(Stev i know you and bavid are doing something, but its not like you'll die doing it, so we can do this out of time for you) A meeting is called, to plan what to do when the Khan arrives for tribute. The earthworks and strengthening of the fortifications is already underway, and Phyrica has allowed its gates to be opened for the Draconis Houseguard. Town leaders have remained relatively absent, but the troops are already striking up fast friendships in town with bakers, cobblers and the other skilled tradesmen. Some of the younger men in town have even asked about joining up, admiring the fine combat field uniforms and weapons the men at arms carry, and of course, the mechs are a constant site of admiration

Several folk have set up easels on the walls and have been working on various paintings through different stages of daylight.

Stev wanders the wall closest to the fortifications, the captains nearby. He looks at some of the paintings, pointing out one in particular he likes that profiles the Driade near a group of soldiers digging trenches.

“Hey Chapman, think this would look good on the wall of the officers mess?”

“I was going to buy it if you’re not!” He calls back, throwing another shovel full of dirt over his shoulder

“I’ll make it a gift!”

Stev laughs as he approaches the painter and asks to buy it once it is finished.

“Have it taken to that soldier there, please.” and he points to Chapman.

After the interaction, he heads towards the group of milling youths.

(I know Kayden and daitrij will be discussing plans along with the regent and you)

Stepping off of his far less impressive truck, Kay waves the driver off to go assist with the movement of other planning materials and to help with the fortifications. He looks tired, he'd heard about the death of Carmen and Eli and did not take it well. But there was a job to do, so that's where his focus is now. He hits his compad to radio his officers. <<Preliminary stuff, help with the fortifications, find primary sites for a QRF. I want an LZ cleared out for our helos in a concealed position that's close enough to be on our position within 5 minutes. Start taking men and vehicles to serve as a QRF, once I get an idea of the area we'll be meeting I'll get you grids for tentative OPs.>> He starts looking over the walls to get a sense of the terrain, what can and can't move through it, where the dead space is, and where he can block off main avenues of approach

Stev watches the truck pull up and the soldiers start disembarking. He stands back as the person he decides is in charge starts talking into their comm.

After taking in the area, he notices he's being watched. Turning to see the man, he approaches Stev with an outstretched hand "How's it going? I'm Kayden. You must be with the Draconis guys right?"

Stev shakes Kayden’s hand. “Stev. You with the Protectorate? Looking forward to our little meeting a a couple of days with this khan. Just getting ready if it all goes sideways, though with the help your guys are providing we might have time for a game of cards long before the discussion starts.”

"You and me both Stev, I have no idea what to expect, so I want to plan for everything I can in the meantime. Right now I'm looking at a ton of light infantry with AT weapons and long range surveillance optics, a couple of light helicopters, some gun trucks, some rocket trucks, and a few aerofliers that can be scrambled. Judging by your big ass mechs, I assume you're pretty heavy focused?"

“Most of what we bring to the fight is soldiers. The big mech and a couple of smaller models is about all we can field at the moment, so I figured they would be held in reserve, sort of a surprise once the first rockets had flown and they were committed. Having some air support and mobile rocket platforms will give us the ability to adapt to changes in strategy on the fly.”

"That's true, I've been training my guys as scouts as well. I wanna try and get them nice and set up in some observation posts as well. They can give us some early warning of when they're coming, or if they bring any extra friends. And if shit starts going down, they can give locations of enemy positions for the air support, your mechs, or any artillery if you got it. Hopefully, this Khan is willing to try and work something out though." "God I hope shit doesn't go bad."

“If I can get us all paid without having to fire a shot, I’m more than willing to take that option. Though, if it does go down, the Driade there,” and he points to the mobile command tank, “will probably be the safest place to get the Regent and any other diplomats to. I’ve got them throwing up a dirt wall to deflect rockets and leaving a safe path that we can cover with gunfire once we’re through. Your scouts any good with long range rifles? We might be able to take out their command structure, or even artillery support, if they can get some shots off.”

"They are, I've trained them myself on that. I'd like them to not compromise their positions unless they need to. But if they find priority targets like that, then they'll take the shots. I also want to set up some on overwatch of the meeting itself, give some coving fire if we need to pull people back to that tank. Depending on the field they choose to have the meeting, there's a lot we can work with, but there's also a lot the Khan can work with, they've been here before, we haven't. So it's gonna take some time to figure out."

Daitrij packs her stuff and gets ready to leave. She wears her regular clothes and the coat as the outer layer, so the dress stays clean for the meeting. She heard of an accident, where a cargo lighter crashed close to Phyrica, costing three Mytikan citizens their lives. So on her way to the governmental area, she buys three bunches of flowers and some medical supplies. She takes the first lighter to Phyrica, together with some delegates and presumably some materials that Kay ordered. Once they get closer to Phyrica she looks out and is shocked. "This should be some peaceful talks. That out there looks like we are going to wage some large scale war. That won't really help us in the talks. But I am in no position to decide on such topics. I will give my best during the negotiations so we get a peaceful outcome." As the lighter gets closer to the landing zone, Daitrij can already see the crash site. And she sees Kay talking with some stranger. Daitrij is one of the first to leave the ship. And she walks straight towards the crash site, which is picked empty of all the valuable metals now. She kneels down and places the flowers. After a short prayer she gets up again. "Nobody will ever be forgotten." Now, after this is done, she walks over to Kay, waving at him from a distance. "Good morning, I see my friend did a good job." She turns to Stev with a smile on her face and reaches out with her hand to shake his. "Hello there. I am Hedwig Wilhelmova Sakharov. But you can call me Daitrij. Uhm, I did not see you before. Are you with us or with someone else?"

He waves to Daitrij as she approaches. "He did good, but it's not like there was much worth saving anyway. Though, considering what hit me, a small scar on my face is a miracle in and of itself."

Stev takes Daitrij’s hand. “Stev. Nice to meet you. I’m with the Knights of Draconis.”

Another craft lands, and the regent steps out with a few bodyguards before the armored lander quickly boosts back up into orbit (edited)

It seems as though all the playing pieces are assembled

“Well, as soon as the khan arrives we can set up somewhere to talk. Till then I guess we try to conceal some of the preparations we’ve made and make it look like less of a battlefield.”

He points at the command tank.

“That’s the fallback point if this all goes pear-shaped. It’ll be up to us to make sure the Regent and his diplomats get there safely.”

"Understood. Just based on our nature, my guys are gonna be spread pretty far out. Just make sure your guys get PID on their targets." He attempts to speak with the Regent to try and get a better idea of the situation. "Fuck, this can either go very well or very poorly. I just hope Daitrij is able to work something out. I have a bad feeling things will get very bad if shooting starts." "Regent, preparations are underway. For our awareness, any information you could give us on Artema? What they're like? What kind of gear they bring with them?" (edited)

(Artema isn't sending the khan directly. They don't know anything is up, but some token force will come try to collect the tribute, and will have to make its own decisions)

"We know nothing about them, but the people of this world don't seem to use much in the way of technology outside of the steam age on Earth. They've got the numbers though- maybe not at first, but if there is a mass mobilization we're going to have trouble pushing them back"

"We don't even have a battle fleet for any sort of bombardment anymore- not that it's gone well for those who came before me"

He cringes a bit, "I've heard the stories of Cyrus. I wish with all my heart I don't have to end up like him." "Yes, I would recommend we don't jump to mass annihilation if we can help it. That's why we have Daitrij here, we want to try and speak with them and come to an agreement. The less shots are fired, the less costly this will be for everyone. My men and the Draconis men are just here for security purposes, to make sure everyone plays fair."

Stev stands back from the discussion taking place, checking in with the captains.

“Trenches need to be raised a little more at the front, and leave that lane open. Secure all guns before the khans forces arrive but keep them handy. And throw a damn tarp or something over those mechs! We’re going for surprise, not flaunting our wares like common hussies!”

"Thank you Kay, put even more pressure on me. I told you I am no diplomat. Damn, all I have are my prewritten facts and some parts I could put together as a like some kind of talk but not like a full-blown speech. But maybe there is some time left to fix that. But this mess here? I mean it's like my words versus a thousand guns. I have to think about something clever. Maybe I should drug the whole Artema delegation, at least they'd have the day of their lives. Well, I won't be our lead diplomat anyway, right? Ognyena is this another test? Will I be our lead diplomat? Why does it feel like it will be that way?" She looks at Stev before turning to the regent. "Draconis? We pay a foreign military. All of this stinks. There is too much at stake, this needs to end peacefully." Still partially in thoughts she reaches out with her hand to shake the regent's. "Welcome regent. Uhm, well, I am not too fond of all the military here. I mean who knows who'll get here to collect. I guess we all need to talk about how this whole thing should be orchestrated. But if I could add one thing. As soon as we know what path they are taking I would like a small group of delegates to walk towards them and greet them before they roll into this. I mean, if I would have to go somewhere to collect something, I would turn on my heels and leave should I see something like this here. And that would just bring a whole new level of complication to the whole situation. With no real way of remotely communicating with the Khan or other city officials, we can't risk that whoever comes here just leaves without talking to us."

He knew she would be nervous, fuck he was nervous and his job wasn't nearly as important. But there's not much here could do to help that. He didn't know about the mercs, but his guys were here explicitly to give Daitrij a chance. "That's what my observation posts are for, concealed teams set along avenues of approach that can tell us where these guys are coming from. As for going out to meet them, I'd like to talk to them as far from Phyrica as we can. But, we can always take one of the trucks out to go meet them. They're not really threatening on their own. And they're fast, so we can quickly get to a meeting point regardless of where they come from."

Stev steps up to the group at this point. “Regent, all this is for if talks go bad. Meeting out of sight of the preparations works for me.”

Daitrij sighs and thinks for a bit. "The idea with the truck sounds good, right? I guess we should make sure that nobody sees those Draconis mercenaries. They are just here should Artema decide to take Phyrica by force. I don't think that the tribute collectors will be a large armed force. So we should be good meeting them a bit further out of the city with just some concealed troops protecting us. But I am not the one to decide if that's doable." "Thanks Kay for the idea. I don't want them to see the military we have here. But no matter what, I have never been in such a situation."

"We can have both. Concealed troops to give us early warning of where they are as well as cover us if things go bad. We can also have a detail with us to make sure they don't try and shoot us on sight or threaten us with force. Whatever makes you feel the safest and most comfortable with these guys is what I'll bring." "But I've never done this before. So this is all just guess work. I just don't want to get lit up the second we try and talk to them."

"Do we have any possibility to know what they are sending? I mean just a bit in advance. Should they seem too dangerous then a few men with the delegation to keep them from doing something stupid would be a good idea. As long as it is a reasonable amount of armed men."

(Is the speech in italics telepathy?)

(No. Only stuff they are thinking. No telepath present, I guess.)

(Ah, that’s cool. )

“Draconis has a stealth shuttle we can use to get an idea of what they are bringing, and Wescott and I can get out of our work clothes and into something more civilian if you want us there at the meet.”

Daitrij looks at Stev, raising an eyebrow and picturing him in civilian attire. "I mean, you are kinda part of us right now. And should it go badly and they are coming back, to retake Phyrica. Your men would be at risk as well. Uhm, well, okay, I guess? But don't shoot anyone first please. But that stealth shuttle is great. Couldn't we send in towards Artema right now? There shouldn't be too much traffic, so they should be able to identify them quite well, don't you think? " Daitrij turns away from Stev, just to turn back to him moments later. "So is there a way to drop a mech, a small one. Out of the sky, precisely to the ground? Precise as in within a radius of a hundred meters or so?"

(not even a shuttle can fit one, since they're all 50 tons of cargo space)

(draconis has a special dropcraft but its really big)

He raises an eyebrow, "Thinking about dropping a mech? I didn't know she had a flair for the dramatic." "The stealth shuttle sounds like a great idea, it'll give me a little more freedom of where to emplace my security element. Now, question of the day, what are we going to say to them? I assume we all didn't come out here to tell them 'fuck off this is mine now.' "

"Alright. No, I need to make a good impression. Maybe with something funny?" "Damn, Kay. Now you blew my whole speech." She starts to laugh and Kay could definitely sense a fake laugh. Until her face goes back to serious. Her hands are held behind her back and the left one begins to make movements that look like scrolling through some data. "No, I don't know. I do have things prepared, just in case nobody else does want to speak. I will be going through a few topics on after the other to get their reactions on them and give anybody else a chance to chip in. First of all, what do we want to achieve with all of this? Well, Phyrica should stay with us, nobody gets hurt and finally real negotiations with the Khan and its officials that could lead to them joining our alliance. In the beginning, we have to make it clear that Phyrica's move was on their behalf. I hope you, Mr. Draconis did not point some mech guns to their faces and pressured them to change sides. They most likely won't care anyway. That leads us to the next topic and the reason they are here. The tribute. The easiest way to handle that would be for Elysium to simply pay it. That should be no problem, since we can afford such expensive mercenaries, right Mr. Ferryman? But that could still lead to different problems. They could get greedy, thinking that we can afford more and simply demand more payment. Us paying a potential enemy would lead to funding their army instead of our defenses, this shouldn't matter as war is no option, but I know I have to include this. And of course, this could be a signal that leads to a double-edged sword. Namely, more and more villages that don't care who they belong to, would ask to get into our sphere of interest. Sounds, great at first but that would lead to a massive rise in payments to their former protectors. Something we can't afford."

Daitrij looks around to see if anyone is still listening. "What's next depends on who we meet. Some soldiers that just want to collect money? Well, they won't offer us any more options when it comes to further negotiations but we should make sure that they don't go back home and tell their Khan to just take back what belongs to them. And what do soldiers like you guys always want to see? Big metally things that are the pinnacle of warfare. That's why I asked about a mech drop. To be honest, seeing that would be overly dramatic, not a fan of it, but that doesn't matter if it gets the job done. Any other ideas are appreciated." She inhales audibly. "Should they be more civil, more important people of Artema, well then we could point out why an alliance would be prosperous for both of us. Of course, focusing on why it's great for them. I, uhm guessing I will come up with more but, uhm what do you guys think thus far? Every opinion that leads to a good outcome is highly appreciated. And tell me if I am totally wrong here." She is visibly relieved that she got through this in one piece without meshing up her notes.

“Sadly, the shuttle can’t drop a mech, but I like your strategy. We were trying to go for surprise, so having a mech drop from the sky would be damned surprising.”

“As for the rest, it’s your call. We’re here to protect Phyrica until your troops take over. And no, we didn’t shove a big mech gun in their faces... exactly. We did have the mechs with us when we had our chat and I pointed out they could possibly do lots of damage should the Phyrican officials want to fight. No shots were fired and I think the discussion was amicable.” (edited)

Daitrij sighs. "I guess that counts as semi-peacefully. And I won't mention the semi in our talks."

Stev laughs.

Trying to get his bearing after Daitrij rolls through her ideas. "Not a diplomat my ass." "What about that mech suit we found? The engineers have been working on it since we dropped the parts off, and it's not too egregiously huge. If we want to impress them, one of us could always roll out in that." "As for the actual talks. The best I can offer is I'll try not to fuck it up?"

“My input would involve a big stick, so you probably don’t want to go with that suggestion.”

"Uhm, no. Kay, do you have any idea when that suit would be ready? And who is able to use that thing?"

"Just throwing out ideas,you wanted dramatic right? The kit had all the pieces, it just needed some assembly. And my brother taught me some stuff about how to fly the Thebes back in the day. So I imagine it can't be more complex than that."

"Now I am going to show him that I listen to what he tells me. "So Zeph showed you how to fly, well yeah I guess you can control something like a Mech suit as well. So you can use that suit then. So if the Regent is okay with the plan, let us summarize it real quick. Stev, you and your Draconis guys will scout those guys with your stealth shuttle. With that info Kay can position his men while getting that suit ready. And we will decide how many armed men join the delegation besides Stev and this Wescott. When the time is right we will drive towards them with the truck and have a nice short chat before escorting them to the negotiation tent. On the way and from the tent they should never get a good clear view of what was prepared here in Phyrica. And well, if needed we show them the Mech drop and the Mech suit. Does that sound like a plan?"

(So the plan so far is meet this delegation out in the woods, away from the city, and let them know the flag here has changed. We're now debating if backup should be there, and how the actual Arteman delegation is going to be approached?)

(oh you did it for me, thank you)

(If we're all in agreement, we can move on to it beginning)

(How should I go about explaining where I put my dudes? Because it kinda relies on me knowing the terrain, which I assume we scout out a location beforehand)

(well, once you know where they're coming from, youd be able to move people)

(Got it)

(or reposition them. They won't really be able to impede you from doing that)

(Yep, I'm good with that then)

(You're welcome Neko and I am ready.)

Two days pass, as the plans for war, or hopefully peace, continue. The stealth shuttle is loaded, and the delegation is spotted entering the nearby forest, on the last leg of their trip. They are about two hours out from Phyrica now, mostly delayed by the dense terrain. Three cargo trucks, escorted by an armored car, and ten motorbikes are making their way in a loose pack through the large game trail bisecting the forest.

Their posture is relaxed, bored even.

(Before I forget, the mech suit we found, in keeping with our light infantry focus, will be a specialist model with Morphic Silhouette Dampener, Active camo surface, HMG. Power: 5/5 Mass: 6/10)

(perfect!)

Images, patchy as they are, are relayed back to your command post near the city

(Alright, I'm actually going to give my guys the info in the correct way this time so I can be as detailed as possible, also this is the only way I know to get through a plan with detail and efficiency. So please bear with me.) Over the course of the last two days, Kay has been out to the potential meeting spot and studying the terrain to try and pick the best place for the meeting to take place, after receiving information on where the delegation is coming from, he decides the best place to intercept them to bring them to a meeting point would be the end of the game trail where the Artemans are cannalized and unable to mass their combat power on the interdiction team. Making a sketch of the area and templating positions, he returns to Phyrica and gathers his leaders for a brief, along with Daitrij and Stev if they want to show up. "Alright, morning guys. For those of you who don't know me, I'm Kayden Zayre. This is going to be your brief for how today's going to play out. Situation: Phyrica has made the decision to join the Elysium Protectorate. However, they still owe tribute to Artema. In order to prevent a protracted conflict with the city-state, an diplomatic envoy is being dispatched to intercept the tribute collectors and negotiate with them in a neutral space. Mission: The Elysium Protectorate Militia, augmented with elements of House Draconis, will conduct reconnaissance and security operations IVO Phyrica NLT 1200 IOT provide early and accurate warning to the diplomatic envoy and ensure they are protected from any hostile action. Execution: (Concept of the Operation by Phase) This will be a 4 phase operation. Phase one will be infiltration and emplacement, Phase 2 will be a route reconnaissance, Phase 3 will be a screen, Phase 4 will be exfiltration and reconsolidation. (There's more but it's gonna be a long one) (edited)

(Commander's reconnaissance guidance to OP teams): Tempo- Rapid and Stealthy Engagement criteria- Upon engagement of the diplomatic envoy by Artema forces, self defense IOT facilitate disengagement and displacement Disengagement criteria- Upon receiving direct fire from Artema forces Displacement criteria- Upon PID of Artema forces passing the 500m mark away from the end of the game trail (A phase line here would be better but I'd need a map for that) (Commander's security guidance to all teams) Tempo- Short duration, oriented on friendly force Engagement criteria- Upon PID of direct fire on the envoy team. Disengagement criteria- When team is reduced to less than 50% combat power Displacement criteria-When envoy team has safely displaced from meeting area

(Phase 1) Phase 1 begins with SP from TAA Phyrica NLT 1000. Order of movement for this phase will be OP teams, forward security element with the envoy team, then the rear security element. The OP teams will be broken up into Team Alpha and Team Bravo. The two teams will maneuver 500m into the wood line and find covered and concealed positions approximately 100-200m off of the game trail with good observation down the route. Team Alpha will be augmented with a rocket truck that they will conceal with camo netting and leave in a hide spot. this vehicle will not be utilized unless direct fire contact is made. Team Bravo will carry their own standard kit and a rocket launcher. Once the OP teams are established in their positions they will radio back to confirm they are set and prepared to conduct reconnaissance. After the OP teams are established, the forward security element; consisting of the rocket truck, both HMG trucks, the envoy team, as well as 2 squads of infantry, will maneuver into a concealed position that has easy entrance and exit routes in order to facilitate rapid maneuver once the Artema force is identified. The rear security element; consisting of three sniper teams and three squads of infantry, and the Specialist Mech suit, will will maneuver simultaneously with the forward security element. The sniper teams will take up elevated and concealed positions 500m away from the meeting point IOT provide over watch of the envoy team. The three squads will be outfitted with rocket launchers and their issued rifles. They will take up covered and concealed positions in the woodline approximately 100-200m away from the meeting point, ensuring that they coordinate to have interlocking sectors of fire. Phase 1 ends when all teams radio that they are established in their respective positions. (edited)

(Phase 2) Phase 2 begins with all teams confirming they are established in their respective positions. During this phase, the OP teams will utilize binos and other vision enhancing optics IOT identify when the Artema convoy has passed the 500m mark away from the end of the game trail. After the convoy has been identified, this will be the trigger for the forward security element and the enoy team to initiate interdiction of the Atrema convoy. During this phase weapons control status for all teams will be HOLD. You will not fire your weapons unless in self defense. Once the interdiction team has made contact with the Artema convoy, they will take them into the clearing for negotiations. During this time, the rear security element will become the primary security element while the OP teams adjust their sectors of fire towards the clearing. Once the OP teams confirm with the rear security element that they have established their new sectors of fire, both teams will keep a good scan of the negotiations, ensuring they are adhering to the CSG. The Forward security element will be providing close protection of the envoy party, ready to provide cover for the envoy team and facilitate their displacement back to TAA Phyrica, should direct fire contact be made. Phase 2 ends when security is established and negotiations begin.

(Phase 3) Phase 3 begins with security having been established and negotiations beginning. At this time, it's simple, OP teams and rear security element will continue providing overwatch of the meeting point, adhering to the CSG, while the squad augmented with the Specialist suit will prep it for employment if the signal is given over comms. Forward security element, this phase will be dominated by you. You will be observing the Artema force for any hostile actions during the negotiations. Your weapon control status will be HOLD, you will fire only after being fired upon. If direct fire contact is made, you will establish a hasty support by fire IOT to facilitate the displacement of the envoy team. In addition, you will also be responsible for calling targets for our sniper teams, air support assets, as well as the Draconis elements. Once the envoy team has successfully displaced, you will then bound back to connect with the rear security element. If not direct fire contact is made, continue to observe and report. Phase 3 ends with the successful displacement of the envoy team from the meeting site.

(Phase 4) (I'm not going to go into detail about this phase because this is already long as fuck, but basically it's the OP teams displacing through the woods back to Phyrica with the forward and rear security elements to reconsolidate)

Scheme of Support: CAS: Air assets will be available in an LZ 500m away from Phyrica, consisting of 2 helos with attached weapons teams. Additionally, 4 aerofliers will be on standby at Mytikas that will be scrambled should the hasty support by fire be insufficient to cover the envoy team's displacement. Medical and maintenance: The primary medical and maintenance points will be co-located here at TAA Phyrica. In addition a casualty collection point will be located 50m behind the rear security element. Any casualties sustained during the operation will be moved there for immediate treatment and until we can move them to TAA Phyrica. Attachments: During this operation we will have attached elements from House Draconis, they will be providing heavy infantry and Mech support located in TAA Phyrica, with infantry elements located within supporting distance of the rear security element. Frequencies for commo will be shared with them for their situational awareness. They will serve as our on-order quick reaction force. Commo: Succession of command for the Mytikas forces during this operation will be as follows; Myself, Stev Andisom, Hedwig Wilhelmova. Radio frequencies will be as follows (Irrelevant for the game, and I'm not an S6 guy so I'm not too knowledgeable about this one, but he shares the radio frequency that they'll be using) At this time, are there any questions?"

(Did I just do an abbreviated Operations Order? You're god damned right. Was it necessary, probably not, but it's good practice.)

“The shuttles ready. Does anyone want to check it out personally or just the report and we’ll all go in on the truck?”

(I actually understood all this)

(Thank god, I tried to keep abbreviations to a minimum other than the obvious ones and TAA, because tactical assembly area is a pain in the ass to write out all the time)

“I will remain here” the regent says “my precious office holders have had bad luck when it comes to spacecraft

“If no-one wants to go up with the shuttle we can keep it on overwatch.”

"Overwatch would help, we could also keep it in the same LZ as the helos. If we need it, it'll probably be on site pretty quick."

“Very. The plan is to use it for stealth insertions and pickups, so it’s damn quick when we need it to be.”

"Perfect, then it can come in ahead of the helos. We can use it as a quick pickup if we need it. The helos can help the others bound back to the reconsolidation point."

Daitrij is present when Kayden gives his orders. Physically present. She is a complete nervous wreck. She hears a few abbreviations, here and there a Phyrica. But it doesn't matter anyway. She knows her part in this. And that's what's making her have that bad feeling in her stomach area. She is already in her dress (the one I posted in my channel.) and made her hair into a milkmaid braid. She hastily runs through her speech document. Checking if all the hyperlinks work and that she can easily maneuver it with one hand. She used most of the last two days to work on that document, add possible questions, tweak the wording, adding dramatic pauses. The rest of the time was used for praying and some rather restless sleep. But what matters is what happens in two hours. They prepared everything, they are prepared for everything. Everyone does their best. And too many people seem to count on her to get out two sentences straight. If she gets to say a few consecutive sentences, then she could get into talking mood. But who knows if those Artemisians let her do that. Still in thought, she walks over to Stev and Kay. "Just place me where I have to be. All will be well." "All will be well." At least she is telling herself that since dawn.

Stev comms the shuttle to advise them and listens as the pilot reports back his time to position.

“We’re on track from this end. The Draconis mechs are being held back in reserve, hopefully out of sight if the khans forces come looking. The soldiers have finished the major part of the trenches and the command tank has sufficient protection to avoid the first few rockets aimed at it.”

"Let's just hope they don't bring rockets at all." Naschi, Daitrij's sister comes to her mind. She was always great at remembering quotes. One particular one comes to her mind now. She tries to remember the exact words, but ultimately uses her own. "For every great dream, there needs to be a dreamer. Everyone assembled here that dares to dream of a world in peace, may have the strength, patience and the ever-burning celestial fire in their hearts, to reach for the stars and change this world." With those words said, she calms down and she becomes focussed again. (edited)

(With the group spotted I believe we now move to the interdict them in the forest stage )

(I guess everyone is briefed and ready to move, except we did not decide how many armed personnel join the delegation.)

(And I guess Stev or Kay should make that decision)

(Stev is going dressed as a civilian with only a pistol on him. Wescott doesn’t carry weapons. They were the only 2 from Draconis coming so we can keep our involvement quiet.)

(I guess its up to Kay. )

(Two trucks worth of dudes and 2 squads is about 30 total for the FSE)

(Kay will be with the envoy team during the start, dressed in his CFU and Pavis. But he won't have anything summoned so he'll look totally unarmed.)

(Daitrij won't come with her Spear either. Not just looking totally unarmed.)

Before leaving, Kay pulls Daitrij aside, noticing she was at the brief but not 'there.' "Hey, you're going to do great. Everything we're doing here, is to give you the best chance possible at working things out with these guys. I trust you can do this, and I have total faith in you. If you feel like you're stuck, just looks back at me and I'll try to just talk until you can get back on track."

(Damn, I’m not cool enough to summon weapons.)

Daitrij smiles at Kay, she is looking a bit more confident after saying the quote. "Thank you. I will do that, should I be out of words. There would also be Ognyena at my side and the way to long document full of ideas on what to say. Let's just hope they are open for some talk. I guess it's time to board the truck, eh?" (edited)

"Yeah, the sooner we get through this, maybe the sooner I can get a break. All this field work is really starting to take it's toll on me. Even like a week off would be nice."

"Yeah, that would be nice. But who knows. In a few hours I can tell you if there is any break to be expected." Daitrij lets a tiny flame jump from knuckle to knuckle again, while walking towards the truck.

The group set off into the woods, and the embedded soldiers have eyes on the convoy- which has not diverted from the path so far. You're on course to meet them about halfway through the forest

Stev stays in contact with the pilot of the shuttle and the company captains, letting them listen live via his comm.

(I think the onus here is on you guys as far as how to kick this off. They have no reason to just randomly shoot things in the woods, but you're the ones approaching them)

Kay hits his comm to the FSE <<Weapons at the low ready, remember we only shoot in self defense, but stay alert. Try to head them off right as they reach the exit of the trail.>>

"May Ognyena be with us all. And remember. What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments or written down in books, but what is woven into the lives of others. And this right now can be such a moment. And we are all part of it." Once they reach the desired meeting point Daitrij steps out of the truck and as soon as the tribute collectors would come into range she waves at them. As they get even closer she bows, her braids remain in place, rock-solid, and the metal pieces on her dress make a slight metallic clanging sound. And at all times she tries to keep her left hand behind her back to cover up her browsing. Waiting to see if they stop.

There is a squeak of air-brakes, as the large trucks begin to slow down, preparing to stop. The motorbikes likewise collapse back to the formation, and also begin slowing down. The lead bike throws up an arm signal, and the engines begin shutting down

Stev stands in the back of the truck and runs an eye over the opposite security.

Kay exits his truck and stands by Daitrij as she bows to the convoy. Looking over what they have, but primarily concerned with getting Daitrij out of the way of the guns if things go poorly.

"I am greeting the delegation from Artema, here in the beautiful outskirts of Phyrica. Fear not, we won't attack."She points at their armed protection with her right hand and open palm. "Those men and women are only here to ensure that a peaceful talk is possible. I am sorry that we brought them here, but without knowing who we were going to meet, it was simply a necessity. I am Hedwig Wilhelmova Sakharov, citizen of Mytikas. You can call me Daitrij for short, or anything else you may find appropriate. We are here to discuss the future of Phyrica and of the relationship between Artema and Mytikas." For the first time she shows her left hand. It's not moving strangely as she has the last part of the introduction down pat. She stretches out her arms to either side in an open gesture with palms open towards the Artemisians. "I'd ask you, friends. To join us for some talks. We've prepared a tent for that. Way more comfortable than standing here in the open. There'll be food and something to drink, for those who want something. You can either join us here in those trucks or follow the trucks to the tent. However you decide to procede. We will welcome everyone of your delegation that wants to participate in these talks, as many or as less as that may be." She smiles at them, bows again and waits for a reaction. "phew, I guess that wasn't too bad for a start."

"Talks regarding what? We're here to collect the tribute for the Khan. Please move aside"

(It’s almost midnight, so if you need Stev to do anything, or the shuttle, it’s in your hands. Happy discussing!)

(Have a good night Stev.) Daitrij's smile vanishes. And both hands return to her back. There is a short pause until she answers. "Oh I am sorry, I left that for the talks in the tent, but I can understand that you feel like you've been left out of the loop. A few days ago a corps of diplomates came to Phyrica to discuss an incident that happened a while ago. During those peaceful talks, the leadership of Phyrica told us that they from now on want to be part of the Elysium Protectorate and thus associated with Mytikas. I know you are here to collect tribute. And I am willing to pay that tribute this time. What exactly are we talking about in that regard? But aside from the tribute, there is a need to talk about the future. As peace is what we all desire. But peace cannot be kept by force, it can only be achieved by understanding. And as of now, there hasn't been any understanding between the two cities of ours. That has to change." She smiles again, even though it's fake. "So, I ask you again. Would you be so kind as to follow us to the tent for further discussion? That would also be the place where we arrange the compensational payment you so desire." (edited)

"It seems we don't have much choice" the convoy lead sighs. He motions for two of his riders to come over to him, taking them aside, he whispers some instructions and shakes both of their hands.

"Be quick. I'll see you both at home in a few days I hope"

Returning to you "I'm expecting you're not going to shoot my messengers in the back, or impede their journey. The Khan is the one with ultimate authority. If you want this to work, she needs to get that information:

Kay pipes up for the first time. "My soldiers know when to shoot. You have my word that they will not be harmed or impeded."

He nods, and waves for his messengers to head out. "I suppose we'll follow you to this neutral ground then. I can at least try to get some idea of whats going on, and negotiate as much as I can"

Daitrij bows. For the third time since their arrival. This time her smile is honest. "My friend there is always a choice. You just choose the silver lining for everlasting peace on this beautiful planet. And I assure you, we mean you no harm. Even if you don't agree with us and leave in disagreement. There won't be no harm to you. So you will see your friends again. Tell them they can tell your Khan that it would be our upmost pleasure to have a meeting. And we honor the ultimate authority of your khan in this matter. So just follow us and be our guests." She enters the truck and falls into one of the seats. "Phew what a start."

Kay enters the other seat in the truck as they lead the convoy to the meeting point. <<OP teams, two bikes going out. Shift sectors of fire to their original position in case they come back with more friends.>> "It's a start. Nice job, and the dress was a nice touch."

The bikes leave the forest and are making a clear run for the city. No reinforcements look to be coming for the moment

Daitrij slightly leans towards Kay. Just enough to feel his CFU but not enough for anybody else to notice. "Thank you Kay. It reminds me of home. And I read that the cities here are rather, uhm, traditional. So I thought it fits. But this was only the first step. There is still some work in front of us. And I just hope that there is no cruel surprise waiting for us. You did well out there too."

Kay takes a deep breath, "Two phases down, two more to go. Just a little more work left." "Thanks, guess we'll get our answer soon right? It'll be a good one, I know you can do that. As for a surprise, that's why I'm here, and Stev too. Think on the positive side, maybe this will go so smoothly that we'll even have time to grab a few drinks before the day's over." (edited)

"That would be wonderful Kay. Phew. Onto the next phase. At least my notes still fit for the situation." Daitrij sits back up right and prepares for the next part and their arrival at the tent.

(how did you guys envision the tent and surroundings being set up?)

(As far as placement, in a open field surrounded by a woodline where my RSE have good sightlines onto the tent and the area. As for the inside, that. As for the tent itself, Kay would have left that up to Daitrij)

(Alright, yeah whats the insides like)

(So even without the numbers we know now, it should have been a big tent planned from the get-go, big enough for a hundred people at least. When it comes to entrances and windows, I would have let Kay decide that. I imagine one big entrance no windows. To give the delegation from Artema a feeling of secrecy, nobody watching or peeking through windows and no fear from a sniper attack. But again, that's security, that is something Kay should decide. For the interior. The fabric of the tent, hmm something thick. maybe some whitish thick canvas. So that it's not see-through and it's not easily getting cold in there, but still it would be light and have a rather positive vibe. It should have lamps inside and some cooking station and a small simple bar. That way no one needs to leave to get drinks or food and the waiters stay inside as well. There won't be a big enough table available. Still, I guess many smaller tables that form one large table so both delegations sit on opposite sides. Not optimal, but rather classic. If we only have one entrance, it should be on one side and not in the back of either delegation. Kay, Stev, feel free to add.)

(Yep, that's fine. One entrance, FSE comes in and pulls close security with us, the RSE and OP teams have their fire oriented on the tent and Artema guards. In case of an emergency, on my order, or Stev or Daitrij if I go down, to light up the tent with small arms. Proword for that is DROP) (edited)

The vehicles park a respectful distance from the camp (I'm assuming they'd be seeing the fortifications now, even if we're not meeting in the middle of them all now) and the bikes shut down. The large trucks likewise shut off, and the convoy leader with two guards step forward. He is wearing only his sidearm, and his companions have long rifles but they're worn over shoulders, and not lowered

(Over shoulders as in slung? Or they have it at shoulder arms or something?)

(Shoulder arms)

Kay will stay with Daitrij, dethatching 2 from the FSE to accompany him. The rest of the FSE will guard outside the tent, the RSE and OPs will have their sectors of fire covering the tent and the convoy.

"You've....been busy" the convoy leader says, approaching the tent, but not entering without permission

He looks out over the fortifications

"I didn't know what exactly was coming. It would be unprofessional if I didn't take every necessary precaution."

Once at the tent, Daitrij waits for every Artemisian citizens and greets them individually and invites them to enter the tent. As soon as everyone is seated and has something to drink and eat, so they wish to, she seats herself as well. "I welcome you all again, now in a more convenient atmosphere. Alright. I can just imagine how that must feel to you. I assure you that we will take care of the tribute, so you don't come back home empty-handed. To minimize your trouble. This is nothing we have to do. This is a gesture of goodwill. One of the many we are willing to deliver to ensure peace, prosperity, and a dialog between every city. And I want you to know that everything you say here will be kept between you and us. What we say, you can tell whoever you want. That way you can answer freely to us." She pauses for a moment to see if she has everyone's attention, then continues. (edited)

"Let's start with the immediate situation. Phyrica decided to join the protectorate on their free will. That is a fact and it's going to stand. Now I can imagine that your Khan and your city as a whole would see this sceptically. Mytikas stealing your land and reducing your income. But it's never been your land, or your people, it isn't ours either. It's theirs. And thus it's their decision. We will pay you a one time compensational payment so the tribute that would be due, is payed. But if one village changed sides because they see a better future for them and their people when they join us, then others will follow. And only an alliance between our cities can ensure that those rising tensions won't start to eat us up. Only this way we can ensure that no city will be left behind but every city treated equal and every citizen provided with the chance to live the life he desires. We, the now people of Mytikas, who jumped through space past aloof stars, across the universe to a destination where all signs tell us peace and trust are hard to achieve. For us it's imperative that we stay brave to take even the hardest obstacles. We have seen wars, we decided that war and aggresion won't be our future. That is why we strive for peace. So that when we come to it, to the day of peacemaking. When we release our fingers from fists of hostility. When we open our hearts for the celestial fire to warm and guide us. That as when we can finally start to make this planet into a peaceful world. A bright light in the universe. Wouldn't you want your children to grow up here on this very planet, knowing that you don't have to fear war? Knowing that trade between the cities leads to prosperity for everyone? Knowing that ever city, every village, every person on that very planet has a say on how the future will be shaped? Wouldn't that be a future everyone of you would want to live in?" (edited)

"I need to make somerthing clear he says" swallowing a mouthful of food before he was ready to speak, "I don't have the power to make any kind of final deal. The Khan herself would be the one to do it and make any kind of lasting alliance or deal. I do want to thank you for the tribute , bringing that back will give us a measure of deniability toward what was going on here. We're going to be looked at suspiciously when we return home just for entertaining these talks to begin with, but my men are young, green. They didn't deserve to die in a pointless shootout with you"

Daitrij is nodding and listening to every word he says. "And I wouldn't want you to go home empty handed. But before stepping infront of your Khan and negotiating about that very topic I need an answer. A Khan is a powerful leader. Someone people follow. But it is just one being. I could bring a Khan to believe in my vision. But that is not a priority for me. You, the people of Artema are my priority. So would you want to see the cities working together, united, striving to achieve the best for its people? Remember your answer will be kept a secret, promise." (edited)

“I could see it happening but the khans do not fit into the equation. They’d never consent to a power sharing or rule by the people agreement”

"A unified planet would protect us from what happened to your city, and your former leader. A unified planet pushed the Overlord into banishment too. Good things happen when we come together"

Stev shifts uncomfortably and looks for anyone acting suspicious.

Daitrij gets more and more enthusiastic. Seeing that the people of this planet may be ready. But as of now, the Khans are too much of a factor to be considered irrelevant. "And even better things will happen if this planet stays united. Ruled by one government, to serve the people and elected by the people. At the moment this world is ruled by seven cities. Only one of them has an elected leader. Right now, most of the power lies in the hands of some privileged leader class. That's not how it should be. I will need to talk to your Khan. Maybe he or she shares my vision. Chances are they don't..

Phyrica was just the first to join us in their free will. There will be others following. We won't collect tribute, but they will pay taxes. Those will lead to them benefiting from what we have to offer, modern health care, technologies that make their life easier, knowledge and education, and much more. In preparation for this meeting, I read multiple times that this world decided to banish technology. So this world never has to suffer an event as catastrophic as the war against the Overlord. But it wasn't technology that killed so many people. It was the existence of the overlord and the war that was waged. On a peaceful unified planet, there are no armies clashing against each other. Technology would solely be helpful and not harmful to the people. The darkness of war was followed by darkness in technology. But darkness can't drive away darkness, only light can do that. And the light here is unity, but it can also be technology and knowledge. Even with weapons of an older age, people die in war. Beloved ones have to be mourned. It doesn't change a thing. But without technology, there is no modern medicine. Without that people die useless and preventable deaths as well. I don't want that. People have to live a harder than necessary life. There is nothing bad in a slow and simple life don't get me wrong. But there is something wrong in people dying young because factories pollute the air and bring chronic illnesses to the people. There is something wrong when people have to work with bad posture because old tech gives them no other choice and thus those people will suffer chronic pain, unnecessary chronic pain. And as a unified planet, Heras can become an Elysium for everyone. So I ask you not one but two questions. Do you really see the evil in technology? And what would you be willing to give for a future in peace and unity?" (Maybe I should rank up talk after this meeting...) (edited)

(I’d say you’re doing a great job so far!)

(thank you, but it doesn't fit with her -1 in talk. She is still using her prewritten stuff and reading the keywords so it's justifiable in this situation. Oh and sorry that you can only sit here and watch right now.)

(Not IC sorry. Cause you being active would mean us being at war.)

(Hahaha that’s okay. No talk good. Need big scary metal men to make point.)

(Yep! If we have to do stuff, then things have gone wrong.)

"My grandfather fought in the Overlord war. It was a terrible conflict. He talked about that fight every time things around the house got quiet. Even for myself, I've been to the battlefield. Someone will always find a way to bend something peaceful to a harmful purpose. The only way to be safe is to not allow any of it. If that means we have to do some day to day living the hard way, then it is a sacrifice I think any of us would be willing to make"

"This anxiety of technology is the illness of this planet, a seed planted by the overlord and his henchmen. Everyone worries about it, so this plant grows in everyone's heart. If we all allow worry to fill our hearts, sooner or later we will get sick. And who knows how this sickness manifests. But it's sad to see that you all still suffer and limit yourself because of this monster. Don't let him have a grip on all of you although you already defeated him. Of course, technology could be used for dangerous means in moments of dispute. And peace likewise doesn't mean an absence of conflicts, differences will always be there. Peace means solving these differences through peaceful means, through dialogue, knowledge, and understanding each other. And we shouldn't shun technology. If we are united in peace we will work together to end any threat of someone misusing technology before it is too late. But thanks to technology we will live a better life. We should not banish technology from our planet. We should banish war and violence in our society. Not technology is the reason your grandfather has those terrible memories, it was war. I hope I will be able to show you and all the people on Heras that technology is a chance, and without war or armed conflict, the positive effects far outweigh the potential dangers. I hope that one day you see it the same way as I do. Would you be able to arrange a meeting between a delegation of Mytikas and your Khan? And would there be any we could stay in contact? I would give you a communication device as a gift. But I could understand if you decline, for whatever reason you may have. I see things changing here and I want to avoid blood shed at all cost. So a form of communication would be helpful."

"We sent messengers back to inform the Khan of the situation here. Her reply is up to her. She may come, she may send another proxy. If you're not planning on doing something underhanded to my men, her reply, and possibly the Khan herself might be coming within a f ew days"

“We’re happy to have whoever can speak on the Kahn’s behalf here. Nothing will happen to your men while these talks continue and you leave us in peace.”

Daitrij looks down at the table for a moment. Scrolling through her document. Thinking. Then looks up again nodding at Stev's comment. "So be it. You are free to go or stay for however long you wish, whatever you prefer. The regent of Mytikas will take care of the tribute. As you don't have any further authority, there is just one thing I want to tell you. You and your men, your friends, your family. I want nobody harmed If we get to an agreement with your Khan, everything will be great. If not I fear that it's not us but your people who would use violence. I don't want to meet you on the battlefield. Too many lives would be wasted. Should you ever be afraid that a conflict could mean harm to you or your people. We will always protect you. Don't let yourself be sent into a pointless war by people who won't even fight alongside you on the battlefield. I hope all will be well. And I wish every one of you all the best. I will be here to wait for your Khan or the next delegation you send." She looks at Kay and Stev to see if they have anything to add. Shouldn't they say anything she would stand up and bow again.

Stev shrugs at Daitrij’s look.

Kay looks at Daitrij and shrugs. "Thanks for talking with us. I apologize for taking the preparations I did. But I care about the people I am charged to protect, so I owe it to them to be thorough. If you need anything before you go, just ask and I'll do what I can."

(I think from here, he would probably speak to the Khan privately to discuss what the tribute is, and how that will work. He still has to leave since hes got to deliver it , along with his men)

(so we have a couple days we can elect to fast forward through or not, before a reply comes)

(I'm fine with either or. If the other two want to have some downtime or push right through, I'm fine with both)

(I guess it would be best to fast forward. We don't know what will arrive next. And we are assembled here right now. But I am okay either way.)

(Preparations are done. Fast forward away.)

(We're going to be passing about a week here, by time the scouts return, tribute returns, they figure out what they're doing, and then something actionable happens, I don't know if anyone has any downtime activities they wanted to work on or track)

(Another 7 days added to training Lead please)

(Daitrij uses the time to work through records and organizes them to be prepared for the next talk. Administer 7/90)

(Kay will spend his time with his guys, not wanting to bother anyone else's preparations. Mostly bouncing different ideas off of his guys)

Close to noon on day 8, the shuttle flying surveillance patrol from almost space sees a column of fifty vehicles approaching the mission area. The consistency is ten light tanks, and the remainder is a mix of troop carriers and a very ornate traveling ATV explorer

Kay keys his comms as he gets the information on the convoy. <<Let them come straight in, no intercepting or anything. That's a lot of armor, so we gotta play it very safe with them.>>

(Do you want to scramble anything?)

(We should probably figure that out now so we know what might be in the area. Just in case we do need it)

(Helos on standby, pilots in their aerofliers ready to take off whenever the order is given.)

(The LZ for the helos is about 500 meters behind Phyrica, the aeroflier LZ is about 2km back from that. The mech suit will be back with the RSE prepped for someone to get into the cockpit) (edited)

(For the shuttle, same as last time, on standby for extraction in case shit goes sideways.)

(The rest of the Knights will be in position to defend Phyrica. Wescott and Stev will be with the talky group again.)

(Daitrij will wait at the tent most likely or where Kay wants her to wait for the arrival of what's to come.)

(I think the tent works. Everyone can wait inside except for the formal greeting party.)

(Last question , is this second group likewise being stopped in the woods or can they roll right up?)

(Kay suggested to let them roll right up if I am not mistaken. So Daitrij and whoever joins her will wait in front of the tent to welcome whoever is there. In a way that depends on how the people from Artema present themselves. And while they roll in, Kay's scout would have an eye on them. I guess?) (edited)

(Yeah, same setup as before. But we are not stopping a 50 vic convey with tanks, while we're in, basically, a HMMWV)

(Good. Daitrij would be infront of the tent then, to get the possibility to interact with whomever important will present himself, before entering the tent.)

(Stev will be outside too, acting as a bodyguard for Daitrij aka Secret Service Stev.)

(Kay will be outside the tent as well, doing the double duty of ensuring his security positions are concealed from the tent's point of view and seeing whoever this negotiator is for himself)

The tanks idle and turn off, barrels raised. They form a loose line. Soldiers bunker behind them for cover and some begin the process of digging in or at least expanding their shelter spots with some additional soil berms. The large ATV moves through a lane left in the middle of the formation and a side door opens. It’s the most modern vehicle you’ve seen on Heras so far. A woman in leather and light banded metal hunting armor emerges from the vehicle. A large staff of office , carved to resemble animals and topped with a stags antlered head “I am Khan Artema, of the city Artema. I am here to discuss why my client town has suddenly changed flags and what we plan to do about it”

Stev quietly comms to the captains. “Artema has arrived. Tanks and soldiers are setting up rudimentary fortifications. Have the shuttle ready for quick extraction.”

Trusting his soldiers know the plan, Kay gives a short bow to the Khan. "Madam Khan, Kayden Zayre of the Elysians. Thank you for coming. We would be happy to discuss what can be done." "It feels way too weird to say that and not 'of the Thracians'. But, I guess these are my people now."

All those documents she worked through the last days will be brought to a test now. Sadly those recorded speeches of the late late Regent Cyrus she had at hand could only be used if she wanted to start a war before the first argument is even reached. As the convoy from Artema is about to arrive she looks towards Gudrun and closes her eyes. One last prayer to Ognyena before she opens her eyes again and breathes audibly. "All will be well. Ognyena will guide me and protect us. The flame will find it's way into their hearts."

That said, she calms herself. As soon as the convoy stops she starts walking towards it. As soon as she realizes that she indeed will be having a conversation with Khan Artema herself, she slows down, but does not stop. She wants to use all she read about in the last week, to achieve the best she can. Open-handed she stops about 5 meters away from the Khan. Daitrij's left hand is touching her heart as she bows slightly. She stretches out her arms to either side. "It is our honor to have you here. Khan of Artema. Not just for me, but for everyone that is with me. I am Hedwig Wilhelmova Sakharov. You can call me Daitrij or any name you feel is appropriate. With you here progress can be made. Let me be the voice of Mytikas while you are the voice of Artema. Let our voices become one, sounding in unison. announcing a new age for this planet. The age of peace, knowledge, prosperity, and understanding. With your help, there will be blooming landscapes everywhere." While talking Daitrij would try to close the gap between her and the Khan. Slowly and deliberately, carefully watching the reactions, so she does not get shot by anyone. If possible she would want to hug the Khan. Her forearms heated up to give the Khan a pleasant and warm, but not hot, embrace. That way she wants to surprise the Khan to catch her off guard. While the hug should symbolize a peaceful greeting as an opening of a peaceful talk between friends. That hug should psychologically bring Datrij onto the Khan's level. Making them equal in the eyes of others. After the hug she would wait for a reaction from the Khan. Should it become obvious that a hug is impossible to achieve, she would turn sideways and point towards the tent asking the Khan and her delegation to enter the tent with her. (edited)

The guards tense as you get closer than 5m to the Khan, until finally one of her bodyguards puts a hand on her shoulder to pull her back “That’s close enough. Stop there and don’t approach”

Daitrij makes a few steps backwards and bows again. "I am so sorry. But Lady Artema can be assured that I, and we, mean no harm to her. But I do understand your caution. So be it. We would feel honored if you would accept our invitation and would join us in our tent over there. We do have catering in there as well. And I do hope that we can offer what you desire when it comes to something to drink or eat. Once seated and have been served I would let you bring up your opinion first as you are our guest here." As she turn towards the tent and makes sure to lead Artema's delegation. She mouths a silent "sorry" towards Kay and Stev.

Kay will try to give Daitrij a reassuring smile before he follows her in. "At least the Khan's here. That mean she at least wants to discuss something. If either of us wanted to kill each other, we would have done so already. Just stay calm and we can talk it out." (edited)

She enters the tent and her face remains neutral as she takes in her surroundings. The regent and town leaders are in separate talks, arranging how to meet one another’s needs once this is completed for good or ill, and will not be present here

Stev stands near the entry, watching the visibly highest ranked soldier in the khans retinue for signs that they are going to start something.

While the Artema delegation is being served, Daitrij looks at the Khan. Curious if she is a normal person, or something else. But to break the silence she asks: "So, Khan of Artema. How should I adress you? Khan of Artema, Khan Artema, Lady Artema, or something entirely different?"

It is hard to tell exactly what she is now. Her appearance is human but you are reminded of the late regent cyrus, as certain aspects of her physicality are greatly enhanced- somehow without making her look like a genebred monster

“Artema, or Khan is fine. I see you’ve gone through the trouble of fortifications and wartime preparations. It makes me wonder if these talks are worth the time”

Kay steps forward from his place behind Daitrij. "I can answer that. I mean no threat or disrespect by it. I do not know you, I did not know how you would react. My job is to keep my people safe, no matter the situation. I would much rather make preparations and not need them, rather than not make them and need them."

“I see. Prudent. That’s why I traveled with so much armor. We did not know what we would be walking into. So, Phyrica has decided to change flags. This is a problem for me you see, as a rare element is mined from the ground exclusively within this town and I would rather not see it taken from me “

Stev takes a step forward. “Pardon me for interrupting, but this seems like a good time to talk about future trade agreements between the Protectorate and Artema. If there is something you want that we have access to, both sides would benefit from robust trading.”

“I’ll let you know if I’m ever in the market for piles of rocks and people shitting in the street” she quips

“Mytikas has nothing that interests me. This village however had a psychic interfering ore that is found underground here. None of the other khans have been as fortunate to find any”

“And Phyrica has decided to join the Protectorate. That ore you are talking about belongs to Phyrica. Hence the trade idea.”

Daitrij enjoys the chance to see Lady Artema acting and talking without her doing anything. But she feels like she has to make a point now. Those people of Artema sounded like they were open to change, Lady Artema wouldn't easily follow those same ideals. Most people cling to power. Those speeches of Cyrus she read had much pathos, but copying them would be too aggressive and she doesn't want to orbital bombard herself and Mytikas with her words when there is a chance to change things. But those people last week, were nice. Lady Artema though. Daitrij needs to show her how weak her bargaining position really is. And to mirror that rhetorically she would try not call her a Khan, but a mere Lady most of the time. "Thank you Mr. Andisom, but I guess Lady Artema sees this ore as her own, and she underestimates Mytikas as a whole. I don't know what you think would happen when you come here and I also don't know when you or one of your spies visited our city the last time. But we made progress. Don't downplay us, when in fact deep within you, you are afraid that our technological superiority would make us the next Overlord. Which won't happen, as all we want is peace. Phyrica decided to join us and it was their free will. You don't own the ore, Phyrica does." (edited)

Daitrij looks at Lady Artema with a serious look on her face and fire in her eyes, to finally be able to bring her cause to a Khan.

I was actually thrilled when I saw you exiting your vehicle. I heard only the best about you. Heard that you are farsighted and wise. That's why I do wonder why the ore is your primary desire. Not that we wouldn't be willing to trade with you, quite the opposite actually. But you seem to misread the whole situation and underestimate the changes that are already happening. Phyrica joined us, because they saw their future with us. They chose our vision of the future. So many people aren't happy with how the Khans are handling things. Do you think it will stop with Phyrica? Do you think it will stop with Greencoast? Doesn't it make you wonder why those people want to join Elysium, and why they admire what we have to offer? We offer them a better life and freedom of choice. Interesting huh? Daitrij pauses for a moment, but not long enough to let Lady Artema react.

Why would people want to be associated with a shithole and a supposedly evil place? Maybe you should take a look yourself? But all of that shouldn't be what should concern you the most. What happens when all those villages decide to join a place they see their future in. Do you think the people of Artema won't be affected? Don't you think they would be leaving as well? What would you do about it, build a wall? What would happen with your powerful position as a Khan then? Lady Artema, I wasn't using some flowery speech when I was talking about a new age. And I am so infinitely grateful that you are here today. In all of your wisdom, you should see that too. We want to make this planet an elysium. A beacon of peace and understanding in the universe. And during these talks, you have the chance to find your place in that. I wish to see you at our side, still being powerful as part of the governmental body of this Elysium. There are others, who are already allies of us. But you Lady Artema. You are given a chance. To become more than a mere Khan. You are given the chance to be truly exalted as a figure of peace and wisdom. You shouldn't worry about this ore, you should start envisioning the future with us. With us, this ore would be accessible for you anyway." She ends it with a smile on her face, awaiting the reaction of Lady Artema.

“Joining you means tying my political will to that in Mytikas. I find this unacceptable. Beyond just the worship of Ares, Mytikas has time and again shows its aggressive intent. I have no desire to war against my fellow Khans- natives of this planet and my peers- to help appease the aspirations of squatters in ruins. I believe these villages are changing flags not because the want to join you but because they feel they have a better chance at gaining independence for themselves through you. Our forces will fight and as your ranks thin, the villages will throw off their shackles, knowing you do not have the war materials or men to bring them back into the fold”

"Lady Artema, you're not tying your political will to Mytikas, you are tying it to this very planet and it's precious people. Mytikas is not the center of this planet. And we should maybe think about building a new city in the center of this planet. A city where the united government whould have it's place. That way it would be easier to see that not one of the original cities leads this planet. But a vision and every person on that planet together and the focal point of this vision of light and peace would be that new capital of Heras. These villagers agree with that vision. And what is wrong with that? What is wrong with freedom? We are all of us free or we are none of us free, all at peace or none at all. There is no middle ground. And for the mistakes we do, all will be called to account – devils and angels alike. War is nothing I want to wage. It is nothing we should even think about. It will bring sadness to this planet. We have seen the war, not in our past but in our very lives. We are sick of it. But if the moment calls for just that, we will put our lives on the line to make sure that there won't be war, ever again on that planet. Our lines won't thin out. Yours will. Let me show you something Lady Artema. Those ruin dewellers don't need arrow and bow to defend themselves. I assure you, there is no pride in what I am about to show you. But you need to learn that I am giving you a choice. A chance to do something great. Greater than most beings will ever have the chance to accomplish. But as I said, other Khans are already willing to side with us. Don't risk your people out of pride and false glory." Daitrij looks at Kay. "Kayden Zayre. Please show Lady Artema your suit." She turns to Lady Artema again. "Kayden Zayre is a member of one of our special platoons all equiped with what you are about to see. Please Lady Artema, don't make me hold a military parade just to show you what we are capable of." "Please buy that lie."

He looks back at her with a face of, "You're sure you want to do this?" "Very well. Please excuse me a couple minutes. All I ask is that I'm not shot in the back." He will go back to the RSE and climb into the Predator suit, bringing it back out to the clearing.

"I am so sorry Kay." Daitrij stands up. Torn up inside. She couldn't bear becoming the one who brings the flame of destruction to the planet. All she wants is to bring the flame of love to the planet. She walks around the table, over to Lady Artema. Looking at her guards first. "I know, I am getting too close. But this time there is no place safer than at my side. For the both of us. I just want her to see this. So please tell your men to stay put. This is no war. There will never be." She reaches out with her hand to help Lady Artema up. Speaking to her in a quiet voice. "I beg you Lady Artema, I want you at my side, not on the other side. Please come with me and I beg you, please don't force me to show you anything more than what we are about to show you. I will protect every citizen on this planet. Every citizen of the future Elysium of Heras. But please don't let it come to bloodshed." Should Lady Artema agree, Daitrij would stand by her side outside of the tent to look at Kay presenting the suit. (edited)

Kay makes it about halfway across the field when he stops, "This isn't right, threats will get us nowhere. Fuck! Ty, how would you do this? How would Mom and Dad do this? I'm sorry Daitrij, I know I'm going against you on this, but these talks don't need a Soldier, they need a Trader." He walks back across the field, to the tent, entering calmly so as not to startle the guards, putting on his best impression of a Trader's smile. "We're a trading people at our core, please let some of that have rubbed off on me." "Madam Khan, You say that we have demonstrated our hostile intent time and time again. We did not harm your tribute collectors, we did not attempt to harm you, and I will not attempt to threaten you. Like my peer said, we are here for peace, not violence. If you wish to not give up your autonomy for your people, that's understandable. We will not force you to do anything. How about this then, we care about the people of Phyrica. You care about the minerals mined from it. So, how about we keep Phyrica, but all of the minerals mined from it are delivered to you. You can spin it as you are 'attempting to reform the savages in the ruins to become respectable inhabitants of Heras.' Or however you wish to spin it. You'll also keep your exclusive resource. To show that we can be trusted in this agreement, when the time of the next delivery comes, I will personally deliver the shipment of minerals to you. How does that sound?" (edited)

Daitrij, standing next to the Khan, looks at Kay in disbelief. But she can't stop smiling at him. Thankful that he came up with an idea she did not have. It may be bad economically. But it would be best for the people. She doesn't know why, but she touches her heart with her left hand and bows slightly towards Kay.

"We have only your word that you will not interfere with delivery. What guarantees can you give me aside from the first transfer being personally escorted?"

"If you do not trust my word, then you may assign people to inspect and audit every delivery we make. If any of the deliveries are short, then you have your cause for military action. If you do not wish to do that, then I will personally deliver as many shipments as necessary until you believe I can keep my word. If any shipments are interfered with, well I'd be right there. I'm sure you could think of something."

She seems to think for a moment. "Auditors will be assigned. I think that is a good long term solution to this problem"

He gives her a nod "As do I. If you have anything else to discuss, feel free to do so. If you wish to stay and eat while we speak as people, rather than as representatives, feel free to do so. Or you may feel free to leave if you wish to do so." He holds out his hands to the side "The time is yours Madame Khan."

Daitrij goes back to her seat. Sits down and watches Kay do his take on diplomacy. While doing so she feels anger, against herself for letting it come so far. "I am no diplomat. Why did I even volunteer. Thank you Kay. Thank you for rescuing me once again. You are way more than just a mercenary. So much more. I am far more honored to be here with you than to be here with the Khan."

She frowns.

"It seems I have no choice. We've got our hands tied here, and nothing I've brought with me is enough to change the situation. I suppose I'll be seeing you next month"

"I look forward to it Madam Khan." He clears the way for her and her bodyguards.

Stev nods respectfully to the Khan as she leaves.

(6xp, 10,000 credits)

The Khan returns to her ATV, and the formation begins to wheel around, preparing to make the long journey back home to Artema, no doubt stewing at her being outmaneuvered this entire negotiation

Kay turns to Stev after the Khan leaves. "I'm sorry you invested so much into Phyrica, just for nothing to happen. Though, I guess we all wish for easy days like that. How much does Phyica owe you?"

(1,500,000 credits outstanding balance to KoD)

"1.5 million credits."

He looks out the tent entrance and surveys the fortifications.

"Before we take our leave, I'll get my troops to turn the earthworks they've set up into plowed fields for the town. If they aren't making money off the mining they'll need something else to get by on."

"Thanks, that'll definitely help. Your fee will get paid, and thanks for your help. Any way I could get your contact information? In case you ever find yourself out this way again."

"Certainly. Not sure when that will be but the Knights can be just a message away."

He taps on his comm and transfers the details to Kay.

He gives Stev a smile. "Good to know. Those mechs are something else, wouldn't mind getting some more once we take a closer look at the suit." Kay flops down on one of the chairs and lets out a tired sigh. "Anybody else feel like they need a beer? Cuz I sure as fuck do."

Stev laughs.

"I could do with one. Not sure what they've got on the shuttle but I can always order them to pick some up on the Pillar and bring it down to us once the Khan and her forces are far enough away."

He comms to the shuttle and asks for a container to be filled with ice and beer to be brought to the tent. He then comms the captains and informs them of the situation, including turning the earthworks into fields.

"Do we still have eyes on the convoy, to make sure they're really leaving?"

"Real generous of you. Now that I think about it, that sounds sarcastic but seriously, it's genuine. I feel bad taking some of the good shit from your dudes though, and in still in a trading mood. We got some some good stuff called Ufyuin Punch. We can bring a keg or two up for you. A little gift from us to you guys."

"That'd be nice. Might make the troops a little happier once they've finished unmaking all those trenches."

He chuckles at the thought he doesn't have to do the dirty work this time and how nice it is.

"Yeah, and hell, they've been out here for about a week, some of my guys have been out in the field even longer. They deserve something." Kay will comm the Regent and ask permission to requisition a shipment from Elias Liquors.

Elias liquors has generously decided to donate its first, and only batch to the soldiers here, and a cargo lighter will be out with it soon

speaking of cargo lighters, Stev calls in the first to start transporting the mechs and the Driade back to the Pillar.

"How long do you think it'll take 500 soldiers with shovels to fix 3 days worth of trenches?"

(6xp, 10,000 credits for you all. We can RP out the party here if we want to, otherwise we're good to split into personal threads again depending on what everyone wants to do)

(Up to whatever the others wanna do. I'm fine with whatever)

(Same)

The two cargo lighters come to a landing, some half an hour later, and immediately the casks of thin lavender colored punch are rolled off, and set up to be tapped.

Kay hops towards the landing lighters with renewed vigor. "Fuck yeah!" He helps the crew set up the kegs. "First shipment of the punch, so y'all will be the first to taste it. Seeing as the Draconis are guests here, they'll grab the first round. Don't worry, we saved enough for the rest of us."

As the lighter lands, Daitrij slips out and takes a walk alone. After a few minutes she sits down on one of the earth walls. She looks up. "I am sorry that I failed you. I was so close to threatening the Khan with our superior military. I was begging her instead of convincing her. I have yet so much to learn. But you sent me Kay, to do what I can't. Thank you for that. Thank you for sending me signs. Thank you for always being there for me. I guess I should go back to the others, who when or if I meet those two again." Daitrij walks back ready to test the drink that is named after her sister. She finds a place close to Stev and Kay and tastes some of the punch. She is ready to relax and leave those negotiations behind. She looks at the two. "Thanks you two. I guess we can enjoy some nice drinks now."

Sitting at one of the tables, his Pavis undone and resting next to him, letting the shirt underneath air out. Next to a pair of drinks is his knit beanie, leaving his short brown hair tussled and messed up. Seeing Daitrij approach, he smiles and hold up the extra drink. "Oh yeah, you have no idea how long I've been looking forward to a drink, it's been what, two months since I've had some downtime. Here, saved some for you."

Stev takes a drink and lets out a sigh as he allows himself to properly relax.

"Damn, this is good stuff. Got an export agreement for it yet?"

The shuttle lands outside the tent and a couple of soldiers carry in an equipment case, which they put on the ground near Stev, salute, then head back out to the shuttle.

Stev pushes open the case, revealing bottles of Gudrun-made beer.

"Here's my donation to the cause."

"Sadly, the purveyors of Elias Liquor Incorporated were killed in some kind of...grey...activity" the regent says, sitting down at the table with a few of the local leadership

"the current business owner is doing what she can but said she never learned the full recipe"

"Oh... I'm sorry to hear that, both for the loss of life and the loss of the recipe. Hopefully she can replicate it because this could be a great ticket to the rest of the universe."

Kay wilts a little bit at the mention of the deaths. "Yeah, we're a lot worse off without them now. But we're doing our best." He perks back up as more beer arrives. "But trust me, whenever she comes out with another batch, you guys will be the first to know. But for now, let's see what kind of stuff Gundrun's got to offer."

Daitrij gets herself an extra bottle Ufyuin punch, for research. Before grabbing a beer from home. "That is all so sad. Shouldn't my mood go up when I drink?" Daitrij isn't used to alcohol. So one or two beer in a short time can already make her slightly drunk. "A beer from home. That is a pleasant surprise Stev. Damn, I guess after throwing out Mytikas' money left and right I have to work for free for the rest of my life." She laughs and points at Kay's pavis. "To think that I came to both of those meetings with only my dress and no protective gear. That could have gone wrong I guess. Haha, but Ognyena would have stepped in to protect her worshipper. One of her only believers who lives abroad." The first beer goes down like nothing, as fast as the punch she already had. Her nimble fingers grab a second beer. And as no glass is needed she simply raises the bottle. Tears and laughter mixing while she speaks. "To Eli and Carmen for going out of life before we could finish Carmen's vision of Mytikas and bring Eli's delicious drink to everyone. You will be missed. To our regent who was crazy enough to bring me as a lead diplomat to our first real negotiations with a Khan, could have gone worse." She says laughing with tears running down her cheeks. "To Mr. Handsome, uhm, Andisom, Andisom was the name, right? Stev, to you and your men, thank you for being here. Keep the flame in your heart and do good wherever you go. To the people that worked their asses of to make all of this happen and to you Kay for saving the day. I still want to see that suit in action tho." Daitrij takes a long sip out of her beer and leans back to enjoy the evening. Just this once she wants to relax and don't think about tomorrow.

“Mr Handsome? That’ll need to go on the outside of my mech from now on.”

Stev laughs and gives Daitrij a salute with his own beer.

“Thanks to you all for being able to talk that crazy looking lady down and making it so I didn’t have to bury any of my boys or girls.”

"That was all teamwork. But don't spell my name wrong. You won't just put the Mr. Handsome on your Mech, right?" Normally Daitrij would have blushed. But her face is already on its way to resemble a tomato, at least when it comes to color. The alcohol makes her laugh more and talk more about everything. And she didn't even drink that much. She looks at Kay with a wide smile on her face. "So,there you have it Mr. Posterboy. Us two getting a drink together. Good job Kay, thanks for saving your damsel in distress."

“Think the Mech needs to say Daitrij’s Mr Handsome? If you insist, but if your significant other sees it you will have some explaining to do.”

He says the last bit with a sing-song voice, gently mocking but with a smile to hopefully lessen the embarrassment.

Kay's buzzing fairly hard even after a few drinks, not enough to really be drunk but having not drank for 2 months, and just being generally dehydrated. His tolerance is almost nothing. "At least she doesn't call you Posterboy, I swear if that actually catches on I'm gonna be pissed. But fuck yeah, now everyone goes back safe and soundish." He turns over to Daitrij after her comment. "I know right? Ask and you shall receive apparently. But nah, I didn't save shit. You did most of the legwork to actually get us there and would have been fine. I'm just the asshole who came in and started throwing offers around. You did awesome too."

She starts to giggle and laugh at Stev's comment. "Aren't you the one who travels around? Saving a world here and there. I guess you have the explaining to do every once in a while when you find a girl that wants to stay. But do you have your Mech down here anyway?" Still laughing and more red than ever she turns to Kay. "I have no problem doing the legwork when I know there is someone who is going to save the day. The downside is that I am the one who has to explain to the Regent how I was able to throw down so much money down her throat in such a short amount of time. I mean Artema is happy, the people are happy and we are the keeper of peace. But now the poster... the, uhm, the one with the uhm small tin can suit has to work in some metal mines. I am sorry, that was bad, and I guess it wasn't even funny."

"Well...someone's gotta be irresponsible with our money. And I humbly accept that position. " Still grinning at Daitrij even after she trails off. "Nah, it's fine. Don't worry about it. You're cute when you get all flustered anyway."

"Flustered? Me?" She tries to act overly hurt and angry. But she can't she is way past that right now. She can only laugh and smile. The alcohol and also the easing pressure give her a feeling of happiness. For once, she doesn't care what the future will hold. What new trials Ognyena has prepared for her. She just wants another glass of Ufyuin punch. "I really need to analyze this drink. Can't be to hard to find out how Eli made it. He was limited in ingredients anyway But damn that tastes so good. We should make it a tradition to have a drink when we achieve something important."

He leans forward towards the table before righting himself. "Woah, maybeI should slow down. Ooooor, I could double down. Who knowsthe next time I can do something like this?" He pulls himself out of his head and slaps his hand on the table. "Yes! I am about it, I love it. But the analysis part sounds like a lot of complex shit so I'll leave that to the smart people. But, when the time comes to drink the supply away, I'm your fuckin guy."

(the light mechs would be in orbit, but the heavy mech and the Driade would be down here still, they take longer to load up)

(I was thinking of imprinting my hand onto Stev's mech. But I guess the material won't get any kind of burn mark easily. It would be like a keepsake and blessing from Ognyena at the same time. For Stev to keep bringing good to the world. ) "Damn, why does everything feel so weird. I should stop drinking or else, I don't know..." "Haha, yeah I won't ask you to help me analalyziz this thingy. Don't move so much please, you make me dizzy. I will never reach the restroom alone, should I need one. Did I say this out loud? Don't get hurt, anyone. I guess I am out of business today. Unless you want to end up a monster." Daitrij leans back, trying to relax in her seat and keeping her head steady. She stops drinking, for now.

(what about paint?)

(that would work I'd say)

(If painted it would be looking like this, I guess. Daitrij is probably better than my Paint skills. So the circle stands not just for eternity but also resembles Ognyena's O. Then there is the flame and Daitrij's hand. The hand shows that the blessing was made through Daitrij and not by Ognyena herself.)

Leaning back and forth, Kay reaches for another beer. "Ok, two more and I'm done." He downs the drink and picks up another one. "Ok, two more and I'm done." Before he can finish the next one, he leans back down on the table and rests his head on his hat. "Ok, maybe I'm done."

Stev stands up, wobbly on his feet but he manages to stay upright. “If the lady with the silver tongue wants to see the mech, she shall see the mech! Boys, get that lighter to land over here once the Bugstomper is loaded up. Boys! Dammit guys, are you even listening?” (edited)

The soldiers outside have relaxed with some Ufyuin punch of their own and are having a laugh at the conversation they can hear from inside.

Eventually the message is relayed to the cargo lighter crew and the lighter drops down where the shuttle had parked earlier.

Half looking up at the mech, with half his face still buried in his hat, a muffled voice comes out. "That's a biiiiig...what'd you call it Daitrij? Tin can? Yeah! That's a big fuckin can."

Daitrij gets wide eyes when she sees the Mech. She needs some soldiers to keep standing still, as Kay is not of big help in that department. "That is huge. Wow. Tomorrow when I can move everything the way I want to again. Stev, would you like me to bless that enormous tin can of yours?"

He visibly wilts.

"Actually, Wescott has already done that. Draconis follows Auguana, so before battle the mechs and soldiers are given a blessing in their name. I'm not sure what a blessing from you would do to that one... religion isn't something I've worried about until recently."

He quickly tries to explain.

"It was really weird, the first time I fought for Draconis. Wescott did the blessing and somehow my connection to the mech I was using changed. Everything just seemed to work a little better than it should. My training from before that allowed me to shoot a standard gun and get a little more out of it without having to make any upgrades... well the blessing did the same sort of thing. I really don't want to upset Auguana and lose that connection, no matter how cool I think it would be to have you bless the mech as well."

He then looks at Kay and Daitrij, trying to gauge their reactions. (edited)

Kay half shrugs his shoulders. "Not the weirdest thing I've heard. I don't take no offense or nothing by it. Hell, I should be dead twice over and can make things appear out of nowhere, but something seems to be watching out for my ass. So who am I to say what gods are or aren't out there."

Daitrij nods throughout Stev's explanations. And then lays a hand on his shoulder. "This is all I need to know. Someone watches over you. Someone you trust and I hope would do his bidding. There is no reason to think if there is a better deity. I think one should never do that and no one would find an answer to this anyway. I won't bless you or your Mech as that isn't needed. I wish you best of luck on all your travels Stev." That was about every straight word she could get out of her. Swaying she turns to Kay. Looking like she ate a basket of lemons. "Well someone brought you back from the dead and for the last two weeks. Since we met. I've been praying to Ognyena to protect you. Every night. Every single one dumbass. Maybe she saved you like she did with me. You saw how the impossible happened. You where there with me. I will get some sleep now." She walks back, but not in a straight line. After a few meters she is sorry that she said it. But she needs sleep. And that was as much as she wanted to show her feeling for him.

Kay looks back to where Daitrij walked off and then back to Stev a couple of times. "Did I say something wrong?"

Stev shrugs in response before throwing an arm around Kay’s shoulder. “Sounds to me like she cares about you, Mr Posterboy.”

Totally failing to hide any sort of surprise. "Really?!" "Shit, I just said that out loud didn't I? Fuck, think of something." "Well, she is a doctor. She prays for and, I think, cares about most people under her care. And I do some pretty stupid shit, so I need all the help I can get. That's what that was for right?" "Saved it." (edited)

“Sure. That’s totally what what she meant. She prayed for you every single night because you’re just one of a bunch of people she has looked after. That sounds totally plausible.”

The look on his face says that he is being overtly sarcastic.

He puts up his hands defensively. "Alright alright, I get it. I just doubt it because the last time we got close, she got all freaked out and avoided me for a while. And I care about her, so I don't want to do that to her again. So I figured it'd be best if I just let it lie."

Stev laughs.

“Looks like you got a sand lizard on the hook. She’s pulling back because whatever is on the other end of the line, that’s you, is unknown. That’s the way of sand fishing.”

Looking like he got maybe every third word out of that. "What the fuck is a sand lizard?"

“Lizard. Small reptile from the wastelands of Rawhani. Lives in really dry conditions so it has this weird way of conserving water. Had to catch them on training runs to survive.”

Stev grimaces at a sudden memory. “I’ll warn you now, sand lizard blood has nothing on that punch cocktail we’ve been guzzling.”

Nods like he at least understands what the lizard is "Ok, so what does a lizard have to do with Daitrij?"

“You caught her attention somehow and she has no idea what is down that track if she follows it. It’s normal behaviour.”

“Dad used to tell me the story of how he and my mum met. They were both from the same city but had never met until he physically bumped into her going into a shop. The look she gave him started a phase he liked to call ‘hunting’ for his soulmate. He likened it to catching a sand lizard... she said he was the lizard and mum slowly dragged him in.” (edited)

"And you think, that she has me on the proverbial 'hook'? I mean, she does. But I just don't know how to go about it or what to do."

Stev looks to where Daitrij had wandered.

“You don’t have to do anything if you don’t want to. Otherwise, play the game. Meet up with her, show you’re interested. Hells, you know her better than I do.”

Kay keeps looking back to where she wandered to. "Damn it, I want to go tell her I'm sorry. But we're both a little fucked up and that's just a bad idea right?" "I mean, I want to. But I don't know if now's the best time. She seemed kinda mad. But I should at least tell her I'm sorry right?"

“Sure, get it out into the open. That’s a good strategy.”

He claps Kay on the back and smiles.

“I’ve gotta go to Phyrica and then up to the Pillar, so keep yourself and Daitrij safe till next time, okay?”

Kay nods to him. "Alright, take care of yourself Stev. I'll try my best to make sure we meet up again. Hopefully by that time we'll have some more punch too."

(re-roll token for all of you for the good RP)

Stev waves as he steps up into the lighter.

"Don't let her get away!"

The massive cargo door closes and Stev is lost to sight.

(Thanks Neko! )

Kay waves Stev off until the doors close. "I'll try my best." He leans back against the table, taking a few more minutes to look up into the night sky. "Out of all the planets I could have gotten exiled to. I got sent to this one. It's gotta be more than coincidence right? Or am I just incredibly lucky?" After about 10 minutes of losing himself in his own thoughts, he sits back up, puts on his hat, grabs his pavis, and heads off to sleep for the night. (Woo, thanks!)

(we can split off into personal threads again. I think we've done all we're here to do)

(Thanks for the fun times guys! Woooo for no shots fired!)

(We live to fuck up another day!)

(you guys ok for me to archive this?)

(Send it)

(sure, a milestone of Heran history)