Post by EmperorMyric on Mar 22, 2021 17:07:28 GMT
As per orders from Decoroso, Rear Admiral Joram Lance turned his ship 'Rot' around to plan out a route towards the Inquisition. The mission itself was simple enough, and straightforward. As he and his small escort fleet sent the Inquisition notice of their arrival, they rolled into the wormhole. He chewed lightly on his lip, the idle action helping him to think as his ears flickered left and right, This mission wasn't just for the Dectrose, but now he was acting representative for the FDC, and that made him tingle with the slightest nit of nervousness.
Within a short period of time, the ships arrived gently into Inquisition space, just waiting for the Inquisition's reply now as he continued his light chewing.
The Hushniol system was getting a complete overhaul as of recent times. The innermost planets being visibly cracked open and mined by the continent, while the outermost planets were being outfitted with long range defenses and sensor arrays to help defend the multitude of cargo ships moving in and out of the system. Midway in awaited Inquisitor Kelrin at the newly constructed orbital embassy, meant to be a place for hosting FDC meetings and other negotiations should the need arise.
She watched the scanners indicate the arrival of the Dectrothian emissary. Kelrin turned away from the observation deck and made way towards the meeting hall. As she walked, she sent out greetings to Admiral Lance:
-//- Salutations, Rear Admiral Joram Lance. If you please, meet me in the meeting room of this station. I believe we have much to discuss. -//-
"Greetings to you as well Inquisitor Kelrin, I will be there shortly with a fireteam of Marines as personal escort, as per Dectrothian Law. I'm looking forward to our discussion." He ended with a happier tone, though some news was to be grim. He pushed it aside as the ships glided through towards the orbital embassy, taking up residence a little ways away as the shuttle left the bay and descended on the embassy, soon docking and allowing Lance and his fireteam to step out, internal climate control helped to alleviate any humidity concerns, or heat, as he stepped forth.
He rolled the RAVD node in his hand, he figured that things would be smooth, and the Inquisition was one of the few nations from their entry that they held close relations with, the other being the Summer Court. That allowed Lance a little relief, and a little bit of stress off of his well-dressed shoulders. From there, he would then move onward to the meeting room, following any guidelines by their hosts to make sure everything was as it should be.
Kelrin entered the meeting room at the same time and pace as her guests, having silently watched their approach from a distance. The room itself was a modular design: multiple sections could be added or removed to accommodate for different sized groups, and various seating arrangements to accommodate a few dozen different postures dotted the various chairs. Today's meeting called only for the central presentation platform and a few chairs however. The Annoliddans aboard the station, if any were encountered at all, paid no mind to the armed escort as they passed.
Kelrin's pupils rapidly dilated and contracted faster than an organic eye would be able to as she scanned Joram's entrance, betraying her otherwise fully natural appearance. She motioned for the Rear Admiral and his escort to seat themselves in the semicircle of seats in the center as she did as well.
"Welcome, Dectrose Representative Rear Admiral Joram Lance. Please forgive the lack of amenities in this facility; our focus has tastelessly been function over form as of late. There is much we have to discuss, but first, is there a specific you wish to discuss first?"
He gave a salute and a bow on being motioned to be seated, then took his seat, giving a quick motion of his hand as the Dectrose guards unlocked and took off their faceplates, setting them on the table with their weapons stowed to their backs. Lance then set down the RAVD node, the small ball glowing bright orange with Lance's eyes before settling to a dim glow. "The pleasure is all mine, Inquisitor Kelrin. Do not apologize, the amenities are perfectly fine for the Dectrose, we prefer utility to form in our culture."
He paused, tapping his finger on the table as a holographic computer display appeared from the node in front of him, which he moved off to the side a little, to make sure he can still maintain eye contact with the Inquisitor. "Yes, firstly, on orders of Bohler, we would like to extend an invitation for an adviser or observer to be stationed on the Oracle. This person would oversee it's use and advise on specific scrying missions it undertakes. As it currently stands, we use it frequently to search for suitable planets to mine or for colonization. It also provides us with the most up-to-date maps of our own systems, ensuring a clear homefield advantage. The only time we will ever use it offensively is in times of war, but even then we would not fully rely on such."
Kelrin crossed her fingers at the offer, taking a more relaxed posture as she briefly contemplated the offer. "Having access to the Oracle, even if to simply observe its function, would be a great boon to my people. We accept the offer to place an observer on the Oracle, however I will have to convene with the High Council before I can say for certain if this individual can and/or will act in advisory capacity. I have no doubt however that such an act could prove beneficial to us both."
"However," She continued, "It would be best to keep our presence observing the Oracle a secret until such a decision can be made, though it is understandable if you must tell others of our involvement ahead of time."
Lance nodded his head "Of course, your presence can be kept as discreet as you wish it to be. The only forces that need to be informed would be Grand Defense Fleet Admiral Arandas and Decoroso Command. Though with this, we move towards the next item for discussion. An important piece of information no less. It is clear to us upon receiving reports from the western reaches of the galaxy, that the UWA has declared war upon firing at out ships there. We where attempting a covert extraction of a defecting Fleet Admiral, and it turned sour."
He slid the documents in question over to the other using the node, the holographic display showing the information. "We had attempted to use the UWA's complicated predicament against them, to show a strong force to try and retrieve the admiral without conflict. As far as our information is aware, we thought with the myriad of changes and unfavorable positions, that the admiral would be relinquished. But an intervention by someone known as the Black Rabbit Corporation had caused aggression and the UWA initiated fire against us. The TDA, or now the UDS, then opened fire next."
"We expect a total loss of all 12 ships there, including the Pride of Decoroso which was the ISF's Annointed Battleship. As far as who exactly is declaring war, we know for a fact the UWA and UDS will likely follow-through with declarations, but the Black Rabbit or Commonwealth forces we predict won't wish to join in on the war. At least, from our projections." He sent over the projections and probabilities as well. "We wish to call on your aid from Article 2 of the FDC Treaty. We likely won't need military aid or intervention, but anything that can be sent, is a large help to relieve our forces for optimal defense."
Kelrin's fingers danced over the hologram, her own forming an exact match to hold. "And so another conflict enters our fold..." She mused over the projections for a moment before modifying the variables with her own. She smiled as her attention turned back to Lance. "We will happily assist. We can supply both raw materials to fuel the war effort as well as provide drydock and repair to your fleets. Personally, I cannot supply any ships or personnel under my command, though security details and diplomatic vessels are not fitted for the frontlines anyway. I will transfer this information to the High Council along with the Oracle proposal; more than likely the other Inquisitors will wish to join in."
Kelrin gave out a soft chuckle. "I know Raanges has been... antsy after the Crucible's destruction, and would be more than willing to contribute her fleet. Regardless of their individual choices, our code dictates we at least act in defensive capacity. Should the conflict reach any Dectrose controlled system, all available forces will be sent your way."
Visibly relaxing, Lance brought his hand up to rub on his chin for a moment. "That's good to hear, the Dectrose plan on taking a defensive approach to this war, by our calculations, we should have a sufficient force size to wear them down. Though we will keep in touch as the plan for this war solidifies, but please accept my deepest gratitude." He bowed again, and moved onto other news "With that out of the way, the Dectrose are looking into researching new technology, we would happily assist your own research efforts in any fields we have available, if you where to help us with our own."
He slid a list of technologies the DRI where looking into, one in particular interest was the Gravitic Wave Generators, with the DRI greatly interested in Gravitic Technology.
Much like with the previous documents, Kelrin copied the list and scanned through the myriad of options. Many were research goals the Inquisition also wished to pursue. The two regarding gravitic manipulation however...
"I believe we can help greatly in these areas," announced Kelrin. "Our understanding of gravity manipulation has been fundamental ever since we first started faster-than-light travel." She turned her left palm upward, producing a bright glow and another hologram alongside the others. In addition to a number of statistics and readings much like the others, this one also included a few diagrams of molecular structures and electro-chemical processes, as well as an image of a glowing orange stone.
"This is Valerium, an exotic matter the Annoliddans recovered from meteor impacts while our civilization was still in its infancy. We did not realize its full potential at the time, but now it is an integral part of the Inquisition's space travel and gravity manipulation. We can both trade for a steady supply of the element to the Dectrose, as well as show how to construct Valerium cores and cells which can manipulate gravity in different ways and extents pending certain conditions."
However, I mention 'trade' for this information and supply," Kelrin continued, "because such knowledge and material can also become extremely dangerous if given freely. This requires a payment in materials and information for something else in turn. It has come to our attention that the Dectrose have been developing psionic-based technology and augmentations. Would you be willing to trade such advancements in exchange for our own?"
Giving a swift nod, Lance responded "I agree, such materials and information would be kept between us, and if any of the other FDC nations wished to ask for such, we would most certainly direct them to you. As far as our Psionics, we would easily be able to send Bi'jorn and Quinterran teachers to help your people gain more insight into the use and mastery of psionics. Perhaps one day we can both extend our mastery to greater heights. The augmentations for any applicable needs will also be sent to you for custom fitting and inspection, to ensure you're satisfied with the product."
He leaned back a little, as if stretching his arms, and returned to the table "Well, now that all the serious issues are out of the way, is there anything the Dectrose Empire can do to make the Inquisition more comfortable? For example, if you need alterations to the FDC Treaty, or if you have a short supply of Valerium, we can send DRI to your nation in order to see if we can produce a synthetic version of it for more mass use, or if you are having issues with vermin or a hostile alien species, we would easily be able to assist you in these issues."
Kelrin's smile beamed brighter at the approval of the trade. "Thank you for sharing your resources and people with us! I truly believe both our nations have much to learn and to gain in these fields. As for our supply of Valerium, at this time we can easily increase our production of its pseudo-natural source to supply more. As for this source itself, it is a close-kept secret, even among our own people, for the simple reason that the last time the source was given it nearly led to the destruction of a galactic arm due to sheer mass production. Forgive me, but it is not a matter of trust, but rather the risk of a leak occurring is not one we can afford at the moment, especially in the current state of this galaxy."
She then pulled up a copy of the FDC Treaty with two areas highlighted in the first and fifth articles. Kelrin's posture shifted, leaning forward in a more concerned look. "Moving on, there are two notes on the FDC Treaty that my fellow Inquisitors wanted to pass on. First and foremost is the presence of Black Sails Organization Freeports within Annoliddan space. These were originally constructed and placed when we first entered the galaxy, when having another faction gathering technology and scouting worlds for us seemed a logical move. However, especially with our continued involvement in galactic politics, they are becoming more trouble than they are worth to keep, especially now since holding them is in direct violation of Article 1, Section E. I was hoping to host another FDC meet to decide their fate, be it exile once more or simply place more control on their actions. But first I wanted to get a Dectrothian opinion before moving forward."
"I see, and understand the danger of such a material, we will simply rely on you for such materials to prevent any future disasters." Tapping his fingertips together, creating a small metallic tapping sound, Lance thought it over, thinking through all the angles, consequences, possible outcomes, before opening his mouth "Well, at the FDC meet, we wanted the Black Sail Organization to be dealt with in a manner that least affected both parties, to prevent any retaliation against yourself. Enemies of the Dectrose as they are, we still realize that they are integrated in your nation, and it's a delicate affair. However."
"With the UWA and UDS declaring war, we would like the process hastened a little, since they are an organization that could ally with the enemies declaring war and give them vital information for a price. I would say, in this state of war, to exercise some observation on their activities, and remove some of them from your nation, the next FDC meet will address them fully and decide their fate. Personally, it wouldn't take much effort to simply help them move out, rather than forcefully do so. I would talk to the Black Sail Organization, and see what can be done to remove their presence in a way that least hurts both parties." He nodded after finishing, leaning back and placing his interlocked hands neatly on his chest.
"Very well. Thank you for the input." Kelrin swiped further down the Treaty. "Moving on, this next part is quite interesting from a military standpoint: many of my fellow Inquisitors have expressed interest in Article 5 particularly for the use of joint tactical training and combat execution. They wish to make use of the facilities on Taufe for this purpose, yet are also willing to supply more resources to expand and improve both the facility and the training regimen."
"That would be both more than welcome and greatly appreciated, right now we can supply Carnaithian I/A-50's that have been imported and modified for Dectrothian use for a universal rifle, though it is encouraged to bring your own indigenous firearms and vehicles for the training, to familiarize the troops with the ins and outs of the equipment their allies use. We also have a Drive Yard we have built at a planet called Stjerne. It's perfect for engineers and other elements of space fleets to mingle and learn more about each other's ships and crews. We where looking to add this drive yard to the FDC Treaty as soon as possible."
"Would you also be interested in that?"
"Yes, indeed! Ysoln will be quite pleased with such a facility. Also..." Kelrin again produced another hologram, this one taking the form of a large cylinder with various cross-sections showing the internal workings.
"It may take quite some time to convert it to other lifeforms' biology, but I do believe our simulation pods will further assist in training on both a tactical and strategic level, allowing FDC commanders to enact full-on wargames using their live troops in the simulations, minus the risk of actually harming one another."
Lance chuckled "Well, it should actually be much easier to incorporate the simulation with our nation, we can store libraries of books in our internal database, play videos, games, and more just in our head. Still, such an advancement in our simulation technology will be a boon for the FDC." He was elated now, quite proud of the cooperation going on and the eagerness for advancement rivaled by his own nation.
Kelrin was quite pleased with the Rear Admiral's reaction. "Thank you Lance. Moving forward, is there anythinf else the Dectro-" her words were cut off by a two-toned beep in her ear. She seemed to rub her temple for a moment before continuing. "Forgive the interruption, but it seems our negotiations with the Vestahl commonwealth were unfruitful. In order to maintain our non-aggression pact with them, and to maintain relations within the AGA for the time being, we cannot provide direct military aid to the Dectrose in this conflict. However..." the hologram shifted again as supply lines between the two nations came into view. "This also means we can focus on supplying more materials and support to the Dectrose as a whole, what with not having to worry about our own fleets for now."
The hologram dissipated as Kelrin continued. "As I was saying, other than what has been presented thus far, is there anything else the Annoliddan Inquisition can do for the Dectrose Empire at this time?"
His expression shifted from elation to worry, the mention of the AGA troubled him the most. "That is quite worrisome news, the Commonwealth from our own reports had minimal interaction in the whole debate between the Dectrose and UWA, as well, the Shadows that have appeared in that sector are likely more cause for worry than the Dectrose would be to them.. And, is AGA looking to get involved in this conflict as a whole or just a few parties? It just doesn't make much sense to waste lives over a disagreement between three parties." Lance sighed and tapped his fingertips together.
"Do what you can, we understand that politics and diplomacy are some thin sheets of ice to walk over. The Dectrose have held put before, and none in this galaxy have seen us in action, it may delay some plans, but we will remain in contact with you. Though.. you did mention what we could do.. would you wish for more open doors? As in allowing each other's people to migrate to one another's planets? Should the Dectrose become worried, it would be beneficial to have a place they can go until this war blows over."
"I am uncertain as to what extent the AGA and its members wish to get involved. This may be go a number of ways, but until the fighting officially starts we cannot risk declaring war against our other allies." She sighed deeply. "As for migration, I would be delighted to see both our civilian and private sectors mingling more. Your people's use of cybernetics, especially neurological implants, will prove quite useful in that regard."
"Quite so, though we'd need to develop some interface in our cerebral augments to translate your telepathy into General, it shouldn't be too difficult." He gave a light smile "Just keep us in mind if things go sour with the AGA, the Dectrose have had your six since day one, and we see no reason to stop now. We may have leaned in different directions, but you're still a valued ally and friend to the Dectrose Empire." He nodded and stood up, slowly picking up his node, as if reluctant to leave.
"For now, I must submit my report. Fear may be contagious, but so is hope, and you have definitely given us hope. Until next time?"
She stood and bowed to the fellow representative. "Until next time, Rear Admiral Lance. May your journey home be swift, and may your people stay safe."
Lance saluted and returned the bow, before departing, soon he hoped.. Soon he could put this mess of a war behind him and maybe take a vacation, after all, aquatic races sure had humid air, it reminded him of home.
Within a short period of time, the ships arrived gently into Inquisition space, just waiting for the Inquisition's reply now as he continued his light chewing.
The Hushniol system was getting a complete overhaul as of recent times. The innermost planets being visibly cracked open and mined by the continent, while the outermost planets were being outfitted with long range defenses and sensor arrays to help defend the multitude of cargo ships moving in and out of the system. Midway in awaited Inquisitor Kelrin at the newly constructed orbital embassy, meant to be a place for hosting FDC meetings and other negotiations should the need arise.
She watched the scanners indicate the arrival of the Dectrothian emissary. Kelrin turned away from the observation deck and made way towards the meeting hall. As she walked, she sent out greetings to Admiral Lance:
-//- Salutations, Rear Admiral Joram Lance. If you please, meet me in the meeting room of this station. I believe we have much to discuss. -//-
"Greetings to you as well Inquisitor Kelrin, I will be there shortly with a fireteam of Marines as personal escort, as per Dectrothian Law. I'm looking forward to our discussion." He ended with a happier tone, though some news was to be grim. He pushed it aside as the ships glided through towards the orbital embassy, taking up residence a little ways away as the shuttle left the bay and descended on the embassy, soon docking and allowing Lance and his fireteam to step out, internal climate control helped to alleviate any humidity concerns, or heat, as he stepped forth.
He rolled the RAVD node in his hand, he figured that things would be smooth, and the Inquisition was one of the few nations from their entry that they held close relations with, the other being the Summer Court. That allowed Lance a little relief, and a little bit of stress off of his well-dressed shoulders. From there, he would then move onward to the meeting room, following any guidelines by their hosts to make sure everything was as it should be.
Kelrin entered the meeting room at the same time and pace as her guests, having silently watched their approach from a distance. The room itself was a modular design: multiple sections could be added or removed to accommodate for different sized groups, and various seating arrangements to accommodate a few dozen different postures dotted the various chairs. Today's meeting called only for the central presentation platform and a few chairs however. The Annoliddans aboard the station, if any were encountered at all, paid no mind to the armed escort as they passed.
Kelrin's pupils rapidly dilated and contracted faster than an organic eye would be able to as she scanned Joram's entrance, betraying her otherwise fully natural appearance. She motioned for the Rear Admiral and his escort to seat themselves in the semicircle of seats in the center as she did as well.
"Welcome, Dectrose Representative Rear Admiral Joram Lance. Please forgive the lack of amenities in this facility; our focus has tastelessly been function over form as of late. There is much we have to discuss, but first, is there a specific you wish to discuss first?"
He gave a salute and a bow on being motioned to be seated, then took his seat, giving a quick motion of his hand as the Dectrose guards unlocked and took off their faceplates, setting them on the table with their weapons stowed to their backs. Lance then set down the RAVD node, the small ball glowing bright orange with Lance's eyes before settling to a dim glow. "The pleasure is all mine, Inquisitor Kelrin. Do not apologize, the amenities are perfectly fine for the Dectrose, we prefer utility to form in our culture."
He paused, tapping his finger on the table as a holographic computer display appeared from the node in front of him, which he moved off to the side a little, to make sure he can still maintain eye contact with the Inquisitor. "Yes, firstly, on orders of Bohler, we would like to extend an invitation for an adviser or observer to be stationed on the Oracle. This person would oversee it's use and advise on specific scrying missions it undertakes. As it currently stands, we use it frequently to search for suitable planets to mine or for colonization. It also provides us with the most up-to-date maps of our own systems, ensuring a clear homefield advantage. The only time we will ever use it offensively is in times of war, but even then we would not fully rely on such."
Kelrin crossed her fingers at the offer, taking a more relaxed posture as she briefly contemplated the offer. "Having access to the Oracle, even if to simply observe its function, would be a great boon to my people. We accept the offer to place an observer on the Oracle, however I will have to convene with the High Council before I can say for certain if this individual can and/or will act in advisory capacity. I have no doubt however that such an act could prove beneficial to us both."
"However," She continued, "It would be best to keep our presence observing the Oracle a secret until such a decision can be made, though it is understandable if you must tell others of our involvement ahead of time."
Lance nodded his head "Of course, your presence can be kept as discreet as you wish it to be. The only forces that need to be informed would be Grand Defense Fleet Admiral Arandas and Decoroso Command. Though with this, we move towards the next item for discussion. An important piece of information no less. It is clear to us upon receiving reports from the western reaches of the galaxy, that the UWA has declared war upon firing at out ships there. We where attempting a covert extraction of a defecting Fleet Admiral, and it turned sour."
He slid the documents in question over to the other using the node, the holographic display showing the information. "We had attempted to use the UWA's complicated predicament against them, to show a strong force to try and retrieve the admiral without conflict. As far as our information is aware, we thought with the myriad of changes and unfavorable positions, that the admiral would be relinquished. But an intervention by someone known as the Black Rabbit Corporation had caused aggression and the UWA initiated fire against us. The TDA, or now the UDS, then opened fire next."
"We expect a total loss of all 12 ships there, including the Pride of Decoroso which was the ISF's Annointed Battleship. As far as who exactly is declaring war, we know for a fact the UWA and UDS will likely follow-through with declarations, but the Black Rabbit or Commonwealth forces we predict won't wish to join in on the war. At least, from our projections." He sent over the projections and probabilities as well. "We wish to call on your aid from Article 2 of the FDC Treaty. We likely won't need military aid or intervention, but anything that can be sent, is a large help to relieve our forces for optimal defense."
Kelrin's fingers danced over the hologram, her own forming an exact match to hold. "And so another conflict enters our fold..." She mused over the projections for a moment before modifying the variables with her own. She smiled as her attention turned back to Lance. "We will happily assist. We can supply both raw materials to fuel the war effort as well as provide drydock and repair to your fleets. Personally, I cannot supply any ships or personnel under my command, though security details and diplomatic vessels are not fitted for the frontlines anyway. I will transfer this information to the High Council along with the Oracle proposal; more than likely the other Inquisitors will wish to join in."
Kelrin gave out a soft chuckle. "I know Raanges has been... antsy after the Crucible's destruction, and would be more than willing to contribute her fleet. Regardless of their individual choices, our code dictates we at least act in defensive capacity. Should the conflict reach any Dectrose controlled system, all available forces will be sent your way."
Visibly relaxing, Lance brought his hand up to rub on his chin for a moment. "That's good to hear, the Dectrose plan on taking a defensive approach to this war, by our calculations, we should have a sufficient force size to wear them down. Though we will keep in touch as the plan for this war solidifies, but please accept my deepest gratitude." He bowed again, and moved onto other news "With that out of the way, the Dectrose are looking into researching new technology, we would happily assist your own research efforts in any fields we have available, if you where to help us with our own."
He slid a list of technologies the DRI where looking into, one in particular interest was the Gravitic Wave Generators, with the DRI greatly interested in Gravitic Technology.
Much like with the previous documents, Kelrin copied the list and scanned through the myriad of options. Many were research goals the Inquisition also wished to pursue. The two regarding gravitic manipulation however...
"I believe we can help greatly in these areas," announced Kelrin. "Our understanding of gravity manipulation has been fundamental ever since we first started faster-than-light travel." She turned her left palm upward, producing a bright glow and another hologram alongside the others. In addition to a number of statistics and readings much like the others, this one also included a few diagrams of molecular structures and electro-chemical processes, as well as an image of a glowing orange stone.
"This is Valerium, an exotic matter the Annoliddans recovered from meteor impacts while our civilization was still in its infancy. We did not realize its full potential at the time, but now it is an integral part of the Inquisition's space travel and gravity manipulation. We can both trade for a steady supply of the element to the Dectrose, as well as show how to construct Valerium cores and cells which can manipulate gravity in different ways and extents pending certain conditions."
However, I mention 'trade' for this information and supply," Kelrin continued, "because such knowledge and material can also become extremely dangerous if given freely. This requires a payment in materials and information for something else in turn. It has come to our attention that the Dectrose have been developing psionic-based technology and augmentations. Would you be willing to trade such advancements in exchange for our own?"
Giving a swift nod, Lance responded "I agree, such materials and information would be kept between us, and if any of the other FDC nations wished to ask for such, we would most certainly direct them to you. As far as our Psionics, we would easily be able to send Bi'jorn and Quinterran teachers to help your people gain more insight into the use and mastery of psionics. Perhaps one day we can both extend our mastery to greater heights. The augmentations for any applicable needs will also be sent to you for custom fitting and inspection, to ensure you're satisfied with the product."
He leaned back a little, as if stretching his arms, and returned to the table "Well, now that all the serious issues are out of the way, is there anything the Dectrose Empire can do to make the Inquisition more comfortable? For example, if you need alterations to the FDC Treaty, or if you have a short supply of Valerium, we can send DRI to your nation in order to see if we can produce a synthetic version of it for more mass use, or if you are having issues with vermin or a hostile alien species, we would easily be able to assist you in these issues."
Kelrin's smile beamed brighter at the approval of the trade. "Thank you for sharing your resources and people with us! I truly believe both our nations have much to learn and to gain in these fields. As for our supply of Valerium, at this time we can easily increase our production of its pseudo-natural source to supply more. As for this source itself, it is a close-kept secret, even among our own people, for the simple reason that the last time the source was given it nearly led to the destruction of a galactic arm due to sheer mass production. Forgive me, but it is not a matter of trust, but rather the risk of a leak occurring is not one we can afford at the moment, especially in the current state of this galaxy."
She then pulled up a copy of the FDC Treaty with two areas highlighted in the first and fifth articles. Kelrin's posture shifted, leaning forward in a more concerned look. "Moving on, there are two notes on the FDC Treaty that my fellow Inquisitors wanted to pass on. First and foremost is the presence of Black Sails Organization Freeports within Annoliddan space. These were originally constructed and placed when we first entered the galaxy, when having another faction gathering technology and scouting worlds for us seemed a logical move. However, especially with our continued involvement in galactic politics, they are becoming more trouble than they are worth to keep, especially now since holding them is in direct violation of Article 1, Section E. I was hoping to host another FDC meet to decide their fate, be it exile once more or simply place more control on their actions. But first I wanted to get a Dectrothian opinion before moving forward."
"I see, and understand the danger of such a material, we will simply rely on you for such materials to prevent any future disasters." Tapping his fingertips together, creating a small metallic tapping sound, Lance thought it over, thinking through all the angles, consequences, possible outcomes, before opening his mouth "Well, at the FDC meet, we wanted the Black Sail Organization to be dealt with in a manner that least affected both parties, to prevent any retaliation against yourself. Enemies of the Dectrose as they are, we still realize that they are integrated in your nation, and it's a delicate affair. However."
"With the UWA and UDS declaring war, we would like the process hastened a little, since they are an organization that could ally with the enemies declaring war and give them vital information for a price. I would say, in this state of war, to exercise some observation on their activities, and remove some of them from your nation, the next FDC meet will address them fully and decide their fate. Personally, it wouldn't take much effort to simply help them move out, rather than forcefully do so. I would talk to the Black Sail Organization, and see what can be done to remove their presence in a way that least hurts both parties." He nodded after finishing, leaning back and placing his interlocked hands neatly on his chest.
"Very well. Thank you for the input." Kelrin swiped further down the Treaty. "Moving on, this next part is quite interesting from a military standpoint: many of my fellow Inquisitors have expressed interest in Article 5 particularly for the use of joint tactical training and combat execution. They wish to make use of the facilities on Taufe for this purpose, yet are also willing to supply more resources to expand and improve both the facility and the training regimen."
"That would be both more than welcome and greatly appreciated, right now we can supply Carnaithian I/A-50's that have been imported and modified for Dectrothian use for a universal rifle, though it is encouraged to bring your own indigenous firearms and vehicles for the training, to familiarize the troops with the ins and outs of the equipment their allies use. We also have a Drive Yard we have built at a planet called Stjerne. It's perfect for engineers and other elements of space fleets to mingle and learn more about each other's ships and crews. We where looking to add this drive yard to the FDC Treaty as soon as possible."
"Would you also be interested in that?"
"Yes, indeed! Ysoln will be quite pleased with such a facility. Also..." Kelrin again produced another hologram, this one taking the form of a large cylinder with various cross-sections showing the internal workings.
"It may take quite some time to convert it to other lifeforms' biology, but I do believe our simulation pods will further assist in training on both a tactical and strategic level, allowing FDC commanders to enact full-on wargames using their live troops in the simulations, minus the risk of actually harming one another."
Lance chuckled "Well, it should actually be much easier to incorporate the simulation with our nation, we can store libraries of books in our internal database, play videos, games, and more just in our head. Still, such an advancement in our simulation technology will be a boon for the FDC." He was elated now, quite proud of the cooperation going on and the eagerness for advancement rivaled by his own nation.
Kelrin was quite pleased with the Rear Admiral's reaction. "Thank you Lance. Moving forward, is there anythinf else the Dectro-" her words were cut off by a two-toned beep in her ear. She seemed to rub her temple for a moment before continuing. "Forgive the interruption, but it seems our negotiations with the Vestahl commonwealth were unfruitful. In order to maintain our non-aggression pact with them, and to maintain relations within the AGA for the time being, we cannot provide direct military aid to the Dectrose in this conflict. However..." the hologram shifted again as supply lines between the two nations came into view. "This also means we can focus on supplying more materials and support to the Dectrose as a whole, what with not having to worry about our own fleets for now."
The hologram dissipated as Kelrin continued. "As I was saying, other than what has been presented thus far, is there anything else the Annoliddan Inquisition can do for the Dectrose Empire at this time?"
His expression shifted from elation to worry, the mention of the AGA troubled him the most. "That is quite worrisome news, the Commonwealth from our own reports had minimal interaction in the whole debate between the Dectrose and UWA, as well, the Shadows that have appeared in that sector are likely more cause for worry than the Dectrose would be to them.. And, is AGA looking to get involved in this conflict as a whole or just a few parties? It just doesn't make much sense to waste lives over a disagreement between three parties." Lance sighed and tapped his fingertips together.
"Do what you can, we understand that politics and diplomacy are some thin sheets of ice to walk over. The Dectrose have held put before, and none in this galaxy have seen us in action, it may delay some plans, but we will remain in contact with you. Though.. you did mention what we could do.. would you wish for more open doors? As in allowing each other's people to migrate to one another's planets? Should the Dectrose become worried, it would be beneficial to have a place they can go until this war blows over."
"I am uncertain as to what extent the AGA and its members wish to get involved. This may be go a number of ways, but until the fighting officially starts we cannot risk declaring war against our other allies." She sighed deeply. "As for migration, I would be delighted to see both our civilian and private sectors mingling more. Your people's use of cybernetics, especially neurological implants, will prove quite useful in that regard."
"Quite so, though we'd need to develop some interface in our cerebral augments to translate your telepathy into General, it shouldn't be too difficult." He gave a light smile "Just keep us in mind if things go sour with the AGA, the Dectrose have had your six since day one, and we see no reason to stop now. We may have leaned in different directions, but you're still a valued ally and friend to the Dectrose Empire." He nodded and stood up, slowly picking up his node, as if reluctant to leave.
"For now, I must submit my report. Fear may be contagious, but so is hope, and you have definitely given us hope. Until next time?"
She stood and bowed to the fellow representative. "Until next time, Rear Admiral Lance. May your journey home be swift, and may your people stay safe."
Lance saluted and returned the bow, before departing, soon he hoped.. Soon he could put this mess of a war behind him and maybe take a vacation, after all, aquatic races sure had humid air, it reminded him of home.