[Deneb Space Elevator] (Sisamsu's Occult Trinkets)

A brief skirmish between thriftiness and curiosity battled itself out in Tyoni's mind, but after some quiet grumbling he gave up 20 credits. There better be something good after this, he was not going to leave this shop empty handed.

"Lead the way, bruh."

[Mars] (Diner)

Shouting, screaming, scuffling. Nothing new at the Galactic Nations. Officially, he frowned upon this behavior but sometimes Munbeem found it refreshing. He doubted if anyone really took notice off him joining in the cheering and jeering when Wassingtowne and the Star Pact went at it. Better here than in space shooting, he thought.

All things must come to and end though, and it was no different for this session. Mnhiri wrapped up everything in a hurry, so Munbeem followed her lead and wriggled out with his entourage. Some time later he was at one of Mars' more high class dining establishment, absorbing some wine while sitting across from his Sirian Union counterparts. Finding it pushy to jump right to business when work just ended a few hours ago, Munbeem started their meeting with tales of home.

"So now he's chasing me around the kitchen island with a knife going, 'You've never had a tentacle cut off! You need to know what it feels like!' and I'm screaming for life and limb, like, 'Hell no I don't!' So yeah, the party was going great."

Diner, Mars — Azunn

Azunn chuckled as Munbeem related his anecdote, his caviar having gone untouched since the Spaceborn had begun the tale. "You know, if you ever tire of diplomatic business you should try becoming a comedian, Ambassador. You have a knack for it. Unfortunately, any stories I could provide would be much drier."

Diner, Mars — Cinder

Cinder smiled slightly at Munbeem's story, though she didn't comment on it or offer her own anecdotes. Her own indiscretions as a youth had seemed bold and daring at the time, but in the cold light of day she felt the tug of guilt, especially when she considered her parents' reactions. Although she would never take back the times she had chosen to stand up for those who couldn't defend themselves, the guilt was particularly strong in spite of everything when it came to one act of rebellion: her decision to join the CBRN Squadrons. Forcing herself to focus on her meal, she picked up a special piece of cutlery. It resembled a blunt, hollow metal cone with a handle. Holding it delicately, she firmly tapped the pre-made split in the shell of the lozenge shaped Kellsaran crustacean, causing the shell to open cleanly to reveal the yellowish flesh within. Setting down the cutlery, she added a traditional herbal sauce to the dish. Small things often helped her to keep her mind off of her hidden insecurities. Cinder kept an eye - or rather, an ear - on the discussion, however. After all, as Azunn's Chief of Staff and Kellsara's pseudo-diplomat it behoved her to remain abreast of anything that he may have missed.

Diner, Mars

"Maybe in another life." Munbeem gave the eight tentacled version of a shrug at the suggestion of potential as a comedian. He took another 'sip' of wine, gathering his thoughts while deciding how to best turn the discussion to more serious matters.

"So, are you paying off the nisi pirates to leave your shipping alone in Jotunn's space?"

Edited by Parable on Dec 22nd 2018 at 5:39:07 AM

[Deneb Space Elevator] (Petting Zoo) >>> (Station Central)

Yuki opened her mouth to respond, but was cut off by the chiming of her personal device. Transferring the quivering captain to her shoulder, she fished it out of her pocket, took a look at its screen, and looked back up at the Snailian farmer with a ferocious smile.

“There’s only one place we’re going,” she said. “And that’s down to the surface! C’mon, chief, get moving.”

“WHAT!” bellowed the farmer. “Half my stock is running wild because of you, and you’re not even going to help bring them back?!”

Yuki’s lip curled with disdain. “It’s not my fault you didn’t invest in better fencing.”

The furious farmer glared at her. “You’ll regret this!”

The XO brushed him off and, taking the captain in one hand, made a run for the elevator in the middle of the station.

(Sisamsu's Occult Trinkets) >>> (Station Central)

Before Tyoni could confirm the transaction, his device chirped and displayed a message from Yuki.

Elevator arriving soon. Get to middle or get left behind!

“Oh dear,” said the rickety service droid. “Am I correct in assuming you must be elsewhere? If you must go, I recommend visiting our main outlet down on the surface! The collection is larger, more diverse, and the the VIP Access Fee is only 18 Credits! 10% less! We look forward to seeing you again, valued customer.”

(Assuming Tyoni does not want to get left behind) Solaris joined him on his way out. After a couple of seconds of silence, she glanced over at him. “I may have been slightly harsh, earlier,” she said. “Sorry.”

(Every Cream) >>> (Station Central)

“Ha! Sounds neat,” said Linda. “Did you get to pet any of them?”

Before anyone could say anymore, they all got the same message on their respective devices.

Elevator arriving soon. Get to middle or get left behind!

“Well, time to go!” Linda stood up, and hurriedly pushed her chair back in.

“But I’m not finished!” Ninu said, aghast at the notion of leaving her ice cream behind.

“Then finish fast! You got the same message we did!”

With great reluctance, Ninu put down her spoon, reared back her middle head, and plunged it into the bowl, gobbling up the remaining ice cream.

Something she regretted almost instantly.

“WAAAAAAH! COLD! OH, THAT’S SO COLD!” she cried.

Linda snickered. “Nice,” she said. “Now hurry up, come on!”

[Deneb Convention Centre]

With the Choco-Con in full-swing, the convention centre was a bustling hive of activity, and the air smelled strongly of chocolate. Because of course it did. And it was easy to see why, with a myriad of delicious and questionably-nutritious chocolate-themed goods and services available all around, right from the start.

Yuki pulled off to the side, so as not to get in the way of all the other people getting off the elevator, and Navina fluttered around her, apparently re-energized by all the commotion of the convention.

“Okay, you motley bunch!” said the X.O. “Don’t wander off! We’re scheduled to meet the client right away, and it’s important to make a good impression. So I want you all on your best behaviour, or I’ll space you.”

Yuki led the crew through the convention centre, which looked more like a theme park than a trade fair. All around them were exciting the sights and sounds of a myriad of chocolate-themed goods and services. There was even a diversity of smells, as various stalls, tents, and pop-up stores displayed their experiments, pushing the limits of what could still be considered chocolate.

They passed by shops offering chocolate hot tubs, edible “chococlothes”, intricate chocolate sculptures, free lessons in the art of confectionary, fruits genetically imbued with the taste of chocolate, livestock that produced chocolate milk, and even a “choco-colosseum”, featuring chocolate weaponry and armour. There were other outlets too, for those seeking a break from the chocolate-themed everything. Fast food at reasonable prices, a certain seller of occult trinkets, and even a botanical garden, currently featuring an educational exhibit on “cocoa throughout the galaxy”.

None of which the crew would be able to stop and investigate.

Instead, Yuki led them all to a bizarre looking building, tucked away in the back of the convention centre, in an area reserved for just an exclusive few shops and showrooms. It was broad and immensely tall, made up of peculiar shapes and colourful towers that rose up to the ceiling. Dozens of frosted-glass windows offered tantalizing hints at a vivid wonderland within, and whimsical puffs of multicoloured smoke escaped from striped smokestacks, sometimes accompanied by bubbles.

It was like a fantasy castle.

And perhaps it was a fantasy as, upon closer inspection, a canny observer might notice that the building it not actually as tall as it seems to be. Its height was merely a optical illusion, created by using larger forms near its base and smaller forms near the top. The peculiar shapes, too, were largely the result of false walls and distracting decorations, tacked on to disguise the building’s true form, which was plain and boxy. It all worked quite well from afar, but apparently was not meant to be examined up close with a critical eye.

“I’m pretty sure this is the place,” said Yuki. “Somebody see if you can find a doorb-”

The front doors, tall and ornate, burst open abruptly. A He-Tai stood there, low to the ground as He-Tai tend to be, dressed in a tuxedo, a top hat, and clutching a fancy-looking cane. After a moment of silently observing his new guests, he flopped down the front steps on his belly, then stood on his hind legs, leaned on his cane and gestured to the building behind him.

“Welcome,” he said. “To my wonderful, mystical, magical Factory of Chocolate! You may call me Billy Wonkers. I am the owner of this fantastical establishment. Before we begin, do you have any questions?”

Yuki frowned. “That’s not your real name, is it?”

“Nonsense.”

“Uh, well, the name on the order is-”

“Is nonsense!” he insisted. “Billy Wonkers is my true name.”

Sensing an oncoming migraine, Yuki shut her eyes and rubbed her temples.

“Right, sure,” Navina chimed in. “But listen, we’re here about a delivery. You ordered a whole lot of chocolate, right? I just need you to sign the invoice and-”

“There will be time for business later!” said Billy Wonkers, eccentric business owner extraordinaire. “For now, join me on a tour through-”

The captain flew right up to his face. “SIGN. IT.” said not-so-eccentric business owner Navinadida Tael.

He flopped back down to all fours. “I will, I will!” he assured her. “But… Won’t you come inside first?”

[Mars] (GNHQ, General Assembly Chambers)

Ambassador Madeyladeyla Tincor sighed and, with his entourage, took flight once the Assembly Chambers had calmed down. Before they could leave, however, he noticed Kuz-Plak-Tu approaching his desk.

“Ah, ambassador,” he said. “These most recent results are a terrible shame, wouldn’t you say? It was quite close, though. Perhaps good sense and reason might have come through, if it weren’t for the blasted Amalah…” He sighed. “Well, in the meantime, what can I do for you?”

Mars, GNHQ, General Assembly Chambers

Kuz-Plak-To bowed her head as she approached Ambassador Madeyladeyla Tincor, nodding in response to his remark and giving what amounted - for a Rak-Girz at least - to a disappointed sigh. "Yes, yes they are indeed a shame - and they are part of why I'm here, I see you are one of the few who can see nuances amidst these extreme points of view, truly something largely lacking in this discussion" Having said that, the Emissary fell silent shortly - mostly anyway, with her mandibles still clicking every now and then before she continued "And, if I may, given you seem to be one of the... less..." Kuz-Plak-Tu hesitated as she spoke as this was nothing she ever thought she would say "Less chaotic ambassadors" Saying that, the Rak-Girz thought of the veritable shouting match at the end of the session "I'd like - if you'd allow - to work together with you" Having said her piece, Kuz-Plak-Tu fell silent again, a bit nervous - of course she wasn't showing that - at having been so open already, yet, given what she had seen earlier today, she believed that being open here would only be to all of their benefit in the end.

[Deneb Space Elevator]

Tyoni jerked his hand - and card - back as if pulling it from a fire. He scowled at the reveal of a cheaper membership right below them but said nothing, opting to silently turn around and hop out of the store.

His mood and ears chippered up however, when Solaris apologized.

"No prob, Doc!" he said brightly. "Find what you were looking for?"

Tyoni's mood after that alternated between hunger ("Totally a mood." he insisted to his viewers) and distraught, depending on whether they were nearing a salivating chocolate display or being forced further away from one by the ("Fascist!) captain. Why did they all have to go pick up this dude's bill? Were they Navina's retinue? An entourage to make her seem bigger? Why not let the the security team suffer with her? They were big enough to make anyone feel big, let alone a fairy.

His grumbling regarding astronautical tyranny ended however upon laying eyes on the castle. Tyoni's inner nine year-old led him to fully embrace the optical illusion of a medieval castle, and he stood gawking in delight at the wonderful display.

The illusion shattered with the voice of his scrooge of a captain turning down a tour of this world of pure imagination and demanding payment.

"Aw, come on, Cap!" Tyoni whined. "We can get the invoice when we leave. If anyone can make this trip worth while the candy man can!

Diner, Mars — Azunn

Azunn raised an eyebrow at Munbeem's question as he nursed his own alcoholic beverage. Straight to the point, I see. Well, it certainly beat having to wheedle the point out of someone over a tortuously long time frame. Setting down his glass, he said, "We do not and will not reward criminals for threatening civilians. That only encourages the problem. If you wish to know the answer, my friend, I suggest that you ask the Savages' ambassador. They would likely have the best idea of the whys and wherefores. Though a word of warning: you may wish to choose your words carefully. You saw what happened during today's debate - although in all fairness, it was a topic of great importance to them."

Diner, Mars — Cinder

Cinder remained out of the conversation at first. Of course, it was plainly obvious why the Savages' pirates weren't targeting the Union's shipping, but quirks of diplomacy sometimes made the simplest answers the hardest to give. Particularly when the answer didn't lend itself to easy solutions. Sensing an opportunity to speak up, she offered, "Of course, if there is anything that Kellsara - or the Sirian Union at large - can do to help you, please ask."

Next to her, Azunn nodded. She studied Munbeem's reaction carefully, waiting to see how he'd take such an offer.

Petting Zoo > Deneb Station Central — Erruan

Seeing no point in hanging around when her principal had already made a hasty exit, Erruan also beat a retreat toward the central elevator. That's probably coming out of my paycheck... she reflected sourly. The XO's stern reminder to be on their best behaviour didn't help her mood any - she was a professional, dammit, she was always on her best behaviour! She wasn't some freshly trained whelp yet to be blooded. Her long snout twitched occasionally as they passed by the various chocolate themed stores, though she ignored the enticing smells. Her head was on a swivel, her ears moving this way and that as she tuned out the hustle and bustle of the convention centre.

Her reaction to the fantastical 'castle' was relatively subdued, but the He-Tai bursting out of it startled her. She almost moved to try to tackle "Billy Wonkers" out of the way of her principals when she realised that the threat wasn't one at all. Personally, she just wanted to get her (likely severely reduced) pay and go back to the ship, but she wouldn't object if they were dragged along either.

Every Cream > Deneb Station Central — Headcase

Headcase devoured the remainder of her frozen treat with gusto. She'd had to eat in a hurry enough times to get rather good at it. Ninu's predicament was met with a sympathetic pat on the back (with just the teeniest push to help get her going). "Don't worry, I'm sure there's probably a cybernetic out there that can help with brain freeze! ...Probably. I'll look it up when we get back on the ship."

Unlike Erruan, the jovial kellsaran went to and fro, her attention grabbed by all of the wonderful attractions on offer. Of course, she made sure not to stray for too long or too far, in case the XO decided to make good on her threat. Upon seeing the castle, she gasped quietly in awe. Leaning down to whisper in Tyoni's ear, she said, "This is so cool...!"

She added to the doturi's wheedling by adding, "Yep! It's basically like... inspecting the premises! And anyway, it's not like we'll be back at this convention again any time soon, right?"

Edited by Flanker66 on Jan 8th 2019 at 9:56:22 AM

[Deneb Convention Center] (Factory of Chocolate)

“Fine, fine!” groaned the captain. “We’ll go on the stupid tour.”

“Marvellous!” Billy Wonkers rose back up to his hind legs. “Right then! Ahem. Come with me, and you’ll be-”

“Don’t you dare sing a song,” Yuki said with frown.

“What? I wasn’t going to!” And with that Wonkers waddled his way up the steps, back into the building.

Just inside the front doors was a waiting room of sorts, with comfortable sofas, a reception desk, and a couple of regular doors, one labelled “boardrooms” and the other labelled “FANTASTICAL WORLD OF PURE FASCINATION”, decorated with various stickers and baubles. Except for the latter door, it was all rather modern, office-like, and not terribly whimsical.

A robot, fully painted with an elaborate pattern of candies, hurried out from behind the desk. Unlike the one from the trinkets shop on the space elevator, this one had a rather natural gait and robust-looking limbs.

“Master Wonkers, sir, I believe I was in the midst of telling you-”

“Not now, Jetty!” bellowed the He-Tai. “We have guests!”

“Yes sir, but the business at hand, sir-”

“ Guests , Jetty!”

“Your partners will be most displeased-”

“It’s time for a tour, Jetty!”

The droid’s head was little more than a block with two lights on the front, and it observed the Horizon crew for a moment, a bizarre moment of silence passing as the two blue headlights of its expressionless face bore holes into into them.

“Ah yes, guests, of course,” the droid said at last. “My apologies, master. Valued guests, would you care for a muffin?”

Jetty opened up its chest to reveal a small oven within, containing a little plate with a handful of fresh muffins on it. The bot took the plate out and offered it. “Do be careful,” it said. “The plate is quite hot.”

“Yes, yes, take a muffin if you want,” said Wonkers. “But come, come! The main attraction is this way!”

He pushed open the doors to Pure Fascination and revealed a bright, new, verdant world filled with colour, joy and sweet smells! Strange, cartoony creatures of all shapes and sizes moved around in a landscape full of flowers, trees and vibrant mushrooms. Each of the funny-looking creatures had its own job to do, it seemed, and they each did so with dedication. Bulky, winged creatures flapped feathery wings as they carried large buckets high overhead, full of liquefied chocolate.

The buckets were emptied onto dozens of little trays by small, multicoloured birds holding miniature buckets, and enormous, caterpillar-like creatures walked around in wide circles, carrying the trays on their backs. While the trays were moving, fluttering, butterfly-like creatures used delicate little tools to shape and mould the chocolate into a variety of amusing and unusual shapes. Later on down the caterpillar, hovering creatures seemingly made of white smoke, like living clouds, blew on the newly-formed chocolate, rapidly cooling it into a fully solid state.

And then, at last, each chocolate was individually wrapped, with great care and attention, by squat, purple bipeds, who all bore a vaguely human appearance. The chocolates were then put in fanciful wicker baskets, which were in turn carried up into a hatch in the ceiling by little glowing creatures with gossamer wings.

“Those kinda look like Yaha,” remarked Linda, between bites of the muffin she’d snagged a moment ago. “Relatives of yours, cap’n?”

Navina scoffed. “As if my relatives would ever get real jobs.”

“Uh…”

Before that conversation could develop any further, Wonkers led the (allegedly) intrepid crew of the Horizon into the room. A long, winding path of vibrant, blue bricks twisted and curled through the area, always getting somewhat close to the strange and wonderful creatures, but never quite coming within arm’s reach.

“Please, come in!” said the strangest creature of them all, the dapper He-Tai who seemed to own the place. “Do stick to the path, however!”

Yuki stopped at the door. “You guys go on ahead,” she said. “I think I’ll wait here. This places creeps me out.”

“It is entirely harmless, I assure you!” said Wonkers.

But the X.O. just shook her head. “Theme parks aren’t for me,” she said.

Wonkers shrugged and led the rest of them down the path, talking all the while about the lore behind the various creatures that worked there.

“This place is awfully noisy…” Ninu commented as they walked, looking all around, two of her three mouths containing muffins.

“Whaddya mean?” said Linda. “It’s not so bad.”

“No, no, I mean the whole building,” Ninu clarified. “Past this room, in every direction, there’s a lot of clanking, grinding, stuff like that.”

“I don’t hear anything,” remarked Solaris, also holding a muffin. “But it makes sense that you’d be able to sense that. The noise from the machinery is probably vibrating the air and the walls quite a lot.”

“I guess this really is a factory after all,” said Linda. “Most of this place is probably assembly lines like this one, but with less whimsy. Hey, mister!” Linda rushed to the front of the group. “How much of the convention’s chocolate does this place produce?”

“I’m afraid that’s a secret,” Wonkers said with a chuckle. “But I will tell you that we are a major producer!”

Without skipping a beat, Linda jumped into her next question. “It looks like the, uh, ‘butterflies’ over there can shape the chocolate in all kinds of ways. I’m guessing you can adjust the material’s density, hardness and melting point too, right?”

“Yes indeed,” Wonkers said, puffing out his burly chest. “Our facilities can match all but the best choco-sculptors in the gal-”

Linda pointed at Tyoni. “Can you make a life-sized chocolate version of this guy?”

Wonkers hesitated. “Er… well… Hypothetically, but-”

“Oh man, I wanna see that! C’mon, you can just melt it back down afterwards, right? No big deal!” Linda turned to the rest of the crew. “You wanna see that too, right?”

Wonkers frowned for a moment and said nothing before swiftly changing the subject. “Feel free to sample any of the flowers that grow along the path, by the way! They’re candy-coated chocolate!”

[Deneb Space Dock] (C.S.S. Horizon Exterior)

The Horizon was at rest as it waited in the “parking lot” a short distance from the space elevator. It had only a skeleton crew aboard, as most of its usual inhabitants were either on the surface or in the station. In an effort to conserve energy, it was, like the vast majority of the vessels that surrounded it, in a low-power state, with little more than its life support systems and its lights on. With only its passive sensors active, large signatures or sudden spikes in energy would garner a response, but little else would.

And that was why it did not detect the modified escape pod that was carefully drifting towards its starboard airlocks. The tiny craft had no reactor, and the battery that normally would have powered its internal systems was connected elsewhere, and currently inactive. The much smaller power sources of the crew’s space suits or the juryrigged navigation system they were using were simply too faint to be picked up by passive sensors.

Nothing was detected from its engines, either, as they were not active. Instead, compressed atmosphere from the surface of Deneb was fired out in little bursts from hoses and canisters strapped to the surface of the craft.

With these methods, the pod was able to get to within point-blank range of one of the Horizon ‘s most vulnerable spots… At which point the crew flipped on the battery, activating the pod’s modifications. Before anyone aboard could realise what was happening, large “pincers” mounted over the pod’s entry hatch clamped onto the airlock’s external door, pierced the metal and began wildly emitting a wide range of E.M. radiation.

The crew picked up cutting torches and got to work on the door…

(Horizon Drone Bay)

The lights went out.

A moment later, they started to come back on, one by one, quite unevenly. Static crackled from the P.A. speaker in the room, then cut out abruptly, replaced by MACI’s synthetic voice.

“Your attention please,” she said. “We are being boarded by unauthorized beings. Most likely, they are here to rob us. Numerous ship’s systems are being jammed or have been damaged by the boarding action. Can I count on your assistance in this matter?”

[Mars] (GNHQ, General Assembly Chambers)

“Hm?” Ambassador Tincor remained fluttering in place with his entourage. “Well, good sense seems to be in short supply round here, lately, so I’m certainly open to the possibility of future cooperation. But what did you have in mind, exactly?”

Mesi immediately started freaking out when the lights suddenly went out, hastily grabbing her breathing mask and strapping it on extremely quickly despite the lights being out. Even as the power came back, she didn't calm down, looking around and breathing frantically. Until finally MACI spoke. "Oh, just boarders" Mesi said with a deep sigh of relief, taking the breathing mask off. "... What? Who want to rob broke freighter?" the nisi then asked, more confused by the current situation than anything.

"Who else still on ship?" Mesi then added, moving over to her things and searching through for something.

Edited by FirockFinion on Jan 15th 2019 at 4:11:05 AM

Chocolate Factory, Deneb Convention Centre — Erruan

Erruan quirked an eyebrow at Jetty's protestations, but said nothing. Apparently Wonkers wanted to give them a tour, and he'd do it even if he had to beat off Ataf's grasp, she bet. The security chief politely declined the offer of muffins as she followed the rest of the merry horde into the factory proper. The sight that greeted them almost made her pinch herself. What was this place? The rational part of her brain kicked in quite quickly, however, and like Ninu she came to the conclusion that this was essentially a very elaborate front for the real factory. The lupine sirian also made a note to never bring up the topic of the captain's relatives in her presence. Having a miserly paycheck was bad enough, but losing her job on top of that was something to be avoided.

Speaking of security... I wonder how everyone back at the ship is doing? She mentally shrugged. Eh, they've probably got it handled. Worst security problem you'd have to deal with here is someone leaving their personal computer unlocked.

Chocolate Factory, Deneb Convention Centre — Headcase

In contrast, Headcase took to proceedings like a duck to water. She snatched a muffin - briefly juggling it from hand to hand as she waited for it to cool - and munched on it as she went. "Wow..." she muttered, gawping at the splendour in front of them. The kell spent most of her time hanging on the He-Tai's every word, staring at the weird and wonderful sights like she had become a child again. Only Linda's suggestion of making a life size chocolate Tyoni snapped her out of it, and she nodded enthusiastically in response to her question, looking faintly ridiculous as she did so. With the muffin long gone she picked one of the flowers. She said, "Where did you get all of these from?" She motioned in the direction of the 'butterflies' and the other fantastic creatures that populated the factory floor. "I've never seen anything like it!"

Edited by Flanker66 on Jan 17th 2019 at 10:28:11 AM

Mars, GNHQ, General Assembly Chambers

Emissary Kuz-Plak-To clicked her mandibles shortly, gathering her thoughts, rather aware how important this would be for her, before proceeding "I have nothing exactly specific in my mind, although I was thinking about working together to propose more... more..." The mantis fell silent again shortly, still a bit baffled she even had to say that "More common sense bills - bills that do not pose false dichtonomies in outcome. Just as an example, of course." She paused shortly, mandibles clicking idly again "And umm... on a more... personal note, if you forgive me this question Ambassador but... is this how meetings usually go?"

Diner, Mars

"Good." Munbeem said."Just needed to get that out of the way. Now we can move on to real business."

Eyes that had been wandering about the diner redirected themselves to Azuun and Cinder. Previously expressive tentacles dropped and crossed each other, giving an air of seriousness the Woglindian only brought out on few occasion.

"I don't think speaking to the Savages will produce any meaningful results. We'd press and they'll, of course, deny it. But at this point the only conclusions one can make about the situation is that they're either looking the other way, or actively aiding these privateers or their government has even less control of the matter than they're letting on. Either way they're lying."

Munbeem spared an eye to glance at the door, as if expecting unwelcome customers at any moment.

"Now, you recall how the Legion War started with us starting forts and convoys and all that. What I'd like to see is another coalition set up to deal with these pirates in the same manner. And I'd like you to be the one to propose it."

“Do be careful, the plate is quite hot.”

Everyone had something that made them special, unique. The one aspect of Tyoni's personality that separated him from everyone else in the Known Galaxy was his pathological urge to interpret any warning of "Too hot" as a challenge. Thus, in an act of utter predictability to all who knew him, Tyoni's paw shot towards the hot plate and pressed down.

"Ow!" he shouted in an equally predictable reaction to his now burning paw.

Honor now satisfied though, Tyoni used his other paw to snatch a muffin and hopped along to the tour. He admired the genuine factory process they witnessed and was wondering if the little glowing things were Yaha or if there was something in those muffins when Linda pointed at him

“Can you make a life-sized chocolate version of this guy?"

Tyoni struck a pose, holding the half eaten muffin like Hamlet holding poor Yorick.

"Get my good side!"

Edited by Parable on Feb 10th 2019 at 10:04:22 AM

[Deneb Convention Center] (Factory of Chocolate)

Billy Wonkers frowned at the continuing suggestion that a life-sized chocolate dotur be made, and simply said “perhaps later” before brushing off the topic entirely.

“Well, you see, these marvellous beings come from hidden worlds scattered across the galaxy,” he began, in response to Headcase’s question. “These worlds are each a wonderful paradise in their own right, filled with natural splendour and gentle ecosystems! Why, some of things I’ve seen on my adventures to these worlds, they could easily be mistaken for magic!”

While Wonkers continued, Linda leaned over to Headcase. “These are all just machines,” she whispered. “They’re covered up by some clever animatronics and holograms, that’s all. The purple dudes over there are actors in makeup, too.”

The eccentric factory owner then interrupted himself, pulling a PDD out of his pocket, scowling at it, then hastily stuffing back and turning to his guests with a smile. “Where were we? Any more questions? Please, please, ask away! Ask anything you’d like!”

Linda raised a hand.

“Yes?”

“Chocolate dotur,” she said, again pointing at Tyoni.

Wonkers sighed. “Oh, alright, very well.”

With a wave of his hand, the whimsical assembly line adapted. The multicoloured bird-creatures gathered up a roughly 5ft glob of liquid chocolate, and the pseudo-butterflies got to work shaping it into a Tyoni-like form, the cloud-things solidifying the sculpture as it progressed.

“This will take a few minutes,” Wonkers said, wearily.

“Hm, is the tour over now?” said Navina. “If we’ve got a few minutes, I think I’ll head back and see how Yuki’s doing...”

“No, wait!” Wonkers reached out his hand abruptly, then sheepishly withdrew it. “Ah… Ahem… That is to say, the tour isn’t over yet! We’ve got a choco-log flume ride, and that leads to our Sweet Fulfillment centre! Plus, our delicious gift shop awaits!”

[C.S.S. Horizon Exterior] (Drone Bay)

“It is unlikely that our assailants are aware of the captain’s financial situation,” MACI replied. “Furthermore, the ship and its various components do possess some inherent monetary value. Thus, they are likely here to take easily dismantled, portable peripherals, such as computer parts, wall terminals, speakers, and the bartender.”

“Aside from yourself,” MACI continued. “12 Able Crewmen are still aboard the ship, plus the Mathis known as Artuur, who is in the cargo hold. Unfortunately, the last known positions of the crewmen are in their quarters, several decks down. As a result of the jamming, the blast doors, elevators and internal comms are all malfunctioning. Thus, you are unlikely to be able to recruit any reinforcements, and I am unlikely to find any replacements, should you be killed by the boarders. Therefore, I advise against dying.”

“Please proceed to the bridge as quickly as possible. You must manually activate the ship’s shields, and then begin rebooting the subsystems. Your odds of success are currently 48%, but will increase to 58% if you reach the bridge before the boarders have finished cutting through the airlock doors. Similarly, the likelihood of a fatal, violent altercation between yourself and the intruders is currently at 25%, but simulations suggest a 5% increase in probability per minute. Therefore, I advise that you hurry.”

[Mars] (GNHQ, General Assembly Chambers)

Ambassador Tincor chuckled. “False dichotomies might well be something we are stuck with, ambassador. An unfortunate side-effect of the way the GN is structured,” he said. “If you can think of something more specific in the future, I am certainly open to cooperating. As for your question…” The ambassador and some of his staff exchanged glances. “I suppose this hasn’t been a wholly unusual meeting. Generally, though, as I said, people generally want to talk about something more specific.”

“Now,” he continued. “If there’s nothing further, I really ought to get going…”

"Ship underestimate Nisi tinkerer" Mesi said, pulling her double barrel shotgun from her luggage, making sure the magazine was loaded, then pumping the slide to load in the chambers. "Tinkerer always have own toy ready" she added, before turning to head out of the drone bay.

"Ship tell fastest way to bridge on go, yeah?" Mesi called out as she ran, holding the shotgun close to her chest.

Diner, Mars — Azunn

Azunn listened quietly, looking perfectly aloof as Munbeem spoke. The Legion War wasn't a conflict that anyone would forget any time soon. Once the dust had settled, Sirian defence analysts had descended upon records like a horde of flies, hoping to tease out each and every little piece of information they could. It wasn't unusual to find someone even to this day using the war as a talisman for whatever point they wished to prove or disprove.

After a moment's pause, he said, "Why me?" Of course, he suspected he knew perfectly well why Munbeem wanted him to propose it, but he wanted to see how his counterpart would answer. Either he was correct, Munbeem deflected or lied, or he was wrong. It was worth a shot, at least.

Diner, Mars — Cinder

Cinder had elected to remain in the background herself, though instinctively her gaze followed Munbeem's as he looked toward the exit. Does he know something we don't? It wasn't an alarm bell ringing by any means, but it was another input, another hint that required careful collation to get a final answer. Everyone at the table knew that the Savages would indeed be unlikely to own up to any pirate activity, but it was just another stage in the dance of diplomacy. Rarely, if ever, did one just blurt out a direct answer. Rather it was concealed under layers, each needing to be peeled away before the direct answer could be given.

Sometimes she wondered if she was still the right choice for this. Of all the people they could have sent, they sent me?

And yet the memory of her superior's conviction came to her. It wasn't so much the other kell's argument that swayed Cinder as the force of her belief - she didn't want to let her down, even retroactively. It was a familiar feeling, a constant, small refrain in the background radiation of her life. And Cinder didn't quite know how to feel about that.

Wonka's Wonker's Marvellous Chocolate Factory, Deneb Convention Centre — Erruan

Erruan looked more than a little sceptical of the chocolate factory owner, but decided to keep her thoughts to herself.

Chocolate Factory, Deneb Convention Centre — Headcase

Headcase was suitably enthralled by Billy's answer. She could see the splendour of the vistas Billy was painting clearly in her mind's eye. Oh, to be able to partake in such splendid advent - and then Linda had to go and ruin it. She whispered back acidly, "Don't ruin it for me."

The brief intrusion of reality was forgotten, however, as Billy set his workers to the task of creating a chocolate Tyoni. Tearing her eyes off of the sight, she exclaimed, "A choco-flume ride?! Hell yeah!"

Diner, Mars

"Because there's no way in frozen hell that we're going to get popular approval if the Savages object. Which they were most certainly do if anyone who isn't you says we want to put big ships with big guns around their stars."

Munbeem brought up three tentacles, as if making the case with his limbs.

"When we brought our case against the Legion, it was effectively a done deal. We'd spent almost a year collecting evidence and were surer than sure they were behind this..." Munbeem flailed for an expression, "this 'secret war' or whatever. Point is the coalition presented the GN with a clear cut case and we got the support we were looking for with no real objections to worry about. The galaxy was behind us."

"But we don't have that option here. For one, this isn't the frontier we're dealing with. Before we could investigate wherever we wanted, now we got the bureaucrats watching our every move around every civilized star. Nobody wants warships just cruising around in their backyard. If we go and say we want to patrol nisi pirate space, we're getting very close to the Savages saying we're violating their sovereignty. Just on principle that'll raise alarm bells with everyone."

"You can see the conundrum; The Savages will raise hell if we go over there without clear cut evidence that they're up to something - not saying they are, mind you - but we can't get that evidence unless we go over there. And we're not going to get the support we did last time if we don't have a rock solid reason."

"Unless, and this is where you come in, the Savages don't object. They like you. They're like little nocts munching the moss off bigger nocts. It won't come off as an insult to their national pride if Siria is the one calling for the galaxy to help the Savages fend off pirates. What we want is for you to convince them to let this happen. They don't have to say yes, they just have to not say no."

[C.S.S. Horizon] (Interior)

“Acknowledged,” said MACI. “The presence of an unregistered firearm has increased your odds of surviving a violent altercation by 12.335%. Please note, however, that our assailants will likely be armed with more contemporary weapons, though I do not have enough data to speculate on what kind of protection they may have, if any. Upon exiting the Drone Bay, turn right and proceed straight ahead for 9.5 meters to reach the bridge.”

Mesi would only get about halfway there before her personal device buzzed frantically. “Stop immediately.” MACI’s voice emanated from the device, speaking in a hushed and urgent tone. “Around the corner to your right is the compromised airlock. The boarders have progressed faster than anticipated, and they will breach the interior door momentarily. Internal sensors are limited, but I detect at least three hostile life forms.”

“Should you choose to attack them, I estimate that your initial volley has a 75% chance of incapacitating one target. This will alert the other targets, however, decreasing both your success rate and your survival odds, which I calculate will decrease continuously at a rate of 5% per second,” MACI continued. “Alternatively, remain hidden by opening the ventilation duct at your feet and crawling to the bridge.”

[Deneb Convention Center] (Factory of Chocolate, Fantastical World of Pure Fascination)

“Yes, yes, indeed!” Wonkers said, pleased by Headcase’s enthusiasm. “Now, come this way! Quickly, quick-”

“I’m afraid not,” called a voice from behind the group. A rather burly human woman was walking down the whimsical pathway towards them, her severe expression mostly matched by the dark colours of her uniform, although the word “SECURITY”, written in the native Snailian language of Goota and emblazoned across the midsection of her body armour in bright, yellow letters, certainly stood out.

“The only place anyone will be going is back to the waiting room with me,” she said.

“Who the heck are you?” asked Navina.

“I am Customer Service Representative Joycia Rivis, from the Xenocon Security Corporation,” she said, then looked over at Wonkers and, as she cracked her knuckles rather dramatically, added “Rules & Enforcement Division.”

Wonkers just scoffed at her and stepped forward. “Ridiculous,” he said. “Just what is this about?”

“We got a call a couple of minutes ago, and I’m afraid a Class 2 Infraction appears to have occurred on the premises,” she said. Her tone was clipped and informative, and just a little impatient. “I would be happy to tell you more if you would all just accompany me back to the waiting room…”

“What’s a Class 2 Infraction?” Whispered the captain.

“It’s, like, murder, assault, armed robbery, stuff like that,” Linda whispered back.

“That’s Class 2? Then what’s Class 1?”

“I think it’s insider trading, bank fraud, and counterfeiting,” said Linda. “That sort of thing. At least, that’s what I’ve heard.”

“The Snailians certainly have clear priorities…” Solaris muttered, dryly.

Customer Service Representative Joycia Rivis loudly cleared her throat to silence all the whispering. “If you’ll please come with me,” she repeated, only for Wonkers to cut her off.

“How absurd!” declared Wonkers. “Nothing like that has happened here! I would have known about it!” He turned his back and began walking away. “Everyone, come with me! We have a tour to complete!”

“If you do not cooperate,” Rivis warned. “I will be forced to invoke the Criminal Enforcement & Debt Collection Act of 3545.”

Navina zipped over to Linda’s shoulder and all but hid behind her. “Wh-what’s the Debt Collection Act of 3545?” she said.

Wonkers stopped in his tracks, and looked over his shoulder warily. “You wouldn’t…”

“Article 6, subsection B,” Rivis recited. “Upon confirmation of noncompliance with the Act, Customer Service Representatives are hereby authorized to increase the price of any and all utilities, goods and services provided to the noncompliant entity by the Xenocon Corporation by up to 1,000,000% per minute until compliance is confirmed,” she said, sounding as though she gave this same reminder to other people at least twice a day. “This, as you know, includes things like electricity, potable water, breathable air…”

Wonkers’ nostrils flared and he turned back around. “Fine!” he said. “But you’ll be hearing from my lawyers about this.”

Rivis, utterly nonplussed, just motioned towards the path back to the waiting room.

“I’m terribly sorry, everyone,” he said, with a sigh. “But I guess we’ll have to cut the tour short…”

(Factory of Chocolate, Waiting Room)

Yuki sat in the waiting room, looking a bit pale and fidgeting nervously. A dapper Jiptohr in a smart suit and tie spoke to her in a hushed tone of voice, and Wonkers’ droid helper, Jeffy, stood nearby and just generally made a fuss. On the opposite side of the room stood two human, a man and a woman, both very well-dressed and who gave off an aura of being far too rich to really care about whatever it was that was going on here.

Upon hearing Wonkers and company approach, the Jiptohr walked over to them with a broad smile and a spring in his step. “Hello, hello!” he said, cheerily. “Terribly sorry for the inconvenience, everyone! I am Senior Investigative Officer Samsudu, of the Xenocon Security Corporation’s Infraction Investigation Bureau. You are probably wondering you have been gathered here today, yes? Well, I’m afraid there’s been a bit of a murder, you see. Quite a gory one, in fact. Terrible, very sad,” he said with a chuckle.

“Normally, you would be detained here for a few hours, then forbidden from leaving the planet while the investigation is ongoing. Luckily for you, I have already solved the case,” he said, quite proudly.

Rivis stepped forward and spoke to him very quietly. “We haven’t even been here half an hour and you’ve already solved it?”

“Yes,” Senior Investigative Officer Samsudu assured her. “It’s quite easy if you know where to look.”

Rivis sighed but said nothing more.

Samsudu returned his attention to the “intrepid” crew of the Horizon and continued. “Even so, you would normally still be detained for a bit, just as we wrap things up. However, I’ll cut you a little deal,” he said, beaming. “You seem like a canny bunch of spacefaring adventurers. If any of you can also solve the case—or even just come close!—I’ll let you all go right away. What do you say?”

“Seriously?!” Rivis looked at him in disbelief and Samsudu just nodded eagerly in return.

Rivis sighed again, more exasperatedly this time, and muttered “why did I ever leave Mars?”

“Indulge an aging detective, won’t you?” Samsudu said to the crew. “I’ll answer any questions you have, of course. And just let me know when you’d like to see the crime scene for yourself!”

GN DAY 3

News in the galaxy!

• Shots fired in the Izera-Sakta DMZ!
  • 58 Izeran, 60 Saktans reported injured in brief scuffle between military vessels.
• Izeran Empress Tanis Szera, Saktan First Minister Alael T'Sai to meet today on Mars for “emergency negotiations”, to be hosted at the GNHQ.
  • Queen of Mars, Amelia Dexus, and Martian Prime Minister Maxir Shulo to personally mediate talks.
• Unconfirmed reports of Yohzhu vessels “harassing” ships near the edges of the Known Galaxy.
  • Numerous news outlets have received reports from freelancers and independent merchants claiming that their ships were intercepted, boarded for “inspection” before being let go.

[Mars] (GNHQ, General Assembly Chambers)

“Order, order! Settle down, everyone!” Mnhiri called.

The GN General Assembly was never quite the centre of enlightened, level-headed debates that its founders had envisioned it as, but even by its usual standards of fussing and heckling, today was especially bad. As if a spike in Yohzhu activity wasn’t bad enough, the recent conflict at the Sakta-Izera border had put everyone on edge, not only because it threatened to shatter the relatively peaceful state of the galaxy, but because nearly every nation in the GN had diplomatic ties to Izera, Sakta or both. Most notably, mutual defence agreements…

A full-scale war between Izera and Sakta would put most of the galaxy in the very awkward position of having to either go back on their very public promise to help an allied state or get involved in what was widely considered to be a civil war gone cold. There had been other affairs originally scheduled for today, but the ambassadors’ enthusiasm for these things had bottomed out before the session had even started. A quick round of votes later, and suddenly the Assembly was debating how to address the Izera-Sakta matter, if at all.

“I think I can safely say that we are all interested in preventing the tension at the border from spiraling out of control,” resumed Wassingtowne Union ambassador Gerey Robern, having been interrupted a moment ago. “Therefore I think we should consider a wide range of options including, but not limited to, a multinational peacekeeping force! That is all I will say for now. Thank you, Madam Chairwoman.”

Mesi stopped when prompted, but as the computer spoke, Mesi shook her head a bit. "Why ship keep speaking in numbers? Mesi speak in words, not numbers!" Mesi hissed back in her own hushed tone. She still went with MACI's advice though, carefully and expertly opening the vent cover and climbing inside, before closing it. "Crawling in tight spaces is gleep thing, not nisi thing" the nisi complained quietly as she moved along towards the bridge.

• Deciding to be bold, Warlord Ming Hotspirit openly and publicly declared that the Savages refuses to uphold the GN Resolution 611, and will continue to do everything in their power to uplift any primitive species found within the Savages' territory, including military conflict with any forces sent by the GN to stop them. She also condemned all 9 supporting nations as enemies of the Savages' people, and further condemned the GN as a whole for, as she quoted, "allowing such a vile, detestable, and immoral resolution into vote in the first place."
  • Public support for the Warlord's position was nearly unanimous among the nisi, with over 95% of Female nisi in favor of it. Gleep support counted in at only 63%, with many stating that while they did still disagree with the GN resolution, they did not think that opposing the GN on the matter was a good idea.
• As recordings of Bykata's sarcastic remark about nisi pirates made it to nisi space, many nisi of course thought it was hilarious, and in the Savages' local internet, many memes were made in mockery of ambassador Dakess Thalcard. It also eventually made way to actual nisi pirates, who also found it hilarious.
  • Two days later, news got out that a sirian cargo transport on way to Jotun was stopped by a known nisi pirate vessel. However, the ship was not fired upon or boarded; instead the pirates simply had the transport hold position while the pirates took pictures of themselves (with their helmets on, so as to not openly reveal their identities) with the transport visible in the background. Many of these pictures also ended up in the Savages' local internet, with joking captions about following ambassador Bykata's orders. After around 34 minutes, the pirates left the transport vessel, who were able to make it to Jotun without further incident.

Going along with Hotspirit's direct orders of being in protest of the GN, Bykata had herself and her accompanying staff arrive to the assembly in swimsuits, as a way to show that the Savages would not respect the organization enough to show up in traditional formal attire. Bykata's own choice was a black and white striped two piece bikini, with a skirt on the bottom piece, as was typical of nisi women's clothing. Bykosi had a green one-piece suit, also with a skirt attached. Even their accompanying security wore swimsuits, though still had their weapons and personal shield generators as well. The two gleep keeping records had shower caps on their heads.

"Nothing like the threat of an actual war to distract them from the issues of our pirates, hm?" Bykosi commented quietly to her cousin.

"Yes, but where do you think this 'peacekeeping force' would be pointed to next? They would not disband such a force after dealing with that border issue, and they would have the perfect excuse to bring those ships into our space supposedly for the pirates, but actually for something else" Bykata whispered back.

Impressed by her cousin actually thinking ahead that much for once, Bykosi thought for a moment then nodded. "Ah yes, all sorts of spy surveillance and espionage possibilities... Along with trying to force us to comply with 611" Bykosi agreed. Bykata simply gave her own short nod of acknowledgement. For the moment, she stayed seated, and glanced to their sirian counterparts, waiting to see what they would do.

SU News Roundup!

"A well-informed Union is a well-armed Union!"

• UniSig announces record profits
  • Analysts believe this is driven by the computing giant's recent acquisition of Reshama Cybertronics, a cybernetics firm.
• Detuunsel Research Outpost scientists to receive prestigious prize
  • Aeturrein-Setannren Award given to research team for "outstanding achievement in superluminal physics".
• Exeirranir Dynamics and Ateg Precision Optics partner for collaborative project
  • "Accuracy will be unparalleled," APO chairwoman says about new markswoman optic.

General Assembly, GNHQ, 3rd Day — Azunn

Azunn gazed out at the assembly with what he was sure was the beginnings of a headache forming. Of all the times for the Izeran-Saktan DMZ to flare up, it had to be now? Dealing with the Savages would have been potentially stressful at the best of times, but now he had to deal with the risk of getting dragged into a major conflict. The SU had affirmed its support for Sakta officially in the form of a mutual defence agreement, and assisted them under the table, but it was understood by both sides that the SU wouldn't break its neck for Sakta either (and equally, nor would Sakta break its neck for the SU). Worse yet was the rumours about the Yohzhu Empire harassing other nations' shipping. If they were true then there was a non-zero chance they'd gradually turn up the heat.

The Savages, meanwhile, were unpredictable at the best of times. But in situations like these - beyond their friendship with his nation, among some other things - one could never be truly certain what they'd do. Some news outlets reported a minor story about a Sirian cargo transport en route to Jotun being stopped by pirates for a photo opportunity. Azunn had no doubt in his mind that this was a veiled jab at the piracy issue. More pressing was their response to Resolution 611.

Apparently the Savages delegation decided to attend the GA in swimsuits, of all things. Well, that's going to be a first in the history of this august body, he reflected grimly. Sensing an opportunity to speak, once the Wassingtownian ambassador finished Azunn stood up. "Thank you, Madam Chairwoman. I concur with my honourable colleague," said Azunn. "An issue with international implications such as this should be dealt with multilaterally - the sooner we can resolve tensions, the less likely it is that it will spiral out of control. Furthermore, by doing so we can ensure that all sides feel they have been treated justly."

General Assembly, GNHQ, 3rd Day — Cinder

Cinder had been maintaining a state of zen-like calm as the day had progressed. The behaviour of the Savages had been trying, to say the least, but in some respects it was to be expected: they were, after all, an uplifted species themselves, and Resolution 611 could easily have been interpreted as an attack on their very self-image.

As for the Saktan-Izeran confrontation, though Cinder wasn't holding her breath given previous (less violent) flare-ups on the DMZ, she hoped that their common decency would win out. Or, failing that, the pressure the international community could exert upon them.

Waiting Room, Chocolate Factory — Erruan

Erruan had been surprised by the appearance of the security guard - sorry, Customer Service Representative - though she found Joycia's little bit of theatrics rather unimpressive. A real professional would have no need to big up the fact they were involved in law enforcement.

And now they were stuck in the waiting room, waiting for this whole thing to get resolved. At long last, the Senior Investigative Officer gave them the most inexplicable offer that Erruan had ever heard in her life. Although she was sorely tempted to decline the detective's offer, Erruan suspected it would be faster and easier if they just went along with it. "I can't speak for anyone else, but fine. What's the background to this murder?"

Waiting Room, Chocolate Factory — Headcase

Headcase fidgeted in her seat, watching proceedings. Though she was hiding it well, an astute observer would have noticed the classic body language of an agitated kell: Headcase was leaning slightly in the direction of the nearest exit. A murder?! That was the last thing she had expected when she'd been whisked away on this magical tour of wonder.

When the SIO made her offer, Headcase looked pleadingly at the rest of the group. "Please just go along with it, I want to be away from this murder ASAP. I don't want to see or even think about it!" She shuddered slightly.

Edited by Flanker66 on May 24th 2019 at 11:23:25 AM

Woglindian Headlines

Soccer Riot Between Dazzling and Shimmer Fans After Tie Game Destroys Three Building - Langrange Times

Adopt A Noct Day Sets New Record, Pet Shelters Report - Daily Senenovu

Mayor of Ajora's Sector 3 Murdered in Politically Motivated Assassination - Ajora Post

Turkey's Reunion Tour Draws Cheering, Emotional Fans - Entertainment Forever

With half his eyes on news from home, and half on the international reports, Munbeem started forming his idea on how today would turn out. Shooting between Izera and Sakta already turned his mood sour. For God's sake, what they hell was the point when the real enemy was right out there hunting along the border as we speak!

Reading the story again, he focused another eye of the participants of the the negotiations being held today. Weren't the empress and queen like gal pals or something? He could have sworn hearing something to that effect. He made a mental note to check that with his staff.

More reading. Damn. He'd bet money on the Dazzlings winning. More reading. His cousin would probably be interested in the gun thing from Siria. More reading. He pitied the sucker who got sent to be Woglinde's representative to the Savages. Do we even have an ambassador to the Savages? In any case, he could practically see the spooked investors bailing on any trade with the rogue state at light speed.

And that was when Bykata walked in wearing a swimsuit. Munbeem looked over to Azunn to see what he would say about his erstwhile ally's violation of protocol. Azunn chose to ignore it, focusing on the more pressing matter of the fighting between Izera and Sakta. If that was the way he wanted to play it, Munbeem would follow his lead for now.

Actually, now that he listened more intently, Munbeem decided not the follow the others in this case. Rising after Azunn and opening with the traditional thanks towards the chair, Munbeen spoke his own mind.

"Friends! We all want peace, but this talk of an international force is premature. Talks to settle this crisis are commencing this very day. Let us not spook the relevant parties by looking too spooked ourselves."

Waiting Room, Chocolate Factory

"Like if you want us to solve this murder! Comment if you want us to get the hell out of here!" Tyoni said to his followers.

Enough run ins with the law had taught him long ago to have his eye recorders activated the moment security made their presence loudly known. Regardless of how well the situation turned out, having camera footage to verify his side of the story always proved a good idea.

Seeing as how these situations could go south or east very fast ("South is people getting shot or you getting arrested. East is just boring police paper work." he once told a head of Ninu's he thought was paying attention.) Tyoni opted not to live stream this occasion. He did not even pay attention to which option the viewers were choosing, but then he reasonably confident which choice would be made. Really, was it even a choice?

"Who doesn't want to solve a murder mystery?" He said aloud, oblivious to the trembling Headcase beside him.

Damn. He so wished he had his bong with him. It would look so good to pose with it, looking like the classical detectives from the pre-Occupation era.

'''

[C.S.S. Horizon] (Interior, bridge)

The vent was not intended as a means of travel, but it was spacious enough for Mesi to move around in without too much difficulty. And it was surprisingly free of dust, too. As she crawled, she would hear heavy footsteps above her; the boarders, no doubt. They didn’t seem to be in a hurry to get anywhere, so seemingly, the plan to hide in the vents had been a successful one.

Soon enough, Mesi would find herself at the end of the duct. The bridge was silent and dimly lit, though its various consoles still had their controls illuminated, and their screens displaying some old-timey screensavers.

“You have done an admirable job of crawling through the ventilation system,” MACI said through Mesi’s personal device. “You must now simply proceed to the tactical console, carefully remove the primary processor board, and replace it with a spare from the storage container directly underneath the console,” she said.

“Then, simply reactivate the shields. I will need several minutes to reboot all the affected systems. Please be advised, however, that this will likely alert the intruders to your presence. There is a high probability that they will hasten their advance towards the bridge. I will lock the doors, but your survival odds will still be affected. You have vocalized your dislike of ‘numbers’, so I will refrain from quoting your exact odds. They are not ideal, however,” MACI continued. “I suggest you prepare for a conflict. Alternatively, return to the vent when your repairs are complete, and hide.”

[Deneb Convention Center] (Factory of Chocolate, Waiting Room)

Senior Investigative Officer Samsudu nodded. “Admittedly, I was hoping for a bit more enthusiasm,” he said, stroking his scaly chin with one clawed hand. “I suppose canny spacefaring adventurers aren’t what they used to be. They rarely are, these days. Oh well, no matter,” he continued.

“The victim is one Kroda Soergga. A small-time farmer, supplying meat, eggs and dairy to various businesses in the local stellar neighbourhood. Looking into his background a bit, I have found that he was a long-time business partner of Mr. Wonkers, and…” He waggled his surprisingly bushy eyebrows at Erruan with a knowing look on his face. “As of earlier today, an acquaintance of yours,” he said. “And notably, of Ms. Kirishima as well. I understand there was a bit of a conflict between yourselves and Mr. Soergga, is that right? Back on the space elevator?”

Yuki looked up briefly, but quickly returned her gaze to her lap. “I didn’t murder the guy,” she muttered. “Obviously…”

Samsudu continued on. “It is worth noting that Ms. Kirishima is the one who discovered the body, and the one who called the Security Corporation. It is also worth noting that she is one of very few people who could have been at the crime scene at the victim’s time of death, and given that she was in the waiting room alone, she has no alibi. The other prime suspects are also here in this room.”

He looked over at the two well-dressed humans on the opposite end of the room, as if expecting them to introduce themselves. The woman glared at him, while the man was clearly absorbed in his personal device. Neither of them said anything.

“Ah well,” Samsudu sighed, turning back to Erruan and Tyoni. “I suppose wealth does erode manners after a certain point, wouldn’t you agree? Quite a bourgeois attitude. Anyway, these are Minerva Scott and Robin Brunswick. Wealthy investor-types, quite famous around these parts — though, perhaps infamous is a better word? — and major stakeholders in Mr. Wonkers’ company. They too were relatively close to the crime scene at the time of the murder, but they are also each other’s alibi. They both claim to have been in a meeting room at the time, waiting for Mr. Wonkers to show up.”

Samsudu stroked his chin again. “That’s the basics, I think. Anything else you’d like to know? Please, please, don’t be shy! No stupid questions in the pursuit of justice, you know.” He ran his fingers along his lush, bushy, handlebar mustache for a moment. Jiptohr do not generally grow facial hair, so perhaps it was fake? “Oh,” he said. “And also, the droid was wandering around the area at the time as well.”

“Hurry up and solve the mystery!” The captain whispered, urgently fluttering back and forth from Erruan’s head to Tyoni's. “Let’s get out of here before the murderer strikes again! Or worse, before Detective Mustache over there changes his mind and decides to keep us here for paperwork and questioning!”

“I wonder if a coroner has been by yet?” Solaris pondered. “Perhaps I could examine the body? I’m pretty familiar with Snailian anatomy. Well… Familiar enough…”

“I bet it was the butler,” Linda commented, idly. “It’s always the butler.”

Ninu quivered in place next to Headcase.

Yuki remained in her seat, looking anxious and uncomfortable.

[Mars] (GNHQ, General Assembly Chambers)

The Savages delegation’s choice of attire was met with a mixed reaction from the rest of the ambassadors. Some levelled curious stares, others withering glares, and there was more than a little snickering from all around. After the initial shock, however, most seemed content to just not address the Swimsuit Brigade and continue with business as usual. Most being the operative term.

For her part, Mnhiri was not especially religious, but as the session had begun and the ambassadors had filed in, she’d sent up a silent little prayer to anyone who’d listen, asking for strength. That was a few minutes ago now, and she was beginning to think that maybe it would be worth fully committing to atheism, as there didn’t seem to be any gods willing to help her through the day.

“The Chair recognizes the honourable ambassador from the Infinite Burrow!” she said, sounding as professional and dignified as ever, despite her internal exasperation.

Ambassador Melacaura Genisatia slithered his way up to the podium. “I agree with all of the sentiments expressed so far,” he said with his center head. “This flare-up along the Izera-Sakta border poses potential issues for us all, but the honourable ambassador from Woglinde is quite right in that we ought not be too hasty. These is no need for any kind of force of arms — peacekeepers or otherwise — before negotiations have even begun in earnest. It would be inappropriate, I feel, for the GN or any kind of international coalition to intervene before the two states involved have had a chance to resolve their issues themselves. Let us keep talk of a ‘force’ of any kind relegated to a worst-case scenario, after the proper negotiations have already happened. Thank you, Madam Chairwoman.”

Ambassador Genisatia made his way back to his seat, and the Chair called the next speaker to the podium. “The Chair recognizes the honourable ambassador from the Ankara Principalities!”

Ambassador Bossak Kron got up to speak, his pristinely pedicured toe claws gently clacking against the floor as he walked. “Fellow ambassadors, I must say I am somewhat disappointed by all this hesitation,” he began. “The fact of the matter is the Izera-Sakta DMZ is a powderkeg, and it always has been. And sooner or later, we will not be able to douse it in time, and it will engulf the galaxy in an inferno of violence,” he said.

“Even if the negotiations go well today, without some kind of long-term solution, we are only delaying a war, not preventing one. And while I am well aware of the reputation my country has, a war of the type and scale that I am referring to would be dreadfully inconvenient for everyone involved,” he continued, completely serious. “Thus, I believe that some kind of international military presence in the region would serve as both a more effective barrier to conflict than the DMZ, and possibly as a deterrent to the escalation of any conflict that might arise anyway. This would give us ample time and opportunity to arrive at a long-term solution. Thank you, Madam Chairwoman.”

Ambassador Kron returned to his seat amidst a great deal of murmuring from the other ambassadors. Perhaps some of them were off-put by the notion of a large — potentially Jiptohr-led — not-explicitly-a-peacekeeping force of military ships and personnel just hanging around a region of space they were not normally seen in, deterring anyone from getting into trouble… Regardless of whether or not these concerns were unfounded, the business of the GN continued on.

Many ambassadors eyed the Izeran and Saktan delegations conspicuously, assuming one or both of them would want to respond to what the Principalities ambassador had just suggested. But both delegations seemed oddly taciturn today...

“The Chair recognizes the honourable ambassador from the Mighty Amalah Nation!”

Ambassador Zentri Zera Awag scuttled his way up to the podium. “Really?” he began. “I mean, really ? If I have to be the only one here with enough backbone to say what needs to be said, then I will be. And I say this despite being an arthropod!”

He then levelled an accusatory claw at the Savages delegation. “Such a casual manner of dress is a blatant sign of disrespect! Here we are discussing the fate of the galaxy, weighing the possibility of the first large-scale conflict since the founding of the GN, and these fools cannot even be bothered to dress appropriately! We need only look to their recent conduct to see that this is part of a larger pattern of disrespect. I suspect that even the Yohzhu hold the GN in higher regard than the Savages do! Why are they even here? I was under the impression that the GN was an organization of some importance, but apparently, any group of hoodlums and hooligans with a Jump Drive can join!”

Many other delegations had begun to groan and complain when the nature of Ambassador Awag’s speech had become clear, perhaps forseeing the disruptive effects it would undoubtedly have on the assembly. The volume of the complaints, and the number of complainants, grew as he continued, but rather than stopping, he simply raised his voice and kept going.

“But of course, the Savages wouldn’t be here at all without their Sirian benefactors!” He said, scarcely heard above the objecting crowd. “Why do you not say anything, Sirians? Why do you not stop them? Is this a tacit endorsement of their behaviour? Is…?”

Ambassador Awag had more to say, but by then the rest of the assembly had evidently had enough. Several delegations were on their feet, and all the yelling drowned out the Amalah ambassador completely. The sharp, intense ring of Mnhiri’s bell sliced through the noise like a blade, quickly draining the energy from the room.

“That’s quite enough of that,” said the Chairwoman. “Ambassador, you are out of order. Return to your seat immediately.” With an imperious harrumph , the ambassador did as he was told. Suppressing a sigh, Mnhiri resisted the urge to roll her eyes, and called up the next ambassador.

Edited by Blackfire667 on Aug 2nd 2019 at 7:56:53 AM

Mesi looked a bit offended. "Mesi is tinkerer; of course Mesi know numbers. Numbers important for tinkerer work" Mesi said defensively as she easily moved through the dark room using the light of her personal device. "But tinkerer numbers simple, mean important things. Like number of barrels on gun, or rockets in ship. Tinkerers not talk about people with numbers about things like living or dying" the nisi continued, more thinking out loud at this point rather than actually talking to the ship, as she moved over to the tactical console and skillfully removed the cover plate on the front of the console.

"It like stupid joke some humans tell of Mesi. About Mesi being cat of Schro- Schordin- Schree- man with cat in box that is dead and alive!" Mesi continued, giving up on trying to remember the correct pronunciation, as she started to remove the primary processor board. The one thing Mesi was definitely not heeding about the ship's instructions was caution; Mesi was careful in so much as not doing harm to any of the other pieces besides the processor board she was removing, but not at all for the board itself. In fact once she had it out, she just about tossed it over her shoulder as if it was trash. "Mesi is not stuck in box being both dead and alive, and Mesi never mess with poison gas!" the nisi yelled, her eyes going wide while her pupils went narrow, and her ears pinned down to either side of her head. She breathed in and out of her nose rapidly while staring at nothing for a few long seconds, before slowly relaxing.

"... Mesi is Mesi. Mesi Nightpack" Mesi muttered to herself as she looked for the replacement processor board.

Bykata felt no emberassment from the snickering of other ambassadors; she was proud of her body as a nisi woman and felt no shame in showing it off a little. In fact, taking off the swimsuit and wearing absolutely nothing was a valid option in her mind, should the occasion call for it. Even her scars were something of a proud thing for her now; proof that she had actually been in battle, and wasn't all talk.

As for how the actual session was going after arriving, she couldn't help but frown in some disappointment when Azunn spoke of the Sirian Union's stance. "I didn't think the Union would so easily agree to the idea of an international task force" Bykata muttered.

"I don't know, it is just like them to prefer military solutions. Expedient military solutions, especially" Bykosi reminded her cousin.

"Yes, but agreeing to a solution that involves foreign military forces moving into another nation's territory?" Bykata asked, a bit rhetorically.

"Of course" Bykosi answered with a nod. "As long as it's their forces moving into someone else's territory, and not the other way around. They are rather hypocritical about that" she explained.

Bykata stared forward blankly, blinking once. "... Ah. Right" Bykata said simply in agreement.

The two stayed silent and diligently paid attention after that, until Zentri took to the podium. As soon as he pointed to them, Bykata smiled. When other delegations started to moan and groan, Bykata started laughing. Some anger crept in when the Amalan tried to drag the sirians into the matter as well, but as the rest of the room went into an uproar, Bykata started clapping. She added to the noise with a cheer of, "encore! Encore!" while she would scarcely be heard over everyone else anyway. Bykata quieted down with the rest of the room after Mnhiri got them in order, but the nisi ambassador kept a cheery, shit-eating grin on her face.

[Deneb Convention Center] (Factory of Chocolate, Waiting Room)

"That's right, Linda! The butler always does do it!" Tyoni hopped with glee with this classic turn of events before remembering to look serious.

"Ahem! What I mean to say is, in these situations the most obvious suspect is the butler. Which means are first suspect is..." A paw rose to point accusingly at the diminutive detective's first charge. "First Mate Yuki Kirishima!"

Bounding over to her, the communications officer stared at his boss with whiskers twitching anxiously. "Misses First Mate, if that is your real name," he started, "What is your relationship with the deceased? When did you last speak? What was the topic of your discussion?"

Some of these questions had already been answered, but Tyoni felt cool asking them anyway.

General Assembly, GNHQ — Azunn

Thankfully, it seemed that it was Azunn's turn at the podium again as the uproar began to subside from Ambassador Awag's outburst. Taking a moment to ensure that there wasn't a thread out of place on his suit (or a loose hair marring its surface), he stood up. "I would like to remind the esteemed ambassador from the Mighty Amalah Nation that the Savages are an independent polity. The Sirian Union has no more power over them than anyone else. As for the matter of a multilateral peacekeeping force operating in the disputed region, it is my firm belief that this should be an option of last resort, used only if all other avenues are exhausted. Then, and only then, should we begin discussing its makeup and other salient factors. I may be open to exploring various means, but that does not mean I weight all of them equally. Thank you for your time, Madam Chairwoman."

General Assembly, GNHQ — Cinder

Cinder raised an eyebrow at the Jiptohri ambassador's intervention from behind her mask. Like many of those present, she was sceptical of Jiptohr's true intentions. Of course, it was possible that he was genuine in his expressed neutrality, but she wasn't inclined to take it on faith... particularly after what had happened between their two nations in the fringes of Union space. She could tell from the brief flicker of emotion that crossed his features after he sat down that Azunn was likely having similar thoughts. Hopefully he wouldn't let them colour his thinking, even if she concurred his response was probably the right call. He couldn't allow himself to be distracted by Natleys' death, especially after so much time had passed. Perhaps she would need to discuss it with him later.

Waiting Room, Chocolate Factory — Erruan & Headcase

"First of all it wasn't a conflict," said Erruan, her ears twitching. "And second of all... I can vouch for Kirishima's good character as well. Anyway, can we speak to the droid?"

Headcase, who'd been trying to sneakily cling to Ninu, suddenly piped up. "Is there any security camera footage? I'm good at looking through that sorta thing!"

Edited by Flanker66 on Aug 12th 2019 at 9:22:11 AM

General Assembly, GNHQ

It occurred to Munbeem that many nations were voicing support for a peacekeeping force as a means of wriggling out of whatever commitments they had made to some ill conceived alliance with Izera or Sakta. No doubt it could be argued that a GN mandate superseded whatever bilateral treaty had been made in the past. Something to lawyer over lunch later.

Azunn spoke and Munbeem resisted the urge to roll some eyes at the stock answer he gave concerning Siria's influence on the Savages. But if that was the way he wanted to roll, Munbeem would roll along with him for now. Granted, Spaceborne basically rolled as a matter of course. How else would a tentacle ball get around?

He motioned to speak. "Thank you, Madame Chairwoman," he said before addressing the rest of the assembly. "Friends, when I was young and stupid... I was young and stupid. And based on what a number of you have admitted on karaoke night after one too many drinks, so were you." Eight eyes fixed themselves on different ambassadors for emphasis. "Thankfully, our young and stupid selves had smarter friends who pulled us back when we tried to get into fights with that prissy rich soccer player, even when that prick stole your favorite bar stool and don't tell me he didn't know that was yours, you were sitting in it like five minutes ago. Just because you got up to change the song on the jukebox doesn't mean you were giving it up. For God's sake, your drink was still there!"

That went to a place Munbeem did nor intended. Repressing that angry, hazy memory, he tried to steer the metaphor back onto the road. "The point is, we have some angry folks here. Angry people aren't the most somber minded. What is this body then, if not the friends whose job it is to pull their angry compatriot back from something they will regret later? I urge everyone with strong ties to the parties involved to be those friends, put a firm hand on their shoulders, supportive, but restraining. The best force we can offer right now is one that allows cooler heads to work their magic."

Munbeem turned to Mnhiri. "Madame Chairwoman. Might we not offer our services to the leaders of the conflicting parties as an independent arbitrator? Perhaps a committee to adjudicate the proceedings."

"Good idea, Good Cop!" Tyoni beamed, glad that Erruan so easily got into character.