of Voi Conn destroyed a planet ostensibly as a 'show of force'. This of course, doesn't bring up the numerous times your government has acted belligerently in its foreign dealings. Why should any nation in the Avarian Frontier concerned about Andraken aggression trust anything your government has to say?"
“You are mistaken Mr. Allen, the Hasorn fired first in the conflict. As for the WRL I saw troubles with the Davians and was moving to have ties cut with them. The Battle of Voi Con was ordered by me, but the Commander of Singularity Prime made the decision to destroy the planet. Its actions were most likely a way to show the Davians that they could not hope to win. As for the other incidents you claim, I have no clue as to what you speak of.” Fel’s voice teetered on the edge of suspicion and defensive.
"The Hasorn only fired after Andracken forces had threatened to wipe out their military and civilian forces and charged weapons when the Hasorn refused to hand over some aspect of their technology. Since the first shots have been fired the Andraken have also conducted an indiscriminate bombing campaign of Hasrain that has and continues to rack up numerous civilian casualties. If your fire is so precise, why are so many non-combatants dead? Moreover, if your commanders are so willing to turn on their supposed allies and engage neutral factions for technology, once again I must ask: Why should any nation in the Avarian Frontier concerned about Andraken aggression believe anything you or your government has to say?"
“We only claimed that we would destroy the Hasorn military. As for the civilian casualties involved in the conflict, that was bound to happen when the Hasorn military started fighting within the Civilian areas. Our only targets have been the Hasorn soldiers, we cannot be held responsible if civilians are caught in the cross fire.” Fel’s face had changed from one of calm to an irritation. She paused and closed her eyes once again, when she opened them up her face changed to neutral once again. “Again, I must tell you that we will not attack unless provoked. There is also little to no value found in most governments found in the Avarian Frontier outside of the Singers of the Void and the TDA. We would have moved along without acknowledging their presence like one would an ant. But despite us not attack those of the Pact or showing any sign of aggression towards them, they decide against logic to form a defensive pact against something that statistically wouldn’t happen.”
"These are the aggressive types of comments I referred to earlier," Dirk Allen pressed on. "If you're so intent on peace, and in the pursuit of that peace called a press conference to assure the nations of the Frontier that they have nothing to fear from you, and that the Pact is the aggressor, why then are you insulting and antagonizing the member nations of the Pact? Furthermore, what was the justification for the violation of the Hasorn's sovereignty and the demand that they hand over technology to you in the first place? On what grounds could your government make such a demand?"
“I never said they were the aggressor, I said they were illogical. As for our justification? It is our prime directive to collect and study unknown forms of technology. Our creators gave that task to us and we will follow it.” Fel’s tone said that she wouldn’t be persuaded otherwise.
"Do you not feel that the very fact you will attack anyone who will not relinquish their technology to you is the entire reason the Askandar Pact was formed in the first place?" Dirk Allen said with a sigh. "Furthermore, another nation, the System, made a similar claim and has since been completely wiped out. What makes you think your nation can succeed where the System failed?"
“We have the added benefit of having all the time in the universe. We can simply wait if a particularly troublesome group impedes us. As for the Askandar Pact, it was to my information created on the basis of our activities with the Devine Davian Empire.” Fel responded. Ten who had remained quite smirked as he shifted in his seat.
Morely calmly interjected "Your highness, while you have all the time in the universe to collect and to study unknown forms of technology, do you think that the Andracken would be more open to obtaining them through diplomacy in the future? Your success with the Three Domains Alliance would likely open the doors to request to study their technology, create new technology with them as well as secure a vital relationship with another nation in close proximity to your own. The System failed in its attempt by trying to ask for the technology at the first contact, often leading to aggressive actions. The resulting conflict forced them to move and they were exterminated by their own mistakes. Would the Andracken consider alternative means to successfully complete their Prime Directive?"
Fel turned to Morely “We have attempted this in the past, yes. And we are doing so with some of the current nations here. But some nations aren’t as foregoing as others. But we are striving for more diplomatic ways of completing our Prime Directive.”
"So, if you are open to the prospect of diplomacy, would the Andracken, and your highness, be inclined to meet with the leading members of the Askandar Pact on neutral ground to discuss the prospect of a peaceful end to the tension? This would, in theory, help to ease the fears from the members of the Askandar Pact of possible Andracken aggression, show to them that the Andracken are open to the prospect of peace and to show the galaxy at large that you have fearsome warriors, but also excellent diplomats. If the members of the Askandar Pact refuse to meet with you, then it would likely show who the aggressor is in this tense situation." He stood respectfully, even bowing slightly at the mention of 'your highness' he was determined to know what the Andracken would do, and if they would themselves seek an end to the resentment and fear between the Andracken and the Askandar Pact.
Fel slowly nodded. “Yes, I must concur. That would hopefully ease tensions between us.” Fel stood up slowly. “If that is all then I hereby call this press conference adjourned.”
The meeting place was a mid-ranged star with only a single rocky planet. Though a single station stood out. Its crystalline form spoke of it being Andracken. It lay on the boarder of Anthenera space in the Ancerious galaxy and was now acting as an embassy of sorts. Several Andracken Escorts and Frigates patrolled around in case of Davian incursion. Though one ship stood out more than anything there. That ship was _Navis Siderum_; the personal ship of Fel, the leader of the Andracken and the Anthenera. At over 57 kilometers it’s size was comparable to The Collector.
Upon arrival, the Dectrothian Galactic Network's small vessel sent out a hail indicating who they where and why they were here as it dropped the wormhole behind it, letting the craft cool down before moving onto the station. The DGN Reporter in tow had some experience from his home galaxy, and after being briefed on the situation here, Morely felt that he would be able to work out the questions that needed some answers. Though at the moment he was awestruck by the massive vessel floating in the dead black of space, no Dectrothian ship could ever match its sheer size, it was inspiring but as he refocused his mind to the task at hand, he had a feeling this might be an interesting event to cover.
Not long after he settled his thoughts, the DGN vessel cleared through the docking procedures, docked with the station, Morely, his RAVD Camera Drone, Drone Engineer Michael Grange and Blacktalon Private Security Agent Arlin Euston stepped off, being greeted and escorted to the conference room where they set up, prepping for the conference that the Andracken had requested. The three Dectrothians took their seats, awaiting the start of things.
The ANC's reporters arrived without much in the way of fanfare. Press conferences were typically routine and boring affairs. Other reporters were out covering wars, or interviewing galactic leaders, or uncovering conspiracies, scams, and shady dealings...
Dirk Allen had hoped that when he was promoted from traffic monitoring to full-fledged reporter he would be joining his colleagues in the thick of it. But no sooner had he unpacked at his new desk than he'd been sent off to put in an appearance at a press conference.
Not exactly his first choice of assignment... but someone had to do it. And since he was the FNG, he supposed it would have to be him. He arrived, followed by his support team, and took his seat with a sigh and a yawn.
Hopefully this wouldn't take long.
Once all the reporters were settled down movement could be seen beyond the wall facing them. The crystal shimmered and moved, revealing three figures. The first was an older man, his white hair seemed to glow, and individual hairs couldn’t be made out. He wore a black suit that seemed to absorb the light. His eyes were unnatural for his human figure as they were as black as his suit.
“All rise for Fel the eternal Queen of the Anthenera!” His voice boomed, the tone commanding respect from all who attended. He stepped aside to show the last two, both were women. The first appeared middle aged, her dark red hair flowed elegantly down her back. Her dress was a silver color with black trim lining it. Her dark blue eyes spoke of wisdom and age.
The girl next to her was well known by those who had seen her, it was Raven. The living weapon stood at Fel’s flank. No weapon was shown, but that did not mean she wasn’t armed. Her face was set in a neutral expression that didn’t allow for any emotion to be shown.
Fel stopped at a crystalline desk and made to sit. As she did a crystal throne was quickly constructed. She smiled as she looked out to the reporters that were in the room.
“I am Fel, Leader of the Andracken as you call us, and Queen of the Anthenera.” Fel’s voice seemed to echo from all around and even in the heads of those present. “I appear before you all to give a statement, and to answer any questions the inhabitants in the galaxy have for us.”
“It has come to my attention that certain groups have formed a pact in retaliation to our involvement in the Destruction of Voi-con and the greater Davian War. Several of these nations are unknown to us or hold no value to us. By announcing yourself like this you have place yourselves on a watchlist so-to-speak. Any action taken by those in the Pact against any allies of the Anthenera in the Ancerious Galaxy will be taken as an act of aggression to us.” Fel began, her face turning deadly serious.
“Also, we are not afraid of any who attempt to destroy our presence in the Ancerious Galaxy. Any ships lost in this galaxy are of insignificance to the greater size of the Andracken Navy.” She waited a few seconds before continuing. “Finally, I will personally make any trip to any government that wishes to speak with me. Now are there any questions?”
"Dirk Allen, Ancerious News Corporation," Dirk said, standing up. "The Askandar Pact was ostensibly formed in response to the aggressive postures, false statements, and threatening overtones taken by the Andracken in their foreign dealings. Are you at all concerned that the threatening overtone of this statement will only galvanize more neutral nations to seek membership in the Askandar Pact?"
“Logically other nations would stay clear of the pact. However, we are aware that due to humans having emotions that some might seek safety in numbers.” Fel responded. “But there are the other groups that they may go to if they seek solace. These groups are the APP, AGA, and CORE if our information is correct.”
Standing up, he introduced himself "Your highness, I am Reporter Mike Morely of the Dectrothian Galactic Network, you spoke of those who would attempt to destroy your nation here in this galaxy, while such a statement seems like a challenge to those who seek to oppose you, are you concerned with only defending yourself and others, or would you seek an offensive action?" He paused, then continued "As well, you mentioned 'human emotions' in your statement, is there any chance the Andracken would seek to investigate and try to understand these emotions, in order to improve relations with nations that have a majority population of humanoids?"
“If an offensive action is necessary we will take it. As well if our allies ask for our assistance we will help them. As for emotions, me and Tek,” she motioned to the man from before, “We are the only Andracken that possess emotions, though we are capable of suppressing them if needed.” She paused and turned to look at one of the Andracken Warriors. “However, no plans have been made, nor any in the future to add emotions to Andracken constructs, nor to investigate emotions. This is to keep our constructs in prime condition and free from emotion’s limits. That is why we are using the Cyons for diplomacy as they possess emotions unlike us.”
"Right, but if your warriors do not have emotions to prevent them from possibly losing control in a battle, do they have morals to determine what they should and shouldn't do? Is there a line in which your warriors would engage an armed combatant, and limit collateral or civilian casualties in the field of battle?" Morely questioned, in an inquisitive tone.
Fel paused and her face twitched slightly before closing her eyes. “Andracken soldiers follow all commands given to them. They follow their orders absolutely, and are more robot, than man by your definition. Andracken soldiers are also highly precise in their fire and will only target enemy combatants. Constructs we call Commanders are the ones who make the decision in the end however. While they have more free thought than soldiers, but they are no more than highly advanced ‘living’ war computers. They will act out in the way they see will lead to victory.” Fel opened her eyes, the calm expression still there despite the heavy subject.
Dirk Allen stood again and cleared his throat, glancing down at his tablet to check his information once more before speaking.
"The Andraken have, in the past, attacked the neutral nation of Hasorn unprovoked, broken treaties with the now defunct Western Regional League, and at the battle of Voi Conn destroyed a planet ostensibly as a 'show of force'. This of course, doesn't bring up the numerous times your government has acted belligerently in its foreign dealings. Why should any nation in the Avarian Frontier concerned about Andraken aggression trust anything your government has to say?"
“You are mistaken Mr. Allen, the Hasorn fired first in the conflict. As for the WRL I saw troubles with the Davians and was moving to have ties cut with them. The Battle of Voi Con was ordered by me, but the Commander of Singularity Prime made the decision to destroy the planet. Its actions were most likely a way to show the Davians that they could not hope to win. As for the other incidents you claim, I have no clue as to what you speak of.” Fel’s voice teetered on the edge of suspicion and defensive.
"The Hasorn only fired after Andracken forces had threatened to wipe out their military and civilian forces and charged weapons when the Hasorn refused to hand over some aspect of their technology. Since the first shots have been fired the Andraken have also conducted an indiscriminate bombing campaign of Hasrain that has and continues to rack up numerous civilian casualties. If your fire is so precise, why are so many non-combatants dead? Moreover, if your commanders are so willing to turn on their supposed allies and engage neutral factions for technology, once again I must ask: Why should any nation in the Avarian Frontier concerned about Andraken aggression believe anything you or your government has to say?"
“We only claimed that we would destroy the Hasorn military. As for the civilian casualties involved in the conflict, that was bound to happen when the Hasorn military started fighting within the Civilian areas. Our only targets have been the Hasorn soldiers, we cannot be held responsible if civilians are caught in the cross fire.” Fel’s face had changed from one of calm to an irritation. She paused and closed her eyes once again, when she opened them up her face changed to neutral once again. “Again, I must tell you that we will not attack unless provoked. There is also little to no value found in most governments found in the Avarian Frontier outside of the Singers of the Void and the TDA. We would have moved along without acknowledging their presence like one would an ant. But despite us not attack those of the Pact or showing any sign of aggression towards them, they decide against logic to form a defensive pact against something that statistically wouldn’t happen.”
"These are the aggressive types of comments I referred to earlier," Dirk Allen pressed on. "If you're so intent on peace, and in the pursuit of that peace called a press conference to assure the nations of the Frontier that they have nothing to fear from you, and that the Pact is the aggressor, why then are you insulting and antagonizing the member nations of the Pact? Furthermore, what was the justification for the violation of the Hasorn's sovereignty and the demand that they hand over technology to you in the first place? On what grounds could your government make such a demand?"
“I never said they were the aggressor, I said they were illogical. As for our justification? It is our prime directive to collect and study unknown forms of technology. Our creators gave that task to us and we will follow it.” Fel’s tone said that she wouldn’t be persuaded otherwise.
"Do you not feel that the very fact you will attack anyone who will not relinquish their technology to you is the entire reason the Askandar Pact was formed in the first place?" Dirk Allen said with a sigh. "Furthermore, another nation, the System, made a similar claim and has since been completely wiped out. What makes you think your nation can succeed where the System failed?"
“We have the added benefit of having all the time in the universe. We can simply wait if a particularly troublesome group impedes us. As for the Askandar Pact, it was to my information created on the basis of our activities with the Devine Davian Empire.” Fel responded. Ten who had remained quite smirked as he shifted in his seat.
Morely calmly interjected "Your highness, while you have all the time in the universe to collect and to study unknown forms of technology, do you think that the Andracken would be more open to obtaining them through diplomacy in the future? Your success with the Three Domains Alliance would likely open the doors to request to study their technology, create new technology with them as well as secure a vital relationship with another nation in close proximity to your own. The System failed in its attempt by trying to ask for the technology at the first contact, often leading to aggressive actions. The resulting conflict forced them to move and they were exterminated by their own mistakes. Would the Andracken consider alternative means to successfully complete their Prime Directive?"
Fel turned to Morely “We have attempted this in the past, yes. And we are doing so with some of the current nations here. But some nations aren’t as foregoing as others. But we are striving for more diplomatic ways of completing our Prime Directive.”
"So, if you are open to the prospect of diplomacy, would the Andracken, and your highness, be inclined to meet with the leading members of the Askandar Pact on neutral ground to discuss the prospect of a peaceful end to the tension? This would, in theory, help to ease the fears from the members of the Askandar Pact of possible Andracken aggression, show to them that the Andracken are open to the prospect of peace and to show the galaxy at large that you have fearsome warriors, but also excellent diplomats. If the members of the Askandar Pact refuse to meet with you, then it would likely show who the aggressor is in this tense situation." He stood respectfully, even bowing slightly at the mention of 'your highness' he was determined to know what the Andracken would do, and if they would themselves seek an end to the resentment and fear between the Andracken and the Askandar Pact.
Fel slowly nodded. “Yes, I must concur. That would hopefully ease tensions between us.” Fel stood up slowly. “If that is all then I hereby call this press conference adjourned.”