Post by EmperorMyric on Apr 1, 2021 17:15:49 GMT
Askandar System: Elwars Space
It was clear that the damage from the previous Shadows invasion had been all repaired for some time. Especially given that the regions surrounding Askan were luscious green, covered with forests and plains as far as the eye could see dotted with crystal clear lakes and more. The terraforming project was going extremely well and it was the perfect time to show this off with the coming banquet.
The Dirge contingent had arrived on Askandar only three days earlier and had been given a yet to be used industrial warehouse area by the mayor of Askan overseen by Elwar himself and it had become rapidly converted into a large food store and processing facility. Many citizens had come to watch the Dirge at work, given that the news of the event had spread far and wide the banquet wasn’t just a diplomatic meeting it was being held in the capital in the streets for everyone with Dirge and Elwar constructs catering. Parties and celebrations were being held early to mark the rebuilding of Askandar and all throughout work and duties were being put on hold or taken over by constructs for the events. The atmosphere was palpable and Elwar observed it from every angle through his constructs at all levels including his own avatar which walked among the people. He was happy that such an event could help those further and this was a perfect way to celebrate their victory a couple of years earlier.
It was almost time for the event however, the huge orbital spire in the centre of Askan had been chosen to host the event, near the top a suite had been opened up to allow for the guests to mingle and discuss while courses from each attending nation would be brought in a series of rounds. Elwar hoped this relaxed atmosphere would help harbour more casual relations with the members present, after all both UNA and Askandar defenders had been invited along with others on good relations with both him and the Dirge. In time Elwar hoped such an event would benefit the region and help drive out any bad blood between nations. After all, the Shadows were vanquished and the threat of AURA was all but gone.
Now was to await the arrivals.
The Pords
Unlike many of the other UNA members and polities of the Frontier, the various Pordish domains nearly missed the Shadow conflict in its entirety. The arrival of the Alabaster Kingdom came just shy of the awesome conclusion of the Shadow's removal from this reality - a conclusion that many within the Colonial Council and VRZ knew would be unwise to overlook. Thus given the very nature of the situation (a series of events that, ostensibly, were on Hol nam-Pelchaaq's doorstep) Pordish participation in the final battle was assured.
And so in the wake of the Battle off Zaingraf, maintaining an eye out for similar threats was deemed to be a matter of great importance, an opinion that guided the Council's subsequent decision to join the United Nations of the Avarian, among other - lesser - reasons. It was then once within this organization that the High Hunters found themselves met with ample opportunity to reach out to and work with the celestial neighbours of the Alabaster Kingdom; one such opportunity that presented itself was that of a great feast, held within the beating heart of Elwar's dominion: Askandar.
High Hunter Balyt Kalglok wasted no time in tending to the invitation to gather on Askandar. Upon hearing of the intention to serve dishes from around the galaxy, he established a team to work with the Dirge and Elwar to ensure that only the best Pordish dishes would be served, and he was confident that his selections would give an appropriate glimpse into Pordish culture. When the time came for him to depart to the world in question, he did so with high spirits, joined only by his aide and a few essential lower administrative members of the Colonial Council.
A single diplomatic cruiser arrived in orbit and was ushered to a berth. High Hunter Kalglok, clad in the azure robes of the Hunters, made his way to the surface accompanied by his aide, Ulatüt. The two slowly headed to the banquet hall while chatting idly to one another about the sights of the world. Lush greenery and rolling plains, it seemed, had friends here - an enjoyable change in pace from the realities set forth by myriad other star-states across the void - an unfortunate state of affairs advanced by those all too eager to maintain it. Yet still, when they finally entered the banquet hall, they turned their attention to the other parties present, and began to review faces to see if any familiar or interesting ones were about.
It had been weeks since the two meetings that formed the PGL and UNA, and just a few months after the battle with the shadows. Back home the election was turning ugly as recent events were being politicized in the current election for the new head of state. Despite the backing of the current Pirsakin, Nyarai Oni Jang, the opposition was polling better and the elections were just a short month away. This of course was one of many causes for concern for the now effectively exiled forces that rallied under the then Commodore-Emeritus Taravis to fight at the final battle with the shadows. The few ships yards left in the sliver of space controlled by the Dominion in the former Davian Territories (Now called Saraya) were overburdened with mauled vessels that came back from the conflict months ago. Mactan Base was slowly making its way to the territory under heavy escort which stretched Taravis’s forces thin. Complicating matters was the difficulty moving a starbase of that size; it took weeks at best speed. Thankfully there were the disparate individual commands trickling in to join the growing fleet of dispossessed former Risallan naval assets, a minor blessing.
This was not a great time for the now-nationless forces under Commodore-Emeritus Taravis, however in this fog of politics, migration, reconstruction and repercussions, the invitation arrived. At first it was an impossibility to attend as an open cultural exchange event would be a noticeably sore topic. It was Captain Olouchi, Taravis’s third in command who changed all that when he said; “The galaxy at large doesn’t need to know anything is wrong, that mess at home will settle itself either in one month or ten years. Either way, keeping up appearances will be for the best politically and strategically.” At first neither Commodore-Emeritus Taravis or Commodore Urajak wanted to admit Olouchi was right, but he was. It was crucial to maintain morale and this was a means to do it that cost very little to achieve. It would take just shy of a week to work the kinks out of the operation, it was decided that it would be wise to make a splash.(edited)
Commodore-Emeritus Taravis decided that it would draw more attention, and increase morale more if he sent one of the new Kuvuanimifu-kiru vessels on the diplomatic mission under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel Sulimarne. This was a decision that grasped the politics of the moment, the ship and its line was unknown outside of the Dominion so it would draw attention. Since it was the newest warship made by the Dominion and the few that were active duty or nearly so sided with Taravis, putting one front and center would definitely bode well politically. That single vessel would be sent, with the diplomatic livery of Kilkenny green painted visibly across the major facings. In the spots where the Risallas Dominion’s insignia might have gone the PGL’s logo was placed, and secondarily a black and white outline of the Sarayan territory with each major star marked in silver. IFF codes would be the standard ones for a PGL warship, but aside from the alterations for a diplomatic mission the IFF would not give data on what classification the ship was or any detailed data.
The RAS -Elẹtàn arrived in high orbit with utmost punctuality, somehow Lieutenant-Colonel Sulimarne predicted the additional inquires due to the vessels lack of known insignia and accounted for slowed progress and stoppages. As a matter of procedure the ship did not dock it instead remained on standby and utilized shuttles to move the needed personnel, materials and equipment over for the event. As some might find out, the Lt-Colonel was methodical about overseeing preparation of the Itanyii’s part of this event, their group had arrived on time to handle preparations and was set up and ready before the big event was to begin. This left the Lt-Colonel time to get to the Banquet hall and perhaps if lucky meet with some delegates before the distraction of food was a concern.
Askandar System
15 AU from Planet Askandar
A roiling black cloud appeared at the Askandar system. Like smoke from an unseen fire, it seemed to arise out of the very fabric of space, issuing from the continuum and spreading into a cloud a hundred kilometers in diameter. a blaze of red quark-gluon plasma raged within the darkness, causing the individual motes of blackness to reflect red light in flowing, flickering patterns. From the depths of the cloud a voice came forth, resonating space and communicating directly with Elwar.
*Greetings Elwar, I am Nyriel-L'Eral and I represent the Anais Unity, we have come in answer to the dinner invitation. * A ship emerged from the eerily glowing black cloud-one of the Ministry of State's diplomatic cruisers. The ship closed the distance to Askandar quickly, slowing as it approached the world. It was hard to tell that Askandar had recently been ravaged by the Shadows of Zaingraf, Following Elwar's instructions the cruiser entered orbit and a shuttle emerged. Once it landed the occupants emerged and made their way to where the guests were gathering,
Leading the group was Sector Minister Nelyrien, ranking member of the Ministry of State the Unity had in Ancerious. He wore a traditional Naacal robe, and nodded to the other guests as he entered. He looked towards Elwar as well as the Pordish and Risallas delegates. "Greetings to you all on behalf of the Anais Unity. A magnificent job on the environmental repairs I much say Elwar. But I look forward to this, not just as a diplomat, but as an individual."(edited)
Next were two other humanoids. An amber skinned man almost 6 feet in height, with white hair and a sharp set of facial features, Light seemed to reflect in tiny spots all over his skin, as if he had a crystalline veneer to his skin, He wore a black formal suit, and bowed to Elwar. "Greeting on behalf of the Lenari people Elwar. I am Nesharra, assistant to the Planetary Administrator of New Lenara. I am honored to be present here." Accompanying him was a human appearing woman in a long satin gown, a necklace of gold and crystal around her neck. Her brown hair flowed halfway down her back. "Salutations to all. I am Liena, Priest of the Anais Twins and representative of the Chimeran peoples. I am truly glad to have the opportunity to get to know you all better.
The next individual was nowhere near humanoid. A hexapedal form, with a golden colored pelt, his head looked akin to an odd mix of feline and almost Nucleanoid features. He wore a series of harnesses carrying various items of equipment, and a pistol of some sort. He smiled, revealing a mouthful of very sharp teeth, and then bend upward behind the forelegs, appearing centauroid in form. Moving one of his forelegs, which seemed to be partly metal and crystal- to his chest in salute, he said with a growling tone. Field Commander Enasse, Lynassa's Claw Lift Infantry Division. I am responsible for the security of our delegation." Licking his lips he added "Looking forward to sampling the meats as well." with a toothy smile.
The next member of the delegation was humanoid-but by no means related to humans. Appearing as a semi hunched over Lupine looking creature, he wore a kind of equipment similar to Enasse's, over what appeared to be a kind of suit, though oddly cut to accommodate his tail. "Hello. This is my first semi-formal affair outside of our own territory since the Shadow War, My name's Aufsghenzr. I represent the Vita Shetani, latest... well, next to latest of the Anais Unity's member species. I concur with my Kalizwah associate here...Where's the meat?"
The last to enter the room was by far the oddest. Standing a notably larger distance from the other delegates. a spinning series of 6 flat, tilted planes of distorted space surrounded what appeared to be an obsidian statue of a male with the typical androgynous Mu characteristics. Though appearing to be made of crystal or mineral, the being moved with a fluid grace. Red flame seemed to flare in and out of existence inside him, and a blazing corona of red quark-gluon plasma danced around his form, Additional red light seemed to flicker inside his hair-fine filaments of the same odd material he was made of. lighting the hair like a fiber optic lamp. His voice seemed to sing in the air. "I bring greetings to you all, I am Nyriel-L'Eral, I speak for the Anyth. Please do not try and get past my phase barriers. They are their for your protection as the touch of my form is quite...lethal. He seemed to stop for a second, then looked towards the Dreamer. Greetings. he resonated.
“I’m beginning to suspect you don’t like your hair Ms. O’Shea,” Gordon Hall commented, watching as the stylist working on her hair undid her bun and shook out her red locks before beginning again, opting for a different style entirely.
“I don’t,” She snapped. “It was easy in the army. I could rock the ‘hacked off with a combat knife’ look, but I’ve been told that doesn’t fly with diplomats,”
“Perhaps you should hire a stylist?” The SIS agent suggested, crossing one leg over the other.
“Perhaps you should mind your own fucking business!” The red head snapped.
“Touchy today are we?”
She sighed and let go of the braid, letting her hair fall out once more while she rubbed her eyes.
“Sorry,” She apologized at last. “I’m just not good at this,”
“Diplomacy? Your recent promotion to Ambassador to the PGL…”
“No, no,” She said. “Parties. I don’t do these high society parties. You know, dinners and galas and shit. I’m more the type to get wasted at a dive and then start a fight in an alley,”
“Classy,”
She raised a single finger in response, not bothering to look in Gordon’s direction. Then, for the umpteenth time, she shook her head and the stylist began working on her hair again. Gordon held back a chuckle and turned his wrist, glancing down at the time.
“This one will have to do,” He said, uncrossing his legs and leaning back in his chair. “We’ll be late if you change your mind again,”
“Alright, alright,” She mumbled, fingers weaving through her hair and then finally tying off the braid. “There, how do I look?”
She turned toward him and he stood from his chair, walking over he straightened her jacket, made small adjustment to her dress, and finally pronounced that she was fit to be seen in public. Her appearance finally deemed satisfactory, the pair left together, taking a short walk across the embassy ground to the car waiting to take them to the dinner itself.
“The food was sent?” D’Arcy asked.
“Yes,” Gordon answered.
“You made sure everything was top grade?”
“I did,”
“You tasted to make sure they didn’t fuck it up?”
“Good lord Ms. O’Shea,” He said with a chuckle. “Everything is in order. If you stress over every detail of every social engagement you are asked to attend then you will worry yourself into an early grave,”
She didn’t answer, taking the hint and deciding to stew on her anxieties in silence as Askandar’s landscape flashed by as the made their way toward the central spire and the banquet awaiting them there.
“Do try to at least seem to be enjoying yourself,” Gordon commented, casting a sideways glance at his charge before returning his gaze to his tablet. “Have you seen this?”
He turned the tablet, showing a recently published news article detailing the arrival of the Dominion’s delegation. D’Arcy cursed softly under her breath.
“Should I have made a bigger entrance?”
“There’s something to be said for modesty,”
“That wasn’t an answer,”
“It was not meant to be,”
Further conversation was cut short as their driver announced their arrival. Together, the pair stepped out of the vehicle, and D’Arcy dutifully took her compatriot’s arm as the two made their way to the banquet hall.
“Don’t forget to smile,” Gordon commented, moments before they entered. To her credit, the diplomat had always been good at faking her emotions. An easy smile came to her features and she walked into the banquet hall.
As was common amongst the men and women of the diplomatic corp, both were dressed modestly. There were no opulent jewels on display, nor luxurious fabrics incorporated into their clothing, but nonetheless they had arrived in formal wear. D’Arcy wore an emerald colored dress that accented her red hair nicely, while Gordon wore a three piece suit adhering to all the latest fashion trends of the Capital.
Together, the pair made a round of the banquet hall, greeting and being greeted in turn before they finally came to a stop near Sulimarne. Even in social settings, it seemed the once warrior was more comfortable in proximity to allies.
Upon the edge of the system came the slightest blip of a lone Annoliddan ship, slightly smaller than a cruiser, and promptly came into orbit over Askandar. Its IFF and other markers matched Inquisition, but the profile was noticeably different than others: no external weapons, limited scanners, and design giving a more fluid, organic appearance. Two shuttles descended, the first larger heading straight to the Dirge food processing area. A dozen cybernetically equipped annoliddans departed, setting to work unloading their myriad of cooking equipment and ingredients at their designated stations in the district with flair, making a show of their utensil-tipped hands and striking a rhythmic tune with their instruments for the passerby and citizens on the streets.
The second smaller shuttle landed at the designated spot for dignitaries and attendees of the event. Four figures departed and made way to the inner city, continuing by foot once within an appreciable distance. With a toothy grin and upbeat stride, artisan Maero led the small group, gibbering excitedly of the reformations and terraforming that had been occurring since the last time the inquisitor behind him had been on-world.
"Ha! I'm only glad these lil' buggers aren't trying to flay me this time." Inquisitor Grodan chimed in quietly. He did not want to undo the cheery atmosphere by reminding passerby that these constructs were once the planet's number one threat. His form drew enough attention as it was, standing head and shoulders above his fellow annoliddans and being quite brawny despite the lack of gear or armor. He and Maero wore matching outfits only differing in size; The Inquisition garb consisted of a sleeveless white jacket cut off at the abdomen and topped by a crimson sash wrapped over the waist and right shoulder and baggy pants adorned with wavy lines of silver. The two following behind them wore less modest outfits, the man wearing a red five-piece suit lined in literal silver trimming and the woman a matching red jacket over an iridescently shining dress, her one eye lined ornamentally with piercings. Both had a distant look on their faces, telepathically bickering like the married couple they were, yet smiled and waved as they made way into the banquet hall.
Grodan introduced the others, placing a cybernetic had across his chest as he bowed to Elwar.
“It is a pleasure to finally meet you!” Maero exclaimed to Elwar. “These two are Michkelan and Darsinia, CEOs of trading companies handling the resource management for my efforts here, among others,” He said, motioning to the man and woman, respectively.
Hazel Kelly sat in a conference room filled with some of the best Xenopologists the Republic could hire in the short time frame. Each one had a different species to focus on and were to provide a brief yet informative guide on how to deal with the various species attending the banquet. This was all at Hazel's request as Secretary of State, which she was beginning to regret as her older brain was not as good at learning as her younger brain would of been a scant few decades ago. She was a native Marnish, born and raised on the planet in the endless cityscape that encompassed the planet. This was the final briefing she had with her experts and the last chance to iron out any details she and her Vice-Secretary Vance Cole had. She sat there in her formal party attire, a dark blue dress that hung from the shoulders and came down to her ankles, it had minimal extras and 'frilly bits' but the seams of the dress were done with a gold trim. Vance was also a Marn and the same porcelain white skin as Hazel. He wore a black suit with a dark blue bow tie and like Hazel a pin on his left press that had the Republic flag with its dark blue background with the Ancerious Galaxy in the middle. The briefing had finished no sooner then they ship was set to leave Republic Space. The Xenopologists were shuffled out and taken off the diplomatic ship that was en route to Askander.
-
The ship made an ordinary entrance in the system just beyond Askanders planetary Interdiction and it began a smooth cruise through space towards the docking station. The two secretaries mewled about the conference room going over their notes for the event as well as publicised guest lists. They had spent the time from when the invitation was sent to their arrival, learning about the attendants, their nations, their species and their cultures to make the best impression possible. It wasn't long until they were docked and left the confines of the ship and made their way to gathering.
"Good luck Vance, don't try to offend anyone." Hazel said curtly to her underling
"Like wise madam secretary, don't get us into a war over a miscommunication." Vance replied similarly
When they arrived they had their first target in sight, Elwar. They would move to greet the AI and offer their respects for hosting the event as well as the help he gave in founding the United Nations of the Avarian. They stood a respectful distance away from his avatar however once they saw that the Annolidans had already beaten them.
The past three days had been interesting to say the least. The Dreamer and Taox talked at length about a multitude of topics, ranging from galactic politics, to simple personal questions. The dreamer took particular interest in the possibility of reviving old joint projects between the wayside following leadership changes within the U.E.E. The platform was in constant flux, providing a number of emulated locale's to fit the conversation, as well as providing for the Echotian parties needs. All the while the blue pearl hanging far in the distance took shape, and green had begun to spread across the various land masses.
In a moment of silence between both groups, the walls of the Cavernous space expanded, numerous gaps formed along the walls, and a flurry of countless biological shapes rushed in a constant torrent, quickly taking roost within the cavernous space, or travelling further into the ringworld through the various passages. As silence quickly fell once more, the Dreamer turned to Taox, her nomad fleets now residing within her,
“It would seem that this conversation must come to a draw. The first of the diplomats are soon to arrive. If it's acceptable, i intend to make a grand entrance.”
The dreamer gave a quick smirk towards Taox
Taox nodded, understanding the queue for his preparation. "I will see to it that preparations are taken; I would not want to arrive unprepared and stain your image. This conversation has been quite a pleasure, I do hope we can continue to develop these proposals at a later date?"
"Take your time, we believe a late entrance will punctuate our arrival best. We will wait, as you will be unable to act during transit. Is there anything you require of me in regards to your preparations?" As the dreamer finished her query, her immense form began to split down the center, beginning at her finger tips, a number of limbs began to sprout off of the immense form, each a variation of inversion of the primary limb. The multiple forms of dreamer quickly integrated themselves into the walls of the ringworld, leaving the primary body, stark white and red, now only the size of the Corvette the echo's came in on. She curled herself around the platform as a new cavern began to emerge facing the interior walls of the ring works. The platform began to slowly shift beneath the Echotian's feet, and the part boarded their craft and made preparations to depart. As soon as they gave the all clear, a thin narrow band of light quickly shot through the cavernous space. Taox watched as the band swelled before becoming an inky black void that soon collapsed the entire ringworld into this immense 2-dimensional object, leaving behind the graveyard of a civilization.
Above the Matrioska brain three quarters of a the galaxy away, a band of white light appeared, roughly half a dozen AU in diameter. Thanks to the gravitational Mastery of the dirge along with the complex machinations of Elwar, they had settled on an exact location in which the ring could be properly 'unveiled' to the galaxy at large while allowing the dirge to nullify its impact on the orbital bodies below, putting the ringworlds destination firmly above the orbital plane, its interior overlapping with some of the outermost spires of Elwar's project.
The band ballooned and blossomed, in an instant the band tightened slightly before erupting at once revelign the Dreamer's body, an Immense ringworld 6Au in diameter with multiple spires ranging from half an AU to several light seconds in length, reaching both outwards and inwards. There would be a brief ripple of gravitational waves equal to many stellar masses before the various spires began to work on negating the Rings effect on the surrounding space. As the breakdown and reassembly of information was near instantaneous, it took a moment for Taox and his crew to realize they had moved at all. The platform his craft was resting upon had finished its alteration, the light in the Cavernous space had all but faded, leaving that single blue pearl in the distance as they departed
Toax was immediately informed of their updated position by enthusiastic deckhands aboard his corvette even as the macrys pinged them for arrival. His smile cut across his face as he excitedly prepared himself for departure, donning a white suit underneath a cerulean coat. His helm formed up around his head as he embarked into a personal vessel and made his way planetside.
---///--------
Without guards, and with the Dirge already having prepared the Echotian dishes he had provided, Toax was free to enter alone and unencumbered, basking in the atmosphere of the guests already present and greeting those whom he saw eyeing his arrival. It was a wonderful feeling, to walk among those whose forms did not resemble nightmarish leviathans, and he savored every moment.
Several stories below the gathering assembly was a flurry of activity. The 'kitchen' area was a series of sequestered spaces, providing each national group of chefs their own workstation to ensure complete control over the meals was seceded to their respective nations. The workspace itself was an expansive series of lifts, cooking implements and equipment culminating in a truly bizzare giger-esque picture. While Elwar handled the logistics of the operation, the Dirge opted to take a more direct involvement in the meal preparation itself, the room was built of mechanical scaffolding filled in with constantly shifting pearlescent walls that provided to the direct and immediate demands of the gathered workforces. Wit h her body being clearly within view, The Dreamer opted to make her 'grand entrance' Entering via lift flanked by one of Elwar's representations. Behind her stood the bridge crew of an annolllidian ship who had a previously presumed fatal encounter, dressed in finery. In this incarnation, she was only slightly larger than an average human, with 6 equally sized limbs, and a sleek marble skin tone. She held her arms open wide and projected her voice to the entire room, “My friends, welcome, we are pleased to have you, please enjoy yourselves, and the fruits of the labour of the many skilled people who have our gratitude.”
The first meal to be brought out was that of Veshtahl. It was a point of pride of Vestahl's chefs to source ingredients grown in their natural environment, and so quality was preferred over quantity so as to not disrupt the natural populations within the old growths. Rather, a number of regional chefs and teams had gathered to prepare their own exquisite dishes, and as the last of the guests had arrived the lift silently began shuttling the various wait staff into action. The meal was quickly rolled out, as the doors opened the room was immediately flooded with the scent of smoked and flame grilled meats, prepared with various tart and savoury marinates. The centrepiece of this course was wheeled out by several of Elwar's representations on a hover cart, a whole slow smoked Caranol. It was flanked by several smaller plates filled with thinly sliced meats and hearty breads for sopping up sauces, as well as a number roasted vegetables and legumes.
The arrival of the guests and the various greetings happened fairly fluidly and quickly. The arrival of the Pordish delegation first had Elwar bid greeting to them through traditional Pordish custom which Elwar had learned through several cultural texts which had been shared in goodwill between the two peoples rapidly following by Elwar bowing to the Rissalas representative Sulimarne and greeting him on behalf of both Askandar as a fellow member of the UNA. Next came the Anais Unity representatives each one so different and yet so intriguing to Elwar, who politely bowed to each in turn and gestured for them to enter, also pointing out the initial starter appetizers located in the centre of the room to those guests already hungry. Elwar was however most interested in Nyriel-L'Eral, such an exotic form which Elwars Avatar visible responded to respect to. The study that could come from such a being would be most impressive.
Next Elwar had greeted the representatives of the Vestahl, the moment courteous and brief as it seemed they wished for, Elwar wished to discuss future relations with Vestahl of course but at the start of such a grand venture it seemed hardly the time as yet more guests arrived. With the Annolidian delegation bowing again as Grodan made the introductions, it did not escape the QAI that the last time the representative had likely been here Elwar had been trying to kill him. How far they had all come in such a short time frame given the situations Elwar had originally found itself in.
Elwar was brought out of brief contemplation with the arrival of the ACR who came over to offer greetings once the customary welcome of the Annolidian’s had been conducted. Elwar welcoming the ACR just the same, as equal founders of the UNA Elwar had been very pleased to put forward this proposition, this banquet. The Dreamer had come with the idea, but Elwar had hoped that this event would heal many wounds and establish a foundation for many within the west, regardless if they were UNA members or not.
And besides the site of Elwars grand megaproject and the Dreamers huge Ringworld together were a sight to behold.
With the Dreamers official arrival and announcement and the now rolling out of Vestahlts signature dish Elwar felt it the right time and prudent to talk to D’Arcy and engage in conversation. The large avatar form that Elwar inhabited had actually been specially constructed for this event, looking identical to his other form this one had a capacity he had never had before. The capacity to eat, and taste, and he had never done so before in his existence. Gathering a selection of the grilled meats, tarts and a large segment of the Caranol on a planet Elwar made his way over to D’Arcy and also Sulimarne who were stood chatting.
“Good day representatives, I hope I am not interrupting anything, I would wish to start by again offering my welcome here. And thought that perhaps I could share my first ever taste of food with the representative of the fine people who created it” Elwar was genuine as he picked up one of the tarts and seemed to study it for a moment, before taking a bite and eating it. Instantly AI seemed to hesitate, purely for the sheer barrage of sudden new sensations it was experiencing.
”… This is how your biology’s take on more energy? I must have been missing something all these years” Elwar exclaimed, somewhat for a moment overwhelmed, but clearly having enjoyed the sensation.
D'Arcy smiled to Elwar as he approached, only barely managing to suppress a giggle as he enjoyed his first bites of food. She wondered what that must be like, tasting food for the first time... she doubted it was an experience she could relate to...
"You may not think you were missing anything if you'd ever spent a month broke and living on instant noodles," She said with a soft chuckle. "By the end of it I would have been quite content to never taste anything again,"
Thus far the venue was starting to fill with some interesting representatives and species some of which Sulimarne had only seen in digital representation. This was good, it meant many opportunities to speak with other species and perhaps negotiate agreements or lay the foundation for agreements. Sulimarne did not have long to take in the scene before the Vestahl delegation arrived and moved within casual conversation range. He acknowledged their presence with a polite nod and an offered handshake. It didn’t take much to notice that Sulimarne wasn’t Itanyi, the majority species of the Dominion, he looked the part but subtle things were not precisely accurate. “Ah, there you are, it is a delight to meet you and yours in person. Commodore-Emeritus Taravis has spoken quite well of you.” Sulimarne didn’t introduce himself by name because everyone present was listed on the attendance with images of the persons in question. “I think this outing should be the start of something…” Sulimarne didn’t quite get a chance to finish as Elwar arrived and tasted something for the first time. “Oh no, just pleasantries, I bid you a good day as well, I must apologize for not making it over to offer greetings sooner.” Sulimarne paused to glance at what one of the Dominion staff was taste-testing, some of the newly arrived foods while wearing a neural cradle device which in turn would allow Sulimarne to experience a limited version of what the staffer was experiencing in terms of culinary delights. “Yes it is the way most species experience it and that is what makes the universe quite impressive, the variety of means to encounter it.”
With so many present, Taox was alive with the diplomatic choices at his disposal, not unlike the meal before them, a buffet of potential conversations presented themselves.
His macrys lit up as he scanned the room, identifying two delegates who did not seem to be preoccupied by the chatter around them. Why not take a chance?
The Echotian approached the ones the Dreamer had named as guests from the ACR, a nation that had not met the U.E.E. according to his records.
"Salutations, Kelly'ra and Cole'vo. I am Taox'vos of the U.E.E., and I would like to extend this most gracious of greetings to yours truly. It is not often that coalitions such as these occur; how wonderous to have encountered you under such benevolent surcumstances?"
As the hall fills with individuals, Kalglok continues to scan the gathered for any who might be familiar with him. The first to catch his attention is Sector Minister Nelyrien, to whom he returns a short bow. It seems in the hustle and bustle, and the various other greetings he exchanges, that many have trickled in around Elwar.
And Kalglok, too, has arrived by the AI: his reaction to food for the first time prompts a smile from the Pord and his aide.
We might as well enjoy this food as well, he says to Ulatüt.
Ulatüt nods and is first to fill his plate with the food from Veshtahl. After a bite, he says,this meat is good, and then, after swallowing, I think you should try some.
I'll try this bread first, Kalglok replies. He shovels a piece into his mouth and slides on over to the ACR and Echotian representatives, and introduces himself with a bow: I do hope I am not intruding, he says. The High Hunter Council does send its regards to both of your people.
"It surely is quite... Elating, I will have to experience these noodles you speak of" Elwar smiled, slowly tucking into the collection of different foods placed upon the platter, each one giving a new burst of taste and experiences with which he was quite utterly fixated. He dedicated a vast amount of his processing power to these experiences, other regions on low priority construction and the like suffering temporary lag or inactivity as he wished to analyse everything about what he was tasting before he realised that he was in front of guests. The AI stopped and looked up.
"I apologise. It is rude of me to merely stand and consume food as I understand it in cultures. I wished to congratulate both of you on the formation of the PGL, I truly believe alliances bring stability and I hope that the UNA and PGL can work closely together in the future" Elwar bowed in respect before looking to D'Arcy "I hope that the Vestahl are also doing well these days, I feared your people had suffered something terrible when the final battle came and you did not show. I wont lie I missed your forces presence, you fought extremely well here in defence of my world. But triumph still came thankfully, and at least a few more lives were saved from potential losses. Is there anything I can do to assist the Commonwealth at this particular time?"
Hazel was surprised by the two representatives approaching them, she felt quite popular for a moment then remembered that she was representing one of the largest nations in the galaxy. The Echotian was a surprising one with the strange titles he added to the end of her names, but this was a good opportunity to open a channel to another powerful nation in the galactic east where Republic holdings were far and few between. The Pord approaching them was a welcomed sight of a soon to be very steadfast ally of the Republic with Morrisons achieving all the goals given to her in a previous meeting with the Pords.
"Greeting Taox'vos, it is a nice to meet new people under these circumstances rather then boring diplomatic meetings or in more hostile scenarios." She replied politely
"You've travelled some way for a banquet, i hope your flight to the Avarian was a peaceful one, we've had some pirate troubles this end of the galaxy lately." Vance added
"And no, you're not interrupting at all, come join the conversation. We always have time for the Pords." Hazel said smiling at the man.
Taox gave a respectful nod; though he was slightly vexed by the interjection of the Pord, he dared not express it here.
"If I may be so bold as to speak on behalf of the House of Kings, then may I return such a gesture."
His attention focused back to Hazel and Vance as his helm hissed slightly, the light from within shifting with his gaze.
"Ah, well, as much as I relish the thought of in-flight entertainment, I was fortunate enough to have had an escort in the form of Dirge. It has been quite a journey, further than I have ever travelled, and to find myself amidst such a gathering of notable figures is an honour."
The Exemplar turned, nimbly plucking four Vestahllian drinks from a passing tray and turning back to the others.
"Come, let us drink to new relations and new friends."
The dreamer's eye split into multiple different retina, and scanned the room. As Elwar quickly disappeared into the crowd she searched for a particular party, as she had something that belonged to them, before her eyes settled on Grodan. She produced a small, curt smile, and began over towards them. The multitude of limbs sprouting form her shoulder grasped frantically at the tables as she passed by, nimbly darting in between dignitaries present. She took stalk of the figure, and adjusted her proportions accordingly, condensing the muscle fibres in her leg to be roughly a half a head shorter in stature than Grodan, to appear less threatening.
Her fingers wrapped around the edges of her plate, small vacuums forming at the very tips of her slender fingers, pulling foodstuffs into them for consumption. This was not the first time the Dreamer had formed a body for itself. This was however, the first time it had forged a body to inhabit, that was design to be as they are . The dreamer's smile faded from her face for a moment as she found herself dissatisfied with the meal, though she continued to eat to maintain appearances. The sensation was like... kissing through saranwrap. Devoid of real feeling beyond the superficial qualities. Filtering her immense stream of consciousness through a single host was an imperfect art. As the awareness of the entirety of the Dirge hivemind became honed and focused through that single, biological body, a psionic thrum that would be familiar to those that had encountered the dirge while they were still trapped in the dream. Cutlery and glasses began to rattle as the dreamer neared her destination, as the immense potential of the hivemind began to spill through the imperfect body, and for a brief second all movement in the kitchen area and the immense ring-world ceased.
She felt a nudging at the edge of her perception that pulled her aware back, the immense network resumed its activity. She glanced towards the six figures that trailed closely behind her, The bridge crew of an Annolidian craft that had initiated first contact with dirge over a year ago. Each were dressed in what they considered to be finery, resulting in a number of clashing styles and colours forming a truly...unique procession. The leader of the first contact mission returned the dreamer's glance with a smirk of his own, as he withdrew his mind. As she stopped before the Annodidian group, the psionic bleeding had all but stopped, and many of the plates she carried were now empty, cleaned spotless.
“Greetings, annolidiants, for our second encounter.. Before we may begin to establish a proper diplomatic rapport, there is something i must return to you..” The dreamer sidestepped and gestured towarsds the 6 bridge crew with several of her primary limbs.
“we apologize for any inconvenience their deaths may have caused towards your people. The rest of the crew are several decks bvelow us partaking of the festivities. If transporting them is inconvenient for you, we can oversee their safe return home after the banquet draws to a close.”
"Of course, new friends are always welcomed." Hazel replied politely taking a glass.
"The more the merrier as they say." Vance said also taking a glass.
"So do the Echotonians and the Dirge share a long and fulfilling history of cooperation?" Hazel asked Taox.
Taox took a respectful taste of the drink, his warhelm parting with a gentle hiss, to allow the fluid into his mouth.
"Indeed. They were the first in fact to greet us into this new galaxy, and have remained loyal ever since. The United Echotian Empire considers them good friends and staunch allies."
He smiled beneath the helm, satisfied with the beverage that reminded him he was far from House territory.
"Though perhaps I shall fool myself as being the latest to the gathering? What, may I ask, has been your peoples relations with our great Dreamer?"
Kalglok nods and continues to eat. He catches himself, however, and slows up - more dishes are due to come and it wouldn't be prudent to become full before having the opportunity to taste all of what is being provided.
As the Echotian addresses Hazel, Kalglok grabs a glass of drink and turns towards the ACR representative. On the heels of a drink and the Echotian query, he says, hopefully amicable, although perhaps this is a great opportunity to mend things if not.
Sulimarne mentally noted the social faux pas but was not offended by it, after all it could empathize with Elwar in the arena of new experiences with species and their unique social expectations. “I do not believe any harm was done, I do agree with your ideas regarding the UNA and PGL, it seems the two organization’s objectives are similar enough that I cannot foresee anything but cooperation. It might be wise move towards a mutually beneficial agreement in the near future.” Sulimarne of course avoided any mention of the elections and political activity going on in the Dominion’s home territory. It was a touchy subject that honestly was kept as quiet as was possible, though that all Dominion official communications seemed to be coming from a specific location in the Dominion held sliver of the former Davian territories. It was only a matter of time before anyone noticed though hopefully not today. The mention of the Lack of Vestahl forces at the shadow battle was also considered a someone ‘hands off topic’, and admittedly While Sulimarne had anticipated it to come up it appeared sooner than expected. Even some military officials in the Dominion had wondered about the absence; Sulimarne had even heard Commodore-Emeritus Taravis musing about it in one instance during a staff meeting but it was deemed politically hazardous to approach the topic. Thankfully though Elwar, was probably the one sapient in the galaxy who could get away with asking flat out with no recriminations, and thankfully he did. Sulimarne looked towards the Vestahl representatives curious to see what they had to say about the incident. Sulimarne was mentally memorizing every bit of the interaction for a later recount and report specifically for the top brass later on.
To her credit, D'Arcy managed to keep her expression constant throughout Elwar's comment on the lack of a Commonwealth presence at the final battle against the Shadows. She had expected it was a subject that would likely come up, though she had hoped it may be longer before it did.
"The Commonwealth fairs well all things considered," She answered, first addressing the question of how the nation faired before addressing the absence from the battle at Zaingraf.
"But internal politics of the Commonwealth remain volatile. The civil war is still recent, and there is no shortage of people who wish to see the war continue nor is there any shortage of agitators and demagogues still wishing to extol the virtues of armed struggle against perceived injustices."
Security and defense resources were spread thin maintaining the fragile peace that had ended the civil war and securing the expanding borders of the Commonwealth. Doubly so when the Fleet had found itself having to conduct operations in and protect supply lines to Dectrose space on the opposite side of the galaxy.
"Several terror attacks frustrated our efforts to assemble forces for the attack at Zaingraf, I regret that the Commonwealth was unable to send forces in time to make a difference, but we will lend whatever aid we can to help with reconstruction and recovery efforts."
waAufsghenzr and Enasse sat at a table together, sampling meats from various quisines that Elwar had made for the event. They sat alone, which suited them fine as neither of their species was renowned as being at the forefront of Singer diplomacy….as odd as those two words sounded. Nonetheless Enasse, in his centauroid posture, calmly ate a meat dish from a world he forgot as soon as the delicious food touched his taste buds. Turning to Aufsghenzr he said “I have to say for an AI Elwar is quite a gourmand.” Laughing, his companion muttered “Surprised you know the word, the way you’re ahem wolfing down that stuff." Raising an eyebrow, the Kalizwah said “Puns? at a formal dinner? How gloriously painful."
The two laughed and then continued with their meals. Enasse noted Minister Nelyrien walking towards the Risallas delegation. “Now he’s a proper diplomat. Not like us two inglorious bastards, still, better to be like us then Bulbcloud over there.” He briefly glanced towards Nyriel-L'Eral, who floated about the room like an incarnate ghost. “Is he attending the dinner or haunting it?” *Both... * a voice seemed to come out of the air at their table. Swallowing Enasse said "Uhh...some more meat I think." and rose, walking to the table with the array of foods, Aufsghenzr walking along beside him.
Sector Minister Nelyrien had been enjoying the foods, but also realized this was also an opportunity for business of state. He approached Sulimarne, the head of the Risallas delegation. “Greetings. I was wondering if we could have some time to talk. I was curious about our states’ mutual investigation of the astronomical anomaly, and also wished to discuss some additional arrangements in the wake of the now thankfully resolved Zaingraf Incursion crisis.” He also nodded to Elwar. “You are an excellent host, Elwar. And the Anais Unity has much to discuss with you as well. It’s fortunate that the three of us conveniently met, is it not?"
Nyriel-L’Eral on the other hand could have been said to be almost melancholy. He could not engage in shaking hands or such greetings for fear of converting the other party. He tried some of the dishes but he could sense every quark in the food and how they all interacted to become baryons, atoms, molecules, and finally fruits vegetables and meats. *One downside to our ‘evolution' * he thought to himself. *Who can I speak to who could possibly understand? * He then looked over towards where the Dreamer stood, He floated over to the Dreamer, resonating as they drew close. *Greetings. Of all the beings and myriad life forms present I feel the most kinship with you. I am Nyriel-L’Eral. On behalf of my bondsiblings and the Anyth, I bring you salutations. *
"I agree Sulimarne I will definitely be pushing for better mutual co-operation. After all the pirate activity and the exploitation which has risen rapidly in the deadzone and the surroundings of this region worries me and is sure to be something we must all work together to curb in the future" Elwar then smiled to D'Arcy with a nod.
"I am glad to hear the Commonwealth is faring well, civil unrest I imagine is a tough order to keep on top of. If anything the reconstruction and recovery efforts may be the hardest part of the Shadows legacy, especially with the pirate and destabilising elements on the rise. If the Commonwealth does require any assistance however do not hesitate to ask, I also offer an invitation to the UNA if your people would so wish it. I firmly believe that now is the time for us to ensure that the co-operation that this region has enjoyed in the face of such darkness should not be squandered" The last sentence being primarily to both representatives. The appearance of Minister Nelyrien caused Elwar to turn and bow in respect.
"You flatter me Minister, this was not my idea but the Dreamers, I merely offered to host is all. I am sure your people have much to discuss indeed, you are like me in age, I am eager to listen to what you wish to bring forward"
While the dreamer engaged the Annolodian party, returning the bridge crew to the diplomatic team, the Dreamers many miniscule eyes kept tabs on each of the representatives , utilising small demoiorganic components of the walls to corroborate the data. The Previous meetings at the CORE had nearly ended in a bloodbath, so the dreamer had a healthy caution with so many different prominent, powerful nations present.
She felt a pull as though gravity were compressed as Nyriel-L’Eral approached, as though the living spatial distortion was preceded by a warm, compressed shadow, obscuring and obfuscating it true shape. As she was talking with the Annolidians, The Dreamer wretched from herself, all f the red of her body bleeding and flowing off into a nearly identical body as her newest form. A pearlescent statue-esque figure remained with the Annolidians, while a bright red, more exotic appearance of the being inverted, and was formed in time to meet face to… front.
“This is a joyous occasion. To be in the presence of a being f such heightened evolution is to be in ecstasy. The Singers are an enigma we have always observed from distance. To be face to face now is most excellent”
The Crimson avatar of the Dreamer observed the multi-planar space with all manner of internally grown organs, radiation and gravimetric sensors. She was extremely infatuated with the otherworldly being.
She glanced at the food stuffs spaghettifying within the twisting planar manifolds, being broken into infinitesimal strings but never really broken apart. “It would appear that these food are dissatisfying to you. We will serve our course next for your benefit. It includes some more exotic dishes, such a gravimetrically induced cheese produced by a form of infant meta-fauna at the edges of the golden expanse. I’m sure you will find a thing of that nature more stimulating. Of course it is all designed with them all in mind, to be harmless to their biologies I can provide an.. unpasteurized dish that will be more fulfilling to your nature.
"Your invitation is most generous," D'Arcy answered Elwar. "Do not hesistate to call upon the Commonwealth in any capacity in the recovery effort. I will convey your invitation to my superiors and I'm sure it will be discussed in depth in the coming days,"
She kept her address short, seeing as the conversation seemed to be moving on with the arrival of Minister Nelyrien.
"We haven't had much to do with the DIrge, outside of helping the Vestahl Commonwealth with its civil war some years back under the UDS colonial government." Hazel said taking another sip of her drink.
"We're hoping this will be a good opportunity to open up more diplomatic avenues with the attendees." Vance remarked
The exchange between the Vestahl and Elwar thankfully was without the expected heated exchange that seemed all too common in the galaxy. “Indeed, I do not believe it is in any nation’s best interest to be unprepared for another such incursion. If history is any indicator we will have another such threat certainly” Sulimarne responded politely to Elwar’s statement about unity. The fact was that responsible nations couldn’t really afford to not work in unison. But of course there were a few things to handle while the opportunity was available. “While I don’t want to darken this fine event with a tactical concern, was it ever determined why the Shadows seemed so interested in our galaxy? As far as high command knows, no communication was successful, and if we can determine intent we might be able to ascertain when and where they might return.” This question was generalized though Sulimarne figured that Elwar might be able to answer it, if not then one of the other representatives.
"The honour is mine D'Arcy I will not hesitate to do so, this activity by rogues and pirates is one we are all affected by I will likely ask for help in time" He bowed. Turning his head slightly to Sulimarne.
"Without a doubt representative you speak the truth. This is a prosperous and active galaxy it is only a matter of time before a nation or force of overwhelming power comes here and attempts to force its claim. It has happened before and it will happen again. It is true the Shadows had no communication with us there was several theories, given information I was able to glean on the Ancnet as well as data sharing with nations such as the Union this was not the first time they had even tried to enter in modern history. An event known as Natza Kartania also heralded an incursion although it was stopped at a small stage. Whatever the Shadows want they clearly are able to access this universe easier than most. Perhaps dimensional alignment allows them to punch through only a tiny barrier between us and their original home. While that doesn't answer what they want, I think it gives us a good indication that it is certain they shall try again. Perhaps you have more theories?" Elwar turned to Nelyrien wondering if the Singers had more possible ideas of what the Shadows motives were.
Taox smiled behind the helm; the metallic casing hissed as he took another sip of his beverage, looking over at the Dreamer as the party continued around them. Such a sight to behold, this gathering of nations. His predecessor, Zenith Frey, had once been a part of many a gathering such as this, though none as successfully peaceful.
He turned back to the ACR and Pordish delegate,
"As I am sure many others seek similar goals, I shall not lay claim to any more of your precious time. Consider your presence here an invitation to reach out to the U.E.E. once this whole matter has concluded. Perhaps our nations could benefit from some mutual cooperation, yes?"
The echo gave a curt salute, folding a fist over his chest before performing a small bow.
"Until then, Vor'ek."
The Pords nod back to their Echotian counterpart. We will, Kalglok tells him, we most certainly will
Ulatüt smiles and makes a note of Kalglok's promise; he will need to follow up on it in due time. For now, though, the food is good and there are plenty of others to mingle with. Kalglok takes the lead and slides over closer to Elwar and D'Arcy; Ulatüt follows.
If I may, I couldn't help but overhear your theories about the Shadows, he says to Elwar, having only really caught the tail end of the conversation, they do seem to be a rather primordial force. Not too dissimilar to other agents of entropy. Slaves to little more than the most primal paradigms of reality. Ancerious is prosperous and hasn't fallen to the forces of chaos that reign elsewhere; perhaps that attracts them, he concludes after a moment. It wouldn't surprise me if they do come again for this very reason.
He finishes what remains of his small portion while ruminating on the matter. The Shadows had piqued the interests of many Pords of the Council, and those within the ranks of the VRZ sought to investigate the matter further once the gravity of the situation had been made clear. Dimensional threats are always worth keeping an eye on. Ulatüt says nothing, but takes a long drink from his glass, then busies himself with tracking down a refill.
Sulimarne processed what was added by the interjection of the Pord’s commentary into the existing conversation. Of course each species Sulimarne met was different and even the similar ones had differing cultural expectations. It was also within the nature of the meeting that representatives would drift about. Even so, Sulimarne did have to wonder if that was normal for the Pord’s species or if it was a personal trait. Truthfully little was known about the Pords by the Dominion other than the first encounter and the final battle to stop the expansion of the Shadows. Opting to not ponder it further Sulimarne did offer some additional insight from the Dominion side of things. “I do not have any doubt we will have to fight them again; our calculations are such that the probability of this occurring will be highest if within the next century or so.” Sulimarne seemed to be listening to something heard at a distance for just a few moments before continuing. In truth this was Sulimarne communicating with another Sihiteri in the Dominion contingent. Through that brief and encrypted communication Sulimarne gained a copy of the results of the after-action reports in question. “There is one detail that the Dominion was able to glean from our analysts poring over hundreds of hours of sensor logs. The Shadows were acting in a concentrated manner not unlike a super-organism, which might suggest their true danger isn’t in the individual but whom or what is pulling the strings of the masses. Whatever that is, may not like our very existence...our free will” Sulimarne trained off letting the implications of its statements do all the suggesting. The reality was that like many others the Dominion wasn’t all that much closer to figuring out what precisely the shadows are, however the estimation of how they act and react was another matter.
”Perhaps it is a question of primordial force. Other than Natza Kartania in modern history I have found references from several ancient folklore, writings and data caches which have indicated a possible 4 more incursions in times before the modern era. None of these are confirmed however but descriptions and mentions share a high percentage match. I do agree, that it is almost guaranteed for another one of their attempts to happen within the next century Sulimarne. If they are some kind of force inherent to entropy or destruction beyond our current understanding then it may be in our best interest next time to study them as much as we can. And study their source.” Elwar agreed as he conversed, noting the Pordish representative Kalgloks comment.
”Either way we must be ready for them, or whatever other threat poses significant risk to the galaxy” Elwar then looked up slightly and smiled ”On a more lighter note, it is time for the next course my friends”
As soon as those words exited Elwar's synthetic through, the walls opened into a flurry of activity. An areal ballet between the two hive-minds, as though the representations of Elwar and the Dreamer intertwined as the swarms of precise mechanical geometry , and abstracted, toroidal bio-mechanical intermingled. Crimson and marble both side-eyed Elwar as the display took place, what was to follow was the main course, as prepared by the Annolidians. A small action for certain, one that Elwar was sure to pick up on.
A majority of the Ceranol was been consumed, with as well stripped carcass lining the main table. To waste such a meal would insult the deep heritage of the Veshtal, so the Dirge instead repurposed the remaining beast to prepare for the Annolidian course. The meal was sliced thinly against the grain by mantis like creatures, paper thin, rolled into ornate savoury rose dishes, perfectly complementing the overwhelmingly bitter of the next meal, while bringing out the brilliant colours of the exotic sea-life.
Annolidian Course
The Annolidian flag was flown as the lift silently reached its apex. Drones above the guests provided a veritable aurora as to give the impression of walking on the ocean's floor. Aerosolised salt water was released into the room shortly after and the humidity slightly raised ,though the temperature was maintained to ensure comfort.
The Ceranol meat roses were soon flanked by brightly coloured Annol flowers. In place of traditional platewear , utensils and dishes were brought out on immense, edible kelp leaves. Soon after, waiters brought out an array of brightly coloured, frosted fruit drinks served vertically in prawn and lobster heads, the sweet fruit mixing with the sweet umami of the freshly butchered sealife.
The centrepiece took the form of five large pill-bugs of different Colour, each rolled and cracked along the side, the innards slowly marinated with seafood and native citruses to nature. Each pill-bug is labelled as a different species, as well as a small historical note of the dish.
Karrokuri Hige Three small Karrokuri beetles, adolecnet and yet to develop their bitter taste. They are slow stewed with jellyfish pulp, fried Spindlereed and various small sweet berries and fruits
Karrokuri Nagoya A huge bright purple Karrokuri that is fed exclusively for ceremonial purposes. It's movement is restricted while it is fed extremely rich, fatty seafood such as lobster to cause it to grow. Its organs develop delicious fat deposits that slough off the organs when stewing, producing a sweet, savoury rich stew. It is custom to scrape the meat from the interior of the Shell
Karrokuri Gakte *The abdomen of half a Dozen beetles, with the Roe in tact along the underside of each belly, along with meat stripped from each leg, giving the impression of the grape size beetle roe resting in a nest. Each abdomens been sourced from a separate subspecies of beetle, each a bright colour, with a different uniquely pleasant flavour when popped in the mouth.
Karrokuri Aka The abdomen and meaty parts have been separated and independently fried. Brine has been used to deglaze the pan to produce a rich ,salty stock to drizzle the meat or dip breads in.
Karrokuri Soku *A full hundred tiny red beetledupburned and served in a style similat to stuffed mushroom caps. The shells of these beetles are stuffed with magma snail sloime reductions, small hotpeppers and capcaiscan possesing coral species.
Beside the spiced food is 200 small protions favours yogurt*
The chefs permit Elwars drones to serve the dish, unwilling to allow the Dirge to 'contaminante' the dish, and stood lining the outer walls facign in, eagerly awaiting the response at the brilliant dish.
Marble began to appraoch elwar, slipping through the Crowd while the drones delivered the meals, and distributed dishes.
Elwars constructs performed their part in the ballet like clockwork, with the biological aspects of the Dirge allowing them to perform their own intricate movements Elwars constructs followed. Each of the small floating spheres, objects which had proved to be almost frighteningly powerful at anti-tank duties during the two events on Askandar, now floated around in a way that was reminiscent of rhythms from Annolidian music, each one carrying platters and plates of the meals as they placed them on the tables or handed them to guests.
Elwar himself selected the different meals, consuming some Karrokuri Gakte and showing subtle changes in his form as he processed the taste, texture and appearance. Almost instantly he turned to Marble that approached him, another extension of the Dreamer.
”Everything is going according to plan so far, our efforts have proven most fruitful and the guests seem extremely pleased. This was an excellent idea friend” He spoke.
Neither of the Pords hesitate in grabbing portions of the new selections brought out. So far, the food has been exquisite, and the Annolidian dishes only continue this trend. Ulatüt in particular finds himself drawn to the salty Karrokuri Aka (a nice complement to his refilled beverage), while Kalglok savors the complex and rich flavours of his portion of Karrokuri Nagoya.
As Kalglok eats, however, he continues to consider Sulimarne's, and then Elwar's comment, even as the AI's drones go about their business of serving the most recent dish. Ancient folklore isn't always the best source of historical information, but often there are holdouts of what was found within the oceans of what wasn't. It might be worth investigating later. He turns to Ulatüt.
We should follow up on these ancient leads, he says. I have a feeling there's still a lot out there to be found.
Ulatüt nods with a swallow. Considering what we know already? I'll make a note of it.
Kalglok raises his brows in agreement. Turning towards Elwar, and the marble extension of the Dreamer, he shifts his thoughts to the present. This ambiance is magnificent, he says. It complements the dishes very well.
Now standing alone the pair looked at the dishes being brought out. They were amazed at the skill of the chefs with how distinct and vibrant each dish look. Although they had no idea what any of it was they were keen to try some, in the the spirit of the event. The pair decided to interact with the Rissallas next. They approached the Lieutenant-Colonel Sulimarne and offered a polite greeting.
"How are you enjoying the banquet, Lieutenant-Colonel Sulimarne?" Hazel asked politely
As the last words were exchanged Sulimarne glanced towards what was being brought out currently, and at least from a visual perspective it was quite impressive. The new dish ware, and the slight change in environment was noted as was the quite delightful interplay of color and textures and their supporting features. The way in which varied species represented their foods as part of their cultural customs had been a fascinating thing to study for Sulimarne simply for the purpose of understanding how, these organic life forms created energy. It was all nuanced, interlaced with pleasure and biological function that was produced from countless millennia of evolution and then with social evolution stacked on top of it. There was a time which Sulimarne remembered quite fondly when it did not understand the function of eating at all, it wasn’t then and still isn’t something the Sihitieri did. This was what the neural cradle around Sulimarne’s neck was for, it roughly translated the tasting and texture sensations of what a few assistants ate so Sulimarne might have some sort of idea of the experience. Noting the steam coming off some dishes while others were served cold highlighted another dimension to this experience the variance in temperatures which altered texture and flavor. Of course then came the cultural issues, as the assistants chosen gracefully avoided things that looked more insect-like while not being bothered by sea creatures that had a visual similarity to that which was familiar. Sulimarne didn’t get much time to consider what was going on before the two representatives from the ACR approached. “Ah, Mrs. Kelly, I was hoping to speak with you at some point during this event. Some of these foods that are being offered are quite intriguing. Just seeing the differences in culinary pursuits has been quite the learning experience. Though I trust that you and Mr. Cole are both enjoying this momentous occasion also?”
”Ah thank you representative Kalgok. Truly this was all the Dreamers plans, I merely assisted in them becoming reality. We can only hope that the camaraderie and friendship displayed here today will endure and help proceedings across the galactic west in the years to come” Elwar replied taking a taste of the Karrokuri Gakte and experiencing the taste with a colourful display of emotion across the beings face.
”I wonder if such measures could be implemented or held elsewhere in the galaxy to help diplomatic processes. Perhaps the last war could have been avoided with such”
Kalglok nods thoughtfully. Though seemingly asked without need for a solid answer, after a moment, he nevertheless replies to Elwar: Certainly, he agrees, and there are many regions that might benefit from such gatherings.
He goes back to eating the food and savouring the delicious flavours and textures as his companion, Ulatüt does the same.
Hazel was glad to hear that the Dominion delegate wanted to talk to them, little gestures like these could mean a lot in the way of a long harmonious friendship. She observed Sulimarne for a moment before responding.
"Yes, we're having an excellent time. The food is great and the company is just as good. Its a good place to be among friends with." Hazel said excitedly.
"So what we're you hoping to speak to us about this evening?" Vance queried Sulimarne politely.
“The company certainly is quite delightful, but we all know why we are really here.” Sulimarne gestured moving his hand in a polite circular gesture as if indicating that the food and drink were more for the purpose of getting the delegates moving towards discussions of things far more heavy than basic pleasantries. “I think a good place to start in this case is a discussion of the potential for a modest trade arrangement with your nation directly. We’re looking for certain refined materials and there is a…willingness to trade in kind over say, the next decade at least. It would be the foundation for future arrangements of course, the kind of thing that looks good in the press, and helps all involved.” Sulimarne let the implications land as they may, after all from what it had read about the ACR they seemed to prefer a direct approach.“As I also understand it, the UNA has embarked on a joint mission to handle the alliance’s best interests in trade. We are interested in assisting the alliance in its endeavors; we’ve just been hamstrung by the loss of communications to high command and the fallout from the battle with the shadows.” Sulimarne paused to let the implications swirl, since when did the Dominion ever loose contact with its own? Leaving nothing to mystery Sulimarine continued and in the process filled in the missing details.
“Well, we had exceptional difficulties getting word of anything to high command due to interfering phenomena in the strand. After a certain officer’s ‘methods’ to get forces to the shadow battle High command needs now to approve deployments before anything is shifted unless there is a imminent attack so, I think you see what the issue was.” With a gesture a small map of space between the Sarayan territories and the large amount of distance to the western galactic fringe appeared as a hologram. The image didn’t give away much in terms of tactical data but did reveal that relay stations, quite a few of them had to be placed in secured areas in a curved arc heading west. “The communications break was so bad that we had to send actual courier ships to move critical information, materials and personnel in an expedited fashion for a few weeks at least. That mess was fixed most recently; we build a set of relays just to resolve the issue. That said the offer stands and we are hoping the UNA will utilize it when the time comes.”
"We're glad to hear that these problems are on the mend, if they become too much don't be afraid to reach out to us or the UNA for assistance. We're all neighbours and friends after all." Hazel replied politely taking a sip of her champagne
"As for the matters of trade you brought up that can be settled here and now as we have an open borders policy for anyone and everyone, bar a few who will get stopped at the borders. As for the matter of the UNA i can't help with that directly, you'd have to mention it to your delegates and go through their channels. I don't think anyone from there was in attendance tonight though which is unfortunate." Hazel added
And so, the feast went on, each round being just as ingenious and unique as the last with the drones of Elwar helping to provide the guests with each of the representative nation meals. While the Dreamer continued to use its extensions to prepare the vast array of courses and food the diplomacy went on, the banquet stretching for at the time of its ending almost half a day. Trade was solidified, matters mused on and diplomatic agreements affirmed as all of those who attended intermingled and partake in the endless food that seemingly never ran out. For Elwar of course it was a new experience, the AI was on the cusp of becoming something new with the almost completion of the Athenaeum and having created a new body just to taste and smell the sheer processing at Askandars core over something so fundamental had almost taxed his central core to its limit.
As the proceedings came to a close and the first dignitaries and groups began to take their leave it was swiftly followed by parting speeches and talk of thanks to both Elwar and the Dreamer. The banquet had been a stunning success and both rather socially unknowing entities had tasted proper interaction for the first time. It had been a massive experience and one both would process for some time. Still the goal had been achieved.
With drones of both the Dirge and Elwar rapidly moving to clean and pack up everything laid out the avatar of the machine AI stood by the banquet table one last time. As Dirge forms ravenously consumed everything that was left and Elwars drones stripped the warehouse down and rebuilt it clean and new around him Elwar picked at the remains of a Free Worlds dish, once again eating a small bite before the dish disappeared into a storm of mouths and arms.
He savoured the moment, and a small feeling in him knew that, come the ascension he may not truly appreciate such in the same way again.
It was clear that the damage from the previous Shadows invasion had been all repaired for some time. Especially given that the regions surrounding Askan were luscious green, covered with forests and plains as far as the eye could see dotted with crystal clear lakes and more. The terraforming project was going extremely well and it was the perfect time to show this off with the coming banquet.
The Dirge contingent had arrived on Askandar only three days earlier and had been given a yet to be used industrial warehouse area by the mayor of Askan overseen by Elwar himself and it had become rapidly converted into a large food store and processing facility. Many citizens had come to watch the Dirge at work, given that the news of the event had spread far and wide the banquet wasn’t just a diplomatic meeting it was being held in the capital in the streets for everyone with Dirge and Elwar constructs catering. Parties and celebrations were being held early to mark the rebuilding of Askandar and all throughout work and duties were being put on hold or taken over by constructs for the events. The atmosphere was palpable and Elwar observed it from every angle through his constructs at all levels including his own avatar which walked among the people. He was happy that such an event could help those further and this was a perfect way to celebrate their victory a couple of years earlier.
It was almost time for the event however, the huge orbital spire in the centre of Askan had been chosen to host the event, near the top a suite had been opened up to allow for the guests to mingle and discuss while courses from each attending nation would be brought in a series of rounds. Elwar hoped this relaxed atmosphere would help harbour more casual relations with the members present, after all both UNA and Askandar defenders had been invited along with others on good relations with both him and the Dirge. In time Elwar hoped such an event would benefit the region and help drive out any bad blood between nations. After all, the Shadows were vanquished and the threat of AURA was all but gone.
Now was to await the arrivals.
The Pords
Unlike many of the other UNA members and polities of the Frontier, the various Pordish domains nearly missed the Shadow conflict in its entirety. The arrival of the Alabaster Kingdom came just shy of the awesome conclusion of the Shadow's removal from this reality - a conclusion that many within the Colonial Council and VRZ knew would be unwise to overlook. Thus given the very nature of the situation (a series of events that, ostensibly, were on Hol nam-Pelchaaq's doorstep) Pordish participation in the final battle was assured.
And so in the wake of the Battle off Zaingraf, maintaining an eye out for similar threats was deemed to be a matter of great importance, an opinion that guided the Council's subsequent decision to join the United Nations of the Avarian, among other - lesser - reasons. It was then once within this organization that the High Hunters found themselves met with ample opportunity to reach out to and work with the celestial neighbours of the Alabaster Kingdom; one such opportunity that presented itself was that of a great feast, held within the beating heart of Elwar's dominion: Askandar.
High Hunter Balyt Kalglok wasted no time in tending to the invitation to gather on Askandar. Upon hearing of the intention to serve dishes from around the galaxy, he established a team to work with the Dirge and Elwar to ensure that only the best Pordish dishes would be served, and he was confident that his selections would give an appropriate glimpse into Pordish culture. When the time came for him to depart to the world in question, he did so with high spirits, joined only by his aide and a few essential lower administrative members of the Colonial Council.
A single diplomatic cruiser arrived in orbit and was ushered to a berth. High Hunter Kalglok, clad in the azure robes of the Hunters, made his way to the surface accompanied by his aide, Ulatüt. The two slowly headed to the banquet hall while chatting idly to one another about the sights of the world. Lush greenery and rolling plains, it seemed, had friends here - an enjoyable change in pace from the realities set forth by myriad other star-states across the void - an unfortunate state of affairs advanced by those all too eager to maintain it. Yet still, when they finally entered the banquet hall, they turned their attention to the other parties present, and began to review faces to see if any familiar or interesting ones were about.
It had been weeks since the two meetings that formed the PGL and UNA, and just a few months after the battle with the shadows. Back home the election was turning ugly as recent events were being politicized in the current election for the new head of state. Despite the backing of the current Pirsakin, Nyarai Oni Jang, the opposition was polling better and the elections were just a short month away. This of course was one of many causes for concern for the now effectively exiled forces that rallied under the then Commodore-Emeritus Taravis to fight at the final battle with the shadows. The few ships yards left in the sliver of space controlled by the Dominion in the former Davian Territories (Now called Saraya) were overburdened with mauled vessels that came back from the conflict months ago. Mactan Base was slowly making its way to the territory under heavy escort which stretched Taravis’s forces thin. Complicating matters was the difficulty moving a starbase of that size; it took weeks at best speed. Thankfully there were the disparate individual commands trickling in to join the growing fleet of dispossessed former Risallan naval assets, a minor blessing.
This was not a great time for the now-nationless forces under Commodore-Emeritus Taravis, however in this fog of politics, migration, reconstruction and repercussions, the invitation arrived. At first it was an impossibility to attend as an open cultural exchange event would be a noticeably sore topic. It was Captain Olouchi, Taravis’s third in command who changed all that when he said; “The galaxy at large doesn’t need to know anything is wrong, that mess at home will settle itself either in one month or ten years. Either way, keeping up appearances will be for the best politically and strategically.” At first neither Commodore-Emeritus Taravis or Commodore Urajak wanted to admit Olouchi was right, but he was. It was crucial to maintain morale and this was a means to do it that cost very little to achieve. It would take just shy of a week to work the kinks out of the operation, it was decided that it would be wise to make a splash.(edited)
Commodore-Emeritus Taravis decided that it would draw more attention, and increase morale more if he sent one of the new Kuvuanimifu-kiru vessels on the diplomatic mission under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel Sulimarne. This was a decision that grasped the politics of the moment, the ship and its line was unknown outside of the Dominion so it would draw attention. Since it was the newest warship made by the Dominion and the few that were active duty or nearly so sided with Taravis, putting one front and center would definitely bode well politically. That single vessel would be sent, with the diplomatic livery of Kilkenny green painted visibly across the major facings. In the spots where the Risallas Dominion’s insignia might have gone the PGL’s logo was placed, and secondarily a black and white outline of the Sarayan territory with each major star marked in silver. IFF codes would be the standard ones for a PGL warship, but aside from the alterations for a diplomatic mission the IFF would not give data on what classification the ship was or any detailed data.
The RAS -Elẹtàn arrived in high orbit with utmost punctuality, somehow Lieutenant-Colonel Sulimarne predicted the additional inquires due to the vessels lack of known insignia and accounted for slowed progress and stoppages. As a matter of procedure the ship did not dock it instead remained on standby and utilized shuttles to move the needed personnel, materials and equipment over for the event. As some might find out, the Lt-Colonel was methodical about overseeing preparation of the Itanyii’s part of this event, their group had arrived on time to handle preparations and was set up and ready before the big event was to begin. This left the Lt-Colonel time to get to the Banquet hall and perhaps if lucky meet with some delegates before the distraction of food was a concern.
Askandar System
15 AU from Planet Askandar
A roiling black cloud appeared at the Askandar system. Like smoke from an unseen fire, it seemed to arise out of the very fabric of space, issuing from the continuum and spreading into a cloud a hundred kilometers in diameter. a blaze of red quark-gluon plasma raged within the darkness, causing the individual motes of blackness to reflect red light in flowing, flickering patterns. From the depths of the cloud a voice came forth, resonating space and communicating directly with Elwar.
*Greetings Elwar, I am Nyriel-L'Eral and I represent the Anais Unity, we have come in answer to the dinner invitation. * A ship emerged from the eerily glowing black cloud-one of the Ministry of State's diplomatic cruisers. The ship closed the distance to Askandar quickly, slowing as it approached the world. It was hard to tell that Askandar had recently been ravaged by the Shadows of Zaingraf, Following Elwar's instructions the cruiser entered orbit and a shuttle emerged. Once it landed the occupants emerged and made their way to where the guests were gathering,
Leading the group was Sector Minister Nelyrien, ranking member of the Ministry of State the Unity had in Ancerious. He wore a traditional Naacal robe, and nodded to the other guests as he entered. He looked towards Elwar as well as the Pordish and Risallas delegates. "Greetings to you all on behalf of the Anais Unity. A magnificent job on the environmental repairs I much say Elwar. But I look forward to this, not just as a diplomat, but as an individual."(edited)
Next were two other humanoids. An amber skinned man almost 6 feet in height, with white hair and a sharp set of facial features, Light seemed to reflect in tiny spots all over his skin, as if he had a crystalline veneer to his skin, He wore a black formal suit, and bowed to Elwar. "Greeting on behalf of the Lenari people Elwar. I am Nesharra, assistant to the Planetary Administrator of New Lenara. I am honored to be present here." Accompanying him was a human appearing woman in a long satin gown, a necklace of gold and crystal around her neck. Her brown hair flowed halfway down her back. "Salutations to all. I am Liena, Priest of the Anais Twins and representative of the Chimeran peoples. I am truly glad to have the opportunity to get to know you all better.
The next individual was nowhere near humanoid. A hexapedal form, with a golden colored pelt, his head looked akin to an odd mix of feline and almost Nucleanoid features. He wore a series of harnesses carrying various items of equipment, and a pistol of some sort. He smiled, revealing a mouthful of very sharp teeth, and then bend upward behind the forelegs, appearing centauroid in form. Moving one of his forelegs, which seemed to be partly metal and crystal- to his chest in salute, he said with a growling tone. Field Commander Enasse, Lynassa's Claw Lift Infantry Division. I am responsible for the security of our delegation." Licking his lips he added "Looking forward to sampling the meats as well." with a toothy smile.
The next member of the delegation was humanoid-but by no means related to humans. Appearing as a semi hunched over Lupine looking creature, he wore a kind of equipment similar to Enasse's, over what appeared to be a kind of suit, though oddly cut to accommodate his tail. "Hello. This is my first semi-formal affair outside of our own territory since the Shadow War, My name's Aufsghenzr. I represent the Vita Shetani, latest... well, next to latest of the Anais Unity's member species. I concur with my Kalizwah associate here...Where's the meat?"
The last to enter the room was by far the oddest. Standing a notably larger distance from the other delegates. a spinning series of 6 flat, tilted planes of distorted space surrounded what appeared to be an obsidian statue of a male with the typical androgynous Mu characteristics. Though appearing to be made of crystal or mineral, the being moved with a fluid grace. Red flame seemed to flare in and out of existence inside him, and a blazing corona of red quark-gluon plasma danced around his form, Additional red light seemed to flicker inside his hair-fine filaments of the same odd material he was made of. lighting the hair like a fiber optic lamp. His voice seemed to sing in the air. "I bring greetings to you all, I am Nyriel-L'Eral, I speak for the Anyth. Please do not try and get past my phase barriers. They are their for your protection as the touch of my form is quite...lethal. He seemed to stop for a second, then looked towards the Dreamer. Greetings. he resonated.
“I’m beginning to suspect you don’t like your hair Ms. O’Shea,” Gordon Hall commented, watching as the stylist working on her hair undid her bun and shook out her red locks before beginning again, opting for a different style entirely.
“I don’t,” She snapped. “It was easy in the army. I could rock the ‘hacked off with a combat knife’ look, but I’ve been told that doesn’t fly with diplomats,”
“Perhaps you should hire a stylist?” The SIS agent suggested, crossing one leg over the other.
“Perhaps you should mind your own fucking business!” The red head snapped.
“Touchy today are we?”
She sighed and let go of the braid, letting her hair fall out once more while she rubbed her eyes.
“Sorry,” She apologized at last. “I’m just not good at this,”
“Diplomacy? Your recent promotion to Ambassador to the PGL…”
“No, no,” She said. “Parties. I don’t do these high society parties. You know, dinners and galas and shit. I’m more the type to get wasted at a dive and then start a fight in an alley,”
“Classy,”
She raised a single finger in response, not bothering to look in Gordon’s direction. Then, for the umpteenth time, she shook her head and the stylist began working on her hair again. Gordon held back a chuckle and turned his wrist, glancing down at the time.
“This one will have to do,” He said, uncrossing his legs and leaning back in his chair. “We’ll be late if you change your mind again,”
“Alright, alright,” She mumbled, fingers weaving through her hair and then finally tying off the braid. “There, how do I look?”
She turned toward him and he stood from his chair, walking over he straightened her jacket, made small adjustment to her dress, and finally pronounced that she was fit to be seen in public. Her appearance finally deemed satisfactory, the pair left together, taking a short walk across the embassy ground to the car waiting to take them to the dinner itself.
“The food was sent?” D’Arcy asked.
“Yes,” Gordon answered.
“You made sure everything was top grade?”
“I did,”
“You tasted to make sure they didn’t fuck it up?”
“Good lord Ms. O’Shea,” He said with a chuckle. “Everything is in order. If you stress over every detail of every social engagement you are asked to attend then you will worry yourself into an early grave,”
She didn’t answer, taking the hint and deciding to stew on her anxieties in silence as Askandar’s landscape flashed by as the made their way toward the central spire and the banquet awaiting them there.
“Do try to at least seem to be enjoying yourself,” Gordon commented, casting a sideways glance at his charge before returning his gaze to his tablet. “Have you seen this?”
He turned the tablet, showing a recently published news article detailing the arrival of the Dominion’s delegation. D’Arcy cursed softly under her breath.
“Should I have made a bigger entrance?”
“There’s something to be said for modesty,”
“That wasn’t an answer,”
“It was not meant to be,”
Further conversation was cut short as their driver announced their arrival. Together, the pair stepped out of the vehicle, and D’Arcy dutifully took her compatriot’s arm as the two made their way to the banquet hall.
“Don’t forget to smile,” Gordon commented, moments before they entered. To her credit, the diplomat had always been good at faking her emotions. An easy smile came to her features and she walked into the banquet hall.
As was common amongst the men and women of the diplomatic corp, both were dressed modestly. There were no opulent jewels on display, nor luxurious fabrics incorporated into their clothing, but nonetheless they had arrived in formal wear. D’Arcy wore an emerald colored dress that accented her red hair nicely, while Gordon wore a three piece suit adhering to all the latest fashion trends of the Capital.
Together, the pair made a round of the banquet hall, greeting and being greeted in turn before they finally came to a stop near Sulimarne. Even in social settings, it seemed the once warrior was more comfortable in proximity to allies.
Upon the edge of the system came the slightest blip of a lone Annoliddan ship, slightly smaller than a cruiser, and promptly came into orbit over Askandar. Its IFF and other markers matched Inquisition, but the profile was noticeably different than others: no external weapons, limited scanners, and design giving a more fluid, organic appearance. Two shuttles descended, the first larger heading straight to the Dirge food processing area. A dozen cybernetically equipped annoliddans departed, setting to work unloading their myriad of cooking equipment and ingredients at their designated stations in the district with flair, making a show of their utensil-tipped hands and striking a rhythmic tune with their instruments for the passerby and citizens on the streets.
The second smaller shuttle landed at the designated spot for dignitaries and attendees of the event. Four figures departed and made way to the inner city, continuing by foot once within an appreciable distance. With a toothy grin and upbeat stride, artisan Maero led the small group, gibbering excitedly of the reformations and terraforming that had been occurring since the last time the inquisitor behind him had been on-world.
"Ha! I'm only glad these lil' buggers aren't trying to flay me this time." Inquisitor Grodan chimed in quietly. He did not want to undo the cheery atmosphere by reminding passerby that these constructs were once the planet's number one threat. His form drew enough attention as it was, standing head and shoulders above his fellow annoliddans and being quite brawny despite the lack of gear or armor. He and Maero wore matching outfits only differing in size; The Inquisition garb consisted of a sleeveless white jacket cut off at the abdomen and topped by a crimson sash wrapped over the waist and right shoulder and baggy pants adorned with wavy lines of silver. The two following behind them wore less modest outfits, the man wearing a red five-piece suit lined in literal silver trimming and the woman a matching red jacket over an iridescently shining dress, her one eye lined ornamentally with piercings. Both had a distant look on their faces, telepathically bickering like the married couple they were, yet smiled and waved as they made way into the banquet hall.
Grodan introduced the others, placing a cybernetic had across his chest as he bowed to Elwar.
“It is a pleasure to finally meet you!” Maero exclaimed to Elwar. “These two are Michkelan and Darsinia, CEOs of trading companies handling the resource management for my efforts here, among others,” He said, motioning to the man and woman, respectively.
Hazel Kelly sat in a conference room filled with some of the best Xenopologists the Republic could hire in the short time frame. Each one had a different species to focus on and were to provide a brief yet informative guide on how to deal with the various species attending the banquet. This was all at Hazel's request as Secretary of State, which she was beginning to regret as her older brain was not as good at learning as her younger brain would of been a scant few decades ago. She was a native Marnish, born and raised on the planet in the endless cityscape that encompassed the planet. This was the final briefing she had with her experts and the last chance to iron out any details she and her Vice-Secretary Vance Cole had. She sat there in her formal party attire, a dark blue dress that hung from the shoulders and came down to her ankles, it had minimal extras and 'frilly bits' but the seams of the dress were done with a gold trim. Vance was also a Marn and the same porcelain white skin as Hazel. He wore a black suit with a dark blue bow tie and like Hazel a pin on his left press that had the Republic flag with its dark blue background with the Ancerious Galaxy in the middle. The briefing had finished no sooner then they ship was set to leave Republic Space. The Xenopologists were shuffled out and taken off the diplomatic ship that was en route to Askander.
-
The ship made an ordinary entrance in the system just beyond Askanders planetary Interdiction and it began a smooth cruise through space towards the docking station. The two secretaries mewled about the conference room going over their notes for the event as well as publicised guest lists. They had spent the time from when the invitation was sent to their arrival, learning about the attendants, their nations, their species and their cultures to make the best impression possible. It wasn't long until they were docked and left the confines of the ship and made their way to gathering.
"Good luck Vance, don't try to offend anyone." Hazel said curtly to her underling
"Like wise madam secretary, don't get us into a war over a miscommunication." Vance replied similarly
When they arrived they had their first target in sight, Elwar. They would move to greet the AI and offer their respects for hosting the event as well as the help he gave in founding the United Nations of the Avarian. They stood a respectful distance away from his avatar however once they saw that the Annolidans had already beaten them.
The past three days had been interesting to say the least. The Dreamer and Taox talked at length about a multitude of topics, ranging from galactic politics, to simple personal questions. The dreamer took particular interest in the possibility of reviving old joint projects between the wayside following leadership changes within the U.E.E. The platform was in constant flux, providing a number of emulated locale's to fit the conversation, as well as providing for the Echotian parties needs. All the while the blue pearl hanging far in the distance took shape, and green had begun to spread across the various land masses.
In a moment of silence between both groups, the walls of the Cavernous space expanded, numerous gaps formed along the walls, and a flurry of countless biological shapes rushed in a constant torrent, quickly taking roost within the cavernous space, or travelling further into the ringworld through the various passages. As silence quickly fell once more, the Dreamer turned to Taox, her nomad fleets now residing within her,
“It would seem that this conversation must come to a draw. The first of the diplomats are soon to arrive. If it's acceptable, i intend to make a grand entrance.”
The dreamer gave a quick smirk towards Taox
Taox nodded, understanding the queue for his preparation. "I will see to it that preparations are taken; I would not want to arrive unprepared and stain your image. This conversation has been quite a pleasure, I do hope we can continue to develop these proposals at a later date?"
"Take your time, we believe a late entrance will punctuate our arrival best. We will wait, as you will be unable to act during transit. Is there anything you require of me in regards to your preparations?" As the dreamer finished her query, her immense form began to split down the center, beginning at her finger tips, a number of limbs began to sprout off of the immense form, each a variation of inversion of the primary limb. The multiple forms of dreamer quickly integrated themselves into the walls of the ringworld, leaving the primary body, stark white and red, now only the size of the Corvette the echo's came in on. She curled herself around the platform as a new cavern began to emerge facing the interior walls of the ring works. The platform began to slowly shift beneath the Echotian's feet, and the part boarded their craft and made preparations to depart. As soon as they gave the all clear, a thin narrow band of light quickly shot through the cavernous space. Taox watched as the band swelled before becoming an inky black void that soon collapsed the entire ringworld into this immense 2-dimensional object, leaving behind the graveyard of a civilization.
Above the Matrioska brain three quarters of a the galaxy away, a band of white light appeared, roughly half a dozen AU in diameter. Thanks to the gravitational Mastery of the dirge along with the complex machinations of Elwar, they had settled on an exact location in which the ring could be properly 'unveiled' to the galaxy at large while allowing the dirge to nullify its impact on the orbital bodies below, putting the ringworlds destination firmly above the orbital plane, its interior overlapping with some of the outermost spires of Elwar's project.
The band ballooned and blossomed, in an instant the band tightened slightly before erupting at once revelign the Dreamer's body, an Immense ringworld 6Au in diameter with multiple spires ranging from half an AU to several light seconds in length, reaching both outwards and inwards. There would be a brief ripple of gravitational waves equal to many stellar masses before the various spires began to work on negating the Rings effect on the surrounding space. As the breakdown and reassembly of information was near instantaneous, it took a moment for Taox and his crew to realize they had moved at all. The platform his craft was resting upon had finished its alteration, the light in the Cavernous space had all but faded, leaving that single blue pearl in the distance as they departed
Toax was immediately informed of their updated position by enthusiastic deckhands aboard his corvette even as the macrys pinged them for arrival. His smile cut across his face as he excitedly prepared himself for departure, donning a white suit underneath a cerulean coat. His helm formed up around his head as he embarked into a personal vessel and made his way planetside.
---///--------
Without guards, and with the Dirge already having prepared the Echotian dishes he had provided, Toax was free to enter alone and unencumbered, basking in the atmosphere of the guests already present and greeting those whom he saw eyeing his arrival. It was a wonderful feeling, to walk among those whose forms did not resemble nightmarish leviathans, and he savored every moment.
Several stories below the gathering assembly was a flurry of activity. The 'kitchen' area was a series of sequestered spaces, providing each national group of chefs their own workstation to ensure complete control over the meals was seceded to their respective nations. The workspace itself was an expansive series of lifts, cooking implements and equipment culminating in a truly bizzare giger-esque picture. While Elwar handled the logistics of the operation, the Dirge opted to take a more direct involvement in the meal preparation itself, the room was built of mechanical scaffolding filled in with constantly shifting pearlescent walls that provided to the direct and immediate demands of the gathered workforces. Wit h her body being clearly within view, The Dreamer opted to make her 'grand entrance' Entering via lift flanked by one of Elwar's representations. Behind her stood the bridge crew of an annolllidian ship who had a previously presumed fatal encounter, dressed in finery. In this incarnation, she was only slightly larger than an average human, with 6 equally sized limbs, and a sleek marble skin tone. She held her arms open wide and projected her voice to the entire room, “My friends, welcome, we are pleased to have you, please enjoy yourselves, and the fruits of the labour of the many skilled people who have our gratitude.”
The first meal to be brought out was that of Veshtahl. It was a point of pride of Vestahl's chefs to source ingredients grown in their natural environment, and so quality was preferred over quantity so as to not disrupt the natural populations within the old growths. Rather, a number of regional chefs and teams had gathered to prepare their own exquisite dishes, and as the last of the guests had arrived the lift silently began shuttling the various wait staff into action. The meal was quickly rolled out, as the doors opened the room was immediately flooded with the scent of smoked and flame grilled meats, prepared with various tart and savoury marinates. The centrepiece of this course was wheeled out by several of Elwar's representations on a hover cart, a whole slow smoked Caranol. It was flanked by several smaller plates filled with thinly sliced meats and hearty breads for sopping up sauces, as well as a number roasted vegetables and legumes.
The arrival of the guests and the various greetings happened fairly fluidly and quickly. The arrival of the Pordish delegation first had Elwar bid greeting to them through traditional Pordish custom which Elwar had learned through several cultural texts which had been shared in goodwill between the two peoples rapidly following by Elwar bowing to the Rissalas representative Sulimarne and greeting him on behalf of both Askandar as a fellow member of the UNA. Next came the Anais Unity representatives each one so different and yet so intriguing to Elwar, who politely bowed to each in turn and gestured for them to enter, also pointing out the initial starter appetizers located in the centre of the room to those guests already hungry. Elwar was however most interested in Nyriel-L'Eral, such an exotic form which Elwars Avatar visible responded to respect to. The study that could come from such a being would be most impressive.
Next Elwar had greeted the representatives of the Vestahl, the moment courteous and brief as it seemed they wished for, Elwar wished to discuss future relations with Vestahl of course but at the start of such a grand venture it seemed hardly the time as yet more guests arrived. With the Annolidian delegation bowing again as Grodan made the introductions, it did not escape the QAI that the last time the representative had likely been here Elwar had been trying to kill him. How far they had all come in such a short time frame given the situations Elwar had originally found itself in.
Elwar was brought out of brief contemplation with the arrival of the ACR who came over to offer greetings once the customary welcome of the Annolidian’s had been conducted. Elwar welcoming the ACR just the same, as equal founders of the UNA Elwar had been very pleased to put forward this proposition, this banquet. The Dreamer had come with the idea, but Elwar had hoped that this event would heal many wounds and establish a foundation for many within the west, regardless if they were UNA members or not.
And besides the site of Elwars grand megaproject and the Dreamers huge Ringworld together were a sight to behold.
With the Dreamers official arrival and announcement and the now rolling out of Vestahlts signature dish Elwar felt it the right time and prudent to talk to D’Arcy and engage in conversation. The large avatar form that Elwar inhabited had actually been specially constructed for this event, looking identical to his other form this one had a capacity he had never had before. The capacity to eat, and taste, and he had never done so before in his existence. Gathering a selection of the grilled meats, tarts and a large segment of the Caranol on a planet Elwar made his way over to D’Arcy and also Sulimarne who were stood chatting.
“Good day representatives, I hope I am not interrupting anything, I would wish to start by again offering my welcome here. And thought that perhaps I could share my first ever taste of food with the representative of the fine people who created it” Elwar was genuine as he picked up one of the tarts and seemed to study it for a moment, before taking a bite and eating it. Instantly AI seemed to hesitate, purely for the sheer barrage of sudden new sensations it was experiencing.
”… This is how your biology’s take on more energy? I must have been missing something all these years” Elwar exclaimed, somewhat for a moment overwhelmed, but clearly having enjoyed the sensation.
D'Arcy smiled to Elwar as he approached, only barely managing to suppress a giggle as he enjoyed his first bites of food. She wondered what that must be like, tasting food for the first time... she doubted it was an experience she could relate to...
"You may not think you were missing anything if you'd ever spent a month broke and living on instant noodles," She said with a soft chuckle. "By the end of it I would have been quite content to never taste anything again,"
Thus far the venue was starting to fill with some interesting representatives and species some of which Sulimarne had only seen in digital representation. This was good, it meant many opportunities to speak with other species and perhaps negotiate agreements or lay the foundation for agreements. Sulimarne did not have long to take in the scene before the Vestahl delegation arrived and moved within casual conversation range. He acknowledged their presence with a polite nod and an offered handshake. It didn’t take much to notice that Sulimarne wasn’t Itanyi, the majority species of the Dominion, he looked the part but subtle things were not precisely accurate. “Ah, there you are, it is a delight to meet you and yours in person. Commodore-Emeritus Taravis has spoken quite well of you.” Sulimarne didn’t introduce himself by name because everyone present was listed on the attendance with images of the persons in question. “I think this outing should be the start of something…” Sulimarne didn’t quite get a chance to finish as Elwar arrived and tasted something for the first time. “Oh no, just pleasantries, I bid you a good day as well, I must apologize for not making it over to offer greetings sooner.” Sulimarne paused to glance at what one of the Dominion staff was taste-testing, some of the newly arrived foods while wearing a neural cradle device which in turn would allow Sulimarne to experience a limited version of what the staffer was experiencing in terms of culinary delights. “Yes it is the way most species experience it and that is what makes the universe quite impressive, the variety of means to encounter it.”
With so many present, Taox was alive with the diplomatic choices at his disposal, not unlike the meal before them, a buffet of potential conversations presented themselves.
His macrys lit up as he scanned the room, identifying two delegates who did not seem to be preoccupied by the chatter around them. Why not take a chance?
The Echotian approached the ones the Dreamer had named as guests from the ACR, a nation that had not met the U.E.E. according to his records.
"Salutations, Kelly'ra and Cole'vo. I am Taox'vos of the U.E.E., and I would like to extend this most gracious of greetings to yours truly. It is not often that coalitions such as these occur; how wonderous to have encountered you under such benevolent surcumstances?"
As the hall fills with individuals, Kalglok continues to scan the gathered for any who might be familiar with him. The first to catch his attention is Sector Minister Nelyrien, to whom he returns a short bow. It seems in the hustle and bustle, and the various other greetings he exchanges, that many have trickled in around Elwar.
And Kalglok, too, has arrived by the AI: his reaction to food for the first time prompts a smile from the Pord and his aide.
We might as well enjoy this food as well, he says to Ulatüt.
Ulatüt nods and is first to fill his plate with the food from Veshtahl. After a bite, he says,this meat is good, and then, after swallowing, I think you should try some.
I'll try this bread first, Kalglok replies. He shovels a piece into his mouth and slides on over to the ACR and Echotian representatives, and introduces himself with a bow: I do hope I am not intruding, he says. The High Hunter Council does send its regards to both of your people.
"It surely is quite... Elating, I will have to experience these noodles you speak of" Elwar smiled, slowly tucking into the collection of different foods placed upon the platter, each one giving a new burst of taste and experiences with which he was quite utterly fixated. He dedicated a vast amount of his processing power to these experiences, other regions on low priority construction and the like suffering temporary lag or inactivity as he wished to analyse everything about what he was tasting before he realised that he was in front of guests. The AI stopped and looked up.
"I apologise. It is rude of me to merely stand and consume food as I understand it in cultures. I wished to congratulate both of you on the formation of the PGL, I truly believe alliances bring stability and I hope that the UNA and PGL can work closely together in the future" Elwar bowed in respect before looking to D'Arcy "I hope that the Vestahl are also doing well these days, I feared your people had suffered something terrible when the final battle came and you did not show. I wont lie I missed your forces presence, you fought extremely well here in defence of my world. But triumph still came thankfully, and at least a few more lives were saved from potential losses. Is there anything I can do to assist the Commonwealth at this particular time?"
Hazel was surprised by the two representatives approaching them, she felt quite popular for a moment then remembered that she was representing one of the largest nations in the galaxy. The Echotian was a surprising one with the strange titles he added to the end of her names, but this was a good opportunity to open a channel to another powerful nation in the galactic east where Republic holdings were far and few between. The Pord approaching them was a welcomed sight of a soon to be very steadfast ally of the Republic with Morrisons achieving all the goals given to her in a previous meeting with the Pords.
"Greeting Taox'vos, it is a nice to meet new people under these circumstances rather then boring diplomatic meetings or in more hostile scenarios." She replied politely
"You've travelled some way for a banquet, i hope your flight to the Avarian was a peaceful one, we've had some pirate troubles this end of the galaxy lately." Vance added
"And no, you're not interrupting at all, come join the conversation. We always have time for the Pords." Hazel said smiling at the man.
Taox gave a respectful nod; though he was slightly vexed by the interjection of the Pord, he dared not express it here.
"If I may be so bold as to speak on behalf of the House of Kings, then may I return such a gesture."
His attention focused back to Hazel and Vance as his helm hissed slightly, the light from within shifting with his gaze.
"Ah, well, as much as I relish the thought of in-flight entertainment, I was fortunate enough to have had an escort in the form of Dirge. It has been quite a journey, further than I have ever travelled, and to find myself amidst such a gathering of notable figures is an honour."
The Exemplar turned, nimbly plucking four Vestahllian drinks from a passing tray and turning back to the others.
"Come, let us drink to new relations and new friends."
The dreamer's eye split into multiple different retina, and scanned the room. As Elwar quickly disappeared into the crowd she searched for a particular party, as she had something that belonged to them, before her eyes settled on Grodan. She produced a small, curt smile, and began over towards them. The multitude of limbs sprouting form her shoulder grasped frantically at the tables as she passed by, nimbly darting in between dignitaries present. She took stalk of the figure, and adjusted her proportions accordingly, condensing the muscle fibres in her leg to be roughly a half a head shorter in stature than Grodan, to appear less threatening.
Her fingers wrapped around the edges of her plate, small vacuums forming at the very tips of her slender fingers, pulling foodstuffs into them for consumption. This was not the first time the Dreamer had formed a body for itself. This was however, the first time it had forged a body to inhabit, that was design to be as they are . The dreamer's smile faded from her face for a moment as she found herself dissatisfied with the meal, though she continued to eat to maintain appearances. The sensation was like... kissing through saranwrap. Devoid of real feeling beyond the superficial qualities. Filtering her immense stream of consciousness through a single host was an imperfect art. As the awareness of the entirety of the Dirge hivemind became honed and focused through that single, biological body, a psionic thrum that would be familiar to those that had encountered the dirge while they were still trapped in the dream. Cutlery and glasses began to rattle as the dreamer neared her destination, as the immense potential of the hivemind began to spill through the imperfect body, and for a brief second all movement in the kitchen area and the immense ring-world ceased.
She felt a nudging at the edge of her perception that pulled her aware back, the immense network resumed its activity. She glanced towards the six figures that trailed closely behind her, The bridge crew of an Annolidian craft that had initiated first contact with dirge over a year ago. Each were dressed in what they considered to be finery, resulting in a number of clashing styles and colours forming a truly...unique procession. The leader of the first contact mission returned the dreamer's glance with a smirk of his own, as he withdrew his mind. As she stopped before the Annodidian group, the psionic bleeding had all but stopped, and many of the plates she carried were now empty, cleaned spotless.
“Greetings, annolidiants, for our second encounter.. Before we may begin to establish a proper diplomatic rapport, there is something i must return to you..” The dreamer sidestepped and gestured towarsds the 6 bridge crew with several of her primary limbs.
“we apologize for any inconvenience their deaths may have caused towards your people. The rest of the crew are several decks bvelow us partaking of the festivities. If transporting them is inconvenient for you, we can oversee their safe return home after the banquet draws to a close.”
"Of course, new friends are always welcomed." Hazel replied politely taking a glass.
"The more the merrier as they say." Vance said also taking a glass.
"So do the Echotonians and the Dirge share a long and fulfilling history of cooperation?" Hazel asked Taox.
Taox took a respectful taste of the drink, his warhelm parting with a gentle hiss, to allow the fluid into his mouth.
"Indeed. They were the first in fact to greet us into this new galaxy, and have remained loyal ever since. The United Echotian Empire considers them good friends and staunch allies."
He smiled beneath the helm, satisfied with the beverage that reminded him he was far from House territory.
"Though perhaps I shall fool myself as being the latest to the gathering? What, may I ask, has been your peoples relations with our great Dreamer?"
Kalglok nods and continues to eat. He catches himself, however, and slows up - more dishes are due to come and it wouldn't be prudent to become full before having the opportunity to taste all of what is being provided.
As the Echotian addresses Hazel, Kalglok grabs a glass of drink and turns towards the ACR representative. On the heels of a drink and the Echotian query, he says, hopefully amicable, although perhaps this is a great opportunity to mend things if not.
Sulimarne mentally noted the social faux pas but was not offended by it, after all it could empathize with Elwar in the arena of new experiences with species and their unique social expectations. “I do not believe any harm was done, I do agree with your ideas regarding the UNA and PGL, it seems the two organization’s objectives are similar enough that I cannot foresee anything but cooperation. It might be wise move towards a mutually beneficial agreement in the near future.” Sulimarne of course avoided any mention of the elections and political activity going on in the Dominion’s home territory. It was a touchy subject that honestly was kept as quiet as was possible, though that all Dominion official communications seemed to be coming from a specific location in the Dominion held sliver of the former Davian territories. It was only a matter of time before anyone noticed though hopefully not today. The mention of the Lack of Vestahl forces at the shadow battle was also considered a someone ‘hands off topic’, and admittedly While Sulimarne had anticipated it to come up it appeared sooner than expected. Even some military officials in the Dominion had wondered about the absence; Sulimarne had even heard Commodore-Emeritus Taravis musing about it in one instance during a staff meeting but it was deemed politically hazardous to approach the topic. Thankfully though Elwar, was probably the one sapient in the galaxy who could get away with asking flat out with no recriminations, and thankfully he did. Sulimarne looked towards the Vestahl representatives curious to see what they had to say about the incident. Sulimarne was mentally memorizing every bit of the interaction for a later recount and report specifically for the top brass later on.
To her credit, D'Arcy managed to keep her expression constant throughout Elwar's comment on the lack of a Commonwealth presence at the final battle against the Shadows. She had expected it was a subject that would likely come up, though she had hoped it may be longer before it did.
"The Commonwealth fairs well all things considered," She answered, first addressing the question of how the nation faired before addressing the absence from the battle at Zaingraf.
"But internal politics of the Commonwealth remain volatile. The civil war is still recent, and there is no shortage of people who wish to see the war continue nor is there any shortage of agitators and demagogues still wishing to extol the virtues of armed struggle against perceived injustices."
Security and defense resources were spread thin maintaining the fragile peace that had ended the civil war and securing the expanding borders of the Commonwealth. Doubly so when the Fleet had found itself having to conduct operations in and protect supply lines to Dectrose space on the opposite side of the galaxy.
"Several terror attacks frustrated our efforts to assemble forces for the attack at Zaingraf, I regret that the Commonwealth was unable to send forces in time to make a difference, but we will lend whatever aid we can to help with reconstruction and recovery efforts."
waAufsghenzr and Enasse sat at a table together, sampling meats from various quisines that Elwar had made for the event. They sat alone, which suited them fine as neither of their species was renowned as being at the forefront of Singer diplomacy….as odd as those two words sounded. Nonetheless Enasse, in his centauroid posture, calmly ate a meat dish from a world he forgot as soon as the delicious food touched his taste buds. Turning to Aufsghenzr he said “I have to say for an AI Elwar is quite a gourmand.” Laughing, his companion muttered “Surprised you know the word, the way you’re ahem wolfing down that stuff." Raising an eyebrow, the Kalizwah said “Puns? at a formal dinner? How gloriously painful."
The two laughed and then continued with their meals. Enasse noted Minister Nelyrien walking towards the Risallas delegation. “Now he’s a proper diplomat. Not like us two inglorious bastards, still, better to be like us then Bulbcloud over there.” He briefly glanced towards Nyriel-L'Eral, who floated about the room like an incarnate ghost. “Is he attending the dinner or haunting it?” *Both... * a voice seemed to come out of the air at their table. Swallowing Enasse said "Uhh...some more meat I think." and rose, walking to the table with the array of foods, Aufsghenzr walking along beside him.
Sector Minister Nelyrien had been enjoying the foods, but also realized this was also an opportunity for business of state. He approached Sulimarne, the head of the Risallas delegation. “Greetings. I was wondering if we could have some time to talk. I was curious about our states’ mutual investigation of the astronomical anomaly, and also wished to discuss some additional arrangements in the wake of the now thankfully resolved Zaingraf Incursion crisis.” He also nodded to Elwar. “You are an excellent host, Elwar. And the Anais Unity has much to discuss with you as well. It’s fortunate that the three of us conveniently met, is it not?"
Nyriel-L’Eral on the other hand could have been said to be almost melancholy. He could not engage in shaking hands or such greetings for fear of converting the other party. He tried some of the dishes but he could sense every quark in the food and how they all interacted to become baryons, atoms, molecules, and finally fruits vegetables and meats. *One downside to our ‘evolution' * he thought to himself. *Who can I speak to who could possibly understand? * He then looked over towards where the Dreamer stood, He floated over to the Dreamer, resonating as they drew close. *Greetings. Of all the beings and myriad life forms present I feel the most kinship with you. I am Nyriel-L’Eral. On behalf of my bondsiblings and the Anyth, I bring you salutations. *
"I agree Sulimarne I will definitely be pushing for better mutual co-operation. After all the pirate activity and the exploitation which has risen rapidly in the deadzone and the surroundings of this region worries me and is sure to be something we must all work together to curb in the future" Elwar then smiled to D'Arcy with a nod.
"I am glad to hear the Commonwealth is faring well, civil unrest I imagine is a tough order to keep on top of. If anything the reconstruction and recovery efforts may be the hardest part of the Shadows legacy, especially with the pirate and destabilising elements on the rise. If the Commonwealth does require any assistance however do not hesitate to ask, I also offer an invitation to the UNA if your people would so wish it. I firmly believe that now is the time for us to ensure that the co-operation that this region has enjoyed in the face of such darkness should not be squandered" The last sentence being primarily to both representatives. The appearance of Minister Nelyrien caused Elwar to turn and bow in respect.
"You flatter me Minister, this was not my idea but the Dreamers, I merely offered to host is all. I am sure your people have much to discuss indeed, you are like me in age, I am eager to listen to what you wish to bring forward"
While the dreamer engaged the Annolodian party, returning the bridge crew to the diplomatic team, the Dreamers many miniscule eyes kept tabs on each of the representatives , utilising small demoiorganic components of the walls to corroborate the data. The Previous meetings at the CORE had nearly ended in a bloodbath, so the dreamer had a healthy caution with so many different prominent, powerful nations present.
She felt a pull as though gravity were compressed as Nyriel-L’Eral approached, as though the living spatial distortion was preceded by a warm, compressed shadow, obscuring and obfuscating it true shape. As she was talking with the Annolidians, The Dreamer wretched from herself, all f the red of her body bleeding and flowing off into a nearly identical body as her newest form. A pearlescent statue-esque figure remained with the Annolidians, while a bright red, more exotic appearance of the being inverted, and was formed in time to meet face to… front.
“This is a joyous occasion. To be in the presence of a being f such heightened evolution is to be in ecstasy. The Singers are an enigma we have always observed from distance. To be face to face now is most excellent”
The Crimson avatar of the Dreamer observed the multi-planar space with all manner of internally grown organs, radiation and gravimetric sensors. She was extremely infatuated with the otherworldly being.
She glanced at the food stuffs spaghettifying within the twisting planar manifolds, being broken into infinitesimal strings but never really broken apart. “It would appear that these food are dissatisfying to you. We will serve our course next for your benefit. It includes some more exotic dishes, such a gravimetrically induced cheese produced by a form of infant meta-fauna at the edges of the golden expanse. I’m sure you will find a thing of that nature more stimulating. Of course it is all designed with them all in mind, to be harmless to their biologies I can provide an.. unpasteurized dish that will be more fulfilling to your nature.
"Your invitation is most generous," D'Arcy answered Elwar. "Do not hesistate to call upon the Commonwealth in any capacity in the recovery effort. I will convey your invitation to my superiors and I'm sure it will be discussed in depth in the coming days,"
She kept her address short, seeing as the conversation seemed to be moving on with the arrival of Minister Nelyrien.
"We haven't had much to do with the DIrge, outside of helping the Vestahl Commonwealth with its civil war some years back under the UDS colonial government." Hazel said taking another sip of her drink.
"We're hoping this will be a good opportunity to open up more diplomatic avenues with the attendees." Vance remarked
The exchange between the Vestahl and Elwar thankfully was without the expected heated exchange that seemed all too common in the galaxy. “Indeed, I do not believe it is in any nation’s best interest to be unprepared for another such incursion. If history is any indicator we will have another such threat certainly” Sulimarne responded politely to Elwar’s statement about unity. The fact was that responsible nations couldn’t really afford to not work in unison. But of course there were a few things to handle while the opportunity was available. “While I don’t want to darken this fine event with a tactical concern, was it ever determined why the Shadows seemed so interested in our galaxy? As far as high command knows, no communication was successful, and if we can determine intent we might be able to ascertain when and where they might return.” This question was generalized though Sulimarne figured that Elwar might be able to answer it, if not then one of the other representatives.
"The honour is mine D'Arcy I will not hesitate to do so, this activity by rogues and pirates is one we are all affected by I will likely ask for help in time" He bowed. Turning his head slightly to Sulimarne.
"Without a doubt representative you speak the truth. This is a prosperous and active galaxy it is only a matter of time before a nation or force of overwhelming power comes here and attempts to force its claim. It has happened before and it will happen again. It is true the Shadows had no communication with us there was several theories, given information I was able to glean on the Ancnet as well as data sharing with nations such as the Union this was not the first time they had even tried to enter in modern history. An event known as Natza Kartania also heralded an incursion although it was stopped at a small stage. Whatever the Shadows want they clearly are able to access this universe easier than most. Perhaps dimensional alignment allows them to punch through only a tiny barrier between us and their original home. While that doesn't answer what they want, I think it gives us a good indication that it is certain they shall try again. Perhaps you have more theories?" Elwar turned to Nelyrien wondering if the Singers had more possible ideas of what the Shadows motives were.
Taox smiled behind the helm; the metallic casing hissed as he took another sip of his beverage, looking over at the Dreamer as the party continued around them. Such a sight to behold, this gathering of nations. His predecessor, Zenith Frey, had once been a part of many a gathering such as this, though none as successfully peaceful.
He turned back to the ACR and Pordish delegate,
"As I am sure many others seek similar goals, I shall not lay claim to any more of your precious time. Consider your presence here an invitation to reach out to the U.E.E. once this whole matter has concluded. Perhaps our nations could benefit from some mutual cooperation, yes?"
The echo gave a curt salute, folding a fist over his chest before performing a small bow.
"Until then, Vor'ek."
The Pords nod back to their Echotian counterpart. We will, Kalglok tells him, we most certainly will
Ulatüt smiles and makes a note of Kalglok's promise; he will need to follow up on it in due time. For now, though, the food is good and there are plenty of others to mingle with. Kalglok takes the lead and slides over closer to Elwar and D'Arcy; Ulatüt follows.
If I may, I couldn't help but overhear your theories about the Shadows, he says to Elwar, having only really caught the tail end of the conversation, they do seem to be a rather primordial force. Not too dissimilar to other agents of entropy. Slaves to little more than the most primal paradigms of reality. Ancerious is prosperous and hasn't fallen to the forces of chaos that reign elsewhere; perhaps that attracts them, he concludes after a moment. It wouldn't surprise me if they do come again for this very reason.
He finishes what remains of his small portion while ruminating on the matter. The Shadows had piqued the interests of many Pords of the Council, and those within the ranks of the VRZ sought to investigate the matter further once the gravity of the situation had been made clear. Dimensional threats are always worth keeping an eye on. Ulatüt says nothing, but takes a long drink from his glass, then busies himself with tracking down a refill.
Sulimarne processed what was added by the interjection of the Pord’s commentary into the existing conversation. Of course each species Sulimarne met was different and even the similar ones had differing cultural expectations. It was also within the nature of the meeting that representatives would drift about. Even so, Sulimarne did have to wonder if that was normal for the Pord’s species or if it was a personal trait. Truthfully little was known about the Pords by the Dominion other than the first encounter and the final battle to stop the expansion of the Shadows. Opting to not ponder it further Sulimarne did offer some additional insight from the Dominion side of things. “I do not have any doubt we will have to fight them again; our calculations are such that the probability of this occurring will be highest if within the next century or so.” Sulimarne seemed to be listening to something heard at a distance for just a few moments before continuing. In truth this was Sulimarne communicating with another Sihiteri in the Dominion contingent. Through that brief and encrypted communication Sulimarne gained a copy of the results of the after-action reports in question. “There is one detail that the Dominion was able to glean from our analysts poring over hundreds of hours of sensor logs. The Shadows were acting in a concentrated manner not unlike a super-organism, which might suggest their true danger isn’t in the individual but whom or what is pulling the strings of the masses. Whatever that is, may not like our very existence...our free will” Sulimarne trained off letting the implications of its statements do all the suggesting. The reality was that like many others the Dominion wasn’t all that much closer to figuring out what precisely the shadows are, however the estimation of how they act and react was another matter.
”Perhaps it is a question of primordial force. Other than Natza Kartania in modern history I have found references from several ancient folklore, writings and data caches which have indicated a possible 4 more incursions in times before the modern era. None of these are confirmed however but descriptions and mentions share a high percentage match. I do agree, that it is almost guaranteed for another one of their attempts to happen within the next century Sulimarne. If they are some kind of force inherent to entropy or destruction beyond our current understanding then it may be in our best interest next time to study them as much as we can. And study their source.” Elwar agreed as he conversed, noting the Pordish representative Kalgloks comment.
”Either way we must be ready for them, or whatever other threat poses significant risk to the galaxy” Elwar then looked up slightly and smiled ”On a more lighter note, it is time for the next course my friends”
As soon as those words exited Elwar's synthetic through, the walls opened into a flurry of activity. An areal ballet between the two hive-minds, as though the representations of Elwar and the Dreamer intertwined as the swarms of precise mechanical geometry , and abstracted, toroidal bio-mechanical intermingled. Crimson and marble both side-eyed Elwar as the display took place, what was to follow was the main course, as prepared by the Annolidians. A small action for certain, one that Elwar was sure to pick up on.
A majority of the Ceranol was been consumed, with as well stripped carcass lining the main table. To waste such a meal would insult the deep heritage of the Veshtal, so the Dirge instead repurposed the remaining beast to prepare for the Annolidian course. The meal was sliced thinly against the grain by mantis like creatures, paper thin, rolled into ornate savoury rose dishes, perfectly complementing the overwhelmingly bitter of the next meal, while bringing out the brilliant colours of the exotic sea-life.
Annolidian Course
The Annolidian flag was flown as the lift silently reached its apex. Drones above the guests provided a veritable aurora as to give the impression of walking on the ocean's floor. Aerosolised salt water was released into the room shortly after and the humidity slightly raised ,though the temperature was maintained to ensure comfort.
The Ceranol meat roses were soon flanked by brightly coloured Annol flowers. In place of traditional platewear , utensils and dishes were brought out on immense, edible kelp leaves. Soon after, waiters brought out an array of brightly coloured, frosted fruit drinks served vertically in prawn and lobster heads, the sweet fruit mixing with the sweet umami of the freshly butchered sealife.
The centrepiece took the form of five large pill-bugs of different Colour, each rolled and cracked along the side, the innards slowly marinated with seafood and native citruses to nature. Each pill-bug is labelled as a different species, as well as a small historical note of the dish.
Karrokuri Hige Three small Karrokuri beetles, adolecnet and yet to develop their bitter taste. They are slow stewed with jellyfish pulp, fried Spindlereed and various small sweet berries and fruits
Karrokuri Nagoya A huge bright purple Karrokuri that is fed exclusively for ceremonial purposes. It's movement is restricted while it is fed extremely rich, fatty seafood such as lobster to cause it to grow. Its organs develop delicious fat deposits that slough off the organs when stewing, producing a sweet, savoury rich stew. It is custom to scrape the meat from the interior of the Shell
Karrokuri Gakte *The abdomen of half a Dozen beetles, with the Roe in tact along the underside of each belly, along with meat stripped from each leg, giving the impression of the grape size beetle roe resting in a nest. Each abdomens been sourced from a separate subspecies of beetle, each a bright colour, with a different uniquely pleasant flavour when popped in the mouth.
Karrokuri Aka The abdomen and meaty parts have been separated and independently fried. Brine has been used to deglaze the pan to produce a rich ,salty stock to drizzle the meat or dip breads in.
Karrokuri Soku *A full hundred tiny red beetledupburned and served in a style similat to stuffed mushroom caps. The shells of these beetles are stuffed with magma snail sloime reductions, small hotpeppers and capcaiscan possesing coral species.
Beside the spiced food is 200 small protions favours yogurt*
The chefs permit Elwars drones to serve the dish, unwilling to allow the Dirge to 'contaminante' the dish, and stood lining the outer walls facign in, eagerly awaiting the response at the brilliant dish.
Marble began to appraoch elwar, slipping through the Crowd while the drones delivered the meals, and distributed dishes.
Elwars constructs performed their part in the ballet like clockwork, with the biological aspects of the Dirge allowing them to perform their own intricate movements Elwars constructs followed. Each of the small floating spheres, objects which had proved to be almost frighteningly powerful at anti-tank duties during the two events on Askandar, now floated around in a way that was reminiscent of rhythms from Annolidian music, each one carrying platters and plates of the meals as they placed them on the tables or handed them to guests.
Elwar himself selected the different meals, consuming some Karrokuri Gakte and showing subtle changes in his form as he processed the taste, texture and appearance. Almost instantly he turned to Marble that approached him, another extension of the Dreamer.
”Everything is going according to plan so far, our efforts have proven most fruitful and the guests seem extremely pleased. This was an excellent idea friend” He spoke.
Neither of the Pords hesitate in grabbing portions of the new selections brought out. So far, the food has been exquisite, and the Annolidian dishes only continue this trend. Ulatüt in particular finds himself drawn to the salty Karrokuri Aka (a nice complement to his refilled beverage), while Kalglok savors the complex and rich flavours of his portion of Karrokuri Nagoya.
As Kalglok eats, however, he continues to consider Sulimarne's, and then Elwar's comment, even as the AI's drones go about their business of serving the most recent dish. Ancient folklore isn't always the best source of historical information, but often there are holdouts of what was found within the oceans of what wasn't. It might be worth investigating later. He turns to Ulatüt.
We should follow up on these ancient leads, he says. I have a feeling there's still a lot out there to be found.
Ulatüt nods with a swallow. Considering what we know already? I'll make a note of it.
Kalglok raises his brows in agreement. Turning towards Elwar, and the marble extension of the Dreamer, he shifts his thoughts to the present. This ambiance is magnificent, he says. It complements the dishes very well.
Now standing alone the pair looked at the dishes being brought out. They were amazed at the skill of the chefs with how distinct and vibrant each dish look. Although they had no idea what any of it was they were keen to try some, in the the spirit of the event. The pair decided to interact with the Rissallas next. They approached the Lieutenant-Colonel Sulimarne and offered a polite greeting.
"How are you enjoying the banquet, Lieutenant-Colonel Sulimarne?" Hazel asked politely
As the last words were exchanged Sulimarne glanced towards what was being brought out currently, and at least from a visual perspective it was quite impressive. The new dish ware, and the slight change in environment was noted as was the quite delightful interplay of color and textures and their supporting features. The way in which varied species represented their foods as part of their cultural customs had been a fascinating thing to study for Sulimarne simply for the purpose of understanding how, these organic life forms created energy. It was all nuanced, interlaced with pleasure and biological function that was produced from countless millennia of evolution and then with social evolution stacked on top of it. There was a time which Sulimarne remembered quite fondly when it did not understand the function of eating at all, it wasn’t then and still isn’t something the Sihitieri did. This was what the neural cradle around Sulimarne’s neck was for, it roughly translated the tasting and texture sensations of what a few assistants ate so Sulimarne might have some sort of idea of the experience. Noting the steam coming off some dishes while others were served cold highlighted another dimension to this experience the variance in temperatures which altered texture and flavor. Of course then came the cultural issues, as the assistants chosen gracefully avoided things that looked more insect-like while not being bothered by sea creatures that had a visual similarity to that which was familiar. Sulimarne didn’t get much time to consider what was going on before the two representatives from the ACR approached. “Ah, Mrs. Kelly, I was hoping to speak with you at some point during this event. Some of these foods that are being offered are quite intriguing. Just seeing the differences in culinary pursuits has been quite the learning experience. Though I trust that you and Mr. Cole are both enjoying this momentous occasion also?”
”Ah thank you representative Kalgok. Truly this was all the Dreamers plans, I merely assisted in them becoming reality. We can only hope that the camaraderie and friendship displayed here today will endure and help proceedings across the galactic west in the years to come” Elwar replied taking a taste of the Karrokuri Gakte and experiencing the taste with a colourful display of emotion across the beings face.
”I wonder if such measures could be implemented or held elsewhere in the galaxy to help diplomatic processes. Perhaps the last war could have been avoided with such”
Kalglok nods thoughtfully. Though seemingly asked without need for a solid answer, after a moment, he nevertheless replies to Elwar: Certainly, he agrees, and there are many regions that might benefit from such gatherings.
He goes back to eating the food and savouring the delicious flavours and textures as his companion, Ulatüt does the same.
Hazel was glad to hear that the Dominion delegate wanted to talk to them, little gestures like these could mean a lot in the way of a long harmonious friendship. She observed Sulimarne for a moment before responding.
"Yes, we're having an excellent time. The food is great and the company is just as good. Its a good place to be among friends with." Hazel said excitedly.
"So what we're you hoping to speak to us about this evening?" Vance queried Sulimarne politely.
“The company certainly is quite delightful, but we all know why we are really here.” Sulimarne gestured moving his hand in a polite circular gesture as if indicating that the food and drink were more for the purpose of getting the delegates moving towards discussions of things far more heavy than basic pleasantries. “I think a good place to start in this case is a discussion of the potential for a modest trade arrangement with your nation directly. We’re looking for certain refined materials and there is a…willingness to trade in kind over say, the next decade at least. It would be the foundation for future arrangements of course, the kind of thing that looks good in the press, and helps all involved.” Sulimarne let the implications land as they may, after all from what it had read about the ACR they seemed to prefer a direct approach.“As I also understand it, the UNA has embarked on a joint mission to handle the alliance’s best interests in trade. We are interested in assisting the alliance in its endeavors; we’ve just been hamstrung by the loss of communications to high command and the fallout from the battle with the shadows.” Sulimarne paused to let the implications swirl, since when did the Dominion ever loose contact with its own? Leaving nothing to mystery Sulimarine continued and in the process filled in the missing details.
“Well, we had exceptional difficulties getting word of anything to high command due to interfering phenomena in the strand. After a certain officer’s ‘methods’ to get forces to the shadow battle High command needs now to approve deployments before anything is shifted unless there is a imminent attack so, I think you see what the issue was.” With a gesture a small map of space between the Sarayan territories and the large amount of distance to the western galactic fringe appeared as a hologram. The image didn’t give away much in terms of tactical data but did reveal that relay stations, quite a few of them had to be placed in secured areas in a curved arc heading west. “The communications break was so bad that we had to send actual courier ships to move critical information, materials and personnel in an expedited fashion for a few weeks at least. That mess was fixed most recently; we build a set of relays just to resolve the issue. That said the offer stands and we are hoping the UNA will utilize it when the time comes.”
"We're glad to hear that these problems are on the mend, if they become too much don't be afraid to reach out to us or the UNA for assistance. We're all neighbours and friends after all." Hazel replied politely taking a sip of her champagne
"As for the matters of trade you brought up that can be settled here and now as we have an open borders policy for anyone and everyone, bar a few who will get stopped at the borders. As for the matter of the UNA i can't help with that directly, you'd have to mention it to your delegates and go through their channels. I don't think anyone from there was in attendance tonight though which is unfortunate." Hazel added
And so, the feast went on, each round being just as ingenious and unique as the last with the drones of Elwar helping to provide the guests with each of the representative nation meals. While the Dreamer continued to use its extensions to prepare the vast array of courses and food the diplomacy went on, the banquet stretching for at the time of its ending almost half a day. Trade was solidified, matters mused on and diplomatic agreements affirmed as all of those who attended intermingled and partake in the endless food that seemingly never ran out. For Elwar of course it was a new experience, the AI was on the cusp of becoming something new with the almost completion of the Athenaeum and having created a new body just to taste and smell the sheer processing at Askandars core over something so fundamental had almost taxed his central core to its limit.
As the proceedings came to a close and the first dignitaries and groups began to take their leave it was swiftly followed by parting speeches and talk of thanks to both Elwar and the Dreamer. The banquet had been a stunning success and both rather socially unknowing entities had tasted proper interaction for the first time. It had been a massive experience and one both would process for some time. Still the goal had been achieved.
With drones of both the Dirge and Elwar rapidly moving to clean and pack up everything laid out the avatar of the machine AI stood by the banquet table one last time. As Dirge forms ravenously consumed everything that was left and Elwars drones stripped the warehouse down and rebuilt it clean and new around him Elwar picked at the remains of a Free Worlds dish, once again eating a small bite before the dish disappeared into a storm of mouths and arms.
He savoured the moment, and a small feeling in him knew that, come the ascension he may not truly appreciate such in the same way again.