P Finance and Frustration: Talks

[Big Dicc Marty]

[Joint post starring Jack Pine (Heinrich, Mark), Glein (Galestrix), darkfox202 (Asteri) and #Madison Ešterra#3306 (Aliset)]


After grueling weeks in unexplored space that left the councilwoman begging for a sign of inhabited, civilized worlds again, she finally found herself respite amongst a strange and alien environment. Her small vessel had broken away from the strong statement that was the two frigates now holding in orbit above Sanctuary. Maybe not a statement in the meager power the frigates had, being relatively small for the importance of the crew aboard and who they were escorting. The emblem painted on the sides, however, named this escort as a giant ward to any would-be Senti pirates. The Metallurgists were a small but dedicated force, one with an anti-senti reputation well above their true size.

However, planet-side, the Secretary of Finance had finally landed from the short trip to ground. The sleek black, red and gold ship set its landing gear onto the foreign landing pad and let its short ramp extend from under the ship. Out stepped a short, cognac colored woman dressed in a rich black frock coat dotted with gold buttons and crimson trims. A bullet proof vest sat underneath it but on top of a simple white button up. She looked tired and almost motionsick. A datapad sat under her arm but was quickly removed once her Alexandria eyes had caught the approaching NDC personnel. Interesting that such a defensive species didn’t seem to guard their own second-in-commands, this poor woman was alone in a world she couldn’t even speak the language of.

Aliset had been in a control tower, watching the frigates carefully until someone had made the comment that the Drhuvs had sent a modest escort, to which she responded, “Modest as my tight xeno ass… Those are Metallurgist frigates. Drhuvian military forces trained specifically to fend off Katamuran pirates. That is a warning for my people to not be involved in this mess. So I simply must support my husband, yes?” Turning, she breezed out the door, moving to collect her suit.

The person who greeted them was someone in a nondescript black suit, one that had an ISD badge. “Welcome to the capital of the Conclave, I have been sent to act as your guide to the palace. His eminence Archduke Mark Oaklen will be the one meeting with you today after an initial meeting with both Archdukes.” With that, the woman took a bow in her greeting, her speech translated in real time by a small drone assistant that accompanied her.

Some distance away, standing at the edges to the pad’s exit into the terminal, stood two guards in minimal basic uniform waiting at attention. Neither posed any sort of feeling other then standing by, and waiting to protect their newly arrived charges.

Behind them strode a black and honey steel clad woman, zipping the suit up to cover her modest bust as she dressed on the move. Her helmet hung from her hip as she checked her gloves for fit, activated her mag boots in step, and lifted her hands behind her head to start pulling her hair into a messy bun. Approaching the Duskerian guards, she quickly inquired about Mark’s location, tossing a glance to the Drhuvian dignitary. Surely, this would be a simple matter for her to provoke the Drhuvs and make them seem unpredictable and dangerous. For a xenopolitician of her age and calibur, it would be too easy. And that worried her. The Drhuvs, from her memory on the briefings, were crafty, and devious to boot. She needed to make sure Mark would be prepared for anything.

The secretary stepped forward to the woman who had bowed. She wasn’t particularly well versed in Duskerian culture so she simply bowed in return. After rising up from the bow and sweeping her long black hair back behind her shoulders, a soft thudding rose from the ship ramp.

First were a pair of legs, soft rubbery skin covering the person beneath. Whoever they belonged to was certainly identical to that of the Drhuvian Berserker guards that the NDC had met previously. The suit continued to the chest, thick and numerous armored plating layered on top of the black rubber-like material with scratches and dents gleaming in the natural light. A small sheath and knife rested on her left shoulder and empty shell caddies sat on her hips with one outlier at her right bicep. The last of her equipment rested flush at the left wrist, an bevelled extrusion pointed with a small grapnel. An almost androgynous woman continued to grow into the light from the dark of the ship until the suit gave way to a face.

The tall, approximately 5’10”-6’0” woman that had stepped into the light had a striking contrast to the delegate. She was no Drhuvian, the dull, nearly iridescent silver and relative smoothness of her skin made it obvious she was a contorted and corrupted version of a typical Senti. Sharp emerald eyes were excited to all the new stimulation her senses were granted. A grin laid with eight distinct fangs slowly grew. The same grin that had just begun to slowly began to turn predatory at the reminder of why she was on this alien world.

Her emerald eyes took a second look across this new environment. They stopped immediately when the sight of honey colored metal, a distressed expression and silver shine showed on the landing pad. Alloy became fixated, any moment and she would dart forward to let years of training and preparation be finally used. Many weeks aboard ships constantly jumping between systems had given just the little nudge to make her truly restless and now it was only a few minutes before she could work again. Her face hid none of the growing desire for predation.

The representative spoke up in her harsh tongue, putting her eyes down to the itemized list she had prepared in her off time. “It is good to meet you, sir. I do not wish to keep our meeting waiting any longer, it has waited long enough after travel and bureaucracy. Let us begin.” Her eyes lifted to the ISD guard, patient and ready to get to work.

“Then please follow me and mind the guards, they are here to ward any delay via bystanders.”, the agent replied as the guards moved to open the doors for the group. One stepped beside Aliset before informing her of Mark’s location being at the palace, waiting for the delegation here to arrive for talks. They then stepped away to join the other of their security duo, gesturing through the door as the agent led the representative.

A pair of cars with royal family flags on their hoods, waited for the delegation to get in. “Your highness, please ride with the guards in the lead vehicle. I will be riding in the rear with the two delegates.”, came the strongly implied suggestion to Aliset after seeing how the senti delegate eyed the archduchess.

Aliset nodded, letting her eyes close at the look Alloy had given her before speaking. “Of course. I am not sure I like the idea of one of my species working willingly with them.”

She stepped towards the cars, carrying a soft and regal smile as she pointedly ignored the Drhuvians, already planning her dead sprint to Mark’s side upon the door opening. “Please stall for ninety seconds after releasing me. I need Mark to know what he got himself into.”

The secretary was prompt and stepped to the rear vehicle. She simply ducked into the car, sat at the far end and readjusted her slacks for comfort as her guard made an authoritative march behind. The door shut with a small thud, leaving Alloy and the councilwoman comfortable in the car. The Secretary leaned into Alloy and whispered Allurian tongue in her ear, “Smooth, Alloy. Smooth. You could not have waited until the meeting?” The Senti woman chuckled. There was a bit more planning to her actions than she let on. She had found the Senti influence and could smell the progress made in turning this possible meddling into… enrichment for the restless Drhuvian hunter.

As the agent settled into the opposite bench of backseats, crossed her legs as the car started moving. “I hope the trip went well, and I hope that everything will be cordial. I must raise concern over the behavior of your escort towards the Archduchess.”, they inquired, seeing as the feeling of interaction still made her uneasy. She wasn’t paid enough salary for this high sexual tension xeno-bullshit.

“I’m sorry milady, but we have strict orders to not delay. If you’re concerned about his majesty, please be aware this is the second meeting with this nation. The first was at the doorstep of their “black wall” as they call it.” The guards who sat with Aliset in the first car, spoke in Vaigarin, low enough to not be heard, but still choosing the language to be safe. “We are aware of particular and severe prejudices, as well as some of their interaction methods.”, he added before sitting straight again, waiting for their arrival.

A deep sigh released from the poor woman the council had sent. She has to handle this little pest that was her security and insurance. She reached over and set a clawed hand on the shoulder of this warrior woman before beginning to speak to the guard who suffered with her. “Alloy is a little pent up after the trip, excuse her. I can assure you she will not cause much trouble.” Her grip tightened, though not by much from the weakness of her hands that at most toiled pens or tapped on various screens. Alloy could still feel the difference in pressure. “She also rarely deals in politics. This is a new experience for her and far from the typical warfare she masters. My apologies for any future discomfort.” The delegate returned her hand to her lap, checking over her list again just to kill time and anxiety. Alloy played a fake innocent smile of someone who was simply too ignorant to truly know how to handle herself in the presence of politicians and royalty. A faint smell of rich soil lingered, a jab and warning from the representative to Alloy to keep it in her pants until the meeting was underway.

“Yes, I was aware of the first interaction, despite our efforts to stay out of sensor range. Clearly, they have made some upgrades.” Aliset spoke in smooth, barely accented Vaigarin, crossing her legs relaxedly as she gently cleaned her helmet visor. “That silverskin, I have heard about her in rumor. Her parents were Katamuran pirates, captured and forced to fight to the death in Drhuvian death arenas. She was raised by them from childhood. They call her the Gem of the Collective. I do not know her true name. But she is generally used to demoralize Senti pirates.”

“Then perhaps she would find it more entertaining to speak with our admiralty, or the generals of the legion. Perhaps even a tour of the military district, just to give something more to her tastes after the talking is done.” Came the calm professional words of the agent as they were translated. The city passed by as they drove through the bustling streets of people, a large mix of races present in the passersby. The buildings to them were bleak and metallic, large monolith structures so utilitarian and clean. None of the signage was present, which may be what was prompted next, as the agent handed over a pair of glasses.

“These are for seeing what is not seen by outsiders. Here technology runs deep and widely accessible as part of daily lives. We use an implant to process and send data mentally, while also for interfacing with many facets of our technology.” She gestured out the window to the passing city, “Please, don the glasses, and you will see what I mean.” If they did so, the city once stark and flat with nothing for decor, now lit up with holograms of signs, and VR overlays over everything. It was a vibrant layer of life that was missing to the naked eye.

“Then a file will be made, and information gathered, milady. We are always running intelligence and collecting data.” was the guard’s simple reply in Vaigarin.

The representative set the glasses on her rigid ears and was clearly set aback by the flood of information that assaulted her eyes. Technology ran deep in the Collective, sure, but rarely was it ever this present and violent. These towers of metal were familiar to her but there wasn’t any of the greenery she was familiar with. A beautiful sight but it was unsettling to see such an urban sprawl with no consideration or even open attempt to combat the environmental effects. All of this information was making her head swim. She hastily removed the glasses. Alloy saw the discomfort of her superior and refused to wear them.

“All of this information is… excuse my lack of better wording, an assault on my senses. I can not comprehend having this injected directly into my brain without any natural green to rest my eyes on. Please do not take this as an insult to your city, I am… uncomfortable.” She continued to stare at the glasses that had harmed her, a weary smell of sap filling her immediate surroundings as the discomfort was subconsciously transmitted towards her single guard.

“I would very much like to learn everything you can find on her. I have a feeling she will be trouble. More than who she protects.” Aliset pulled a small device from her hip pouch, alongside her AR glasses. Slipping these on, she quickly dialed Mark from memory. She smiled into the device, speaking quickly in Shuristan. “Mark, my anchor, the Drhuvs are going to be problematic. I do not have much time. The representative brings a silverskinned guard. She is Tsurati, not senti. She is distinctly Drhuvian. I do not like the look she gave me. Be aware these creatures are dangerously intelligent, cunning, and devious, with backhanded and deceitful politics that can involve physical violence. Be careful. I don’t know what she’s planning. Oh, and before I forget, part of their language is nonverbal, by pheromone. They can mimic the pheromones of other species to influence behavior or to communicate between themselves. It’s common practice for them to use their jacobs organ and their mimicry to attempt to seed doubt or fear, and when Senti have experienced their tricks, they have a special taste for calling us prey by using our sex pheremones against us.”

“I’m well aware of your beef against each other my dear. Diplomacy requires restraint, and I expect them to uphold that. If they merely came to cause grievance, then I will deny their sacrificial lamb of sorts.” Came back Mark’s voice on the other end of the call, neutral on the matter. Not so much that he didn’t care, but had to be in his best professional mindset for this meeting. “I mean no disrespect my dear wife, but today is a meeting between our people and druhvian collective. Not a dispute against the Senti, and I expect them to stay on that focus.”

The agent frowned slightly, “It has more or less become a necessity for us, and how we live our daily loves. Through the interface, we can take in every detail of the world around us, and manage input into the high speed quantum network.” She gestured outside to the grass lining besides the sidewalks, and trees planted along with plants here and there, “As for greenery, we do try to still incorporate some into the layout. And there is a massive circular park at the city’s center. I would also like to add that Obsidian city is about our only that you will find this….. Bare.”

As the cars continued their procession through the bastion of a city, a large black scaled dragon flew overhead. The creature was almost sorely out of place among the world of metal, a passive roar as it made it’s fly by, before sweeping back the other way. “Looks like the crown prince is out today on a flight.”, the agent added as she noticed the creature pass.

The Secretary took comfort knowing that the urban forest of Drhen was much more in line with typical NDC cities and that this unnatural barren landscape is the exception, not the rule. “We are hoping these talks proceed over a few days, however long that is for this world. Hopefully our host will enjoy the idea of a walk through this park you mentioned. Almost reminds me of Ordesia…” The Secretary took her eyes from the agents frowning face and out to the rest of the city, just catching the washing shade of the creature as it passed as well as seeing all the different species the NDC was home to. “So many different species.” The delegate noted. The second time the prince flew over head, she managed to catch the figure and not just the shadow it cast. Roars were a regular thing for her but, “What the fuck?” She had spoken in her more natural, grating tongue. The surprise was enough to get her singular guard to stop impatiently lounging and look up as well. Alloy spoke for her representative as her shock at this great beast kept her speechless, “That… that is the crown prince?” The silver skinned woman questioned. She turned her head to the guard to make sure that they weren’t trying to play some sort of bad joke.

"As I am well aware, Mark. However, it troubles me that the delegate brings only one guard, and one of my species at that. It is rather disturbing on a great many levels." Aliset's rich, musical language flitted from her throat as she shook her head, the quote taking a mere second to speak with so many layers of tone and compound syllables. Switching to Vaigarin, she gave a sigh. "I know this sounds insane and I do not wish to tarnish your people's relationship with the Collective, but I have to parse all I know to bring awareness and caution. I understand my people's negative biases towards the Drhuvians, and I am trying to look past them. It is difficult to set aside prejudices generations deep. Oh, and I saw the Prince fly overhead. And a glint of silver skin at his shoulders. I hope my cousin is not too heavy for him. Sadly, I did not recognize Gale in her normal formation at his wingtip."

“My dear, if I had to ponder a guess. I would simply say they are trying to ward your people off from participating in the talks. So lets play their game, and take the guard aside somewhere else, find out what you can while… entertaining them.” Mark was not one for playing political games, but if it kept things calm, then oh well. He trusted his wife could look after herself, and if not, well this was their world. It would be unwise to bring fatal harm to an archduchess.

The agent replaced her frown with a polite smile, clearing their throat before taking the time to thoroughly explain.“Yes indeed. He recently underwent a race change in order to be more compatible with a lover of his. To clarify, they are a draconic race called the Vaigarin who are native to this world, and have the ability to take humanoid form. You might meet a few while here, and can be generally, easily picked out by their horns, wings, and tails.”

“As for a walk in the park, I could request for you, that the talks be moved to the park grounds if you wish.”, she added, hoping that might in fact ease the tension of the city’s appearance.

The Drhuvian woman slowly peeled herself from the window, out of the shock of seeing such a large beast and being told it was a prince. These are wild lands, full of a variety of species with seemingly no limits. It boggles her mind that they can co-exist so seamlessly. She turned to the guard and carefully brought her thoughts back in line with politics and a representation of the collective, suppressing an agape mouth and impressed dumbfoundedness. “I am partial to the palace, unfortunately. It is a much more secure and private location. I don’t think it is yet time for public appearances. However, we plan to stay for a few days, I am hoping we can enjoy more natural environments.”

Alloy moved back from the window as well and returned to her half-lounging state of impatience. She was just pondering what would be better, disappearing into a labyrinth of doors and ventilation or treetops and bushes. Either way, she’d be toying with that rust skin until it collapses. How much longer does this damn ride have to be, getting cramped in this mobile box. Already spent months in one, when can she finally feel some freedom and fun again?

"Mark, That guard disturbs me greatly. She does not have the glow of the Steel, and she has a wild, predatory gaze that sends a shiver up my spine. I do not believe I am qualified to be her… entertainment. Can we not send Spark to handle the feral? She is worse than Skydasi." Aliset gave another shake of her head, suddenly longing for the gravity free halls of her home, the warm thrum of the burial steel and the raw power of her ancestors flowing through her. She touched the spot near her breast where the necklace made of her mother should be absently, remembering that Mark now wore it. She didn't know if he could see the way she could, or if it had granted him power, but it had offered health and vitality, the connectedness with one's body that it gave her. "I stared Rustybe in the face, and down the barrel of a pistol held by the goddess of wrath as I relieved her of her Command. The Gem is the first creature I have feared."

“From what I’ve been getting on your trip over, she seems keenly locked on to you, so unfortunately no. I myself cannot interfere without proper grounds to do so either, so my hands are tied on the matter.” It did pain him on the matter, as he had to handle things delicately right now. Even despite his wife’s pleading, the only thing that could be done was assign a guard. It was then that a lightbulb figuratively lit over his head, “Aliset my dear… Call our son to your side, and tell him he is to be your protection at my request.”

As if on cue, the great beast from before, came overhead once more. This time flying past, before veering off towards the palace, to land somewhere on it’s grounds. The cars were not that far behind, as they entered the city center, turning into the circular street that surrounded it. The palace itself was more ornate then the other buildings, but still within the aesthetic of the city, looked like a fortress. It’s parameter was heavily guarded, surrounded by walls and iron fences, as well as a full security checkpoint at it’s gate.

As the vehicles pulled up to the heavy gate, fully armored guards standing by, opened before letting them both cruise through a set of car sized multispectral scanners. Papers were not needed given geists, as IFF and clearance were simple pop ups on both vehicles as they came through.

The two Drhuvians seemed much more at home and comfortable in the castle that was the palace. The gem specifically was looking all around at every little thing, the guards in particular. Her hand traced her arm and rested in the empty ribs of the ammo caddy sat across her outer bicep. It would take one good round, she bet.

The delegate swatted Alloy’s hand off her arm as a minor check to the feral guard. She then looked to the guard that had been accompanying the two and gave a polite nod. “This is much more like home. Guards, defense, our color schemes even seem to match. I’m sure they mean different things, however. Where is our host?” She questioned, taking another look out of the window to find the one man who was probably wearing some overly royal and luxurious clothing compared to all the armor that was guiding them deeper.

As the car pulled to a stop, Aliset smiled into her handheld again. "Isn't Suttessetu supposed to finalize her Duskerian medical license and her practice paperwork today? I believe your mother was to handle that paperwork personally, and as much as I'd love the mighty dragon Prince Heinrich to guard me as his own treasure, he already has to keep one silverskin in line. I doubt he needs the stress of two more, and only one approaching civility. Though I will at least greet him. If I can find Gale, it would be nice to finally meet the one who's had my cousin's heart for so long. Have fun at the talks, dear. I hope to hear your impressions and the policy details. Perhaps at dinner? I'm on galley duty."

Galestrix couldn't help it. She was fidgeting and fiddling with the rather nice and quite formal outfit she was wearing, whilst standing next to Archduke Mark. "Are you sure I should be the one here? Wouldn't my grandfather have been the better choice for such an important meeting?" She asked, looking over to him. She would have been flying with Heinrich earlier had this whole diplomatic meeting not been happening right now.

“Miss Oaklen is with me currently Ali, as an attending representative of the local Vaigarin and Tumisian populace. As much as he may want to be elsewhere, our son still has his duties as crown prince, that includes looking after the well being of his mother. If Sir Rorik were not already dutifully at my guard, I would have sent him to your side.” The archduke smiled as if perhaps enjoying the circumstances a bit too much.

“Please stay safe, and try not to cause too much mischief my dear. Ta ta, the meeting is soon, and I need to finish readying.”, Mark added with a small chuckle before closing the line. “Apologies, my daughter in law, but it was your grandfather’s idea. I believe he chuckled about something like familial bonding.”

Once dressed once again, still getting used to the strange sensation that always lingered a bit from shifting, went out to meet the arriving delegation. Dressed in his formal wear, he descended the steps, his tail swaying absentmindedly behind him as he did. The best and casual smile he could give, was on his face as he approached while he had Asteri on his arm in attendance, waving to the group as the pair drew near.

“Greetings, I am Heinrich Oaklen, son of Archduke Oaklen. I’ve come to help escort you to your meeting with my father, and the representative of the local populace of this world. I hope the trip was pleasant, and that you enjoy your time here in the capital, and possibly anywhere else you wish to visit while in the territory.” The crown prince gave a bow, and even waved to Aliset to mark the end of his greeting.

Gale sighed, and pinched her nose a moment. "That sounds like him. He gets too much enjoyment out of throwing us, what's that saying again? 'Under the bus' wasn't it? Also, I get that it's tradition for your people, but I never did formally adopt the 'Oaklen' family name." She replied giving Mark a sidelong glance, easing her own fidgeting to try and present a properly somber appearance, the draping shoulder cape properly held down into place by weighted pieces of circular metal with a painted face showing the NDC emblem.

Asteri played around with her feathered boa, smiling at Aliset, though she was forced to bow with Heinrich- not that she minded. She supposed this was a suitable enough matter to be serious. Though, when the prince was finished, she giggled a bit at Heinrich’s proclamation. “It hopefully shouldn’t be too hard to find enjoyment on this planet,” Asteri stated to.. The person that wasn’t Aliset, “Though you do have to be aware that it’s either almost all technology, with Obsidian City, or almost all nature. Though, if you do stop by, I recommend seeing a Tumisian village- I swear, they can climb anything that’s greater than one degree away from outright verticality!”

Asteri paused for a moment, before continuing on: “That, and there will always be a Tumisian near a Vaigarin. The Tumisians like being close to them.”

The Drhuvian delegate watched as the two people greeted her and her guard. They sat in a moment of relative silence, exchanging a conversation between each other as the scent of fresh cut logs filled their space. Alloy turned her head to examine the state of Aliset, checking her for anything telling. To the gem, this looks like a winning fight.

To the poor secretary of finance, however, things became more complicated. There are two more people watching and it earned her discomfort. She was hoping she could escape any large confrontation and just meet with two representatives in a small room to talk. This was already grand enough, convoys, palaces… It was her turn to talk. “It is good to meet you.” Her voice was an almost monotone repeating of a generic script learned at some school. She took a pause, shifting her coat and slacks back to before the car ride. “Please, lead the way.” That should suffice. Her only real time with representatives and such were between similar people, secretaries and assistants sitting behind figure heads.

Aliset gave a courteous bow to Heinrich, along with a smile to Asteri. "Ah, Heinrich, my dear, you are ever so welcoming! How is Sutes doing? Is she still pulling her hair out over the legal system your people have set up?"

Aliset gave no indication of her nervousness, aside a sharp, cold scent barely perceptible to waft off her skin, one that would have other tsulrati nearby feeling skittish or on edge. She offered a smile to the Drhuvian delegation as she turned. "I understand it is rather uncommon to see a Drhuv outside the Black Wall. Representative, I pray your forging new allegiances proves fruitful and prosperous to all. Thank you for coming all this way. The staff here will do everything reasonable for your comfort and you need only ask."

“I would like to preface that I am only here to lead you to my father, and our representative of the local peoples of this. Afterwards, I will be out of your hair and instead acting as attendant to the Senti woman who accompanied you. Right this way please.” With that, the prince with wife on his arm, led the way for the group. “To answer your question about Sutes, she is well, and may join us later. We can talk more later when such important matters are not as pressing.”

The group would be led up the steps of the palace, it’s fortified exterior giving way to marble, dark wood, and silver detailing once they were inside. There were more guards, all standing vigil at their posts, faces hidden behind visors, even as personnel moved about during their usual tasks. Much like before, all races represented, even synthetics and autonomous humanoid machines. All looked like office workers, officials in formal wear, or even the occasional military, or intelligence personnel. The facility was truly a hub of government activity, something that was probably expected even by the delegate perhaps, those of the NDC could not possibly know this early in the meetings of the two.Meanwhile as they neared the destination that was the royal hall and council chamber, one guard stood out from the rest.

Waiting at the door in a long military coat of a different nature, a pair of swords at his hip, a sidearm at the other, had a more regal appearance to his station and attire. The man with dark brown hair, and irises of a surprisingly almost iridescent silver color, bowed in silent greeting before opening the door for the group. Inside was the Archduke in his white royal wear, both signs of his position and naval command adorned, with Gaelstrix beside him. Further in, a man of similar appearance, his royal garbs black with military insignia stood before the other throne.

“Now that they have arrived, brother, I shall leave you to your affairs. I must speak with some of my officers on the information brought to us in the last meeting about the unknowns that skimmed our border, as well as the black sheep’s whispers of another nation in the north of the region.” Came his more serious voice from there, Archduke Jack giving a small bow as well to the delegation. “Archduke Pine, the other ruler, pleased to meet you. I shall look forward to future meetings, perhaps next time it will be me attending such.”

As the other lord left the room to a side chamber, Archduke Mark greeted the delegate in turn, “Welcome indeed, we can speak here in the smaller meeting room to our right.” Gesturing, he directed to another side chamber, this one on the opposite side of the current room. Once led inside, Heinrich directed Aliset to follow him aside, while the delegate, and two NDC reps went into the meeting chamber.

The delegate kept an anxious silence all the while she had been led. Two people to be meeting with, not the one she had been expecting. Her and Alloy had continued their previous conversation, leaving a trail of temperate forest smells in their wake with Alloy having to resort to various other signals due to her species. Once inside the smaller meeting room and in relative solitude, the representative took a deep sigh until fully relaxed. Much more of her environment. Another look into her data pad, the final reminder of what she was here for. Katamura and beyond. She took a seat and waited for the other two representatives to follow. That one with the less formal clothing, the representative of the local species for the planet, will not be nearly as big of a problem as the Secretary of Finance was expecting. Surely this is only an obligation of the planet they occupied.

“I haven’t spoken much since I have come here.” Time for first words, greetings and other niceties. “I am Fellen, the Secretary of Finance for the Drhuvian Council. I am in position second to the Head of Finance. You may refer to me in any way comfortable. Alloy,” She turned to the impatient guard that had idled diagonal behind her. “You may go-” She hastily turned back to address Mark and Gale, “If she is allowed. Alloy is no longer needed here. We have learned with her species that if there is no interesting work, they will make it. I’d prefer there to be as little chance at interruption as possible.” Mild prejudice, maybe, but she had little care for the words she spoke, likewise with Alloy. They both had a common interest in cancelling out any Senti influence, even if Aliset were not present, there could still be interference.

[Alloy, Heinrich, Asteri and Aliset continued in Finance and Frustration: Palace]

Galestrix nodded, not at all bothered by the wanting to send the other Senti woman away. After all, technically speaking, there weren't any NDC guards in the room right now. At least physically present. "A pleasure to meet you, Secretary Fellen. I am Galestrix Bahum, granddaughter of the Elder Bahum, Uledor Bahum, to represent the native peoples of Sirris II." She said, giving a slightly more formal bow. She didn't go for the full Bahum greeting, since there wasn't nearly enough space for it, and she wasn't wanting to steal the focus from Mark doing his part of things.

Aliset offered Jack a soft bow and a sultry smile as he left, then waited outside the meeting room with Heinrich. "So. That woman of my species, just so you know, is not a senti. That term comes from 'Followers of Sentisura' and refers to the nomadic deep space faring peoples of flotillas such as Shurista, Turassiel, or Sutrata… Those are the main three in the area. The Gem of the Collective is Drhuvian."

Her gentle correction to Heinrich waited for relative privacy, and was spoken in soft tones, careful to avoid sounding scolding. "Our species is called Tsulrati. But generally we refer to planetborns by the local culture they grew up with, just like spaceborns. I am Tsulrati by species, Senti by culture, and Shuristan by home. If Mark and I decide to have children, they will likely be Tsulrati, Duskerian, and Sirrisian in the same vein. Or human. She is Tsulrati, Drhuvian, and I do not know her homeworld. I look forward to meeting the woman who stole my cousin's heart from the stars. Rumor claims she is another of your wives, Prince? You do spread yourself like a fine wine. Would make my mother proud to have you as a nephew.."

Heinrich cleared his throat before pulling Asteri closer, “Yes, as well as Asteri here who is also one of my wives. On top of her, Gale, and Sutes. There are three others, including the vaigarin elder of my….scale family, Tiamer. Also I look forward to the day I can be a brother once again, even as simple of a joy that might sound.” The prince, even with all due respect, wasn’t much in continuing the topic on the senti guard, as it was hardly a problem at this point, he hoped. Only a fool with a death wish, would start altercations in a palace of all places.

If anything, getting her mind off them seemed like a good idea, with how high strung it made Aliset seem. She had practically ignored his wife’s presence right beside them, and didn’t want the fox woman to be left aside from the meeting. He gave her a look too as he had pulled Asteri closer, as if saying well say hi to your daughter in law.

In the meeting room however, Mark gave a honorary slight bow in greeting, having let Gale do her introduction first. After all, she was the unknown, the Archduke being the one known which made any introduction of his a formality. “Likewise, a pleasure to have you here Miss Fellen. I would like to preface before we begin, that your request in the prior meeting was accepted. I will have a datapad brought with all intel on the pirates that the representative requested from Captain Adamos.”

“Excellent.” Fellen almost expressed excitement as she tacked away on the glass of her personal data pad. While her head was down, Alloy stealthed out of the room and to the group that was gathered outside. The delegate raised her head and didn’t look any surprised at what now looked like an interrogation. “I was prepared for that to be the main target for today, but with that already approved, I leave the floor to anything you would want to discuss before I move to my secondary options.”

Galestrix settled herself to wait and listen, as while yes, she was here to represent her world, since formally Sirris II, while the new homeworld of the NDC, was not yet fully integrated into the nation. Her role in this meeting was to at least make sure it's native peoples had some presence in discussions which could very well affect them. As well as give them a voice to show their own status as a separate peoples.

So for now, she was more a 'window' into her world's culture, than an actual member of the delegation for this meeting, unless things were brought up that actually required her to be an active participant.

“I was actually curious at what sort of standing the collective are hoping to establish here today, or if this is simply a gauging session?” Mark was probably not as blunt as his brother, and more on the tactful side for diplomacy, but he still figured it was a question best asked candidly. The archduke simply wanted to know what his guests goal was, or what else they hoped to get out of the meeting. “Much as Adamos expressed on our behalf in the prior meeting, we would like to learn more about your civilization. And if possible, create an amicable relation between both.”

Having completed her primary goal of the meeting, Fellen showed much more ease with the foreigners. The seemingly tight lipped woman had relaxed and finally set down her data pad. “The Council is aiming for both today. Though, judging by the warm welcome, tolerances to outsiders and relatively relaxed security, not that it is a bad thing, we have little to worry about. You seem to trust us, we have no reason to not trust you.” She caught herself being a bit too friendly, this is a chat between two nations meeting, not good friends. She sat up and returned to a more proper presentation, though rested her arms on the table and held a smile. As friendly as she was being, it looked like she was staring at a prey about to step into a trap.

“I am pleased to hear that. We try to not make security overbearing, or more subtle, to not distract from discussions like these. Trust is indeed correct, as you have given us no reason not to yet, and we are not looking for enemies if avoidable. I’m sure your people understand the sentiment as well.” Mark raised his cup, taking a sip of his drink to moisten his throat again. No sense in letting himself get hoarse, least not during such important exchanges. “We open our doors in good faith, and in the respect that we may exist in each other’s perceptions of this sector, amicably.”

It took a deep breath before the delegate spoke again, a method of smelling the room. She may not know the pheromone patterns of the species before her, but if they are close to Drhuvs, she can at least infer and guess. The rest can come from regular observations of their body language, where their hands and teeth are and what they are doing. Next objectives… “I believe the most mundane but obvious topic for now would be discussing how our nations would connect to each other. I cannot stay forever, in fact, I have very little time compared to what I would want to conduct diplomacy. Work as a secretary is oftentimes demanding. I cannot enjoy a break in foreign lands for long.”

“I can, however, allow you to keep one of ours for a small time until we may return. My guard, as rough and annoying as she is, would be an excellent representation of who we are. I would ask you not bother her with diplomacy. She is politically trained. She is not politically capable. I would arrange for her to stay alone. Mind you, we typically keep in packs and her being Senti, this is especially true. You will have an advantage, though, of course, I would ask you to allow her all the equipment she brought on the trip here. I would not ask her skills to become rusty, nor you bear her neurotic restlessness when kept from working. You could test your troops against her if you so please. So long as she returns alive without any malice done towards her.”

After her long proposal, she lifted her shoulders up and moved back from the table to keep from seeming informal. Regardless of if she had respect or not for these smooth skinned creatures that seemed so keen on melding themselves with creatures, this was diplomacy.

Galestrix pondered carefully. "I will have to state this much Archduke. If she is to be here as a guest of the NDC, I speak for the people of Sirris II when I ask that you do what you can to keep her from being too destructive a presence. While I won't dictate to you where she can and cannot go, if she causes trouble in any Tumnisian or Vaigarin managed city, the incident will be held upon the NDC." She said, She looked like she'd eaten something that was extremely distasteful to her in doing so, but she was here to represent her peoples, and for as much as she had grown to be a seen as a part of the NDC these days, she had to consider the whole of the world, not just the newcomer political entity.

Meaning she had to make it clear that, as this meeting was between the NDC and the Dhruv's, Sirris II's involvement was entirely in that it was a neutral ground due to the world not fully absorbed by the NDC.

With a subtle shift of the jaw as usual, as if to say something, the archduke suddenly paused. Tightening instead, he leaned forward to clasp his fingers in front of him, as if in serious thought. With the sense of smell their guest had, it might have become clear that something was now a bother. Suffice it to say, he was not pleased with his guests’ behavior.

“To be frank with you Miss Fellen, that request may need to be seriously reconsidered. Miss Alloy has drawn blood, and is currently antagonizing the Duchess consort. She is attempting to incite violence on palace grounds, I'm sure I do not need to spell out the situation this would cause if it had been allowed to go further. If your guard is allowed to stay at all after this, she will be under the severest scrutiny during her stay.”

It was almost sensory overload to listen to. It was a good day, at least mostly. Now ruined by some rowdy Senti that the king himself ensured was viable for work. To trust a Berserker….

The woman shifted and took a deep inhale, listening to what her nose told her about the situation at hand. At how Alloy had pushed her representative into a wall and demanded she dig herself out of it. "What are the penalties?" Fellen questioned, raising her lowering head at a new idea she had to deal with this pest she brought along. "What are your nation's penalties for her actions?"

“For attempted assault, prison, at least five years on average. At least that would be the case in the city, in the palace it is much more severe punishment depending on how situations play out. In this case since she was stopped before any serious injury to anyone, the normal, however I will pardon her under the stipulation that she be removed and taken back with you. Any future visit will be very unlikely to be approved, and even if so, she will be barred from the palace, military installations, and possibly the city.”

His look was not angry, but serious nonetheless. “I would respectfully hope that your guards are better chosen in the future, as I have hope, this will not become a regular occurrence. She may still visit any of our other worlds, or stations, but not the capital or Sirris II itself if this is deemed so. If it is any consolation, I do not blame this on you Miss Fellen, as you seem equally disappointed in the situation.”

Galestrix bristled slightly as she listened, and seemed to catch another smell, but this one from outside the room. "While I won't say I know precisely what occurred, I can imagine, by the fact I'm smelling it from here, that Heinrich was much more displeased with what happened than either of us could be, so far removed from the incident as we are." She said, She could have been in the meeting and riding on her Geist on the network to see, but she also knew it would be extremely distracting, which would make her less than ideal for doing this discussion. So she was focused solely on the here and now in this room with the senses with which she'd been born.

"But if this is the kind of eagerness that your escort is willing to demonstrate as her normal way of things, I would have to state if she were staying, she would find herself barred from any Tumnisian or Vaigarin city in the world. While the world is far from the safest out there- and we are no strangers to violence- we also do not tolerate conflict for its own sake. And that would look poor upon the Dhruvians, and as thus recommend to the Archdukes, that either they cut ties with your nation wholesale were you to insist... Or that the NDC dismantle all they've built on Sirris II and leave." She said, firmly.

It was quite true. The Tumnisians and Vaigarins were not pacifists, but they also avoided massively destructive conflicts amongst themselves because they understood that conflict simply weakened everyone involved to the point of being more vulnerable to the dangerous wildlife on the planet to the point of risking entire cities being wiped out, and with the Vaigarin's significant lack of numbers compared to the Tumnisians, the Family's were even more loath to go to conflict without good justification, since the damage done could be so great that entire Family's would be wiped out.

"Because while, yes, the NDC have established their capital upon this world, and are thusly the main representatives of these talks, they are, as much as you are Madam, guests of the world accepted by the people of Sirris II. For all they've brought to us, the last great conflict that happened upon our world, some two thousand years ago, resulted in the dismantling of an entire culture, top to bottom. A culture that had stood for as long as any of the other Hundred that stand still." She explained, thinking of the ashamed look her grandfather had given her as he explained about the fact that the Vaigarin had intentionally tore a Family apart to prevent a worse tragedy.

And she knew the native peoples of this world would be willing to do it again, even to a society as friendly as the NDC has been with them in order to protect themselves.

This only added to her hatred towards this guard. She quickly responded towards the two almost with violence in certainty and dedication to her words. “You may have her. She has stepped away from her place as my guard and I no longer claim her, nor does the Council as I speak on their behalf. I offer that you may imprison her. As to not be a total drain on your systems, I will grant all of the equipment of hers currently stored in orbit to you. You may keep her as long as you wish. We ask you not tamper with her equipment, as it is still Drhuvian. I’m certain you can force her to pay back the blood she sheds ten-fold. What better way to train soldiers than a skilled opponent?” The secretary had finally found a reason to rid herself of days with that guard. Not only that, finally ensured that the word Drhuv had only claws and leather associated with it. Not some unmannered fool who only knew how to cause problems.

Besides, Nothing else would be worthy to their hosts. Fellen would not insult the two representatives with a low offer, especially after the threat of the Collective being entirely barred from further diplomacy that they value far more than the life of some Tsulrati, some tool.

“Feel free to ship down only her personal effects, and all issued gear you can take with you. If it is not to be tampered with, then there is no point keeping it here, when you may still have use for it. As per your agreement, she will be detained shortly, and held for her crimes.” Mark answered, being respectful in tone as not to further upset the already delicate situation. This was just what he needed today, an uncontrollable wildcard of a savage animal.

Some days the archduke if every nation had a spark, and it was disappointing to just how much evidence was coming forth towards the likely answer of yes. On the other hand, he was concerned for his wife, but also knew she was a big girl and could handle herself. She had withheld herself thus far, and the ruler hoped she could for only a little while more. “I am deeply regretful that such events have soured this meeting, but I hope that the next can be more peaceful, even enjoyed perhaps.”

Fellen managed a sigh of relief. She didn't respond to the duke, not out of disrespect, but out of simply needing time. She brought her hand to her datapad and began inputting the various chords to message the small escort fleet above. She brought her spare hand to her head and resisted the possibility of cutting herself with her own claws if she pinched the bridge of her nose any harder. "It is ironic you are the one to say that. I would have expected myself to be in the position to say apologies. If she gets any worse, by Isomeria I will step from this room and deal with her myself. It seems she will not listen to any other authority."

After her hand finally settled and the secretary was returned with a confirmation, she brought herself together again. "I would not ask for another to enact my vengeance upon my countryman. Ensure she becomes well aware of how little power she has, please." Hands sat neatly on the table, straighten her posture, breathe…

"I suppose the next order of business would be, hopefully, establishing a line of communication between our two nations. Perhaps a routine of some sorts, there are plenty of candidates j have located that would enjoy regular visits to a new foreign nation. None will be as terrible as the Apollyon that remains outside of the door. I will ensure none fall to the other extreme of fraternization. Neither can be good for talks."

Hoping to ease some of the representative’s frustrations, and perhaps lighten the tension of such stresses, the archduke began to share an offer. “I look forward to it, and if I may even. I have a few suggestions on the matters of communication. I would like to offer the possibility of a jointly run midway point, to ease travel, and even perhaps future trade if things turn out favorable with future meetings. We can also supply a satellite that can be left outside of your territory as a communications relay, if you would permit.” A small casual smile was given to help relax the discussion.

"Yes. We will need to review the systems we charted and spotted to find a good meeting place. We'd prefer that all future talks are in person as well." The point of trade was an issue to talk about. Fellen was fortunate enough to know that trade would be a massive boost, especially in product variety, to the Drhuvian economy. She was unfortunate to be trained and indoctrinated against the idea of a more open economy. She chose to simply act as if it was not spoken about.

"As for a communications relay, that will be a challenge. We do not know your systems and if they are even remotely compatible to ours. The language pack we gave to you used the Senti information architectures as that is all we had to worry about. That pack is an exception, not a rule. I am not a researcher, scientist, what have you, but I would guess that we would need to explore the idea of something that utilizes systems similar to that of our mutual… contact." She dare not call them anything more. "If we are to stay in this system for a few cycles, I am certain I can find a more knowledgeable person aboard my escorts that you may talk to. Is this favorable?"

“Likewise then, I will bring in our science specialist, and can collaborate on a solution. We know from the last encounter, that we can in fact receive and send signals on a basic level. I’m sure with the minds of our brightest together, can create a more efficient medium of communication. Please enjoy your stay here, and let us know if you require anything while here.” With that Mark gave a nod in agreement, wondering if future meetings would have tense moments like what happened out in the hall. If all went well, he hoped not, as long as they both kept their wildcards in check.

On a side line of thinking, he could only wonder what his brother was thinking as it all went down during his own meeting. Surely he was in for a few pointed jests his way when they reconvened.

"Of course." As Fellen finished her side of things, the previously silenced one handed tapping of her data pad arose. Some debrief, summary, what not. Done in a minute. Having no response besides a confirmation, the representative slowly rose to her feet and fixed her uniform. "I had wished this meeting to be uneventful. I can only apologize on behalf of the council and those we protect. I will be finding my way back to my ship, the fleet will land at a nearby uninhabited planet. We will return tomorrow. Thank you for hosting us." She rounded the table and walked to the door, leaving with a calm trail of pine smells and boot falls.

Galestrix waited until the Dhruvian 'diplomat' left before letting out the breath she didn't even realize she had been holding. "Stars... I sincerely hope I didn't just risk a... what did you call it? International incident?" She asked Mark, looking over, just happy she didn't have to be so upright, prim and proper.

“You get used to it. Not bad though for taking your elder’s shoes for the first time. Now that is done, you might want to go check on your husband, think he could use an unwind.” Mark said this with a small reassuring grin, not really pleased at how things went, but happy they were over for now all the same. The archduke would have to have a chat with his wife later on the topic of their new resident, one he was already somewhat not fond of for the trouble she caused. At least it was a learning experience for everyone involved at the very least.