Post by Carin on Aug 15, 2015 19:46:48 GMT
[9:59:12]The Architect
It would not be longer than two hours before Arnic came back to retrieve Specialist Val. He found him lightly fraternizing with Reg, a fairly well-known hand in one of the ground siege forces. "Come on, soldier. It's time for briefing." His voice was easily recognizable even though he was in a blind spot of Kaalin's. Arnic would be escorting Kaalin to Class F Briefing, located in one of the more heavily secured areas of the ship.. though in fact most of the ship was accessible to even lesser security clearance levels; those who were closed off were the grunt soldiers stored on board, and they were not so large in number. A crew elevator requiring Arnic's ID led them to a fairly office-looking hall, with large rooms branching out to each side. As they proceeded, Arnic stopped and motioned the way to a room labeled 'F,' which would be Kaalin's destination.
"In you go," Arnic said, and after their short exchange Arnic would leave Kaalin's side for now. Inside, a very gruff looking uniformed man with the obvious 'General' ranking on his breast pocket and shoulders was waiting, along with three other lesser looking men, though still clearly not low ranked. "There he is," said the old General, his age very obviously at least seventy. His expression was hard to discern, the wrinkles on his face made him seem like he was squinting tensely, though he was calm aside from a slight tremor to his hands. The other three officers greeted Kaalin, and briefing would begin short after.
[9:59:31]The Architect
Kaalin was given the specifics of a relatively delicate resource acquisition operation. The planet Proxima II was an oceanic planet covered entirely in water, and according to scanners, was laden with rich minerals useful in developing technology. Sworn to secrecy of these resources, Kaalin was to lead his crack team of miners and soldiers to retrieve these minerals by diving beneath the waters and assessing strategically pinpointed positions for extraction of the minerals. The old General, who intorudced himself as Orcas, also made mention of Balthazar's instructions to Carin the Architect of War, who was necessitated to monitor the mission and to scrutinize every fine detail of it. As he warned Kaalin of this, he looked nervous, and his tremors grew a little worse. The officer nearest to him almost took his arm, but Orcas regained his composure and recovered silently for a minute.
"You'll be given the means.. all of the means... she always guarantees that." One of the officers made note, as the General took a break from speaking. "You are to meet your team at 0900Z hours, I am told the ship will be prepared elsewhere and called in to pick you up before refueling and heading out to Proxima II. The warp should only take about 32 minutes. The Architect's plans are incredibly specific.. so be sure to follow them exactly. She will maintain electro-communications with you, I am told." Kaalin would be allowed to comment in any way he pleased during this moment, and then, after a wrap-up of the technology for drilling and mining that was tyo be used, briefing was concluded. Kaalin would have to wait for his rendezvous time at his designated quarters, which Arnic would come back to lead him to.
[9:59:31]The Architect
Flood kick
[10:20:29]
CommanderCaedras waited by the docking bay of the light Federation cruiser Temperance for the Akkadian dignitary to arrive. The Temperence was a serviceable vessel having seen much use in the borders of Federation space against pirates and raiders, but served now with the Joint Task Force Fleet as a mobile base of operations. It traveled with three other cruisers, each with more firepower and combat prowess, though they hung back and let the Temperence take the lead. Having dispatched numerous communications to several galactic communities, they had been among the first to respond. Perhaps, he reflected, thanks to his service in transporting the God-emperor's daughter safely to Caledon Prime had curried him some favor but he did not bank on that. Uniform neatly pressed, his new Admiralty cap tucked onto his head, the governor-Admiral of the Federation waited at attention with a handful of Marines as the Akkadian shuttled finished the docking cycle.
[10:24:54]Subject Darkscar
After the long sleep in his cell and his first real meal in months, Kaalin’s mood was slightly more charitable. The bitterness over what happened to him and how he was treated hadn’t yet dissipated, but on a full stomach and a good sleep he could overlook it in the company of the old general. He set himself down on the other side of the large, elderly man’s desk and folded his arms over his chest. “Sir,” Kaalin said in greeting, sounding almost respectful, but there was still a grudging tone in his voice, as if he were a child being forced to do the right thing. As the general went on to explain his plan, the circumstances, and his objectives, Kaalin listened quietly. Leading a unit through an ocean world to secure valuable resources for the Imperium sounded like it should be a cakewalk. To his understanding, he would be surrounded by professionals, all who were intimately familiar with their job. It almost sounded like he wasn’t even needed for something like this. And that immediately made him suspicious: not of treachery, but incompetence.
“Pardon my asking, sir, but I was extricated from Colony Beta G, hastily promoted to a specialist, and immediately re-assigned for a critical mission it sounds like almost anyone could have gotten done sooner in my place. But you haven’t said one word about the thing that you rescued me over, and why it’s relevant to this job.” Kaalin paused, allowing the general to let that sink in for a moment before clarifying. “Resistance, sir. Will I be expecting hostiles on this on this operation? It wouldn’t make sense to pull my ass out of hell just for something that sounds this easy. If we’re moving in unopposed, I guess I just don’t understand why this hadn’t been taken care of sooner.” Kaalin leaned back in his chair a bit, shrugging his shoulders. “Then again, who am I to question the strategic methods of the architect? I don’t suppose you’d want me in the thick of things where I could get killed on an operation that’s really just supposed to serve as a tool to estimate my capabilities.”
[10:38:00]
The Architect waited in the calm quiet of the smooth, relatively small and streamlined shuttle as it entered the docking bay of Temperance, sending her from her own vessel, The Foundation, as they were in an Akkadian space quadrant. She had previously granted permission for this Federation vessel, and its accompaniment, to enter Akkadian space under protection in response to a request to meet and greet. Her ship came to a small controlled stop and docked, which took a few minutes, but after everything was pressurized, she stood and made her way to the exit of the shuttle, escorted by just one relatively thin but tall male. The extension latter allowed the two to deplane, much like a small plank of sorts, and they were on the 'firm ground' of the Temperance. Her clean blonde hair shimmered in the artificial light of the bay as she made light, casual steps in the direction of a small party that were arranged there to meet her. It would have been hard to make out her eyes from behind her glasses probably, due to the lighting, but as she approached, the pale green of her iris showed through and the light refracted elsewhere, showing her collected, professional yet somehow relaxed and in charge demeanor. "Well met," she spoke, her voice crisp and enunciated, "I am Carin Dalius, Architect of War of the Akkadian Imperium." This introduction came as she brought herself to a stop, standing straightly with the intent to make out the figures who now stood in front of her, presumably to escort her to the room where their one-on-one discussion might happen. Her own guard would stay behind in any case, as she would instruct him to do so if she was asked to follow the commander; and she could almost immediately tell who that was, a very obviously dressed, well-met man among a line of marines.
[10:38:21]The Architect
( @ Caedras ^ )
[10:50:24]The Architect
"Ah," the old general responded, "you're pretty observant, kid.." He seemed barely able to finish his thought before the nearby officers chimed in at different moments. "The rank is probably because the Architect would rather not have some private leading a task force.. she already knows how you operate, and saw you as a match for this. As for the specifics," ... "Yes, actually, hostiles is your primary concern. Deep within that planet, well-protected intelligent life exists.. we know that. We are still trying to develop more on what exactly they are, but I'll tell you this. Be prepared to utilize all of the technology you are assigned to operate, and bring out the best in your men tactically. That is what the plan indicates. She might be testing you, but this mission is very real." The officer was quite authoritative, as if he had given this speech before. Every mention of the Architect's title brought a small shiver to the general, who seemed now to be afflicted by her for some reason. A small chart was placed on the desk entitled "Prox. II Life 525005," and so little was written aside from numbers and calculations involving the probabilities of where they dwell on the planet within, but a few little pictures that were almost crudely satellite-taken indicated that something was certainly there, and was intelligent, and perhaps deadly. "The truth is, we have not encountered them in direct battle. Your adaptive techniques are necessary for guiding the troops such that these underwater folk are deadly, and we presume they are. Especially when we want to retrieve their resources. Assume resistance will be strong, and your battles may take place entirely underwater. Are you prepared for that?"
[10:50:35]The Architect
( @ Kaalin ^ )
[10:54:36]
CommanderCaedras saluted her as she spoke, the few Marines behind him slipping their weapons aside to salute in unison but a heartbeat after Caedras. His own eyes danced oddly, the irises hard to distinguish from where light shifted and rotated along the implanted conlesnses that streamed data across them. Once the salute was completed, he brought one hand up to take the cap from his head and tuck it under the opposite arm. Carin could note that his left hand was a cybernetic replacement as he did so. “Governor-Admiral Cieran Caedras, at your service. Would you prefer ma'am, sir, or another honorific?” he asked, politely businesslike and to the point. He did, however, wave a hand down the corridor to invite her to follow suit. If she did, he would lead the way while the Marines stayed behind.
[11:10:22]Subject Darkscar
“With all due respect, sir”, Kaalin said the last word with a note of sarcasm, “kids sit in their rooms, watch the video feeds, and play with toys. Kids don’t have to bleed the way I’ve bled. They haven’t seen what I’ve seen. I don’t have those luxuries. Don’t talk to me like your addressing anything less than a man.” It felt good to say it, to be in the unique position of being able to humble a general. Especially after what they had initially planned for him: death. One of the officers at the general’s side tightened his fist. The other looked upon Kaalin with a sense of understanding and smiled slyly at the younger man.
Beyond that curt correction, Kaalin listened as the old general went on to elaborate about Proxima II. The lack of details they had regarding the hostiles would be troubling, to the say the least. But from what it sounded like, he would be engaging another intelligent species in combat. And their technological capacity could range anywhere from primitive spears and rocks to full blown plasma rifles and advanced military hardware. The imperium had a lot of advanced technology and scouting capabilities at their disposal. If they were as of yet unable to determine even the basics of this species and its culture, there was a high probability that they were making use of advanced technology to evade them. Which, as far as Kaalin could speculate, told him the mission would be exceptionally dangerous. It was no hive defense on an abandoned colony, but it could just as easily get him killed. “I can handle it, General,” Kaalin finally said, though he wasn’t entirely sure of himself. He only knew he was willing to take the risk, and he wasn’t even entirely sure why. With that, Kaalin rose. ”Will that be all?”
Lady Mairis Veridias has joined Dragonstar Galaxy
[11:18:32]
The Architect smiled warmly, in a naturally polite manner to the salutes, and provided her own salute to them, which was respectful, but not nearly as sharp and soldier-like. "A pleasure, Governor-Admiral," she said with a kind tilt of her head. "You may refer to me as ma'am." Carin studied the man up and down as she was near to him, gaining a fair understanding of his mechanical appendage and various other enhancements. As she had before, she walked casually, her own personal escort staying behind with the marines that formerly accompanied the Governor-Admiral. Walking the halls with Cieran, Carin placed her white-gloved hand gently along the tubular railings and stairs. She could almost feel the energy coursing through the ship, a pretty formidable piece of equipment. Her boots, which had a heel to them, clicked along the metallic floor, echoing as the two progressed further into the ship and towards their destination meeting room. As they arrived, Carin awaited entry into the room, and stood with her arms in a contemplative position, a slight smirk on her face.
[11:22:36]The Architect
( @ Caedras ^ )
Karise Illyian Cypriana has joined Dragonstar Galaxy
[11:30:10]CommanderCaedras
“As you wish, ma'am,” he responded lightly, leading her along. The faint smell of cleaning solution drifted in the air, painted lines neatly marked along the bulkhead leading to other sections of the cruiser. There was an abundance energy in the air as well, ceaseless treams of data flowing to, from and through any of the Federation troops and crew aboard the vessel, each with their own enhancements clearly visible. The door to the room hissed open quietly and allowed them access to a board room. It was empty of other personnel save for them, and granted them a sidelong view of the space beyond. Upon closer inspection, she would note that it was not glass but a viewscreen that imitated the same function.
[11:30:16]CommanderCaedras
The room itself held a singular round table of stainless steel material. Currently, it was capable of seating upwards six people by the looks of it but with a few flicks of his hand in the air to keyboards and consoles unseen by her eyes, the table spun and shrank drastically in width until it was reduced to two seats, both of which were extensions of the table as well. A small station off to the side had already begun pouring drinks into carafes, the smell of coffee and tea wafting through the air as Caedras took his seat. “Now then, ma'am. The Federation is pleased to see the Akkadian interest in diplomatic relations made proper. We understand our predecessor has besmirched the name of the Federation, and I seek to repair it. As you are well aware, the corporate sector of the Federation's technological and medical fields are among the top ranking in the galactic community, and our fleet remains comparable in skill, training and power. However, we have expressed an interest in aiding the galactic community where the I.N.L.E.D have been spread too thin to prove an effective, end all solution. However, before we carry on, I would hear what it is you, as representative of the Akkadian people, wish to say or ask.”
[11:30:20]
CommanderCaedras poured himself a cup of tea in what appeared to be a set of bone white, blue laquered china. “Coffee? Tea? Water?” he inquired, glancing over his shoulder in her direction.
[11:34:18]The Architect
The officers and the General nodded in agreement, and dispatched their final words to Kaalin. "Prepare yourself for departure, from now on, you are in charge of your group of men. There are eleven of you, including yourself," and as the General spoke, he handed the final pieces of notes to Kaalin, within, the more intricately planned details of the entrance strategy, including the miner's portion, and even a page dedicated to explaining the other ten men he would be assigned. They all had specialties, though he would be in charge of classifying them and breaking down their approach. The technology to be employed was almost all items that would be useful under water, including an air-dispersion gun that would create small pockets of air if needed. That might have been the most important tool in such drastic situations. "All of what we have discussed is summarized within. Your men are being assembled and brought to this vessel in a few hours, and you will be notified of that. All of your materials will be included. You are dismissed." The men then collected themselves and left, except for the old general, who simply sat and breathed in his moment. He would keep a lazy eye on Kaalin. Meanwhile, Arnic was not far away, ready for any questions Kaalin may have. Otherwise, he would simply retire, his job and time with Kaalin essentially done.
[11:34:28]The Architect
( @ Kaalin ^ )
[11:51:15]
Karise Illyian Cypriana stood outside the room, acting as security, though the Akkadian's wouldn't even know she was there. She remained perfectly still, cloaked and off to the side, out of the way. She was tapped into his comms, listening in, for.....securities sake. She glanced at the guards, and assessed them thoroughly. She had to muffle a snicker at the offer of tea, Caedras, always so polite.
[11:55:07]The Architect
Carin was observant of a fairly high-technology environment, and only one female guard left outside of the briefing room before entering, the door securely shut behind them. As she took her seat, folding her right leg over her left, she sat up straight yet comfortably in the chair, her posture descriptive of a neat professionalism. There was no awkward tension, or no sense of disability in the air between them. Soon thereafter, the Governor-Admiral began to discuss business, and Carin listened with an ear tilted gently towards him. Her reply came first, in the form of her desired beverage. "Tea, if you will." The smile which warmly dressed her face turned to a more serious, contemplative yet open expression as she began again, "We Akkadians have a respect for the Federation's practical and formulative methods, and understand your approach is considerably reasonable. In light of recent outrage with our connections to the Caledonian Empire, we would be more than happy to consider, with certain conditions, an accord of sorts. That is the note with which I bring my presence to you. First, you must be aware that the Caledonian Leader, Brennus, has caused us much grievance in the past. We have been hard-pressed to make agreement with his territorial demands, and his expansion is no doubt a concern to yours as well as mine own empire." Taking a sip of the tea she would have been brought, a light smile and nod to suggest it was flavorful, she continued. "More recently, as I mentioned, my Emperor's daughter was brought into the situation, and Brennus' ... hunger, shall we put it, seems insatiable. I am interested in, as well, more specifically what you would call to my attention, and perhaps on what terms we might discuss an accord.. or mayhaps our attempt at a temporary solution that does not beget immediate, undesirable war with Caledon." Setting the tea down, she wished to address the similarities in their ideologies, and then discuss what must be done with Caledon.
[11:55:57]The Architect
( @ Caedras )
[12:10:02]
CommanderCaedras fished out another cup for her and placed it on the tray before making his way to sit opposite her. He listened, carefully, though his attention remained on the cups before him. There was a moment's pause while he poured, letting the silence hang in the air. It was ceremonial, this serving, it would seem. And when he was done, he took a sip of the jasmine flavoured beverage and considered. His eyes flicked up towards hers, the light clicking audible from their proximity. He remained in a posture much akin to hers; rigid, professional, but not unapproachable. “You mean the fact that a Galactic leader seems more preoccupied with amassing pleasure slaves, wives and shrugging accountability for actions though could have been resolved had he not been leaving logic based decisions to his loins?” he asked, matter-of-factly, as though it was a casual observation.
[12:10:11]CommanderCaedras
“We are aware of his expansionist and hedonistic tendencies, and though the Federation seems grateful for his intercession and instatement of myself to this position, it is not pleased with the manner upon which he claimed Federation space as a whole as a Caledonian state. Good things have been wrought since, of that I can attest. But the Federation's fate and loyalties are bound to that man's crotch.” Another sip. “Kallean and Caledonian relations are, frankly, horrendous, and we shudder to consider what exactly it is that the Caledonians have brought to bear to gain your ire. Though I must admit some regret in handing the Lady Mairis to Emperor Brennus, I do not regret my duty.” It would certainly be something to note his obvious loyalty and service to a man he openly disliked, but it did not seem that he was speaking out of turn maliciously. These were facts and observations made by the Federation Admiral, plain and simple. “Economic pressure can be applied to make the Federation's displeasure known, while weakening the production sector of Caledon's military, in hopes of dissuading him of further conflict. The Federation will also not be aiding the Caledonian's should they take up arms, as well, in fear of violation of I.N.L.E.D Diplomatic law. And frankly? The Federation despises Caledon's slavery laws.”
[12:10:16]
CommanderCaedras regarded her for a few more moments to gauge her reactions and thoughts. His eyes shifted and changed, constantly moving with new data and observing her as though she were under a microscopic lense.
[12:41:57]The Architect
"It is to that matter exactly with which I discuss my concern. Emperor Balthazar, of the Akkadian Imperium, has countless times expressed his disagreement with sclabhai and other Caledonian customs. It is not a digression to speak of the way this ties in to the rule with which Brennus conducts his means for his empire. I represent ideologies quite opposite to that, as you must already know. You are also aware that Caledonian alliances are dwindling, and that is considerably obvious, yet Brennus does nothing to ascertain the reason. Akkadia will support Kallean efforts, though through these measures and in meeting with you, Governor-Admiral, we wish to avoid war with Caledon." Another sip of her tea, the aroma quite pleasant and calming, and a quick observation of the Commander's movements, then she would continue. "It was to be my suggestion that we proceed to subtly dismember trade connections, sanctioning certain economic sectors of Caledonian market, and limiting military involvement as well as movement and protection, to and with the Caledonian Empire. We may settle these exact terms through an accord that I will have prepared and forwarded to your personal terminal link. I understand that you owe your loyalty and position to Brennus and his empire; it is not my intention to start war, quite the contrary. I wish to send a message to the man who conducts his empire as if no one is watching. We live in a very large galaxy, full of many peoples. We conduct order as a group, and decide what is best for all as we see fit. Thus, consensus will determine the order and structure of our alliances." Briefly pausing, she took in the filtered air around her. Any sense that Cieran would have read from ehr would be of calm concentration and professionalism in the highest accord, not a flinch or sense of worry in any regard. Unflappable and full of directive and planning, she continued to conclude her ends. "I respect your skill and ability to discern well the decisions and proper courses for action in this.. dire time. I hope that you will consider the accord, and that we can keep it subtle, so that less suffer and so that war is avoided. The document I forward to your terminal is for our eyes and planning purposes only.. and I implore you to make changes necessary to your end, to see that all is considered. I however trust that you will entertain my strategies," she finished, looking to him as if he would have understood that she meant her plans were incredibly well detailed. After all, she was famous for this very purpose.
It would not be longer than two hours before Arnic came back to retrieve Specialist Val. He found him lightly fraternizing with Reg, a fairly well-known hand in one of the ground siege forces. "Come on, soldier. It's time for briefing." His voice was easily recognizable even though he was in a blind spot of Kaalin's. Arnic would be escorting Kaalin to Class F Briefing, located in one of the more heavily secured areas of the ship.. though in fact most of the ship was accessible to even lesser security clearance levels; those who were closed off were the grunt soldiers stored on board, and they were not so large in number. A crew elevator requiring Arnic's ID led them to a fairly office-looking hall, with large rooms branching out to each side. As they proceeded, Arnic stopped and motioned the way to a room labeled 'F,' which would be Kaalin's destination.
"In you go," Arnic said, and after their short exchange Arnic would leave Kaalin's side for now. Inside, a very gruff looking uniformed man with the obvious 'General' ranking on his breast pocket and shoulders was waiting, along with three other lesser looking men, though still clearly not low ranked. "There he is," said the old General, his age very obviously at least seventy. His expression was hard to discern, the wrinkles on his face made him seem like he was squinting tensely, though he was calm aside from a slight tremor to his hands. The other three officers greeted Kaalin, and briefing would begin short after.
[9:59:31]The Architect
Kaalin was given the specifics of a relatively delicate resource acquisition operation. The planet Proxima II was an oceanic planet covered entirely in water, and according to scanners, was laden with rich minerals useful in developing technology. Sworn to secrecy of these resources, Kaalin was to lead his crack team of miners and soldiers to retrieve these minerals by diving beneath the waters and assessing strategically pinpointed positions for extraction of the minerals. The old General, who intorudced himself as Orcas, also made mention of Balthazar's instructions to Carin the Architect of War, who was necessitated to monitor the mission and to scrutinize every fine detail of it. As he warned Kaalin of this, he looked nervous, and his tremors grew a little worse. The officer nearest to him almost took his arm, but Orcas regained his composure and recovered silently for a minute.
"You'll be given the means.. all of the means... she always guarantees that." One of the officers made note, as the General took a break from speaking. "You are to meet your team at 0900Z hours, I am told the ship will be prepared elsewhere and called in to pick you up before refueling and heading out to Proxima II. The warp should only take about 32 minutes. The Architect's plans are incredibly specific.. so be sure to follow them exactly. She will maintain electro-communications with you, I am told." Kaalin would be allowed to comment in any way he pleased during this moment, and then, after a wrap-up of the technology for drilling and mining that was tyo be used, briefing was concluded. Kaalin would have to wait for his rendezvous time at his designated quarters, which Arnic would come back to lead him to.
[9:59:31]The Architect
Flood kick
[10:20:29]
CommanderCaedras waited by the docking bay of the light Federation cruiser Temperance for the Akkadian dignitary to arrive. The Temperence was a serviceable vessel having seen much use in the borders of Federation space against pirates and raiders, but served now with the Joint Task Force Fleet as a mobile base of operations. It traveled with three other cruisers, each with more firepower and combat prowess, though they hung back and let the Temperence take the lead. Having dispatched numerous communications to several galactic communities, they had been among the first to respond. Perhaps, he reflected, thanks to his service in transporting the God-emperor's daughter safely to Caledon Prime had curried him some favor but he did not bank on that. Uniform neatly pressed, his new Admiralty cap tucked onto his head, the governor-Admiral of the Federation waited at attention with a handful of Marines as the Akkadian shuttled finished the docking cycle.
[10:24:54]Subject Darkscar
After the long sleep in his cell and his first real meal in months, Kaalin’s mood was slightly more charitable. The bitterness over what happened to him and how he was treated hadn’t yet dissipated, but on a full stomach and a good sleep he could overlook it in the company of the old general. He set himself down on the other side of the large, elderly man’s desk and folded his arms over his chest. “Sir,” Kaalin said in greeting, sounding almost respectful, but there was still a grudging tone in his voice, as if he were a child being forced to do the right thing. As the general went on to explain his plan, the circumstances, and his objectives, Kaalin listened quietly. Leading a unit through an ocean world to secure valuable resources for the Imperium sounded like it should be a cakewalk. To his understanding, he would be surrounded by professionals, all who were intimately familiar with their job. It almost sounded like he wasn’t even needed for something like this. And that immediately made him suspicious: not of treachery, but incompetence.
“Pardon my asking, sir, but I was extricated from Colony Beta G, hastily promoted to a specialist, and immediately re-assigned for a critical mission it sounds like almost anyone could have gotten done sooner in my place. But you haven’t said one word about the thing that you rescued me over, and why it’s relevant to this job.” Kaalin paused, allowing the general to let that sink in for a moment before clarifying. “Resistance, sir. Will I be expecting hostiles on this on this operation? It wouldn’t make sense to pull my ass out of hell just for something that sounds this easy. If we’re moving in unopposed, I guess I just don’t understand why this hadn’t been taken care of sooner.” Kaalin leaned back in his chair a bit, shrugging his shoulders. “Then again, who am I to question the strategic methods of the architect? I don’t suppose you’d want me in the thick of things where I could get killed on an operation that’s really just supposed to serve as a tool to estimate my capabilities.”
[10:38:00]
The Architect waited in the calm quiet of the smooth, relatively small and streamlined shuttle as it entered the docking bay of Temperance, sending her from her own vessel, The Foundation, as they were in an Akkadian space quadrant. She had previously granted permission for this Federation vessel, and its accompaniment, to enter Akkadian space under protection in response to a request to meet and greet. Her ship came to a small controlled stop and docked, which took a few minutes, but after everything was pressurized, she stood and made her way to the exit of the shuttle, escorted by just one relatively thin but tall male. The extension latter allowed the two to deplane, much like a small plank of sorts, and they were on the 'firm ground' of the Temperance. Her clean blonde hair shimmered in the artificial light of the bay as she made light, casual steps in the direction of a small party that were arranged there to meet her. It would have been hard to make out her eyes from behind her glasses probably, due to the lighting, but as she approached, the pale green of her iris showed through and the light refracted elsewhere, showing her collected, professional yet somehow relaxed and in charge demeanor. "Well met," she spoke, her voice crisp and enunciated, "I am Carin Dalius, Architect of War of the Akkadian Imperium." This introduction came as she brought herself to a stop, standing straightly with the intent to make out the figures who now stood in front of her, presumably to escort her to the room where their one-on-one discussion might happen. Her own guard would stay behind in any case, as she would instruct him to do so if she was asked to follow the commander; and she could almost immediately tell who that was, a very obviously dressed, well-met man among a line of marines.
[10:38:21]The Architect
( @ Caedras ^ )
[10:50:24]The Architect
"Ah," the old general responded, "you're pretty observant, kid.." He seemed barely able to finish his thought before the nearby officers chimed in at different moments. "The rank is probably because the Architect would rather not have some private leading a task force.. she already knows how you operate, and saw you as a match for this. As for the specifics," ... "Yes, actually, hostiles is your primary concern. Deep within that planet, well-protected intelligent life exists.. we know that. We are still trying to develop more on what exactly they are, but I'll tell you this. Be prepared to utilize all of the technology you are assigned to operate, and bring out the best in your men tactically. That is what the plan indicates. She might be testing you, but this mission is very real." The officer was quite authoritative, as if he had given this speech before. Every mention of the Architect's title brought a small shiver to the general, who seemed now to be afflicted by her for some reason. A small chart was placed on the desk entitled "Prox. II Life 525005," and so little was written aside from numbers and calculations involving the probabilities of where they dwell on the planet within, but a few little pictures that were almost crudely satellite-taken indicated that something was certainly there, and was intelligent, and perhaps deadly. "The truth is, we have not encountered them in direct battle. Your adaptive techniques are necessary for guiding the troops such that these underwater folk are deadly, and we presume they are. Especially when we want to retrieve their resources. Assume resistance will be strong, and your battles may take place entirely underwater. Are you prepared for that?"
[10:50:35]The Architect
( @ Kaalin ^ )
[10:54:36]
CommanderCaedras saluted her as she spoke, the few Marines behind him slipping their weapons aside to salute in unison but a heartbeat after Caedras. His own eyes danced oddly, the irises hard to distinguish from where light shifted and rotated along the implanted conlesnses that streamed data across them. Once the salute was completed, he brought one hand up to take the cap from his head and tuck it under the opposite arm. Carin could note that his left hand was a cybernetic replacement as he did so. “Governor-Admiral Cieran Caedras, at your service. Would you prefer ma'am, sir, or another honorific?” he asked, politely businesslike and to the point. He did, however, wave a hand down the corridor to invite her to follow suit. If she did, he would lead the way while the Marines stayed behind.
[11:10:22]Subject Darkscar
“With all due respect, sir”, Kaalin said the last word with a note of sarcasm, “kids sit in their rooms, watch the video feeds, and play with toys. Kids don’t have to bleed the way I’ve bled. They haven’t seen what I’ve seen. I don’t have those luxuries. Don’t talk to me like your addressing anything less than a man.” It felt good to say it, to be in the unique position of being able to humble a general. Especially after what they had initially planned for him: death. One of the officers at the general’s side tightened his fist. The other looked upon Kaalin with a sense of understanding and smiled slyly at the younger man.
Beyond that curt correction, Kaalin listened as the old general went on to elaborate about Proxima II. The lack of details they had regarding the hostiles would be troubling, to the say the least. But from what it sounded like, he would be engaging another intelligent species in combat. And their technological capacity could range anywhere from primitive spears and rocks to full blown plasma rifles and advanced military hardware. The imperium had a lot of advanced technology and scouting capabilities at their disposal. If they were as of yet unable to determine even the basics of this species and its culture, there was a high probability that they were making use of advanced technology to evade them. Which, as far as Kaalin could speculate, told him the mission would be exceptionally dangerous. It was no hive defense on an abandoned colony, but it could just as easily get him killed. “I can handle it, General,” Kaalin finally said, though he wasn’t entirely sure of himself. He only knew he was willing to take the risk, and he wasn’t even entirely sure why. With that, Kaalin rose. ”Will that be all?”
Lady Mairis Veridias has joined Dragonstar Galaxy
[11:18:32]
The Architect smiled warmly, in a naturally polite manner to the salutes, and provided her own salute to them, which was respectful, but not nearly as sharp and soldier-like. "A pleasure, Governor-Admiral," she said with a kind tilt of her head. "You may refer to me as ma'am." Carin studied the man up and down as she was near to him, gaining a fair understanding of his mechanical appendage and various other enhancements. As she had before, she walked casually, her own personal escort staying behind with the marines that formerly accompanied the Governor-Admiral. Walking the halls with Cieran, Carin placed her white-gloved hand gently along the tubular railings and stairs. She could almost feel the energy coursing through the ship, a pretty formidable piece of equipment. Her boots, which had a heel to them, clicked along the metallic floor, echoing as the two progressed further into the ship and towards their destination meeting room. As they arrived, Carin awaited entry into the room, and stood with her arms in a contemplative position, a slight smirk on her face.
[11:22:36]The Architect
( @ Caedras ^ )
Karise Illyian Cypriana has joined Dragonstar Galaxy
[11:30:10]CommanderCaedras
“As you wish, ma'am,” he responded lightly, leading her along. The faint smell of cleaning solution drifted in the air, painted lines neatly marked along the bulkhead leading to other sections of the cruiser. There was an abundance energy in the air as well, ceaseless treams of data flowing to, from and through any of the Federation troops and crew aboard the vessel, each with their own enhancements clearly visible. The door to the room hissed open quietly and allowed them access to a board room. It was empty of other personnel save for them, and granted them a sidelong view of the space beyond. Upon closer inspection, she would note that it was not glass but a viewscreen that imitated the same function.
[11:30:16]CommanderCaedras
The room itself held a singular round table of stainless steel material. Currently, it was capable of seating upwards six people by the looks of it but with a few flicks of his hand in the air to keyboards and consoles unseen by her eyes, the table spun and shrank drastically in width until it was reduced to two seats, both of which were extensions of the table as well. A small station off to the side had already begun pouring drinks into carafes, the smell of coffee and tea wafting through the air as Caedras took his seat. “Now then, ma'am. The Federation is pleased to see the Akkadian interest in diplomatic relations made proper. We understand our predecessor has besmirched the name of the Federation, and I seek to repair it. As you are well aware, the corporate sector of the Federation's technological and medical fields are among the top ranking in the galactic community, and our fleet remains comparable in skill, training and power. However, we have expressed an interest in aiding the galactic community where the I.N.L.E.D have been spread too thin to prove an effective, end all solution. However, before we carry on, I would hear what it is you, as representative of the Akkadian people, wish to say or ask.”
[11:30:20]
CommanderCaedras poured himself a cup of tea in what appeared to be a set of bone white, blue laquered china. “Coffee? Tea? Water?” he inquired, glancing over his shoulder in her direction.
[11:34:18]The Architect
The officers and the General nodded in agreement, and dispatched their final words to Kaalin. "Prepare yourself for departure, from now on, you are in charge of your group of men. There are eleven of you, including yourself," and as the General spoke, he handed the final pieces of notes to Kaalin, within, the more intricately planned details of the entrance strategy, including the miner's portion, and even a page dedicated to explaining the other ten men he would be assigned. They all had specialties, though he would be in charge of classifying them and breaking down their approach. The technology to be employed was almost all items that would be useful under water, including an air-dispersion gun that would create small pockets of air if needed. That might have been the most important tool in such drastic situations. "All of what we have discussed is summarized within. Your men are being assembled and brought to this vessel in a few hours, and you will be notified of that. All of your materials will be included. You are dismissed." The men then collected themselves and left, except for the old general, who simply sat and breathed in his moment. He would keep a lazy eye on Kaalin. Meanwhile, Arnic was not far away, ready for any questions Kaalin may have. Otherwise, he would simply retire, his job and time with Kaalin essentially done.
[11:34:28]The Architect
( @ Kaalin ^ )
[11:51:15]
Karise Illyian Cypriana stood outside the room, acting as security, though the Akkadian's wouldn't even know she was there. She remained perfectly still, cloaked and off to the side, out of the way. She was tapped into his comms, listening in, for.....securities sake. She glanced at the guards, and assessed them thoroughly. She had to muffle a snicker at the offer of tea, Caedras, always so polite.
[11:55:07]The Architect
Carin was observant of a fairly high-technology environment, and only one female guard left outside of the briefing room before entering, the door securely shut behind them. As she took her seat, folding her right leg over her left, she sat up straight yet comfortably in the chair, her posture descriptive of a neat professionalism. There was no awkward tension, or no sense of disability in the air between them. Soon thereafter, the Governor-Admiral began to discuss business, and Carin listened with an ear tilted gently towards him. Her reply came first, in the form of her desired beverage. "Tea, if you will." The smile which warmly dressed her face turned to a more serious, contemplative yet open expression as she began again, "We Akkadians have a respect for the Federation's practical and formulative methods, and understand your approach is considerably reasonable. In light of recent outrage with our connections to the Caledonian Empire, we would be more than happy to consider, with certain conditions, an accord of sorts. That is the note with which I bring my presence to you. First, you must be aware that the Caledonian Leader, Brennus, has caused us much grievance in the past. We have been hard-pressed to make agreement with his territorial demands, and his expansion is no doubt a concern to yours as well as mine own empire." Taking a sip of the tea she would have been brought, a light smile and nod to suggest it was flavorful, she continued. "More recently, as I mentioned, my Emperor's daughter was brought into the situation, and Brennus' ... hunger, shall we put it, seems insatiable. I am interested in, as well, more specifically what you would call to my attention, and perhaps on what terms we might discuss an accord.. or mayhaps our attempt at a temporary solution that does not beget immediate, undesirable war with Caledon." Setting the tea down, she wished to address the similarities in their ideologies, and then discuss what must be done with Caledon.
[11:55:57]The Architect
( @ Caedras )
[12:10:02]
CommanderCaedras fished out another cup for her and placed it on the tray before making his way to sit opposite her. He listened, carefully, though his attention remained on the cups before him. There was a moment's pause while he poured, letting the silence hang in the air. It was ceremonial, this serving, it would seem. And when he was done, he took a sip of the jasmine flavoured beverage and considered. His eyes flicked up towards hers, the light clicking audible from their proximity. He remained in a posture much akin to hers; rigid, professional, but not unapproachable. “You mean the fact that a Galactic leader seems more preoccupied with amassing pleasure slaves, wives and shrugging accountability for actions though could have been resolved had he not been leaving logic based decisions to his loins?” he asked, matter-of-factly, as though it was a casual observation.
[12:10:11]CommanderCaedras
“We are aware of his expansionist and hedonistic tendencies, and though the Federation seems grateful for his intercession and instatement of myself to this position, it is not pleased with the manner upon which he claimed Federation space as a whole as a Caledonian state. Good things have been wrought since, of that I can attest. But the Federation's fate and loyalties are bound to that man's crotch.” Another sip. “Kallean and Caledonian relations are, frankly, horrendous, and we shudder to consider what exactly it is that the Caledonians have brought to bear to gain your ire. Though I must admit some regret in handing the Lady Mairis to Emperor Brennus, I do not regret my duty.” It would certainly be something to note his obvious loyalty and service to a man he openly disliked, but it did not seem that he was speaking out of turn maliciously. These were facts and observations made by the Federation Admiral, plain and simple. “Economic pressure can be applied to make the Federation's displeasure known, while weakening the production sector of Caledon's military, in hopes of dissuading him of further conflict. The Federation will also not be aiding the Caledonian's should they take up arms, as well, in fear of violation of I.N.L.E.D Diplomatic law. And frankly? The Federation despises Caledon's slavery laws.”
[12:10:16]
CommanderCaedras regarded her for a few more moments to gauge her reactions and thoughts. His eyes shifted and changed, constantly moving with new data and observing her as though she were under a microscopic lense.
[12:41:57]The Architect
"It is to that matter exactly with which I discuss my concern. Emperor Balthazar, of the Akkadian Imperium, has countless times expressed his disagreement with sclabhai and other Caledonian customs. It is not a digression to speak of the way this ties in to the rule with which Brennus conducts his means for his empire. I represent ideologies quite opposite to that, as you must already know. You are also aware that Caledonian alliances are dwindling, and that is considerably obvious, yet Brennus does nothing to ascertain the reason. Akkadia will support Kallean efforts, though through these measures and in meeting with you, Governor-Admiral, we wish to avoid war with Caledon." Another sip of her tea, the aroma quite pleasant and calming, and a quick observation of the Commander's movements, then she would continue. "It was to be my suggestion that we proceed to subtly dismember trade connections, sanctioning certain economic sectors of Caledonian market, and limiting military involvement as well as movement and protection, to and with the Caledonian Empire. We may settle these exact terms through an accord that I will have prepared and forwarded to your personal terminal link. I understand that you owe your loyalty and position to Brennus and his empire; it is not my intention to start war, quite the contrary. I wish to send a message to the man who conducts his empire as if no one is watching. We live in a very large galaxy, full of many peoples. We conduct order as a group, and decide what is best for all as we see fit. Thus, consensus will determine the order and structure of our alliances." Briefly pausing, she took in the filtered air around her. Any sense that Cieran would have read from ehr would be of calm concentration and professionalism in the highest accord, not a flinch or sense of worry in any regard. Unflappable and full of directive and planning, she continued to conclude her ends. "I respect your skill and ability to discern well the decisions and proper courses for action in this.. dire time. I hope that you will consider the accord, and that we can keep it subtle, so that less suffer and so that war is avoided. The document I forward to your terminal is for our eyes and planning purposes only.. and I implore you to make changes necessary to your end, to see that all is considered. I however trust that you will entertain my strategies," she finished, looking to him as if he would have understood that she meant her plans were incredibly well detailed. After all, she was famous for this very purpose.