Post by EmperorMyric on Mar 22, 2021 16:41:13 GMT
The capital city of the UWA was considered the very heart of all of the systems under her control. And among all those who lived under her, they called her The Democratic City. Every piece of it was built by the people, for the people. And her nickname was La Chica Bella. The beautiful girl, as it was translated.
A part of the city was transformed into an open venue for the summit. To the north, a large hotel was used as accommodations for the guests while to the South, the local barracks would house any security the guests would bring. There was also a post office for sending and receiving messages from here and a small strip for spaceships and aircraft limited to the atmosphere. To the east, there was a great arrangement of chairs and tables and many other things, all of them set before a great platform that would carry the tables and chairs reserved for the very hosts and guests. There was also a vast section reserved for the press and observers. The rest was open air.
For now, it was time for the President and his Vice President to wait for their guests in this part of the city while the Secretary would greet them herself at the space port of the capital.
For all this, the invitations had been sent to the TDA and the DE already and secondary invitations to any potential observer or press agency from the DE and TDA were also sent.
Detailed also in the invitations were the requests of the UWA for the two factions to help them see what can be done to bring the UWA to either side and to make the people politically aware and involved.
Thrusting from their wormholes, the visage of the Hana's Solace, Trenchant, Conqueror and Duca d'Nuovo York, as well as a scattering of escort ships announced the arrival of the Dectrose Empire. Another ship, known in the Dectrothian Network as the "Western Serpent" was being used by a DGN camera crew as an unofficial ship at this time, the usual mining crew likely just happy to be sitting back and relaxing. The ships began to display IFF Identifications to the UWA around them, as they proceeded towards the planet.
It was something of a rare sight, with a Command Carrier present above another nation's home planet. Moreso that the ship displayed combat damage, like scars on an old predator, was a testament to the level of importance of this Summit to the Dectrose. Margheriti, alone in his quarters, was nervously sweating, he tried to remain calm, happy that he was pulled from his assignment to the south to meet Amastacia again, but the presence of Harbor and Fischer legitimately worried him. They had just returned from a conflict zone to the northwest, and by the looks of it, they had sustained heavy damage. Still, he did his best to connect to his RAVD node, and contact Amastacia, letting him know he was there.
On the other hand, Fischer carried with him a cargo that he sorely wished to return to it's owner, his usual demeanor of 'trying to save the galaxy', was not present this time. He and his fleet had left many to die, with no chance of escape. Bowing down in his command chair, he quietly prayed to the spirits that they found peace, and to guide him though. Alas, there was nothing but silence in his mind, as the Trenchant lumbered on. On the same page, Harbor was among those that had actually survived the conflict, and one of the few that had belonged to Battle Fleet Rho Omega. He was rolled temporarily into Fischer's fleet, but was asked to come from his first-hand accounts, and to act in rememberance of his now lost fleet.
Terri however, felt as if this would be a positive turning point in the Dectrose's relations, of course, the TDA had left the FDC meeting, but that was no reason to dislike them or harbor resentment against them. Even with the news from Fischer, she remained steadfast, knowing that blame would only lead to distrust and the breaking of vital relations. Still, she had questions, and she was determined to know the answers. The Dectrose fleet now hovered over the planet, as with the DGN, as they requested landing instructions for their shuttlecraft.
Director Samantha Rodgers smiled as she saw the invitation from the UWA. It seemed fate had smiled and now she was able to kill two birds with one stone. The UWA would become further allies of the Alliance and the Dectrose would be cut loose from all diplomatic ties they had. The needed no fleet only a diplomatic ship and a protection detail. The detail themselves merely looked like well-dressed body guards but there was more to them then met the eye. Accompanying her was a small team of aides to assist her if she needed it, they held all relevant information that was needed as well documents and paper work to solidify deals with the UWA. The journey to the ‘Democratic city’ was short and tranquil above the planet a black light brimmed portal opened up and the diplomatic vessel emerged and immediately broadcasted its IFF and clearance to land on the planet.
“Alright, listen in people.” Samantha addressed her party as they gave her their undivided attention.
“Name of today’s game is shock and awe, then hearts and minds. The UWA is having trouble choosing which of us to be friendlier with we’ll make it easier for them. We’re gonna expose the Dectrose for they really are then we’ll show the UWA just how good life can be. Got it?” She was met with agreeing gestures from her party.
Admiral Amastacia and Admiral Stonecutter, both seasoned officers respectively in exploration and combat, would have the chance to meet their respective comrades once again. While Stonecutter would have to wait for her TDA comrades, Amastacia was excited, unable to remain in her seat, to see the Dectrose and her lover, Mergheriti, once again.
For her own detail, she had command once again of her old ship when she met him as well as the actual Home Fleet of Alondra the planet. The Home Fleet consisted of the mighty Dreadnoughts, testament to the ship builders and military industrialists of Alondra and Veneshia combined. She had, under her, exactly 6 large ships and more than a dozen smaller ships serving escort and patrol duties.
The greeting of the UWA was delivered by the Admiral Amastacia, sending a holographic and audio message to each of the Dectrose ships.
In the message, she saluted them and then put down her hand and said "Good day. Welcome to the United Worlds of Alondra. I am Admiral Amastacia of the United Fleets. I am temporarily in command of the Home Fleet and my old ship. I give my regards to dear Admiral Mergheriti for his great effort to bring us together for this occasion as well as Admiral Terri. Worry not, I have your black coffee. Anyway, please be informed that I would have to be the one to inspect your fleet for any hazards to our system. If any ship is found carrying cargo that isn't suitable for the summit, I recommend you leave that ship several distances away from the planet and keep it in contact with the Home Fleet. If all else goes well, I will be happy to send you the coordinates to the space port for dropping off your delegation to the summit and if need be, we will refuel and resupply you for your journey home after the summit. Accommodations have also been made for you and your delegation at the local barracks and other military installations made available.
For now I will be transmitting to you the following dos and don'ts while you are staying in Alondra."
She immediately ended the message and transmitted the tourists guide to Alondra to them. She then continued the message
"Please read them carefully. Additionally, we will be expecting that this summit will be extremely high profile. Therefore, we hope that in the event of a conflict on or around or nearby Alondra, you will assist me and the Home Fleet in eliminating any danger. If there is nothing more, we shall proceed.
Welcome to the United Worlds, home of democracy, freedom and unity."
She then ended it for good and squeed with delight in front of her officers. Some smiled and others laughed. Her XO was well. But both she and her XO didn't let that take them over as they saw the damage taken by the two ships of the Dectrose Empire, the Trenchent and the Conquerer. It made Amastacia narrow her eyes and wonder what caused the damage and the XO immediately whispered to herself that this could be incredibly suspicious. Who engaged the Dectrose? Would our next guests be the ones who did this to them? Amastacia shook it off and hoped the best for Stonecutter, who spoke so much and well enough on behalf of the TDA due to their assistance in curbstomping the rebellion on Satembi.
Without waiting for the Dectrose to reply though, Amastacia already had her ships begin to inspect the Dectrose ships using their sensors and scanners. On the other hand, Amastacia sent another message to the ships, requesting permission to send UWA Naval Infantry to give a closer inspection of what was in the ships. She however added that they can politely refuse but their ships will have to stay away from the planet.
On the last note, the Dectrose can clearly see that the Dreadnoughts, untested but mighty in weaponry and appearance, were also beginning to move around the fleet, as if getting ready to broadside them if things did not go as the UWA want. The Dreadnoughts displayed their names, the Ivona and Phaedrus. Only two were approaching the Dectrose to take a look at them and to show themselves off to the empire how a democracy can make such ships.
As for the coming TDA, Admiral Stonecutter...let her jaw drop when all she saw of their coming was just a diplomatic ship. She had her own fleet, which had the Dreadnought named the MANAL AL SHARIF, and several destroyers and some cruisers, out there.
But nevertheless, she overcame her surprise and sent a message to the TDA, saying
"I am Admiral Stonecutter. It is good to see you again. I am happy to welcome you to the UWA."
The Dectrose where quick to respond to the greeting "It's good to be here, your world is quite the beautiful sight" Terri joyfully replied "I'll be looking forward to that coffee when we land, I'm quite interested to see how well the coffee, and the summit, is." The message from Margheriti was one he made in private, but he had mentioned tulips and carrots in his message, sure to provoke a smile from Amastacia. Both the Hana's Solace and Duca d'Nuovo York proceeded to the planet's orbit, settling in and awaiting the inspection to finish. In their manifests they declared a company of ATAF assets, meant for Terri and protection services, Margheriti carrying quite a large amount of STIU personnel, stating it was for the protection of all present during the summit, and requesting that they be placed on the planet under command of the UWA's own security forces for the duration of the summit.
The Trenchant slowly backed off from the planet, requesting to be sent communication lines with the Home Fleet, although the Conqueror joined the other two in orbit. Harbor was suprised to see the TDA bring so little to the summit, considering he was the first among the Dectrose to meet their nation. So far, the Western Serpent stayed in place, waiting for the inspection to clear so the news crews could go down to the surface. At this time, Terri added "Amastacia, I wish to inform you that the Dectrose will be on guard during the summit, if anyone attacks during this prestigious event, the Dectrose assures you that we will stave off their assault together."
All ships present declared that they had onboard standard combat loadouts, and detailed them. Trenchant and Conqueror requested repair aid, if it was available, and the Naval Infantry was greeted warmly onboard the Dectrose ships. Fischer, looking out through the RAVD nodes, gave the first smile in a while, seeing the Dreadnoughts flex their strength towards the Dectrose. He softly whispered "A young nation, we're not here to compare ourselves to them, it's better to celebrate accomplishments. Though as they say, Democracy, Freedom and Unity, I hope it stays that way.." Before his smile vanished again into the abyss of his thoughts.
It was then that the Trenchant explained why they backed away from the planet. In their manifests they declared many captured TDA Marines, stating that they where captured onboard Dectrose ships during a conflict near the galactic core, and they wish to return them to the TDA as soon as possible. It stated their current health statuses individually, as well as names and ranks if available. Once again, to this effect, they requested repair to several critical systems that remained damaged.
“Thank you for the welcome it’s good to be back and on friendlier turns then last time, as you can see we left the army at home.” Samantha said sarcastically.
“My pilot is sending our declarations now, it’s nothing too much.”
Listed in the Alliance declarations were the various tablets and phones by the party members, a camera from the local Alliance news outlet, all the passengers and pilot which numbered ten government officials, three reporters and two pilots as well as the director and the body guard unit of ten agents and their weapons. It was outlined that they were there for the security of the director. Samantha turned back to her party leaving the pilots to continue their approach to the city, one of the aides present was quick to speak up when she did.
“Ma’am do you think we should of bought a fleet over too”
“Son, the navy is a broad sword that is only there to send relativistic ordinance at our enemies not for a political statement. Would you of preferred us to take a strike group off the roster to fulfil the need here and leave ourselves compromised if something were to happen?” she replied harshly
“Uhh no ma’am, sorry ma’am” the aide responded meekly
“Don’t be sorry be smart, everyone has a role to play ours is diplomacy. Remember that. What outfit did you serve in son?”
“Ma’am I was in naval logistics.”
“Goddamned, over decorated warehouse worker, remember your dealing with people now not supplies, they’ll judge not only you but your nation for what you say today, and this goes for everyone. Don’t open your mouth to answer anything you weren’t briefed in. are we clear?” she snapped at her party which replied in unison to acknowledge her.
Admiral Stonecutter herself checked the declaration of men and equipment they had on board and after a little while plus some scanning from one of her ships, they told the TDA
"Okay! Looks like you guys can be the first to go. Head to the space port. I'll transmit the coordinates and other info you need as you go."
Repairs would be given without delay to the wounded ships, Amastacia promising to show the Dectrose their greatness in repairing things. On the one hand, communication lines were also established as the Naval Infantry and the United Fleets began transmitting their own lines to the DE, slowly taking over command of the security forces contributed by the Dectrose.
The only issue was the fact that the Trenchent contained several captured TDA Marines...which belonged to their other guest. The admiral was not pleased and sent a rather scolding message against the one in charge of the ship carrying them, Amastacia strongly saying "You better get yourself quarantined. For this, I cannot allow your presence on the surface. You will remain in your ship for the duration of the summit on my official demand as part of regulation."
And then she cut him off from her comm line. But her mood was restored thanks to Mergheriti
Nevertheless, all the other ships were inspected rather quickly and without any delay, letting the Hanas Solace and the York pass through and then the Serpent and Conquerer.
"Of course, we will comply with any demands you make regarding our cargo." Fischer stated in return, he had made his report to Terri, and she outranks him regardless, his absence won't affect anything that happens on the surface. For now, he went to make sure the TDA Marines where in good shape. The shuttlecraft containing the STIU personnel, now in command of the UWA's Security Forces, moved to the surface, to reinforce the security measures already in place. The ATAF sent three shuttles of their infantry, various different armors and weapons present on them as they moved to provide personal security to Terri and the other officers. Harbor, Terri and Margheriti also joined the throng, moving down to the surface, leaving their XO's in charge of the ships they left behind. Soon enough, the shuttles would find their designated landing pads, and the Admirals and Captain Harbor would meet at Terri's pad before moving on.
The DGN began to take pictures of the planet, anything they could get on the TDA's presence, the Dectrose ships in orbit, and then once satisfied, proceeded down, Reiter figured that this would be interesting, considering all the variables involved. The TDA, who left the FDC meeting, are here now, the events at Threshold where already known to the Dectrothian Network, and Morgan for the moment was officially labeled 'MIA', but presumed KIA, as her clone didn't activate, same as Admiral Ryn. The Dectrose held onboard the Trenchant the captured TDA Boarders, who by all officially released accounts, where made hostile by an as-of-yet unnamed force much like the Dectrose crews at Kaikoma's destruction. Speculation pointed the blame at Skalia, but such were only rumors without any solid facts involved. For now though, she was eager to get planetside, and get to the summit.
Secretary Blue and her Carlist (very religious red beret wearing believers and followers of Javier, supporters of their own monarchist and democratic party) guards welcomed the coming Dectrose officers. Her Carlists assumed formation and greeted them with a synchronized rifle salute followed by Secretary Blue speaking to her guests "Welcome to the city. We will be expecting you at the summit grounds. We hope you enjoy your stay. For the occasion, all refreshments and food are for free. Thanks to Amastacia, we were also able to prepare food and drink suitable to your species, whatever it may be. I also invite you and your companions to enjoy yourselves before the summit officially begins."
Meanwhile, the Voice of Little Alondra and the universal network of UWA media called the UWA FPA or Free Press Agencies, met their Dectrose counterparts, welcoming them PlanetSide.
On the other hand, Amastacia left her XO to take care of the Home Fleet and their Dectrose counterparts. Her shuttle took her and brought her PlanetSide in time to meet Mergheriti again, giving him an embrace and a proper salute graced by the rifle salute of her own guards. And as a sign of personal respect and promise, Amastacia herself served Terri with her first cup of black Alondran coffee.
“Everyone ready?” Samantha asked her group as the ship landed at the space port. She was met with a solid ‘ma’am’ from everyone.
The group followed the instructions of their guides and boarded a train to the conference location in the city. On their journey many took notes of what they could see; architecture, clothing, foods, aliens and everything in between as they enjoyed the ride. It wasn’t long before they arrived to their location where they disembarked the train and awaited their hosts to greet them there.
Giving a light-hearted smile, Terri gave a salute back to Secretary Blue, and thanked her "You are too kind, your hospitality is greater then most people can strive for. Please give Amastacia my.. thanks.." She noticed the Admiral incoming, jokingly saying "Margheriti, you've got a bogey at your twelve o' clock, prepare for impact." As Amastacia and Margheriti embraced, and a salute was given. Terri graciously accepted the Alondran coffee giving her thanks for the coffee and for her research in their food, and took a testing sip, before nodding in approval, and taking another sip before she spoke to Margheriti in a sing-song tone "You want us to leave you here or do you think we can get comfortable?"
He nodded, and gave his Amastacia a quick kiss "Alright, let's get going then, Amastacia, you want to show us where we'll be staying?" His smile was like a fortress, there was nothing that could beat it down now, as he and Amastacia remained close together as they got underway.
The DGN Reporter Maria Reiter introduced her RAVD Drone, her engineer and her security guard to the members of the FPA, thanking them for the oppurtunity to record such an event, and began to go to their assigned area, seeing where to set up camp for the duration of the summit.
Amastacia did her best to lead her Dectrose guests to where they would stay for a while before anything about the summit itself could begin. Meanwhile, however, she spoke to the guests "I hope I can speak to you first about your fellow admiral and the cargo he had in his ship. I must warn you that if my leadership knows about this, they will not be very pleased. Especially the Vice President. Although she supports your nation, she cannot accept something like this being brought to an international summit."
On the other hand, FPA Reporter Danada Karika was happy to meet Maria. She smiled at her and said "Welcome to Alondra." And offered an embrace.
Again, there were many life forms. Humans, human hybrids, Alon, Senai and Syrans as well as new additions to the UWA such as the humanish Azenistas and what not.
All could simply say that all the species that were citizens or in the process of becoming citizens were only humanoid or human.
The one who would greet and address the TDA would have been General Styrodo, a comrade of the TDA during the rebellion on Satembi. He smiled and said "Hello. How was the train trip?"
Upon glancing into the kitchen to make sure everything was in order, Terri held her hand up in response to Amastacia "We have nothing to hide from your nation, be it good or bad. The TDA Marines held on Fischer's ship where the ones that had boarded Dectrose ships at the Battle of Threshold, and under the influence of the Shades that where present, damaged and destroyed many ships of Fischer and Morgan's fleets. Morgan herself is declared MIA, and presumed KIA. If anything, the exchange is a show of trust and good will towards the TDA, and to show your nation that we can and will forgive."
She continued "The Empire won't hold them for any longer than it will take for the TDA to pick them up, they're not criminals, and we will hold no charges against them, as it was not their choice to engage the Dectrose. We simply wish to be as transparent as possible, regardless of what opinion is made. Besides, our business with the TDA shouldn't be hidden in the shadows, and you should have the right to know what is happening. Speaking of which, we do wish to know if they will continue to support the various pacts we made together, or if the TDA's withdrawl from the FDC Meeting means a total withdrawl from relations."
Reiter was a little out of her element, but accepted the embrace none-the-less, she thanked Karika for the warm welcome, and asked if there where any spots to eat, then set-up for the summit.
“General Styrodo I presume? Director Rodgers Ancerious Colonial Expedition, pleasure to meet you. I’ve read the reports of Satembi you and your soldiers do damn fine work I must say.” Samantha smiled politely as she extended a hand to greet the general
The kitchen was large enough to allow five men to cook at different stoves, three men to wash dishes and two men to prepare ingredients. On the other hand, she said "I understand and I accept your words yet I must say again that it wasn't welcome. Perhaps in the future, please inform us about such things before coming to the summit so we wouldn't be so....alarmed."
Karika simply nodded and said "There are. Would you like to eat with us? You're lucky that we're headed to a big place for all you can eat buffets!"
The general smiled and shook Samantha's hand. He responded "Thank you, Director. It isn't my glory though. It belongs to your nations army and navy. You helped us. We appreciate it. Please, what can I do for you to repay you?"
She gave a slow nod "I apologise for the misunderstanding, however, the reasonings stand that those Marines are here to be publically transfered to the TDA. if they won't accept them, then we can take them in for residence and care until our diplomats can sort things out." Terri leaned on he kitchen counter with a cup, filling it "Though that is why we are here, to figure out if your nation wants to choose the Three Domains Alliance or the Dectrose Empire."
She stopped, her cup full as she sipped it "If it where up to me, there would be no choosing and we could all coexist, but sadly it's not the case. Whatever opinion is formed over those marines in space, at least let it be known that our affairs are clear to your nation."
Glancing back at her guard, he shrugged and nodded his head, indicating he could go for a bite to eat, so she joined them, asking if Dectrothian Credits where good currency in the UWA.
“Nonsense General, we merely held the backline while you took the initiative with your 41st spears. You won an excellent victory although a little reckless for my tastes.” She chuckled.
“There’s no need to repay us anything either we have no debt, helping friends costs nothing.” She stopped for a moment to light a cigarette before continuing the walk with Stryodo
“But this conference call is concerning and we have information that your nation needs to know. We’re not sure if it’s something you already know about the Dectrose but after today you probably won’t want to be associating your nation with them to put it plainly.” She blew a cloud a smoke into the air before taking another drag.
The Admiral paid her attention to them very well and when they were done, she blinked momentarily and then motioned to the rest of her guests, saying "All right. Very well. I'd like to invite you to rest for a while and to eat and drink before we officially begin our first international summit."
As for the Dectrose press, the UWA reporter nodded and said "No problem! Actually, I'll treat you!"
Stryodo listened and quietly said as soon as she finished "Reasonable. So before this summit must begin, I'd like to ask you about what you wish to present to us. Surely, if I am not mistake, you intend perhaps to discredit the Dectrose and bring us to your interest? Excuse me for my guess but I hope I mean well."
Samantha stopped dead in her tracks, taking another drag before she answered the general’s question.
“Discrediting the Dectrose isn’t something we’ve come here to do no, what we’re doing is giving you the information you need to make a tough choice for your nation nothing more nothing less. Now let’s go and get this conference started and get it out of the way.” Samantha gestured the general to lead the way.
With a slow sidestep towards Amastacia, Margheriti joined her side, eager to put diplomacy and business to rest as well. Harbor was already on the provided furniture, distracting himself for the time being. "Of course, provided we have enough coffee to drown a ship, I don't forsee any issues, thank you greatly Amastacia, for your most hospitable welcome" Terri concluded in her happy, sing-song voice. The three Dectrose then settled in, ate and rested before putting on their more formal attire.
Purple ISF uniforms with black and white details where the call for the summit, Terri in her most impressive-looking Grand Assault Fleet Admiral uniform adorned with several rows of medals, straightened out her cuff as she waited for the others. Margheriti donned his Admiralty uniform, happy to have spent some time with Amastacia before getting ready.
Holding things up however, was Harbor, only being a Captain, his role was to be present for the late-Fleet Admiral Morgan Rolland. It was still odd to him, why no one had ever used her last name, even though such was typically used with other admirals. On papers and documents it listed her as Fleet Admiral Rolland, but everyone had always referred to her as 'Fleet Admiral Morgan' in person. His thoughts where pushed away by the steady knock at the door from the STIU, shouting out "Almost ready!" before putting on his cap and briskly walking out to meet the others.
For the first time in a very, very long time, Reiter was stuffed. She was used to eating Ramaen and surviving on whatever her salary could afford her. She was excessively pleased with the food as well! She couldn't remember the last time something made her mouth water so much. She wanted to grab another plate, but her stomach ached in protest to the movement, before she surrendered and glanced to her right.
In her augmented eyes, she briefly went over the time, nodding to her co-workers "Alright gents, let's get this show on the road." She sighed, throwing her napkin on the plate like a boxer throwing in the towel.
Amastacia can only say "You're welcome." And leave it there while within her, she struggled to contain her very feelings of joy and for Him. She did her best to stay close to him as much as she could, as if she tried to absorb his love by embracing him gently and warmly. But in the end, she couldn't bear to let go. She whispered to him as he donned his best "You look wonderful. Please do your best in the summit."
Her UWA counterparts too took the chance to head out with them. They all left gracious tips to their waiters and cooks before they escorted the Dectrose press to the assigned areas as theirs.
"Very well." He said. He thought it was a response to be expected. As he marched them to the way they must go, he said "As you meet the President and the Vice President, simply shake their hands and smile. They're just like your own president and vice-president I suppose."
“Of course, it was President Shayrack Dergundy and VP Jalaja Al-Fulani correct?” she put her cigarette as she followed. The rest of the party was close behind since they had the crucial materials for the meeting.
The waiting gaze of the other Admirals hit Harbor as he walked out, for a moment he stood still, like a deer in the headlights, before shaking it off a bit. "Alright, well, here goes?" With a soft chuckle, Terri and the others set off for the summit.
DGN where quick to set up, soon enough, they connected to the comms equipment on the Western Serpent, and where broadcasting to the Dectrothian Network.
Ultrasina witnessed, from that moment on, the arrival of the TDA and the DE to the summit hosted by the UWA. As broadcasting also began on the UWA end, the hosts proud enough to show off the beginning of the summit to the galaxy, President Shayrack and VP Jalaja were waiting for their guests along with many UWA politicians, businessmen and VIPs invited to bear witness to this international event.
President Shayrack himself approached the delegates of both the DE and TDA by himself. After he faced them, he nodded to each group and then said to them "Welcome to Alondra. I hope you will find yourselves well in this summit. Will you please follow me to the platform?"
Samantha took a seat near the UWA President and Vice president the same as the Dectrose, as the rest of the Alliance delegation moved to the side of the stage. Samantha was uncomfortable sharing a table with people that were considered all but enemies of the state at this point. But she was professional and sorted throguh the neccesary documents for her presentation.
The STIU and ATAF agents where on alert, the open area presented several threats, but thus far, none had yet materialized. Still, it was good to have some paranoia, considering the weight of the event. Terri, Margheriti and Harbor all found their seating quite quickly, each setting their RAVD nodes before them, the interfaces immediately coming to life as they where waved at or touched by their owner.
Terri glanced at Samantha on the podium, and spoke to her in a volume she could easily hear "Congradulations on your election, I hope TDA will do well in your hands." before nodding and nursing her node, going over interfaces and folders on the device.
The President and the rest of his companions were now on the platform, seated between the TDA and the DE. They smiled at one another and then the Secretary was the first to speak
"Ladies and gentlemen, guests and all else, we welcome you to this summit in the capital of Alondra, the home of the UWA."
Applause. The secretary then said
"To begin this summit, we would like to invite our dear friends, the Dectrose, to speak for themselves first."
Terri lifted up from her chair, silent for a moment as her RAVD node adjusted a few things, and spoke "Thank you for having us here, though the circumstances could not be more dire." She looked towards the crowd "We find ourselves in this summit, not as friends and allies, but as competitors. Why is this? Why has the Three Domains Alliance suddenly sought to expel us from their wing? We have sought to help and assist the Three Domains Alliance from their earliest days, and to include them in our everyday lives. The same as we are trying to do with the United Worlds of Alondra. We wish to be colleagues, comrades and friends to both the TDA and UWA, but this summit has shown a darker side to these relations. Why?"
She inhaled, a downcast expression on her face "Due to an operation against a galactic threat, the Unnamed, whose ability to force stars to go supernova, and has done so repeatedly, cannot be left unchecked. We have fought such forces before at Thramas, in the territory of the Grand Araxium Empire, and have successfully beaten them back. However, this operation that was carried out included rogue agents of Triarch, who seek to help the Unnamed, the Black Sail Organization, and the Annointed. The combination of these forces, lead to the overall defeat of the allied forces, whom where not prepared, nor informed of such an evil coalition."
"We sought the assistance of the Three Domains Alliance, one of the nations we greatly trusted with our lives, to join us in an operation we had theorized was related to the Unnamed, and the Unnamed only. The Annointed tried to falsely claim the space of the Threshold, and had convinced the TDA to leave, we had attempted to explain the situation to the TDA prior to the allied Triarch attack, the resulting control of the 'Shades' forced on our own Marines, and the TDA lead to severe casualties on both sides."
She looked over to Samantha "That, my friends, is why we are here. The Dectrose called for aid, and they ended up being overwhelmed by enemy forces, the same with the TDA. We attempted to disarm a true weapon of mass destruction, and failed. Now the threat grows, and we are falling apart at the seams. Now is not a time for fool-hearty notions of choosing, now is a time to forge our shields together. The Dectrose simply want co-existence, for the UWA not to be forced to choose between their comrades and to be free to choose their own destiny. Isn't that what democracy is all about?"
"We may be a Stratocracy, and an Empire only in name, but the freedoms of our people remain unviolated. Our economy is strong, and has weathered the storms of the Black Sail Organization, and Skalia's destruction of Kaikoma, our military is steadfast, and more than eager to give their lives for our allies, we have more than enough men and ships to not only protect ourselves, but our friends in times of peace and conflict, as well as materials to help rebuild anything that is lost. The price of freedom is high, the Dectrose have paid that price, and will pay that price again for their allies."
She looked at both the Vice President and President for a moment, before sitting back down, and sipping at her coffee.
Samantha was surprised at what the Dectrose had to say the fact that they had just now revealed the truth about a situation that would of left Alliance scientists and investigators scratching their heads for a long time. It also showed her that their deceptions ran much deeper then she initially thought and she would use that against them here and now. She grabbed one of the display drives from her pocket and held it tightly as she stood up and made her way to the podium.
“Firstly I’d like to introduce myself I’m Director Samantha Rodgers and secondly I’d like to thank the people of the United Worlds of Alondra for hosting this event. Your city and planet are defiantly something else and you should be proud of what you’ve built here.” She spoke softly as she placed the display driver down on the podium and switched it on. It displayed a list large enough to be read by the entire audience, the list itself started scrolling down on it were portraits of Alliance military personnel with their names, ranks, and worlds of origin next to them.
“The Dectrose say that they trusted us with their lives, but I can’t say the same thing. What you’re seeing now is a casualty list from the Threshold incident. Over two million lives were snuffed out or existence. And it is as Admiral Terri says it is a galactic threat but it was one we were unaware of and uninformed about until it was too late. Even now information that could have been critical was kept from us.” She stepped to the side and turned her head towards the Dectrose delegation
“You come here and tell not us but a whole conference of people that our people were controlled by some ’Shades’ but not once not even during the battle were we told anything about the enemies capabilities for such paranormal abilities.” She turned to face the audience again.
“Actually to correct myself our logs show a data packet transmitted to our fleet, as they were leaving now normally such a packet would be analysed but since we were on our way out it was deemed a non-issue. And while we are clarifying somethings I’d like to say that the Alliance did not come here as a competitor. Diplomacy isn’t a game to game to be won when making fiends we’ve come here to provide your President and his constituents’ information about the Dectrose.” Her voice went from sombre to boisterous
“The fact that the Dectrose see this as a competition goes to show that they see the UWA as nothing more than a tool they can use. Will they bring such threats as the destruction of Kaikoma to your worlds? Surely you are also aware that they have helped and perhaps will continue to help the APP, led by none other than Capitol a nation that stands in polar opposite in ideals to democracy; you can find news that backs up these claims by the way.” She stopped for a moment to calm herself down she was getting quite into this speech.
“Ladies and Gentlemen, Mr President to conclude what I’m saying is that the Dectrose cannot be trusted and I beseech you to not make the same mistake we did and have it cost you so many lives of good honest citizens of your nation. Once again I’d like to thank the UWA and its people for having me here today, and I bid you all a good day and Gods bless the Three Domains Alliance and the United Worlds of Alondra.” She raised one arm up to wave to the crowd as she returned to her seat taking the display drive with her and turning it off.
The President was silent. But the rest of the UWA guests and officials present were not. One half was clearly rooting for the Dectrose, a collection of insults and questions gathering against the TDA. On the other half, people were attempting to question the Dectrose. But this all meant chaos and division. At this, the Secretary raised her hand towards her guards nearby and they nodded, quickly creating a line against the crowds and the commander shouted, silencing them
"Silence! The summit continues!"
At once, after all was well again, the President said
"While I can now express that the United Worlds of Alondra owes the Dectrose friendship and trust, especially over how Admiral Amastacia made our bond with the Dectrose true with Admiral Mergheriti, I must speak for the UWA that it is indeed true that the UWA has more debt towards the TDA, especially for their contribution to the Satembi Rebellion and in putting it down and also for conducting the same things to ensure a good relationship.
But when I heard all these from both parties, I cannot help but be disturbed."
He turned to the Dectrose, most especially to Terri and he said
"Tell me, dear Admiral, will you wish to defend the honor of your empire and the reputation of your navy and most of all, the status of your name before me and my people in the face of what this lady, Director Samantha Rodgers of the TDA, is saying? What shall be the course that you will wish to take on behalf of the empire you claim to represent and so bear their name and honor?"
Then to the TDA, the President stated
"Director Samantha, my dear lady, is there anything else you wish to say towards the other party that you think we really should hear? If it were up to me alone, I would have cared more about keeping the relations of both TDA and DE with the UWA intact. But now that you claim that your ally has lied to you and that you seem to place a great part of the fault of the losses of your naval infantry and sailors towards the DE, I must ask you seriously to consider what you have said and again, tell us more or show us more. If not, I invite you to speak your mind and be honest not only to me, but to the UWA, to the DE and to the rest of the galaxy. As here before you and even Admiral Terri, all our media is displaying this."
He then told both women
"Please speak wisely afterwards and ensure that not only will the UWA be impressed but also the galaxy."
"Madame president, we have always sought to defend our honor and reputation that most benefited our people's freedoms and their wishes. What the Three Domains Alliance states is true, we had not informed them of such during the battle, our very own Psionic defenses had failed, and where utterly no match for such brute force. Same goes with the APP, we have trade agreements with Capitol, and we have business dealings with both Triarch and Rangvald. Though our reasoning for this is quite simple."
"The APP has never demanded that we take down the Oracle, held captive our personnel, conducted stealth missions inside our territory, made useless an entire planet and never once threatened us with civilian casualties on an enormous scale. Faced with such, we have turned to support the APP economically. While we are aware of the situation with Capitol, rest assured that actions are being taken by our diplomats to remedy the curse that befalls them."
She leaned back now. "Though this does not mean we aren't negotiating with the AGA to clear the air, and find some semblance of peace. We may not support the AGA, but we are not seeking any actions against them."
She stepped away from her seat, pacing in front of the table "Though Director Samantha speaks of millions of lives lost, we too shared in those casualties, the Annointed have soul capture technology, and negate our ability to be reborn in a clone body if we perish in battle.. We have been in countless battles, and not once had we turned against our comrades after a loss. Though if it's trust that is in focus, let me remind those here that Kaikoma was lost, with 10.3 billion lives, in order to save a single Artificia, whom the Dectrose are not in good relations with, and tried to save her from the grasp of the Shades."
"In Thramas, we threw ourselves at an unknown enemy, attempting to detonate a supernova in the GAE's territory, we lost lives and ships to protect a nation we didn't know very much. The same is said for the Danovans, who are under attack by a hostile force, and again, we thrust ourselves into the gathered enemy to try and save them. The Dectrose are willing and able to defend the existence of all races in this galaxy, and should the TDA give out the call for help, even after what is said today, the Dectrose will still come running to assist."
She stopped pacing, now addressing Samantha "What Samantha has stated today, I agree. This is not a competition, and the UWA should not have to choose between us. Let us have coexistence, let us mend the rift that has widened, and let us have peace between our nations, so that we may be stronger together. The Dectrose value your nation, Director, and we've accomplished great things together, from Multi-Role Fighters to Wormhole Gates, let us put aside this squabble and embrace one another as friends."
She looked into the eyes of both the President and Director, before returning to her seat. "We can help the TDA with psionic defense technology, cloning technology and more, the same offer is open to the UWA. We can protect your systems and your people with our armor and soldiers, we promise you this."
Samantha chuckled to herself at the end of Terri’s speech. Do they really think they can get away with these deceptions and half-truths? She stood up again to take the podium this time the look on her face was one of annoyance that this summit was still continuing this far, she cleared her throat before she started speaking.
“I ask the Dectrose when is the deception going to end. When will you stop the lying and telling half-truths to these good people? You just now admitted that you are economically supporting Capitol and helping them prolong a war that has wiped systems from the galactic map and killed untold billions. The reason why the AGA is hostile to you is because you’re all but in the APP. In a recent press conference it was revealed that the Dectrose were harbouring the Z1 an APP super weapons capable of the same destructive power of the crucible.” She paused to catch her breath
“I’m afraid that we cannot co-exist and we cannot be friends, unlike your nation the will of the people not a handful of people has decided that it should be as such. They cannot find it in their hearts to ally our nation who stands as hypocrites who want to try to save and protect everyone but then condone the subjugation, enslavement and deaths of millions of people with their choice of allies and other actions. If you truly wanted to protect people you’d cut ties with the APP as to what I’ve said before you’ve decided to all but join them. You can offer as much technology and cooperation as you want in a desperate attempt to get us to join and forgive but it won’t happen ever. The Three Domains Alliance and hopefully the United Worlds of Alondra will stand together as Bastions of Democracy where our ideals will not only survive in this galaxy but thrive.” She stopped to look at President Shayrack
“My President I think we’ve heard enough and I think it’s time to come to a decision, the case has been made on both sides and it’s time to choose. Who will it be a brother in arms in democratic ideals or an autocratic deceiver who condones actions that stand as an affront to our ideals?” She left the podium and took her seat.
The uproar was tremendous, a literal wave of people standing up and protesting, all of them against the Dectrose. Even those who once supported them turned against them now. And only Admiral Amastacia chose to stand up for the Dectrose. She ran from her side to the side of her lover and stood before the crowd, looking from left to right, To her side and to the side of her lover, Amastacias close officers and soldiers rushed to protect them.
The entire crowd present at the summit was now attempting to mob the Dectrose and Amastacia but only the words of the Vice President, who was clearly upset but strong willed, said "ENOUGH! SIT DOWN, ALL OF YOU!"
And they did, gradually so.
Then spoke the President "The United Worlds of Alondra has made its decision. But I cannot express it right now until I get more evidence, more words to make both of your points stronger. Because if I make this decision right now without knowing more, I may or may not lead my own faction into war and chaos."
The President said to the Director "Allow yourself to listen, please, without your hard feelings against them, to the Dectrose."
And to the Admiral, he said "Please explain yourselves. While obviously your connections to the Capitol has....strongly offended us, please explain."
He added "We will listen if you are willing to say why and what are you trying to accomplish."
As she was about to get up, Margheriti stood instead, slamming his hands on the table before him and his eyes glowing orange, in stark contrast to his pale face "Deceptions? Half-Truths? Can you not see beyond your own small xenophobic view to see that you can't solve every problem with a gun? You say that our support will prolong the war, well I hate to break it to you but the Crucible is destroyed, Rubikon is gone, the AGA used superweapons against one of those planets and killed civilians without remorse, we've even heard rumors that the Blinker fleet was dealt a heavy blow. Has the AGA asked for an end to the war?"
"As far as the Z1, it doesn't have the same destructive power of the Crucible, if you checked your own sources. Then you believe the words of a band of pirates, that threatened to send the AGA to destroy a civilian center, unleashed a massive cyber attack on Uproth to make it useless, because they tracked some ghost trails in space? And you know who we found on those pirate ships? An Annointed Shield Guardian named Ash, who was sent with them by, guess who, Skalia. The same one that destroyed Kaikoma. But you seek to back the AGA? If you want to uncover the truth, I'd start with your misguided beliefs you put int he AGA."
He slowed down, walking towards Samantha "But you want to know why we're supporting Capitol? Sure, because you cannot convince a nation to stop using slaves one day and not expect resistance. The economy would collapse, the nation would fall apart, and that goes against our beliefs. Our plan was to help Capitol economically, send diplomats over and ask them over a period of time to rotate the slaves into a free life, while we, the Dectrose, help them cope and even replace those slaves with our own workforce if needed. But if someone, like the AGA, demand that they remove the slavery with force, guess who dies first in battle?" He let the question hang there, then continued.
"You risk the lives of those slaves, and our operation with your slandering, your curt attitude, your dishonor. Then, you have the gall to call yourselves a democracy, but demand that this nation, the nation of my lover, to choose to either be free to choose their destiny or enslaved to your sick imperialistic version of democracy? Then if you accomplish such, and we're forced out, will you protect them the way we would? Will you stand up to the coming storms of vile enemies of the Unnamed, Shades and more?" The Admiral was now directly in front of Samantha "Because as we've seen it, the TDA lost over 20 thousand soldiers to the Davians, and you didn't even appear at the battle for Voi Con to avenge them."
He pushed himself away "While you struggle with rebellions within your own nation, the Dectrose are out there, shedding blood and losing ships against galactic threats. I think that shows that Dectrose strength and vision is much wider than the TDA can handle. We have more men, more ships, and a larger superweapon than the TDA, not to mention the best technology one can offer. So if it's a question of choice, the Dectrose are the bigger, stronger nation to ally with. Besides, do you see any TDA security out there? The TDA Navy protecting the system? I think not."
He sought Amastacia's side, holding her hand in his as he addressed the president "President, The Dectrose wish that you wouldn't have to choose, to destroy all the relationships made in our friendship. But the Three Domains Alliance offer you no choice, it's either us or them, but as it stands, we have more allies, more ships, more men, more economics, more freedom, more understanding, and more compassion than what they can conceivably offer you with only their nation alone."
"You know of the Auraxii's plight, and know that the Dectrose are heading there to restore those people to freedom, to work with the Inquisition to give the Auraxii people freedom, aid and a life worth living, We've heard of the UWA's presence, but do you hear of the TDA heading out there to help aid these people? Our scope is galactic, and with us, the UWA can help rid the scourge of slavery in this galaxy once and for all. With the TDA, you'll be a democratic puppet on a string, only moving to their whim and fancy."
Samantha sat silently and waited for the outburst to be over. When it was she turned to Terri with a scowl that would kill lesser beings.
“I’d much appreciate it if you could keep your subordinates in check Admiral, outburst like this get us nowhere.” She stood up to take to the podium to address the crowd
“Well folks you saw it here first, The Dectrose are going to replace slaves for Capitol, either they means they are secretly in the slave trade business and they are going to fuel the war machine of Democracy’s greatest rival. Is this really the type of ally the UWA need, someone who condones and supports the slave trade? Do they really need an ally that needs to flex their military might here and now? An ally that lets its officials have outbursts and threaten a nation they don’t see eye to eye with. Let me respond to some of the allegations that we have been accused of.” She cleared her throat and went over in her head what the Decrothian said.
“Firstly the UWA doesn’t need protection they are capable soldiers and sailors in their own right and I believe that no matter the threat they can and will stand triumphant. They don’t need the Dectrose babysitting them in some sort of nanny state being told who they can and can’t talk, where they can and can’t go, or being forced to send soldiers and sailors to their deaths in battle by your whims. I’d say your security is more concerning then comforting you could have us taken hostages at any time and force the hand of the UWA President. Once again I state that we have only come here to warn the UWA of your deceptions and offer to pick up the slack where you might have been helping them.”
“Secondly I’d like to say feel free to police the galaxy as much as you want, it doesn’t need it so why should we send our sons and daughters to die for nothing. You can gloat about how big you’re military is but I’m guessing the Dectrose have never heard of the saying ‘the pen is mightier than the sword’. Violence begets violence you are fuelling a cycle of turmoil with your constant policing even if you can’t see it yet. It’s much better to solve things diplomatically then throw troops and ships at a problem until it goes away.”
“Lastly I’d like to say that we are not an imperialist democratic power as you put it. We despise imperialism to the very core and our nation was founded on the beliefs that it should end. If the UWA does accept our friendship then they will be free to about their business as usual plus a few extra perks. We’ve seen the Allies of the Dectrose and let me tell you good people of the UWA, It’s more of the same autocratic states where the people don’t get a say in the ruling body. Even the Dectrose themselves are like this how can you even stand side by side with someone who stands as an affront to your nations ideology.” She stopped and turned to the UWA President
“Mr President I think we’ve heard enough from these people what is your decision going to be your true allies or these pretenders who will do nothing but lie to you. The evidence is all in the news for everyone to see if you still doubt me.” She sat back down in her seat and awaited the Presidents reaction
The President then said "Enough. It is time." And all went quiet, the president and his companions, the vice president and the secretary standing up. They faced the people and the President said "I have decided that, with my only vote, the United Worlds of Alondra shall go for the TDA." He turned to his vice president. The woman was so angry with him and with the director. The VP reportedly gave the director a dirty stare accompanied by a terrible frown. She then sighed and worriedly glanced at the Dectrose before telling the president, who had a sorry look for her, "I vote the same as well." The secretary simply nodded her vote. And the people?
Many of them gave their President a gesture all UWA citizens make when they want to say yes silently: A fist. Only a silent minority in the corner of the summit chose to make no such gesture.
And soon enough, the President declared "Today is the day the rest of my faction votes. The Dectrose or the Alliance?"
And as quickly as he spoke, the screens of televisions present in the summit and whatever displays or screens there were switched to what looked like a voting diagram that was being updated per vote.
And overwhelmingly, the votes were going for the TDA.
But even as the votes went for the TDA, many voted for the Dectrose. But soon enough, after several minutes, the entire UWA has voted.
The TDA was the pick of most of his citizens. The President sighed and he presented the results and he told the TDA
"We are with you."
To which, the horrified Admiral Amastacia declared "Mr. President!"
The President could only shake his head and say "It cannot be changed. That is the vote."
The Admiral then bit her lower lip and embraced her lover right there and now, her soldiers quickly resuming their protective formation around her and the Dectrose.
The Secretary then gave them the bad news "The only way you may publicly continue your relationship with your significant other is to either leave your rank behind and become a citizen of the Dectrose or you simply deal with it and just contact him via other means of communication that are still legal."
The Admiral, the woman, responded "Then I defect. And so shall those who wish to be loyal to me and the one I love."
It was the other woman's turn to chuckle, even given the light of the events "You misunderstand us much, Director Samantha, Fleet Admiral Margheriti here is part of the Admiralty board, he represents the interests of the Dectrose, and he's free to speak when he so chooses." She waved her hand as a form of saying 'cool off' "And spare us the dramatics, you should know full well that the Dectrose don't deal in slaves, the Annointed would have us gutted before we could blink, and speaking of, do tell your ally about the Hospitallars, I'm sure the conversation will be amusing. Once AGA can allow some room to maneuver, we have a plan in place, as Margheriti stated, to remove such negative influences from Capitol. Who knows, perhaps we can negotiate an end to this awful war, but inflaming comments like what you've stated only hinder that."
She stood up, Harbor joining her in such "Though, if you wish to lecture me over babysitting and ordering a nation around, please do yourself a favor and take a look in the mirror. The Dectrose will keep their offer open to the UWA, but you disappoint me, Samantha. Perhaps the campaign for your election requires a look into your history, like how the TDA turned their back on former allies, the Andracken and Davians, now the Dectrose. When will the trend of betrayal end Samantha?"
The Dectrose Admiralty gathered their nodes, thanked the president and UWA for allowing them to be here at this event and left the stage, it was clear that their presence was no longer needed. They thanked those along their way to their shuttles, Margheriti poking Terri "Uhm, Fleet Admiral Ma'am?" He was arm-in-arm with Amastacia, up until Terri suddenly stopped "Yes, You both are now going to be of equal rank, congratulations to both of you, and most of all, thank you for believing in us, ISF Fleet Admiral Amastacia." She paused, and chuckled "Well, Margheriti, don't be rude, stay here and help your lovely girlfriend pack her things, we'll be awaiting you at Decoroso." So Margheriti stayed, going along with wherever Amastacia took him to help her get packed for the departure.
Fischer was not as pleased, and opened up comms privately with Terri "So, TDA's playing the big game now, they grow up so fast. What are we going to do with the cargo?" Terri spoke back within her processor, inaudible to anyone around "Offer them up, if they don't want them, then we'll place them at Alqursan for evaluation. I trust repairs where sufficient?" There was a pause then he answered "Yes, you'd be surprised on how well these folks get to work. Though I doubt we're going straight to Decoroso." She nodded silently "Well, we have several ties to cut and gates to shut down, shore up defenses around such as well. I trust Landow is available?" He grumbled lowly "Of course, I'll direct him there."
Soon, Comms opened up from Fischer's ship to the TDA vessel "ISF Assault Fleet Admiral Fischer here, I got a bunch of TDA Marines, and I need to offload them, want them on your ship or should I get clearance to drop them on the planet? Otherwise, we can keep them cozy at Alqursan until you pick them up." Truthfully, Fischer too was disappointed, but there where always opportunities elsewhere. If the Dectrose where good at anything, they took what chances they where given.
Soon, the shuttles carrying the ATAF, Terri, Harbor and the STIU left the planet, bound for their ships, though the DGN stayed a little while longer.
Samantha smiled and walked over to her delegation and gave them congratulations for a job well done. The way was paved with further relations with the UWA and perhaps they could make another addition to the Alliance. In the meantime the Stranded Alliance Marines were offload planetside near the landed diplomatic ship. The Marines organised themselves into their units or rather what was left. Samantha saw personally to the retrieval effort with dozens of shuttles arriving in a mere moment’s notice to take them back to Anderson System HQ, where they would under several evaluations and be interrogated about what happened at Threshold. For now the UWA front would be left alone for a few days to cool off and see to any affairs that needed to be changed with the excommunication of the Dectrose.
Admiral Amastacia barely held her tears in as she left the summit, only saluting her former president and vice president with a frown and eyes that were close to breaking into bitter emotions. She turned with her men, leaving rapidly with her lover. Only after she felt that she was out of the eyes of the media and of the people did she give in to weeping, clinging to her lover as she confessed her love and also apologized for having to defect to his nation because of what happened.
However, to comfort her, some of her fellow admirals and generals who were close by simply stood as one and saluted her. Even those of greater rank than her did so and she accepted their gesture and saluted them back, even as she continued to feel her tears come out of her eyes.
Then she went to her own shuttle to bring her, her men and her lover to her residence and to her headquarters in order to begin preparing to leave the United Worlds of Alondra.
Only she would be the first and only admiral to be allowed by her government to defect to another because she loved an admiral like her.
For now, the Vice President gave the President her entire wrath and disappointment. She lashed out at him, she scolded him, she insulted him. Then she gave in to begging him to reconsider, to ask for another vote, to have another summit, to make a deal in secret with the Dectrose. But nothing was done. The Vice President separated herself from the President and Secretary, leaving for her own home. The Secretary stayed with her President and escorted him to his own residence, for the President was not shaken but exhausted by the summit.
Everyone else too left. And now the UWA was in the hands of not only their own government but the TDA.
A part of the city was transformed into an open venue for the summit. To the north, a large hotel was used as accommodations for the guests while to the South, the local barracks would house any security the guests would bring. There was also a post office for sending and receiving messages from here and a small strip for spaceships and aircraft limited to the atmosphere. To the east, there was a great arrangement of chairs and tables and many other things, all of them set before a great platform that would carry the tables and chairs reserved for the very hosts and guests. There was also a vast section reserved for the press and observers. The rest was open air.
For now, it was time for the President and his Vice President to wait for their guests in this part of the city while the Secretary would greet them herself at the space port of the capital.
For all this, the invitations had been sent to the TDA and the DE already and secondary invitations to any potential observer or press agency from the DE and TDA were also sent.
Detailed also in the invitations were the requests of the UWA for the two factions to help them see what can be done to bring the UWA to either side and to make the people politically aware and involved.
Thrusting from their wormholes, the visage of the Hana's Solace, Trenchant, Conqueror and Duca d'Nuovo York, as well as a scattering of escort ships announced the arrival of the Dectrose Empire. Another ship, known in the Dectrothian Network as the "Western Serpent" was being used by a DGN camera crew as an unofficial ship at this time, the usual mining crew likely just happy to be sitting back and relaxing. The ships began to display IFF Identifications to the UWA around them, as they proceeded towards the planet.
It was something of a rare sight, with a Command Carrier present above another nation's home planet. Moreso that the ship displayed combat damage, like scars on an old predator, was a testament to the level of importance of this Summit to the Dectrose. Margheriti, alone in his quarters, was nervously sweating, he tried to remain calm, happy that he was pulled from his assignment to the south to meet Amastacia again, but the presence of Harbor and Fischer legitimately worried him. They had just returned from a conflict zone to the northwest, and by the looks of it, they had sustained heavy damage. Still, he did his best to connect to his RAVD node, and contact Amastacia, letting him know he was there.
On the other hand, Fischer carried with him a cargo that he sorely wished to return to it's owner, his usual demeanor of 'trying to save the galaxy', was not present this time. He and his fleet had left many to die, with no chance of escape. Bowing down in his command chair, he quietly prayed to the spirits that they found peace, and to guide him though. Alas, there was nothing but silence in his mind, as the Trenchant lumbered on. On the same page, Harbor was among those that had actually survived the conflict, and one of the few that had belonged to Battle Fleet Rho Omega. He was rolled temporarily into Fischer's fleet, but was asked to come from his first-hand accounts, and to act in rememberance of his now lost fleet.
Terri however, felt as if this would be a positive turning point in the Dectrose's relations, of course, the TDA had left the FDC meeting, but that was no reason to dislike them or harbor resentment against them. Even with the news from Fischer, she remained steadfast, knowing that blame would only lead to distrust and the breaking of vital relations. Still, she had questions, and she was determined to know the answers. The Dectrose fleet now hovered over the planet, as with the DGN, as they requested landing instructions for their shuttlecraft.
Director Samantha Rodgers smiled as she saw the invitation from the UWA. It seemed fate had smiled and now she was able to kill two birds with one stone. The UWA would become further allies of the Alliance and the Dectrose would be cut loose from all diplomatic ties they had. The needed no fleet only a diplomatic ship and a protection detail. The detail themselves merely looked like well-dressed body guards but there was more to them then met the eye. Accompanying her was a small team of aides to assist her if she needed it, they held all relevant information that was needed as well documents and paper work to solidify deals with the UWA. The journey to the ‘Democratic city’ was short and tranquil above the planet a black light brimmed portal opened up and the diplomatic vessel emerged and immediately broadcasted its IFF and clearance to land on the planet.
“Alright, listen in people.” Samantha addressed her party as they gave her their undivided attention.
“Name of today’s game is shock and awe, then hearts and minds. The UWA is having trouble choosing which of us to be friendlier with we’ll make it easier for them. We’re gonna expose the Dectrose for they really are then we’ll show the UWA just how good life can be. Got it?” She was met with agreeing gestures from her party.
Admiral Amastacia and Admiral Stonecutter, both seasoned officers respectively in exploration and combat, would have the chance to meet their respective comrades once again. While Stonecutter would have to wait for her TDA comrades, Amastacia was excited, unable to remain in her seat, to see the Dectrose and her lover, Mergheriti, once again.
For her own detail, she had command once again of her old ship when she met him as well as the actual Home Fleet of Alondra the planet. The Home Fleet consisted of the mighty Dreadnoughts, testament to the ship builders and military industrialists of Alondra and Veneshia combined. She had, under her, exactly 6 large ships and more than a dozen smaller ships serving escort and patrol duties.
The greeting of the UWA was delivered by the Admiral Amastacia, sending a holographic and audio message to each of the Dectrose ships.
In the message, she saluted them and then put down her hand and said "Good day. Welcome to the United Worlds of Alondra. I am Admiral Amastacia of the United Fleets. I am temporarily in command of the Home Fleet and my old ship. I give my regards to dear Admiral Mergheriti for his great effort to bring us together for this occasion as well as Admiral Terri. Worry not, I have your black coffee. Anyway, please be informed that I would have to be the one to inspect your fleet for any hazards to our system. If any ship is found carrying cargo that isn't suitable for the summit, I recommend you leave that ship several distances away from the planet and keep it in contact with the Home Fleet. If all else goes well, I will be happy to send you the coordinates to the space port for dropping off your delegation to the summit and if need be, we will refuel and resupply you for your journey home after the summit. Accommodations have also been made for you and your delegation at the local barracks and other military installations made available.
For now I will be transmitting to you the following dos and don'ts while you are staying in Alondra."
She immediately ended the message and transmitted the tourists guide to Alondra to them. She then continued the message
"Please read them carefully. Additionally, we will be expecting that this summit will be extremely high profile. Therefore, we hope that in the event of a conflict on or around or nearby Alondra, you will assist me and the Home Fleet in eliminating any danger. If there is nothing more, we shall proceed.
Welcome to the United Worlds, home of democracy, freedom and unity."
She then ended it for good and squeed with delight in front of her officers. Some smiled and others laughed. Her XO was well. But both she and her XO didn't let that take them over as they saw the damage taken by the two ships of the Dectrose Empire, the Trenchent and the Conquerer. It made Amastacia narrow her eyes and wonder what caused the damage and the XO immediately whispered to herself that this could be incredibly suspicious. Who engaged the Dectrose? Would our next guests be the ones who did this to them? Amastacia shook it off and hoped the best for Stonecutter, who spoke so much and well enough on behalf of the TDA due to their assistance in curbstomping the rebellion on Satembi.
Without waiting for the Dectrose to reply though, Amastacia already had her ships begin to inspect the Dectrose ships using their sensors and scanners. On the other hand, Amastacia sent another message to the ships, requesting permission to send UWA Naval Infantry to give a closer inspection of what was in the ships. She however added that they can politely refuse but their ships will have to stay away from the planet.
On the last note, the Dectrose can clearly see that the Dreadnoughts, untested but mighty in weaponry and appearance, were also beginning to move around the fleet, as if getting ready to broadside them if things did not go as the UWA want. The Dreadnoughts displayed their names, the Ivona and Phaedrus. Only two were approaching the Dectrose to take a look at them and to show themselves off to the empire how a democracy can make such ships.
As for the coming TDA, Admiral Stonecutter...let her jaw drop when all she saw of their coming was just a diplomatic ship. She had her own fleet, which had the Dreadnought named the MANAL AL SHARIF, and several destroyers and some cruisers, out there.
But nevertheless, she overcame her surprise and sent a message to the TDA, saying
"I am Admiral Stonecutter. It is good to see you again. I am happy to welcome you to the UWA."
The Dectrose where quick to respond to the greeting "It's good to be here, your world is quite the beautiful sight" Terri joyfully replied "I'll be looking forward to that coffee when we land, I'm quite interested to see how well the coffee, and the summit, is." The message from Margheriti was one he made in private, but he had mentioned tulips and carrots in his message, sure to provoke a smile from Amastacia. Both the Hana's Solace and Duca d'Nuovo York proceeded to the planet's orbit, settling in and awaiting the inspection to finish. In their manifests they declared a company of ATAF assets, meant for Terri and protection services, Margheriti carrying quite a large amount of STIU personnel, stating it was for the protection of all present during the summit, and requesting that they be placed on the planet under command of the UWA's own security forces for the duration of the summit.
The Trenchant slowly backed off from the planet, requesting to be sent communication lines with the Home Fleet, although the Conqueror joined the other two in orbit. Harbor was suprised to see the TDA bring so little to the summit, considering he was the first among the Dectrose to meet their nation. So far, the Western Serpent stayed in place, waiting for the inspection to clear so the news crews could go down to the surface. At this time, Terri added "Amastacia, I wish to inform you that the Dectrose will be on guard during the summit, if anyone attacks during this prestigious event, the Dectrose assures you that we will stave off their assault together."
All ships present declared that they had onboard standard combat loadouts, and detailed them. Trenchant and Conqueror requested repair aid, if it was available, and the Naval Infantry was greeted warmly onboard the Dectrose ships. Fischer, looking out through the RAVD nodes, gave the first smile in a while, seeing the Dreadnoughts flex their strength towards the Dectrose. He softly whispered "A young nation, we're not here to compare ourselves to them, it's better to celebrate accomplishments. Though as they say, Democracy, Freedom and Unity, I hope it stays that way.." Before his smile vanished again into the abyss of his thoughts.
It was then that the Trenchant explained why they backed away from the planet. In their manifests they declared many captured TDA Marines, stating that they where captured onboard Dectrose ships during a conflict near the galactic core, and they wish to return them to the TDA as soon as possible. It stated their current health statuses individually, as well as names and ranks if available. Once again, to this effect, they requested repair to several critical systems that remained damaged.
“Thank you for the welcome it’s good to be back and on friendlier turns then last time, as you can see we left the army at home.” Samantha said sarcastically.
“My pilot is sending our declarations now, it’s nothing too much.”
Listed in the Alliance declarations were the various tablets and phones by the party members, a camera from the local Alliance news outlet, all the passengers and pilot which numbered ten government officials, three reporters and two pilots as well as the director and the body guard unit of ten agents and their weapons. It was outlined that they were there for the security of the director. Samantha turned back to her party leaving the pilots to continue their approach to the city, one of the aides present was quick to speak up when she did.
“Ma’am do you think we should of bought a fleet over too”
“Son, the navy is a broad sword that is only there to send relativistic ordinance at our enemies not for a political statement. Would you of preferred us to take a strike group off the roster to fulfil the need here and leave ourselves compromised if something were to happen?” she replied harshly
“Uhh no ma’am, sorry ma’am” the aide responded meekly
“Don’t be sorry be smart, everyone has a role to play ours is diplomacy. Remember that. What outfit did you serve in son?”
“Ma’am I was in naval logistics.”
“Goddamned, over decorated warehouse worker, remember your dealing with people now not supplies, they’ll judge not only you but your nation for what you say today, and this goes for everyone. Don’t open your mouth to answer anything you weren’t briefed in. are we clear?” she snapped at her party which replied in unison to acknowledge her.
Admiral Stonecutter herself checked the declaration of men and equipment they had on board and after a little while plus some scanning from one of her ships, they told the TDA
"Okay! Looks like you guys can be the first to go. Head to the space port. I'll transmit the coordinates and other info you need as you go."
Repairs would be given without delay to the wounded ships, Amastacia promising to show the Dectrose their greatness in repairing things. On the one hand, communication lines were also established as the Naval Infantry and the United Fleets began transmitting their own lines to the DE, slowly taking over command of the security forces contributed by the Dectrose.
The only issue was the fact that the Trenchent contained several captured TDA Marines...which belonged to their other guest. The admiral was not pleased and sent a rather scolding message against the one in charge of the ship carrying them, Amastacia strongly saying "You better get yourself quarantined. For this, I cannot allow your presence on the surface. You will remain in your ship for the duration of the summit on my official demand as part of regulation."
And then she cut him off from her comm line. But her mood was restored thanks to Mergheriti
Nevertheless, all the other ships were inspected rather quickly and without any delay, letting the Hanas Solace and the York pass through and then the Serpent and Conquerer.
"Of course, we will comply with any demands you make regarding our cargo." Fischer stated in return, he had made his report to Terri, and she outranks him regardless, his absence won't affect anything that happens on the surface. For now, he went to make sure the TDA Marines where in good shape. The shuttlecraft containing the STIU personnel, now in command of the UWA's Security Forces, moved to the surface, to reinforce the security measures already in place. The ATAF sent three shuttles of their infantry, various different armors and weapons present on them as they moved to provide personal security to Terri and the other officers. Harbor, Terri and Margheriti also joined the throng, moving down to the surface, leaving their XO's in charge of the ships they left behind. Soon enough, the shuttles would find their designated landing pads, and the Admirals and Captain Harbor would meet at Terri's pad before moving on.
The DGN began to take pictures of the planet, anything they could get on the TDA's presence, the Dectrose ships in orbit, and then once satisfied, proceeded down, Reiter figured that this would be interesting, considering all the variables involved. The TDA, who left the FDC meeting, are here now, the events at Threshold where already known to the Dectrothian Network, and Morgan for the moment was officially labeled 'MIA', but presumed KIA, as her clone didn't activate, same as Admiral Ryn. The Dectrose held onboard the Trenchant the captured TDA Boarders, who by all officially released accounts, where made hostile by an as-of-yet unnamed force much like the Dectrose crews at Kaikoma's destruction. Speculation pointed the blame at Skalia, but such were only rumors without any solid facts involved. For now though, she was eager to get planetside, and get to the summit.
Secretary Blue and her Carlist (very religious red beret wearing believers and followers of Javier, supporters of their own monarchist and democratic party) guards welcomed the coming Dectrose officers. Her Carlists assumed formation and greeted them with a synchronized rifle salute followed by Secretary Blue speaking to her guests "Welcome to the city. We will be expecting you at the summit grounds. We hope you enjoy your stay. For the occasion, all refreshments and food are for free. Thanks to Amastacia, we were also able to prepare food and drink suitable to your species, whatever it may be. I also invite you and your companions to enjoy yourselves before the summit officially begins."
Meanwhile, the Voice of Little Alondra and the universal network of UWA media called the UWA FPA or Free Press Agencies, met their Dectrose counterparts, welcoming them PlanetSide.
On the other hand, Amastacia left her XO to take care of the Home Fleet and their Dectrose counterparts. Her shuttle took her and brought her PlanetSide in time to meet Mergheriti again, giving him an embrace and a proper salute graced by the rifle salute of her own guards. And as a sign of personal respect and promise, Amastacia herself served Terri with her first cup of black Alondran coffee.
“Everyone ready?” Samantha asked her group as the ship landed at the space port. She was met with a solid ‘ma’am’ from everyone.
The group followed the instructions of their guides and boarded a train to the conference location in the city. On their journey many took notes of what they could see; architecture, clothing, foods, aliens and everything in between as they enjoyed the ride. It wasn’t long before they arrived to their location where they disembarked the train and awaited their hosts to greet them there.
Giving a light-hearted smile, Terri gave a salute back to Secretary Blue, and thanked her "You are too kind, your hospitality is greater then most people can strive for. Please give Amastacia my.. thanks.." She noticed the Admiral incoming, jokingly saying "Margheriti, you've got a bogey at your twelve o' clock, prepare for impact." As Amastacia and Margheriti embraced, and a salute was given. Terri graciously accepted the Alondran coffee giving her thanks for the coffee and for her research in their food, and took a testing sip, before nodding in approval, and taking another sip before she spoke to Margheriti in a sing-song tone "You want us to leave you here or do you think we can get comfortable?"
He nodded, and gave his Amastacia a quick kiss "Alright, let's get going then, Amastacia, you want to show us where we'll be staying?" His smile was like a fortress, there was nothing that could beat it down now, as he and Amastacia remained close together as they got underway.
The DGN Reporter Maria Reiter introduced her RAVD Drone, her engineer and her security guard to the members of the FPA, thanking them for the oppurtunity to record such an event, and began to go to their assigned area, seeing where to set up camp for the duration of the summit.
Amastacia did her best to lead her Dectrose guests to where they would stay for a while before anything about the summit itself could begin. Meanwhile, however, she spoke to the guests "I hope I can speak to you first about your fellow admiral and the cargo he had in his ship. I must warn you that if my leadership knows about this, they will not be very pleased. Especially the Vice President. Although she supports your nation, she cannot accept something like this being brought to an international summit."
On the other hand, FPA Reporter Danada Karika was happy to meet Maria. She smiled at her and said "Welcome to Alondra." And offered an embrace.
Again, there were many life forms. Humans, human hybrids, Alon, Senai and Syrans as well as new additions to the UWA such as the humanish Azenistas and what not.
All could simply say that all the species that were citizens or in the process of becoming citizens were only humanoid or human.
The one who would greet and address the TDA would have been General Styrodo, a comrade of the TDA during the rebellion on Satembi. He smiled and said "Hello. How was the train trip?"
Upon glancing into the kitchen to make sure everything was in order, Terri held her hand up in response to Amastacia "We have nothing to hide from your nation, be it good or bad. The TDA Marines held on Fischer's ship where the ones that had boarded Dectrose ships at the Battle of Threshold, and under the influence of the Shades that where present, damaged and destroyed many ships of Fischer and Morgan's fleets. Morgan herself is declared MIA, and presumed KIA. If anything, the exchange is a show of trust and good will towards the TDA, and to show your nation that we can and will forgive."
She continued "The Empire won't hold them for any longer than it will take for the TDA to pick them up, they're not criminals, and we will hold no charges against them, as it was not their choice to engage the Dectrose. We simply wish to be as transparent as possible, regardless of what opinion is made. Besides, our business with the TDA shouldn't be hidden in the shadows, and you should have the right to know what is happening. Speaking of which, we do wish to know if they will continue to support the various pacts we made together, or if the TDA's withdrawl from the FDC Meeting means a total withdrawl from relations."
Reiter was a little out of her element, but accepted the embrace none-the-less, she thanked Karika for the warm welcome, and asked if there where any spots to eat, then set-up for the summit.
“General Styrodo I presume? Director Rodgers Ancerious Colonial Expedition, pleasure to meet you. I’ve read the reports of Satembi you and your soldiers do damn fine work I must say.” Samantha smiled politely as she extended a hand to greet the general
The kitchen was large enough to allow five men to cook at different stoves, three men to wash dishes and two men to prepare ingredients. On the other hand, she said "I understand and I accept your words yet I must say again that it wasn't welcome. Perhaps in the future, please inform us about such things before coming to the summit so we wouldn't be so....alarmed."
Karika simply nodded and said "There are. Would you like to eat with us? You're lucky that we're headed to a big place for all you can eat buffets!"
The general smiled and shook Samantha's hand. He responded "Thank you, Director. It isn't my glory though. It belongs to your nations army and navy. You helped us. We appreciate it. Please, what can I do for you to repay you?"
She gave a slow nod "I apologise for the misunderstanding, however, the reasonings stand that those Marines are here to be publically transfered to the TDA. if they won't accept them, then we can take them in for residence and care until our diplomats can sort things out." Terri leaned on he kitchen counter with a cup, filling it "Though that is why we are here, to figure out if your nation wants to choose the Three Domains Alliance or the Dectrose Empire."
She stopped, her cup full as she sipped it "If it where up to me, there would be no choosing and we could all coexist, but sadly it's not the case. Whatever opinion is formed over those marines in space, at least let it be known that our affairs are clear to your nation."
Glancing back at her guard, he shrugged and nodded his head, indicating he could go for a bite to eat, so she joined them, asking if Dectrothian Credits where good currency in the UWA.
“Nonsense General, we merely held the backline while you took the initiative with your 41st spears. You won an excellent victory although a little reckless for my tastes.” She chuckled.
“There’s no need to repay us anything either we have no debt, helping friends costs nothing.” She stopped for a moment to light a cigarette before continuing the walk with Stryodo
“But this conference call is concerning and we have information that your nation needs to know. We’re not sure if it’s something you already know about the Dectrose but after today you probably won’t want to be associating your nation with them to put it plainly.” She blew a cloud a smoke into the air before taking another drag.
The Admiral paid her attention to them very well and when they were done, she blinked momentarily and then motioned to the rest of her guests, saying "All right. Very well. I'd like to invite you to rest for a while and to eat and drink before we officially begin our first international summit."
As for the Dectrose press, the UWA reporter nodded and said "No problem! Actually, I'll treat you!"
Stryodo listened and quietly said as soon as she finished "Reasonable. So before this summit must begin, I'd like to ask you about what you wish to present to us. Surely, if I am not mistake, you intend perhaps to discredit the Dectrose and bring us to your interest? Excuse me for my guess but I hope I mean well."
Samantha stopped dead in her tracks, taking another drag before she answered the general’s question.
“Discrediting the Dectrose isn’t something we’ve come here to do no, what we’re doing is giving you the information you need to make a tough choice for your nation nothing more nothing less. Now let’s go and get this conference started and get it out of the way.” Samantha gestured the general to lead the way.
With a slow sidestep towards Amastacia, Margheriti joined her side, eager to put diplomacy and business to rest as well. Harbor was already on the provided furniture, distracting himself for the time being. "Of course, provided we have enough coffee to drown a ship, I don't forsee any issues, thank you greatly Amastacia, for your most hospitable welcome" Terri concluded in her happy, sing-song voice. The three Dectrose then settled in, ate and rested before putting on their more formal attire.
Purple ISF uniforms with black and white details where the call for the summit, Terri in her most impressive-looking Grand Assault Fleet Admiral uniform adorned with several rows of medals, straightened out her cuff as she waited for the others. Margheriti donned his Admiralty uniform, happy to have spent some time with Amastacia before getting ready.
Holding things up however, was Harbor, only being a Captain, his role was to be present for the late-Fleet Admiral Morgan Rolland. It was still odd to him, why no one had ever used her last name, even though such was typically used with other admirals. On papers and documents it listed her as Fleet Admiral Rolland, but everyone had always referred to her as 'Fleet Admiral Morgan' in person. His thoughts where pushed away by the steady knock at the door from the STIU, shouting out "Almost ready!" before putting on his cap and briskly walking out to meet the others.
For the first time in a very, very long time, Reiter was stuffed. She was used to eating Ramaen and surviving on whatever her salary could afford her. She was excessively pleased with the food as well! She couldn't remember the last time something made her mouth water so much. She wanted to grab another plate, but her stomach ached in protest to the movement, before she surrendered and glanced to her right.
In her augmented eyes, she briefly went over the time, nodding to her co-workers "Alright gents, let's get this show on the road." She sighed, throwing her napkin on the plate like a boxer throwing in the towel.
Amastacia can only say "You're welcome." And leave it there while within her, she struggled to contain her very feelings of joy and for Him. She did her best to stay close to him as much as she could, as if she tried to absorb his love by embracing him gently and warmly. But in the end, she couldn't bear to let go. She whispered to him as he donned his best "You look wonderful. Please do your best in the summit."
Her UWA counterparts too took the chance to head out with them. They all left gracious tips to their waiters and cooks before they escorted the Dectrose press to the assigned areas as theirs.
"Very well." He said. He thought it was a response to be expected. As he marched them to the way they must go, he said "As you meet the President and the Vice President, simply shake their hands and smile. They're just like your own president and vice-president I suppose."
“Of course, it was President Shayrack Dergundy and VP Jalaja Al-Fulani correct?” she put her cigarette as she followed. The rest of the party was close behind since they had the crucial materials for the meeting.
The waiting gaze of the other Admirals hit Harbor as he walked out, for a moment he stood still, like a deer in the headlights, before shaking it off a bit. "Alright, well, here goes?" With a soft chuckle, Terri and the others set off for the summit.
DGN where quick to set up, soon enough, they connected to the comms equipment on the Western Serpent, and where broadcasting to the Dectrothian Network.
Ultrasina witnessed, from that moment on, the arrival of the TDA and the DE to the summit hosted by the UWA. As broadcasting also began on the UWA end, the hosts proud enough to show off the beginning of the summit to the galaxy, President Shayrack and VP Jalaja were waiting for their guests along with many UWA politicians, businessmen and VIPs invited to bear witness to this international event.
President Shayrack himself approached the delegates of both the DE and TDA by himself. After he faced them, he nodded to each group and then said to them "Welcome to Alondra. I hope you will find yourselves well in this summit. Will you please follow me to the platform?"
Samantha took a seat near the UWA President and Vice president the same as the Dectrose, as the rest of the Alliance delegation moved to the side of the stage. Samantha was uncomfortable sharing a table with people that were considered all but enemies of the state at this point. But she was professional and sorted throguh the neccesary documents for her presentation.
The STIU and ATAF agents where on alert, the open area presented several threats, but thus far, none had yet materialized. Still, it was good to have some paranoia, considering the weight of the event. Terri, Margheriti and Harbor all found their seating quite quickly, each setting their RAVD nodes before them, the interfaces immediately coming to life as they where waved at or touched by their owner.
Terri glanced at Samantha on the podium, and spoke to her in a volume she could easily hear "Congradulations on your election, I hope TDA will do well in your hands." before nodding and nursing her node, going over interfaces and folders on the device.
The President and the rest of his companions were now on the platform, seated between the TDA and the DE. They smiled at one another and then the Secretary was the first to speak
"Ladies and gentlemen, guests and all else, we welcome you to this summit in the capital of Alondra, the home of the UWA."
Applause. The secretary then said
"To begin this summit, we would like to invite our dear friends, the Dectrose, to speak for themselves first."
Terri lifted up from her chair, silent for a moment as her RAVD node adjusted a few things, and spoke "Thank you for having us here, though the circumstances could not be more dire." She looked towards the crowd "We find ourselves in this summit, not as friends and allies, but as competitors. Why is this? Why has the Three Domains Alliance suddenly sought to expel us from their wing? We have sought to help and assist the Three Domains Alliance from their earliest days, and to include them in our everyday lives. The same as we are trying to do with the United Worlds of Alondra. We wish to be colleagues, comrades and friends to both the TDA and UWA, but this summit has shown a darker side to these relations. Why?"
She inhaled, a downcast expression on her face "Due to an operation against a galactic threat, the Unnamed, whose ability to force stars to go supernova, and has done so repeatedly, cannot be left unchecked. We have fought such forces before at Thramas, in the territory of the Grand Araxium Empire, and have successfully beaten them back. However, this operation that was carried out included rogue agents of Triarch, who seek to help the Unnamed, the Black Sail Organization, and the Annointed. The combination of these forces, lead to the overall defeat of the allied forces, whom where not prepared, nor informed of such an evil coalition."
"We sought the assistance of the Three Domains Alliance, one of the nations we greatly trusted with our lives, to join us in an operation we had theorized was related to the Unnamed, and the Unnamed only. The Annointed tried to falsely claim the space of the Threshold, and had convinced the TDA to leave, we had attempted to explain the situation to the TDA prior to the allied Triarch attack, the resulting control of the 'Shades' forced on our own Marines, and the TDA lead to severe casualties on both sides."
She looked over to Samantha "That, my friends, is why we are here. The Dectrose called for aid, and they ended up being overwhelmed by enemy forces, the same with the TDA. We attempted to disarm a true weapon of mass destruction, and failed. Now the threat grows, and we are falling apart at the seams. Now is not a time for fool-hearty notions of choosing, now is a time to forge our shields together. The Dectrose simply want co-existence, for the UWA not to be forced to choose between their comrades and to be free to choose their own destiny. Isn't that what democracy is all about?"
"We may be a Stratocracy, and an Empire only in name, but the freedoms of our people remain unviolated. Our economy is strong, and has weathered the storms of the Black Sail Organization, and Skalia's destruction of Kaikoma, our military is steadfast, and more than eager to give their lives for our allies, we have more than enough men and ships to not only protect ourselves, but our friends in times of peace and conflict, as well as materials to help rebuild anything that is lost. The price of freedom is high, the Dectrose have paid that price, and will pay that price again for their allies."
She looked at both the Vice President and President for a moment, before sitting back down, and sipping at her coffee.
Samantha was surprised at what the Dectrose had to say the fact that they had just now revealed the truth about a situation that would of left Alliance scientists and investigators scratching their heads for a long time. It also showed her that their deceptions ran much deeper then she initially thought and she would use that against them here and now. She grabbed one of the display drives from her pocket and held it tightly as she stood up and made her way to the podium.
“Firstly I’d like to introduce myself I’m Director Samantha Rodgers and secondly I’d like to thank the people of the United Worlds of Alondra for hosting this event. Your city and planet are defiantly something else and you should be proud of what you’ve built here.” She spoke softly as she placed the display driver down on the podium and switched it on. It displayed a list large enough to be read by the entire audience, the list itself started scrolling down on it were portraits of Alliance military personnel with their names, ranks, and worlds of origin next to them.
“The Dectrose say that they trusted us with their lives, but I can’t say the same thing. What you’re seeing now is a casualty list from the Threshold incident. Over two million lives were snuffed out or existence. And it is as Admiral Terri says it is a galactic threat but it was one we were unaware of and uninformed about until it was too late. Even now information that could have been critical was kept from us.” She stepped to the side and turned her head towards the Dectrose delegation
“You come here and tell not us but a whole conference of people that our people were controlled by some ’Shades’ but not once not even during the battle were we told anything about the enemies capabilities for such paranormal abilities.” She turned to face the audience again.
“Actually to correct myself our logs show a data packet transmitted to our fleet, as they were leaving now normally such a packet would be analysed but since we were on our way out it was deemed a non-issue. And while we are clarifying somethings I’d like to say that the Alliance did not come here as a competitor. Diplomacy isn’t a game to game to be won when making fiends we’ve come here to provide your President and his constituents’ information about the Dectrose.” Her voice went from sombre to boisterous
“The fact that the Dectrose see this as a competition goes to show that they see the UWA as nothing more than a tool they can use. Will they bring such threats as the destruction of Kaikoma to your worlds? Surely you are also aware that they have helped and perhaps will continue to help the APP, led by none other than Capitol a nation that stands in polar opposite in ideals to democracy; you can find news that backs up these claims by the way.” She stopped for a moment to calm herself down she was getting quite into this speech.
“Ladies and Gentlemen, Mr President to conclude what I’m saying is that the Dectrose cannot be trusted and I beseech you to not make the same mistake we did and have it cost you so many lives of good honest citizens of your nation. Once again I’d like to thank the UWA and its people for having me here today, and I bid you all a good day and Gods bless the Three Domains Alliance and the United Worlds of Alondra.” She raised one arm up to wave to the crowd as she returned to her seat taking the display drive with her and turning it off.
The President was silent. But the rest of the UWA guests and officials present were not. One half was clearly rooting for the Dectrose, a collection of insults and questions gathering against the TDA. On the other half, people were attempting to question the Dectrose. But this all meant chaos and division. At this, the Secretary raised her hand towards her guards nearby and they nodded, quickly creating a line against the crowds and the commander shouted, silencing them
"Silence! The summit continues!"
At once, after all was well again, the President said
"While I can now express that the United Worlds of Alondra owes the Dectrose friendship and trust, especially over how Admiral Amastacia made our bond with the Dectrose true with Admiral Mergheriti, I must speak for the UWA that it is indeed true that the UWA has more debt towards the TDA, especially for their contribution to the Satembi Rebellion and in putting it down and also for conducting the same things to ensure a good relationship.
But when I heard all these from both parties, I cannot help but be disturbed."
He turned to the Dectrose, most especially to Terri and he said
"Tell me, dear Admiral, will you wish to defend the honor of your empire and the reputation of your navy and most of all, the status of your name before me and my people in the face of what this lady, Director Samantha Rodgers of the TDA, is saying? What shall be the course that you will wish to take on behalf of the empire you claim to represent and so bear their name and honor?"
Then to the TDA, the President stated
"Director Samantha, my dear lady, is there anything else you wish to say towards the other party that you think we really should hear? If it were up to me alone, I would have cared more about keeping the relations of both TDA and DE with the UWA intact. But now that you claim that your ally has lied to you and that you seem to place a great part of the fault of the losses of your naval infantry and sailors towards the DE, I must ask you seriously to consider what you have said and again, tell us more or show us more. If not, I invite you to speak your mind and be honest not only to me, but to the UWA, to the DE and to the rest of the galaxy. As here before you and even Admiral Terri, all our media is displaying this."
He then told both women
"Please speak wisely afterwards and ensure that not only will the UWA be impressed but also the galaxy."
"Madame president, we have always sought to defend our honor and reputation that most benefited our people's freedoms and their wishes. What the Three Domains Alliance states is true, we had not informed them of such during the battle, our very own Psionic defenses had failed, and where utterly no match for such brute force. Same goes with the APP, we have trade agreements with Capitol, and we have business dealings with both Triarch and Rangvald. Though our reasoning for this is quite simple."
"The APP has never demanded that we take down the Oracle, held captive our personnel, conducted stealth missions inside our territory, made useless an entire planet and never once threatened us with civilian casualties on an enormous scale. Faced with such, we have turned to support the APP economically. While we are aware of the situation with Capitol, rest assured that actions are being taken by our diplomats to remedy the curse that befalls them."
She leaned back now. "Though this does not mean we aren't negotiating with the AGA to clear the air, and find some semblance of peace. We may not support the AGA, but we are not seeking any actions against them."
She stepped away from her seat, pacing in front of the table "Though Director Samantha speaks of millions of lives lost, we too shared in those casualties, the Annointed have soul capture technology, and negate our ability to be reborn in a clone body if we perish in battle.. We have been in countless battles, and not once had we turned against our comrades after a loss. Though if it's trust that is in focus, let me remind those here that Kaikoma was lost, with 10.3 billion lives, in order to save a single Artificia, whom the Dectrose are not in good relations with, and tried to save her from the grasp of the Shades."
"In Thramas, we threw ourselves at an unknown enemy, attempting to detonate a supernova in the GAE's territory, we lost lives and ships to protect a nation we didn't know very much. The same is said for the Danovans, who are under attack by a hostile force, and again, we thrust ourselves into the gathered enemy to try and save them. The Dectrose are willing and able to defend the existence of all races in this galaxy, and should the TDA give out the call for help, even after what is said today, the Dectrose will still come running to assist."
She stopped pacing, now addressing Samantha "What Samantha has stated today, I agree. This is not a competition, and the UWA should not have to choose between us. Let us have coexistence, let us mend the rift that has widened, and let us have peace between our nations, so that we may be stronger together. The Dectrose value your nation, Director, and we've accomplished great things together, from Multi-Role Fighters to Wormhole Gates, let us put aside this squabble and embrace one another as friends."
She looked into the eyes of both the President and Director, before returning to her seat. "We can help the TDA with psionic defense technology, cloning technology and more, the same offer is open to the UWA. We can protect your systems and your people with our armor and soldiers, we promise you this."
Samantha chuckled to herself at the end of Terri’s speech. Do they really think they can get away with these deceptions and half-truths? She stood up again to take the podium this time the look on her face was one of annoyance that this summit was still continuing this far, she cleared her throat before she started speaking.
“I ask the Dectrose when is the deception going to end. When will you stop the lying and telling half-truths to these good people? You just now admitted that you are economically supporting Capitol and helping them prolong a war that has wiped systems from the galactic map and killed untold billions. The reason why the AGA is hostile to you is because you’re all but in the APP. In a recent press conference it was revealed that the Dectrose were harbouring the Z1 an APP super weapons capable of the same destructive power of the crucible.” She paused to catch her breath
“I’m afraid that we cannot co-exist and we cannot be friends, unlike your nation the will of the people not a handful of people has decided that it should be as such. They cannot find it in their hearts to ally our nation who stands as hypocrites who want to try to save and protect everyone but then condone the subjugation, enslavement and deaths of millions of people with their choice of allies and other actions. If you truly wanted to protect people you’d cut ties with the APP as to what I’ve said before you’ve decided to all but join them. You can offer as much technology and cooperation as you want in a desperate attempt to get us to join and forgive but it won’t happen ever. The Three Domains Alliance and hopefully the United Worlds of Alondra will stand together as Bastions of Democracy where our ideals will not only survive in this galaxy but thrive.” She stopped to look at President Shayrack
“My President I think we’ve heard enough and I think it’s time to come to a decision, the case has been made on both sides and it’s time to choose. Who will it be a brother in arms in democratic ideals or an autocratic deceiver who condones actions that stand as an affront to our ideals?” She left the podium and took her seat.
The uproar was tremendous, a literal wave of people standing up and protesting, all of them against the Dectrose. Even those who once supported them turned against them now. And only Admiral Amastacia chose to stand up for the Dectrose. She ran from her side to the side of her lover and stood before the crowd, looking from left to right, To her side and to the side of her lover, Amastacias close officers and soldiers rushed to protect them.
The entire crowd present at the summit was now attempting to mob the Dectrose and Amastacia but only the words of the Vice President, who was clearly upset but strong willed, said "ENOUGH! SIT DOWN, ALL OF YOU!"
And they did, gradually so.
Then spoke the President "The United Worlds of Alondra has made its decision. But I cannot express it right now until I get more evidence, more words to make both of your points stronger. Because if I make this decision right now without knowing more, I may or may not lead my own faction into war and chaos."
The President said to the Director "Allow yourself to listen, please, without your hard feelings against them, to the Dectrose."
And to the Admiral, he said "Please explain yourselves. While obviously your connections to the Capitol has....strongly offended us, please explain."
He added "We will listen if you are willing to say why and what are you trying to accomplish."
As she was about to get up, Margheriti stood instead, slamming his hands on the table before him and his eyes glowing orange, in stark contrast to his pale face "Deceptions? Half-Truths? Can you not see beyond your own small xenophobic view to see that you can't solve every problem with a gun? You say that our support will prolong the war, well I hate to break it to you but the Crucible is destroyed, Rubikon is gone, the AGA used superweapons against one of those planets and killed civilians without remorse, we've even heard rumors that the Blinker fleet was dealt a heavy blow. Has the AGA asked for an end to the war?"
"As far as the Z1, it doesn't have the same destructive power of the Crucible, if you checked your own sources. Then you believe the words of a band of pirates, that threatened to send the AGA to destroy a civilian center, unleashed a massive cyber attack on Uproth to make it useless, because they tracked some ghost trails in space? And you know who we found on those pirate ships? An Annointed Shield Guardian named Ash, who was sent with them by, guess who, Skalia. The same one that destroyed Kaikoma. But you seek to back the AGA? If you want to uncover the truth, I'd start with your misguided beliefs you put int he AGA."
He slowed down, walking towards Samantha "But you want to know why we're supporting Capitol? Sure, because you cannot convince a nation to stop using slaves one day and not expect resistance. The economy would collapse, the nation would fall apart, and that goes against our beliefs. Our plan was to help Capitol economically, send diplomats over and ask them over a period of time to rotate the slaves into a free life, while we, the Dectrose, help them cope and even replace those slaves with our own workforce if needed. But if someone, like the AGA, demand that they remove the slavery with force, guess who dies first in battle?" He let the question hang there, then continued.
"You risk the lives of those slaves, and our operation with your slandering, your curt attitude, your dishonor. Then, you have the gall to call yourselves a democracy, but demand that this nation, the nation of my lover, to choose to either be free to choose their destiny or enslaved to your sick imperialistic version of democracy? Then if you accomplish such, and we're forced out, will you protect them the way we would? Will you stand up to the coming storms of vile enemies of the Unnamed, Shades and more?" The Admiral was now directly in front of Samantha "Because as we've seen it, the TDA lost over 20 thousand soldiers to the Davians, and you didn't even appear at the battle for Voi Con to avenge them."
He pushed himself away "While you struggle with rebellions within your own nation, the Dectrose are out there, shedding blood and losing ships against galactic threats. I think that shows that Dectrose strength and vision is much wider than the TDA can handle. We have more men, more ships, and a larger superweapon than the TDA, not to mention the best technology one can offer. So if it's a question of choice, the Dectrose are the bigger, stronger nation to ally with. Besides, do you see any TDA security out there? The TDA Navy protecting the system? I think not."
He sought Amastacia's side, holding her hand in his as he addressed the president "President, The Dectrose wish that you wouldn't have to choose, to destroy all the relationships made in our friendship. But the Three Domains Alliance offer you no choice, it's either us or them, but as it stands, we have more allies, more ships, more men, more economics, more freedom, more understanding, and more compassion than what they can conceivably offer you with only their nation alone."
"You know of the Auraxii's plight, and know that the Dectrose are heading there to restore those people to freedom, to work with the Inquisition to give the Auraxii people freedom, aid and a life worth living, We've heard of the UWA's presence, but do you hear of the TDA heading out there to help aid these people? Our scope is galactic, and with us, the UWA can help rid the scourge of slavery in this galaxy once and for all. With the TDA, you'll be a democratic puppet on a string, only moving to their whim and fancy."
Samantha sat silently and waited for the outburst to be over. When it was she turned to Terri with a scowl that would kill lesser beings.
“I’d much appreciate it if you could keep your subordinates in check Admiral, outburst like this get us nowhere.” She stood up to take to the podium to address the crowd
“Well folks you saw it here first, The Dectrose are going to replace slaves for Capitol, either they means they are secretly in the slave trade business and they are going to fuel the war machine of Democracy’s greatest rival. Is this really the type of ally the UWA need, someone who condones and supports the slave trade? Do they really need an ally that needs to flex their military might here and now? An ally that lets its officials have outbursts and threaten a nation they don’t see eye to eye with. Let me respond to some of the allegations that we have been accused of.” She cleared her throat and went over in her head what the Decrothian said.
“Firstly the UWA doesn’t need protection they are capable soldiers and sailors in their own right and I believe that no matter the threat they can and will stand triumphant. They don’t need the Dectrose babysitting them in some sort of nanny state being told who they can and can’t talk, where they can and can’t go, or being forced to send soldiers and sailors to their deaths in battle by your whims. I’d say your security is more concerning then comforting you could have us taken hostages at any time and force the hand of the UWA President. Once again I state that we have only come here to warn the UWA of your deceptions and offer to pick up the slack where you might have been helping them.”
“Secondly I’d like to say feel free to police the galaxy as much as you want, it doesn’t need it so why should we send our sons and daughters to die for nothing. You can gloat about how big you’re military is but I’m guessing the Dectrose have never heard of the saying ‘the pen is mightier than the sword’. Violence begets violence you are fuelling a cycle of turmoil with your constant policing even if you can’t see it yet. It’s much better to solve things diplomatically then throw troops and ships at a problem until it goes away.”
“Lastly I’d like to say that we are not an imperialist democratic power as you put it. We despise imperialism to the very core and our nation was founded on the beliefs that it should end. If the UWA does accept our friendship then they will be free to about their business as usual plus a few extra perks. We’ve seen the Allies of the Dectrose and let me tell you good people of the UWA, It’s more of the same autocratic states where the people don’t get a say in the ruling body. Even the Dectrose themselves are like this how can you even stand side by side with someone who stands as an affront to your nations ideology.” She stopped and turned to the UWA President
“Mr President I think we’ve heard enough from these people what is your decision going to be your true allies or these pretenders who will do nothing but lie to you. The evidence is all in the news for everyone to see if you still doubt me.” She sat back down in her seat and awaited the Presidents reaction
The President then said "Enough. It is time." And all went quiet, the president and his companions, the vice president and the secretary standing up. They faced the people and the President said "I have decided that, with my only vote, the United Worlds of Alondra shall go for the TDA." He turned to his vice president. The woman was so angry with him and with the director. The VP reportedly gave the director a dirty stare accompanied by a terrible frown. She then sighed and worriedly glanced at the Dectrose before telling the president, who had a sorry look for her, "I vote the same as well." The secretary simply nodded her vote. And the people?
Many of them gave their President a gesture all UWA citizens make when they want to say yes silently: A fist. Only a silent minority in the corner of the summit chose to make no such gesture.
And soon enough, the President declared "Today is the day the rest of my faction votes. The Dectrose or the Alliance?"
And as quickly as he spoke, the screens of televisions present in the summit and whatever displays or screens there were switched to what looked like a voting diagram that was being updated per vote.
And overwhelmingly, the votes were going for the TDA.
But even as the votes went for the TDA, many voted for the Dectrose. But soon enough, after several minutes, the entire UWA has voted.
The TDA was the pick of most of his citizens. The President sighed and he presented the results and he told the TDA
"We are with you."
To which, the horrified Admiral Amastacia declared "Mr. President!"
The President could only shake his head and say "It cannot be changed. That is the vote."
The Admiral then bit her lower lip and embraced her lover right there and now, her soldiers quickly resuming their protective formation around her and the Dectrose.
The Secretary then gave them the bad news "The only way you may publicly continue your relationship with your significant other is to either leave your rank behind and become a citizen of the Dectrose or you simply deal with it and just contact him via other means of communication that are still legal."
The Admiral, the woman, responded "Then I defect. And so shall those who wish to be loyal to me and the one I love."
It was the other woman's turn to chuckle, even given the light of the events "You misunderstand us much, Director Samantha, Fleet Admiral Margheriti here is part of the Admiralty board, he represents the interests of the Dectrose, and he's free to speak when he so chooses." She waved her hand as a form of saying 'cool off' "And spare us the dramatics, you should know full well that the Dectrose don't deal in slaves, the Annointed would have us gutted before we could blink, and speaking of, do tell your ally about the Hospitallars, I'm sure the conversation will be amusing. Once AGA can allow some room to maneuver, we have a plan in place, as Margheriti stated, to remove such negative influences from Capitol. Who knows, perhaps we can negotiate an end to this awful war, but inflaming comments like what you've stated only hinder that."
She stood up, Harbor joining her in such "Though, if you wish to lecture me over babysitting and ordering a nation around, please do yourself a favor and take a look in the mirror. The Dectrose will keep their offer open to the UWA, but you disappoint me, Samantha. Perhaps the campaign for your election requires a look into your history, like how the TDA turned their back on former allies, the Andracken and Davians, now the Dectrose. When will the trend of betrayal end Samantha?"
The Dectrose Admiralty gathered their nodes, thanked the president and UWA for allowing them to be here at this event and left the stage, it was clear that their presence was no longer needed. They thanked those along their way to their shuttles, Margheriti poking Terri "Uhm, Fleet Admiral Ma'am?" He was arm-in-arm with Amastacia, up until Terri suddenly stopped "Yes, You both are now going to be of equal rank, congratulations to both of you, and most of all, thank you for believing in us, ISF Fleet Admiral Amastacia." She paused, and chuckled "Well, Margheriti, don't be rude, stay here and help your lovely girlfriend pack her things, we'll be awaiting you at Decoroso." So Margheriti stayed, going along with wherever Amastacia took him to help her get packed for the departure.
Fischer was not as pleased, and opened up comms privately with Terri "So, TDA's playing the big game now, they grow up so fast. What are we going to do with the cargo?" Terri spoke back within her processor, inaudible to anyone around "Offer them up, if they don't want them, then we'll place them at Alqursan for evaluation. I trust repairs where sufficient?" There was a pause then he answered "Yes, you'd be surprised on how well these folks get to work. Though I doubt we're going straight to Decoroso." She nodded silently "Well, we have several ties to cut and gates to shut down, shore up defenses around such as well. I trust Landow is available?" He grumbled lowly "Of course, I'll direct him there."
Soon, Comms opened up from Fischer's ship to the TDA vessel "ISF Assault Fleet Admiral Fischer here, I got a bunch of TDA Marines, and I need to offload them, want them on your ship or should I get clearance to drop them on the planet? Otherwise, we can keep them cozy at Alqursan until you pick them up." Truthfully, Fischer too was disappointed, but there where always opportunities elsewhere. If the Dectrose where good at anything, they took what chances they where given.
Soon, the shuttles carrying the ATAF, Terri, Harbor and the STIU left the planet, bound for their ships, though the DGN stayed a little while longer.
Samantha smiled and walked over to her delegation and gave them congratulations for a job well done. The way was paved with further relations with the UWA and perhaps they could make another addition to the Alliance. In the meantime the Stranded Alliance Marines were offload planetside near the landed diplomatic ship. The Marines organised themselves into their units or rather what was left. Samantha saw personally to the retrieval effort with dozens of shuttles arriving in a mere moment’s notice to take them back to Anderson System HQ, where they would under several evaluations and be interrogated about what happened at Threshold. For now the UWA front would be left alone for a few days to cool off and see to any affairs that needed to be changed with the excommunication of the Dectrose.
Admiral Amastacia barely held her tears in as she left the summit, only saluting her former president and vice president with a frown and eyes that were close to breaking into bitter emotions. She turned with her men, leaving rapidly with her lover. Only after she felt that she was out of the eyes of the media and of the people did she give in to weeping, clinging to her lover as she confessed her love and also apologized for having to defect to his nation because of what happened.
However, to comfort her, some of her fellow admirals and generals who were close by simply stood as one and saluted her. Even those of greater rank than her did so and she accepted their gesture and saluted them back, even as she continued to feel her tears come out of her eyes.
Then she went to her own shuttle to bring her, her men and her lover to her residence and to her headquarters in order to begin preparing to leave the United Worlds of Alondra.
Only she would be the first and only admiral to be allowed by her government to defect to another because she loved an admiral like her.
For now, the Vice President gave the President her entire wrath and disappointment. She lashed out at him, she scolded him, she insulted him. Then she gave in to begging him to reconsider, to ask for another vote, to have another summit, to make a deal in secret with the Dectrose. But nothing was done. The Vice President separated herself from the President and Secretary, leaving for her own home. The Secretary stayed with her President and escorted him to his own residence, for the President was not shaken but exhausted by the summit.
Everyone else too left. And now the UWA was in the hands of not only their own government but the TDA.