ST:TTV404 | "The Five Families Pt. II"
Updated: Mar 18
Stardate 96472.6
After inadvertently being drawn into the complex political landscape of the Decen Families, the Valley Forge must attempt to form peaceful relations with the various warring factions in order to secure safe passage through their space.
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---CONFERENCE--- Keelah gathers in the main conference room with department heads and a selection of officers from around the ship to assign tasks in preparation of the upcoming conference (Ooc: sign characters up in attendance here to receive task/s which will hopefully setup additional discord rp and/or forum reports. Log from last event will post later today for more context) AnnCariseLast Monday at 23:23 Kelly sits around the table, engaged in a pre-conference discussion with Vrolmacht. The two look over a PADD displaying sensor data on the alien ships they encountered, occasionally motioning to highlight a specific detail on the device. EunhaLast Monday at 23:40 Sana, Yoona, Alla and Hyunbin (new alt) all sit around the table as well. Yoona seemingly quiet not yet used to anything other than counselling, Alla catches up on medical reports with Kazra , Hyunbin sits close to Kelly as he is a fellow engineer. And Sana is being Sana EcosseLast Monday at 23:46 Kiera is leaning against the back of a chair with her PADD in hand while she looks over details on it with the occasional comment from Kassandra or the signs that she is talking to Kass in her head. While both LTJG Yaluls are in attendance as well the two of them talking quietly to each other while they wait for the conference to start. EunhaLast Monday at 23:49 Yoona and Hyunbin exchange glances every now and then but Hyunbin is mainly focused on trying to listen with Kelly and Vrolmacht. AnnCariseLast Tuesday at 01:24 Kelly: "They probably don't use the ship class system we do, but by our standards I wouldn't say they're different classes." Vrolmacht: "The armaments are completely different. This one would take that one down in a minute." Kelly: "But look here, all the disruptor banks down the side are just replaced with sensors on this one. It's all based on the same core structure. You wouldn't call a Nebula with a torpedo module a different class from a Nebula with a sensor module." Vrolmacht: "True. Even a ship like the Valley Forge is still a Sentinel, despite our extensive refits altering our performance significantly." Kelly nods: "Because they're still just variations on the same central design." Vrolmacht: "The question is then, which came first? The warship or the scout ship?" Kelly: "We've no way to tell for certain, and if I had to guess, I'd have to figure out who designed it first." Vrolmacht: "My bet is on the Valeni. We know what the Drascas are like. They're the type to steal the design and use it for themselves." Kelly: "We shouldn't judge them by what little we've seen so far. The Valeni only had the warship variant of these cruisers, while the Drascas have both versions." Vrolmacht: "That does not necessarily mean they designed both. They could have altered an existing design to suit their purposes. Besides, the Valeni fleet was in the offensive position. Carrying solely warships would fit their purpose." CrystylLast Tuesday at 06:18 Lennie and T'Quila also sit jist down from Sana. Silvestrie is also at the table while Lar stands awkwardly in the corner Keelah looks around the room, "Alright everyone. I know you all have lots to do so we will keep this brief". She gives a brief pause for the room to settle. "I will assume by now that you are all up to speed on recent events following our first contact with the Decen, and are aware of the impending conference we are going to host. What we are here for now is ensure shipwide preparedness for this. To that end, does anyone have any questions or concerns before we begin?" She asks, glancing about the room EcosseLast Tuesday at 12:30 Kiera shakes her head slightly while she moves round to sit in her seat ???_????Last Tuesday at 14:26 As the captain is asking this in her opening Rumiho and Tsurugi are sneaking in through the door behind her. Well Rumiho is trying to be discreet like she is worried about being late. Tsurugi seems kinda ambivalent about it, finding a spot near the other engineering people. Perhaps his obviousness is why no one is sure when Rumiho first appeared in her seat.. AnnCariseLast Tuesday at 17:14 Kelly double-takes at the sudden Rumiho before looking back to Keelah, "Our tech is many decades ahead of theirs, and some of them might get the idea to try and steal our equipment or data to get an upper hand over their rivals. Apart from the usual restricted areas for foreign visitors, should we take extra precautions?" CrystylLast Tuesday at 17:50 Keelah nods, either not noticing or paying no credence to the late arrivals. Her focus holds on Kelly initially, looking around the table as she speaks, "That is exactly why we are here now. Our information on this species is terribly limited still, and what little we do know suggests that they will be problematic with each other as a minimum, if not - as you say - seeking to take advantage of the situation for themselves. We already know the Draca's are more than content to utilize subterfuge as it seems to be their forte" She continues following a brief pause, "This is why you are all here; we only have a few days before we host the conference and a lot to do in preparation." Turning to Silvestrie, "William will work closely with each of you with areas of responsibility to ensure satisfactory security measures are in place. Vrolmacht, Yoona, Kelly, Lendaria, Kazra; I trust you all to accommodate William in advising of any special requirements or concerns you may have. Everyone good on that so far?" she asks looking around the gathered officers before continuing to specific assignments EunhaLast Tuesday at 23:18 Yoona Nods and smiles AnnCariseLast Tuesday at 23:19 Kelly gives an affirmative nod as well. ???_????Last Tuesday at 23:23 various nods around the room, Tsurugi shrugs a 'sure', someone murmurs they like that idea. It goes over well. CrystylLast Wednesday at 12:51 A hint of smile on Keelah's face as she looks around the gathered officers, "Alright then, now as I said; we have a lot to do. So on to the assignment tasks." She begins to look at each in turn as she addresses them; "Kazra, I need you and Alla to research Decen biology; full workup from our scan data and collated research to identify any anomalies or specific requirements." "Sana, Katherine; I would like you two to see what you can learn about the local region and determine a suitable location for the conference - pull aid from Malcolm if needed" "Tsurugi, Hyunbin; I want you to build up a picture of their technology and capability. Work with Kiera and Rumiho as I also need you two looking at their tech, but focus on their military side and see what you can learn about their methods too" "Kirstine, T'Quila; your task will be to dissect their culture. Tee has already seen a lot both on the surface and in public broadcast so I suggest starting there. We want to find any edge that will make the conference more accommodating for our guests" She looks around again, "Lar, will be working on a counter intelligence program to their already known - and predicted - methods. However if any of you require his assistance in accessing information pertinent to your assignments then do call him in. We know that Decen culture varies substantially between each Family, so keep this in mind with your research. Now if nobody has any questions, I will let you all get to it" EcosseLast Wednesday at 13:09 Kiera and the Yaluls nod their heads as they get their assignments CrystylLast Wednesday at 21:50 Keelah picks up Zee's comm from the Bridge, perking a brow at the news of the arrival CrystylLast Wednesday at 23:04 After being brought up to speed she looks around the table again as she stands, "Alright everyone, we all have work to do. Dismissed" with that she heads out to go and meet the new arrival EunhaLast Wednesday at 23:05 Sana points at Katherine "To the astrometric lab!" EcosseLast Wednesday at 23:29 Kat nods to Sana while she stands "Let's get going." Erayyed UirrLast Wednesday at 23:30 Volim runs in and looks at the conference room emptying. "Oh... I missed it?" EunhaLast Wednesday at 23:45 points to the Kelly "She'll tell you what to do, since the captain just left" Erayyed UirrLast Wednesday at 23:50 He looks around for Kelly "Oh... sir..." he says to Sana. "The.. experiment in Lab 313... it blew up..." EunhaLast Wednesday at 23:53 "Oh good, I like explosions." Erayyed UirrLast Wednesday at 23:54 "I.. didn't manage to document it. I was just about to leave to come here, and the explosion happened. I needed to go clean it, which is why I'm late..." EunhaLast Wednesday at 23:56 shakes her head "I'm docking your pay." Erayyed UirrLast Wednesday at 23:56 "We don't get paid..." EunhaLast Wednesday at 23:57 "That's what you think." Alla and Kazra take their leave together while this conversation takes place AnnCariseLast Thursday at 00:02 Kelly steps up to Volim from across the room, having noticed Sana directing him to her, "What's your specialization again, Ensign?" Erayyed UirrLast Thursday at 00:07 "Military science ma'am," AnnCariseLast Thursday at 00:11 She looks to Sana, then back to Volim, "You work closely with Lieutenant Minatozaki, right?" Erayyed UirrLast Thursday at 00:15 "Yes..." AnnCariseLast Thursday at 01:04 "You can work with her on the local cartography if you like. Commander Laski and Ensign Mitsuki are examining the Decen's military tech, which might suit your specialty better. I'm sure either group would appreciate the extra hand." Erayyed UirrLast Thursday at 01:05 Volim turns to his boss. "What would you suggest sir?" EcosseLast Thursday at 01:25 Kiera finishes making notes on her PADD before she stands and looks over at Rumiho "Time to roll Ensign." CrystylLast Thursday at 12:42 Keelah arrives from the conference room, a smile to Katie behind the console, "Energize when ready Chief" AnnCariseLast Thursday at 19:06 Katie nods and taps away at the transporter controls, "Energizing." A figure slowly materializes on the transporter pad... ---CEDI ARRIVAL--- Once the visitor completely forms, she glances around her environment briefly before performing a bow with hands folded, a distinct gesture from the greeting Keelah had received from the Drasca Family. She brushes her silver hair back as she stands straight and steps off the transporter pad, "Commander Zhyl'ia, I presume? I hope my early arrival does not inconvenience you too greatly." CrystylLast Thursday at 19:15 Keelah bows in kind, having had some practice with Decen culture now. She smiles a little as she straightens, "No, I am Captain Keelah. The Commander is my first officer, I believe it was she who first spoke with you" "And though your arrival is... unexpected, it is no inconvenience." AnnCariseLast Thursday at 19:59 The visitor smiles, "Good. I am Cedi Lorena, and I have a reason for coming ahead of schedule." CrystylLast Thursday at 20:04 Keelah gestures to the door, "Why don't we take a walk while you bring me up to speed. I admit, I am curious to hear what you have to say" AnnCariseLast Thursday at 20:12 Cedi nods and smiles again while moving towards the door. --Transition to Turbolifts and Hallways-- AnnCariseLast Thursday at 20:21 Cedi Lorena, the visitor from the Lorena Family of the Decen, exits the transporter room and walks down the halls of the ship with Keelah. AnnCariseLast Thursday at 20:33 Cedi: "You have a very pretty ship, inside and out. Do you happen to be merchants?" CrystylLast Thursday at 20:44 "Thank you. It is not our primary purpose, no we are explorers above all" Keelah smiles as they walk, "Though we do have a civilian complement on board and scope to engage in trade. Is that a cornerstone of yur Family?" AnnCariseLast Thursday at 20:49 Cedi nods, "We have our roots as a merchant Family, yes. The Lorenas were able to fund our expedition away from Hallon to colonize our world due to the success of our business. Our control over resources is where our power stems from." She pauses for a moment before continuing, "That is why I am here. With such power, my Family thought they were strong enough to dabble in war and conquest. Some of us still do, despite our losses over the years. But I believe we are at our core still merchants." CrystylLast Thursday at 20:57 "Interesting" Keelah nods as they walk, "But I do not yet see why this brings you to us ahead of the conference..." AnnCariseLast Thursday at 21:02 Cedi: "You seek to gather representatives from all the great Families together in a peaceful meeting, a feat unprecedented since the dissolution of the old alliance. It is a chance to cease hostilities and form new alliances. Merchants operate best when we have more trade partners, and less ships trying to shoot us down or raid us." Cedi: "I am aware of the circumstances that have forced your hand into this action, and I know your understanding of the Families is very limited. I come ahead of the others to offer any assistance I can in hopes of creating a better future for my Family, and perhaps for all Families." CrystylLast Thursday at 21:19 "I believe there are some on board who would be eager to meet you with that approach" she chuckles, "Though I hope you didn't come all the way out here ahead of the conference with the hopes of forging some special tie between us and your Family. As I'm afraid you will be left disappointed if that is so" AnnCariseLast Thursday at 21:26 Cedi: "Oh no, I do not expect you to favour the Lorenas above any other. Though we do carry a small gift of dilithium crystals as is our custom presentation to new allies, not as a bribe of course. Your ship does run on dilithium, right?" CrystylLast Thursday at 21:34 Keelah perks a brow, "You seem rather well informed. If this is your way, then I would not wamt to offend by rejecting any kindness. I take it then that your business empire is built up from dilithium resources?" AnnCariseLast Thursday at 21:38 Cedi: "That and more. We possess two mining systems, each rich in resources, alongside those of our colony system which are mostly depleted now." CrystylLast Thursday at 21:42 "You should meet some of my engineering crew while you are here. They would be most interested in your refining processes. We would also have to thoroughly test your product to ensure compatability with our hardware as it requires a very precise refinement" AnnCariseLast Thursday at 21:54 Cedi: "Oh, refining the product is not my specialty, but we have members of Families who see to such things on board. I am versed in negotiation, which means knowledge of the other Families. Knowledge that I hope will make this meeting you have set up go smoothly." CrystylLast Thursday at 21:56 She smirks a little, "Knowledge equals profit?" She asks knowingly AnnCariseLast Thursday at 22:09 Cedi smiles, "That is one way to put it. Knowing those you talk with always helps with negotiations. Which is why I have arrived early, to answer any queries you may have of the Families to the best of my ability." CrystylLast Thursday at 22:17 "It is a 'Rule of Acquisition', number 74 if I remember correctly. They are used by a species called the Ferengi who are very... enthusiastic, about thei business. Still I remain curious; what is the price for this generous offer of knowledge?" AnnCariseLast Thursday at 22:23 Cedi: "I think I've heard that name before. A rodent-like humanoid species characterized by their business sense and greed, yes?" CrystylLast Thursday at 22:39 Keelah chuckles, "Something like that. You again impress me with how well informed you are. Has your family had many dealings with species from beyond this region, either coreward where we come from or perhaps further out like Underworld?" AnnCariseLast Thursday at 22:50 Cedi nods, "Occasionally, but we do not have as strong ties with Underworld as the Satri Family. We are not like the Ferengi or the Carrans of Underworld. The Lorena are merchants, yes, but we do not seek compensation for everything we do." Cedi: "It is my hope, of course, that you will do what you can to assist in securing friendly relations between the Families once again." CrystylLast Thursday at 23:04 "Whilst I have no wish to involve us directly in the politics of anyone we encounter, it is in our interests to establish an amicable relationship. If in the process of buildimg these new bridges we see the Drecen families reaching more of a mutual accord, well that will certainly be a nice bonus I won't say no to" she smiles AnnCariseLast Thursday at 23:20 Cedi: "That is all I can ask of you. I will offer any information that may help you establish these relationships." CrystylLast Friday at 12:40 "Well as I mentioned, we are explorers first and foremost. I have a lot of teams at work around the ship who would welcome local insight" AnnCariseLast Friday at 15:50 Cedi: “Introduce me to your teams then, and I shall provide any insight they might need.” CrystylLast Friday at 22:11 "Well I have a team in sickbay attempting to learn more about Decen physiology. As hosts we like to be confident in being able to cater to our guests needs and take care of them should the need arise. It's just down here" she smiles, turning a corner ---transition to Sickbay--- After the Conference Kazra and Alla make their way to sickbay to being their work researching the Decen biology AnnCariseLast Thursday at 01:04 Lieutenant Trenick enters the sickbay, dressed in his usual science duty uniform. "I heard we're studying the biology of a new species we made contact with." EunhaLast Thursday at 18:47 "That we are." AnnCariseLast Thursday at 18:47 "Mind if I have a look as well?" EunhaLast Thursday at 18:51 "Sure thing." AnnCariseLast Thursday at 20:02 "Excellent! I was part of the away team to their planet, or one of them from what I gathered. Didn't take any scans though." EunhaLast Thursday at 21:06 "Ah well, at least we have some in the database right?" AnnCariseLast Thursday at 21:12 "I believe the ship scans of the planet provided some information on their biology. Not as much as a close-up scan would have, but I didn't want to risk sparking a diplomatic incident by waving a tricorder around without being invited to." EunhaLast Thursday at 21:15 "I can't imagine why." AnnCariseLast Thursday at 21:32 Trenick walks over to a console with a large display, "May I?" EunhaLast Thursday at 21:37 "Have at it." AnnCariseLast Thursday at 21:43 Trenick taps away at the console for a moment before stepping back, "Here's all the data we've collected so far." EunhaLast Thursday at 21:51 Alla and Kazra both give it a look over AnnCariseLast Thursday at 21:56 The information shows that the Decen are definitely a mammalian humanoid species with a unique biosignature, but no in-depth detail on their anatomy or genetics. EunhaLast Thursday at 22:05 "If only there were some way we could get a proper bio scan." AnnCariseLast Thursday at 22:14 Trenick taps the console a few times, pauses, glances at the screen, then taps again, "According to our internal sensors, there's a lifeform that matches their signature on board right now." EunhaLast Thursday at 22:16 "Well how convenient." AnnCariseLast Thursday at 22:54 "Indeed! We could use our internal sensors to scan them, but maybe they will be willing to stop by sickbay and assist in our efforts." EunhaLast Thursday at 22:55 "Perhaps but for now I think the internal sensors will do." Looks to Kazra "If the boss lets us that is." AnnCariseLast Thursday at 23:03 Kazra nods, "Go ahead. A cursory scan with internal sensors will give more information on the species without revealing any detailed personal information that would fall under patient confidentiality." AnnCariseLast Thursday at 23:24 Trenick looks to Alla and motions to the console, "All yours, doctor." EunhaLast Thursday at 23:31 Alla does the scan AnnCariseLast Thursday at 23:38 The physiology of the Decen share many similarities to other mammalian humanoids. The location of organs, exact number of bones, etc. have differences but they possess roughly the same functions as humans. Out of species known to the Federation, they seem closest to the Risians, though their genetic makeup is completely different and they are certainly not related to the natives of Risa at all. The specific individual being scanned is female and showcases the typical features of a female mammal, including the capability to give birth to live young rather than laying eggs. EunhaLast Friday at 00:23 "Interesting, better save this all to the database." "So I suppose males would share similarities to Risians as well." AnnCariseLast Friday at 00:26 "Most likely, but not necessarily. Their genetics appear to be very different from Risians, and the organ placement and capabilities appear to be more of a coincidence than anything else. It's not impossible for males to be very different, but such extreme dimorphism is not typical of most mammalians." EunhaLast Friday at 00:27 "True very true." AnnCariseLast Friday at 02:19 As for functionality, the Decen seem to have slightly stronger livers and slightly less lung capacity than the typical human. Their eyes also seem better adjusted for adjusting to darker environments and they have higher than average metabolism. All the differences however are relatively minute, not giving the Decen any major physiological advantage or disadvantage. CrystylLast Friday at 22:12 Keelah enters closely followed by their guest AnnCariseLast Friday at 22:14 Cedi looks around the sickbay, "This is where you care for your wounded?" CrystylLast Friday at 22:15 "Among other things, yes" she nods with a smile AnnCariseLast Friday at 22:19 Trenick notices their entrance and turns, "Ah, it seems we have visitors." CrystylLast Friday at 22:21 "That we do, Lieutenant. How goes your research?" AnnCariseLast Friday at 22:25 Trenick: "We've gotten a good amount of physiological information from the scans we have, though we don't have the clearest scans or the largest data set." CrystylLast Friday at 22:26 "Well hopefully our guest here will be able to assist you then" AnnCariseLast Friday at 22:26 Cedi: "That I can. I am no doctor, but I'm almost certain your data set is going to be missing some information." AnnCariseLast Friday at 23:28 Trenick: "Oh?" Cedi: "Your data all match up, yes? Genetically?" Trenick: "Well, the only one we've scanned close enough to obtain genetic information is, well...you." EunhaYesterday at 00:06 “Internal sensors.” AnnCariseYesterday at 00:09 Cedi: "I expect you've not had a chance to scan one of the Halloni, then." AnnCariseYesterday at 03:18 Trenick: "Halloni? We're familiar with that term. Is it another species you work with, or a word that's not translating properly?" Cedi: "That depends on what the word being translated into 'species' means in your language. The Halloni are Decen from Hallon. I am Unchanged, or a Colony Decen." AnnCariseYesterday at 03:59 Trenick gives her a puzzled look, "Did these Halloni evolve separately from you?" Cedi: "Evolve would not be the right word, in our language at least. They are changed. During the time of the old alliance, the large Families that became the ruling Families today saw the instability of Hallon's political climate and funded colonization ventures into space." Trenick: "Hallon is your homeworld?" Cedi: "Lorena is my home world. Hallon was where the Decen evolved." Trenick: "That's what homeworld...nevermind, I don't suppose that translates properly. Please, go on." Cedi: "After we left Hallon behind, the tensions erupted and the resulting wars covered the world with radioactive particles. The survivors were changed. Some Halloni Families developed small changes in features, but most look like Halloni but have enough resistance to the radiation to survive on Hallon. Many Halloni have since moved to the colonies and now serve one of the ruling Families." Mitsuki Rumiho@yf47dex#9446 looks around, "Am I.. early?" Keelah@crystyll chuckles a little, "You're fine Ensign, take a seat" Mitsuki Rumiho@yf47dex#9446 looks around, “anywhere?” NPC@annpc#5570 FX | Cedi Lorena is in the conference room, speaking with Silvestrie. Two of Silvestrie's security personnel, Petty Officers Nishaa Sethi and Delaan, flank the door. NPC@annpc#5570 | Cedi looks from Silvestrie to Keelah to Rumi to Delaan, "There are so many different people here..." Keelah@crystyll: "If a seat is empty, consider it unclaimed" she smiles Mitsuki Rumiho@yf47dex#9446 sits and just sort of waits silently.. not sure what she should really be doing for now NPC@annpc#5570 FX | The intercom for the room beeps. Keelah@crystyll looking to Cedi with a smile, "It's a big ship. Lot more crew than those you've met already..." trails off, tapping the comm panel NPC@annpc#5570 | Kelly's voice sounds: "Captain, we've got ships inbound. One of them is hailing and requesting to transport the Valeni representative on board." Keelah@crystyll: <C> "Alright Kelly, have the visiting ships providing with a holding pattern and beam our guests over. They can be escorted straight to the conference room" NPC@annpc#5570: <C - Kelly> "Got it. Starting to bring them over now." NPC@annpc#5570 | A few minutes later, Iren Valeni enters the room and Cedi stands to greet her with a bow. Keelah@crystyll also stands, presenting the now well rehearsed greeting bow Mitsuki Rumiho@yf47dex#9446 follows the Captain's move, but pretty much just literally NPC@annpc#5570 | Cedi: "It is good to see you here, Iren of the Valeni Family." Keelah@crystyll: "Welcome to my Home, Iren. It is good to meet you properly at last" NPC@annpc#5570 | Iren bows in return: "Greetings to you as well, Cedi of Lorena. And you as well, foreigner captain." Keelah@crystyll gestures to an empty seat, "Please, join us. The other representatives should be along momentarily NPC@annpc#5570 | Iren takes a seat by Cedi. Keelah@crystyll returns to her seat as the guests sit. "I understand it has been some time now since so many representatives from the different Families gathered in one place?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Cedi: "Some time is putting it lightly." NPC@annpc#5570 | Iren: "The last such meeting in our history was before any of us were born." Keelah@crystyll: "Then I would consider this cause for celebration already. We have synthesized Decen refreshments, as well as a sampling of likened offerings from the core of the Federation. Please, help yourselves" NPC@annpc#5570 | Cedi picks something out and gives it a try, "Interesting. It tastes...authentic." Keelah@crystyll smiles at that, "I am glad to hear it. Programming these recipes can be something of an artform, so I will be sure to let our teams know" Mitsuki Rumiho@yf47dex#9446 kinds just watches, not wanting to be rude by saying anything, she is not used to fancy diplomatic events like this clearly NPC@annpc#5570 | Cedi: "Our food synthesizers are very basic. They provide us with the nutrients needed on voyages, but rarely the luxury of properly prepared food." NPC@annpc#5570 | Iren: "If Lorena synthesized food is basic, you should try what everyone else is eating..." NPC@annpc#5570 | A third Decen enters the room, this time a male with pale skin. NPC@annpc#5570 | Iren and Cedi both stand and bow, but there is a visible reluctance in their gestures. Keelah@crystyll quietly observes the interaction between the two, standing to again greet the new arrival with a customary bow NPC@annpc#5570: Cedi: "Tasar of Medan. I see you have come after all." Keelah@crystyll: "Aah, the Medan representative. Thank you for coming, and welcome to my Home" NPC@annpc#5570 | Tasar: "It is a very impressive ship. You must be a powerful people." Keelah@crystyll returning to her seat, and gesturing for him to join at the table, "Power is a relative term, I find. But we have been exploring space for a very long time now, as such our technology has grown to + Keelah@crystyll: + suit" NPC@annpc#5570 | Tasar: "The last great alliance of Decen Families occured in the face of outsiders with technology as advanced as yours. But under very different circumstances." Keelah@crystyll nods her understanding, "Strength in unity, yes. Something which sits at the heart of many species within the Federation" NPC@annpc#5570 | Iren scoffs: "You bring up the alliance as if you appreciate it. Was it not the Medan Family that broke it first?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Tasar: "And you would not have choked us to death if we had allowed you to claim all of Sundar's territories?" Keelah@crystyll raises her hands, "Please, we are not here to debate hypotheticals of your past. You are both the first of your Families to congregate like this in more than a generation. Let us focus on that + Keelah@crystyll: + positive, shall we?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Another voice sounds from the doorway as another male Decen enters, this one Keelah would remember from the surface of Drasca Colony. NPC@annpc#5570 | Drasca Representative: "Indeed, well said, Captain." Keelah@crystyll would rise again for a welcoming bow, tensing slightly at the sight of this arrival, "Glad you could make it. Welcome to /my/ Home" she smiles, indicating for him to take a seat Keelah@crystyll: "Guscei, I assume you are already familiar with our other guests?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Cedi looks around and speaks quietly to Rumi, the nearest Starfleet personnel, "You have measures to scan for and neutralize poisons, yes?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Guscei: "Of course. I am a Drasca, after all." Mitsuki Rumiho@yf47dex#9446 raises an eyebrow, "Uh... I think so?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Cedi: "Good. While I hope for the best for this meeting...one can never be too careful around a Drasca." NPC@annpc#5570 | Guscei: "Do you think the Satri will send anyone?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Tasar: "I doubt it. They are the Satri, after all." NPC@annpc#5570 | Guscei: "They did join the alliance against the Sundar." NPC@annpc#5570 | Iren: "No doubt thanks to your Family pulling the strings." NPC@annpc#5570 | Guscei: "Our Family started that alliance, if you don't recall." NPC@annpc#5570 | Iren: "Yes, while also being allied to the Sundar.” NPC@annpc#5570 | Guscei seems to look out the windows instead of responding, and Iren and Cedi turn around to check as well. Keelah@crystyll refrains from interjecting as they all seem to get distracted NPC@annpc#5570 | Outside the Valley Forge, another ship is approaching, looking relatively distinct from the other Decen ships. NPC@annpc#5570 | Guscei: "Now where would you all be without our string-pulling?" He gives a wry smirk. NPC@annpc#5570 | A few moments later, a dark-skinned female Decen in a much more casual outfit than the rest steps into the conference room. NPC@annpc#5570 | She doesn't bow, merely striding in, eyes darting from person to person like a hawk. NPC@annpc#5570 | Guscei starts the bow, and the other representatives join in. Keelah@crystyll looks up, once again standing for a greeting bow, "Welcome to the Valley Forge" NPC@annpc#5570 | Satri Rep: "Always so formal. Relax. The Satri don't need ego-stoking." NPC@annpc#5570 | Guscei: "Edel Satri?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Edel: "Yes. That's my name. Just Edel will do." Keelah@crystyll perks a brow at the questioning tone, perhaps smirking a little after the earlier bravado implying the Dracas were all knowing Keelah@crystyll: "Welcome to my Home Edel. You can call me Keelah. Please, won't you join us?" she gestures to a free chair NPC@annpc#5570 | Edel props herself down, taking a small tart from the table and popping it into her mouth before leaning back and crossing her legs. NPC@annpc#5570 | Cedi buries her head in her hands for a moment in disapproval. Keelah@crystyll looks around the table with a proud smile, "Well now, if I thought we had cause for celebration before..." NPC@annpc#5570 | Edel: "I'm only here for the free food. Free without the risk of poisoning that is," she eyes Guscei Drasca with a half-mocking glance. Keelah@crystyll: "Five great Families, all under one roof. Truly, this an occasion worth remembering. Thank you all for coming, regardless of motivation" she holds a polite smile, raising her glass in way of a toast NPC@annpc#5570 | Edel fills a glass and raises it casually. The other representatives copy the gesture, but much more stiffly and less naturally. Keelah@crystyll: "Now I know the last time such a gathering occurred was when your Families aligned and formed the Alliance of your forefathers. I also know that this is a different time, and we are not here to + Keelah@crystyll: + reforge that Alliance..." she pauses looking around the table, "That said however, I do see great potential at this table and would like to think that if nothing else; this gathering may serve at + Keelah@crystyll: + least as a first step towards something more long-lasting" NPC@annpc#5570 | Cedi nods, "Between our Five Families, we have more than enough territory to sustain the entire Decen population. Alliances or no alliances, it is my belief that we can coexist together without - NPC@annpc#5570: - the constant conflicts we have seen for the past few centuries, and allow trade to supply the few resources that are truly in limit." NPC@annpc#5570 | Tasar: "Of course you would say that Lorena, so you can have your vast trading empire of the days of the old alliance." Keelah@crystyll: "Tell me Tasar, what is considered the strength of your Family?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Tasar: "Foresight. The Medans were one of the first to see the state of the old alliance and leave for other worlds. We have possessed many brilliant military minds, but only now have we the - NPC@annpc#5570: - resources to directly rival others like the Valeni." NPC@annpc#5570 | Iren: "Only because you snatched it right from underneath all of us." Keelah@crystyll raises a hand, "Please Iren, I know it is difficult-" she looks to all of them, "-for anyone to let go of the past. But I would encourage you all to keep in mind that historical context tends to be a+ Keelah@crystyll: + very singular thing. By which I mean, almost any action taken can be perceived both positively and negatively. This is why we try so hard to separate ourselves from it" NPC@annpc#5570 | Edel speaks while half-munching on something, "This ceasefire you propose could work, but first you have to redistribute the resources. There might be enough for all Decen, but it's not spread - NPC@annpc#5570: - out evenly. We've never been ones for expansion like all of you, but that's why we have to raid. We don't have deuterium, dilithium, barely any uranium. You give us Lasei, and we'll be content to - NPC@annpc#5570: - leave you alone. But you'll never do that, will you?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Cedi: "I would, but my Family would not allow it. We have only recently found Lasei while our other mines are slowly being depleted. We will trade for it, at best." NPC@annpc#5570 | Edel: "All we have is our colony, and we're not giving Satri away." Keelah@crystyll: "And therein lies both your problem, and your solution" she chimes in NPC@annpc#5570 | Iren: "What do you mean?" Keelah@crystyll smiles a little, looking around the table, "I understand your division; each of your respective Families has hard earned assets. Nobody wants to give up what they have, it's against the nature of + Keelah@crystyll: + just about every sentient lifeform I have ever met..." she begins to spread her stack of padd's around in a loose mess on the table in front of her as she speaks Keelah@crystyll: "Each individual element..." she continues, dragging the padds around idly, "Has its own value. Its own strengths and weaknesses. It is a small part which can not last indefinitely on it's own. Be + Keelah@crystyll: + it needing to raid the others, strike deals with them, or fight over what they have..." she moves the padds together and apart accordingly as she speaks Keelah@crystyll: "But each of those strengths is a complement to another’s weakness..." she begins restacking them neatly, "...and when they are all combined as one, well we have a saying: 'the 'whole' is greater than+ Keelah@crystyll: + the sum of it's parts" NPC@annpc#5570 | Cedi: "Exactly. None of us may remember the old alliance, but all of us know the history and the stories. Yes, we travelled to space to escape the mounting tensions between the Families, but we - NPC@annpc#5570: - would never have gotten there if the Families hadn't united first and worked together to develop the technology for us to do so." NPC@annpc#5570 | Tasar: "Conflict drives invention as well." Keelah@crystyll: "War is good for business" she retorts cryptically in tone Keelah@crystyll: "Rule of Acquisition number 34" she clarifies, "Rule number 35: /Peace/ is good for business" NPC@annpc#5570 | Cedi: "Yes, but have we ever developed as fast as when we had minds from all Families solving problems side by side?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Guscei: "I suppose not. And we've been doing our best to keep our recent developments a secret from one another." Keelah@crystyll: "Imagine now then..." she starts looking around again to ensure she holds full attention Keelah@crystyll: "The might of the Valeni fleet, proudly protecting Decen assets - armed with the best intelligence of foreign threats by the Drascas. In advanced ships of Medan foresight with hearty Satri crews. All+ Keelah@crystyll: + well stocked and fit to explore and trade beyond your borders as we do using Lorena assets" NPC@annpc#5570 | Iren: "But how can we forget the past so easily? Cedi may be able to forgive, but there are many of us who have watched members of our Family murdered at the hands of the others." Keelah@crystyll: "Nobody said it would be easy. Even for the Federation, such things take time" Keelah@crystyll: "What the essential first step almost always consists of however; is one small group willing to make the effort and lead by example" NPC@annpc#5570 | Tasar: "The Valeni makes a fair point. Every Family has some feud with another. Even if we convince all our Patriarchs and Matriarchs to set aside theirs, others either in our Families or - NPC@annpc#5570: - subservient Families will seek to continue the fight, with or without support from the great Families." Keelah@crystyll: "It is indeed a challenge, and one that - even if you set your minds to it now - may not see a true resolution within the lifetime of anyone at this table" NPC@annpc#5570 | Cedi: "But it doesn't mean it's not worth trying. We don't fight just for our own desires and vendettas, but-" NPC@annpc#5570 | Edel: "Speak for yourself, Lorena." NPC@annpc#5570 | Cedi: "I'm sure even you do many things for the good of your whole Family, Satri. And a future where we're not at one another's throats will be good for all our Families." NPC@annpc#5570 | Iren: "So will a future where our Family rules all the Decen." NPC@annpc#5570 | Tasar: "But can you guarantee that to be your Family?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Iren: "Since when does a Medan ever agree with a Lorena?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Tasar: "Simply because we are not allies does not mean I can't see the logic behind her reasoning." NPC@annpc#5570 | Cedi: "We are both agreeing with the foreign captain here. This is not /my/ idea, and it would not be fair to say it was hers either. Our ancestors had such ideas when the old alliance was - NPC@annpc#5570: - formed, and so did hers." NPC@annpc#5570 | Edel glances to Keelah, "How well does this Federation of yours work, anyways?" Keelah@crystyll smiles, tapping a control in front of her and changing the wall displays to reflect her dialogue Keelah@crystyll: "Pretty well I would say. I am not so naive to call it perfect, nothing truly is in the eyes of everyone after all. But I can tell you that it has stood strong for centuries now; growing in strength,+ Keelah@crystyll: + power, and collective territory exponentially with the passage of time. Yes we have fought hard wars, both within our borders and beyond. But ultimately, our diversity and mutual cooperation has + Keelah@crystyll: + seen us - and all member states - through countless challenges. There are hundreds of member worlds now; some major, some not. But all sharing in that vision of working together to create a better + Keelah@crystyll: + world for ourselves and those who follow" NPC@annpc#5570 | Guscei: "Perhaps a history of your Federation could help sway some of our Family heads into seeing that your way might just work." Keelah@crystyll: "Perhaps... perhaps that of one of our oldest adversaries also - the Klingon Empire. You might be interested to know that they too once stood as independent Houses, much as you do now. They are a + Keelah@crystyll: + warrior race throughout however, and have been involved in multiple conflicts over the centuries with the Federation, among others. But now, even they stand at our sides in a friendly alliance" NPC@annpc#5570 | Iren: "Interesting. The history of such a people might be very beneficial to the Valeni." Keelah@crystyll: "And it will be readily available to you as an inclusive part of our history. To all of you" NPC@annpc#5570 | Cedi smiles, "Thank you. And we will be happy to provide you our own records if you are interested, and the Lorenas will guarantee you safe passage through our territories." NPC@annpc#5570 | Edel: "I think none of us are stupid enough to try and attack this ship. Our raiders will figure out not to mess with you with or without directive from the Satri." Keelah@crystyll: "That is appreciated, and we are always interested in learning more - be it about your people or your knowledge of the regions beyond your borders" Keelah@crystyll: "Trade is often a good foundation to build upon with new foreign powers. Another reason I encourage you to find unison among your Families, given the potential with us just a short distance away" NPC@annpc#5570 | Edel: "And Underworld. But of course all of you right and proper Families don't like associating yourself with the Carrans." Keelah@crystyll: "All the more reason to work together. Think of what you could achieve to strengthen your own assets if you worked with Edel to trade through Underworld. I for one would be interested in learning more Keelah@crystyll: + of that place" Keelah@crystyll draws a deep breath, "We have covered a lot of ground very quickly here. I think we should take a short break to reflect on things" Keelah@crystyll: "It will also give us all a chance to reflect on the shared learning we discussed, and so to further demonstrate the values we were discussing I will be assigning each of you one of my officer's as an + Keelah@crystyll: + escort. They will show you around some areas of potential interest around the ship, then we can resume here afterwards" Keelah@crystyll taps her comm panel Keelah@crystyll: <C> Tee, please have Lendaria, Vrolmacht, Ensign Rivett, Jexala and Kelly report to the conference room Keelah@crystyll looks to the guests, "Each of these officers heralds from a different Federation species, each with its own strengths and weaknesses as we talked about. Hopefully by speaking with them, you will + Keelah@crystyll: + get to see first hand how we can balance each other out" she smiles as the officers shuffle in and pair off with their partnered guests Keelah@crystyll FX | Under Keelah's coordination, Lennie pairs with Satri. Jexala with Lorena, Vrolmacht with Valeni, Rivett with Drasca and Kelly with Medan Keelah@crystyll FX | A few hours later, the officers start to filter back in and deposit their respective guests Keelah@crystyll looks around with a smile once everyone is again seated, "Well now, I trust you all enjoyed your tours?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Guscei: "I think I can speak for all of us when I say we've learned quite a lot." Keelah@crystyll: "As I am certain we have. I hope however, that the point I was looking to make in the exercise was not lost on anyone?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Iren: "It seems the galaxy is quite filled with powerful warrior factions, 'worthy adversaries' as your Klingon put it." NPC@annpc#5570 | Cedi: "A good reason as any we should work together, lest one decide to strike at us." Keelah@crystyll chuckles, "He does have a way with words... But yes, and in the grand scheme of things this is all still just within our own small corner of it" Keelah@crystyll nods to Cedi, "An all to poignant aspect that I did not want to broach earlier, for fear of scaremongering" Keelah@crystyll: "But I prefer to not focus on the negative hypotheticals, and instead look to the positives..." Keelah@crystyll leans back a little, folding her hands in her lap, "Like the potential for friendly relations to form not just between the Decen Families, but between the Decen people as a whole and the Federation" NPC@annpc#5570 | Cedi: "Yes, a galaxy of trade and commerce awaits if we stop warring with ourselves and start looking outwards." Keelah@crystyll: "Maybe one day with the Decen even finding a place as a member. Starships like the Valley Forge reinforcing your fleet, and with Decen officers as welcome members of their crew. That is the future + Keelah@crystyll: + vision I choose to see" NPC@annpc#5570 | Tasar: "It is a future the Medan can stand behind. And perhaps it is not as out of reach as we thought." Keelah@crystyll leans in, folded hands rising to rest on the table, "Now I should be clear in this; the potential unification of the Decen people is something that you will have to resolve on your own. The Federation + Keelah@crystyll: + will not directly intervene in internal affairs. That said, I am sure once we extend our communications network to this region that Command would see fit to aid and assist in the process" NPC@annpc#5570 | Guscei: "We'll do our best to relay what we have learned to the rest of the Decen, and convince them that this is the best way." Keelah@crystyll: "They may even see fit to assign a representative here on a longer term basis to help you establish that solidarity, if it is something unilaterally desired. In the short term, we can provide you all+ Keelah@crystyll: + with extensive documentation supporting what you have learned here today" NPC@annpc#5570 | Cedi: "Great. I expect my Family will not be overly difficult to convince." Keelah@crystyll looks to each of the other guests in turn, hoping for a similar declaration NPC@annpc#5570 | Iren: "The Valeni set aside our vendettas and answered the threat of the Sundar's foreign allies. We can do so again, especially when my Family sees how far we must go to match some of the - NPC@annpc#5570: - other powers nearby." NPC@annpc#5570 | Guscei: "The Drascas were never the strongest military. We will fare much better when there is no war, and the others can see that. I cannot guarantee results, I must play the same game as all - NPC@annpc#5570: - the rest of my Family. I may be eliminated before any real change is made, but it would be foolish of whoever leads the Drascas to ignore such an opportunity for betterment." NPC@annpc#5570 | Tasar: "The Medans will accept your vision of the future and see the wisdom in working towards it, Captain. Of that I am sure." NPC@annpc#5570 | Edel: "We've never been much involved in these conflicts anyways. You all know us, we hate everyone equally. But give us fair trade for antimatter tech, and we'll stop raiding for it." Keelah@crystyll smiles, "Then it seems we have an accord. I trust then, that our passage through your territory will be no cause for further concern or quarry?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Tasar: "You're free to pass Medan space. And I doubt any of the other Families will try to stop you." Keelah@crystyll smiles and nods at that, "It will be some time still before we move beyond your borders. Hopefully between now and then, we can continue dialogue with each of you and continue the shared learning" NPC@annpc#5570 | Cedi: "The Lorena Family looks forward to hearing more about the various factions we may be able to set up trade with." Keelah@crystyll: "No doubt Jexala has already been seeking a few new trade routes for us to establish before departing as well" she chuckles NPC@annpc#5570 | Cedi: "We should be happy to trade you any supplies you may need, assuming what we have is of use to your advanced vessel." Keelah@crystyll: "All in good time, no doubt. Jex was probably more interested in obtaining stock of Decen delicacies and beverages" she adds with another chuckle Keelah@crystyll: "But with all said and done, I see no reason to keep you all here as I'm sure you all have a lot to do..." she stands NPC@annpc#5570 | The representatives stand as well, each performing their farewell bows save for Edel, of course. The Satri don't seem big on formalities. Keelah@crystyll raises her glass, "A toast then; to the five Decen Families" NPC@annpc#5570 | The representatives raise their glasses, "And to the Valley Forge." Keelah@crystyll tips her raised glass a little to conclude the toast and return the farewell bow Keelah@crystyll would then look to Silvestrie, "Would you please see to it that our guests all find their way comfortably back to their ships" NPC@annpc#5570 | Silvestrie nods, "Of course, Captain." Keelah@crystyll offers a final traditional parting of her own to the guests, raising her hand in a Vulcan salute, "in the custom of my own people as well; Live long and prosper. I look forward to seeing more of each Keelah@crystyll: of you" NPC@annpc#5570 | Guscei and Cedi return the gesture to Keelah before they follow the others out of the conference room, escorted by Silvestrie and the security personnel. Keelah@crystyll holds a satisfied smile, moving to stare thoughtfully out of the window and sip more of her drink
View Log Entry
SUBMITTED: Stardate 96472.6 FILED BY: CAPT Keelah SECURITY: Level 1 - Open
LOCATION:Sector V-001 | Deep Space
MISSION:Host conference for the leading Decen Families and establish amicable relations
OUTCOME:An accord has been reached between the representatives and passage through Decen territories secured. Astrometrics have been updated beyond presently explored regions with information provided by the Decen.
KEY PERSONNEL:
CAPT Keelah CMDR Meel LCDR Keliaya LCDR Laski LCDR Lendaria LCDR Vrolmacht LT Alla LT Hyunbin LTJG Minatozaki LTJG Shinwa LTJG Yalul LTJG Yalul ENS Mitsuki ENS Monnir ENS Rivett CPO T'Quila Jexala Lar Guscei Drasca Cedi Lorena Tasar Medan Edel Satri Iren Valeni
NARRATIVE:
Following our first encounter with the Decen people, multiple teams from around the ship worked to rapidly dissect and comprehend various aspects of Decen culture and society in preparation for this conference. Knowing the delicate nature of the inter-Family politics, no detail was left to chance. Representative Cedi Lorena sought us out a few days ahead of the conference; revealing herself - and her Family - to be strongly in favour of a new unified Decen people, which was an optimistic goal for the conference in the eyes of many. She aided our teams and provided additional valuable insight into the intricacies of Decen society that paid dividends at the conference.
The conference itself was executed to the highest of standards; a proud and commendable accomplishment for the entire crew given the circumstances. As predicted, the representatives all arrived individually and were escorted to the conference room. Not so confidently predicted was the attendance of all five leading families; marked by the arrival of the Satri representative who was by the far most distinctly separate from the others. With all of the families represented together, it was a simple process of observation during the opening dialogues for me to discern key distinguishing features to each family which I surmise below for further reference;
DRASCA: Primary focus on Intelligence operations; espionage, subterfuge & propaganda all as key strengths.
LORENI: Merchants and traders; own and operate key dilithium facilities with Decen territory.
MEDAN: Self declared strength as 'foresight'; seemingly strong strategists with greater capacity for comprehension of the larger galactic state of play. Accused of treachery in being the first family to break the previous alliance; stand by decision preempting the inevitable.
SATRI: A self-made family built on raiding the assets of others. Perfectly accepting of their actions, but also quick to reinforce the necessity for survival through statement that sufficient trade & treatment would negate the need for their raiding operations. Lacking the formality of other families, but possessing strong and passionate belief.
VALENI: Heavily focused on military prowess and driven largely by a sense of righteous vengeance. Also show relative enlightenment and were the first family to agree to attending the conference.
The initial part of the conference was understandably tense as this was the first time in living memory that all Families had sat together in this manner (the previous being more than a generation prior when the original Decen Alliance was formed to stand against a foreign power referred to as the Sundar). While some representatives - like those from the Medan and Loreni Families - seemed willing, if not eager, to pursue the potential of a new Alliance. Others like Satri and Valeni were much more as predicted and resistant to such a concept. As dialogue progressed, a consistent admiration for what we represented became increasingly apparent. Whatever the Decen's stance towards each other was, they all spoke in praise of the Valley Forge and Starfleet; be it for the technological accomplishment of such a starship, the (relative) military capability it presented, or the grander society it represented in the Federation. It was apparent to me by this point that the accord I sought to strike with each Family - allowing passage through their territory and a mutual understanding that we would not directly affiliate with any one Family over another - was all but a given prior to the conference (owing to the aforementioned variable states of opinion regarding us, be it mutual respect or acknowledgement of a superior power and capability).
This led me to the deduction that - despite individual opinions presented - all five Families did, at some level, at least want to entertain the concept of a new unified Decen people. With this in mind, I steered the conference towards supporting said concept; using both the Federation and Klingon Empire as examples. Whilst this approach did gain traction in the talks, it began to stall with the realization that it was simply the words of one captain - nothing evidenced beyond our actual presence in the region. At this point I decided to call a recess and summoned some of my officers to escort each of our guests independently in tours around suitable areas of interest across the ship. My selected officers were chosen purposefully, with each being of a different Federation species that had common elements which each representative would be able to sympathize and relate to.
Reconvening a few hours later, the shift in each of the representatives was apparent upon their return. Through their brief insights into how entire different species (including Orion, Klingon, Denobulan, Vulcan & Talaxian) could come together and achieve so much as part of something like the Federation, each of the representatives had a fresh perspective. Further to this, they all gained contextual insight into the galaxy at large which helped reinforce the importance that they stand together as one united people. A conclusion to the conference was prompt in following at this point, and all representatives agreed on working together to take the necessary first steps towards unifying their people. This was bolstered with all making statements of declaration regarding an accord with the Valley Forge.
RECOMMENDATION:
The Valley Forge will continue on course, passing through Decen territory. It will be some weeks before we clear the far side, and so additional missions will be authorized to continue cultural exchanges and establish trade agreements with the various Families as we proceed. Regarding the development of the Decen people, once communication channels are available I recommend a Federation controlled dialogue be opened with the Decen to support the ongoing setup of future trade deals and cultural development. Given the proximity not only to Federation territory but also the estimated Azedi border, I would also consider using said opening talks to open a dialogue with the Diplomatic Corps. and potentially the assignment of a liaison officer to Decen territory with mind to guide and assist their development towards unification.