ST:SoD216 | "A Question of Direction Pt. I"

Stardate 99749.6

Keelah and the Valley Forge acts as arbitrators for a civilization torn between a future with the Dominion and the Commonwealth. In the process, they begin to learn much more about the state of the region, including some shadowy details...

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Keliaya@anncaris | The Valley Forge continues to travel through the Gamma Quadrant, following their An escort in search of the Lexington Keliaya@anncaris | On just another day of quiet cruising, the lift doors open and Kelly steps out onto the bridge, now back in her Valley Forge uniform with the red command stripe Keliaya@anncaris makes her way over to Keelah on the captain's chair, "Captain. How're things going today?" Keelah@crystyl looks over with a slight smile, "Let us see, the most noteworthy event so far has been seeing you back in your old uniform and guessing who will tease you first about it this time" Keliaya@anncaris chuckles, "And who's your guess, then?" Keelah@crystyl | Lennie laughs and calls over from the science station, "I think th'Cap'n's already landed th'first hit!" Keelah@crystyl politely declines to comment further Keliaya@anncaris:"If she guessed herself, that's not quite fair, is it..." she smirks, glancing back to Lennie. "How's Junior doing? Is he still nervous around the An, or has he gotten used to travelling with them - Keliaya@anncaris:- already by now?" Keelah@crystyl | Lennie: "I think he's acclimatizin' now! He seems t'have accepted as part o'his pack - as it were - but any time they make a move he don't expect, like changin' direction different t'us or - Keelah@crystyl:- somethin', he gets ancy still" Keelah@crystyl nods, "And there are still signs of the Valley Forge reacting to Junior too. See, this is what happens what you let a Chief away from her ship for too long" Keelah@crystyl | Rianni looks up, "Ok, the Captain definitely had money on herself getting in the first jab today!" Keliaya@anncaris:"Certainly seems like it..." Keelah@crystyl:"Joking aside, our computer does seem to have retained something of this maternal instinct around Junior. So now that you are back, expect to have your hands fulls as we get to grips with that" Keliaya@anncaris nods, "Thanks for the warning. Mia's working on determining just how much instinct is still there, I assume?" Keelah@crystyl:"Yes, though able as she is to commune with the computer. She is out of her depth assessing such things, naturally" Keelah@crystyl | Lennie: "I got all mah folks with th'skills tryin' a figure stuff out. But nobody knows th'tech like yaself Kel" Keliaya@anncaris:"If only we had Mana along too...I'll look into it and try and understand this instinct of the Forge's." Keelah@crystyl:"We're not expecting miracles, and nobody has designs on purging it. We just need to understand our ship the way we always have done" Keliaya@anncaris nods, "Having something like a natural instinct could be useful, as we saw with the Gainsborough. If anything, it might be a good idea to have something like that in ships so they can respond - Keliaya@anncaris - faster than we can. I think it's part of the reason Mana's working on the Coalition project, but I'm pretty sure Pia knows more about that than I do at this point," she chuckles Keelah@crystyl:"It would be good for her to have something to focus her energy on out here, so feel free to draw her in to support as you see fit" Keliaya@anncaris:"I'll be sure to do that. Speaking of Pia, it's end of shift and getting late. I can take over here, you get some rest and go spend some time with Pia," she smiles Keelah@crystyl smiles and stands, "If nothing else, the roster is glad to have you back. Enjoy the late shift" with that she heads off Keliaya@anncaris takes the chair, glancing back to Lennie with a smile, "It's a lot less daunting than the first time. Hopefully Farhalla's under less stress taking over as Chief on the Loki." Keliaya@anncaris | Ann: "Well, Loki doesn't get into half the trouble we do!" Keliaya@anncaris:"There's that, too.” Keelah@crystyl | Lennie sagenods at Ann's comment Keelah@crystyl | Lennie: "Glad t'hear th'chair's gettin' comfy for ya" Keliaya@anncaris | The lift opens again and Eva steps out, relieving TQ for the late shift Keliaya@anncaris:"And relieved you don't have to step in as XO too, I hope?" Keelah@crystyl | Lennie: "Damned straight!" Keelah@crystyl | Rianni smiles, "Come on Commander, you did great as XO! And I still you think you secretly enjoyed it sometimes" Keelah@crystyl | Lennie laughs, "Not half as much as you!" Keliaya@anncaris chuckles, "Maybe we should just give you the Aethon to command permanently." Keelah@crystyl | Rianni opens her mouth to chime in, but is drawn to a change on her console. She starts tapping, "Commander, the An are altering course" Keliaya@anncaris:"There isn't a planned course alteration, is there?" Keliaya@anncaris | Ann shakes her head, "Not tha' I was told." Keliaya@anncaris | Eva: "I'm asking them now." Keelah@crystyl | Lennie nods, "Junior's gettin' twitchy. Gonna try another hue shift on th'facin' exterior lights" Keelah@crystyl | The active lights on one side of VF facing junior slowly shift to a bluish hue, and after a moment Junior seems to settle, but stays closer to VF Keliaya@anncaris watches, "Looking good so far. Let's change course to match." Keliaya@anncaris | Ann: "Aye Commander." Keliaya@anncaris | Eva: "The An are apparently moving to intercept a ship that broke free of a nearby blockade." Keliaya@anncaris:"A nearby blockade? I thought this area was already controlled by the An and not under active conflict?" Keliaya@anncaris | Eva: "The region isn't, but it's a complicated political situation on a specific planet." Keelah@crystyl | Lennie: "Figures..." Keliaya@anncaris | Eva: "They apologize for the inconvenience and plan on resuming our regular course as soon as they've apprehended the runaways and returned them to their world of origin." Keelah@crystyl | Lennie: "I got a hit on long range now" Keliaya@anncaris:"Probably the ship they're trying to intercept. Keep an eye on them and give me a tactical analysis when we're close enough." Keelah@crystyl | Rianni: "On it" Keliaya@anncaris | A short while later, the VF reaches close enough proximity for a more in-depth scan... Keelah@crystyl | Rianni: "It looks like a typical merchant vessel; small, maneuverable. But it is only armed with basic phaser turrets, not a significant threat to any of our convoy" Keliaya@anncaris nods, "These supposed runaways probably grabbed the first ship they could. Or maybe multiple ships tried the blockade, and this is the only one that made it through." Keelah@crystyl | Rianni: "The An are charging weapons and have raised shields?! But... why- wait, what the? The blockade runner is multiplying!" Keliaya@anncaris:"Any tachyon particles or traces of cloaking activity?" she looks to Lennie Keelah@crystyl | Rianni shakes her head, "Nothing" Keliaya@anncaris | Just as Lennie says this, the An open fire on one of the blockade runners. The shot seems to pass right through it Keelah@crystyl | Lennie: "Holo projections maybe?" Keliaya@anncaris | The blockade runner that gets hit disappears from sensors, and another one of them suddenly separates into two Keliaya@anncaris nods, "It must be a trick. See if you can determine which is the real one. And take us to yellow alert, just in case it starts firing. The turrets might not get through our hull, but let's not - Keliaya@anncaris - have to fix the paintjob if we can avoid it." Keelah@crystyl | Rianni smiles and raises the alert Keelah@crystyl | Lennie gets to work trying to identify the real ship, or at least a way to disrupt the illusions Keliaya@anncaris | Shields flicker around the VF as it goes to yellow alert Keliaya@anncaris looks to Eva Keliaya@anncaris | Eva shakes her head, "I'm not sensing life on /any/ of them." Keelah@crystyl:rolls 34 (1-100) Keelah@crystyl | Lennie frowns, "Well, they got me stumped. I can't tell one from th'other" Keliaya@anncaris | The An fires a deflector pulse which seems to disperse half the blockade runner illusions. However, the other half have already made their way past the An now. Fortunately, the VF can still - Keliaya@anncaris - catch them all in a single deflector pulse, and Lennie is confident she can recreate what the An did from her scans of it! Keelah@crystyl | Lennie starts working, "So tha's how ya spot 'em! Hey boss, I can give another burst like tha' on th'ones wha' passed th'An" Keliaya@anncaris nods, "Do it and have the tractor beam standing by to catch the real one, if there /is/ a real one to catch." Keelah@crystyl | Lennie nods and fires the burst Keliaya@anncaris | The burst reveals that there is indeed a real blockade runner, which tries to make a break for it... Keelah@crystyl | Lennie continues to tractor the ship Keliaya@anncaris | The VF's tractor beam proves stronger, holding the ship in place. Just then, the lift doors open and Keelah steps back out, having seen the yellow alert Keelah@crystyl:"What's the situation?" Keliaya@anncaris stands, "Looks like the day got exciting just when you left. The An changed course to apprehend a ship that broke out of a nearby blockade. It tried to play a sensor trick and got by the An, but - Keliaya@anncaris - we've got it in a tractor beam now." Keliaya@anncaris | Eva: "Perfect timing, Captain. The blockade runner is hailing us." Keelah@crystyl takes her seat, "Very well. Let's hear what their take on this is" Keliaya@anncaris | The viewscreen switches from the view of the tractored ship to... Keliaya@anncaris FX | https://media.sketchfab.com/models/51854e73bcdd448da745c0864b1c678f/thumbnails/42e679ae3ad24be4913ecd6aadec972a/27180502009b45999ebd8a717786b179.jpeg Keliaya@anncaris | Robot: "You are not an An vessel. Are you a vessel originating from a Protectorate of the La'ani Commonwealth?" Keliaya@anncaris | It speaks with a distinct mechanical voice and one on the deep end, giving it a rather intimidating presence Keelah@crystyl:"No, we originate from a distant part of the galaxy. I regret that our introduction comes in this provocative manner, but there is clearly a matter of dispute here between yourselves and the An" Keliaya@anncaris | Robot: "Affirmative. You are travelling with the An, but you are not associated with the Commonwealth?" Keelah@crystyl:"Not directly. But they are allies who are helping us on our own mission at present. I am Captain Se'Lai of the Valley Forge, by the way" Keliaya@anncaris | Robot: "This is Unit Xera 18496, formerly of Ferrac City Enforcement. Captain Se'Lai of the Valley Forge, ally of the Commonwealth. What is your current standing with the Dominion?" Keelah@crystyl:"We are Starfleet, and act on behalf of the United Federation of Planets. My own personal last standing with the Dominion was when they attempted to invade Federation space and started a war with- Keelah@crystyl:- us. Since they were defeated, a tentative alliance has been maintained. But I have had no direct interaction with the Dominion in that time" Keliaya@anncaris | Robot: "The United Federation of Planets is currently allied with both the Commonwealth and the Dominion?" Keelah@crystyl:"It is a complicated situation that we are just uncovering for ourselves. Officially there is a non-aggression pact with the Dominion, signed at the end of the war. They have proven themselves - Keelah@crystyl:- allies since then by providing support in the past. The Federation as a whole is not yet aware of the An, nor has it had any direct contact with them or the Commonwealth. The far corner of the - Keelah@crystyl:- galaxy we came from is home to a larger Coalition of many species who came together to defend the galaxy from an ancient threat. The An had a presence there and became tertiary associations of the- Keelah@crystyl:- Federation through this contact and other mutual relationships" Keliaya@anncaris | Robot: "I calculate that your current political situation places you in a position to assist. Is your mission urgent, Captain Se'Lai?" Keelah@crystyl:"All urgency is subjective. We were obliged to step into this situation without knowing the facts. I do not intend to step away without remedying that" Keliaya@anncaris | Robot: "I assume the An vessel will wish to return us to Loreadon, our world of origin." Keliaya@anncaris | Eva: "That's what they said they'd do quickly when they moved to intercept the blockade runner, Captain." Keelah@crystyl nods, "That is our understanding. May I ask why you were attempting to break their blockade?" Keliaya@anncaris | Robot: "To rejoin the Dominion." Keelah@crystyl:"Your wording suggests that your world has seceded. But the blockade suggests this is having to be enforced" Keliaya@anncaris | Robot: "Our present political situation is complicated. I suggest first informing the An that we are willing to return peacefully, provided you return with us and grant your assistance. We may - Keliaya@anncaris - delineate the details once we are underway. Alternatively, the An will likely present their own explanation as well." Keelah@crystyl:"I am sure they will. I can not promise to provide assistance without first knowing the facts, but I am willing to escort you safely back to your world and hear you out. If we can find a way to - Keelah@crystyl:- help, then we will do what we can. But that is as much as I can commit to with our current limited knowledge" Keliaya@anncaris | Robot: "It will suffice. We are not in a position of strength to negotiate anything further. Thank you for your offer, Captain Se'Lai." Keelah@crystyl nods, "Now please bear with me while I consult with the An. We would not want to risk them jumping to conclusions should we release our tractor beam unexpectedly" Keliaya@anncaris | The robot nods back, "That is why I suggest communicating with them first. We will stand by." Keelah@crystyl:"Eva, hail the An. Assuming they haven't been hounding you all this time" Keliaya@anncaris | Eva chuckles, "How did you guess...putting them through now." Keliaya@anncaris | Commander Kesa, the head of their An escort, appears on the viewscreen Keelah@crystyl:"Commander" Keliaya@anncaris | Kesa: "Captain. You have our thanks for aiding in the apprehension of these runaways. I see they have been communicating with you." Keelah@crystyl:"Yes, they have consented to return to their world with no further resistance" Keliaya@anncaris | Kesa: "Excellent. We may take them back to Loreadon and be on our way, then. I apologize for the slight detour." Keelah@crystyl:"No apology is necessary. I hope that you will keep that in mind when you hear the next part; they have one caveat to this spirit of cooperation. They have asked us for assistance. It has not been - Keelah@crystyl:- promised, but since they asked I am obliged to hear them out. I understand that they wish to rejoin the Dominion and surmise that the blockade is in place to prevent that very action. I assume - Keelah@crystyl:- this stalemate is what they desire assistance with, but I honestly do not know the context yet" Keliaya@anncaris | Kesa: "Yes, you /would/ be the most well-suited to resolving this situation on Loreadon, as you currently have friendly relations with both the Commonwealth and the Dominion. If you have the - Keliaya@anncaris - time and are willing to serve as a neutral mediator, the Commonwealth would also appreciate your assistance here." Keelah@crystyl:"I am glad to hear that the Commonwealth is equally keen to find a resolution. Then we will return this ship to Loreadon and open a dialogue. Are you positioned to represent the Commonwealth, or - Keelah@crystyl:- would you defer to a local authority associated with the blockade?" Keliaya@anncaris | Kesa: "The Commonwealth does not require representation in this matter. We were previously attempting to fill the role as the neutral party, but due to the nature of the dispute, that did not - Keliaya@anncaris - go well. Hence, the blockade." Keelah@crystyl:"Curious. Well, you can see how little we understand of the situation still. I would welcome your council as we proceed" Keliaya@anncaris | Kesa nods, "We will provide you with a far more in-depth briefing once we are underway. Would you prefer to continue towing the vessel, or shall we take hold of it?" Keelah@crystyl:"I intend to give them a show of faith by releasing it and allowing them to demonstrate their sincerity by heading back under their own power. We will fly formation with them and immediately - Keelah@crystyl:- re-establish the lock if they deviate in any way. But they strike me as logical beings, so they know that any such action will negate their earlier plea for assistance" Keliaya@anncaris | Kesa: "I agree. They are, by our records, very logical beings. You may release them. The risk of them attempting to flee again after being apprehended is minimal, and even if they should act - Keliaya@anncaris - in such a manner, it would not be difficult to re-acquire them." Keelah@crystyl:"Exactly, and it is in their interests right now to curry our favour. So we will accompany them back to the planet and then proceed from there" Keliaya@anncaris | Kesa: "Very well. Let us get underway, and I will provide you with more context on the situation while we travel." Keelah@crystyl nods, "Eva, relay instructions to the blockade runner to return to the planet on a direct heading and not to deviate. Lennie, release the tractor as soon as they have acknowledged" Keliaya@anncaris | Eva nods back, tapping her console, "They acknowledge, Captain." Keelah@crystyl | Lennie: "Releasing th'tractor" Keelah@crystyl:"Ann, match course and speed. Keep them close" Keliaya@anncaris | Ann: "Aye Cap'n." Keliaya@anncaris | The blockade runner slowly forms up alongside the VF as it is released, and the group jumps away to warp... --- NPC@annpc#557 | As the VF and co. are underway, Commander Kesa contacts Keelah again to explain the situation... NPC@annpc#557 | Kesa appears on Keelah's console as the comm is routed into the ready room Keelah@crystyl:"Alright Commander, what can you tell me about the situation here?" NPC@annpc#557 | Kesa: "I'll start from the beginning. I presume you're familiar with our method of operation in this latest war with the Dominion? Despite what some may claim, we are not conquering Dominion - NPC@annpc#557 - territory. We are aiding worlds who have seceded from the Dominion, which the Founders are unwilling to let go despite not currently possessing the resources to support nor defend these - NPC@annpc#557 - worlds. Some of them have chosen to become Protectorates of their own volition, others continue on independently. They are free worlds now." Keelah@crystyl nods, "I recall the initial debrief to that effect" NPC@annpc#557 | Kesa: "Loreadon is a very unusual case. Before this war, it was a Dominion world. When our forces reached its vicinity, we received a call for assistance from the Loreadans to liberate them - NPC@annpc#557 - from a small Jem'Hadar garrison in the area. As per our usual operations, we did so and drove the Dominion out of the region." Keelah@crystyl:"So far so good" NPC@annpc#557 | Kesa: "When we arrived at Loreadon however, we discovered that the planet was inhabited not by one species, but by two. You see, the Loreadons, like the An and a number of other civilizations, - NPC@annpc#557 - had developed artificial intelligence advanced enough to be considered a form of life on their own. They call them the Jaxorren, which means something along the lines of Thinking Machines. - NPC@annpc#557 - They're the ones you spoke with." Keelah@crystyl:"So whilst the Loreadons wished to leave the Dominion, the Jaxorren wanted to remain" NPC@annpc#557 | Kesa nods, "More or less. It's not a clean divide, there's minorities among each that agree with the other side, but generally, most Loreadans wish to either become a Commonwealth Protectorate - NPC@annpc#557 - or an independent state, while the majority of Jaxorren wish to stay a part of the Dominion. The problem is, the Jaxorren control much of the defense system of Loreadon, and the Loreadans - NPC@annpc#557 - wanted us to liberate them not only from the Jem'Hadar, but the Jaxorren as well. The Andarash was unable to provide them military support, as without official Dominion forces present, this - NPC@annpc#557 - was a civil affair, not something we could interfere in." Keelah@crystyl:"That is certainly quite the dilemma. The logical solution would be for one or both parties to relocate in line with their preferences" NPC@annpc#557 | Kesa: "That's exactly what we thought as well. We invited representatives onto an Andarash ship to negotiate a resolution, aiming for a settlement where at least one party agreed to relocate. - NPC@annpc#557 - The negotiations were difficult, but we believed we were making progress when a bomb detonated in the meeting room, killing all the representatives. The Jaxorren blamed us because it happened - NPC@annpc#557 - on our ship, and by extension the Loreadans because they sought to join the Commonwealth. The Loreadans on the other hand blamed the Jaxorren because as mechanical beings, they had the means - NPC@annpc#557 - to rig their own bodies to explode. Our investigation was inconclusive- the detonation was a local energy signature which could have come from the power core of a Jaxorren, but the Loreadans - NPC@annpc#557 - use the same technology and could easily have made a bomb with an identical signature." Keelah@crystyl:"Or someone else could have intervened to destabilize the talks" NPC@annpc#557 | Kesa nods, "Possible. In any case, the bombing proved to be the final straw and all-out civil war erupted on Loreadon. That's when we blockaded the planet. The region is not the most stable, - NPC@annpc#557 - as you can imagine from recent events, and this local conflict had already claimed several An lives during the attack on the negotiations. We did not wish the conflict to spill out of the - NPC@annpc#557 - system, but the Andarash are also unable to support either side, as it's not within our mandate." Keelah@crystyl:"Well it is not exactly within ours either, but here we are" NPC@annpc#557 | Kesa: "And we're not asking you to interfere militarily. Having a neutral party might be enough to bring them to the negotiating table again, though. I think you'll have a better chance - NPC@annpc#557 - at it than we did, being a truly neutral party. But I won't lie, given what happened when we tried to facilitate negotiations, it could be dangerous." Keelah@crystyl:"Well, it's been a while since we played this game here. It is always good to keep one's skills sharp be it on the battlefield or the negotiating table. Not that there is much distinction between - Keelah@crystyl:- the two at times" NPC@annpc#557 | Kesa nods, "Certainly not much here, by the looks of it. The Commonwealth would certainly appreciate it if you can resolve this sooner rather than later. As we're still facing the Dominion on - NPC@annpc#557 - other fronts, we've got limited forces to commit here, so the blockade is far from impenetrable. We're keeping any well-armed ships out, but this isn't the first time a small runner's slipped - NPC@annpc#557 - through. On the surface, it seems they've kept the civil war civil enough so far, as neither side wants to ruin their planet. But it's still a war, and I'm sure the locals want it over with too. Keelah@crystyl:"Well at least one party seems to, and given that they're the artificial ones I find the odds to be substantially favourable that the biological half of this equation will agree" NPC@annpc#557 | Kesa: "I'm a bit surprised that the biological half have held out this long, to be honest. But I suppose we can be pretty tenacious when fighting for something we believe in, as can the - NPC@annpc#557 - Loreadans evidently. Though as an Andarash commander, I'd be naive to attribute it to willpower alone. From what we see from the blockade, their tactics have a role to play too." Keelah@crystyl:"And their technology, where applied. AI aside, their technique for bypassing the blockade was intuitive. In line with their tactical reasoning to properly apply it I can see why you are impressed" NPC@annpc#557 | Kesa: "The Jaxorren have the advantage of technology and superior coordination, but the Loreadans have knowledge of terrain, and their biological features actually provide them an advantage - NPC@annpc#557 - too. The synthetic Jaxorren have all but seized control of the major cities, but much of the inhabited landmass of Loreadon is covered by jungles and marshlands, which the Loreadans evolved - NPC@annpc#557 - in. Despite the superior physicality and sensory capabilities of the Jaxorren, the Loreadan are waging a very successful campaign of guerilla warfare." Keelah@crystyl:"Interesting. What can you tell me about the Loreadan's as a people?" NPC@annpc#557 | Kesa: "Biologically, they're very lean and agile. Perfect for climbing through the jungles or skulking about in swamps. They're more like our Kalan breed in terms of build, their sensory - NPC@annpc#557 - ability isn't as advanced, but a Loreadan in peak condition has the advantage of being faster and better climbers than any An breed." NPC@annpc#557 | Kesa: "Culturally, they've taken to using technology to make up for their deficiencies, namely a lack of physical size and strength. The Jaxorren were their ultimate answer to this, which is - NPC@annpc#557 - why the synthetics are big, tough and strong. There's multiple models made for various tasks, from defense and law enforcement to heavy labour. Eventually, the - NPC@annpc#557 - Loreadan recognized the Jaxorren as a form of life, but that only happened after the Dominion took over. It's one of the reasons the Jaxorren are so amenable to the Dominion." Keelah@crystyl:"I see, yes that makes sense. Thank you for the insights" NPC@annpc#557 | Kesa: "As for the Jaxorren, they've got a natural inclination to order which aligns well with the Dominion's ideals. Instead of tailoring whole new bodies to suit their whims, they simply - NPC@annpc#557 - improved upon the Loreadan designed models and continued producing them, serving in the same social roles to maintain the order of things. The two races largely co-existed peacefully until - NPC@annpc#557 - recent events. I'll send more detailed information for you to review." --- Keliaya@anncaris | In Mia's quarters, the doorbell chimes... Mia@crystyl calls out, "Come in! We won't be a moment" Keliaya@anncaris steps inside, looking around curiously to see what Mia's up to Mia@crystyl steps out of the bedroom a moment later and smiles, "Allo Ms. Kelly!" Keliaya@anncaris smiles back, "Hey Mia! Didn't catch you while you were charging, I hope?" Mia@crystyl shakes her head, "Non, we were just experimenting some!" Keliaya@anncaris tilts her head, "Experimenting? How so?" Mia@crystyl giggles, "Not the way you are thinking! We are measuring the impact of enforcing a daily grooming routine. So you caught us just getting out of the shower" Keliaya@anncaris:"Oh! That kind of experimenting!" She laughs. "What're the results so far?" Mia@crystyl hrms, "We are undetermined still. The hope is that it will further enable us to relate to everyday life with the rest of the crew" Mia@crystyl hesitates, "But... it has a negative impact on our processing capability..." Keliaya@anncaris:"Why's that?" Mia@crystyl:"Well for the most it just creates unnecessary distractions to interfere with time management, but that is the nature of the experiment and an acceptable balance. The sonic shower is the only real - Mia@crystyl:- troubling factor; it seems to inhibit our core processing functions, resulting in less runtime being allocated to current duties and more to trivial matters like the overwhelming urge to test the - Mia@crystyl:- acoustics of the shower unit. Which are quite remarkable by the way" Keliaya@anncaris:"So you're saying you're...enjoying the shower?" Mia@crystyl nods, "Oui! And on top of that, the tactile sensation it provides is quite distracting as well!" Keliaya@anncaris smirks, "Yes, most of us know that quite well. You don't have to maximize efficiency every moment, you know. If you feel like it, you could always go for a shower and divert some processing away - Keliaya@anncaris - from everything else. In fact, that's what a lot of people enjoy the shower for, other than the cleaning factor." Mia@crystyl hrms, "We do have logged memories of this sensation. It is simply a level of indulgence we have not previously - well - indulged in! But you are right to remind us that this distraction is part of - Mia@crystyl:- the life experience and so perhaps we should embrace it then! Keliaya@anncaris:"I think it would be a good idea too! I don't know how the concept applies to synthetic beings like you, but for us, relaxing and clearing our head usually makes us think more clearly when we next - Keliaya@anncaris:- start working." Mia@crystyl:"This is most fruitful input Ms. Kelly thank you! But... we calculate only a 1.63% chance that this is the reason you came by..." Keliaya@anncaris smiles, "I do enjoy checking up on you, but speaking of synthetic life, I did have something I wanted to consult with you on too." She gestures to the sofa, "May I?" Mia@crystyl:"Ooh, a curiosity! Yes of course! Please sit with us!" Keliaya@anncaris takes a seat, "I assume you've heard all about the latest happenings?" Mia@crystyl nods, "We have not been debriefed in detail, but are aware of the blockade running automatons asking for assistance" Keliaya@anncaris takes out a PADD, "Well, we've received a bit more information on those automatons from our An escort. They come from a planet called Loreadon, where they used to live in harmony with their - Keliaya@anncaris - creators until recently." Mia@crystyl:"A regrettably familiar tale" she nods Keliaya@anncaris:"Yes, unfortunately we hear about synthetics coming into conflict with their biological creators more than I'd like. But this case is a little unusual." Mia@crystyl:"How so?" Keliaya@anncaris:"Part of it is the involvement of the Dominion, but it's quite interesting even without their role in things. The majority of conflicts between synthetics and their creators tend to arise either by - Keliaya@anncaris:- the biological creators feeling threatened by the power held in the hands of those they created, or by the synthetics trying to break out of the more mundane roles they've been given to live life - Keliaya@anncaris:- as they want to." Mia@crystyl:"But that is not the case here?" Keliaya@anncaris shakes her head, "The Loreadans intentionally designed their creations, who they called the Jaxorren, to be better in the things they aren't. And they gave the Jaxorren positions of significant - Keliaya@anncaris - power like defense and enforcement. On the other hand, even after being accepted as a form of life, the Jaxorren were seemingly quite happy to serve in their original roles, which was why the - Keliaya@anncaris - two lived peacefully until now." Mia@crystyl:"It sounds as though they were made to fill a gap in the socio-economic structure of the society rather than to serve in the lower echelons of it as we normally see. We can certainly see that - Mia@crystyl:- creating a more balanced civilization in all. So what changed?" Keliaya@anncaris:"That's where the Dominion comes in. Loreadon was a part of the Dominion until recently, when the biological Loreadan asked the An to liberate them. The problem was, the Jaxorren apparently wants - Keliaya@anncaris:- to stay with the Dominion." Mia@crystyl:"So the population of the planet became divided over their shared future. Are the two species interdependent now?" Keliaya@anncaris:"To an extent, but not so much that they can't learn to exist independently. Unfortunately though, the negotiations were sabotaged by someone, and things turned for the worse from there," she - Keliaya@anncaris:- hands Mia the PADD. "Now both the Jaxorren on that ship and the An are asking us to be a neutral party to try and work something out again." Mia@crystyl:"sabotaged? That suggests that the negotiations were succeeding - which means hope for reconciliation - and that somebody did not want that to happen. Who else is involved in this situation?" Keliaya@anncaris:"The two sides, and the An who were facilitating the negotiation at the time and have now blockaded the planet when civil war broke out." Mia@crystyl:"Nobody else? Then the topic of prior negotiations must have been fundamentally flawed to the point of inciting rebellion" Keliaya@anncaris:"The An claims they were making progress, but it's possible the negotiators were, but there's someone particularly extreme who didn't agree and decided to sabotage the negotiations on their own - Keliaya@anncaris:- accord. Or it could be another party we don't know about, but there's not much we can do to learn about the sabotage until we get there. What I wanted to discuss with you was specifically these - Keliaya@anncaris - Jaxorren and their mindset, which might help Keelah with the negotiations." Mia@crystyl:"We would of course be more than happy to assist! Do you wish for us to attend and advise as talks progress? We can attempt to determine some initial premises' but with little to work from we can - Mia@crystyl:- guarantee their accuracy" Keliaya@anncaris nods and smiles, "That could be helpful. From what we know so far, it seems like the reason the Jaxorren remained in their original roles in Loreadon society and the reason they prefer to remain - Keliaya@anncaris - with the Dominion are one and the same. Which is quite interesting, as it's the same thing that kept them together tearing them apart, if that's really the case." Mia@crystyl:"Do we know what that reason is?" Keliaya@anncaris:"Their love of order, apparently. They admire the Dominion for the order they bring to the territories they control, and don't see unquestioning obedience to the Founders as a downside. It just - Keliaya@anncaris:- means a more orderly society with a clear power structure. It's this same love of order that kept them co-existing with the Loreadan. Even after the Dominion recognized them as a lifeform of - Keliaya@anncaris - their own, the Jaxorren remained in their roles, because it would upset the social order otherwise." Mia@crystyl:"We do not understand why that orderly coexistence had to change after the Dominion departed" Keliaya@anncaris:"I don't see any reason for it to, either. But the Jaxorren apparently really didn't want the Dominion to depart, and that led to issues. Issues that culminated in the negotiation bombing and the - Keliaya@anncaris:- civil war going on now." Mia@crystyl:"Then we suggest prioritizing the understanding of that reason. They had the order they desired before the Dominion, and should have had it afterwards as well. Understanding that difference is - Mia@crystyl:- understanding the Jaxorren" Keliaya@anncaris:"Well, the Dominion were also responsible for declaring them as a recognized species, which probably earned them a few points with the Jaxorren. And they've had other influences we might not know about - Keliaya@anncaris:- yet. Even the An don't have all the information, they didn't even know about the Jaxorren and their desire to stay with the Dominion until after they drove the Jem'Hadar out of the region." Mia@crystyl:"Which is just all the more reason why understanding their perspective is paramount here" Keliaya@anncaris:"We /do/ have a ship full of Jaxorren travelling with us. I could ask the captain to talk with them, or give you a chance to, if you think you might understand them better?" Mia@crystyl:"Being able to speak with them directly would certainly expedite our understanding" Keliaya@anncaris:"That might be a good idea. I'll see if we can get some of them here, or have you visit their ship, whichever Keelah deems to be safer." Mia@crystyl nods, "We will await further instructions then!" Keliaya@anncaris smiles, "Feel free to enjoy the shower while you wait, Mia!" Mia@crystyl smiles, "An excellent suggestion!" Keliaya@anncaris stands with a smirk, "Have fun Mia! I'll let you know when we're ready to talk to the Jaxorren." Mia@crystyl:"We look forward to it!" Keliaya@anncaris:"Let me know if you discover something else enjoyable too! And I might have a few suggestions too, if you don't discover them yourself..." Mia@crystyl smiles, "We know we can always count on you for expert tutelage Ms. Kelly!" Keliaya@anncaris smiles back and waves as she turns to head out --- Keliaya@anncaris | Later in the day, Kelly makes her way onto the bridge to relieve Keelah for the late shift again, arriving a little earlier than the shift begins Keelah@crystyl looks over, "Somebody is keen" Keliaya@anncaris makes her way to the bridge centre, "I was talking with Mia earlier and had something to ask. Thought I might arrive a bit earlier now instead of ringing you in the ready room, since it's not - Keliaya@anncaris - particularly urgent." Keelah@crystyl:"Ah, well that makes sense. What have you got?" Keliaya@anncaris:"Well I was asking her about trying to understand these Jaxorren. We don't have much information to work with right now, but we do have a ship full of them travelling with us." Keelah@crystyl:"I imagine she has strong opinions on the matter" Keliaya@anncaris nods, "She's quite interested in helping out and likes the idea of meeting and getting to know them better. And it'll be a good opportunity to get some insight if we do end up hosting - Keliaya@anncaris - negotiations." Keelah@crystyl:"Agreed. I had already had the same thought to be honest, she is pretty much our go-to for all things AI these days. Still, we are dealing with potential issues of repression and the like against - Keelah@crystyl:- artificials so I was debating whether to put her in a potentially awkward situation. From your discussion, do you believe she is capable of remaining objective?" Keliaya@anncaris nods, "I think so. These AI don't appear to be oppressed by their biological creators. It's more of a political divide right now, with one side just happening to be AIs. But I still think Mia'll - Keliaya@anncaris - be helpful in providing us with some insight into how the AI think." Keelah@crystyl smiles, "Very good then. I can't but always worry about her a little, but you are right of course; her insights will be invaluable" Keliaya@anncaris smiles back, "The question is, should we send her with a team onto their ship, or invite some of them over to the Valley Forge? Sending them over could be a risk since it's their ship, but - Keliaya@anncaris - bringing some of the Jaxorren here could threaten our safety here, given what we know about the negotiation bombing." Keelah@crystyl:"From what we can tell of their technology so far, are you able to put any controls in place to secure potential visits here?" Keliaya@anncaris considers for a moment, "I should be able to configure a damping field, one that won't interfere with their regular functions, but prevent high energy spikes in case they attempt to overload - Keliaya@anncaris - their cores. I'll need to see what the exact level to set it on would be, but it should still allow our security to use their phasers on low to medium settings if they try to attack us in - Keliaya@anncaris - a more conventional way." Keelah@crystyl:"Good, please do all you can then. We can reinforce escorted routes with forcefields and maintain transporter locks as well. That should be more than sufficient in all" Keliaya@anncaris nods, "I think it'll minimize any risk of having them on board. I'll get the preparations started." Keelah@crystyl:"Excellent. Once you are satisfied let me know and I will extend the invitation" Keliaya@anncaris:"I'll let you know when it's all set. Get some rest for the night, Captain. You got interrupted last night by the blockade runner showing up right after you left." Keliaya@anncaris:"Can't be unlucky enough to have something else call you back again two nights in a row, right?" Keelah@crystyl stands, "That would be statistically unlikely. Unless one prescribes to the superstition which would imply you just doomed us to that very eventuality" she smiles Keliaya@anncaris chuckles, "Fortunately I'm not a very superstitious person. You should be fine, Captain." Keelah@crystyl:"Very well, I will hold you to that" she chuckles, heading off Keliaya@anncaris steps over to the comm console, working with TQ to notify security of the plans before heading to the centre of the bridge again Keliaya@anncaris glances to Lennie as she moves towards the chair, "Junior doing fine with the blockade runner around after the way it joined us?" Keelah@crystyl | Lennie smiles, "S'far! He's still instinctively cautious around anythin' new. But he's startin' t'show trust - or rather more - faith, in th'Forge. So when we fly casual wit' someone, he gets - Keelah@crystyl:- more acceptin' even if he remains cautious still" Keliaya@anncaris smiles back, "I'm glad he's getting more comfortable. A little caution is probably good at the moment." Keelah@crystyl | Lennie: "Yeah, he's still just a baby after all!" Keliaya@anncaris steps over to Lennie, deciding to walk and talk about for a bit longer rather than sit down, "Anything of note in this region, or have you been studying Junior most of the last few weeks?" Keelah@crystyl | Lennie: "Nothin' o'consequence's come up from th'labs. They did ID a planet tha' th'Dominion had scoured though. Seems like it were a sign o'tha' plague passin' through th'region" Keliaya@anncaris nods, standing behind Lennie and staring at the starchart. She reaches a hand forward, zooming the map out and swiping it up slightly Keelah@crystyl | Lennie watches, curious what she's up to Keliaya@anncaris stares at the map a little more and tilts her head, "Strange. This looks oddly...familiar." Keelah@crystyl | Lennie looks closer, "Wha', th'star patterns?" Keliaya@anncaris nods, "Does it look familiar to you too?" Keelah@crystyl | Lennie shakes her head blankly, "I got nothin', sorry Kel" Keliaya@anncaris:"I'm sure it's just one of those psychological tricks our brains play on us. Maybe I've seen a collection of stars similar to this somewhere else," she smiles. "Keep up the good work with - Keliaya@anncaris:- monitoring and studying Junior!" Keliaya@anncaris turns to make her way to the captain's chair Keelah@crystyl | Lennie smiles and nods --- NPC@annpc#557 | The next day, Mia awaits in the transporter room to greet the Jaxorren... NPC@annpc#557 | Three synthetics materialize on the transporter pad. One of them appears to be the one Keelah spoke to over comms on the bridge, while the other two are distinctly different models NPC@annpc#557 | The second bears a resemblance to the first, but with a different colour scheme and a single, less aggressive looking light on its head NPC@annpc#557 FX | https://swtorfiles.jedipedia.net/npp/1200/16141177770322349382.png NPC@annpc#557 | Both of these stand at the height of a tall humanoid, but the third is wider and taller by far, a very distinct model from the first two NPC@annpc#557 FX | https://swtorfiles.jedipedia.net/npp/1200/16141079088939379584.png Mia@crystyl smiles brightly, "Welcome to Valley Forge! We are Mia, and it is our pleasure to meet you all!" NPC@annpc#557 | The three synthetics step off the transporter pad, and the one who spoke to Keelah responds, "This is Unit Xera 18496, accompanied by Unit Helex 44971," it gestures to the one about its size, - NPC@annpc#557 - "and Unit Cres 27879. We thank you for your welcome." Mia@crystyl:"Those are some very thorough naming conventions you all have! We do not know about the biologicals on your world, but here they may struggle getting your designation numbering correct. Would you - Mia@crystyl:- find it acceptable if we condense it to just the unique element of each of your names, so Xera, Helex and Cres for now?" NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "The biologicals have a tendency to condense our names in a similar fashion. As we are the only units of our models present, these forms of address will not cause confusion and increase - NPC@annpc#557 - efficiency. Mia@crystyl claps her hands together, "Perfect! Then please allow us to escort you to the meeting area, unless you have any questions you need answering before we proceed?" NPC@annpc#557 | Helex: "We are prepared to proceed." Helex appears to speak with a slightly higher pitch and less intimidating voice than Xera Mia@crystyl:"Then please, right this way!" she chirps, turning to lead the way out NPC@annpc#557 | The three Jaxorren follow, looking around the ship as they do NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "Your vessel follows significantly different design than any vessel we have been on." Mia@crystyl:"Truly? How so?" NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "I am not programmed to provide in-depth architectural and design analysis, but what I can observe of your internal layout suggests it is far more domestic than military." NPC@annpc#557 | Cres: "I concur. No transport I have been on board uses such internal design." Mia@crystyl:"That is an accurate assessment. This type of ship is used for long term exploration missions. Since biologicals have family units, such a vessel was deemed to require suitable accommodations for - Mia@crystyl:- those additional elements. Not all Starfleet vessels are like this, but many are to at least some degree" NPC@annpc#557 | Helex: "I see. From our understanding, the Commonwealth fields similar vessels as well. However, the ones we have encountered are Andarash, intended solely for military purposes." Mia@crystyl:"Yes, they field more extreme versions of this. The An motherships are many times larger than the Valley Forge as they are intended to sustain whole communities for several generations. It is rare - Mia@crystyl:- for a ship like ours to see even a single generation through" NPC@annpc#557 | Helex: "We have heard of these An expeditions, but never witnessed one ourselves." NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "Your captain stated that you originate from a distant part of the galaxy, yet your vessel is not meant for generational use?" Mia@crystyl:"It is actually through them that we first met the An! One such vessel found it's way to the corner of the galaxy we were operating in" NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "So that is how you encountered the An. What of this war with the Dominion?" Mia@crystyl:"Are you aware of a stable wormhole on the far side of Dominion territory from here?" NPC@annpc#557 | Cres: "We have heard of such a phenomenon from traders, but none of the freighters to have visited Loreadon have personally travelled through this wormhole." Mia@crystyl:"Well, that wormhole leads to Federation territory in the Alpha quadrant. After the wormhole was discovered, and exploration through it began from our side; the Dominion started to take notice and - Mia@crystyl:- eventually attempted an invasion through it. They were pushed back and the Founders almost wiped out as a result" NPC@annpc#557 | Helex: "We had heard of some trouble in the Dominion's core territories, but we were unaware your people nearly wiped out the Founders." NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "How did you manage such a feat?" Mia@crystyl:"It is no surprise that the Dominion kept this a closely guarded secret. As for the method, we believe that it was a form of biological attack on their genetics. But we are unaware of the specifics - Mia@crystyl:- since those are highly classified. What we do know is that once peace was secured, those responsible for the affliction then proceeded to cure them of it as well" NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "Is your civilization run primarily by biologicals, or is there synthetic input involved as well?" Mia@crystyl:"Whilst there are a number of synthetics like us who make our homes within the Federation, the vast majority are biologicals" NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "A surprisingly rational decision. Many biologicals would have given in to their emotions and left the Founders to die, which would secure victory for you as well, though you would first - NPC@annpc#557 - have to contend with the remaining Jem'Hadar who may continue to fight. Utilizing such a biological attack to pressure the Founders into a peace treaty brings an effective end to the conflict, - NPC@annpc#557 - though one less emotionally satisfying." Mia@crystyl:"Emotional satisfaction is subjective. There were many in the Federation and Starfleet who did not agree with the extreme nature of that move against the Dominion. Though they could not argue the - Mia@crystyl:- results, they certainly argued the method at the time by all accounts. Biologicals are curious creatures like that; Humans in particular possess an uncanny ability to be most logical when it suits- Mia@crystyl:- them, but to overrule that with emotion when desired, and then even overrule them both with morality. It makes them challenging foes, as many have discovered. But it also makes them powerful and - Mia@crystyl:- trusted friends, as many more have learned" NPC@annpc#557 | Cres: "Biological mentality has always been a source of confusion for this unit. Xera models are among the best suited to understanding them, second only to the Nexes." NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "And even I am not always capable of correctly interpreting and predicting biological behaviour." Mia@crystyl:"You should not feel bad about this; in our observations, even biologicals themselves struggle more often than not to balance these same equations" NPC@annpc#557 | Helex: "I have noticed that as well. A very chaotic form of existence." Mia@crystyl giggles, "We believe that may be the most astute summary of biological life to date! So what of your existence; we surmise that your different models - or series' if you prefer - are all designed - Mia@crystyl:- to serve specific functions. Could you elaborate?" NPC@annpc#557 | Helex: "Your assumption is correct. There are many models. We are among the most common ones. Helex models are the most numerous, as we are general service models capable of a variety of - NPC@annpc#557 - functions. Cres is a heavy duty model designed for moving heavy weights. They are most frequently employed in construction or cargo management. Xera is the latest military model, utilized for - NPC@annpc#557 - enforcement and defense." Mia@crystyl:"We understand, thank you for explaining. We would be most curious to learn about all of the different models you have! But we should not digress just now" NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "We may provide you with a comprehensive list of all models and functions. It will be beneficial information for negotiations and general interaction." Mia@crystyl:"We look forward to learning more about you all!" --- NPC@annpc#557 | Mia escorts the three synthetics to one of the VF's conference rooms Mia@crystyl:"Mon Capitaine, may we present Xera, Helex and Cres from the Jexorran vessel" Mia@crystyl | Keelah stands, "It is good to meet you all, I am Captain Se'Lai. Please, make yourselves comfortable. Ordinarily we would have prepared a selection of refreshments to welcome guests here, but we - Mia@crystyl:- could not be certain of any such requirements for yourselves. If there is anything we can offer you, please do not hesitate to ask" NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "Greetings again, Captain Se'Lai. We do not currently require anything, but we thank you for the offer." Mia@crystyl | Keelah: "Then please make yourselves comfortable as you see fit. We are not here to begin any form of negotiation, nor to start making promises. For now, we simply wish to better understand you - Mia@crystyl:- and your situation. To that end; Mia will remain and take point, as she is better suited to contextual comprehension here than I" Mia@crystyl turns from the replicator, mid bite of an apple, "Moi? Mon Capitaine! You honour us" NPC@annpc#557 | Xera and Helex meanwhile take seats, while Cres remains standing by the table NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "I understand. Knowing more about us will allow you to better facilitate negotiations." Mia@crystyl joins them, munching on her apple still, "That is correct! And the Captain is being quite logical in this decision. She is relying on our mutually synthetic nature to bridge any shortfalls in - Mia@crystyl:- comprehension through our different social structures. So please do not view this as her not taking the matter seriously, as this is in fact quite the opposite!" NPC@annpc#557 | Helex: "A very logical decision. So you are one of these synthetics who makes your home within the Federation?" Mia@crystyl grins, "Oui! We are a unique entity and what is classified as a digital lifeform. Since we are a networked AI of two, but exist as one" she indicates herself, and Miadrone who beeps cheerily NPC@annpc#557 | Cres: "Interesting. That is why you refer to yourself in the plural, then? I had thought it was a linguistic difference our translation matrices were struggling with." Mia@crystyl giggles, "Non, it is a quirk that formed after we first networked. We opted not to correct it as it serves to remind those around us that we are both the avatar and the droneshell, not just the - Mia@crystyl:- avatar they interact with" NPC@annpc#557 | Helex: "What brought you to join in a network with another AI?" Mia@crystyl:"Prior to that, we existed independent but limited existences. Our avatar was part of a holoprogram and so restricted to holodecks where that program could run. We were created with an advanced - Mia@crystyl:- matrix which empowered us with self awareness and memories of our creator - whose image we were created in. Our droneshell was also sentient; created as a personal assistant to a brilliant AI - Mia@crystyl:- programmer. However, with the physical presence of a droneshell, we were almost always perceived as a simple floating tool. A clever and capable one, but never a sentient on equal terms. So our - Mia@crystyl:- avatar longed for the freedom enjoyed by the drone, and the drone longed for the interpersonal interaction enjoyed by the avatar. Networking was a logical solution, and our biological friends who - Mia@crystyl:- brought us both together helped us obtain advanced technological upgrades to facilitate our shared vision of life" NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "A very unusual story. I have not met nor heard of another being like yourself." Mia@crystyl:"Neither have we! To our knowledge we are unique in this. But hopefully understanding this about us will help you to appreciate our role here. We would like very much to help your people find a - Mia@crystyl:- resolution to the situation on your world, so please; tell us about what happened there" NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "Until recently, we were members of the Dominion. Its forces brought peace to our system and the connections with other worlds of the Dominion brought us prosperity. Of late, the - NPC@annpc#557 - Dominion suffered a number of setbacks. We had agreed to aid them in maintaining peace and order in the region, increasing our ship and Xera unit production. However, the Lorrectin, our - NPC@annpc#557 - biological creators, whom the An know as the Loreadan, proposed a different approach." Mia@crystyl:"Interesting. You say the Dominion brought about peace, so we take it that means you were at war before?" NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "The usual chaos of interstellar conflicts and politics which pervades most biological civilizations. The Dominion brought the order and stability necessary for us to focus on our own - NPC@annpc#557 - social and technological development." Mia@crystyl:"We understand. Please continue; you said how the Lorrectin proposed a different approach" NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "Many of our biological creators believe that with the Dominion unable to protect us, we have no obligation to aid in protecting it. Instead, they wish us to put our new vessels and - NPC@annpc#557 - numbers to enforce order in our own name. However, we calculate that without the backing of a greater galactic entity such as the Dominion, the region will once again fall into petty wars and - NPC@annpc#557 - confrontations. When the Commonwealth began to move into the region, the Lorrectin proclaimed them a suitable galactic entity to side with. Many Jaxorren still find their system too chaotic - NPC@annpc#557 - and prefer to help bring stability to the Dominion so they may once again exert their influence here. Unfortunately, some of the Lorrectin contacted the An without our knowledge, falsely - NPC@annpc#557 - claiming that our world wished separation from the Dominion." Mia@crystyl:"Do the An not represent the most viable candidates to provide that same order you once found with the Dominion then?" NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "Not to the same extent. The Commonwealth provides protection in the form of the Andarash, but it is a loose alliance, one far more susceptible to the unpredictable whims of biological - NPC@annpc#557 - leaders. At the moment, neither the Commonwealth nor the Dominion are in the best condition to provide order. The Dominion has its setbacks, and the An are too focused on attempting to - NPC@annpc#557 - capitalize on these setbacks to expand rather than ensuring the well-being of the territories already under their protection. However, the An offer us the choice to join, become independent or - NPC@annpc#557 - remain with the Dominion. By our calculations, a Dominion returned to the height of its power is a far more secure and prosperous option for this region." NPC@annpc#557 | Helex: "And as a result, we wish to aid in restoring the Dominion to its height." Mia@crystyl:"And what do you calculate to be the probability of that Dominion restoration?" NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "We cannot make an accurate calculation due to the lack of greater contextual information. With what we know of the size and tenacity of the Dominion however, I estimate that the chances - NPC@annpc#557 - of the Dominion making a resurgence are significant. If the An were committed to destroying the Dominion, there is a chance that the Dominion would be unable to rebuilt. As we see with our own - NPC@annpc#557 - world, that is not the case and the An are not taking worlds from the Dominion by force, raising the Dominion's chances of resurgence significantly." Mia@crystyl:"Interesting, we appreciate your insights! So what can you tell us of the previous negotiations that the An facilitated when they first arrived here?" NPC@annpc#557 | Helex: "None of us were present for the negotiation. We know only that they occurred on the lead Andarash vessel, which currently oversees the blockade. Both sides dispatched representatives - NPC@annpc#557 - and appeared sincere in determining a way forward until the bombing occurred." Mia@crystyl:"Do you have any specifics on the nature of the proposed settlement there?" NPC@annpc#557 | Cres: "There is less detail than we would prefer. Unfortunately, we are not networked together, and the representative units had their own memory storage, all of which were destroyed in the - NPC@annpc#557 - bombing. We have only some information from our last contact with the representative units. The negotiations were discussing separation as an option, with the Jaxorren who wish to aid the - NPC@annpc#557 - Dominion departing to do so. The Lorrectin representatives demonstrated some concern as we would be removing the bulk of their defensive hardware. As the Commonwealth vowed to provide - NPC@annpc#557 - protection, they no longer needed our protection. The representatives were beginning to grow amenable to the idea, but still held reservations at that point." Mia@crystyl:"Understandable, but still a promising start point" NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "With this information, we concluded that the most likely culprit of the bombing was the An. Both Lorrectin and Jaxorren would be making compromises, but none so drastic that would - NPC@annpc#557 - prompt either side to sabotage the negotiations. The party with the most to lose in this situation is evidently the one hosting the negotiation, which also placed them in the best position to - NPC@annpc#557 - conduct sabotage. The more emotionally driven Lorrectin were unable to accept this conclusion and instead blamed us, causing the conflict to escalate into what it is today." Mia@crystyl:"What exactly would the An have to gain from destabilizing the dispute here? The longer it persists, the greater drain on their own resources it is. We are unable to reconcile this, please assist" NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "Assuming the negotiations continued down a logical course from what we last learned of it, the Jaxorren would depart to aid the Dominion with the majority of Loreadon's military - NPC@annpc#557 - strength, while the An would take the remaining population of the world as a Protectorate. The world would now be highly vulnerable to external threats, necessitating them to commit some - NPC@annpc#557 - forces in the area. Meanwhile, Jaxorren forces may face the Andarash elsewhere as part of the Dominion. By our calculations, the total number of forces committed and lost in this scenario - NPC@annpc#557 - will exceed their current commitment for the blockade. Sabotaging the negotiation was in their best interest." Mia@crystyl:"We are able to reconcile the facts now from the post-bombing perspective. But there is one element which still does not balance; if that were the An's position, then they would not have first - Mia@crystyl:- sought to aid the negotiations by hosting and arbitrating. How do you account for this?" NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "There are two possibilities. The first is that they did not anticipate such an outcome for the negotiations and expected to be able to convince the Jaxorren to join them. The second is - NPC@annpc#557 - that the sabotage was not an act ordered by the An leaders, but committed by a sub-sect of the An." Mia@crystyl:"That seems unlikely, but not impossible. The reality is that any of the three parties involved in those talks /could/ have had elements within who had reason to destabilize the negotiations. Do - Mia@crystyl:- your people have any established relationship with other species in the region?" NPC@annpc#557 | Helex: "Of course. Prior to the Dominion's arrival, there were relationships both friendly and antagonistic between Loreadon and all the surrounding minor powers. After the Dominion brought - NPC@annpc#557 - order to the region, we continue to trade frequently with the nearby civilizations, including former enemies." Mia@crystyl:"Could none of them stand to have profited from destabilizing the situation here?" NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "Some of them would certainly possess the motive. If the bombing had happened on the surface of Loreadon, these civilizations would be the prime suspects. However, it occurred on an - NPC@annpc#557 - Andarash cruiser. Even if they had the means to infiltrate the vessel and set off the bomb before being apprehended, the An would have no doubt uncovered some evidence of their infiltration. - NPC@annpc#557 - The most likely suspects are those present at the meeting or someone who is expected to be on board the ship." Mia@crystyl | Keelah: "Forgive my interjection, and don't take this the wrong way; but how secure are your kind from external tampering? Is it feasible that one of these third parties might have gotten to the - Mia@crystyl:- Jexorran delegation whilst planetside and tampered with them?" NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "We will not take offense, Captain. It is an interesting suggestion. We have security protocols to prevent unauthorized tampering and access, but it is not inconceivable for one of our - NPC@annpc#557 - representatives to have been compromised. It would take someone of significant skill, but the probability is higher than a saboteur personally infiltrating the An vessel." Mia@crystyl nods, "And by our very nature; artificial lifeforms are typically more at risk of this kind of thing than biologicals are. It is not impossible to alter a biological in this manner, but it is far - Mia@crystyl:- more problematic. If an outsider were to attempt such a thing, the artificials would be the most likely target" Mia@crystyl | Keelah: "It could be worth revisiting the details of any third parties with a vested interest and the capability to carry such an attack out" she looks to the bots, "Are there any third parties - Mia@crystyl:- currently active on your world, or is it entirely locked down by the blockade?" NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "I concur. By compromising one of us and causing us to self-destruct, it would also cover up the evidence of the crime, as the unit will be completely destroyed." The bot turns to Keelah - NPC@annpc#557 - "Loreadon is currently locked down, but the blockade was created after the civil war erupted, which only happened as a result of the bombing. Prior to that, there were several trade vessels - NPC@annpc#557 - from neighbouring civilizations present which had the potential of carrying the saboteur." Mia@crystyl:"How long ago did this happen?" NPC@annpc#557 | Helex: "One hundred and sixty six Loreadon revolutions ago, or one hundred and forty nine Dominion standard days." Mia@crystyl:"So it is entirely possible that - if a third party was involved - then those responsible could indeed still be present" NPC@annpc#557 | Helex: "Affirmative. The system was locked down and the traders present at the time were unable to depart." Mia@crystyl:"Any information you have on these third parties would be greatly appreciated. It is not our intention to divert blame, but we must be vigilant in exploring all possible avenues" NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "We will provide you with all information on the traders and their civilizations of origin. Uncovering the truth behind the bombing may help alleviate tensions and improve the odds of - NPC@annpc#557 - successful negotiation. It would be in our best interests to allow you to investigate the matter." Mia@crystyl smiles, "Thank you very much! We look forward to working with you on this" NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "Thank you for your willingness to assist. You have nothing to gain by attempting to resolve our internal affair, yet you are still willing to assist." Mia@crystyl smiles, "You are wrong. We stand to gain new friends! And that is what we seek above all out here" Mia@crystyl | Keelah eyerolls, "Not exactly 'new life and new civilizations', but the sentiment is there" she smiles --- NPC@annpc#557 FX | Some time later, Keelah takes her seat on the bridge as the VF begins to approach the Loreadon system... NPC@annpc#557 | TQ: "Captain, our An escort are hailing us." Keelah@crystyl:"On screen" NPC@annpc#557 | Commander Kesa appears on the viewscreen, "Captain Se'Lai. We are approaching Loreadon now. I've informed the blockade commander of the situation, and he's notifying the Jaxorren that we're - NPC@annpc#557 - returning their own to the planet." Keelah@crystyl:"Thank you for the update" NPC@annpc#557 | Kesa: "How do you plan to approach the situation from here?" Keelah@crystyl:"I would like to speak to the Commander of the An overseer vessel where the previous negotiations were held. We are also gathering information on all the non-indigenous interested parties present on- Keelah@crystyl:- the world. While that is going on, I must establish a dialogue with the Loreadon" NPC@annpc#557 | Kesa: "I'll patch you to Commander Nahlan. He can put you in touch with the Loreadon as well. One moment," She nods off-screen and the comm flickers for a moment before a male Masan appears NPC@annpc#557 | Masan: "This is Commander Nahlan of the Kaneter. You must be the one Commander Kesa told me about. Captain...Se'Lai, was it?" Keelah@crystyl:"That is correct. Thank you for speaking with me, I will try not to take too much of your time" NPC@annpc#557 | Nahlan: "Worry not, I'm not engaged in any battle planning here, after all. Our only duty is to maintain the blockade." Keelah@crystyl:"Of course. I was hoping you could share your own insights on the previously failed arbitration; our understanding is that your vessel hosted the event" NPC@annpc#557 | Nahlan: "There was a detonation in the meeting room where the negotiation was being held. We conducted a thorough investigation, but the visual recordings of the area were all damaged. We have - NPC@annpc#557 - internal sensor scans which registered an energy signature consistent with a Jaxorren power core which started the explosion. Two other Jaxorren cores also detonated as part of the chain - NPC@annpc#557 - reaction, so it's impossible to determine whether the initial bomb came from inside one of the synthetics or was an external bomb using Loreadon technology which closely mimics their cores' - NPC@annpc#557 - signature." Keelah@crystyl:"I assume there were no other anomalous readings either inside or outside the ship in the hours leading up to this?" NPC@annpc#557 | Nahlan: "Nothing out of the ordinary. The only conclusion we can reach is that either one of the synthetics self-destructed, or someone who was already on the ship planted the bomb, - NPC@annpc#557 - probably as they entered for the meeting." Keelah@crystyl:"Did you host any visitors around that time besides the two delegations?" NPC@annpc#557 | Nahlan shakes his head, "No, there was no one on board save my crew and the two delegations." Keelah@crystyl:"I see, thank you for the clarifications. We are investigating all potential avenues into the matter as part of our efforts here. Speaking of which, I understand you are able to put us in contact - Keelah@crystyl:- with representatives from the surface?" NPC@annpc#557 | Nahlan nods, "Do you wish to contact the Loreadans or Jaxorren first?" Keelah@crystyl:"I have yet to meet the Loreadans, so I will start with them. By the time the runners get back I am sure news of our intention to stage fresh talks will reach the required leaders" NPC@annpc#557 | Nahlan: "Excellent thinking. I shall patch you to the Loreadan leadership." Keelah@crystyl bows her head, "Thank you" NPC@annpc#557 | A moment later, an alien appears on the viewscreen. It has all the features of a Children species, but is distinguishable by large, monkey-like ears. The species bears some resemblance to - NPC@annpc#557 - Ferengi, though the ears are differently shaped and they lack the distinctive head lobes, possessing hair instead Keelah@crystyl:"Hello, I am Captain Se'Lai of the starship Valley Forge" NPC@annpc#557 | Loreadan: "I am Foreign Minister Callagen of the Loreadon Republic. You are...allies of the An?" Keelah@crystyl:"We have no official ties, but we are working on a mutually beneficial mission right now. Similarly; our Federation has a friendly accord with the Dominion. We have been made aware of the situation - Keelah@crystyl:-here and would like to offer our assistance in finding a resolution" NPC@annpc#557 | Callagen: "Ah! I see! The An have brought you in provide neutral arbitration to settle this conflict. Very clever. You have no interest or bias towards either side, unlike the An themselves." Keelah@crystyl:"Exactly, yes. We became involved after a Jexorran vessel tried to breach the blockade and we were obliged to assist in stopping them. This led to a dialogue where they told us their views on the - Keelah@crystyl:- situation. Before we proceed to any formal arrangements I would like very much to have that same discussion with you" NPC@annpc#557 | Callagen: "Do you wish us to send a delegation ahead of schedule to provide you with our perspective, or shall I explain things to you over communications?" Keelah@crystyl:"I would prefer to do this face to face, since we did our discussion with the Jexorran in that manner. If you prefer not to board a strange vessel, I am content to send a delegation to the surface" NPC@annpc#557 | Callagen: "It is not exactly safe on the surface here right now. We will come to you. Boarding a strange vessel is no more perilous than hiding out in old bunkers on the surface. You /are/ - NPC@annpc#557 - aware of what happened during the last attempt at negotiation, yes?" Keelah@crystyl nods, "We are aware, and completely understand your position. Please assemble your delegation and contact us when you are ready" NPC@annpc#557 | Callagan: "We shall do so. In the meantime, I would suggest you prepare security measures. In case someone makes a second attempt at sabotage." Keelah@crystyl:"We are already working on a number of measures, thank you for the concern" --- Alien NPC@annpc#557 | In the VF transporter pad, Foreign Minister Callagen transports on board with three other members of his species. All of them bear the same general appearance, with the large ears and almost - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - Ferengi-looking features and a similar height as well. Keelah notes that unlike the Ferengi, none of them are wearing shoes, revealing ape-like feet suited to climbing trees Keelah@crystyl:"Welcome to the Valley Forge, and thank you for taking the time to come and visit us" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The four Lorrectin step off the transporter pad and Minister Callagen responds, "Thank you for having us on board. I'm Foreign Minister Callagen, as you already know. This is my aide, Vizar, - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - and with me is Captain Ferrica, representing our military, and Minister Dalla of Jaxorren Affairs." Keelah@crystyl:"It is a pleasure to meet you all. If you please, we have a small reception room set out where we can talk comfortably" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Callagen nods his head, "Lead the way, Captain." Keelah@crystyl leads the way Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The four little aliens follow behind Keelah, looking around the ship as they do Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ferrica: "So, what kind of ship is this, exactly?" Keelah@crystyl:"We regard it as an exploration cruiser. Though it was originally designed many, many years ago to serve as a fleet command class. During the early years of service, there was no real demand and by - Keelah@crystyl:- the time there was a requirement, it was superseded by a more modern design. So these - Sentinel Class starships - were repurposed as exploration cruisers, since their size and overall capability - Keelah@crystyl:- leant well to that life" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ferrica: "That would explain why your ship looks like a military vessel from our scans. But in here, it doesn't really look like one." Keelah@crystyl smiles a little, "It is a difficult balance to maintain, since working alone so far from home comes with its dangers as I'm sure you can appreciate. So we are sadly forced to maintain a strong - Keelah@crystyl:- defensive capability. But we live here with our families, and have done so for many years now. So this also has to be a nurturing home for our children" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ferrica nods, "Yes, this can be a dangerous region. The war, the larger, interstellar one at least, might've moved on from here, but it's still far from stable." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Dalla: "You live with your families? So you've been exploring for a while, then?" Keelah@crystyl:"Yes, our current mission has lasted for several years now" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Callagen: "Several years? You must be quite far from home." Keelah@crystyl:"Yes, very much so. Though we are hoping to be nearing the end of this particular unexpected leg of our journey" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Dalla: "Unexpected?" Keelah@crystyl nods, "Yes, an accident brought us to this region from the outer rim of what we call the Alpha Quadrant. There is a wormhole on the other side of Dominion territory which we are now trying to reach- Keelah@crystyl:- in order to return" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Callagen: "So that's why you're travelling through here. And you happened upon our world by chance, then? Keelah@crystyl:"In essence" she nods, "We knew of the An already having met a similar expedition of theirs previously. We were accompanying them to assist with some unrelated matters when the blockade runner was - Keelah@crystyl:- detected, and now here we are" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ferrica: "Ah yes, the Jaxorren trying to break free of the blockade. You'd think if anything, we would be the ones trying to break out, considering they control most of the cities now. But I - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - guess they think they already won and want to go about contacting the Dominion." Keelah@crystyl:"I appreciate that things on your homeworld are... delicate, to say the least. I am eager to hear all about it from your perspective now" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Callagen: "You say your people are friendly with both the Dominion and the An?" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The group steps into the meeting room as they speak Keelah@crystyl:"It is a rather complex situation overall" she steps inside, "But first please, make yourselves at home and help yourselves to some refreshments. If there is nothing here to suit your palettes, do let- Keelah@crystyl:- me know and I am sure we can arrange something to your liking" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Callagen: "Quite a reception you've prepared for us, Captain. Thank you." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The four take seats around the table Keelah@crystyl:"We do what we can to accommodate our guests here. It is important to us that you feel welcome aboard this ship" she smiles, taking a seat and a drink Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The Lorrectin take some food and drink, trying them for a moment before Dalla speaks, "Let's explain things from the beginning. You've already met the Jaxorren and are familiar with them to an - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - extent, yes?" Keelah@crystyl:"Yes, after we apprehended the blockade runner and heard an opening plea from them for help in resolving the situation here, we brought a small contingent on board to explain their perspective on the - Keelah@crystyl:- current situation and the events leading up to it. I have also already consulted with the commander of the An blockade who first put us in contact with you" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Dalla: "You are aware of their history, then?” Keelah@crystyl:"I am aware of how they chose to portray it to us. That is why I would like hear your perspective on things; so that I can keep a balanced view of the situation and maintain a sympathetic - Keelah@crystyl:- understanding of the variances between your respective views" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Dalla nods, "Well, we created the Jaxorren many generations ago. The original philosophy behind them was to create machines like us, but ones that excel at elements we don't. Eventually, - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - various models were made to satisfy other roles in our society that we didn't want to perform, like rigorous calculation work or front-line personal combat." Keelah@crystyl:"Yes, we met some of the different model variants" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Dalla: "They became an ever more prominent part of life, being found in every part of society. They were our entertainers, our soldiers, caretakers for our children, advisors for our leaders. - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - Some of us had already begun to consider them more than machines, but friends and even family, though they weren't officially recognized as another form of life yet. But there were also those - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - whom we are not proud of. Zealots of old religions who refused to believe synthetic beings could have souls and thus could not possibly be alive. People who simply saw them as technology and - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - abused the early Jaxorren. They do not represent the majority of our people, but they certainly existed. It was...new territory for us then." Keelah@crystyl:"You are not the first people to face this dilemma, it is completely understandable to have the different views" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Dalla: "Yes, we've heard through the Dominion that such situations have led to disaster and tragedy. For us at the time, it was merely a minor civil matter. We were developing starships along - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - with the Jaxorren and found ourselves dealing with interstellar politics and conflicts which took far more of our time and attention. That was likely a factor in why the Jaxorren situation - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - never escalated much. Both us and the Jaxorren were focused on protecting Loreadon and our shared interests from the other civilizations out there." Keelah@crystyl:"A commendable approach that few have been able to even attempt" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Callagen: "That's about when we first started hearing about the Dominion. Word came to us through other civilizations initially, of an unstoppable empire with advanced technology. They were - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - nothing but a rumour, until they conquered several of our neighbours.” Keelah@crystyl:"A familiar tale" she nods, listening intently Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Callagen: "We had recalled all our ships to mount a defense, but our Jaxorren advisors calculated a minimal chance of success. After sending spies to the conquered territories in the guise of - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - merchants oblivious to the Dominion, we saw how the Dominion punished those who defied them and rewarded those who capitulated. So we did what we believed best for our people, and we powered - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - down our weapons and planetary defenses when the Dominion finally arrived." Keelah@crystyl:"A logical choice" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Dalla: "It was under the Dominion that the Jaxorren were finally recognized as a form of life and given equal rights to us. And both our peoples became subjects of the Dominion." Keelah@crystyl:"The Jaxorren referred to this as the Dominion bringing peace. Was there any conflict with them prior to the Dominion's arrival?" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Callagen: "Not with the Jaxorren, no. There was conflict with some neighbouring civilizations, which all came to an end after the Dominion took the entire region. Our time under the Dominion - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - /has/ been quiet and peaceful. But that's because very little has happened until now. We made some minor advances but our technology today is still more or less the same as it was centuries - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - ago. Gone are the days when we were building warp drives several times the speed of its predecessor, when we shrunk down Jaxorren cores from taking up the majority of the body to just a small - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - device in their chest like a biological heart. The innovations we're making now are...slightly more efficient warp drives, or new Jaxorren models with a single additional tool." Keelah@crystyl:"Do the Jaxorren still rely on your people for advancement, upgrades and repairs? Or are they self sufficient in that regard now?" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Dalla: "They are self-sufficient, but before recent events, we still helped one another in advancement. Strictly speaking, we don't need each other. But we've been working with each other for - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - a long time." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Callagen: "Do your people mate for life, Captain?" Keelah@crystyl:"Typically, yes. Though as with any social system, there are always exceptions" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Callagen nods, "Our peoples are like a pair of perfectly capable individuals who have formed a lifelong bond. Yes, we could separate and live our own lives. But it would be difficult, not - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - because we lack any means to do so, because we have to adjust to life without each other." Keelah@crystyl smiles, "I understand. So this brings us to the Dominion's demise and the previous attempt to settle differences here" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Dalla: "Many of the Jaxorren wish to remain Dominion members and help them recover from their current issues. They've always admired the rigid and sometimes brutal order of the Dominion, and - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - many of them also credit the Dominion for giving them full rights as living beings. I believe it would have happened eventually on Loreadon, but there's little use in speculating what may have - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - been." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ferrica: "Meanwhile, many of us Lorrectin want to be free of the Dominion. Hence the civil war." Keelah@crystyl:"What can you tell me of the previous talks?" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ferrica: "Someone set off a bomb and killed everyone." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Callagen: "I...think the Captain's more interested in the details of what was being discussed /before/ the bombing." Keelah@crystyl smiles a little, "Any insights on the bombing are of course welcome too, but yet I am mostly interested in the subject of the discussion. It is my understanding that those talks were coming close - Keelah@crystyl:- to a reconciliation. But with the losses suffered by all that day, no knowledge remains of those details" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Dalla: "My predecessor, the previous Minister of Jaxorren Affairs, filled me in on some of the discussion before he was killed in the explosion. I don't have any recordings to offer you I'm - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - afraid, but I do know the direction the talks were going in and the topics being discussed. We were getting close to an agreement where the Jaxorren would leave to support the Dominion closer - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - to their core territory, while we stayed here on Loreadon, which would become a Commonwealth Protectorate." Keelah@crystyl:"As I thought. Do you know anything of people's movements in the hours leading up to the bombing?" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Dalla shakes her head, "You'll have to ask the An about that. It happened on their ship. The last time I communicated with my predecessor was after one of the negotiation sessions, when he was - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - in his guest room aboard the An ship." Keelah@crystyl:"I appreciate this is a difficult question, but if there is anything about that conversation that you can recall. Even insignificant details can gain significance with the right context" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Dalla: "He said they were pushing for the Jaxorren to leave with as little military equipment as possible, while the Jaxorren were trying to negotiate for as much as they could have, since - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - they needed it to support the Dominion. The An were slightly biased towards our side because they have an interest in not letting the Dominion get more reinforcements, but the Jaxorren have - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - the stronger negotiating position due to the situation on the surface, so we were about to compromise." Keelah@crystyl:"One side about to make concessions, and another about to get more or less what they wanted. Neither comes across as particularly inclined to sabotaging the talks, do they" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vizar, Callagen's aide, speaks up for the first time, "Hm. Our leading theory is that the Jaxorren committed the bombing, as they were in the best position to do so with their highly compressed - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - energy cores. But you're right, it seems odd for them to sabotage the meeting when they were on the cusp of getting what they wanted." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ferrica: "Who else could it be? The An? That's what the Jaxorren claim, but bombing their own ship? They lost people in the explosion too." Keelah@crystyl:"We understand that a number of off-worlders were here at the time, and have remained so since the blockade too. The Jaxorren have already confirmed that it is at least feasible for someone to have - Keelah@crystyl:- tampered with one of their dignitaries. We are also investigating this avenue and looking into any third parties with a vested interest in the future of your peoples" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Callagen: "It's...possible, yes. There were a few traders present from civilizations who had conflicts with us prior to the Dominion's arrival." --- Alien NPC@annpc#557 | After finishing the meeting with the Lorrectin, Keelah steps out of the conference room. Now the next step is to bring the Jaxorren delegation onboard and begin the talks... Keelah@crystyl heads off to do the rounds of her senior staff to check on preparations Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Keelah is just about to reach Kelly's office when her combadge chimes Keelah@crystyl stops and taps, "Se'Lai" Alien NPC@annpc#557 <C - Eva> "Captain, the Jaxorren contacted us and wished to speak with you. It wasn't urgent so I didn't want to disrupt your meeting." Keelah@crystyl:"Alright, thank you Eva. I'll take in my quarters" she turns and starts heading that way Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Before long, Keelah reaches her quarters Keelah@crystyl makes herself comfortable at her desk and opens the channel Alien NPC@annpc#557 | A Xera-model Jaxorren appears on her console. Keelah can't say whether it's the same one she talked to before though, or simply another who looks identical Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "Captain Se'Lai of the Valley Forge." Keelah@crystyl:"Hello, Xera was it? Apologies if I'm mistaken, but I am still learning the nuances between your different models" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "Correct. This is Unit Xera 20129. As advised by Xera 18496, whom you spoke to before, we have been investigating the possibility that one of our representatives had been compromised." Keelah@crystyl:"I see. Can I take this to mean that you have some development on that investigation to discuss?" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "Affirmative. We pursued two primary lines of investigation. Firstly were the foreign traders present on Loreadon between the An's initial arrival and the bombing. We exhausted that - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - lead rapidly, as our extensive surveillance system accounted for every step of our representatives' movements prior to boarding the An vessel. There was no registered contact with any - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - foreigners. As the chances of someone successfully infiltrating the An vessel is negligible, we may safely rule out interference from another civilization." Keelah@crystyl:"That is certainly a step in the right direction. Before I enquire about the second line of investigation, are you content to continue the discussion on this channel or is this a topic best - Keelah@crystyl:- discussed face to face?" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "Your reasoning is impressive, Captain. I was about to propose such a discussion." Keelah@crystyl:"Very well. Do you want to transport to the Valley Forge, or would it be better if we come to you?" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "It would be advisable for you to send a team to the surface. We have reason to believe that the threat still remains, which means we cannot ensure the integrity of our units should we - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - board your vessel at this time." Keelah@crystyl:"I understand. Please relay coordinates to my comms officer and we will join you shortly" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "I shall do so immediately. Xera 20129 out." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The comm ends Keelah@crystyl opens a channel to Kelly Alien NPC@annpc#557 <C - Kelly> "Kelly here." Keelah@crystyl:"Kelly, there has been a development on the investigation. The Jaxorren have a lead and wish for us to join them on the surface to discuss. How are we looking with safety measures?" Alien NPC@annpc#557 <C - Kelly> "Our safety measures are all in place and ready to go, but we'll need to make additional damping devices if you want some on the surface." Keelah@crystyl:"How long do you need?" Alien NPC@annpc#557 <C - Kelly> "Now that we know the settings, no more than an hour to assemble the extra devices." Keelah@crystyl:"Then please make it a top priority. I'll go down with a small team" Alien NPC@annpc#557 <C - Kelly> "Personally, Captain? There's a civil war going on down there." Keelah@crystyl:"And the Jaxorren who a short while ago we suggested - to their faces - that their personal security was vulnerable to compromise, saw fit to reach out to me with troubling news as a result. So much- Keelah@crystyl:- so that they dare not send anyone on board for fear of a repeat incident. It would be unfair to them to not repay that outreach by giving it my personal attention" Alien NPC@annpc#557 <C - Kelly> "I understand, Captain. You should bring Mia with you for the technical expertise, and I recommend someone skilled at personal combat just in case. Rianni or Silvestrie would be - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - my choices." Keelah@crystyl:"Agreed. Mia and Rianni will join me, Silvestrie is best placed here at the moment while we have dignitaries on board with such a delicate situation at hand" Alien NPC@annpc#557 <C - Kelly> "Good call. We'll watch over the Lorrectin dignitaries while you're gone. Be careful down there, Keelah." Keelah@crystyl:"That is my plan Kelly, thank you" --- NPC@annpc#557 | With damping devices, Keelah transports down to Loreadon with Mia and Rianni. The three materialize on a transporter pad, with a Xera combat unit awaiting them just off the pad NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "Welcome to Loreadon. I am Xera 20129, the unit you communicated with earlier.” Keelah@crystyl steps down, "I apologize for the delay, but we had to ensure sufficient measures were in place, given the implications of your message" NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "I understand the precautions. Please follow me, Captain." NPC@annpc#557 | The synthetic promptly turns to lead the way NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "May I inquire as to the nature of your companions? Are they simply additional security?" Keelah@crystyl:"Mia here is my personal assistant, and as a fellow synthetic she has been working with us to maintain a proper understanding in our dialogue with your people. LT Tierno here is my chief tactical - Keelah@crystyl:- officer" NPC@annpc#557 | Xera turns its head, the red lights settling on Mia, though it doesn't break pace, "This is the synthetic that Xera 18496 communicated with on board your vessel?" Keelah@crystyl | Mia smiles, "That we are!" NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "We are pleased to have you here, then." NPC@annpc#557 | As they walk through the hall, they notice that everyone they pass around them seem to be other Jaxorren models, with no biologicals in sight Keelah@crystyl | Mia: "And we were hoping for the opportunity to come and visit here!" NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "You have not chosen an ideal time to visit in the midst of the civil war. Fortunately, the bounds of the city are fairly safe for the moment." Keelah@crystyl:"Yet I expect not as safe as you initially believed, judging from our previous conversation" NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "Affirmative. I will provide you further details once we reach the others." NPC@annpc#557 | As they continue on, they realize they are likely in some sort of government building. There are paintings and portraits all over the walls, and quite a number of decorative elements, even - NPC@annpc#557 - fish tanks. The structure does not seem to fit the generally more practical and functional approach of the Jaxorren and were most likely designed by their Lorrectin creators Keelah@crystyl | Mia admires the artistry more, "Are these all your peoples creations? They are quite beautiful!" NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "A significant amount of the construction was performed by Jaxorren models. However, the majority of the aesthetic design is the work of Lorrectin designers." Keelah@crystyl | Rianni "Do the Jaxorren have a sense of aesthetic pleasure?" NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "Most models, including the Xeras, do not. There are a few exceptions, such as the Nexes, Teres, Vels and their predecessor lines." Keelah@crystyl:"Interesting. That would suggest that this plays a part in their designed function then" NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "That is correct. These models all operate within the field of entertainment." Keelah@crystyl | Rianni looks to Xera confused for a moment, "But... if all the other Jaxorren don't share this interest, what purpose does that entertainment field serve?" NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "To entertain the Lorrectin, of course. Our societies function as one. Even with the civil war, many Lorrectin civilians who wish no part in the conflict still live among our people - NPC@annpc#557 - within the cities." The Jaxorren pauses at a window facing out of the building with a view of the cityscape beyond NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "This is Jaccan City. It was our capital." Keelah@crystyl:"So the divide is more political than cultural" Keelah@crystyl | Mia peers out, "oooh" NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "That is correct, Captain. We Jaxorren share the same culture as our creators. Though we have differing outlooks, our history is one, and for all our existence until recently, our - NPC@annpc#557 - society as well. That is why I specify Jaccan City /was/ our capital, rather than presently being our capital. This was the capital of the Loreadon Republic, a government comprising of - NPC@annpc#557 - Lorrectin and Jaxorren. While the Jaxorren currently hold the city, the Lorrectin elements of government have evacuated, and we can no longer accurately call this the Loreadon capital." Keelah@crystyl:"That is unfortunate" NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "It is my hope that you will be able to rectify the situation. Let us continue." NPC@annpc#557 | Xera leads the group further through the halls and into a lift. The lift seems strange, a lone entrance at the end of a hallway which otherwise seems to host some small offices. It is not - NPC@annpc#557 - where a lift would normally be found in a building, which is at a central location, commonly with several at a time. The placement would be more fitting for starship lifts than skyscraper ones Keelah@crystyl looks around, "Where are we heading?" NPC@annpc#557 | Xera: "Somewhere secure." NPC@annpc#557 | As the lift begins to descend, Rianni notes a sign which her translator deciphers as identifying this to be a service lift NPC@annpc#557 | Mia's sensors soon begin to register them going underground, before interference kicks in and she is unable to scan beyond the walls of the lift... Keelah@crystyl | Rianni remains closely guarded while Keelah doesn't appear to react NPC@annpc#557 | The door opens to a very different looking hallway from the building above. Xera continues leading the way, and Mia's sensors have greater range now, though they are still unable to penetrate - NPC@annpc#557 - the walls and ceilings of what seems to be some kind of bunker Keelah@crystyl | Mia: "This is an extensive underground facility" Keelah@crystyl:"Very deep underground I would say too" NPC@annpc#557 | Xera doesn't comment, continuing to lead. He turns down a different hallway, and they soon reach its end. The synthetic raises his arm, inserting an extension from his hand into a door panel NPC@annpc#557 | The door slides open...