The pelgason mission team begins to assemble on Gudrun to discuss what they hope to learn during the trip

Robert stocks up the Wanderlust with the help of his crew, expecting a few more passengers and the inevitable state visit upon their arrival at Pelasgon. Once he is done, he sits down, trying to teach chess to some of his less busy crew members. Mechanical shrieks from the Ashen One crew fill the ship.

Hailey joins after just a bit. “Ya know, I never liked chess. Too slow and simple to me”

Robert laughs, greeting Hailey. "That doesn't surprise me in the least. You've too much energy for a game like this. I like how it allows for a pure competition between two minds, but fast it is not." Standing, Robert helps her carry her things to her berth. "I'm glad to have you here. I'd hate to be doing this alone. You can be the representative for the cultural side of our nation, I couldn't think of anyone better."

She thanks him for the hand. “Well thanks! Glad to be coming along. If nothing else, had fun last time hahah. I may not be much in terms of trained diplomatics, but I do know my stuff. And I couldn’t think of anyone better than the welcoming face of the UNW to lead us there.” She pauses a moment. “So, we waiting on anyone else?”

(Svenka was meant to be coming but they're out fishing IRL right now. Can we just say they are coming along and retcon it if they come back to the game and decide not to?)

(Oh yeah that’s right)

(Yeah that’s fine with me. I think we are coming up on the end of the trip anyway)

(The irl trip not this one)

"Alright, everything's aboard" the teamster at the platform dock says, heaving after his labor is complete

Robert takes his seat at the helm and maneuvers the Wanderlust away from the station, then begins the spike trip to Pelasgon.

(Back now, but about to crash - Svenka is indeed wanting to be along!)

Svenka arrived to the ship late, but in time for departure, with a drone carrying a large number of books and supplies (including other drones) she paused only momently to examine the Ashen Ones, curious but polite, before finding her quarters. Once aboard, she messages Robert to ensure he is aware. She spends the first part of the voyage in her quarters.

Hailey gets settled into her cabin and keeps herself busy with maintenance and gear upkeep. She also takes the opportunity to meet the crew during the trip.

Pelgason, as ever, is the brown, slowly revitalizing world its dirty seas the same color as the land. The sixty strong fleet is spread out in a planetary englobement, and two fast patrol boats begin heading your direction

Robert signals the ships in system with a wide beam transmission. "Pelasgon vessels, this is Robert Tanzer of the UNW. I am here on a diplomatic mission. We are willing to be boarded to begin discussions."

"We can dispense with that formality this time. We will escort you planetside, to meet with Commissar Valor. He is being informed of your presence in system now"

"Let him know I look forward to seeing him again. I'll follow your escort in." Robert begins to tail the patrol boats.

You’re brought down outside the main city with its blocky cement dwelling blocks and capital building. The carnival grounds and theater district are splashes of color against an otherwise all consuming brown/gray

Svenka comes to the bridge and watches the process of flying the ship in. She is taking in the strange new planet, while trying to look as reserved as possible. She is wearing a pressed shirt and slacks and a piece of traditional Taros jewelry. She nods to Robert if he happens to look over.

Robert slips his data siphon into his finger when he has a moment. He turns to his two fellow ambassadors. "You're both capable individuals so I'll keep it short. This is the last time we get to talk to eachother without the understanding that we are probably being recorded. We represent a great opportunity and a massive threat to these people, and they'll be as keen to get information on us as we are to do the same to them. Don't share any confidential information, and don't mention anything to do with our military capabilities. Always assume you are being monitored. Hopefully next time we are here we can relax, but there's no reason to take chances." Having said his peace, Robert lowers the ships ramp and leads the trio onto the planet.

Svenka nods and follows, a drone close behind.

Commissar valor and a forty strong guard of motor rifle troopers are waiting at the base of the ramp. He breaks into a wide smile when he sees Hailey among the delegation

Svenka walks with Robert, her hands behind her back and her curiosity closely guarded.

"Commissar Valor! A pleasure to see you again! I'm glad to see you're still doing well. I'm sure you remember Hailey, and this is Svenka Vilnovha."

“Ah one of your famed Taros. You’re a first on this world my dear it is a pleasure to have you with us. Now I must admit I am unsure where to begin thing for the day. What can I do to assist you as your liaison?”

“I am glad to be along for this meeting, I admit I know little of your people, but I look forward to our mutually learning. Among the Taros, we would always start any cross-clan meeting with a meal, big or small.” Svenka reaches into her bag being held by her drone and produces a bottle. Her hand almost imperceptibly shaking in nervousness. She gently presents the bottle to the Commissar “This was my Father’s favourite Taros whiskey, and it is mine as well. I cannot promise you will also love it. May our clans be as one tribe and continue in peace.” She takes a step back and gives a deep nod, breaking eye contact

“If that is your custom we will have a drink then, before talks are to begin”

You’re brought to a space port conference room. Kilometers away in the sprawling complex you see a rocket taking off, full of supplies for the fleet above

(Sorry I've been totally afk, got family in from out of town) Hailey flashes a smile at the Commissar. "It's a pleasure to see you again Commissar Valor....and the city." She enjoys the ride after briefly greeting the Commissar, taking in the view of the city. She watches the rocket as it flies off.

"What brings you all back to Pelgason so soon?" he says, pouring a measure of the drink for each of you, looking to Svenka to ensure he is doing it properly, or not violating some unknown alien taboo

Svenka smiles slightly and relaxes somewhat “I am not one to stick too closely to tradition, Commissar, and I am not looking to ritualize this meeting by any means. I apologize that I may have been too formal in my initial introduction - this is the first time I have been this far from home and I am both nervous and very excited at the opportunity to meet and share with your people. The bottle is a token of friendship and I am happy to share in this with you.”

He pours a generous helping for all of you, and for his two bodymen. Hailey and Robert have seen them before. "so the purpose of this visit, is....A social call? Or are you finally taking me up on my offer to see the city?"

(If I recall the unity meeting ended with basically getting as complete a read as possible on these guys so some educated guesses can be made on the consequences of giving them spike drives. Or not)

(I’m holding back from saying more as this is Robert’s show )

(Yeah. Just tossing it in there since it’s been a couple irl weeks )

(And id nearly forgot myself)

“It’s primarily a diplomatic thing, but I say, why can’t it be all three”

"I'm here on behalf of the UNW government this time. I brought up the idea of supplying spike drive technology to your people. There was understandably some reticence to hand this technology to a polity we know very little about. We're tasked with learning about your nation and delivering a report on it to my people, to determine the consequences of this gift of technology to our region of space. I hope you don't take offence, we simply like to be sure about things before we do them."

“It’s what we would do if the situation was reversed. The apology and explanation is not needed. So I’m to give you the sales pitch am I? Well, the politburo has tasked me with this. I will do whatever I can”

"I see no reason to make this all about business. How about a tour? I'm fascinated by your society, I'd love to see how it runs."

“I’m along more as observer, loosely on behalf of the Taros people, but more just as myself. And I would also very much like to see your world.”

“For me at least, I find the best way to learn that kind of thing is through doing. We can talk business and have a good time both at once”

"Indeed we can" he says, and then downs his drink. "Well, I have a staff car waiting, I'd be happy to bring you around, and show you how things work around here"

"Communism isn't the specter our ancestors on Terra claimed it to be, not with the advancements we have now. I applaud all of you for being willing to look at the boogeyman, as it were"

"We'd love for you to take us around for a while. I hope that I get to see your praise of your system made real before us, our job here will be a simple one if it's all true." Robert grins. "Lead the way!"

Your loaded into the car, and begin heading toward the government sector of town, noted by its many statues of grim faced men and women holding industrial tools, and farming implements. "You asked about psychics last time you were with us. I thought we would begin with the Economics Planning Department of The People. They use precognitives to peer into the future and see where shortfalls may occur. They have saved us from economic disaster many times"

"I was hoping to meet the precognitives. We are looking for more ways to integrate our MES sensitive population into the function of our state, and the use of precogs is a brilliant idea."

“I would be interested as well, if we are able to meet them - Psychics are unheard of among our people, but I have recently taken an interest in the technologies surrounding the use of psychic powers.“

He nods, and floors the vehicle through busy intersections to get you to the meeting hall. Once there, the building at the end of a statue lined boulevard, the red banners of the Pelgason Community Party on every balcony and large window, he escorts you inside, where dozens of clerks run about, all carrying stacks of economic reports

Svenka is actively watching the activity - a far cry from the work out on the fringes of society she has been accustomed to. “Pardon my ignorance, Commissar, what exactly is Communism?”

"Well, simply put, it is a society in which all property is publicly owned and each person works and is paid according to their abilities and needs." he says, "There are no

rich men, but no beggars either"

"Everything is shared"

"I'd like to visit one of the precogs, if you'd allow it."

“What does that mean for crime? Does hay decrease as well? And I’d like to see the precogs as well”

"They are inside, and will be called for so you can speak with them before the meeting. The audience will need to be short, i hope you understand. "

"And Ms. Clements, what did you mean by crime? We do have those who steal from or kill their fellow man, as society has been dealing with since we took our first steps into organizing ourselves. We do have fewer incidences of both"

“Ok, yeah. That’s pretty much what I meant. And yes, we understand. Can’t show up off the cuff and expect everyone to stop and meet with you hahah”

"They are tired quite frequently. Seeing into the future is draining to even the healthiest of their number. But please, continue inside, my aide will show you to the conference room" He gestures for one of the two bodyguards normally accompanying him to bring you inside. Inside, you turn right before you can see much of the grand hall, and are brought to a conference room. It is very large, and well appointed. Oil paintings of various Pelgason Communist Party leaders line the walls, each of them looking noble or heroic in their own way. (edited)

“Did you have much planetary conflict to get to this point?”

"Amongst ourselves yes. The working class rose up, and seized the means of production for themselves. Now, we work for one another, and not for the enrichment of those at the top"

Svenka is clearly in awe “And you don’t have problems with people fighting against this system - all work together for the common goal?”

"Of course!" he says enthusiastically

"Everyone for the people! and for themselves"

(Assume Svenka is carrying on a very interested and nerdy conversation with the Commissar on the virtues of communism while they walk along - she is maybe a little too engaged in the conversation)

The precogs enter the meeting room. There are three. One has a brass cog necklace. The other a scythe and leaves of wheat, and the last, a hammer and a strong fist grasping it. Their robes are as brown as the dirt and seas outside.

Two are male. The hammer necklace is a woman.

Svenka stops her spirited conversation and looks at the 3 in awe “Thank you for seeing us. I don’t know the appropriate custom here, I am Svenka Vilnovha of Gudrun. I’ve only met one other Psychic that I was aware of...” She trails off and looks somewhat distant

Robert extends his hand in front of him towards the precogs in greeting. "Its an honour to meet you. We've heard how important your department is for continued economic success, I must admit I've wanted to meet you since we last came to this system."

“We have some time for questions , and are happy to answer. Please proceed”

"How many precognitives work in this department? Are they all here voluntarily?"

“Everyone showing MES is required to work for the state but we are compensated for our efforts with priority for goods in short supply. Despite our efforts it does happen at times”

“We would prefer not to divulge the size of our staff to a foreign power, friendly as you seem”

“Is your power selective or focused? Do you see intent or potential outcomes? Do you know, for example, if I will drop this glass, or do you see the likelihood that I will?” Svenka is clearly engaged after her research on the way here

“It would depend how far into the future we look. The further we go, the more it is just a likelihood, but there is more time for something to change the outcome”

“And you use technology to help focus your abilities? If you can say.”

“We do not need technology to see into the future. It comes from within”

“Have you ever tried using this ability to enhance navigation in space?” (edited)

“We cannot leave the gravity well. We do not have spike drive technology”

“Do you see the likelihood that you will have it in future and the possibilities from there?”

“We Have a meeting soon where we will be required to oracle. We cannot answer you right now, honored diplomat”

“I thank you for answering my curious questions - I will defer to my companions for anything further. Be well”

Hailey chuckles and looks at Svenka, then back to the precogs. “I think my colleague here has covered all my questions. But I’m sure you already knew that hahah....sorry I’m sure you get that a lot”

"Assuming our nation's relations improve, would your organisation be willing to send delegates to help us set up a similar system? I imagine precognitive assistance is useful in almost every application."

“We could demonstrate how the meetings work, or provide the types of questions we are usually asked, if that may be of some assistance for you”

( every time they oracle they have to commit effort. If they get tired out now they won’t have any for later)

"I'm sure we would all be interested in seeing you at work."

Commissar Valor produces three viewing gallery passes after running out of the room for a few moments to secure them, the psychic's permission evidently what he was waiting on to offer them

"We won't keep you any longer. I'm sure being able to watch you at work will answer any other questions we have. Thank you for talking with us today." Robert shakes their hands in turn.

When you shake the woman's hand, you feel a slight charge flow through your body. In your mind you hear her whisper

When you hold a man's life in one hand, so too, will your life be held in his

(That's ominous )

Robert gives the barest of nods to the woman, otherwise showing no sign of having heard the message.

“Thank you for your time” Svenka follows Robert’s lead, shakes their hands and follows.

They are all quite pleasant upon leaving, and Commissar Valor arrives to bring you up to the gallery. Below, in a hall predominated by the colors red, mahogany and gold, a general, a commissar in an even more elaborate uniform than Valor's, A bookish looking minister, and grizzled looking workers leader all sit , two on each side, to a central figure, a powerfully built stateman, missing an eye, and some of his lip, the remaining flesh healing in an involuntary cruel snear.

One by one, the precognitives file in, and take their places in chairs facing the long table

Robert spares a moment for his companions, quietly whispering to them "They've certainly got the ritual of it all down pat. Watch closely, we can learn a lot from this."

Svenka nods, utterly transfixed on watching the session.

The session begins with some lighthearted banter among them, the psychics remaining quiet, until a list of questions is brought out. The questions themselves are very specific, concerned with (This time) shortfalls in grain production, extraction of iron ore from the northern slopes, and the arrival of a critical component for the operation of their floating shipyard. It seems for the time being operations will continue normally, but they will need to dip into grain reserves a year from now if more land is not cultivated this spring. A list of action items, and future goods needing review is presented, so the psychics may prepare themselves, and their portion of the meeting adjourns.

(So it was a few short, simple questions for each of them. They just meet often enough to allow a constant review process)

Robert looks over to Commissar Valor. "Thank you for facilitating this, it was very enlightening. Who was the statesman present during the meeting? He gave off the aura of a grizzled veteran moreso than a politician." (edited)

“That is the party chairman. He fought in the unification wars as a boy, sixty years ago or so now.”

“The injury makes him look cruel, and he can be at times, but it’s all done for the greater good. It’s easy to explain the methods when you have precognitives mapping outcomes”

"Can you explain the unification wars to me? I'd also like to meet him if you could arrange it."

(Sorry ive been silent guys, was traveling last two days) Hailey follows the others’ lead, shaking hands and listening in respectfully on the meeting. She nods, also wanting to hear about the wars.

"Sixty years ago we united from city states to a planet. Not everyone came willingly, and not everyone embraced the brotherhood that is communism. Some resisted, as always"

"I should let the man himself get into the details of his career "

"I'd like to hear it from him if he has the time. I'm sure we could learn a lot from his experiences."

"As would I. Best to hear straight from the source. I'd be happy to wait until he is available"

"You're here to get a read on our world , it does none of us good to have you come back or wait. I'll have a dinner scheduled for you tonight. Do you think you'd find something to amuse yourselves in the city with for a few hours?"

"Some time to explore on our own sounds ideal my friend."

"That sounds like fun to me, thank you. "

Svenka nods and shakes the Commissar’s hand “thank you for showing us all of this. It has really been an experience.”

Youre escorted back to the front of the hall of labor, and a car is pulled around front. The driver jumps out, and tosses the keys to robert, before saluting and standing aside

“You know your way around town?”

"Map's loaded in the center comm! wanted to give you privacy" the driver says, overhearing

(basically its like the year 2600 version of apple maps, lists attractions and stuff near you)

"Let's just say I don't mind a bit of exploration." Robert nods at the driver after catching the keys. "Passengers choice. Where to?"

Svenka gets in the back of the car and does a discreet scan for any recording devices

(notice wis if youre just doing a visual inspection)

(Was planning to use a scanner as well)

(program int then)

(just trying to figure out what applies

(8)

You do not sense, or detect any listening devices. There is a positioning beacon on the vehicle.

A robotic voice sounds in your comms

“So, where to? I would love to see the industrial areas, but I would expect that isn’t standard sightseeing.”

(Should we be checking out the map to see what’s around, or just keep it general?)

(If you give me a category I can generate some places)

(I’ve got stuff ready that you -could- see but it would be a massive wall of text you’ll probably not use even 10% of)

“That would be fun. I think some kind of marketplace would b cool to see as well, adding to that”

Several industrial and commercial sites begin populating with a few dial twists

(Should we go on or see what Robert says

(He can always redirect when he’s on)

The industrial sites show some factories and some large farms along with the food processing center in the middle of them There is a large market and a handful of specialty shops nearby along with a social club that those in party leadership seem to enjoy

(He did say passengers' choice)

^^

(You’re right

"Ok, so that social club is definitely something we should check out. Heh, more like socialist club, ammaright friends, hahah. Lets go check out one of the factories for now though"

Svenka doesn’t get it and looks confused and maybe slightly annoyed

(Hailey is whipping out the zingers this mission hahaha)

"I wouldn't mind seeing how the working class is faring under this system. A factory sounds perfect. We can try and grab some food at the club after."

The factory district is on the western side of town. The buildings are each very large and a robust public transit system has a terminal at the end of the long and wide boulevard. Cargo skiffs zip from nearby warehouses full of raw materials and in a few cases shifts of workers heading around the industrial park

Rows of tractors, crates of household products and even some new ground cars are all stacked neatly at assembly points for distribution across the planet.

Svenka watches intently, recording the comings and goings of the workers and getting a feel for how the city operates. She pays special attention to how happy and healthy the people look.

They are dirty and many look a bit on the thin side, the wiry strength that comes with exertion and incomplete nutrition

Svenka’s face darkens and she says under her breath “Not perfect.”

“I don’t know what I hoped to see, but I would have concerns about the health of the ones who work for a living here.”

"Not the most promising thing I've seen today, that. I want to learn more about their farming situation before passing any judgement, but something is definitely going wrong on this world."

"I wonder if we could visit their agricultural department, or even a farm? We have to know whether this is a human rights violation or the result of sharing a meagre supply of food."

“I would have concerns that there are others more equal under this system - I have seen the working class often get the worst of it and this appears to be no different, despite the pretty words and rhetoric.” Svenka attempts to find local agricultural areas using the onboard computer

“Agreed. They seem like nice people, but last time we were here, on eof them did tell me I couldn’t bring in any type of, anything that showed an alternative that might make people want to lean towards a different type of government”

"I agree this place has issues. I just don't want to make a bad call. Our report to the council will determine the course of all these people's lives. I don't want to get it wrong." (edited)

“In fairness, this planet doesn’t exactly seem to be the most fertile. Spike drives might allow them better farming off world”

“Or it could lead to the spread of this”

"That's one of the questions we have to ask ourselves. Is it in the best interests of our people, their own people and this region of space to give them the technology to travel between star systems? Would we improve their standard of living or will it just lead to more of this? How likely are they to ally with the UNW or work against it? I want you all to give a report of your own on this place at the next council, I think the decision will be better if the council hears from a variety of perspectives."

The agriculture area is a large food processing facility. You can smell the rye in the air as you get close- the factory churning out endless loaves of the dense bread. Pelgason’s original settlers had a choice when it came to stocking the seed bank in their colony ship and you can see here that tradition guided that choice

The farmers in the fields are using modern equipment but the crops do look a bit droopy and sad. There is a strong smell of fertilizer and soil treatment as they try to coax what they can out of the ground

Robert attempts to find some kind of farm leader to talk to about their crop.

There is one woman in the midst of a pack of laborers, and you see their small meeting break, and they return to duties

Robert approaches, a genial expression on his face. "Hello! Do you run this place?"

"I run a team of workers. How can I assist you?"

"I was hoping you could tell me a bit about your work here. How is the farming situation on this world? Is your farm able to keep up with demand?" (edited)

She sadly shakes her head "We are doing everything we can. We are a capable people. We will make the planet work with us"

(Would our technologies help with better hydroponics and the like?)

(They're not doing anything hydroponically as far as you can tell right now, so its certainly an option)

"Thanks for your time, I won't hold you up any longer. I have faith in your ability to tame this world."

Robert turns to his companions. "Anywhere else you'd like to visit, or should we get some lunch before we return to state visits and the like?"

Svenka looks up from tapping away on her datapad “Food would be good”

Hailey perks up. "Sounds good to me! Let's check out that place we saw earlier"

In addition to the social club there are a number of cafes and public eating houses closer to the inner city, where'd youd just come from. Almost any kind of fare is available you see that for the average citizen, the prices of even a simple meal out would be very high

(for you guys no problem)

“Spike technology would be a boon to these people. If they are indeed working towards equality it would help ensure all bellies are full. If not, It would just drive any existing corruption further. I would certainly support trials under our guidance, but I would have concerns in the technology being handed over.” Svenka looks a bit self conscious “That would be my opinion at least.”

“Same here, but I think either way we should do something to help. If things are worse than we think behind he curtain here, it’s kind of a loose-loose. But hey, food. What do you guys wanna do? I definitely wanna check that club thing we saw on the way here, but if you guys wanna check out another one of these, we could always split up”

“Splitting up sounds like a bad idea” Svenka says coldly “The club would give us a good picture of how the ruling class lives.”

“Why? Can’t handle yourself haha?” Hailey grins, teasing.

“If someone seeks to do us harm, no, likely not. Better to err on the side of caution”

“Caution’s no fun but all right. To the club it is”

"The club sounds fine to me. We'd get to see how a different social group lives."

The car plots a route to the inner city again, to the social club. The building is not a neon pleasure palace like you've seen on other worlds but a stone faced lunge (edited)

lounge The furniture inside is neat, tidy, and almost everyhing has some sort of leather or plush covering on it. There are dozens of books, and a small fire heats the room pleasantly

"Fancy. Is there a bar?" Robert looks around. "I want to see what their alcohol is like. For the report."

(there is, thats probably one of the main features)

“Oh. Oh I like this. But yeah, Robert’s right. It’s kinda our responsibility to see how good the food and drink is”

Robert walks slowly towards the bar, taking in the feel of the room. Reaching the counter, he waits patiently for the bartender.

The bartender is wearing a junior officer's uniform though without the heavy wool overcoat. "Good evening sir may I assist you in your beverage needs?"

"What's the most common drink you hand out here? I'll have one of those."

"Vokda" he laughs, and pours a dirty clear beverage into the glass, filling it almost to the brim

“Of course. Pour me one too please. You guys serve any food here?”

“Same, please.” Svenka is taking in the surroundings cautiously

(How much attention is a Taros getting?)

(Whoever is Near you is paying attention but they’re not screaming like HEY GUYS WEIRDO OVER HERE

(I don’t think any of us are super nonchalant looking)

(Lol)

Robert takes the drink and swallows a healthy amount before thanking the bartender. He enjoys the burn in his throat before looking at the scene around him, focusing on the people.

There are men in smoking jackets and women in day gowns, you do not see much visible display of wealth on them

(little or no jewelery, ect)

Svenka walks around the room, Vokda steeling her resolve and awkwardly greets the patrons “Hello, I am Svenka Vilnovha, we are visiting from off world and trying to understand more about your people - It seems that life can be very tough here - how do you feel?” (edited)

(It’s canon that it’s called Vokda now)

You get lots of replies about how they’re happy the world is productive and few have complaints

What you do hear is good natured grumbling about the lack of more to do

"Would you be interested in travelling to other worlds?" Something seems to spark in Svenka

“The party would need to approve us leaving the planet. They likely will not without further cooperation”

“That isn’t what I asked though, would YOU be interested if given the chance and of course if the party approved ?”

They’re clearly very uncomfortable by this conversation. “Pelgason is our home. We would never leave it’s embrace

“Of course not - you have built a beautiful home here.” Svenka says sincerely. “Enjoy your evening”

They seem a bit relieved as you walk away

Svenka discreetly talks to Robert and Hailey “So... they certainly live in some sense of... fear of “the party” - or they lack the kind of individualism that we might have. I don’t know if it’s insidious as much as utilitarian - they work for the common good and don’t put much thought in to it... would be my read of the populace. Any luck with food?”

"We need to be careful what we ask the people here. I don't want to put anyone's life in danger because we asked them too many questions. Maybe we should see this leader of theirs soon. I want to ask him some questions."

"I... didnt meant to scare them. I didnt think I would be sparking controversy."

"Imagine if the future of your entire civilisation was on the line and dependent on a group of foreigners making a judgment call based on their experiences. Imagine that these foreigners decide not to share their revolutionary technology with your civilisation, and your leaders decide it's because you said the wrong thing to them when they talked to you. It's a terrible position to be in."

"We have to tread lightly here."

“I keep coming back to the guided trials, and I think there are other technologies we could offer in trade to help improve the quality of life here. But I agree. I want to know more.”

(We can move to that scene whenever you’re ready)

(I’m ready when y’all are)

(Go for it)

The meeting room chosen for dinner, this evening, is a large hall made of stained oak timbers and the grey brick used for much of the construction here. A fireplace crackles pleasantly and a large spread of meat and produce is laid out for you. Most of it is easily identifiable

Svenka sits in a position to support Robert, but not front and centre. She is typing away on her datapad waiting for the meeting to start.

After a few moments the large door at the far northern side of the room open, as two protective detail guards open the door. THe large figure of the party chairman enters, his joints steaming and pumping as his augments allow him to move despite his injuries.

"Please! Sit" he says to all of you, with more kindness than his damaged face is capable of expressing

Commissar Valor is with him, slipping into the room in the chairman's wake

Hailey nonchalantly tries to take a spot near the Commissar as she sits, joining the others and watching the chairman intently.

He smiles noticing the chair next to him being pulled out, and you sitting down

It is evident he is wearing every medal or ribbon in his collection tonight. You do see that many of them are campaign badges or combat service medals

Robert takes a seat, settling into the chair for a brief moment. He gives Commissar Valor a friendly nod, then turns his attention to the Chairman. "Let's get the formal introductions out of the way. I'm Robert Tanzer. My chromatic friend here is Hailey Clements and our Taros companion is Svenka Vilnovha. We are honoured that you could make time for us on such short notice."

"It is not every day that honored guests from across the stars visit our humble workers paradise. I am pleased to meet all of you and hope your time here has been pleasant thus far"

Hailey gives a friendly nod as Robert introduces her. "It has, thanks. Very informative as well. We've already learned lots about your paradise, as you put it."

Some workers in finery begin laying out the first course which looks to be some smoked sausage, fried greens and a thick slice of the dense rye bread. Vodka and water are also laid out. He makes a point to thank each of the wait staff as the lay out the meal

"I'll cut right to the point, if you'd permit me to begin business so early in the meal"

"Business is why we're here. By all means, say what's on your mind."

(I'm getting an Obi-wan, "That's....why I'm here" vibe from Robert lol)

Svenka is tapping away on her datapad, looking frustrated at whatever she is working on. She suddenly stops, realizing she should be engaged in the meeting. She awkwardly puts her pad down, stuffs a bite of meat and fried greens into her mouth and sits at attention, chewing.

"Very good. Then I'll get right to it. We're needing spike drives. We wish not to be dependent on trade, or upon others for our home getting what it needs. I heard you went to the fields today, you've seen how hard my people have worked to try to get the fields to bloom. "

"Spike drives will assist us in finding a bread basket world to bring into our union, and will allow us to get the equipment and partnerships we need abroad, to make our system truly have enough for everyone"

Svenka finishes chewing and swallows, her confidence somewhat bolstered. “Chairman. Thank you for your hospitality and the hospitality of your people. You have clearly made strides in developing this unforgiving world to support your people. I praise the hard working nature that we have seen. I will leave Robert to speak more directly on the Spike drive matter, but I wanted to briefly discuss adjacent options. Your planet appears to be mineral rich - your factories create sturdy devices and vehicles. Your agricultural enterprises, on the other hand seem to require a great deal more work. Minerals are always of value, and I believe you might benefit from some of the more advanced hydroponics to help in growing additional foodstuffs. I know you don’t want to be reliant on trade, but spike drives or not, there is certainly value on offer from your people and value that could be offered by others to you. I would be happy to work further with your party to help drive efficiencies in the work you do.”

"We would then be reliant on your world for the parts, seeds, and expertise it takes to run this hydroponic system, for years, if not decades until we can do it for ourselves. You are a credit to your race, and if you have a heart, it is in the right place, but we simply cannot allow foreign interests to have a stake in our planet or its livelihood. I didn't fight to unify our world just for others to take it apart again"

“The key to any healthy relationship is mutual benefit. I would certainly not want to make you or your people reliant on anything additional. My people have a saying ‘put food in my hand and I rely on charity, teach me to hunt and I put food in my own hand’. I am not a good businesswoman, but I am one who recognizes the joy and bone crushing nature that is real work. There would certainly need to be some initial cooperation, but my primary aim would not be profits, but in providing you with additional tools to do what you and your people do best - work hard. From there you would have the ability to create your own seed farms and self sustain larger and more compact farms indefinitely. I’m sorry to push - I am not a diplomat, but a worker myself.” Svenka looks troubled “And this is indeed from the heart, I don’t do well with subterfuge.”

"I'm not against the doing business, or hard work, but I am against critical components early on, or a lack of our own knowledge being used against us.

“Fair enough, I have monopolized the conversation long enough!” Svenka laughs nervously “I will let the real discussion take place...” She eats purposely, delicately and listens to the conversation, shrinking unconsciously from the table

"Its clear to me that the spike drive will solve a number of your problems. A breadbasket world will go a long way to solving your food shortages once you can set it up and get the logistics in place. Were I making this decision solely on the basis of what is good for your people I would hand the technology to you right now." "This isn't the case. I come here as a representative of my people and I have to act in their interest despite that occasionally forcing me to take actions I otherwise wouldn't. I need to know that our polities will cooperate once you start travelling between stars. I need to be able to convince our government that providing this technology to you isn't going to be detrimental to the future of our own nation. What kind of assurances can you give me?"

He laughs heartily "What kind of assurances can I even give you? We will need to expand in order to colonize a bread basket world. You have seen the state of my main city, we have problems we need to correct here, and will have more than enough trouble supporting a new colony. If you're worried about a competing sphere of influence, that won't be happening until you, me...everyone in this room! is long gone, if that comes to pass at all!"

“Lording over this spike drive technology gives us more to fear of you than you us.”

“You want us to give over this technology, but you don’t want to work with us. You want to have the ability to spread out to the stars, but you don’t seem interested in developing any relationships with the people of the UNW. When it is suggested to make your case, you accuse us of lording this over you, when all we have done is offer a relationship, assistance and mutually-beneficial trade. Perhaps we should start again?”

He shrugs. “I do not see where you got that I would not work with you. I am suggesting however that our first steps into the void would be for our own stability”

"Your points are valid, Chairman. May I propose an idea? While your agricultural situation is something needing work, you have a capable military and fleet. There are many threats out there in space, threats to both our nation's. Were we to ally, or at least sign a mutual defence treaty, then our nation's would be able to cooperate against these threats, and both come out better for it. You would be free to undertake whatever steps you feel necessary to establish food security for your nation, and rather than being wary of eachother, our nation's would be able to work together." "The void is dark and dangerous. Especially after the Scream. It is good to have some friends out there, Chairman."

(The void is dark and full of terrors. It is known.)

“In addition to having us as a militaristic ally, the UNW always likes having big guns on its side. I’d say pretty confidently that something like this would surely reap more benefits than just spike drive. But, aside from that, in going out and exploring worlds and such, surely it’d be nice to have the universes greatest military on your side. “

“We could sign such a deal. I must caution you that outfitting our fleet with such drives will require us to modify every ship we own. It may be some time before a sizable fleet is able to assist you”

"I don't expect you to turn your fleet into a rapid stellar assault force overnight. The UNW fleet can hold its own against it's enemies, and we are in somewhat of a quiet period after a draining war. It will be some time before we are ready to move against the aliens to Galactic North. I fully expect you to uphold your responsibility to your people above all else." "I will be arguing the case to provide your people with spike drive technology when I return to the UNW. While I cannot promise that the motion will pass, as I am merely a member of our democracy and not it's ruler, I will attempt to persuade others to this view. In addition, I will give you the scans I took of a pristine and fertile world just one days spike travel from here. Your scientists can review the data while we sort out the spike drive issue."

"That is most appreciative. With a stable industrial and agricultural base, as your Taros friend so rightly put it, we have a vast mineral wealth here. We see no reason to withhold Pelgason's bounty just for ourselves, provided conditions are met to allow us to loosen up"

"That raises an interesting point. Are you open to trade between our polities? If so, would that be limited to tangible resources or would you allow cultural exchange as well?"

“Thank you for your understanding and willingness. All thee of us will be reporting out findings, and it will not go unnoted. “

"Cultural exchange would need to go through a vetting process here. We have some....sensitivities....that must be respected. I myself am heavily Orthodox, and am the first to say, we can be rigid, at times. "

“I’ve expressed some interest in cultural trade before. It is something I’d like to discuss when the time comes”

"As far as the trades of resources, if properly equipped, we would easily create a large tradepost here on Pelgason to do business with you"

(Sorry my messages are kind of behind here. I’ve got slow connection)

(Ill chill for a bit if you want to talk Hailey)

(No worries! I didnt even say you were typing! usually if i see that I'll stop) "For now, I think we have reached some solid first steps" (So to recap, his top priority is spike so they can get some better farmland. He is saying that benefits you because you can trade with them, and he can send trade ships to you once some of his system fleet gets modified. Those credits go right into the UNW, so we can sustain more projects. He is open to cultural exchange provided it gets past the sensitivity department here. He is also open to the exchange of goods once that new farmland is settled, because it will free up some manufacturing capacity. You're getting the strong sense that dependence on others for economic success is a big part of the past war, where the communists eventually won, so he is wary of this repeating itself on a macro level) (edited)

(No you’re good too lol. I sent them before yours came in, and they didn’t et delivered til the in betweens)

(And yeah, I’ll get some culture y’all here in a sec. lemme get to a spot where I can charge my phone and get WiFi first tho)

(Yeah take over discussions for now, I've said everything I want to)

(I’ll throw in grumpy quips as needed)

(That’s why you’re here lol) (Sorry for the delay. Phone died on the train) “As I said, cultural exchange is something I’ve expressed interest in here before. I said this last time when Captain Tanzer and I were here and had the pleasure of meeting with the Commissar, but I’ll repeat it again, since we’re in some new company. You all are far more advanced when it comes to culture than we are on Gudrun. I suspect that’s because you’ve been relatively isolated here on Pelsagon, allowing it to develop, while Gudrun’s been more of a hodge-podge of races and ideas. But I digress. Gudrun culture efforts are fairly limited to myself and PsikeTV, my entertainment company, a few pleasure places, and a couple rising star musical artists, like Chris Fury. That said, I see it growing rapidly. Culture exchange would probably happen naturally in trade, but I’d like we we could help encourage it, in whatever ways. Not to mention, a wider base of influence would lead to entertainment industries being more profitable hahah.” (edited)

“That is something we could export to you in great quantity. There would be some oversight as far as what comes onto the planet however as I’ve addressed

“But I’m not opposed to the exchange of ideas”

“Excellent. I completely understand the desire for oversight and don’t judge. We can talk specifics and stuff another day. That’s all from me for now”

(Anyone else? I think he had made his expectations fairly clear too)

“I would welcome the opportunity to work further with you and your people, understanding that all interactions and exchanges would go through you and your party. I honestly want to provide any assistance I can and learn from what you have done here. Your collective spirit and the goals of working as one unit for the betterment of all are laudable and I would like to learn more. As you have seen, I am not the accomplished diplomat or cheerful companion that Robert and Hailey are, so I will likely continue to lack their finesse. Thank you for your time.”

(6xp, 10,000 credits)

"You'e done well, for claiming to have no training. This was a pleasant meeting, and I hope when you return it is with good news"

(We can handwave back to own threads of no one else has anything here)

(Sounds good, also this was a perfect mission to ding me to level 10 and diplomat 2)

(Cheerful companion?!? Who you calling a companion, Hailey’s the star!)

Regulus, Cyrus, and Shriven (himself!) assemble on the departure deck on Trivedi Cloud, in preparation for their trip to Pelgason

Cyrus is unusually wearing his E.I uniform of white and gold a black sash around his waist as he greets Shriven and Reg with a warriors forearm shake. "Fancy new body Regulus. I like it, Shriven my Brother! How's the wife?"

"Greetings Mr. Adonis. How are your peacekeeping efforts proceeding on Cruesa?"

Regulus is wearing his old brown academic robes over his new metallic body. A multicolored core shines in the center of his chest.

"Wrapping up, hemming in the insurgents and forcing them to fight. It's slow and bloody work but I wont have to do it more than a few times. The cracks in their operations are showing." (edited)

"Have you thought about allowing those who surrender to be transferred to Shariar? It could reduce unnecessary deaths while still neutralizing their power there. I understand there have been unfortunate... situations of false surrender before. But as their numbers are already reduced, surely there isn't as much threat of that."

"Amnesty sets a bad example, that sounds harsh I know. Those captured are being handed off to the Marshals to face justice. I may call for a surrender yet. But the likelihood of it succeeding are low. In order to nip the insurgency in the bud I must kill the idea. That means isolating and eliminating cell leaders. Once the leaders are gone, the followers will disappear into the aether. Then we make efforts to convert the populace, those soldiers are as susceptible to goodwill as normal civilians. They don't want to surrender, we've tried that. They want to kill."

"The zealots will not surrender, you're correct. Unfortunately your severe stance inflicts fear upon even those unaffected by your terms. An amendment to the terms with the option of confinement instead of death would be seen as mercy to those you wish to win over. And those less zealous may choose imprisonment over fighting to the death, as of now they have nothing to lose. All I suggest is giving them something to lose. You'll have plenty left to kill if that is the message you wish to send, but the people will see that they chose violence instead of you."

"You see that's just it. I never said nor did I execute out of hand those who have surrendered. The terms said those of the RONI and Chainveil were to remanded to custody to await trial for warcrimes. After the initial assault of the stations there were no purges. They already chose to do this, rather than face consequences of past sins. The regular army stationed on Cruesa for the most part surrendered and were allowed to return home."

"You may not have said it and it may not have been your intent, this is merely how I fear the people interpret it."

"No one going to those trials expects anything but death."

"Sadly, nothing I say will change that now. I have been merciful on my part several times. But you can only be so, so many times before you begin to look weak."

"I firmly believe only the strongest leaders choose mercy. It is never a weakness. I understand how others could see differently though. Perhaps it is too late to change anything, but I ask you keep my words in mind."

"I agree, as I said I have been and will be again. Sadly it has come to pass that they would choose death over punishment. I may in fact call for a surrender again after I have terminated their leadership. And those that do surrender will be remanded to UNW custody those that choose to fade away will not be hunted. But aside from that I also have responsibilities to my Warriors and their people too. Many of my soldiers are from Asleif and Terezinho even Sumati - places devastated by Remnant involvement and war. They too demand justice. I try to be fair in my judgment and just, as too do I demonstrate mercy when it is earned and applicable. I thank you for your advice. But I feel that I am working as best I can with the fallout from a bloody war, not just a a single battle."

"Now that we've got that out of the way, Shriven - How's Ana?"

"Of course, this was not a condemnation of your actions, merely a wish for peace in a world of inevitable violence. My apologies for the distraction from our mission. Mr. Doma, it's good to see you again as well."

There is a harsh siren for a brief moment, as the hangar is rated safe for passengers to enter

(not sure who's ship we are taking. Shriven owns several but we do have those new liners too)

(I want a yacht!)

(Let's get really stylish) (edited)

@Rey Messi (Shriven) (not sure if he saw the thread was up)

(Didn’t....)

(Lol)

(I vote we take reunion as it has luxury cabins.)

(Smooth let's do that)

(Shriven is soft in his old age.)

Shriven steps out of reunion. “Welcome, I figured all of you would want your own cabin so it is just us and a small crew with the bots. It is good to see you outside of a council Regulus and Cyrus.” Shriven shows them in. “ Regulus How is the academy coming along? Have you made any breakthrough with the new forces in the magic department?”

"The academy is well, though progress is slow as always. Our young shaman friend found a rather interesting helmet from the corpse of Umbra Mortalis that led to some interesting breakthroughs. I was able to perform an experiment with Mr. Withers and succeeded in enhancing his abilities into those of a restricted psychic. I theorize that with practice I might be able to awaken latent psionic powers in almost anyone with enough exposure to the metaspace." (edited)

(I wanted you to have the notes from the previous group available rather than have to play Chinese telephone )

"That's quiet the achievement! I wonder what you'd think about some of my experiences with metaspace and the entities that lie within." Cyrus asks offhandedly "That reminds me, Where are you Girl?" He whistles, the tone high - before he's finished Nemesis pads around the corner. "I thought I'd take her with us, she likes knew places."

"I know more than you think, Mr. Adonis. Don't forget, technically I am a metadimensional entity myself."

"I'm not saying that my Friend, just wondering."

Nemesis appears, from around Cyrus's legs, and begins heading toward the lowered ramp of the Reunion

"Come on, let's get this underway. We've got diplomacy to do, and a polity to assess."

Cyrus walks up the ramp

Regulus follows.

Shriven turns and shows them their cabins.

Each one is comfortable and spacious,a nd finely furnished. The ship is quiet and well stocked for the trip ahead. Pelgason is several days away , and the course is locked in. (9 day trip ahead)

(I'm gonna study more slyth - do we have time for rp in the meantime or do we want to go straight there?)

(We have time, just wanted to lay things out)

(No worries just making sure I wasn't side tracking things too much) Cyrus goes to find Reg sometime into the journey. He's wearing what might be deemed by Cyrus as 'Civilian clothes' which are more akin to military fatigues. "Hey Regulus, sorry if I came across as rude when we were boarding, I am genuinely curious about some things and I wondered if you might have some answers for me, or at least some guidance. Do you have a few minutes?"

You find Regulus in his room, writing notes in a large book. He looks up and closes the book as you enter, "I always have time to spare to assist those in need. What can I help you with?"

Cyrus sits, the metal chair squeaking a little "Ares. My - Patron? I don't know if that's the right word. He bestowed onto me a gift I once had many years ago, imbued me with the power you see before you. Though, Nemesis is of my own conjuring I believe, with some help from Gudrun itself. She is more akin to a part of my soul. Ares is a being, a God. His power though diminished is immense. But I'd just like to get a second opinion, I want to believe I'm not going mad when I say I've met a God."

"I must admit I do not consider myself a religious person. But those considered to be gods may exist as your patron does, indeed I believe belief itself is powerful enough to simply will such a being into existence. My own theory is that your patron is akin to the Still Lady. I do not mean to say he is malicious or power hungry, but that he similarly gains power through worship, and no one is worshipped more zealously than war itself. I do not think you mad, Mr. Adonis. His nature depends on your definition of a god I suppose. In theory I suspect I could gain power in the same fashion, though it would take thousands of years to reach even the Still Lady's level and I imagine War to be of a much greater magnitude. I must caution you that he is very much capable of fault, ambition, and greed, much as the gods your ancestors wrote of. Be wary, but trust in yourself and all will be well."

"I too had a similar thought, what I perceive as Ares is perhaps the metadimensional depiction that best suits me. What I cannot deny are the things he showed me. War across the ages, Abel, Achilles, Hector, Spartacus and even more recent though I knew not who they were. What surprised me was his mandate." Cyrus chuckles lightly "I believed at first he meant to kill me. My family name, like many of my planet comes with a tale, Adonis, was the mortal lover of Aphrodite until he was killed by a jealous Ares. Whether you believe it's truth or not the people of my planet say that those of Clan Adonis share his blood, and his fate should they ever meet the God of War." He recounts as if telling a tale to a child before bed. "He mandated me with fighting a last war, one to truly end, all war. He was, is. Tired. And I think that is genuine, I've met many Warriors in my time Regulus. And when I looked into his eyes I saw nothing but the pain of witnessing too much death. Perhaps the thing that feeds him is not battle but rather the passion that lies in the lionhearted. I believe he wishes nothing but peace, perhaps selfishly so that he may rest. And as a Warrior that has seen too much death. I can say I wish for nothing more myself, the bittersweet reality is that I and my Warriors fight so that others do not - and that will likely mean we never find peace until we reach the fields of Elysium."

Regulus chuckles, a strange metallic sound in his new body, "The eternal paradox: fighting for peace. A noble cause, but a foolish one in my own opinion. Violence begets violence. The only peace war brings is the grief and loneliness of the last man standing. Do you wish to be that man, son of Ares? Alone with your tears and glory, surrounded by the bodies of man, friend and enemy alike? For as long as another stands, war will not end."

"That can be said of the universe anytime Regulus. Do you believe we could make peace with the Remnant? Or the Shapers? We make friends and allies when we can. But in order for peace sometimes good men must do violence onto bad men. I do not wish to be that person. I have already seen too many of my friends and family die to the fires of war and injustice. But what I and others have done has saved countless lives. Let us not forget our victories. Grief is the thing that has always united humanity."

"From the grief of loss perhaps we can learn from the mistakes that we made, or that others made."

"I understand the need for war, yet I weep at its futility. We defeated the remnant, but their sons and daughters will not forget the violence brought against them. Some can be reasoned with, their leaders committed countless atrocities and had to be dealt with. But too many will ignore logic and our attempts of goodwill, the violence caused by our actions will long outlast us. All we can hope is that we prevented more violence than we perpetrated, which I very much believe is the case for the remnant."

"That, I believe is my goal. With life, though I am only human - I am as prone to vengeance as any...Maybe that's not entirely true anymore. I should've been more merciful in the surrender, I know that now. And I can tell you that because you know my reasoning for doing what I did. But I could not ignore the pain they had wrought onto those I call my kin now. I will strive for better in the future, and make peace where I can like I once did at the start. But in a time of war, I will do what I must to ensure the greater good. I know that does not win me many friends."

"The greater good. I'm sure that was the remnant's justification for their genocide as well. That's not an admonishment, merely an insight: all warriors fight for their own greater good. The key to peace is finding what that means for each player. Often there will be no reconciliation, but every so often common ground will be found. Remember that the best compromise leaves no one happy, most find war easier. But recognizing your mistakes is the first step towards self betterment, reflection and introspection is difficult but always worth it and I applaud your efforts. I may believe your mission a fool's dream, but for what it's worth I also believe Ares chose well." (edited)

Cyrus chuckles "Perhaps he finally found a big enough fool. Thank you Regulus, you've given me a lot to think on. If you ever want to expand the academy I would be more than willing to fund a sister school on Cruesa for those wishing to study the psychic and arcane."

"I'm sure there were a few hiding their powers under Remnant rule now in need of guidance."

"That would be most appreciated, though perhaps let's give them some time first. Let them get used to the idea that we are not monsters, offer asylum to those who seek it. In time they will learn, but let's not force too much change at once. My door is always open if you seek guidance or just a chat with an old dead fool."

"Of course, I meant to do so - Cruesa is in need of vital services before we begin building such luxuries, any that I come across will be given the option to move to Gudrun and placed in your care. You're not as old as you'd like Regulus - you've got to get a few centuries on you before you can start being grumpy ghost professor."

Shriven walks at the end, “Sumati is probably not very ripe with some young psychics, but you can also make an academy there as well.”

Cyrus turns seeing Shriven "What was Sumati's stance on them before they were brought into the UNW?"

“They didn’t have many. They spent nearly 200 years prior not using spike so it wasn’t a common occurrence. There was no formal training so there wasn’t much progression.”

"How goes things on planet? Between the factions - how does having a God King work if the man above him is a Governor?"

“It is...” Shriven sighs, “Interesting, he is still a Godking but his priesthood have began converting him to apart of a pantheon. One day I can see it causing issues but for now I’m dealing with trying to keep COST from splintering and destroying what peace there is on the planet.”

“If you were to ask his priests I am shriven, messenger of Ethos father of the god king. For now im just dealing with it.”

"It's got a nice ring to it" Cyrus chuckles "Though it is necessary, from what I remember the leaders of the planet used advanced de-aging formula did they not?"

Shriven looks around to make sure there aren’t crew nearby, “Unoffically yes, your intel must be better than I had pegged it at. They are under the effects still but I haven’t been able to confirm if they all have used their personal supplies or not.”

"That would cause more issues if they were to outlive you. It's hard change something that's going to outlast you. They could just weight it out. I'm sure you have started already but sometimes a combined military of mixed cultures and nations helps break down barriers and old tensions. All work as one in a unit and form attachments. Though it's all in the training, it's a delicate thing. I have done so with the recruits taken from the prison camps on Sumati and they are now fully integrated into my force. All with Asleifi, Terezinhoans, Agaspuri, Miriamese and Gudrunites. All work as one for the collective goal. All are comrades."

(You like those collectives? lol)

“We are working on forming one up. But weeding out the spy’s from the true soldiers is an time consuming and frustrating path. I’m also having to break them of their trench warfare style into a TL4 military tactics system. Once it gets going I think it will take off but this month it is just trying.”

“Do you happen to have any advisors that could help with the conversion? It is a lot harder to do all this from military manuals.”

"I could spare a few once Cruesa has stopped burning. Which shouldn't be long. I know of a few that are the right fit to train troops."

"I'd be more than willing to help."

"Perhaps we should talk about our game plan for how we are going to deal with this mission."

"Our goal is simply more information, specifically regarding their long term plans and a potential alliance. They also need to be mabe aware of the fleshshaper threat. I suggest we offer our expert services with a domestic issue they may be facing as a show of good faith. We need to not antagonize them, but we do need answers to questions they may not like, particularly concerning civilian censorship."

"That could be difficult, considering their stance on 'independence' but we'll see what they have to offer."

"If this were an easy mission they wouldnt have sent us, now would they?"

"A fair point."

(I don't want to interrupt anything, when youre ready for scene cjange let me know)

“Personally I am also interested in how their markets work and what their Quality of Life is. A free market will remove a lot of my concerns as a market can correct a lot of social wrongs.” (edited)

"I am interested in their military capabilities, but I'm unsure as to how forth coming they will be about that particular subject." (edited)

"Understandably I doubt we learn much there. But I imagine if we're to aid them in upgrading their fleet more quickly we'll get a rather good idea ourselves. That is conditional upon their support against the fleshshapers of course."

"Indeed, we shall see what we find. I think we know our main goal, gather more information and see what they have to offer the UNW in a sustained long term partnership, that being trade as well as their help against the fleshshapers."

(I'm ready to jump ahead if you guys are)

The long journey ends, at the edge of Pelgason local space. The sixty strong fleet is practicing maneuvers against itself. Two corvettes practice rod runs on a bombing range set up on the moon, the iron spears falling with the strength of several kilotons of TNT. The dirty brown orb of the planet looks peaceful from above, and it confirms the previous reports- aside from a few valiant patches of green where industrial farms struggle, little grows here now.

Cyrus stands on the bridge looking out of the viewing window, back in his uniform. "Well this could be fun."

"Shall we begin our landing?" He asks turning to the others

Shriven waves his hand, “Telepads or want to go down in the ID fighter?”

"Telepads. It displays the technology we potentially have to offer without the aggressive connotations of the fighter."

Shriven turns to the crew. “Have they given us landing coordinates?”

“They have. Same place the other groups touched down”

Shriven turns to the engineer, “Beam me down Scotty.” The engineer rolls his eyes and says for the 100th time under his breath “My name is Rick.”

Cyrus steps onto the pad with Nemesis.

Regulus follows with a satchel of books for notes.

There is a flash of light, as you teleport down to the ground. Startled security forces have weapons raised, and are looking for officers to try to get some kind of confirmation, before the figures resolve as human, and they relax- a bit

(Human is a strong term haha a Robot, A unnaturally sized man with black eyes and his cat, then a normal everyday Shriven haha)

Cyrus steps out of the teleportation fog that lingers smiling at the Soldiers. "Hello there."

(okay well they werent expecting people to do this)

Regulus steps out as well, brushing off his robes before bowing, "Apologies for the abrupt arrival, I am Regulus Fate of the UNW. My colleagues and I are here to further our peoples' relationship and to visit your lovely home."

A tan and green camo painted jeep is speaking toward the tarmac, a military looking man stands in the back, trying to look ahead. His peaked cap is blown off his head by the high speed

Regulus turns to the other two, "I suppose we rather forgot to announce our presence beforehand."

"Oops!" Cyrus says with a chuckle "Not the best start but its a statement" (edited)

The vehicle comes to a halt, and a man introducing himself as Commissar Valor, and his two bodymen exit. "More delegates from the UNW?" he says with a pleasant tone in his voice "I see the ever radiant Miss Clements is not with you, this time"

"Called away on a terrorist hunt sadly. She sends her regards." Cyrus takes a step forward and goes to shake the Commissar's hand introducing himself "Warmaster Cyrus Adonis, This is Professor Regulus Fate and Governor Shriven Emaje ." (edited)

Shriven bows.

"A warrior, an academic, and a diplomat. Giving us the fullworkup I see"

“Not so much a work up as a follow up. We were hoping that we could confirm and support the finding of the first team as well as find some additional specifics that were overlooked in the initial delegation. We are each experts in our fields and have some specific questions of theory and practice to bring to you and those working along side you.”

"Full workup indeed" he says, with the same level of pleasantry. "Well, climb aboard, I'm willing to take you to wherever you think a logical first point of call should be"

Cyrus climbs on and whistles Nem to jump on with him. "Don't mind her she doesn't bite much. I believe we should first look at our options for trade and the markets that you discussed Shriven. Seems the most prominent."

"I've heard about your collection of precognatives, is there a structured academy we could visit? After trade discussions of course."

Shriven nods, “I would appreciate talking to your economist or department head over the market.”

"Once we are done with that, I'd love to view a military installation, perhaps a barracks or shipyard. I see you have ships drilling in space, they were very impressive."

"If you'd like to talk economics you'll find the trade ministry and 'academy' as it were, are almost the same complex. we can head there straight away"

the lot of you are taken through the city, a collection of rust red, and dark grey buildings, squared and blocky, with minarets or tasteful accents now and again- to a walled in city-within-a-city, where the ministry offices for Pelgason's various governmental departments are kept. Security is heavier, and the car is scanned a few times before entry. The economics ministry, and the defense ministry to seem to have the largest buildings, though the agricultural one almost matches the scale, and looks twice as busy

Shriven grins seeing the economist getting such a large priority. He sends a com through his integral compad. “This will go either very good or very bad.”

"Lead the way Mr. Emaje, let's see what this nation has to offer."

Shriven heads to the economics ministry.

There are dozens of precognitives of lesser ranks (I’m assuming video of the actual meeting with the leaders from last time got passed around. It was taken) Ministers and psychics meet in small groups and you see one leading a group of farmers into a meeting room

The mood is a bit disorganized to an outsider, but farmers, clerks, and security staff all move about the building in living tides, understanding where they're going

Shriven follows the guard noticing the shuffle and takes mental notes of the set up possibly needing to send someone there in the future.

(I think i might be better served here by i guess figuring out what exactly youre trying to do here, are you just observing or do you want a meeting with someone)

(I want to meet and ask questions about the structure and limits on the market.)

(More to figure out how Commie they are.)

(On a scale from Modern day Cuba to Pol Pot)

(^^ Cuba gets my green light pol pot gets a meh I’m a little worried.)

A functionary notices the few of you lingering in the midst of all that activity, standing out both as foreign, and not very busy. "Good morning honored sirs. May I assist with anything?"

“Hello I am Shriven, an representative of the UNW. I hope you can help me by clarifying some questions. Do you have a central bank?” (Do you want the list or back and forth?)

(Back and forth i think so i dont miss anything)

"We have a central finance committee that handles money, and the payment for goods and services, yes. There are some small differences from a capitalist bank, however, for example, it ensures our currency has value, but does not operate as a business"

(so they cant trade stocks, or charge interest on loans, but you do have to pay back what you owe)

“So does the committee determine the price or is they left up to local economies?”

"It's up to the local economy whenever possible, thats all the groups you see around us. Factory workers, administers, anyone who has a qualified opinion about stocks of goods, and their rate of use, and they're determining just that"

"In rare instances the national assembly can invoke emergency measures to set a planetwide cost, but it has only been invoked 3 times in the last decade, all the same year, little more than 3 years ago now"

"Could you tell us why they did that?"

"Around then, our psychics all at once underwent some kind of rapid change. Any who were already precognitive, found their powers enhanced. Many saw visions of the future, and ranted, and raved, before exploding with metaphysical energy. Psychics who were not gifted in precognition suddenly found those powers emerging, at the cost of their other abilities. The damage done from this event was extreme. Casualties were immense and some outlying villages were wiped off the map entire. There needed to be some control over basic necessities so price gouging would not follow in the wake of the calamity"

"Ah the scream. That's very interesting indeed. I've heard of psychics dying because the event, not the new emergent power bit."

"I was wondering at the odd amount of precognative psychics. You have no other disciplines currently represented?"

"None, and none have been reported since, either"

"This event was not localised to your planet, we call it the Scream. It was, as far as we know, on a galactic scale. If you wish we can send you the files we have pertaining to the event to your Government?"

"It also seems to have affected areas in different ways. I suspect once your people have access to spike travel the other disciplines will reappear, I haven't heard of the scream affecting anyone else in the way you have described. Do you have any psychics in need of training? Without skilled metapsions I suspect any emerging psychics would struggle not to torch themselves to madness or death."

“It’s a problem that we are monitoring. But yes. None have emerged since the disaster. As for your files, our ministry of defense would surely be interested”

"Details are to be worked out of course, but when you do begin to discover new psychics I would gladly welcome them in our academy, or work with you to start your own with one of our metapsions heading instruction until you develop some of your own."

"Politics and policies aside, I couldn't in good conscious leave new psychics to suffer."

“That will have to be a much longer discussion at a later time”

"Do you have anymore to ask about trade Shriven?"

“What about your current average savings? Do your civilians have excess cash?”

“Maybe a small amount for emergencies but we do all we can to ensure there are none. If you’re looking for holes you’re going to find some. No system is perfect”

“Well I’m happy with the flexibility of your economy. Any chance I can talk to a shopkeeper or trader?”

“Plenty out in town. You’re free to talk to whoever you wish. “

Shriven nods “Thank you for your time.” He then turns to the two others after he walks away, “Mind if I just go and confirm what he said with an outsider?” (Shriven would wander out and ask the same questions and get a thumbs up from neko unless something was different.)

(The answers would be the same if you’re talking to someone of his relative level of information. The common folk who are actually doing the farming probably don’t have an understanding of planetary macroeconomics but they’d have few complaints

Shriven is content with the mostly free market.

"What's next? Psychics?" Cyrus asks looking at Regulus

"We can move on to the military. I'd like to talk to some of the psychics, but more for research purposes than diplomatic. I too am content with the state of their market. After military I believe censorship is my final concern."

Cyrus nods and looks at their impromptu guide "Is there any chance we could tour a military base?"

“I’m afraid I can’t let you into a base but I’d be happy to get a collection of soldiers for you to talk to”

“Honored visitors you may be, it is still a national security issue, being unauthorized personnel and all”

"It was worth the ask, I would love to talk to a collection of troopers. Please lead the way."

A small group is assembled from a few nearby garrisons, totaling six privates, two specialists, a captain and a major.

the older and more senior ranked have scars gained through battle

Cyrus meets with them "I see some of you are season men of arms. Could you give me a background of your experience in combat? Who have you fought?"

"Ourselves, long ago. "

"A civil war? These things happen. You have a sizeable system fleet, have you ever had to use it against a foe?"

'Just in training, never against a foe, and we hope to never. We have no spike drives, if the home fleet is being used, it will be a dark day for Pelgason, and the ships will likely only serve to buy time for the ground elements to pull themselves together"

Cyrus nods looking at Shriven and Regulus. "Tell me if you would about the arms you bare. Do you use energy or projectile weaponry?" (What TL is their equipment and in what condition does it look?)

(TL late 3, probably using like very late model SCARs or FAL's)

Their armor looks equivalent to current combat firld uniforms though with far fewer electronics

"All hard rounds. There's too much dust in the air on this planet for energy to work reliably"

Cyrus nods "Too much can negate the effectiveness of energy weapons in my opinion. They're cheaper but not as powerful or reliable. How many soldiers does Pelgason have?"

'That we must unfortunately decline to tell you, likewise we have not asked the size of your army"

“Can we request a history of your recent victories?”

"The Museum of the People's Triumph would have exactly what you are looking for. Feel free to take as many pictures and recordings as you wish"

Cyrus nods "Would you be comfortable fight alongside others of different beliefs? None communists"

"Of course we would. You;r views on how we have decided to share the meager wealth Pelgason has is blinding you to the fact that we are people too" (edited)

"Not what I'm saying, merely asking. If I don't ask, I don't get a clear answer."

"Don't take it as an insult."

"A more accurate question to our situation would be: if we were to supply you with spike and aid in upgrading your fleet, would you aid us against a common enemy? There is a galaxy wide threat to the north known as the fleshshapers. Alone I don't believe any of us could stand against them. If you were to agree to fight with us, in defense of your own people as well as life as a whole, I believe we could nearly guarantee unanimous support in favor of giving your people spike travel. There are further issues to talk about, but this I believe is the largest issue."

"My Friend here has the right of it. I mean no insult, I simply wish to assess whether or not you would fight alongside Me and mine in our war against the world ending threat these sectors face."

"Though I fear you'd need more advanced training and equipment in order to stand a real chance, which both could be provided if our relations were to blossom."

"Our navy would need an overhaul which we had spoken about with the last delegation. With your help the process could be shortened to months. We would aid you with the entirety of what we can muster"

Cyrus turns looking at Regulus and Shriven "That's all I needed to hear for now. You want to take this upstairs to some more officials and talk about possible trade goods and the censorship issues?"

“Works for me.”

"Me as well."

"Okay, let's do that then." He turns once more to the soldiers nodding. "Thank you Friends, for answering my questions. Perhaps one day we shall stand side by side on the battlefield."

Pelgason's party chairman is willing to meet with you, as he has done the last delegation. He has no time for a lavish meal, about to depart for a tour of the southern swamplands, but you're invited to his flyer, to speak with him en route if desired. Commissar Valor will also be attending

(Are we on the move with him now?)

(if you wanted to speak with him, youd meet him on the plane as it prepares for takeoff)

Cyrus bows to the Chaiman as they meet. "Chairman, I assume the Commisar has given you our names. But let me extend our thanks to you for the hospitality we have been shown."

"It is our pleasure, if not to become friends, at least to become well informed neighbors" he gestures for you to board, and as a courtesy, you are not frisked for weapons

Cyrus boards "We have learnt much about your culture and how you live today. And I think I speak for us all when I say that we've enjoyed our tour. But we still have some questions and queries that we'd like to clear up with you before taking our recommendations back to our council. Is that alright?"

The ramp behind you shuts, and youre all led to a simple conference room, the furniture bolted to the floor to not shift during takeoff. "I'd like to record this meeting if it is alright with you, so I can reflect on things later when I draw up my own conclusions and reports for ministers"

"Nothing we are going to say cannot be repeated so I believe that will be fine." He says looking at the others for confirmation.

Shriven nods.

"We will be repeating all of this to our own people as well, of course you may do the same."

"Very good. Well, the question side of things rests with you. I'm ready when you are"

The plane shakes a bit as the engines begin cycling up

"I am sure it's a bit of a sensitive subject, but we wish to discuss censure. I would like to know to what degree are things censured here and your reasoning for doing so. Not that we condemn your doing so, we merely wish to understand why and how it might affect our people's relationship."

"Our planet was once a patchwork of dozens of different countries, and territories, scrapping for whatever meager resources our planet could provide as climate change and pollution escaped our ability to control. The People

s Revolutionary Pelgason Republic eventually triumphed in the resource wars that followed, adopting the system you see before you, though as you're likely well aware, ideology is hard to kill. Everyone has enough to eat, enough medicine when they're sick, and clean clothes to wear to work because we are unified, and because everything is shared. It is not to say that we shoot people for jokes, or that other opinions aren't considered- but any movement in politics that threatens this hard thought unity needs to be framed to the people carefully. lest we devolve back into feuding kingdoms once again"

"Pelgason as she appears before you today is only sixty years old , this unity, this dream, has not had time to root in the hearts of some people. Too many remember the old kingdoms, the last wars....we are careful about what is distributed to the people only because we ourselves stand on such shaking legs. Divided, we fall"

"Though we are not here to advice on policy making for this state I'd like to ask. Although you see moving out into the stars as necessary do you not think this will open up these old wounds a little? With space comes the opportunity to see how others live, and besides that with distance comes less control."

"With space comes the resources we need to lessen the political strain, as well. It is an unknown, but it is a risk we feel we have made the educated guesses we can, about"

"I suppose the thing we may feel might become an issue is the contact your people have with ours and how that will affect relations if your citizens begin asking awkward questions of your political system as a result."

"We would not actively threaten your way of life of course, but ideally both our borders would be open for travel and such things are an inevitability. We are willing to work with you so that things do not become unstable, but we also promote freedom of speech and information. I do not think that is something we could compromise on."

"Indeed."

“Agreements are made in steps. For spike drive technology we would be willing to open trade and share intelligence. we will also agree to a defensive military pact. Things will need to stabilize at home before we can truly open borders

“Your assistance with the fleet would also ensure we can reconfigure quickly and come to your aid more effectively with warships rated for the threats you’re facing

"Obviously you cannot tell us what kind of intelligence you may have yet, but of curiosity, what sort of goods are available to trade? I'm no businessman like my friend here, but the more you can offer, the easier your case will be to make for the council."

(It would be the same answer as the previous group got. He’s not pulling a fast one)

“I also think that it would be fair to warn you that there is a hostile species to the north east of us. We have only had 2 run encounters that I know of but we have had several other planets that have had to evacuate and another polity to the north west that has had an ongoing campaign against them.”

(Gotcha, didn't realize they had asked)

“Yes. The threat you’d said was coming. You’d have our fleet if we had a way to reach you

Shriven grins. "You sure do know how to cut to the point."

(shriven is sold on it.)

“Now you’ve brought up the issue of culture. And I believe that well, as your robotic friend said, we will need discourse with metapsions before long. This meeting of the minds is already built onto our cooperation agreement , even if the wording is not specific”

“But without explicitly agreeing now, we can kick this can down the road a few years and allow the influx of resources to stabilize a difficult and tenuous political situation at home”

"I believe my friends were also interested in supplying hydroponics in the interest of stabilization and the betterment of your people. This would be a gift to you, a show of good faith. I understand you do not want to be reliant on an outside party, so there would be no strings attached beyond the hope of a lasting alliance of our peoples. To that end, would you be interested in joining in a pact of nonviolence with us? And potentially other polities as well including New Moon Cooperative and even Greystar if they are willing. This is not a formalized pact as of now, merely an idea for us to bring to our councils and hope of peace. But with approval of each nations leadership we could have a multinational alliance to combat fleshshapers."

"I have already agreed to a defensive pact with you. Not having met the others, it would be negligent of me to accept such broad terms"

"As I said, it's merely an idea in its infancy, to be dwelled upon and discussed as you return to the stars. All of us will need to cooperate against this enemy, pact or not. But that is a topic for later, are there any questions you have for us? I believe all of mine have been answered."

"We were given a good deal of information by the first delegation that arrived here. As long as you can promise you will not interfere in our political or economic system, I think we can agree to the first stages of cooperation laid out"

(Not sure if anyone else has anything to add)

(I think thats it really for me at least)

(I'm good )

(I’m good.)

(6xp, 10,000 credits)

The plane lands, negotiations concluded, in the southern swamplands area where a host of tractors is getting ready to plow some recently drained soil. It looks rocky, and poor.

After making it back onto the ship Cyrus sits down with Shriven and Regululs. "So what were your thoughts on things?" (edited)

"Their answers and motivations are sufficient for me. I would be comfortable providing them with spike drives technology."

"And you Shriven?"

“I think we can work with them. I think they will hold to what they said though I do think they might eventually become a rival and not just an ally. But that is a few decades down the road.”

"A rival is often what drives industry, it forces one to improve. We keep our relations friendly before they reach that point and they shouldn't become a hostile one."

"We are in agreement then. I too feel the same as you Shriven."

“I think that having a rival later is worth it if we can make smart moves now to position ourselves as allies.”

"Normally that wouldn't be an issue, the only thing that makes this harder than building relations with say the NMC is their political leanings."

"As long as no one is trying to force others to adapt their own beliefs I don't think it is much of an issue. If it works for them they will be a solid ally. If it fails then we may help if needed but otherwise it only affects their own people."

"Either way, we need their fleet now or as soon as we can get it to fight the shapers. There's little risk of them posing a threat to us as it stands. Their ground forces need better equipment. They'd be cannon fodder against shapers on the ground if it came to that."

"They also haven't fought a war recently. They probably have a good core of veterans but most wont have seen mass battle."

(9 days back again?)

(assuming no one has anything to add or wants to keep this going)

(messages help, threads dont light up with emojis and i dont want to leave you on read)

The trip back is nine days of relative peace, spent on various downtime projects and compiling of reports for the followup talks and vote in unity council.