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= Capitolo 13.1: Un frutto proibito = | = Capitolo 13.1: Un frutto proibito = | ||
'' | ===Uncanny Visitations=== | ||
''Transgalactic report 72.8.512, Trice Chavos, Universal Council'' | |||
With Federation credibility being tested in regard to the Anomaly Shockwave event, the future of the MIEB Task Force falls further into question. Coupled with questionable management strategies in the aftermath of the FSS Skłodowska’s destruction, the Universal Council sees the need behind a constructive reevaluation of the Task Force. | |||
This brings me to a pressing piece of news that threatens the delicate prospects of fostering stronger cooperation in the face of adversity among the Factions. Ivona Craine’s unannounced arrival has surprised not just us on the Council, but has raised the hair on the backs of the Union, Federation, and even the Empire itself. | |||
It is no secret to anyone that this is highly unusual, given the fact that notice of her “official” visit was provided to the Council only after her presence became known to us. I do not go as far as to say her intentions are in opposition to the Empire, as some might suggest. The internal workings of the Emperor’s mind have always been of a speculative nature, and considering Ivona’s status with the Emperor, it is not beyond the realm of possibility that her visit is indeed sanctioned. The tumult in the Empire has certainly kept His Excellency busy of late. | |||
The council has called for a vote on Ivona Craine’s presence on Mímir to clarify the situation and bring swift resolution to an already heated situation. Your Faction representatives will address the finer details presently. | |||
For further details, consult your faction story channel. | |||
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Federation Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | <div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Federation Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | ||
''' | '''A Foxen-Hound Hunt''' | ||
''Lina Khairn-Dwyer, Chief Mímir Correspondent, Takeyon Reports'' | |||
Folks, I don’t know what to tell you. Since my rotation on the Tonocom flagship The Merchant Prince began, I have seen Tonocom’s forces easily quadruple around Mímir. I’m seeing slick new ships just off TANUS Robotiks’ production lines, kindly supplied with advanced autonomous drone tech developed by Chief Engineer Anders herself. Despite the daunting size of our fleet, vessels of the Union and Federation have chosen to disregard Dr. Barnhardt’s order to halt while results of the investigation are completed. The temperature out here is running a little bit high, with more and more Fed personnel complaining of an itchy trigger finger–as our Union neighbors might say, “Ain’t no cure for that,” folks! | |||
Things are not looking too hot for peace right now…which is why this show’s head honchos have come together to try and work something more sustainable out. Whatever dance’s going on with the Empire and the Union, we can’t have that threatening what should be on the forefront of everyone’s minds–cracking that toughest nut of all, safe Einsen Bridge travel. But since it’s obvious our partners are too distracted in some bizarre foxen-hound hunt, Donel Gladson, President Adonis, and Dr. Barnhardt have put their heads together to come up with a solution. This is where things get interesting, because while Mr. Gladson wants the Federation to host a peace summit on the surface of Mímir, Dr. Barnhard demands a message be sent that if any more Union and Imperial ships enter Mimir’s space unpermitted, Federation ships will open fire. | |||
Let me tell you, folks, these two are not on the best terms right now. They have, however, agreed to be bound by Madame Adonis’s tie-breaking vote. Here’s where you all come in: President Adonis has refused to side with either, deciding instead to give her voice to the Federation’s citizens. Should the Federation host a peace summit in an act of goodwill towards its neighbors or should we put our foot down and make sure the other factions know we’ve got teeth just as sharp as theirs. Hell, sharper. | |||
Now, I know some of you have had reason to worry lately. I can hardly stop checking my Nexus overlay in the middle of the night myself. It’s hard to get out of the sense of doom and gloom that pervades everything lately–but you know as well as I do that, the only way to change our situation is by exercising our Fed-given right to vote! | |||
And don’t forget to tune in later to catch Takeyon’s retrospective look at one of the Federation’s hottest careers: The Merchant Prince’s very own commander in chief, Tonocom CEO Donel Gladson! | |||
</div></div> | </div></div> | ||
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Empire Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | <div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Empire Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | ||
''' | '''The Imperator’s Grace Shall Go With Her''' | ||
''Through the grace of His Excellency The Imperator, House Etruscus.'' | |||
Transmission from Venthe Etruscus | |||
Subjects of the Empire, | |||
As provocative as the news of late have been, all Houses atop this great Empire work for the glory of all, and all work for the glory of the Empire. The tragedy of the science vessel FSS Skłodowska’s, which could have been avoided if Imperial advice was heeded, subsequent censoring of the aftermath, and revelations of Federation cover-ups have tried the patience of His Grace, may he outlive the stars. In his everlasting wisdom, he has sent his own granddaughter, Ivona Craine, to clear the muddying waters around Mímir and reinforce our interests there. | |||
Regardless of what tumult our great Empire has seen of late, Ivona’s life is one of service in glory to the Empire and her loyalty has never been in doubt. Therefore, again in His great wisdom, support more becoming of Ivona Craine’s status is required. The Minister of Security has been the loudest among us, insisting that he be allowed to escort the progeny of the Emperor. The Warmaster is filled with pride and zeal for all Imperial endeavors seeing the youth of the Empire take such strong strides into a situation that has gone without significant Imperial influence for long enough. | |||
The Ministry of Knowledge was quick to follow up the Security Minister’s fiery offer with an equally impassioned, yet calmer stance. Their message is as follows: | |||
Tensions are unnecessarily high, and for all our power and history and honor, it is in no one’s interest to stoke the fires of conflict that might lead to war. Surely the Emperor sees this and wishes to strengthen the message sent by Ivona’s sanctioned presence on Mímir by sending the head of a Ministry that knows all and can advise on all things. There is no need for a sledgehammer when a simple key will open doors. | |||
Through the light of His Excellency, the vote is put to you. Who should escort our brave Ivona on Mímir: Minister of Security, Hakon Va-Halet or Minister of Knowledge, Mathias Voden? | |||
Your choice is the Emperor’s choice. Be not misled by any other light. | |||
Imperium superet astra. | Imperium superet astra. | ||
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<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Union Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | <div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Union Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | ||
''' | '''Looks Like We See Eye to Eye''' | ||
Old Mother here, my fellow Unionists. | |||
This whole Ivona Craine business has stirred up a hell of a bee’s nest. Asylum or no asylum, I think we all know why she’s left Imperial space without tellin’ anyone. I’ve lived too long in the shadow of conflict sittin’ here on the ass-end of Union space with the Federation peeking over our walls to not know when something smells funny. Where you are says a lot about a person or group and what they intend. If Ivona Craine is on Mimir, you can bet good steel to gears that woman ain’t there on official business. | |||
Imagine, the commander of the Imperial Third Fleet comin’ over to the Union and embracin’ our creed. There’s no better way to live a life than in service to others. She’d bring a wealth of information that couldn’t be negotiated for even by Federation lawyers! Some are sayin’ she’d be a hell of a bargainin’ piece against the Empire if we can get her. And ya know what? I bet we can. She brought in Montez Lycanis and wrecked his tiny fleet faster than the Bastion can charge its alien technology for a jump. Maybe, but that ain’t the Union way. She’d be one of us, and I’d welcome her into the fold, Empire be damned. | |||
Now, the Empire’s Minister of Trust has sent over some transmissions stating in pompous and shitty Imperial fashion that granting asylum to ANY Imperial citizen will be met with “unfavorable consequences.” I’d have wiped my backside with the words if they’d been written on something physical. I’m not one for fightin’ when it can be avoided, but I can tell you this, Venthe Etruscus ain’t the man who’s gonna tell the Union what it can and can’t do. I have hope you all see that to be the case and will let him know what we really think of him and his threats. | |||
Our choice is this: We tell the Empire to shove it because Ivona Craine will be under Union protection, or emphasize asylum as a fundamental human right and bring their power mongering to heel without stoking any more fires. | |||
Heads held high. | |||
Sethra Goodrun | |||
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''' | '''Voting Results''' | ||
''' | '''Votes on a multitude of issues on and around Mímir.''' | ||
'' | ''Transgalactic report 76.1.513, Trice Chavos, Universal Council''<br> | ||
The Universal Council continues to call for peace and sound logic among the factions. The results are as follows: | |||
''' | '''Empire:'''<br> | ||
''Minister of Security -'' '''61.78% Imperial favor'''<br> | |||
''Minister of Knowledge -'' '''38.22% Imperial favor'''<br> | |||
'''Federation:'''<br> | |||
''Host a peace summit -'' '''58.21% of the votes'''<br> | |||
''Send out a final warning -'' '''41.79% of the votes'''<br> | |||
'' | |||
'' | |||
'''Union:'''<br> | |||
''Compassion versus strength -'' '''61.97% of the votes'''<br> | |||
''Strength against strength -'' '''38.03% of the votes'''<br> | |||
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''' | '''Speak Peace but Carry a Big Delivery of Advanced Drone Fighters'''<br> | ||
''Ninyo Kovero, Foreign Correspondent and Columnist - Core Temperature, A Novum Auxiliary'' | |||
Ninyo Kovero, | |||
Hot take here, Explorers. | |||
Annoying pockets of lobbyists have recently succeeded in partially hijacking Democracy, though not this time around. Thank Sol. Imagine if the vote had been to give a last warning shot up some Empire or Union nose? We’d likely be reporting on a build up to war. Luckily, the temperature has leveled off for a moment as the vote went entirely in the opposite direction to hold a peace summit. Having four times as many ships and a dizzying number of new Tonocom drones stretching around Mímir didn’t hurt matters either. Checkmate! | |||
And not a moment after you goal-oriented Explorers voted for reason over brute strength, most uptight media outlets received reports of a massive Union fleet on it’s way to Mímir. I’m not worried since we can just point our guns at each other and talk like civilized people. I’m feelin some tension between the Union and Empire about Ivona Craine seeking asylum. Not quite sure why she would choose the Union, to be honest. If she rolls like that, she’d be a natural on the upper rungs of the good ole’ corporate fast track to success. But she probably wouldn’t want to start at the bottom and have to work her way up like we all do. Sounds like she’s A LOT. | |||
All in all, we are looking forward to the fruits of the peace summit. Many of us, as well as many of you, will be coming right here, to Core Temperature to enjoy a peek at the wining and dining that accompanies these summits. Difficult to get your hands on finer real cuisine while going nowhere around the orbit of Mímir, let me tell you. | |||
You can check out coverage of all the event highlights, from summit speakers to dinner menus here at Core Temperature, the coolest place for the hottest in news and entertainment. | |||
</div></div> | </div></div> | ||
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Empire Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | <div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Empire Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | ||
''' | '''His Grace's Granddaughter...Priceless. Part 1'''<br> | ||
''From the Chambers of the Ministry of Wealth'' | |||
Greetings to His Excellency, Imperator Solas, who is the Empire in its entirety, and to who we live and breathe in unwavering awe. | |||
Every second given to me by this great Empire I spend on this message to you, faithful citizens. I consider it an investment in the light of His vision. Being the only woman voted into a Ministerial position on merit and merit alone, it is the wisdom of His Grace that implores me now to add a rare but necessary investment of brevity into Lord Va-Halet’s strategy in regard to Ivona Craine. | |||
Whether by word or by sword, the respected Minister of the great House Va-Halet will certainly not forget the value that both Ivona Craine and Mímir have to the Empire’s future. While on his mission to provide support to His Grace’s granddaughter, I provide sound advice. Any knee-jerk moves born in the rightly placed passion for the Empire can, even at the best of times, effect the Imperial Ministry of Wealth’s bottom line in not such a glorious fashion. | |||
Forgive me, but a woman must sometimes be blunt where delicate language might fall short of benefitting the Empire. As debt is for slaves, I cannot imagine a situation where the good Lord Va-Halet would bring unnecessary expenditures to His Excellency’s Ministry while providing support to the Commander of the Third Fleet. War is an expensive endeavor and, though it can be lucrative under favorable conditions, would be ill-timed presently. | |||
'''His Grace's Granddaughter...Priceless. Part 2'''<br> | |||
The Ministry of Wealth runs on the simple belief that when we are close to His Grace’s abundant light, one cannot help but turn to it and add whatever one can give. Ivona Craine was born in the light, and is made of the light, and if any doubt be upon you, good citizens of the Empire, that she isn’t worthy of support, perhaps you have forgotten something valuable. Imperator Solas himself would have such unfaithful and unworthy individuals hanged in the shining rays of His wisdom by their ragged and unfaithful feet until dead. | |||
Nona Levidis, Minister of Wealth | |||
Nona Levidis, | |||
Sit imperium superstes astra. | Sit imperium superstes astra. | ||
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''' | '''All for One'''<br> | ||
''Kase Marshall, Steward of Expression'' | |||
''Kase Marshall, | |||
Well works to you, brothers and sisters. My job gives me the rare opportunity to speak to some interesting individuals and relate what they say to you. I’ve spoken to, or had a quick word with, the elusive man of few words himself, Faceless Emmet. | |||
Basically, he said the Commander of the Empire’s Third Fleet isn’t weak, but in this case, doesn’t have the strength to defend herself. In seeking asylum, which is harder than you might think, she acknowledges a fundamental human right that is non-existant for most in the Empireis. Walking away from the her House means she isn’t safe for long. Suffice it to say, Ivona has come for help and is gonna get it. Personally, I’m looking forward to hearing what she has to say. | |||
Damn, almost forgot. Emmet mentioned something very interesting before leaving with his masked second in command. He said, “I don’t imagine her path to seek asylum was a smooth or swift one. I have heard from others in the Empire who wish to break free cannot even do so with access to considerable resources, and that after taking the first step away from the Empire, the only alternative to success is a horrible and very public death.” Emmet finished with expressin that that’s all we need to know about it. | |||
I bet. Let’s not forget that her grandfather is Solas Craine and has proven himself to be an oppressive murderous rat bastard and obfuscator of any truth that isn’t his own. I’d like to see the look on his face when Ivona is safely in Union space as we clearly, express a collective, “get fucked” his way in the name of human rights. | |||
Heads held high. | |||
</div></div> | </div></div> | ||
= Capitolo 14.1: Buoni Samaritani? = | = Capitolo 14.1: Buoni Samaritani? = | ||
'' | ===At the Gates=== | ||
''Transgalactic report 01.1.513, Admiral Lyra Montaine, Universal Council'' | |||
Faction citizens, subjects, members, | |||
I wish I could greet you with better news for the New Year, but it was not meant to be. I’ll jump right into it: Tensions around Mímir have reached new heights. While Minister Va-Halet has been held up in transit, a fleet of Union vessels has arrived at the edge of IEB space. They entered Mímir space without any need to heed the Federation perimeter since the Federation itself has called for a peace summit. | |||
The Union has stringently defended the fleet’s appearance, demanding its intentions are peaceful, and its personnel wholly scientific, despite the rumors that Faceless Emmett, the Steward of Security, is these ships’ commander. They have repeated that the ships–at least three of which are ancient dreadnoughts–hold no military capabilities at present. | |||
The Federation expected a small number of Union dignitaries to join the peace summit, not an entire flotilla–though they have held their fingers firmly off any triggers thanks to the prior Federation decision, they are nonetheless nervous to face another faction’s fleet like this. Faced with messages to back down, Union channels fiercely deny they have any hostile intentions in mind, a statement the Federation has contested through official diplomatic channels. President Adonis has stated that the Federation is willing to continue its work with the Union, but only if it can be given access to inspect the Union’s vessels. Response to this offer has yet to be put on the table. | |||
The Empire’s response has been more muted. Warmaster Hakon has demanded he inspect the dreadnought armaments. People close to Minister Hakon have given the Council reason to believe this reflects his personal interests more than the Empire’s official position. | |||
The Universal Council will continue to monitor the situation closely and report any developments as they occur. | |||
For further details, consult your faction story channel. | |||
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Federation Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | |||
'''A Moment’s Stupefaction''' | |||
''Lina Khairn-Dwyer, Chief Mímir Correspondent, Takeyon Reports'' | |||
''' | |||
''Lina Khairn-Dwyer, | |||
Folks, if you thought my last report painted a bleak picture, just you wait to see the face of a Federation officer when they get notified a Union armada is parked out front without so much as a call beforehand. I was interviewing Squad Leader Pierre Orran in the mess hall just this morning, feeling out the mood that has gradually overtaken the fleet since the last vote, and you can bet all my work went right in the trash when the Merchant Prince’s comms called all personnel to battle stations at the sudden appearance of scores of Union ships. The look of stupefaction on Orran was reflected across all our faces, I’m sure. It must have continued for a heartbeat, maybe two for everyone but me. Surprise or doubt on Orran’s face was quickly replaced by a hardened resolve no one’s better in instilling than our Corp instructors. | |||
Feverish action after–steady and well-practiced. A credit to the elite professionals that make our Federation military the backbone that holds our identity together. It’s funny but I couldn’t tell you what I was doing for a good half an hour after, not until it became crystal clear the Union ships were just standing there, still as can be, as if taunting every single one of us onboard, laughing in the face of our proposed peace conference. We could have taken them, even with their element of the surprise–I didn’t need a semester in military tactics at Guinn Institute to figure that out, just a look at the conditions of some of those ships–but that first moment of fear, I don’t know how all those soldiers overcame it as quick as they did. That’s Federation pilots and marines for you. Tonocom sure knows how to make them. | |||
No attack followed. You know this much. The Union’s hails have offered unsolicited scientific and investigatory aid, as well as repeated insistence that this is the Union’s contribution to the peace conference–despite the fact that the size of it is directly in conflict with Fed specifications. It is in the Federation’s hands to choose how we respond to this provocation: do we condemn the Union’s behavior for the cheap ploy it is, or do we play along and accept this “delegation” in yet another attempt to safeguard the MIEB Task-Force’s cohesion? That is, naturally, if the Union accepts to have Federation investigators corroborate their claims of peaceful intentions. | |||
Remember, folks, it’s your voice that counts–make sure it’s heard! | |||
</div></div> | </div></div> | ||
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Empire Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | <div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Empire Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | ||
''' | '''The Honorable Choice''' | ||
''Through the grace of His Excellency The Imperator, Minister Morell.'' | |||
Subjects of the Empire, | |||
My role as Minister of Honor is not an easy one to navigate. I give tirelessly in service to the Emperor, knowing all the meanwhile I may make an error in judgment. A high position of governance–as high as mine–does not allow for errors, Imperials. Not a one. | |||
The problem before me is as follows: The Federation must be reminded, every single cycle, that it is violating the spirit of the Faction agreement over Mímir. The Empire’s decision to cut its ties to the MIEB Task-Force was but one reminder; the fact that, as I speak, Minister Hakon Va-Halet is disembarking on a Union vessel floating around Mímir rather than on The Merchant Prince, is another. The appearance of the Union’s fleet, whatever the true reason behind it, also serves to this end. In this, they have proven useful to the Empire. | |||
Yet, there is no honor to the Union’s conduct. That is plain to all–no matter what they say, they seek to provoke with this surprise appearance of theirs. To what end, time will tell; I would not be surprised if they haven’t quite figured that out for themselves; the Union brain takes a good long while to catch up with the actions of its undisciplined body. | |||
The choice before the Empire is the following: Shall we support the Union in this stunt of theirs, or shall we rebuke them–returning in kind the blow they delivered when my colleague, Minister Venthe Etruscus, provided the Imperial light of truth to the galaxy? | |||
Choose wisely–your Emperor demands it. | |||
Imperium superet astra. | Imperium superet astra. | ||
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''' | '''An Act of Goodwill''' | ||
My brothers and sisters, | |||
How the Federation overreacts to yet another show of goodwill is beyond me. We of the Union recognize our fellow human’s struggles. The willingness of so many to go to their aid out of nothing so much as the goodness in their hearts, to offer scientific expertise on a number of matters that obviously have continued to baffle the Federation–and to be treated as criminals, a bunch of pirates who have no purpose beyond loot is as offensive to me as it is to any of you. | |||
The Empire has asked if this is my doing, if this mission is ‘sanctified’ by the Vox. The Federation’s questions are similar in line, but more forceful in their tone. What a funny concept they have, either way. As if I, your humble Speaker, would have the authority to send fleets at the snap of a finger. I could have asked, and the Vox could have sent out the call–but why would we? When it’s in the Union’s nature to be free, for our communities to recognize the need for help and offer this help on their own? | |||
The Federation doubts our peaceful intentions. The Empire’s weary curiosity is, for once, a reaction we can at least understand. Despite recent communiques from high-level members of their government, the presence of Minister Voden/Warmaster Hakon is not without its opportunity for the exchange of useful intelligence between our two sides. I say we show them all–give free reign to their inspectors, their ambassadors and dignitaries. Let them aboard, invite them in, feed ‘em, water ‘em, show ‘em Union hospitality. No, not that kind of hospitality. You all know I mean for you to treat them like guests–right? | |||
There is another path we can take: if the Federation does not wish to believe us, if they spit once more on our goodwill and willingness to aid them in what has become a bloated investigation with no end in sight…we can simply leave. | |||
What will it be? The people’s voice will guide our hand in this–as it always has. | |||
Aish | Aish | ||
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''' | '''Voting Results''' | ||
''' | '''Cacophonous''' | ||
'' | ''Transgalactic report 5.1.513, Admiral Lyra Montaine, Universal Council''<br> | ||
The Universal Council calls for calm in this time of deepening crisis. The results are as follows: | |||
''' | '''Empire:'''<br> | ||
''Support the Union -'' '''65.7% Imperial favor'''<br> | |||
''Rebuke the Union -'' '''34.3% Imperial favor'''<br> | |||
'' | '''Federation:'''<br> | ||
''Condemn the Union’s behavior -'' '''59.81% of the votes'''<br> | |||
''Accept the Union’s aid -'' '''40.19% of the votes'''<br> | |||
'' | '''Union:'''<br> | ||
''Give investigators access to Union vessels -'' '''75.26% of the votes'''<br> | |||
''Leave the system -'' '''24.74% of the votes'''<br> | |||
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''' | '''A Drop of Dissent'''<br> | ||
''Blagoi Shulka, Ignis Correspondent, Novum News'' | |||
''Blagoi Shulka, | |||
Have these Union dupes no shame? Have they no basic, common decency? Slithering into the system like thieves in the night, all but breaking every law of hospitality of what should be a peaceful conference between equals? Oh, this is rich! It’s good, that’s what it is! If the Union thinks they can keep playing the poor victim card after they pull a stunt like this–they better think again. And if they try, oh, if they try–it’ll be Blagoi Shulka who reminds them, and all you folks at home. | |||
I hope they try something. As every single one of you is my witness, I hope they do. The Union needs to be put in its rightful place; you ask me, that place is the ditch and nowhere else. At least the Federation speaks as one when we rebuke them for this foolish posturing. | |||
As to our fearless leaders, I have a message to you. To all you Presidents, CEOs, spooks, and military schmucks: don’t be too rigid with that trigger finger. I’m as happy as anyone to bankroll the hundred k’s worth of ammunition it’ll take to sink those Union rust-buckets. And while I’m at it…release the damned Tragedy report already, will ya? | |||
Regardless…let’s see how this plays out, shall we? | |||
</div></div> | </div></div> | ||
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Empire Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | <div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Empire Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | ||
''' | '''Not a Single Bullet'''<br> | ||
''Warmaster Hakon Va-Halet'' | |||
'' | |||
I tell you, Imperials, but these ancient rust-buckets are something else. We don’t make ‘em like this anymore, and for good reason. Walking into the salvaged heart of a Reverence-class dreadnought though, few things compare. The Union has made a mess of it with their gaudy “art”, graffiti in a variety of styles that would make your head hurt if you looked at them too long. Still, they couldn’t take away from the majesty of the old girl–and they showed me respect as I came onboard. I did as the Emperor and the Empire have bid me, and offered up the Empire’s support for this crusade of theirs. | |||
Union folk might be piss-poor and their hygiene standards leave much to desire, but there’s something warm about the genuine human joy they showed when I made their ship captains aware of the Empire’s position. They even invited me to observe the Federation’s inspection. Grumbling lot that the members of the Fed mission were, I did it…and not just because I was hoping to see one of those first-gen Razorclaw gatling guns. | |||
What has become crystal clear is that the Union does not have a single missile, not a single bullet, in any of their guns or ammo depots onboard the fleet. My retinue and I made sure to check not only what the Union wanted us to see but also what they patently didn’t. | |||
Strange as it is, these Union people genuinely believed they would show up at the doorstep of a Federation flotilla and be welcomed with open arms, their offer of aid accepted without question. | |||
The naivete…It makes you laugh, doesn’t it? More at the Union than with them, but it’s a start. | |||
Sit imperium superstes astra. | Sit imperium superstes astra. | ||
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''' | '''Hypotheticals'''<br> | ||
''Faceless Emmet, Steward of Safety'' | |||
No matter the good will we show the Federation, they will always doubt us, always fear us, always misunderstand us. This latest vote has made one thing clear: we will always be ready to aid our fellow humans, no matter what lies may be spewed forth about our motives. As they rebuke us, so we open our arms that they may see–ours is a just cause, and we need no bullets to speak for us. | |||
And speaking of aid… | |||
What if I told you that, while the Federation and Union fleets had their misunderstandings aired out, a SNTNL shuttle equipped with advanced stealth-tech landed on Mímir? What if, during the performance of the SNTNL folk’s farewell ritual for Hayden Blunt, a woman showed up, Imperial-born but more than a little interested in learning about the Union’s ways? | |||
What if she called on the law of shared warmth? You couldn’t well blame the SNTNLs for inviting her on-board, could you? Could anyone? | |||
Food for thought, brothers and sisters. | |||
Food for thought. | |||
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= Capitolo 15.1: Aikawarazu = | = Capitolo 15.1: Aikawarazu = | ||
=== | ===Back to the Lesson at Hand=== | ||
'' | ''Transgalactic report 14.1.513, Trice Chavos, Universal Council'' | ||
The following is a transcript of the briefing on the relevant vote for those involved in the Explorer program: | |||
…wild swings in which way each Faction’s leadership is facing every few weeks. Thanks to the open discourse the Federation’s peace summit offered, it’s clear that the Factions agree with this assessment. | |||
The potential for inward-looking votes to breed miscommunication and the heightening of tensions is too great. Thus, it is this council’s determination, within its rights granted to us by the Empire, Federation, and Union, that voting on critical issues once again be administered using a two-thirds majority system. All present already understand this system, but it must be said that every Faction will vote on the exact same issue using the designated Faction channels. The Core Systems will once again march together down the selected path via majority vote, and not a second too soon. | |||
There are very few individuals in the Core Systems who would merit direct Council intervention; however Ivona Craine, who currently still holds a seat in these chambers, is certainly one of them. Ivona has requested we officially ratify her asylum and therefore protection from the Empire. She offers to us a message she claims is directly from the Oracle and concerns the fate of The Arbiter. She will provide us with this message only if she receives what she has every right to request. Even though we have no way of proving if this message is really from the Oracle or not, the Council notes that Ivona Craine has not once proven herself a liar. We move to continue taking her at her word. | |||
Complicating the issues is her presence aboard Faceless Emmet’s ship, The Unbroken. Upon coming out of stealth, he sent out a general hail to all in orbit around Mímir stating: | |||
“Our fleet is indeed unarmed, and regardless of Federation condemnation of our goodwill and rejection of assistance, inspections have proven Union words to be honest and true. Along with the rare but welcome Imperial acknowledgment of our intentions, we have met the standards put to us by the Faction vote. In addition, Ivona Craine, having been granted asylum by the Vox, will be escorted to Union space. Do not attempt to stop us. Our collective voice need say no more.” | |||
Minister Va-Halet has contacted us repeatedly and requested we formally reject these ridiculous attempts at stealing Ivona Craine away from the Empire, where she belongs. He has offered us tangible research on advanced plating that he assures us is far into active experimentation and will be vital to EB travel. If we do not, Va-Halet threatens that the data will be kept for exclusive Imperial use. The Minister was quick to add that the Empire had already planned to be forthcoming with this information. Whether we choose to believe his intent, he added that such extraordinary maneuvering by the Union has prompted him to use everything at his disposal…short of lethal force. | |||
For further details, consult your faction story channel where your vote will be recorded. | |||
''Lina Khairn-Dwyer, | <div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Federation Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | ||
'''A Key Investment''' | |||
''Lina Khairn-Dwyer, Chief Mímir Correspondent, Takeyon Reports'' | |||
Good Sol there, Explorers! | |||
If it wasn’t already hot around Mimir, man, things just pitched up quick. After Union vessels were inspected, all seemed fine with the galaxy momentarily. Then the elephant in the room over the last few weeks finally stood up and made its presence known. Ivona Craine is officially requesting that the Universal Council recognize her asylum to the Union. It wasn’t long after when the Imperial vessels that accompanied Minister Va-Halet, A.K.A Warmaster Hakon, began repositioning themselves into a defensive formation. | |||
What a mess. Just goes to show what can happen when healthy corporate oversight is abandoned for mob rule or the rule of one. I have it on good authority from Tonocom Defense that measures are being put into place to ensure stealth ships will not be able to slip past Federation scanners with zero trace. The Union stealth tech is incredible, but not infallible, I’m sure. After listening to Tonocom, I believe it. | |||
So what say you, Explorers? Do we care more for plating that may or may not benefit our stalled progress towards EB travel or more about the fate of an entire crew of Universal Council officers? I know the Oracle is a legit artifact, but it’s so mysterious. Who can tell whether a message is from the Oracle or not? Especially if we aren’t there, sitting in front of it ourselves, chanting or drinking blood or whatever the Emperor does to get it to work. | |||
I do like that we are reverting to the previous way of voting being done because look at us now, sitting here with nothing but advantages to choose from. If we think in terms of what choice presents the most value, I could make the argument for ship plating tech. But what can an Imperial scientist or alchemist or smith do that a well-trained organization built from the ground up can’t? If it’s not Ronaen-related, and you can’t stick it through someone’s chest, I argue that Federation scientists can hold their own. | |||
I remember the story about The Arbiter. It was one of the first pieces I worked on. The team was amazing. But the story only had two possible endings, either they disappeared and survived, or they didn’t. With so many deaths since then, it’s hard to really put that event into perspective, but I can say this: if they survived and there’s a way to contact them, that’s a lot of little miracles mixed with one or two huge ones. But imagine if they did survive and the Oracle actually knew something about them. The knowledge they might provide could make EB travel a reality! | |||
Either way, it seems like not enough concrete information for a Federation citizen to stand on in terms of a decision making. But, we all need to consider what’s there and make a choice, regardless. | |||
Place your votes, Explorers, because they count now more than ever. | |||
</div></div> | </div></div> | ||
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Empire Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | <div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Empire Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | ||
''' | '''A Gracious Offer''' | ||
''Through the grace of His Excellency The Imperator, Minister Va-Halet.'' | |||
Subjects of the Empire, | |||
The Emperor’s Warmaster does not speak when it is unnecessary. I am here to inform the citizens of the Empire that His Grace’s kindness has been thrown back in our face. Right now, the Commander of the Third Fleet, Ivona Craine, is aboard a Union vessel. A Union vessel that just recently and dubiously appeared out of stealth after feelings were high and goodwill was exchanged between our two factions. | |||
Where did goodwill towards the Union get us? It dashed to the mud our Imperator’s good grace and placed an imperceptible fog over our unwavering vigilance. Never again will I allow this to happen. I have made our Empire’s demand clear to the Universal Council. Ivona Craine will be returned immediately to Imperial protection, where she belongs. They understand that there should be no hesitation in denouncing this ridiculous idea of asylum. | |||
If His Grace’s intent was not already more than enough to assist the Council into correct action, we have also offered what will amount a boon to all the factions. Such is His will, may he outlive the stars. The research done in the aftermath of the tragic Skłodowska explosion, which could have been prevented if the MIEB Task Force had listened more to us, will provide the Universal Council’s efforts will state of the art hull-plating technology we believe will be crucial to EB travel. | |||
I doubt the Council will let such an offering slip through their fingers, but a vote is required nonetheless. | |||
Imperium superet astra. | Imperium superet astra. | ||
[Secondary Transmission Inbound] | |||
Through the grace of His Excellency The Imperator, Minister Etruscus. | |||
Subjects of the Empire, | |||
Imperator Solas is the Empire, and anything that may benefit the Empire is sought after by His Grace. Minister Va-Halet’s fiery rhetoric is commendable in that it reflects his undying passion to benefit the Empire. His track record speaks for itself, and long may he serve our Emperor and his storied House. | |||
I bring the light of context to our “Warmaster’s” message in that we will not cease in our condemnation of the Union’s attempt at stealing Ivona Craine away from the Empire. War is not our goal. War does not benefit His Grace at this time. I am sure that whatever methods the Union is employing, Ivona is ever the wiser for them. | |||
We will have her off that rusty excuse for a ship soon enough. | |||
Imperium superet astra. | Imperium superet astra. | ||
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'''Our Decision Won’t be Denied''' | |||
To my brothers and sisters. | |||
After proving our intent to both the Federation and Empire, when we shouldn’t have needed to, we get this “Warmaster” pokin’ his ships up our rear-ends as we rightfully turn to leave. How much more do we have to do to get the respect we deserve out here, amongst the stars? Well, Faceless Emmet is at the helm of this one and there’s no one better at maneuvering in ways that can’t be seen. I spoke with him before he left. He didn’t say much but that said a lot. We all share in the plots and plans of the Union, but that man operates in places that the rest of us don’t have to. Yet every time, he’s doin what needs to be done for every one of us. | |||
Ivona Craine. | Ivona Craine. The treasure trove of knowledge and tactical expertise that she will bring us is priceless. I just hope the Council sees the straight and clear logic of it like we all do. The Vox already granted her asylum, so she’s good to go as far as I’m concerned. But she knows her way around that Universal Council floor, so her asking is a tactician’s way of preventing the trigger happy Lord Va-Halet from stepping into an intergalactic minefield. | ||
Speaking of which, leave it to the Empire to hoard something and only offer it up for something in return. They were with us in the MIEB Task Force and still worked to undermine the collective good. It’s that damned Emperor, I tell ya. The cult to that man, if we can still call him that, is the worst thing to happen to this Galaxy since the destruction of Sol. At least the Universal Council is back on track and can bring us all down the same path again. | |||
The choice for us is obvious, I’d think, but that’s why we take the vote, isn’t it? Ivona here in Union space or returned to the Empire for some ship plating tech. My heart goes out to the families of the crew on The Arbiter, but that was a while ago and a lot has happened since. I guess we will see, brothers and sisters. | |||
Heads held high. | |||
Mongrel Lars | Mongrel Lars | ||
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''' | '''Voting Results''' | ||
''' | '''Consequences''' | ||
'' | ''Transgalactic report 17.1.513, Moira Craine, Universal Council''<br> | ||
The final vote is in favor of recognizing Ivona Craine’s asylum. Minister Va-Halet has been contacted and ordered to not interfere with the Union’s escort. Council ships have been ordered to Mimir to receive the Oracle’s message concerning the fate of The Arbiter per Ivona’s request. | |||
She was unclear why person to person transmission of the information is necessary but urges the Council to hurry. | |||
Recognize Ivona's asylum - '''3 (Empire, Federation, Union)'''<br> | |||
Reject Ivona's asylum - '''0 ()'''<br> | |||
'''Empire:'''<br> | |||
''Recognize asylum -'' '''61.3% Imperial favor'''<br> | |||
''Reject asylum -'' '''38.7% Imperial favor'''<br> | |||
''' | '''Federation:'''<br> | ||
''Recognize asylum -'' '''72.73% of the votes'''<br> | |||
''Reject asylum -'' '''27.27% of the votes'''<br> | |||
'' | |||
'' | |||
'''Union:'''<br> | |||
''Recognize asylum -'' '''69.5% of the votes'''<br> | |||
''Reject asylum -'' '''30.5% of the votes'''<br> | |||
</div> | </div> | ||
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''' | '''One Seat Sits Empty'''<br> | ||
''Inse Jokuan, Foreign Affairs Report – Nova Times, a Novaros Division'' | |||
''Inse Jokuan, | |||
Good Sol, Explorers! | |||
Now that Ivona Craine is in Union space, her Council seat is up for grabs but no one has come forth and the Empire hasn’t volunteered anyone yet. This adds more questions than answers to her highly unlikely request. But while Ivona has her officially recognized asylum and is no doubt enjoying the same food as the others around her, I’ve got to talk about the advanced hull-plating tech that we lost out on. Word is, those in orbit around Mímir would’ve loved to have a little bit more insurance integrated into Federation hulls. More so now with the implications of the Oracle’s message. | |||
Ivona Craine, | Ivona Craine, who apparently can be believed, says that the Universal Council crew of The Arbiter is alive, but their end draws near. I’ve had the opportunity to interview captain Kal Haden before his ship was thought destroyed by the EB. He was gruff and curt and visibly annoyed that I was asking him questions at all. The aura around that man was palpable. Even though he’s an Imperial, I’d say there’s no one I’d rather have commanding a ship, but what do I know. | ||
In addition to the cryptic message brought to the Council by Ivona, a very faint anomalous signal has been detected coming from the EB near Mímir. I’ve been assured there is no cause for alarm yet since this signal is fainter than we have ever seen. While it is also stable, unlike previous signals, it has not affected the NEXUS network on a wide scale and is currently being studied by the Federation remnants of the MIEB Task Force. | |||
Never a dull moment on the edge of known space! | |||
</div></div> | </div></div> | ||
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Empire Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | <div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Empire Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | ||
''' | '''His Will is Set in Motion'''<br> | ||
''From the chambers of the Ministry of Knowledge'' | |||
Subjects of the Empire, | |||
Once again, your wise vote both furthers His Grace’s plan and keeps a scientifically advanced defensive asset in Imperial hands. A lesser Faction would have pined for Ivona Craine’s return like some homesick dog mewling at the back of a cave, caked in mud and eyes dull with surrender. But not you. You saw through Ivona’s surface level attempt at running away from the Empire, and now we stand poised to reap the rewards of her exodus. No more proof of this is needed then in her carrying of the Oracle’s message, for who else can give it but His Excellency? | |||
The message was one of little value to the other factions. So now we know the crew of The Arbiter is alive but their end draws near. The ship is captained by a son of House Haden who has either proven his worth in surviving an EB’s accelerated entropy proving others might have as well, or has brought honor to his house in death. Whether this message is for us to believe or not is not for us to question. We must always steel our minds and invite scrutiny upon our actions. | |||
We now keep ships in permanent orbit around Mímir but the Minister of Security has returned home and brings reports of an anomalous signal. This new signal is fainter than we have ever scanned. Currently, it is stable and shows no signs of being anything more than a curiosity to study. If there is anything to be concerned with, our own scientists will not fail to recognize it. They understand that the Emperor will not miss any further opportunities or sit idle and watch another tragedy happen. | |||
Mathias Voden, | Mathias Voden, Minister | ||
Sit imperium superstes astra. | Sit imperium superstes astra. | ||
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''' | '''A New Home'''<br> | ||
''Vox Assembly, The Bastion'' | |||
It was never in doubt, my brothers and sisters. Ivona Craine is home and is welcome to what the Empire could never provide her, common ground with those around her. Faceless Emmet did most of the heavy lifting in orienting her to life in the Union, and she is currently helping the Vox on a number of issues. One in particular involves rumors of violence against one of our oldest tribes that I hope turn out to be false. | |||
The message given to the Universal Council from the Oracle is cryptic to say the least: the Universal Council crew of The Arbiter is alive but their end draws near. Sera Varse would be the one to speak to about this, but she has done a fine job in hiding her whereabouts within the Union. | |||
Word has reached us from our scientists whose work benefited the now struggling MIEB Task Force. They say a new anomalous signal, though fainter then we have ever scanned, has been detected around Mímir. They assure me the signal is currently stable and so faint, that the phenomenon is likely temporary. Leave to our best and brightest to keep grinding while the other Factions sit around and wait to see what happens. | |||
Heads held high. | |||
Mongrel Lars | Mongrel Lars | ||
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= Capitolo 16.1: La calamita = | = Capitolo 16.1: La calamita = | ||
'' | ===Some Kind of Justice=== | ||
''Transgalactic report 26.1.513, Admiral Lyra Montaine, Universal Council'' | |||
Ivona Craine | Ivona Craine is now the purview of the Union, her asylum approved by the uniform voice of the Factions. The Universal Council wishes her well in this new chapter in her career–as our agents make sense of Ivona’s cryptic warnings around Mímir space, we of the Council will keep all of you apprised of future developments. | ||
The time has come to move onto other matters. Union Speaker Aish Fenix has brought an emergency situation to the attention of the Factions–it is the Universal Council’s purpose to report and adjudicate this tragedy. Here is her official address:<blockquote>Representatives on the Council, | |||
Faction citizens, subjects, members, | |||
I turn to you today not as Speaker of the Vox but as a daughter of Tribe Sunless. My people are proud laborers. We have worked the stone of a dozen asteroid belts across as many star systems, and have found beneath it precious metals that have served the interests of the Union, Federation, and Empire. No organized force is better than we are at this, no force more daring as we risk life and limb in the deep dark of space. | |||
Nine mining rings are at the center of the tribe’s culture and society. The smallest of these, Iron Chime, was attacked last night, countless of its inhabitants slaughtered. I will spare you the details–though there is ample video footage that can be viewed by those of you who have the stomach for it. The perpetrators attempted to hide their identities. They failed; they are butchers, after all. | |||
It’s the butchers of the Empire that came for my people. You hear me right–this is the work of an Imperial House, and the worst of them all: the Butchers of Plata, Neru-Gal. | |||
The daughter of the tribe in me wants to demand vengeance. And don’t get me wrong, the Union is more than capable of administering it on its own. Hells, Tribe Sunless is itching for a shot at the fuckers. But recent events have shown why we must overcome these baser instincts. Understand when I say this, my brothers and sisters in humanity–we must stop the cycle of violence and let justice prevail for the wounded and needlessly slaughtered people of my tribe. | |||
We turn to you in the hope that recent events have taught us to do better than the worst we’re capable of. Do not let this injustice stand.</blockquote>The Imperial representatives serving on this Council have corroborated Speaker Fenix’s statement. There is no question that the Iron Chime slaughter was perpetrated by warriors of the Imperial Neru-Gal House. Whether this attack was done in conjunction with the house’s leaders is not known at present. | |||
No rogue House may be allowed to operate at its whim, not when they would harm the peaceful members of another faction. This choice must be a show of the spirit of unity to which the factions have once more committed themselves. The choice before you is as follows: | |||
The Council’s resources can be made available towards providing humanitarian and economic aid to Tribe Sunless. Without this aid, the tribe will likely fail to meet its people’s needs and is threatened by dissolution in the hard times ahead. Meanwhile, House Neru-Gal will be investigated by Imperial authorities with what limited aid the UC can offer. Providing aid to Tribe Sunless would also allow them to fill in quotas of raw material for a new project helmed by the MIEB Task Force–that is no small incentive to keep in mind. | |||
Alternatively, the Council’s newly refocused resources can be used to punish House Neru-Gal. A punitive fleet may be sent to strike at this militaristic house. This, however, might be seen by many in the Empire as a continued policy of discrimination and curtailing of Imperial sovereignty in the face of galactic politics. | |||
The choice is in your hands. | |||
For further details, consult your faction story channel. | |||
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''' | '''Peace of Mind''' | ||
''The Presidential Suites, Second Sector Capital (Avaris)'' | |||
'' | |||
Fellow citizens of the Federation, | |||
Our faction has no Styggian horse in this fight. We stand to benefit one way or another—the weakening of one of the Empire’s military houses is a boon in itself, and Neru-Gal may well be the worst of the lot. Their history of internal violence speaks loudly enough.To see that spill out of the Empire’s domain…it would be easier to sleep at night, knowing Neru-Gal is incapable of perpetrating similar attacks across Federation space. | |||
The Federation also stands to benefit if the choice is made to aid the injured Union party. If the UC’s projections are to be believed, we would see Tribe Sunless’s ore deliveries to megacorps such as TANUS Robotiks and Xaomeng Dynamics continue after only a short few weeks. Imperial relations are still on rocky ground after their accusations as to the Federation’s culpability in recent galactic events. Our government can hardly count on trade channels with House Aurelian and the Ministry of Wealth to make up the difference in raw materials necessary for some of our manufacturers. | |||
That said, this is the free market. If some corporation or another cannot make the best of the situation the faction finds itself in, they deserve to be liquidated and their executives harshly punished. | |||
The Federation could choose to address a potential threat or a certain supply chain issue: both stand to benefit the Federation. Both stand to have some negative impact–which each and every one of you will weather. Whatever your choice, it will offer at least some of the Federation’s citizens peace of mind. | |||
Whatever you pick–make your voices heard. | |||
Signed, | |||
President Áurea Adonis | |||
</div></div> | </div></div> | ||
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Empire Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | <div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Empire Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | ||
'''A Nuanced View''' | |||
''Through the grace of His Excellency The Imperator, Minister Va-Halet.'' | |||
''From the office of the Minister of War'' | |||
Servants of the Empire, | |||
I am not surprised that the beasts of Neru-Gal have chosen now to strike. Their appetite has been whetted–like the rabid dogs they are, they have taken to snapping at the heels of their betters when the time is least opportune. Long before I took this post, I petitioned the Emperor to give me leave to dispose of these vile cultists who twist the Imperial Light, make a mockery of it. He is too fond of his pets; perhaps this incident will open his eyes to the necessity of putting Neru-Gal down once and for all. | |||
The Empire has little interest in making waves as we attempt to return from the brink of war. You will note that, unlike the Federation, the Empire is happy to admit when forces within it are culpable…and all too willing to punish them as befits the crime. It would be wise for the Universal Council to give me the mandate to lead a punitive expedition made of the joint forces of all three Factions against Neru-Gal. I will not stop at destroying a few military outposts, either–I will strike at the heart of their fiery world. Duty and honor demand as much. | |||
Pity the choice is not mine alone: my learned colleague, Mathias Voden, demanded, as his learned lot does, to “present a more nuanced view of the case”. I see no reason why anyone might need it, yet the old man has done me a service or two in the past. Here are his pretty, pretty words:<blockquote>While Hakon makes a fine case for violence (as he always does), it is worth considering that the Union’s nature might respond better to our standing behind their wounded tribe. The Union values compassion and we could choose to aid them by helping to make them whole. And with all that goes on, has there ever been a better time to offer a hand in camaraderie? This, too, will give the Ministry of Trust time to discover just who it was that directed the assault on Tribe Sunless within Neru-Gal. We can punish those directly responsible rather than the entirety of the house; and though I well understand Hakon’s disdain for Neru-Gal, they might be of use to the Empire still. | |||
Take that for what it’s worth, and make your voices heard, Imperials. | |||
- | - Warmaster Hakon Va-Halet</blockquote>Imperium superet astra. | ||
</div></div> | </div></div> | ||
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Union Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | <div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:40%; overflow:auto;"><div style="font-weight:normal;line-height:1.6;">Union Storyline</div><div class="mw-collapsible-content"> | ||
''' | '''A True Leader''' | ||
''Vox Assembly, The Bastion'' | |||
'' | |||
Members of the Union, | |||
As you might have gathered, Aish has left the Bastion to direct emergency aid efforts at Iron Chime–and with Ivona Craine in tow, too. Craine wishes to pay off the risk the Union’s taken on her? I say she’s more than welcome to do so. | |||
The responsibility to communicate the latest from the heart of the Union falls to me. We face unexpected hardship following a turbulent period in our history. The decreased capabilities of Tribe Sunless are of concern to all–and so is the mere thought of those Neru-Gal butchers walking away without paying for this vile crime. | |||
There is no easy choice to be made here, and if you ask a pair of Vox representatives sitting on two ends of the table, you’re liable to get two very different responses. What I know is that Aish spoke true and from the heart even when it must have been the hardest for her to place anyone’s interests before her need for revenge. That is why the Vox picked right when we named her Common Speaker for the Vox. She is a true leader, one who will always pick the greater good of the people. | |||
But what is that greater good? Aish is wise in showing us that no one person can decide alone. This vote is about collectively choosing the answer to that question. What is justice? Punishing the wicked in one swift, decisive blow? Or prioritizing those who have suffered at their hands and easing their pain? Besides, Iron Chime might have been the smallest of the tribe’s ring outposts, but it housed a good third of the equipment necessary for the tribe’s mining operations. To go forwards without this…it spells trouble for Sunless. | |||
It is no easy vote, but freedom is best exercised in choices such as these. | |||
Faceless Emmett | |||
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'''Voting Results''' | |||
'''Open Hand, Closed Fist''' | |||
'' | ''Transgalactic report 29.1.513, Trice Chavos, Universal Council''<br> | ||
The final vote is in favor of aiding Tribe Sunless. The voice of the factions has been heard, and Faction vessels are already chock-full of supplies and personnel eager to help the reconstruction efforts. The Universal Council will provide all the material and humanitarian aid it can. | |||
Minister Hakon Va-Halet has temporarily taken a leave of absence to head the internal Imperial response to, and investigation into, Neru-Gal’s crimes. | |||
Provide Aid to Tribe Sunless - 3 (Empire, Federation, Union)<br> | |||
Punish House Neru-Gal - 0 () | Punish House Neru-Gal - 0 () | ||
''' | '''Empire:'''<br> | ||
''Provide aid to Tribe Sunless -'' '''67.95% Imperial favor'''<br> | |||
'' | ''Punish House Neru-Gal -'' '''32.05% Imperial favor'''<br> | ||
'' | |||
'' | '''Federation:'''<br> | ||
''Provide aid to Tribe Sunless -'' '''68.44% of the votes'''<br> | |||
''Punish House Neru-Gal -'' '''31.56% of the votes'''<br> | |||
'' | '''Union:'''<br> | ||
''Provide aid to Tribe Sunless -'' '''70.14% of the votes'''<br> | |||
''Punish House Neru-Gal -'' '''29.86% of the votes'''<br> | |||
Other relevant reports:<blockquote>Rumors of the MIEB Task Force's restructuring continue to dominate public discourse across the Federation. The Task Force's director, Dr. Barnhardt, has yet to comment on their veracity.</blockquote></div> | |||
= Capitolo 16.2: La calamita = | = Capitolo 16.2: La calamita = |