.
Crimson, Canopus IV
January 10th, 3040
It had been a strange few months for Imperator Marius O'Reilly. First, the revelations of Sean's embezzling. He'd always known the boy was ambitious and secretive, had always wondered if he would one day suffer an "accident" when Sean wanted the throne, but draining Hegemony funds to support a dozen or more mistresses was too much. Once he learned that he was a grandfather, the Imperator had quickly moved to have the plebeian girl and his grandson brought to Nova Roma. Baby Julius was his new heir. Sean himself had been stripped of position within the government, disinherited, and banished to one of the new colonies he had been siphoning money from, Herculaneum, which he had heard the inhabitants were already calling "Marius's Tears" because of the great disgrace their new colonist had brought on his father. And then he got a letter inviting him to a pan-Periphery conference to discuss "the current situation and the possibility of cooperation". So here he was, being chauffeured through the capital of his nation's most common raiding target to a meeting with the Magestrix herself and representatives from, presumably, the other leading periphery powers. Any that cared to answer the call, at any rate. What strange times we live in, he mused. Alliance is the order of the day. the Fed-Com Treaty, the Kapteyn Concord, and now the great powers of the Periphery were coming together. Could this be the start of some coalition of Periphery states, or would they be unable to reconcile their many differences, Marius wondered as he gazed out the window at the people and the architecture of the Canopian capital.
Crimson, Canopus IV
January 10th, 3040
It has been so many years in the working, all of the secrets and deals. There were many times before that he had believed that this day would come, but then someone would say something dumb or a politician from one of the minor groups would make new demands stopping everything and sending it all back to councils and committees.
But now he could see the end of this journey; well not really the end of the whole journey, just start of another part. Leaders from multiple governments were now on planet; some decidedly small, but others like the Imperator himself. They all would be meeting soon to review the final papers. With hope now that the Marians were finally on board the neigh sayers would be quieted.
Soon he would be able to come out of hiding and the many years of deception would be over, soon but not yet...
JumpShip Isolation's Weight
Local Space, Canopus IV
10 January, 3040
From the handheld communicator that the woman carried when she strode onto the grav-deck of the JumpShip Isolation's Weight came the sounds of a broadcast, one which the woman listened to with deliberation as her boot-falls reverberated on the deck plating. She was a petite woman of athletic build and graceful movements, clad in a form-fitting red jumpsuit with black gloves, boots, and a belt bearing a sidearm. And she was alone.
"This is Julien Trimnoux from Luxen in the Magistracy of Canopus. I am standing in front of the DC Tower Office and Hotel complex where, during the last 10 days, various preparations for an important meeting have begun. Our sources tell us that multiple representatives from various other nations, including the Magestrix are scheduled to arrive within the next three months. Currently we do not know what will be happening here on Luxen, but we will keep you informed on any progress. This is Julien Trimnoux reporting from Luxen."
Turning off the device she held after the recording had finished playback, the auburn-haired woman looked out the viewport of the JumpShip's grav-deck at the world of Canopus IV below. The vessel had arrived clandestinely fifteen minutes previously from an L5 point near the Canopian moon of Inanna, in the shadow of which it now hid itself. And in the reflection of the window at which she stood, she appeared to smile just slightly, and she touched a hand to the glass as she spoke so softly that her voice did not carry beyond herself.
"So this is where it begins."
With that, the woman turned from the commanding view of Canopus and to the man who had stepped into the hatchway leading into the grav-deck where she stood. The newcomer placed his right hand to the left side of his chest in a sharp salute, his fingertips pressed to his thumb, and he assumed a crisp military stance. The woman nodded sharply in response, placing her hands on her hips as she did so.
"Prepare the DropShip for launch. We do not wish to be late."
Crimson, Canopus IV
January 11th, 3040
The young Magestrix Emma Centrella looked up as the doors to the meeting room opened. Her guards ushered the toga-clad Marian Imperator into the room. Rising in greeting, she offered her hand to the older man. "Greeting, Imperator. I trust your trip went well?"
"Quite. Your capital is most beautiful, Magestrix. Of course, I would expect no less than beauty from your realm."
She smiled "It is something we do well. I'm sorry to say my preparations have not gone as well as hoped."
"Oh? how so?"
"It seems this meeting will not be as well-attended as I had hoped. Most of the invitees have rejected my invitation. Of course, I expected that of some of the....lesser realms on the coreward side of the Sphere. The journey is, as they say, long and full of terrors." She carefully avoided calling them "bandit kingdoms", considering the fact that most would consider the grey-haired man in front of her no more than the most successful of the bandit kings. "Even the closer realms like Circinus and the Lothian League refused attendance, saying they wanted nothing to do with, forgive me, 'untrustworthy pirates cloaked in the barest legitimacy.'"
The Imperator smiled a bit at that. "Yes, my nation has had a dark past, I'll not deny that. Certainly not to the woman whose nation has felt the sting of our raids most keenly. But I hope you'll trust me when I say that I'd not have bothered to attend this meeting if I did not want to bootstrap my people up from the old ways. If I were still just a petty bandit king like Grimm or Valasek I'd not walk unarmed into the capital building of a former target of our raids. I take it the response was better from the greater powers, Taurus and the Outworlds?"
"Your candor is appreciated, Imperator, and yes, the response was better, if only marginally. The President Avellar also begged off on the basis of distance, but he wished us luck and asked to be kept apprised of the results. Protector Calderon is sending an emissary."
"Let me guess, he's too busy checking under his bed for Davion assassins?"
The Magestrix chuckled at that, shaking her head. "Now now, Imperator, we should not make fun of our potential allies odder proclivities. I've said nothing of your attire, after all." she said with a sly smile.
Marius grinned. "I think all the notable powers in human space have adopted one cultural veneer or another. The ComStar adepts with their monkish robes, the neo-feudal trappings of chivalry in the Suns and bushido in the Combine, and so on. My grandfather Johann wished to take Rome as his model, and felt it best to do so in more than just the way he organized his government. He felt, I think, that adopting Roman dress, building style, and so forth would serve as a constant reminder to the people of what he was trying to achieve. " Marius shrugged and smiled at her "At least, that's what I tell my advisors if they question it. I was too young when he left us to have spent much time discussing matters of state with him."
"And my condolences for your loss. Whatever else he was, and whatever else it cost our peoples in bad blood, he was truly a man of great vision. At any rate, I gather that the Taurian emissary is highly placed, Thomas sounded as if he fully trusted him and would abide by whatever his emissary agreed to. He was a little secretive about it though, I'm as yet uncertain why. But he should be arriving soon. There could be other emissaries from small powers, but probably no one worth, shall we say, sitting at the grown-ups' table. They'll follow our lead or they won't. Perhaps we could review some economic figures while we wait?" she asked.
"Certainly"
She nodded, called up the files on her computer, and added "Oh, one more thing, let me get us some refreshment" she said, activating her intercom system.
DropShip Thicker Than Water
Crimson, Canopus IV
11 January, 3040
The aerodyne form of the Broadsword-class DropShip hurtled through the skies of Canopus, leaving a contrail in its wake as it breached the atmosphere and proceeded with purpose towards the capital city of the Magistracy. The vessel penetrated the light cloud cover over Crimson, and the only passenger of note aboard the vessel looked out of her viewport upon the surface with an unreadable expression.
Even with the scars of heavy industry on the surface of this world, it is still so...breathtaking. She sighed once, quietly, and allowed herself the smallest of smiles. Perhaps the Council's decision was wiser than I thought. But are we ready to take this step? Once tread, there is no going back.
With that thought, the woman shook her head to clear her thoughts. The time for doubts had passed. She had committed to this path for good or ill, and her people were now counting on her to do her duty to the utmost of her ability. Her honor demanded that she not fail them, so she would not.
"Pilot," she spoke aloud after she depressed the com-button built into the arm of her chair. "Request clearance for landing, and also announce that the Magestrix should prepare to receive...an uninvited guest."
Crimson, Canopus IV
January 11th, 3040
Meeting Halls
"Excuse me, lady Magestrix, Imperator."
A small Man had been overlooked entereing the room by them two.
"My name is VicePresident Chuck Maledden... and Niops would very much like to sit... as you put it... at the grown ups table. Would this be acceptable for you?"
He looked a little funny in his suit, the bulging belly and the notepad under his arm.
And a little lost among the extravagant and extraordinary leaders of larger nations...
Crimson, Canopus IV
January 10th, 3040
Private Rooms outside Meeting Halls
She could barely sit up any longer; the disease had taken so much from her. Yet, there she had been told that the doctors here in the Magistracy may be able to help. That was an important reason to make this trip no matter how much against it her father was.
But, it wasn't the only reason; she was still Heir Apparent, the title had not been shift to Ian even though he felt it was his right. She had made this trip to finalize the mutual economic and defense treaty that had taken so many years to bring about.
But still the wasn't the only reason she was here. After so long she would be able to see him again.
They would meet here before the main meeting to have a moment to talk and cry and smile, than business would have to take precedence.
Her guards opened the doors and allowed the visitor to enter. For a moment she was in shock, he stopped and looked at her...
Was he ready for this, after so long of being in hiding and having to play these secret games. Was he ready to come out of the shadows?
The excitement of seeing her again was overbearing. He thought that he had gotten over the heart ache and the loneliness. The Constabulary and the Ministry had done an excellent job of keeping him isolated from anyone who might have gotten wind of what had happened. That was an added benefit as having them work together built in a back door to help this treaty get signed and then enforced. This mission was beyond anyone's personal feelings; no one believed that this day would come.
He straightened his jacket once more and then moved down the hall. The guards moved with him, the floor had been cleared and checked many times. His party stopped at the doors and the military guards here did not budge. The Brigadier that escorted him handed the Force Sergeant a hand written order.
The man's eyes shot wide, "Sir, I need to confirm this."
"Force Sergeant read those orders again, see who signed them. Now stand aside. These guards will hold you here until you are released by myself or one of the individuals named on that paper."
Snapping to attention the Force Sergeant saluted, "Sir, yes sir...I am just in shock." Turn towards the escorted man, he began to speak, "I did not know, how could I have..."
The Brigadier snapped, "Force Sergeant hold your tongue, those orders are eyes only. Your men around us have not seen them and they do not need to know what is written here."
"Sir, yes sir." Turning to those gathered, "Corporal allow this party through and until further notice the Brigadier is in command of this detail."
The guards opened the doors and allowed the visitor to enter. For a moment he was in shock, he stopped and looked at her...
2 days later
The main meeting room
All participants of the meeting had been assembled and the hall had gone into closure.
The group of people was pretty much what was expected.
The representatives from the TC, Moc, MH, Niops and also that strange woman in a dark jumpsuit had been secluded in the great meeting hall.
It had been swiped of all electronical devices, cut from the outside and there was a second of darkness when all cuts and ties to the outside world were cut and the generator under the floor took up work.
The magestrix smiled into the group, opened her arms and spoke
"Ladies and gentlemen... welcome to the meeting. Maybe we start by introducing each another one more time officially so we all know what we are dealing with here."
Crimson, Canopus IV
January 13th, 3040An aide passed along a message shortly after the meeting began.
QuoteThere is a rather insistent Capellan Ambassador that is rambling on and on, demanding to know what's going on in here. I think he payed someone at the spaceport to find out who is here because he knows of at least three other people here and he's camped out in our foyer threatening to speak to the press if he's not heard... should we escort him out?
With a not-too-subtle glance toward the woman in the jumpsuit, she shook her head and whispered to the aide "We've plenty of uninvited guests at this meeting already. If we had wanted the Confederation's presence we'd have requested it. Tell the ambassador he'll find out when there's something to say beyond 'we're having a meeting.' I doubt he has anything new to tell the press, since this meeting is obviously less than a secret at this point."
At that, the woman smiled with warmth, though it did not quite reach her cool blue eyes. She brushed a loose lock of dark red hair, bound back into a pair of almost girlish ponytails, and stepped forward at the unspoken summons of the Magestrix.
She had changed from her shipboard jumpsuit to something a bit more...provocative, though who would think so on Canopus? Clad in black and crimson leathers, her attire consisted of a collared, sleeveless vest over a low-cut tank top, skintight leggings tucked into thick-heeled boots that stopped just below her knees, and studded bracers that encased her arms from wrist to elbow. If anything, the woman looked like a pirate, though the bearing with which she carried herself suggested a disciplined, almost military precision.
"Magestrix Centrella, I wish to thank you for allowing me to speak at this momentous conclave, and I also wish to apologize for the mystery surrounding my arrival in your capital. But after you hear what I have to say, I think that you will agree that secrecy at this time is paramount."
This is it, she thought to herself. The moment that my people have dreamed of since the day of our foundation.
"I am Ashanti Zadok, and I bring you greetings from Clan Blood Spirit. We are the true heirs of the Star League, and we have come home."
Oh boy. Better speak up before the Taurian loses it. Marius thought. "I am Marius O'Reilly, Imperator of the Marian Hegemony. To expedite things a bit, I'll introduce my neighbor here" he said, turning to the small man in the next seat "This is Vice President Chuck Maledden of the Niops Association. Ms. Zadok, I hope you'll forgive my rudeness, but what exactly do you mean, 'true heirs of the Star League'? I think I speak for everyone in the room when I say we've never heard of 'Clan Blood Spirit'." He asked, brow furrowing more deeply by the moment as he tried to puzzle out her remarks. Home? When was the Star League's home ever out here in the dark? Clan? What the devil is she talking about?
Ashanti did not shift in her stance, which for all her efforts to look relaxed was rigid and unyielding. Her words came even and almost strident in tone, though she softened them a bit when she twisted her lips into a smile...or a sneer, perhaps.
"Neg, you would not have heard of my Clan, Imperator," she replied as she regarded the toga-clad man with arched eyebrow and penetrating gaze. "As surely as the only Hegemony I know was destroyed long ago, at the hands of the traitor Amaris and the selfish and greedy Successor Lords." Her smile widened, flashing brilliant, perfect teeth at Marius. "Something I believe each of you in this room know something about, quiaff?"
At that, the woman returned her gaze to the Magestrix, her expression softening as did her words. "My people departed the Inner Sphere when the great Star League fell, rather than watch the Successor Lords destroy everything in their venal lust for power. But we have always known that we were destined to return when the time was right. And so we have. We are the Children of Kerensky. The legacy of the Royal Black Watch."
Ashanti regarded each of the gathered Periphery leaders in turn, even sparing a lingering glance on Niops' Vice President Maleddin. "We no longer wish to live in exile among the stars, but to return to the worlds of our ancestors. We want to return home."
Janice and her party had just entered the room and took her spot. Eyes watched her as she was pushed across the floor towards the Concordate's area. She had taken long pains to make sure that she was presentable, yet knew that her weakness shown through. She waited as the others to introduce themselves.
She already knew about the Cappellan delegation waiting in the outer hall and was glad that the Magistrix decided at this time to keep them out. This was periphery business, for too many years the "Great Houses" of the Inner Sphere looked down on us and now when they sniff that there is growth and maybe concern they come demanding a seat at the table.
She knew that the Marian's would be at the table and was glad to see that Niops had sent a delegate. It was sad that the Illyrian's, Lothian's and Circiusian's had not chosen to attend. We would need to send speakers to them as soon as able to try to build our bridge.
The one she did not know was this stranger dressed so scantly. Did the Magistrix know of another small realm that had sent a representative? Hum, maybe this lady was from Herotitus, things there were loose to say the least. Maybe a pirate band from Astrokasy, the women was trying to come across as a pirate.
Janice held herself to allow the lady to speak, everyone here knew the realm she was from; but only the Magistrix, knew what was to be announced this day.
Quote from: tassa_kay on April 17, 2014, 02:07:58 AM
"Magestrix Centrella, I wish to thank you for allowing me to speak at this momentous conclave, and I also wish to apologize for the mystery surrounding my arrival in your capital. But after you hear what I have to say, I think that you will agree that secrecy at this time is paramount."
"I am Ashanti Zadok, and I bring you greetings from Clan Blood Spirit. We are the true heirs of the Star League, and we have come home."
What, what craziness is this. The hands on her shoulder tighten for a moment and she looked up at her escort in confusion. He smirked and spoke quietly, "Some crazy from the outer realms. Let us watch and listen."
The Marian's where quick to react, Janice had really no experience with them so took note of their actions.
Quote from: Arkansas Warrior on April 17, 2014, 02:14:50 AM
"I am Marius O'Reilly, Imperator of the Marian Hegemony. To expedite things a bit, I'll introduce my neighbor here" he said, turning to the small man in the next seat "This is Vice President Chuck Maledden of the Niops Association. Ms. Zadok, I hope you'll forgive my rudeness, but what exactly do you mean, 'true heirs of the Star League'? I think I speak for everyone in the room when I say we've never heard of 'Clan Blood Spirit'." He asked, brow furrowing more deeply by the moment as he tried to puzzle out her remarks.
All eyes continued to watch the Clanner person.
Clanner the word made Julian smirk, what a dumb name.
Quote from: tassa_kay on April 17, 2014, 03:26:44 AM
"Neg, you would not have heard of my Clan, Imperator. As surely as the only Hegemony I know was destroyed long ago, at the hands of the traitor Amaris and the selfish and greedy Successor Lords."
She smiled, "Something I believe each of you in this room know something about, quiaff?"
She turned towards the Magestrix, "My people departed the Inner Sphere when the great Star League fell, rather than watch the Successor Lords destroy everything in their venal lust for power. But we have always known that we were destined to return when the time was right. And so we have. We are the Children of Kerensky. The legacy of the Royal Black Watch."
She looked around the room, stopping at the Niops table. "We no longer wish to live in exile among the stars, but to return to the worlds of our ancestors. We want to return home."
Wow, this lady is truly crazy! Janice's first thought was that the woman was checking out most of the men in the room. Her next thought was that this was really a crazy person, but diplomacy came in effect and she knew that if there was any sort of truth here the implications would be mind boggling. She leaned back and conferred with her escort, "Ii think we should wait to see what is happening here. The Magistrix, if she knew about this has secrets she is holding from us. I thought ours was the only secret mission revealed today. Many cards are in play."
The man nodded and furrowed his brow, "I have been here a long time. I thought I was pretty close with the Magistracy Intelligence Ministry, but not a bit of this have I heard even a hint of. Let's continue to wait for the moment."
The Taurian's continued in their silence to watch the show.
Crimson, Canopus IV
January 30th, 3040
The negotiations were continuing apace. There were of course bones of contention. The Taurians were pushing a new pan-periphery military force, the Marshals. The Marian and Niopsian representative were worried that too much of their national militaries would be drawn off into this force, leaving them vulnerable to pirates. There was, however, broad agreement that the larger powers were too disjointed and widely spread to be effective working together in the short term. For this reason, there had been a lot of talking of making protectorates ("provincias" to use Marius's own term) of the smaller states. Such a nice way of saying "conquering them" Marius thought. Some days, the discussions broke down into pair groups. Marius had already had a tremendously productive agreement with Janice Calderon to cooperate on the construction of a new hovercraft. Today he was paying a call on the Niopsian Vice President, while the Concordat and Magistracy representatives hashed out boundaries in the region between their states, where they'd be setting up their respective protectorates.
Palace of the Magestrix
Crimson, Canopus IV
31 January, 3040
Magestrix Emma Centrella looked around the conference table at each of the attendees of the summit, and she did not bother repressing a contented smile as she beheld each Periphery leader as they spoke amongst themselves. Never in her life had she visualized a time when such a disparate group of individuals would sit down in the same room and work together. Even her mother, who despite her own faults as a leader was unquestionably devoted to the Magistracy and to the Periphery as a whole, could never have dreamed of this day. While she was proud of her contribution to such an august gathering, at this particular moment, Emma felt humbled.
"Honored leaders and representatives, we have already accomplished so much over the past few weeks. I think that perhaps it is time to take an accounting of what we have reached a consensus on thus far, and to discuss any bones of contention collectively. I know many of you must be anxious to return to your realms and to your people, and I do not wish any of you to return unsatisfied."
Emma stood from her seat, and activated the holoprojector set into the middle of the expansive conference table. As she did so, a luminescent and highly-detailed representation of the Periphery swirled to life before their eyes. The Inner Sphere, though it loomed large in the middle of the hologram, was kept blurry and indistinct...a deliberate choice by the Magestrix.
"I believe the first matter that should be discussed is the creation of the Marshals, as proposed by the Calderons." Emma's steely-grey eyes moved to the Taurian delegation, where Janice Calderon and her party sat. "What exactly do you propose?"
Palace of the Magestrix
Crimson, Canopus IV
31 January, 3040
"Magistrix, the Concordate believes highly in this endeavor and has made many sacrifices to see this come forth," Janice felt her escort stiffen behind her; "we believe that it is important to add to the security of our realms as a whole and the strength of this treaty to form a separate policing service.
As documented in the folders before you, what we propose is a Marshals Service that would be responsible for enforcing treaty laws; including, but not limited to acting as new colony security. The service would also have the authority to investigate and apprehend treaty fugitives, it would provide protection for the treaty officials, and manage assets for new colonies, until they are declared stable, plus this service would collect and control any duties or fines seized from treaty violators.
They would be answerable only to the governing body of the treaty and would be considered senior in any inner realm situation.
Most of the service force shall be scattered throughout the treaty area to perform their duties and will act with planetary militia if the need arises for defense. Only be about 2 or 3 mixed regiments would be a standing force and they would be deployed as needed to protect the treaty signatures or assist in holding new territory.
To form this force we ask that each realm signing this treaty help with sending a set group of their own militia and military, the Taurians have already decided that about a regiment of battlemechs shall be given over with accompanying armor and infantry assents. Details are again in your folders."
Lastly, to show our total commitment to this endeavor we put forward as Director of the Marshals Service, Edward Calderon, he will answer any further question you have." With that she sat back exhausted.
The man behind her stepped forward and viewed the leaders before him.
Marius nodded, So that's who he is. The official Taurian line was that he perished in a crash years ago. A good choice, one none of us have reason to quibble with he thought. He rose and inclined his head to Edward. "I had wondered who the mystery man at Lady Calderon's side was. Good to see that rumors of your demise were greatly exaggerated. While my nation is not so wealthy or powerful as the Concordat, we will not shirk our responsibility to this alliance. I had recently been raising additional infantry forces for the Praetorian Guard Auxilia Legio, but I will instead be assigning these thousand infantrymen as the initial Marian contribution to the Marshals Service. May they serve us well."
(OOC: 4FP of Infantry, to put it in game terms.)
Emma kept her expression carefully neutral as Sam Calderon identified himself before the delegates. Thought dead even to her, she covered her surprise at his revealing himself now well, the result of a lifetime of military discipline and political training. She did not interrupt Janice as she spoke, nor Marius as he addressed the Taurian scion directly. Patience was a virtue, after all.
"Lord Calderon, allow me to welcome you formally to this conclave. And allow me to second Imperator O'Reilly's sentiments that we are most pleased to see you hale and hearty. Your presence here and now is surely a boon to us all."
With that, the Magestrix switched gears slightly. "I would gladly throw my support behind your appointment as Director of the Colonial Marshals, with one caveat: that you forswear any claim to your noble titles and privileges within the Taurian Concordat for the duration of your appointment. I hope you understand the potential dangers of having such a conflict of interest for the holder of such an unprecedented office."
After giving that a moment to sink in, and for herself to regard Sam with carefully-hidden scrutiny, Emma spoke again. "I have also consulted with my people regarding the Canopian contribution to the Marshals, and I have reached an accord with some of the mercenary commands. Harcourt's Destructors, Harcourt's Regulars, and Forbes' Cavaliers stand ready to join the ranks of the Marshals on our behalf. They will be accompanied by the Canopian Highlanders, who are honored to stand at the sides of our Periphery brethren in this undertaking."
(In game terms, 16.5 FP of Canopian troops and equipment.)
"I do have one concern, Lord Calderon...or, if all gathered here are agreeable to your appointment, Force Marshal Calderon?" Emma smiled at that before she continued. "Regarding the seniority of the Marshals. I cannot speak for my esteemed colleagues of the Concordat or the Hegemony, of course, but I am concerned at the Marshals having seniority over local forces. Would this be restricted to treaty provisions? Because there are elements of the MAF that may take exception to an untested military force stepping on their toes, so to speak, and I have no wish to upset my military commanders, not to mention my own citizenry, without some assurances in place that the Marshals won't be subverting their own authority."
Magistrix, long ago when it was decided by my family, that there was a need for a mutual treaty amongst the realms of the periphery and that the only way to do so was for a high level dignitary to be able to do so personally and in secret. I knew that doing so would most likely remove me from the leadership of my home realm. I felt than as I feel now that the periphery must stand united against all aggressors, I am honored to be called to lead this joint force and will abide by the wishes you set forth.
As for the Marshals acting senior in matter of this treaty; we now enter a time where, while it is important to protect one's own interest, does it not seem prudent that we must look to the larger picture. We stand at the sidelines as others play their games, but soon, as proven by history; these others will turn to hunt us down. We shall fall if divided as has happened before. There cannot be inter-unit bickering if the time comes for decisive action and that time does come nearer each day.
To state that these Marshals are untested, are not your Highlanders tested; they are one of the oldest units in your service. Did they not defend Luxen for a year against League units? To them the Taurians do add the 1st Taurian Lanciers with support elements; this unit specializes in combined combat of mech and armor. The Marians Legionnaires are noted for their dedication to duty and tenacity in battle, if that not why two other realms do not sit at this conference.
We are tested; every citizen of the periphery is tested each day that they live in the shadow of the "Great Houses" waiting for them to once more take our freedom. Now is the time for us to be true; true to the cause of a strong periphery made united with this treaty and able to put aside petty ego and pride for security, freedom, and independence.
I stand committed to insure that every ruler, soldier, and citizen abides by this treaty and stands strong in the face of every adversary. That is a commitment that each of you must make here this day for your people and then lead them by example, the Marshals will be a force to insure that no one slacks and no one looks out only for themselves.
Emma didn't interrupt Sam as he gave the speech that would determine the fate of his plan. She simply listened attentively as he outlined his plans and responded to her points, and gave the occasional nod of understanding or acknowledgment. The man was clearly prepared for this. After a few minutes, he concluded his speech, and the Magestrix smiled widely.
"I find myself quite impressed by your gift for the spoken word, Lord Calderon, and I find myself in agreement with most of your points. I simply worry that in forming a military force of such broad authority, we might offend the sensibilities of those who chose the Periphery to escape such things. And that's not even taking into account the long and sordid history the Periphery has with a similar endeavor, the Star League Defense Force. So we must all take care to enter into this arrangement with that in mind."
Sweeping the room with her steel-grey eyes, the Magestrix rose. "I think perhaps it is time for us to vote on this treaty."
Janice Calderon clears her throat and speaks, "The Taurian Concordate is glad to finally be able to welcome our brother back from the dead, but with that being said I would like to point out to those gathered and the Director of the Marshals force; that for now, I am the delegate for the Concordate to this assembly. Our force that we will add to the Marshals is the Red Chasseurs, a veteran unit that has been part of our realms force for many years."
Edward bows his head to the assembled rulers and moves to a side table to observe, once there he opens a computer screen and madly starts checking stats on units assigned to the Marshals and ordering movement.
"Next, I agree with the Magistrix that this vote has to happen, the Taurian Concordate votes yes to the Treaty Accords"
Emma Centrella nods as Janice Calderon casts her vote, and with that, the younger woman stood to her feet. A glance was spared to the Canopian entourage that accompanied her, and her steel-grey eyes fixed for a moment on the most important (to her, anyway) of them all: Nicholas Ramilie, commander of one of her foremost mercenary regiments and, unknown to most in the room, her husband and father to her daughters Danai and Naomi. The ruggedly-handsome man nodded to her once, and Emma returned his nod almost imperceptibly as she returned her attention to the gathered Periphery leaders.
"The Magistracy of Canopus votes yes to the treaty accords. Furthermore, I'd like to suggest a name for this alliance, unless any among you have ideas in that regard. The Periphery Pact. Simple and effective, as it should be."
The Marian Imperator nodded his assent. "Fine by me."
The Niopsian representative shrugged, smiling at the rest of the delegates. "The terms of the treaty are the important part to Niops. We'll take whatever name everyone else likes."
Emma smiled as the Niopsian cast his vote, and swept the room with her steel-grey eyes, a hallmark of the Centrella bloodlines. Though she masked it well, as only a lifetime of diplomatic training would allow one to do, Emma felt a wave of powerful emotion sweep through her. It was done. The Periphery realms would stand side-by-side in a new era of cooperation, and she was honored and humbled to have helped make that happen.
"And with that, the Periphery Pact is born. Allow me this brief moment to thank all of you for your contributions toward a better future for all of our peoples, a future of freedom and security against a harsh and often unforgiving universe. There are still details to be worked out, of course, but with the signing of this treaty...as the saying goes, the hard part is over. Now it is up to all of us to ensure that this dream comes to fruition."
Pausing for a moment, Emma continued. "I suggest that we adjourn for a few days to let the dust settle, and it would be my honor if you all would join me in a celebration of this momentous occasion. The Magistracy will be holding a reception here in the Palace in three days' time. I hope that you will all be able to join me in a toast to our new Periphery Pact!"
September
Taurus
After a month the DC-jumpship 'ivory crane' jumped to Taurus and the Ambassador Taisuke and Miss Akiyama made it to the surface via dropship. The ambassador had with him a small present for, whoever will welcome them.
Members of the Pleiades Hussars regiment stood at attention as Protector Thomas Calderon waited for the shuttle doors to open.
The Ambassador left the shuttle, wearing formal traditional clothing that marked his rank; in his hands he held a small ivory bull statue. He is an old man with a proud and stoic face while at his side a middle aged woman in a beautiful kimono was going. Uncommonly she had a hard facial gesture, short hair and wore no sign of makeup.
The two walked calmly straight to the Protector and with a fair amount of distance some servants followed. As the ambassador and the representative bowed down in front of the Protector, the servants throw themselves to the ground. "Protector of the Realm, it is an honor to be greeted by you personally, " said Taisuke while Akiyama nodded corroborative. " May we present you a small gift to honor your invitation?" He held the statue in front of him. It was a beautiful work indeed; the small ivory bull was carved by a master of its art and standing on a socket of ivory. Made from a whole part it got gold added for highlighting and further decoration. On the bulls head for instance, a second golden pair of horns and 3 stars wear added, to resemble the emblem of the realm.
Thomas bowed slightly as he accepted the gift. He turned it in his hands and admired the craftsmanship, Holding it back out he said, "Honored guests this is exquisite, you have given us too much. We are humbled by your gift and should refuse your generosity; but I know of you will only insist so only with grace do I accept this for the Taurian people. We are honored to have received this from the Coordinator and the Combine. It will be placed in a central place for all to admire."
Then he reached back and took a small package from an attendant, carefully removing the wrap around it, with both hands he presented the Ambassador a small leather book with golden lettering, it looked old and slightly worn, "Most honored guest, we welcome you to the Taurian Concordat. This is not the first time that the Draconis Combine has sent its representatives to our realm, but we feel it has been too long between visits. Please accept this token of our appreciation, it is "Œuvres completes, Tome I, Parution en Mars 2571" a collection of works from Pierre de Ronsard. The printer is Le Cercle de la Pléiade an ancient company started on earth, now publishing from Taurus. Pierre de Ronsard was one of three 16th-century French Renaissance poets collectively known as La Pléiade.
"You are right in our insisting on behalf of the present, yet we are most honored and surprised to receive this book from you. After all it is you who has the trouble of having us as his guests. "Another time the two bowed down and their servants haven't raised heir heads since the beginning. " Formal tradition asks me to refuse such a token, yet we are appreciating it so much as it is such an generous gift and so thoughtful, considering all recent behalf's the Draconis Combine has contacted the Taurian Concordat. I will ensure personally that it reaches the hands of our Coordinator. " Then the two raised their heads again and Akiyama spoke on " We hope we did not let you wait to long and hope that we meet your expectations. While I am here to introduce, discuss and sign any agreements for the Carritative Program, Ambassador Taisuke has allowance to answer any political question and may also be your negotiator in any other recent matter. "
"We are glad to hear that there is much to talk about," With that the group of officials entered the awaiting limousines and sped off to undisclosed locations
FWL Embassy
Crimson, Canopus IV
Shortly after the beginning of the Canopian invasion of the FWL.
After hearing the news, Ambassador Jiltanith McIntyre, knew it was up to her to try and sort out this mess before it escalated any further. Why the Magistrix would launch such an ill advised foreign adventure had her perplexed. According to SAFE, the Magistry only had 12 mech regiments, and Jiltanith knew for a fact that the FWL had twice that in the nearby Andurien region alone following the Andurien Succession Crisis. The invasion was something more typical of Emma's deposed mother. There had to be something else going on. Had the Marian's secretly usurped the throne?
At first she'd thought that her assignment to this post was nothing short of exile, but the more time she spent on Crimson the more she came to like and respect the place. She didn't want to see this escalate further. If things progressed further there might not be a free Magistry, and while she was loyal to her country she didn't want to see what in here opinion was the most civilized periphery nation destroyed. Unfortunately that decision wasn't up to her, and there were still plenty of folks at home who thought the Magistry needed punished for their recent interference with the Andurien crisis.
She couldn't avert further conflict by herself though, it was time to see who if anyone in the Magistry government would give peace a chance.
Federated Suns Embassy
Crimson, Canopus IV
a couple days after the attacks on the FWL
Quite a few people were wondering what had gotten into everyone's drinking water in the last few months? Angela Summers, the Sun's newly appointed rep to the Magistracy had only recently arrived on world when things had started to go up in flames first in one region , then another, then the Capellan invasion.
Walking over to the window of her office she looked out past the embassy grounds at the city around them, this should be a plum posting, she'd been over joyed when she was given the assignment, even if it was because the Ministry's first pick had gotten pregnant and taken extended leave.
Now, well things were a lot more complicated, but she still had a job to do which meant she needed to talk to the get talking with someone in the government and not just them. First she arranged for a request for a meeting with a representative of the Magistrix as soon as was possible, followed by another to another foreign embassy here on Crimson.
The second one got a rather started look from her aid and she had to reassure him it wasn't a joke and to deliver the request for a chat to the FWL's ambassador before she shooed him out of her office.
Throne Room, Palace of the Magestrix
Crimson, Canopus IV
Now
In the early hours of the evening, Jiltanith McIntyre was shown into the Canopian throne room by a pair of well-armed royal guards. A few moments later, from another door, Angela Summers was also admitted to the opulent room, again with blue-garbed guards ushering her in with all due diligence to her personal security. The Marik and Davion ambassadors were led to the end of the turquoise-tiled path that ran from the massive double doors of the entrance to the Canopian throne itself, upon which Magestrix Emma Centrella sat with an expression kept carefully neutral and even.
The two pairs of guards took up station to either side of Emma, and the Magestrix looked down at her guests with steel-grey eyes that gave away nothing. "Ambassador Summers, Ambassador McIntyre. I know why both of you have petitioned me for an audience, so I have taken it upon myself to, as they say, kill two birds with one stone and grant you both a personal audience. So let's talk."
Quote from: tassa_kay on June 13, 2014, 01:43:43 AM
Throne Room, Palace of the Magestrix
Crimson, Canopus IV
Now
In the early hours of the evening, Jiltanith McIntyre was shown into the Canopian throne room by a pair of well-armed royal guards. A few moments later, from another door, Angela Summers was also admitted to the opulent room, again with blue-garbed guards ushering her in with all due diligence to her personal security. The Marik and Davion ambassadors were led to the end of the turquoise-tiled path that ran from the massive double doors of the entrance to the Canopian throne itself, upon which Magestrix Emma Centrella sat with an expression kept carefully neutral and even.
The two pairs of guards took up station to either side of Emma, and the Magestrix looked down at her guests with steel-grey eyes that gave away nothing. "Ambassador Summers, Ambassador McIntyre. I know why both of you have petitioned me for an audience, so I have taken it upon myself to, as they say, kill two birds with one stone and grant you both a personal audience. So let's talk."
"Magestrix, I'm here to stop a war before it engulfs either of our nations any further. Your unprovoked attack has us perplexed and concerned. Usually nations attempt diplomacy before resorting to open warfare. We have no understanding for why you launched your offensive let alone what goals you hope to accomplish. We both know any short term gains you have made will be only fleeting. Both sides have much more to lose then gain in this exchange. I, and my government, wish to end this before any more lives are lost, but it is not up to us alone. It takes two willing parties for diplomacy to work."
Edit: I just noticed your(TK) post in the INN, so this was originally posted without knowledge of it.
Ambassador Summers waited and listened carefully as her FWL counterpart spoke before bowing her head respectfully "Thank you for seeing us Magestrix, though under such circumstances sadly. I understand you have already stated the forces involved are not what they have claimed to be, that is actually MAF units or acting under your orders to begin with. If that is the case then the Suns would suggest investigating this before the situation escalates, on either side. A False Flag operation by a third party is not as inconceivable as most would, after all if you recall the attack on NAIS during the waning days of the 4th SW, a unit disguised as perfect clone of the Death Commandos to misdirect blame from the true perpetrators ."
Nodding to her counter part "I was discussing earlier with my colleague that the League's sudden jumping into the situation between our Lyrans partners and the Federation was being seen as perhaps as the beginning of a aggressive move against the Periphery by her government. For you to then attack the League would be an act of madness and we do not believe that of you, you've lead your people too well and if Captain-General Marik is true to his wishes for peace we need to work to defuse the situation and find out who the true instigators are?"
Emma inclined her head first to McIntyre, her expression carefully kept neutral and poised. "As you so eloquently stated just now, it would be madness for me to authorize any sort of offensive action against the Free Worlds League, especially given the size of the FWLM forces I know you have posted in the interstellar vicinity. Understandable, given the events in Andurien, but it is precisely because of Andurien that I have gone out of my way to rectify the damage that my mother helped to cause your realm. And for whatever it is worth to you, Lady McIntyre, I give you my word of honor that I would never do something so antagonistic or self-destructive."
Then, Emma turned to Ambassador Summers, and nodded to the other woman. "And your words show your inherent wisdom, Ambassador, and have given me an idea as to how to help defuse this situation in a way that, it is my sincerest hope, will satisfy all parties involved. I propose that you serve as a neutral mediator, and I will provide you with evidence that will demonstrate that not a single one of the units that were allegedly involved in this ill-conceived 'invasion' were and are nowhere near the worlds which have been attacked by these perfidious invaders."
Finally, she turned back to McIntyre, her grey eyes meeting the other woman's with characteristic Centrella intensity. "Would this be acceptable to you as a first step, Lady McIntyre?"
That would be acceptable as a first step Magestrix, especially if you have verifiable proof. You of course would not object if we send forces to liberate our own worlds in the meantime. Unlike the Lyrans, we do not like leaving our citizen's fates in the hands of others. Even more so when they are unknown forces.
"You really couldn't resist a cheap shot there?" Angela lamented towards the League Rep shaking her head at the reference to the Lyrans "I rather doubt you evicting the invaders will be an issue if as the Magestrix says they're not her people. Now since we all know we all spy on one another and that sort of thing we begin by getting our files on each other's military units supposedly involved in this so we can begin verifying if said units are where they should be and not in League space? " turning back to Emma she "We will need to compare notes with your command to make sure we're working with a correct cast before we can begin to send a joint investigation team to verify the status of the units in question ."
Emma nodded at Angela's words, her expression giving away nothing but her mind deep in thought as she pondered the situation before her. "You're right, Ambassador Summers, and despite my own misgivings about giving the Mariks access to the MAF's deployments, I am forced to acknowledge the fact that the FWLM is far superior to my own nation's military and would enjoy precious little more advantage with such knowledge in hand than they'd have without it. More to the point, I wish to get to the bottom of this mess so that we can get back to what passes for normalcy in this corner of space."
With that, her grey gaze focused on Ambassador McIntyre sharply. "However, as the saying goes, you have to give a little to get a little. If I am going to grant you access to such sensitive information, I will ask for two things in return. First, I would ask that you grant my people access to the same information for all FWLM units posted along the border with my Magistracy. And second, and perhaps most importantly, I would like to reaffirm our peaceful relations with a more formal treaty in place."
Emma stood from her throne, and extended her exquisitely-manicured hand to McIntyre. "Do we have a deal, Ambassador?"
Undisclosed Location
Six Days Ago
The room was lit by the most hellish of lights, crimson illuminating the consoles and chairs where various technicians were hard at work at their stations. But other than the hum of machinery and technology forming an almost-soothing background noise of beeps and whines, it was as silent as death in the room. None of the technicians spoke a word, and neither did the woman who stood amidst it all.
The woman was as beautiful as she was silent, scarlet hair pulled back in a severe bun and clad in a smart, dark pantsuit devoid of any rank or other identifying markers. Not that she needed such, of course; there wasn't a man or woman in this room who didn't know who she was. Contessa Mercer, the head of the Magistracy Intelligence Ministry, and one of the most dangerous women in Canopian space, if not the entire Periphery. And her expression was neutral, almost passive, as her eyes observed what was before her.
Illuminated by light-blue glowlights was a massive tank, within which was suspended a single figure. The figure was naked and very obviously female, with long black hair that undulated around her as she rested in peaceful, dreaming repose. Other than a few miniscule movements, the woman was motionless, lost in unconsciousness.
Mercer's own inscrutable thoughts were interrupted as bright, white light spilled into the room, and she turned to see that a figure stood in the now-open doorway to the hidden chamber. A functionary, she noted, no doubt with news that required her personal attention. She beckoned the man forward, and as he approached, he handed her a datapad without fanfare and stood at military-precision attention.
After reading the contents of the datapad for a few moment, Mercer looked up without really seeing the man before her. "It is time, then." Turning to one of the workstations, she spoke again. "Wake her up."
Secret Space facility
Unknown Sector
Many jumpships entered the system and gave all the right codes, they were checked and triple checked.
He was the first to step foot into this piece of history. At the airlock was met by an unexpected reception party.
"What are you two doing here?"
"We can't let you do this."
"What do you mean, this has to happen. For the good of our realm and hell even freedom from those tyrants. We all agreed."
"Yes, this has to happen, but YOU can't be the one."
"No, I am the most logical choice. It makes total sense. It surly can't be you?"
"No not me either, we talked more while you were in transit and she has volunteered. We all agreed, here the message from them if you wish to read it. You are needed here to protect us from the threats within. She will fight this fight out there."
"Umm, I was ready for this to go down this way, but I can see the logic. He is crazy and we have to make it through the coming storm."
He turned to the uniformed women, and embraced her, "I will miss you and be jealous of your coming adventure. Come home to us."
"Young one I remember playing with you as a child and watching as you grew into a leader. The path you took to get us here has been hard. Now I will take this small side journey. You build the family; maybe settle down like him. Watch over our homes and the next generation."
With that the two men reentered the shuttle and returned.
After all units were transferred, included unexpected loyalist, only one lone jumpship remained as this new group with another piece of the great game jumped out of the system after being dormant for so long.
In another part of the galaxy
"My love it is the only way."
"No, I will stay but they can go. My people will protect them."
"They need a parent, yet so does my realm. I have sent my own best men to guard them, but all of you must leave. If we did not still have such loyal friends than we would have never heard of this and all would be lost. There will be allies there wait for you. I never really wanted to play in the great game, but it is my duty. I will continue to communicate with you as long as I am able. Please my love protect our charge and I will see you in the morrow."
With that the connection broke and tears from both these star crossed lovers, separated by space and politics freely flowed.
1.October 3042
Exactly one year, after JADE-Puplic and FRN going online for the first time, something moved again on the communication market.
(http://i1099.photobucket.com/albums/g387/Altrak/output_rzNZ76_zps861ee0d3.gif) (http://s1099.photobucket.com/user/Altrak/media/output_rzNZ76_zps861ee0d3.gif.html)
Canopus
The Periphery Pact Members were quite under fire, also they didn't manage to become present in the ISDF, mostly due to their own faults. Yet the representative of the ARAR, Amilcar Florez-Castro was traveling between Martian Hegemony and Lothian Palantine. Being a probatory member didn't help. The Coordinator anouncing the "Realm of the Dragon" also not, asking himself what else President Neil Avellar had agreed on... Yet, the ARAR is seeing much improvements, be it on the civilian, social-economic or military part. He heard rumors about a carrier named "RNS-Alpheratz" that was currently headed home.
Now he entered the Magistracies Palace. To talk to them about the defensive strategy. At least he hadn't to travel towards Taurus, as the Kurita-Calderon family would take care of that. They must find a way to hold of the clans longer, so the ISDF and the PACT could engage more effective counter-meassures.