On ISN2, the talk program 'Gridfire' presents a special report...
ISN Exclusive: Interview with a Minbari.
"Good evening. I'm Deiter Jennings, and tonight we have a special guest here: the first Minbari public official to agree to appear on ISN. Ambassador Delenn, the newly appointed representative to the Earth Alliance." He turns to the Minbari, and the camera turns to show a Minbari female with an ornatly shaped bone crest, clad in a light blue and grey robe, sitting serenely.
Deiter: "Miss Delenn. The Earth Alliance has maintained peaceful relations with the Minbari Federation for a number of years, trading small goods and otherwise remaining uninvolved with each other. How do you respond then to the allegations made by some that the Minbari are just biding their time before commencing an invasion of our systems?"
Delenn: "Mister Jennings, these claims are groundless... made by those who do not understand us. Nor do they want to understand us. Those who have studied our culture know that the Minbari have no need for aggression against other races."
Deiter: "Such might be the case, but that does not explain your recent military action against the 'Shadow' Race to the Centauri Space, and the recent incursion into Dilgar Territory."
Delenn: "The Shadows were enemies we have fought over a thousand years ago, long before your people developed space travel. They moved now, as they did then... pitting races against each other, and causing the extermination of whole worlds. We had to intervene, and prevented a war fleet from destroying the Centauri homeworld. Our actions against the Dilgar are a direct consequence of the Shadow War. They've illegally invaded and occupied one of the Narn's core worlds. We've decided to answer their call for aid, because of their help against the Shadows in the last war."
Deiter: "I see. How would you respond to the claims then by the Corporate Sector that you've pressured against Earth Alliance colonization?"
Delenn: "You are referring to the Gorash Hyperspace expanse... the Minbari Federation had laid claim to that system long before it's discovery by the Earth Alliance. We've even offered full rights to the Orion system to your Government during our initial contact. Since then, there have been no other concerns between our nations and we're content to maintain good relations."
Deiter: "And what about your control of the Gorash transit lane? How do you respond to Marxis' claim that you've been bullying Earth Alliance by denying use of the route?"
Delenn: "The answer to that is simple, Mr. Jennings. We have an agreement with Earth... that we may transit through their space with their permission, and they may do the same through Gorash with our permission. Commercial shipping transits the lanes regularly, provided they undergo standard customs inspections..."
Deiter: "Well, there you have it Earth. Now, onto another topic. About that bone..."
SE:IV B5 RP
Moderator: Thanas
"She's a looker," said Vera. "If only she had some hair."
Marxis grunted. "When I said Alshain was in bed with aliens, I never thought it'd be literal."
"You don't think that he'd--"
"Of course not. But it's possible, down the line. We can't risk polluting the human race. Is it possible?"
"From what I remember from high school biology, absolutely not."
"All the aliens, most of them anyway except the Vorlons, are humanoid. Maybe the Vorlons too. Keep tabs on Senators, anybody with influence. If there's even a hint of a relationship forming between a human and an alien, let me know."
"What does it matter? They could fuck all day and it wouldn't spit out a hybrid. You've been watching too many of these 20th Century soaps," said Vera picking up a box titled 'X-Files'.
"Just do it," said Marxis. "It'll be something we can... use."
Vera smiled. "I get it."
Brian
Marxis grunted. "When I said Alshain was in bed with aliens, I never thought it'd be literal."
"You don't think that he'd--"
"Of course not. But it's possible, down the line. We can't risk polluting the human race. Is it possible?"
"From what I remember from high school biology, absolutely not."
"All the aliens, most of them anyway except the Vorlons, are humanoid. Maybe the Vorlons too. Keep tabs on Senators, anybody with influence. If there's even a hint of a relationship forming between a human and an alien, let me know."
"What does it matter? They could fuck all day and it wouldn't spit out a hybrid. You've been watching too many of these 20th Century soaps," said Vera picking up a box titled 'X-Files'.
"Just do it," said Marxis. "It'll be something we can... use."
Vera smiled. "I get it."
Brian
Londo snapped off the ISN2 feed in disgust. "Prevented a Shadow war fleet from destroying Centauri Prime, indeed." He snorted. "More like won a few battles and then fled."
It was irrelevant, though. The Minbari were simply too wealthy and powerful to just cut ties to, even if most the Centauri people still felt betrayed by them. Londo's popularity had taken a beating for it awhile ago, but the nice thing about being emperor was not having to worry about getting elected.
"Vir," Londo said. "How is the new wave of expansion coming?"
"Well enough," Vir said. "Transports recently brought new colonists to the Markab home world, bringing the population to over 250 million. The Llort home world, as you know, was recolonized recently, and Shra-Bal V was recolonized just this month. However, colonizing Troth is starting to seem like a dangerous proposition. The Shadows have been making rumblings recently. They're down but they're not out yet."
Londo nodded. "Then it's a good thing the new wave of warships has begun to roll out of the shipyards," he said.
Vir looked surprised. "Londo, are you really sure it's wise to send the new ships to the east when there's so much going on to the west?"
Londo sighed. "As it is right now, Vir, we could not stand up to any of the other great powers of the galaxy. Regardless of where we put our ships. We simply lack the resources, industry, and the numbers. That can change only if we expand, and expand a lot, gaining many prime worlds. Shadow territory has all of those. Colonizing and consolidating that much space will take years, but if we can do it, the Centauri Republic won't need to fear every two-bit power in the stars anymore. We can finally be the Lion of the Galaxy again."
"But, are you so sure that we can get away with claiming their space?" Vir asked.
"Given our position relative to Shadow territory, and the fact that we suffered the heaviest casualities in the Shadow War, I don't see how anyone could deny our right to their stars," Londo said.
He poured them each a glass of liquor. "Vir, I've had nothing but worry for so long, but seeing the start of our reconstruction gives me hope that I have not had in years. Would you toast that hope with me, my friend, while it lasts?"
Vir accepted the offered cup. "Of course, Londo."
He couldn't quite bring himself to tell Londo that he thought the plan to take the Shadows' worlds could fall apart in a hundred different ways.
It was irrelevant, though. The Minbari were simply too wealthy and powerful to just cut ties to, even if most the Centauri people still felt betrayed by them. Londo's popularity had taken a beating for it awhile ago, but the nice thing about being emperor was not having to worry about getting elected.
"Vir," Londo said. "How is the new wave of expansion coming?"
"Well enough," Vir said. "Transports recently brought new colonists to the Markab home world, bringing the population to over 250 million. The Llort home world, as you know, was recolonized recently, and Shra-Bal V was recolonized just this month. However, colonizing Troth is starting to seem like a dangerous proposition. The Shadows have been making rumblings recently. They're down but they're not out yet."
Londo nodded. "Then it's a good thing the new wave of warships has begun to roll out of the shipyards," he said.
Vir looked surprised. "Londo, are you really sure it's wise to send the new ships to the east when there's so much going on to the west?"
Londo sighed. "As it is right now, Vir, we could not stand up to any of the other great powers of the galaxy. Regardless of where we put our ships. We simply lack the resources, industry, and the numbers. That can change only if we expand, and expand a lot, gaining many prime worlds. Shadow territory has all of those. Colonizing and consolidating that much space will take years, but if we can do it, the Centauri Republic won't need to fear every two-bit power in the stars anymore. We can finally be the Lion of the Galaxy again."
"But, are you so sure that we can get away with claiming their space?" Vir asked.
"Given our position relative to Shadow territory, and the fact that we suffered the heaviest casualities in the Shadow War, I don't see how anyone could deny our right to their stars," Londo said.
He poured them each a glass of liquor. "Vir, I've had nothing but worry for so long, but seeing the start of our reconstruction gives me hope that I have not had in years. Would you toast that hope with me, my friend, while it lasts?"
Vir accepted the offered cup. "Of course, Londo."
He couldn't quite bring himself to tell Londo that he thought the plan to take the Shadows' worlds could fall apart in a hundred different ways.
"I want to mow down a bunch of motherfuckers with absurdly large weapons and relative impunity - preferably in and around a skyscraper. Then I want to fight a grim battle against the unlikely duo of the Terminator and Robocop. The last level should involve (but not be limited to) multiple robo-Hitlers and a gorillasaurus rex."--Uraniun235 on his ideal FPS game
"The ability to destroy a planet is insignificant compared to the power of the Force."--Darth Vader
"The ability to destroy a planet is insignificant compared to the power of the Force."--Darth Vader
-
Uraniun235
- Emperor's Hand
- Posts: 13772
- Joined: 2002-09-12 12:47am
- Location: OREGON
- Contact:
Negative. The Gorash hyperspace expanse has been legally claimed by the Minbari Federation, and the Earth Alliance respects that claim. Likewise, the Earth Alliance asserts full soveriegn rights over the Orion system. There is no neutral territory to which your ships can be en route and the Earth Alliance will not be an accomplice to the violation of her ally's borders.As you require, Mr. President.
The flight paths for our forces lead them towards the Gorash Hyperspace funnel. We feel that since the Minbari started accosting our forces that it is neccessary to maintain a presence in any are that would let them exploit our back, as it were.
The scout patrol is unarmed and poses no threat to any of your interests. Once it is in Gorash it will no longer be your concern.
Rai'Jal
Dilgar High Fleet command
Furthermore, such a scouting mission could easily be accomplished by a much smaller force, which calls into doubt your claim that your ships are merely on a scouting force.
Earthforce has been ordered to prevent further penetration of your forces into Earth Alliance space, by deadly force if necessary. Recall your ships at once. The hyperspace route back to the Cooke system will remain clear while your ships leave.
If you wish, you may voice objections to this policy at the soon-to-be-completed diplomatic station being constructed in the Cooke system. We invite all star-faring nations to send representatives to this new station.
Earthforce has it's orders. They will not change.
President Wilhelm Alshain
(OOC: edit: changed 'Gorash' to 'Cooke' because I was asleep)
Last edited by Uraniun235 on 2006-03-23 11:13am, edited 2 times in total.
Code: Select all
We require clearances to move and colonize the planet Trembas II. After the colonisation we are happy to turn the planet over if it meets your needs."Alshain's parked a carrier over it. Obviously he's claimed it. The planet's in Corporate territory though."
Marxis leaned in his chair. "What if we were to give the Dilgar passage through our space?"
"Alshain would intercept the ship and accuse us of appeasing aliens."
"I have an idea."
"The first receipients of this prestigious award will have an all expenses paid trip to Trembas II. Our sensors have detected a large amount of alien ruins on the planet, and along with independent university and field experts we've decided this would make a perfect place for the establishment of a permanent colony for archaeological students to spend a semester. A Dilgar colony vessel is already on the way."
Excellent. Now maybe Alshain'll start a shooting war over a bunch of alien kids. That'd be a riot.
Brian
Marxis Corporate Headquarters - March 1st
"...exactly one year ago I announced that I would hold a referendum for all citizens of the Corporate Sector. I have decided the referendum date will be exactly one month from now, on March 31st. The people will decide the fate of our worlds."
ISN News Update - March 2nd
"The campaign has already started with dozens of political speakers appearing on late night newscasts. University Professor Polly Nunziatia has thrown her hat in the ring to replace Marxis and rejoin the Earth Alliance--"
Marxis Corporate Headquarters -- March 10th
"What kind of government do you want? A government that does not understand you, your needs or your people? What kind of government lets aliens gallavant around their backyard--"
Nationalist Movement Headquarters -- March 10th
"We have lived long enough under the thumb of this dictator. It is time we returned to the Earth Alliance and rejoin humanity--"
ISN News Update -- March 15th
"Polls show both sides in a dead heat with Marxis and the Nationalist movement increasing their campaign ads. Today Marxis is campaigning in capitol city while--"
ISN News Update -- March 25th
"Polls show the Reformists are beginning to pull away from the Nationalists. Marxis' promise of a five percent tax reduction--"
ISN News Update -- March 28th
"Breaking news! ISN has received video footage of the Yolu invasion two years ago. We cannot authenticate the footage, however because of the nature of the source we have decided to air this graphic footage of the Yolu President being slain--"
Marxis Corporate Headquarters -- March 29th
"These obviously false allegations spread by the liberals to undermine my character. I have no doubt Alshain was behind this lie--"
ISN News Update
Earlier in the evening...
"The votes are in and it looks like... let me confirm this... with seven thousand and five out of ten thousand polling stations reporting in, Marxis is at fifty-two percent and Nunziata at forty-eight percent--"
Late in the evening...
"With more polling stations reporting in from the urban centers it looks like Nunziata is gaining ground..."
Midnight...
"Final results are in and it looks like an almost even split between Marxis and the Nationalists..."
The next day...
"Riots are beginning between pro-Earth and anti-Earth forces. A hundred and sixty people have been arrested and thousands brought to hospital. Millions of protests are planned by both sides--
Two days later...
"To avoid a constitutional crisis and put an end to the violence, I have decided to agree to a compromise. I will stay on as President of the Corporate Sector, while Ms. Nunziata will hold the Office of Prime Minister. Effective immediately the majority of the Corporate Star Ship navy will be transferred to the authority of the Earth Alliance. The Corporate Sector will petition the Earth Alliance for membership as an associate member..."
Brian
"...exactly one year ago I announced that I would hold a referendum for all citizens of the Corporate Sector. I have decided the referendum date will be exactly one month from now, on March 31st. The people will decide the fate of our worlds."
ISN News Update - March 2nd
"The campaign has already started with dozens of political speakers appearing on late night newscasts. University Professor Polly Nunziatia has thrown her hat in the ring to replace Marxis and rejoin the Earth Alliance--"
Marxis Corporate Headquarters -- March 10th
"What kind of government do you want? A government that does not understand you, your needs or your people? What kind of government lets aliens gallavant around their backyard--"
Nationalist Movement Headquarters -- March 10th
"We have lived long enough under the thumb of this dictator. It is time we returned to the Earth Alliance and rejoin humanity--"
ISN News Update -- March 15th
"Polls show both sides in a dead heat with Marxis and the Nationalist movement increasing their campaign ads. Today Marxis is campaigning in capitol city while--"
ISN News Update -- March 25th
"Polls show the Reformists are beginning to pull away from the Nationalists. Marxis' promise of a five percent tax reduction--"
ISN News Update -- March 28th
"Breaking news! ISN has received video footage of the Yolu invasion two years ago. We cannot authenticate the footage, however because of the nature of the source we have decided to air this graphic footage of the Yolu President being slain--"
Marxis Corporate Headquarters -- March 29th
"These obviously false allegations spread by the liberals to undermine my character. I have no doubt Alshain was behind this lie--"
ISN News Update
Earlier in the evening...
"The votes are in and it looks like... let me confirm this... with seven thousand and five out of ten thousand polling stations reporting in, Marxis is at fifty-two percent and Nunziata at forty-eight percent--"
Late in the evening...
"With more polling stations reporting in from the urban centers it looks like Nunziata is gaining ground..."
Midnight...
"Final results are in and it looks like an almost even split between Marxis and the Nationalists..."
The next day...
"Riots are beginning between pro-Earth and anti-Earth forces. A hundred and sixty people have been arrested and thousands brought to hospital. Millions of protests are planned by both sides--
Two days later...
"To avoid a constitutional crisis and put an end to the violence, I have decided to agree to a compromise. I will stay on as President of the Corporate Sector, while Ms. Nunziata will hold the Office of Prime Minister. Effective immediately the majority of the Corporate Star Ship navy will be transferred to the authority of the Earth Alliance. The Corporate Sector will petition the Earth Alliance for membership as an associate member..."
Brian
-
Dalton
- For Those About to Rock We Salute You
- Posts: 22637
- Joined: 2002-07-03 06:16pm
- Location: New York, the Fuck You State
- Contact:
"The withdrawal from the Quadrant 32 system is complete, Chairman."
G'Kar didn't answer. He gave up the worlds to save his people, but the tradeoff was the guarantee of a permanently entrenched Dilgar presence right next door. All of his shipyards were still recovering from the recent hypermilitarization for the failed recapture attempt. The future looked bleak for the people of Quadrant 32 III.
"What are your orders?"
"We rebuild. It is all we can do. We did it once before; we can do it again."
"And what of Quadrant 32?"
G'Kar shook his head. "We don't have the resources yet. I fear that that world has been lost to us."
G'Kar didn't answer. He gave up the worlds to save his people, but the tradeoff was the guarantee of a permanently entrenched Dilgar presence right next door. All of his shipyards were still recovering from the recent hypermilitarization for the failed recapture attempt. The future looked bleak for the people of Quadrant 32 III.
"What are your orders?"
"We rebuild. It is all we can do. We did it once before; we can do it again."
"And what of Quadrant 32?"
G'Kar shook his head. "We don't have the resources yet. I fear that that world has been lost to us."
To Absent Friends
"y = mx + bro" - Surlethe
"You try THAT shit again, kid, and I will mod you. I will
mod you so hard, you'll wish I were Dalton." - Lagmonster
May the way of the Hero lead to the Triforce.
"Can nothing ever go right?!" Londo demanded of no one in particular.
The Narn had withdrawn from the Quadrant 32 system, which was about the last thing that Londo wanted. It probably meant that the Narn had accepted Dilgar demands and would be at peace with them soon. This was doubly bad as far as Londo was concerned. For one, it freed up the Dilgar military, which was never a good thing. For another, with the war over and the Narn defeated, they'd probably want to start expanding to make up for their loss of territory.
Londo had planned to grab Riat, Antares, and all the space in between, but if the Narns started their own expansion program, the Centauri Republic would end up with far less new territory than he'd hoped.
He sighed, it was just another grand vision that came tumbling down around him. There were still plenty of good worlds that he was confident he could grab before anyone else. And the Narn probably needed them more than the Centauri did. He wasn't about to make war on the Narns because they were threatening his land grabbing schemes.
Yet he couldn't help wonder what had happened to the aid that he knew the Vorlons and Minbari had planned to send G'Kar. Surely G'Kar would not surrender Quadrant 32 so easily if he knew that two such powerful nations were ready to help him. Had the Vorlons and Minbari abandoned G'Kar as they had him, or was there some other cause for all this?
"Who is to know?" he asked aloud, though neither Vir nor anyone was there.
He looked at the green dot symbolizing the Dilgar colony in Yonog. It seemed much more ominous than it had before.
The Narn had withdrawn from the Quadrant 32 system, which was about the last thing that Londo wanted. It probably meant that the Narn had accepted Dilgar demands and would be at peace with them soon. This was doubly bad as far as Londo was concerned. For one, it freed up the Dilgar military, which was never a good thing. For another, with the war over and the Narn defeated, they'd probably want to start expanding to make up for their loss of territory.
Londo had planned to grab Riat, Antares, and all the space in between, but if the Narns started their own expansion program, the Centauri Republic would end up with far less new territory than he'd hoped.
He sighed, it was just another grand vision that came tumbling down around him. There were still plenty of good worlds that he was confident he could grab before anyone else. And the Narn probably needed them more than the Centauri did. He wasn't about to make war on the Narns because they were threatening his land grabbing schemes.
Yet he couldn't help wonder what had happened to the aid that he knew the Vorlons and Minbari had planned to send G'Kar. Surely G'Kar would not surrender Quadrant 32 so easily if he knew that two such powerful nations were ready to help him. Had the Vorlons and Minbari abandoned G'Kar as they had him, or was there some other cause for all this?
"Who is to know?" he asked aloud, though neither Vir nor anyone was there.
He looked at the green dot symbolizing the Dilgar colony in Yonog. It seemed much more ominous than it had before.
"I want to mow down a bunch of motherfuckers with absurdly large weapons and relative impunity - preferably in and around a skyscraper. Then I want to fight a grim battle against the unlikely duo of the Terminator and Robocop. The last level should involve (but not be limited to) multiple robo-Hitlers and a gorillasaurus rex."--Uraniun235 on his ideal FPS game
"The ability to destroy a planet is insignificant compared to the power of the Force."--Darth Vader
"The ability to destroy a planet is insignificant compared to the power of the Force."--Darth Vader
"She's giving the rest of the command codes to Earthforce."
"Good," said Marxis.
"They'll have command of nearly all the Corporate Sector's fleet defense."
"Excellent," said Marxis. "Everything is going according to plan."
"And what exactly is that plan?"
"Alshain's a softie. He'll see this gift as a boon for his administration. Battleships he didn't have to pay for? What a bargain. We're having a fire sale Vera, and should Alshain not accept we'll sell our fleet. Maybe to the Narns, maybe to the Dilgar. The highest bidder will take them."
"What if Alshain does accept?"
"Then all the better. My people in the Senate are saying with such a huge fleet, even the most pessimistic projections of Earthforce being embroiled in something it can't handle will be laughable. Earthforce will have the most powerful fleet in the galaxy, and even if all the aliens banded together tomorrow they couldn't defeat us."
"And if he doesn't?"
"We'll have our firesale, and if worst comes to worst we'll scrap the junkheaps."
"I'd hardly call the Iowas junkheaps."
"Compared to what we're building next they are."
Brian
"Good," said Marxis.
"They'll have command of nearly all the Corporate Sector's fleet defense."
"Excellent," said Marxis. "Everything is going according to plan."
"And what exactly is that plan?"
"Alshain's a softie. He'll see this gift as a boon for his administration. Battleships he didn't have to pay for? What a bargain. We're having a fire sale Vera, and should Alshain not accept we'll sell our fleet. Maybe to the Narns, maybe to the Dilgar. The highest bidder will take them."
"What if Alshain does accept?"
"Then all the better. My people in the Senate are saying with such a huge fleet, even the most pessimistic projections of Earthforce being embroiled in something it can't handle will be laughable. Earthforce will have the most powerful fleet in the galaxy, and even if all the aliens banded together tomorrow they couldn't defeat us."
"And if he doesn't?"
"We'll have our firesale, and if worst comes to worst we'll scrap the junkheaps."
"I'd hardly call the Iowas junkheaps."
"Compared to what we're building next they are."
Brian
"Never presume to know what the Vorlons are going to do next, Vir," Londo said as he studied his holo-map.
A small number of Vorlon ships were orbiting Yonog I, blockading it. It was no secret that the Vorlons were angry at the Dilgar, but Londo had no idea why they were striking at the Dilgar at Yonog I, of all places.
"What are you going to do, Londo?" Vir asked.
Londo sighed. "Nothing for now. Yonog I is sovereign territory of the Dilgar; it is not our responsibility, like any other Dilgar planet is not our responsibility."
"But it's in one of our core systems," Vir said.
"I know," Londo grumbled. "But so long as we don't suffer any collateral damage, I think it's best if we just keep out of it."
"Very well, Londo."
"What's the status of the fleet?" Londo asked, wanting to change the subject.
"The 1st Centauri Expeditionary Force now numbers nine warships and one minesweeper," Vir said. "Several more warships and another minesweeper should be added in a few months."
"Good," Londo said.
A small number of Vorlon ships were orbiting Yonog I, blockading it. It was no secret that the Vorlons were angry at the Dilgar, but Londo had no idea why they were striking at the Dilgar at Yonog I, of all places.
"What are you going to do, Londo?" Vir asked.
Londo sighed. "Nothing for now. Yonog I is sovereign territory of the Dilgar; it is not our responsibility, like any other Dilgar planet is not our responsibility."
"But it's in one of our core systems," Vir said.
"I know," Londo grumbled. "But so long as we don't suffer any collateral damage, I think it's best if we just keep out of it."
"Very well, Londo."
"What's the status of the fleet?" Londo asked, wanting to change the subject.
"The 1st Centauri Expeditionary Force now numbers nine warships and one minesweeper," Vir said. "Several more warships and another minesweeper should be added in a few months."
"Good," Londo said.
"I want to mow down a bunch of motherfuckers with absurdly large weapons and relative impunity - preferably in and around a skyscraper. Then I want to fight a grim battle against the unlikely duo of the Terminator and Robocop. The last level should involve (but not be limited to) multiple robo-Hitlers and a gorillasaurus rex."--Uraniun235 on his ideal FPS game
"The ability to destroy a planet is insignificant compared to the power of the Force."--Darth Vader
"The ability to destroy a planet is insignificant compared to the power of the Force."--Darth Vader
-
Dalton
- For Those About to Rock We Salute You
- Posts: 22637
- Joined: 2002-07-03 06:16pm
- Location: New York, the Fuck You State
- Contact:
"There's a lot of criticism about our withdrawal from the Quadrant 32 system," Na'Toth said.
G'Kar waved them off. "Let them speculate. The simple fact of the matter is that I did not want more innocent civilians dying because of my incompetence. Besides, they had already destroyed one colony by the time we finished evacuating the other. The Dilgar destroyed that world...they destroyed its people..." His voice caught. "Such images as you have never seen..."
"Have we not then surrendered Quadrant 32 then?"
"No! Never!" G'Kar pounded the desk with his fist. "Even if it takes a thousand years, we will have our worlds back." Just then, the viewscreen lit up with an incoming transmission. G'Kar paused his tirade to see who it was...and he was shocked speechless.
G'Kar and Na'Toth read the message in silence. It was almost too much to ever dream possible, but there it was. Na'Toth was the first to stir. "So, Chairman, do we accept?"
G'Kar stared a moment longer, then slowly nodded. "Yes, we'll accept." The shipyards should be just about recovered now...
G'Kar waved them off. "Let them speculate. The simple fact of the matter is that I did not want more innocent civilians dying because of my incompetence. Besides, they had already destroyed one colony by the time we finished evacuating the other. The Dilgar destroyed that world...they destroyed its people..." His voice caught. "Such images as you have never seen..."
"Have we not then surrendered Quadrant 32 then?"
"No! Never!" G'Kar pounded the desk with his fist. "Even if it takes a thousand years, we will have our worlds back." Just then, the viewscreen lit up with an incoming transmission. G'Kar paused his tirade to see who it was...and he was shocked speechless.
G'Kar and Na'Toth read the message in silence. It was almost too much to ever dream possible, but there it was. Na'Toth was the first to stir. "So, Chairman, do we accept?"
G'Kar stared a moment longer, then slowly nodded. "Yes, we'll accept." The shipyards should be just about recovered now...
To Absent Friends
"y = mx + bro" - Surlethe
"You try THAT shit again, kid, and I will mod you. I will
mod you so hard, you'll wish I were Dalton." - Lagmonster
May the way of the Hero lead to the Triforce.
"G'kar agreed."
Marxis smiled.
"The Dilgar won't like this. Especially not Rai'Jal."
"It doesn't matter if they like it or not. They'll understand. It's business. Three hundred million tonnes of steel per month Vera. We'll finally have enough for this." Marxis pressed a button and up came a massive ship. Beside it were the other Earth Alliance and Corporate vessels, all to scale.
"The super battleship. It is three times more massive than anything the Earth Alliance or Corporate Sector fields. And--" Marxis zoomed in on the battleship and pressed a button. A simulation of fighter craft began attacking it. Starfuries. They fired their missiles at the super battleship, hundreds of them."
"That's not special. Our Iowas are already nearly immune to--" Vera paused and her mouth dropped wide open. "What the fuc--"
The missiles one by one exploded on the battleship. The area around the missiles shimmered and turned black and returned to their original steel finish, as if the missiles hadn't ever been launched.
Marxis smiled. "Nifty little trick huh? Just a little thing we picked up from raiding Mr. Defel's shell company after he disappeared. Our scientists have been developing the technology in secret. Once we get rid of our junkheaps, we'll have the experienced crew and resources to finally construct mankind's destiny. We will be invulnerable."
"The ships aren't finished retrofits and repairs."
"Make sure G'Kar knows if he says yes to the deal this month, he'll get damaged ships, and if he wants fully repaired ships he'll have to wait a month or two." Marxis paused. "And tell the Dilgar ambassador we're selling the Narns these ships."
"What?"
"Better to tell them now than for them to find out later and think we're shooting them."
Brian
Marxis smiled.
"The Dilgar won't like this. Especially not Rai'Jal."
"It doesn't matter if they like it or not. They'll understand. It's business. Three hundred million tonnes of steel per month Vera. We'll finally have enough for this." Marxis pressed a button and up came a massive ship. Beside it were the other Earth Alliance and Corporate vessels, all to scale.
"The super battleship. It is three times more massive than anything the Earth Alliance or Corporate Sector fields. And--" Marxis zoomed in on the battleship and pressed a button. A simulation of fighter craft began attacking it. Starfuries. They fired their missiles at the super battleship, hundreds of them."
"That's not special. Our Iowas are already nearly immune to--" Vera paused and her mouth dropped wide open. "What the fuc--"
The missiles one by one exploded on the battleship. The area around the missiles shimmered and turned black and returned to their original steel finish, as if the missiles hadn't ever been launched.
Marxis smiled. "Nifty little trick huh? Just a little thing we picked up from raiding Mr. Defel's shell company after he disappeared. Our scientists have been developing the technology in secret. Once we get rid of our junkheaps, we'll have the experienced crew and resources to finally construct mankind's destiny. We will be invulnerable."
"The ships aren't finished retrofits and repairs."
"Make sure G'Kar knows if he says yes to the deal this month, he'll get damaged ships, and if he wants fully repaired ships he'll have to wait a month or two." Marxis paused. "And tell the Dilgar ambassador we're selling the Narns these ships."
"What?"
"Better to tell them now than for them to find out later and think we're shooting them."
Brian
Last edited by brianeyci on 2006-03-26 07:20pm, edited 1 time in total.
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Nephtys
- Sith Acolyte
- Posts: 6227
- Joined: 2005-04-02 10:54pm
- Location: South Cali... where life is cheap!
"This was not expected. Yet, it does not come as a surprise." Nimune remarked, now recovering with a limp in her step. She squinted carefully, shaking her head. "The Dilgar have broken their truce with the Narn, and now already invade their home worlds! This is not acceptable."
"And you expected otherwise? This race is below mongerels. Attacking without honor or shame." Narool snorted to his clanmate, who shook her ridged head.
"Then. What is the judgement of the Council?" Nimune asked, already eager to return to her warships as they prepared.
"The Religious Caste wishes to... negotiate this problem. As if dealing with vermin can be done in words." Narool chortled, scowling as well. "Let them. But the Dilgar must be brought to their knees. This is now our affair. Our problem to deal with. They are agents of the Enemy, and must be defeated."
...meanwhile... on Messopotamia Six...
Ambassador Delenn sat at her delegation's area, waiting as the business was brought up for the first ever galactic summit. As Earth, the Centauri, and Non-Aligned worlds made their statements, she waited patiently for her turn to express the concerns of her government.
"Gathered Speakers, and respected members of all sentient races... the unwarranted attack by the Dilgar, in a war of Conquest against the Narn people must not go unaddressed. They have broken through to begin mass invasions of Narn Planets, shot down fleeing refugee transports and committed countless atrocities. This Station was created to prevent war, and broker peace between nations... where will it stand now? Where will you stand now?"
"And you expected otherwise? This race is below mongerels. Attacking without honor or shame." Narool snorted to his clanmate, who shook her ridged head.
"Then. What is the judgement of the Council?" Nimune asked, already eager to return to her warships as they prepared.
"The Religious Caste wishes to... negotiate this problem. As if dealing with vermin can be done in words." Narool chortled, scowling as well. "Let them. But the Dilgar must be brought to their knees. This is now our affair. Our problem to deal with. They are agents of the Enemy, and must be defeated."
...meanwhile... on Messopotamia Six...
Ambassador Delenn sat at her delegation's area, waiting as the business was brought up for the first ever galactic summit. As Earth, the Centauri, and Non-Aligned worlds made their statements, she waited patiently for her turn to express the concerns of her government.
"Gathered Speakers, and respected members of all sentient races... the unwarranted attack by the Dilgar, in a war of Conquest against the Narn people must not go unaddressed. They have broken through to begin mass invasions of Narn Planets, shot down fleeing refugee transports and committed countless atrocities. This Station was created to prevent war, and broker peace between nations... where will it stand now? Where will you stand now?"
"I have a solution," said Vera standing up and facing Delenn. "Of all the star nations, the Corporate Sector can--"
"You are out of order. Out of order," said the Chairman banging his gravel.
"--the Corporate Sector is closest to the Narns and the Dilgar. We are prepared to send a peacekeeping force to prevent further hostilities by both sides to the Quadrant 32 system."
"Out of order! Remove her!" said the Chairman.
Security walked up to her and grabbed her by the arms, but Vera shook herself free. "I know the way out," she said.
"Good," said Marxis barely paying attention.
"Is it time to move yet?"
"No. We've got to let our new Prime Minister think she's pulling the strings. It'll be awhile until we can show our aces."
Brian
"You are out of order. Out of order," said the Chairman banging his gravel.
"--the Corporate Sector is closest to the Narns and the Dilgar. We are prepared to send a peacekeeping force to prevent further hostilities by both sides to the Quadrant 32 system."
"Out of order! Remove her!" said the Chairman.
Security walked up to her and grabbed her by the arms, but Vera shook herself free. "I know the way out," she said.
"Good," said Marxis barely paying attention.
"Is it time to move yet?"
"No. We've got to let our new Prime Minister think she's pulling the strings. It'll be awhile until we can show our aces."
Brian
A few days ago...
"...and as I have already stated, the Centauri Republic supports the Earth Alliance's efforts to achieve galactic peace," Londo said. "And I will be sending an ambassador to Mesopotamia 6 shortly so that we may participate. The Centauri Republic will not become isolationist and ignore the rest of the galaxy."
Londo stepped off the podium and proceeded backstage, giving the journalists present no satisfaction. He'd have to stop doing that, he thought, or they might start making him look bad.
Vir was waiting for him backstage, as usual. "It would appear that you got exactly what you wanted, Londo."
"Ya," Londo replied gruffly. "At the time I least wanted it."
"Londo?"
Londo sighed. "The hot topic of the gathering will be the renewed Narn-Dilgar War, Vir. We cannot stay mute on such an issue. The problem is, we can neither afford to look weak, nor can we risk provoking the Dilgar."
"The Dilgar will have the wrath of the Vorlons crashing down on them soon," Vir said. "Intelligence indicates that they are aware of this."
"True, but it will not happen tomorrow," Londo said. "A Dilgar invasion of Centauri space could, however. Intelligence also indicates that the Dilgar fleet contains roughly two hundred ships, with less than one hundred accounted for. The 2nd Defense Fleet guarding Cascan is eleven ships strong."
Vir nodded. "Yes, I see the problem. But, as you said, the Centauri Republic cannot remain mute."
Londo smiled. "I'm sure that you'll do as well as anyone possibly could."
"Me??"
"Yes, Vir, you," Londo said. "I need someone I know has the best interests of the Republic at heart to be our representative on M6."
Vir smirked. "How do I know you're not just doing this to be rid of me?"
Londo laughed, "Ah, Vir, you know as well as I that if that were my motivation, Reefa would be the Centauri ambassador."
The two men shared a laugh, something that they had had far too few opportunities to do in recent times, Londo thought.
Present day, on M6...
It was odd, Vir thought, that he was allowed to speak before the ambassadors from more powerful nations, like the Minbari or the Corporate Sector. Was EarthGov trying to throw the Centauri Republic a bone, giving them a chance to speak early?
More likely they're doing this in alphabetical order, Vir thought, and smirked.
He cleared his throat before he began to read his carefully worded speech. "Sentient beings from across the galaxy, we have all gathered here in hopes of galatic peace, something that seems very far away right now, given the bloody wars of today and the days behind us.
"An important thing to remember as we strive for this goal is that no government is ever perfect. Everyone present belongs to a government which has some time in its history done something for which its citizens are not proud: breaking a promise, backing down when it was the time to stand up, even oppressing another race. However, some nations perform such acts more often than others, are more imperfect than other governments, in other words.
"Discussion should be the first recourse in attempting to resolve disputes, of course, but history shows that this is not always effective. It is my hope that in the days to come, this station will serve as the symbol for a grand alliance--an interstellar alliance, if you will--that will stand against the forces of these more imperfect governments. It is my hope that, because of such an alliance, weaker nations will not fall prey to stronger ones, and that our children need never fear war as we have."
Vir took a sip of water before continuing. He felt like a real politician now, he thought wryly. "Because I know that you're all probably wondering, I will now address the issue: the Centauri Republic will remain neutral in the struggle between the Narn Regime and the Dilgar Confederacy. We have treaties of alliance with both powers and will honor them by not interfering in their war." (Any further, Vir added silently)
During a recess of the meetings...
Lennier, an acoylte to the Minbari's Ambassador Delenn, felt someone bump into him from behind.
"Oh, pardon me," Vir excused himself, and walked off.
Slowly, after making sure that no one else was about, the Minbari reached into his pocket and withdrew a small scrap of paper that hadn't been there before. A short message was written in blocky text, obviously meant to disguise the author's handwriting.
"Tell your boss that if you need resources to help aid them, we will provide what we can. Our ports are still open to your ships."
Lennier smiled, and, making a mental note to inform Delenn, went to dispose of the slip of paper.
"...and as I have already stated, the Centauri Republic supports the Earth Alliance's efforts to achieve galactic peace," Londo said. "And I will be sending an ambassador to Mesopotamia 6 shortly so that we may participate. The Centauri Republic will not become isolationist and ignore the rest of the galaxy."
Londo stepped off the podium and proceeded backstage, giving the journalists present no satisfaction. He'd have to stop doing that, he thought, or they might start making him look bad.
Vir was waiting for him backstage, as usual. "It would appear that you got exactly what you wanted, Londo."
"Ya," Londo replied gruffly. "At the time I least wanted it."
"Londo?"
Londo sighed. "The hot topic of the gathering will be the renewed Narn-Dilgar War, Vir. We cannot stay mute on such an issue. The problem is, we can neither afford to look weak, nor can we risk provoking the Dilgar."
"The Dilgar will have the wrath of the Vorlons crashing down on them soon," Vir said. "Intelligence indicates that they are aware of this."
"True, but it will not happen tomorrow," Londo said. "A Dilgar invasion of Centauri space could, however. Intelligence also indicates that the Dilgar fleet contains roughly two hundred ships, with less than one hundred accounted for. The 2nd Defense Fleet guarding Cascan is eleven ships strong."
Vir nodded. "Yes, I see the problem. But, as you said, the Centauri Republic cannot remain mute."
Londo smiled. "I'm sure that you'll do as well as anyone possibly could."
"Me??"
"Yes, Vir, you," Londo said. "I need someone I know has the best interests of the Republic at heart to be our representative on M6."
Vir smirked. "How do I know you're not just doing this to be rid of me?"
Londo laughed, "Ah, Vir, you know as well as I that if that were my motivation, Reefa would be the Centauri ambassador."
The two men shared a laugh, something that they had had far too few opportunities to do in recent times, Londo thought.
Present day, on M6...
It was odd, Vir thought, that he was allowed to speak before the ambassadors from more powerful nations, like the Minbari or the Corporate Sector. Was EarthGov trying to throw the Centauri Republic a bone, giving them a chance to speak early?
More likely they're doing this in alphabetical order, Vir thought, and smirked.
He cleared his throat before he began to read his carefully worded speech. "Sentient beings from across the galaxy, we have all gathered here in hopes of galatic peace, something that seems very far away right now, given the bloody wars of today and the days behind us.
"An important thing to remember as we strive for this goal is that no government is ever perfect. Everyone present belongs to a government which has some time in its history done something for which its citizens are not proud: breaking a promise, backing down when it was the time to stand up, even oppressing another race. However, some nations perform such acts more often than others, are more imperfect than other governments, in other words.
"Discussion should be the first recourse in attempting to resolve disputes, of course, but history shows that this is not always effective. It is my hope that in the days to come, this station will serve as the symbol for a grand alliance--an interstellar alliance, if you will--that will stand against the forces of these more imperfect governments. It is my hope that, because of such an alliance, weaker nations will not fall prey to stronger ones, and that our children need never fear war as we have."
Vir took a sip of water before continuing. He felt like a real politician now, he thought wryly. "Because I know that you're all probably wondering, I will now address the issue: the Centauri Republic will remain neutral in the struggle between the Narn Regime and the Dilgar Confederacy. We have treaties of alliance with both powers and will honor them by not interfering in their war." (Any further, Vir added silently)
During a recess of the meetings...
Lennier, an acoylte to the Minbari's Ambassador Delenn, felt someone bump into him from behind.
"Oh, pardon me," Vir excused himself, and walked off.
Slowly, after making sure that no one else was about, the Minbari reached into his pocket and withdrew a small scrap of paper that hadn't been there before. A short message was written in blocky text, obviously meant to disguise the author's handwriting.
"Tell your boss that if you need resources to help aid them, we will provide what we can. Our ports are still open to your ships."
Lennier smiled, and, making a mental note to inform Delenn, went to dispose of the slip of paper.
"I want to mow down a bunch of motherfuckers with absurdly large weapons and relative impunity - preferably in and around a skyscraper. Then I want to fight a grim battle against the unlikely duo of the Terminator and Robocop. The last level should involve (but not be limited to) multiple robo-Hitlers and a gorillasaurus rex."--Uraniun235 on his ideal FPS game
"The ability to destroy a planet is insignificant compared to the power of the Force."--Darth Vader
"The ability to destroy a planet is insignificant compared to the power of the Force."--Darth Vader
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Dalton
- For Those About to Rock We Salute You
- Posts: 22637
- Joined: 2002-07-03 06:16pm
- Location: New York, the Fuck You State
- Contact:
Power conduits sparked in the darkened former office of the Chairman of the Narn Regime. The evacuation had been frantic and hurried; the invasion, completely unexpected. The Dilgar fleet had brute-forced their way through the minefields and taken all of the defenses surrounding this world.
The war was going badly. Even with the fleet of Marxis's obsolete warships, G'Kar was not optimistic about the future of his people. The Dilgar advance had been ruthless, mindless; even surrounded on all sides by angry allies, the Dilgar had pressed on like the mindless animals they were, interested only in blood and death and war.
The last transports were leaving; his aides insisted he be on it, even if G'Kar had stated that he'd rather die with his people than abandon them to Jha'Dur and her monsters. But even so, G'Kar could exact a little bit of retribution in return. Even as legions of Dilgar troops landed and began tromping through the streets, G'Kar sent orders to every fabrication and resource production facility on the planet. He turned to leave, but on an impulse, he reset the stellar location beacon with a new name for the planet; a name he had never seen nor heard from before, but which just appeared mysteriously in his mind. He then hurried for the transport where Na'Toth was waiting. Ta'Lon trailed behind him, his eyes peeled for trouble, but they managed to board the ship without incident and escape their doomed world even as massive explosions rocked them. The Dilgar might have taken this world, G'Kar mused, but they will get nothing from it for a while.
The transport moved on to their last remaining homeworld, where G'Kar vowed to prepare for yet another Dilgar incursion.
"Sir, transmission coming in from the diplomatic nets. Alshain's project is online and he has invited us to send an Ambassador to the Cooke system."
G'Kar sat staring out of the window at the rapidly-shrinking world behind. He was silent for a long, long time.
"Sir?"
But G'Kar said nothing.
The war was going badly. Even with the fleet of Marxis's obsolete warships, G'Kar was not optimistic about the future of his people. The Dilgar advance had been ruthless, mindless; even surrounded on all sides by angry allies, the Dilgar had pressed on like the mindless animals they were, interested only in blood and death and war.
The last transports were leaving; his aides insisted he be on it, even if G'Kar had stated that he'd rather die with his people than abandon them to Jha'Dur and her monsters. But even so, G'Kar could exact a little bit of retribution in return. Even as legions of Dilgar troops landed and began tromping through the streets, G'Kar sent orders to every fabrication and resource production facility on the planet. He turned to leave, but on an impulse, he reset the stellar location beacon with a new name for the planet; a name he had never seen nor heard from before, but which just appeared mysteriously in his mind. He then hurried for the transport where Na'Toth was waiting. Ta'Lon trailed behind him, his eyes peeled for trouble, but they managed to board the ship without incident and escape their doomed world even as massive explosions rocked them. The Dilgar might have taken this world, G'Kar mused, but they will get nothing from it for a while.
The transport moved on to their last remaining homeworld, where G'Kar vowed to prepare for yet another Dilgar incursion.
"Sir, transmission coming in from the diplomatic nets. Alshain's project is online and he has invited us to send an Ambassador to the Cooke system."
G'Kar sat staring out of the window at the rapidly-shrinking world behind. He was silent for a long, long time.
"Sir?"
But G'Kar said nothing.
To Absent Friends
"y = mx + bro" - Surlethe
"You try THAT shit again, kid, and I will mod you. I will
mod you so hard, you'll wish I were Dalton." - Lagmonster
May the way of the Hero lead to the Triforce.
-
Uraniun235
- Emperor's Hand
- Posts: 13772
- Joined: 2002-09-12 12:47am
- Location: OREGON
- Contact:
President Alshain paced the bridge of Terra, silently fuming.
First, that goddamn asshole of a Dilgar commander had parked his raiding party on top of the warp point on the way to Cooke while he played dumb and asked for confirmation that the return path was clear. They didn't dare try to run past the Dilgar ships... that was just asking for someone to get itchy trigger fingers. So they had to wait until the damned Dilgar decided to leave.
Then, Mesopotamia Six had been forced to open it's doors before he could get there.
And now even though the path to the Cooke system was all clear... big and powerful as she was, Terra was not the swiftest starship in Earthforce.
As Alshain paused yet again to stare at the starfield and wish that the next jumpgate was in sight, he reflected on the "gift" of the Corporate star fleet. It was big, and powerful... but so many of the ships weren't even finished yet. He had ordered the fleet to the Zendamor system where, conventional wisdom would have it, the fleet would be repaired and refitted.
First, that goddamn asshole of a Dilgar commander had parked his raiding party on top of the warp point on the way to Cooke while he played dumb and asked for confirmation that the return path was clear. They didn't dare try to run past the Dilgar ships... that was just asking for someone to get itchy trigger fingers. So they had to wait until the damned Dilgar decided to leave.
Then, Mesopotamia Six had been forced to open it's doors before he could get there.
And now even though the path to the Cooke system was all clear... big and powerful as she was, Terra was not the swiftest starship in Earthforce.
As Alshain paused yet again to stare at the starfield and wish that the next jumpgate was in sight, he reflected on the "gift" of the Corporate star fleet. It was big, and powerful... but so many of the ships weren't even finished yet. He had ordered the fleet to the Zendamor system where, conventional wisdom would have it, the fleet would be repaired and refitted.
"Alshain's pulling the Iowas back to base."
"That wasn't unexpected."
"We'll be open to attack until the Super Battleships come online."
Marxis held the philosopher's position with his fingers. "Nobody would dare attack us. We're human. Like it or not Alshain's human too, and if anybody takes advantage they'll have to deal with Earthforce."
"Earthforce isn't--"
"Don't forget," said Marxis. "I used to wear the uniform. I know what it means to swear an oath not just to one man or one nation, but to all of mankind. Besides, the possibility of invasion is remote. The Narns are crushed, the Centauri occupied with some land grabbing scheme, and the Dilgar are our allies. We'll have to be open one time or another."
"The Dilgar have several hundred ships. They could come in and--"
"Then let them come." Marxis paused. "If they come we'll finally have an excuse to rid the galaxy of those scum forever."
Brian
"That wasn't unexpected."
"We'll be open to attack until the Super Battleships come online."
Marxis held the philosopher's position with his fingers. "Nobody would dare attack us. We're human. Like it or not Alshain's human too, and if anybody takes advantage they'll have to deal with Earthforce."
"Earthforce isn't--"
"Don't forget," said Marxis. "I used to wear the uniform. I know what it means to swear an oath not just to one man or one nation, but to all of mankind. Besides, the possibility of invasion is remote. The Narns are crushed, the Centauri occupied with some land grabbing scheme, and the Dilgar are our allies. We'll have to be open one time or another."
"The Dilgar have several hundred ships. They could come in and--"
"Then let them come." Marxis paused. "If they come we'll finally have an excuse to rid the galaxy of those scum forever."
Brian
Finally.
Finally, the war the Narn regime had so recklessly started was coming to an end...
The tactical genius of War master Bra'ka, commander of Oblivions' edge the flagship of the obliion fleet; had allowed this victory to come so swiftly and with minimal loss of life.
In the battle for Mellitra IX, only three cruisers and and a single frigate had been lost to the thirty five space stations orbitting the planet. Those stations had been boarded and captured in record time. The battle for Mellittra space had lastd no more than five hours from first jump to the ground assualt.
Unfortunately, things had faltered there. Given the ease with which the once Quadrant 32 III had fallen, and due to the speed required, a much lighter ground force was used and consequently it had not taken the planet in one fell stroke.
This would be fixed, reinforcements were already on hand. The planet was blockaded by both the Dilgar fleet and the Narn defensve web.
THERE WOULD BE NO ESCAPE...
The regime was crushed, its leadership in disarray and nothing remained to stand against the Dilgar occupation of Narn.
-----
Jha'Dur stood in the tactical centre deep underground on Katraa'tzi. She was observing the final ground assualt of Mellitra IX through a tachyon feed coming from revenge.
As she watched an ensign from intelligence approaced her with an urgent coms message from the fleet.
she read it over once, her face looking particularly sour.
"is this correct?"
She asked. The ensign was about to answer wen she cut him off by punching the tac display. She scowled briefly then, her composure renewed, began softly:
"How is it, that despite anhilating her fleet, intercepting and destroying the vessel she escaped upon, this mighty Mnbari alyt still manages to draw breath?.."
The ensign was about to begin again, but she turned, once more cutting him off. After a few moments, still facing the other way she casually began.
"Tell fleet command that if they cannot manage to kill a single Minbari travelling in disgrace on board an unarmed vessel within the heart of our space, then perhaps they should watch their Executive officers very carefully."
"Also tell Bi'Lar that his presence is 'requested' immediatly."
The Ensigns face paled slightly, he quickly left to relay the message.
-----
Coook System.
A small transport caft orbits the planet next to Mesopotamia 6, the newest in a long line of failed attempts toward peace.
Mesopotamia 6, we require Docking clearance to come aboard on behalf of the Dilgar Confederacy.
If this station is as you imply, 'designed to promote peaceful solutions', then our delegation should be present, after all some races are more in need of peace than others...
Finally, the war the Narn regime had so recklessly started was coming to an end...
The tactical genius of War master Bra'ka, commander of Oblivions' edge the flagship of the obliion fleet; had allowed this victory to come so swiftly and with minimal loss of life.
In the battle for Mellitra IX, only three cruisers and and a single frigate had been lost to the thirty five space stations orbitting the planet. Those stations had been boarded and captured in record time. The battle for Mellittra space had lastd no more than five hours from first jump to the ground assualt.
Unfortunately, things had faltered there. Given the ease with which the once Quadrant 32 III had fallen, and due to the speed required, a much lighter ground force was used and consequently it had not taken the planet in one fell stroke.
This would be fixed, reinforcements were already on hand. The planet was blockaded by both the Dilgar fleet and the Narn defensve web.
THERE WOULD BE NO ESCAPE...
The regime was crushed, its leadership in disarray and nothing remained to stand against the Dilgar occupation of Narn.
-----
Jha'Dur stood in the tactical centre deep underground on Katraa'tzi. She was observing the final ground assualt of Mellitra IX through a tachyon feed coming from revenge.
As she watched an ensign from intelligence approaced her with an urgent coms message from the fleet.
she read it over once, her face looking particularly sour.
"is this correct?"
She asked. The ensign was about to answer wen she cut him off by punching the tac display. She scowled briefly then, her composure renewed, began softly:
"How is it, that despite anhilating her fleet, intercepting and destroying the vessel she escaped upon, this mighty Mnbari alyt still manages to draw breath?.."
The ensign was about to begin again, but she turned, once more cutting him off. After a few moments, still facing the other way she casually began.
"Tell fleet command that if they cannot manage to kill a single Minbari travelling in disgrace on board an unarmed vessel within the heart of our space, then perhaps they should watch their Executive officers very carefully."
"Also tell Bi'Lar that his presence is 'requested' immediatly."
The Ensigns face paled slightly, he quickly left to relay the message.
-----
Coook System.
A small transport caft orbits the planet next to Mesopotamia 6, the newest in a long line of failed attempts toward peace.
Mesopotamia 6, we require Docking clearance to come aboard on behalf of the Dilgar Confederacy.
If this station is as you imply, 'designed to promote peaceful solutions', then our delegation should be present, after all some races are more in need of peace than others...
"If you desire my position, alll you have to do is take it from my cold, dead hands!"
-Sebastian Shaw
-Sebastian Shaw
Bra'ka surveyed the planet below from his command deck.
The battle had been swift, the reserve ground forces weren't even needed. Melitra IX had fallen to the Dilgar.
Bra'ka smiled, victories were good for his career.
Following the protocol set down by high command, he turend to his communications officer and inquired
"Have the Narns replied to our hails. Have they offered their surrender yet?"
The officer looked back at Bra'ka, her visage revealing that they hadn't. SUddenly her features changed to reveal a look of shock.
"Sir! The Narns have a message for you."
Bra'ka looked interested now, a full surrender as was anticipated would look very good for him and his family.
"The message says "Fuck you Tobor!".
"What, are you sure ensign. That makes no sense. Perhaps it's in some regional dialect that we're unfamiliar with?"
"No, sir. They've even renamed the planet to reflect this message. Perhaps it is some insult, or some curse they are trying to bait us with?"
Bra'ka, looked startled, he had thought the Narn at least possessed more dignity then to resort to such childish games and taunts.
"Very well, officer Mai'ko, we shall have to assume that means they intend to pursue this ridiculous war to the end. Send out the sweeps..."
"Send a message to Katraa'tzi. I'm invoking my rights as senior officer in command of an imperialist fleet to name the conquered planet."
"But sir, that edict was set down a hundred years ago when we first colonised the stars."
"As you were, officer Mai'ko, i'm sure they'll understand."
"What sir, shall i inform them that you have chosen for the planets name?"
"Spite"
The battle had been swift, the reserve ground forces weren't even needed. Melitra IX had fallen to the Dilgar.
Bra'ka smiled, victories were good for his career.
Following the protocol set down by high command, he turend to his communications officer and inquired
"Have the Narns replied to our hails. Have they offered their surrender yet?"
The officer looked back at Bra'ka, her visage revealing that they hadn't. SUddenly her features changed to reveal a look of shock.
"Sir! The Narns have a message for you."
Bra'ka looked interested now, a full surrender as was anticipated would look very good for him and his family.
"The message says "Fuck you Tobor!".
"What, are you sure ensign. That makes no sense. Perhaps it's in some regional dialect that we're unfamiliar with?"
"No, sir. They've even renamed the planet to reflect this message. Perhaps it is some insult, or some curse they are trying to bait us with?"
Bra'ka, looked startled, he had thought the Narn at least possessed more dignity then to resort to such childish games and taunts.
"Very well, officer Mai'ko, we shall have to assume that means they intend to pursue this ridiculous war to the end. Send out the sweeps..."
"Send a message to Katraa'tzi. I'm invoking my rights as senior officer in command of an imperialist fleet to name the conquered planet."
"But sir, that edict was set down a hundred years ago when we first colonised the stars."
"As you were, officer Mai'ko, i'm sure they'll understand."
"What sir, shall i inform them that you have chosen for the planets name?"
"Spite"
"If you desire my position, alll you have to do is take it from my cold, dead hands!"
-Sebastian Shaw
-Sebastian Shaw
Mesopotamia Six
The council Chamber was aflutter. Ambassador Delenn of the Minbari federation had just finished giving her adress.
Rai'Jal had just caught the trailing words, and noted that Vera Delaney a corporate representative had just passed him going in the other direction from the halls.
Steeling himself for the reception he expected would greet him, he nodded to the security guards who were escorting him. They saluted and took there place upon the edge of the council chamber. They would remain as a precaution, a garauntee from the Earthers that his place at this station held some weight.
He exhaled, slow and even, his mind ready for the trials ahead.
The doors to the chamber opened, and with the finality of death, the room fell silent...
All eyes were upon him now, some scathing, some repulsed, more than a few betrayed their fear, and then there were those few that shone with respect and awe for the Dilgar representative.
With all the grace and poise that comes from nobility and station, Rai'Jal made his way towards the podium. To his place amongst the great empires of the galaxy.
As he sat, he inspected the room, looking each delegate in the eye as he did so.
The man who until recently had commanded the Dilgar navy was now sitting visible, isolated, and exposed at the head of this 'last, best hope for peace'.
If the delegates from other empires came here with preconceived ideas of the Dilgar. That they were cowards, honourless, barbaric. Rai'Jal, by his very nature, his demeanor and his reputation would challenge those ideas.
The Philosopher King; the last, best hope for peace...
The council Chamber was aflutter. Ambassador Delenn of the Minbari federation had just finished giving her adress.
Rai'Jal had just caught the trailing words, and noted that Vera Delaney a corporate representative had just passed him going in the other direction from the halls.
Steeling himself for the reception he expected would greet him, he nodded to the security guards who were escorting him. They saluted and took there place upon the edge of the council chamber. They would remain as a precaution, a garauntee from the Earthers that his place at this station held some weight.
He exhaled, slow and even, his mind ready for the trials ahead.
The doors to the chamber opened, and with the finality of death, the room fell silent...
All eyes were upon him now, some scathing, some repulsed, more than a few betrayed their fear, and then there were those few that shone with respect and awe for the Dilgar representative.
With all the grace and poise that comes from nobility and station, Rai'Jal made his way towards the podium. To his place amongst the great empires of the galaxy.
As he sat, he inspected the room, looking each delegate in the eye as he did so.
The man who until recently had commanded the Dilgar navy was now sitting visible, isolated, and exposed at the head of this 'last, best hope for peace'.
If the delegates from other empires came here with preconceived ideas of the Dilgar. That they were cowards, honourless, barbaric. Rai'Jal, by his very nature, his demeanor and his reputation would challenge those ideas.
The Philosopher King; the last, best hope for peace...
"If you desire my position, alll you have to do is take it from my cold, dead hands!"
-Sebastian Shaw
-Sebastian Shaw
The Hurr Republic had recently signed a treaty of partnership with the Dilgar. This was troubling because the Centauri Republic had also had such a treaty with the Hurr for some time now. As a result, thanks to a minor power, the Dilgar and their allies, and the Centauri and their allies, were now flooded with information about one another.
In a way it was a good thing. Londo was now sure that Dilgar did not plan to invade Cascan in the immediate future, and he now knew the exact positions of every Dilgar and Shadow vessel in the galaxy. Unfortunatly, he knew that the Dilgar were enjoying similar knowledge of his Republic, something he did not like.
"Dmitri!" Londo called, summonsing his new assistant, a man from minor nobility.
Calling for Dmitri just wasn't as much fun as calling for Vir, Londo mused while he waited. Just before Dmitri entered, Londo recalled a very old human film and wondered if he could find someone named Khan to be his assistant.
"Yes, Excellency?" Dmitri said, driving the silly thoughts from Londo's head.
Londo sighed. "You're my personal assistant, Dmitri. You may address me by my first name."
"Yes, Excellency."
Londo rolled his eyes and decided to give up. "Dmitri, I want you to have someone subtly investigate the conditions under which the Hurr Republic's government decided to partner with the Dilgar."
"Yes, Excellency!"
And with that he was gone. Londo sighed again. Dmitri was an eager young pup, but anyone older might be in the pocket of Reefa or another powerful member of the nobility or the Centarum.
A small ringing sound pulled Londo from his thoughts and he quickly pressed a button on his desk. His holo-map was replaced by a 2-D display of Vir.
"Ack, but it is good to see you, Vir," Londo said. "What's the news from M6?"
"Not much so far," Vir answered discouragedly. "The Earth Alliance's ambassador hasn't arrived yet, nor has the Narn's. And if the Vorlons have an ambassador here I've yet to see him."
Londo chuckled. "Yes, well, knowing the Vorlons, I wouldn't be surprised if there IS one of them there, and he's just being secretive. So what has happened there? I've heard that the Minbari, our 'friend' Marxis, and even the Dilgar have ambassadors there, too."
Vir nodded. "The Corporate Sector's ambassador got herself thrown out of the first meeting, the Dilgar ambassador's just been making himself visible so far, and the Minbari have just been blowing smoke. I delivered the message to one of the Minbari delegation like you told me to, but otherwise...nothing. How goes the Narn's war against the Dilgar?"
Londo scowled. "Not well. Fuck you, Tobor fell last month."
"What?" Vir asked, looking extremely confused.
Londo smirked despite himself. "Never mind, Vir. Suffice to say that the Narn are down to one core world and seem to be in full retreat." He shook his head. "A golden opportunity for our Republic to redeem itself and we are too weak to grasp it! I am thinking of offering the Narn a world for their refugees to flee to."
"I'm sure it would be appreciated, Londo," Vir said.
"Indeed, but I'm hesistant to do something that might cause a Dilgar armada to enter Centauri space," Londo said. "I want to wait just a little longer. If the Vorlons finally intervene, then it may be unneccesary. If the Narn send an ambassador, though, make sure he knows that Narn evacuees can flee to Centauri space."
Vir nodded. "I understand, Londo."
In a way it was a good thing. Londo was now sure that Dilgar did not plan to invade Cascan in the immediate future, and he now knew the exact positions of every Dilgar and Shadow vessel in the galaxy. Unfortunatly, he knew that the Dilgar were enjoying similar knowledge of his Republic, something he did not like.
"Dmitri!" Londo called, summonsing his new assistant, a man from minor nobility.
Calling for Dmitri just wasn't as much fun as calling for Vir, Londo mused while he waited. Just before Dmitri entered, Londo recalled a very old human film and wondered if he could find someone named Khan to be his assistant.
"Yes, Excellency?" Dmitri said, driving the silly thoughts from Londo's head.
Londo sighed. "You're my personal assistant, Dmitri. You may address me by my first name."
"Yes, Excellency."
Londo rolled his eyes and decided to give up. "Dmitri, I want you to have someone subtly investigate the conditions under which the Hurr Republic's government decided to partner with the Dilgar."
"Yes, Excellency!"
And with that he was gone. Londo sighed again. Dmitri was an eager young pup, but anyone older might be in the pocket of Reefa or another powerful member of the nobility or the Centarum.
A small ringing sound pulled Londo from his thoughts and he quickly pressed a button on his desk. His holo-map was replaced by a 2-D display of Vir.
"Ack, but it is good to see you, Vir," Londo said. "What's the news from M6?"
"Not much so far," Vir answered discouragedly. "The Earth Alliance's ambassador hasn't arrived yet, nor has the Narn's. And if the Vorlons have an ambassador here I've yet to see him."
Londo chuckled. "Yes, well, knowing the Vorlons, I wouldn't be surprised if there IS one of them there, and he's just being secretive. So what has happened there? I've heard that the Minbari, our 'friend' Marxis, and even the Dilgar have ambassadors there, too."
Vir nodded. "The Corporate Sector's ambassador got herself thrown out of the first meeting, the Dilgar ambassador's just been making himself visible so far, and the Minbari have just been blowing smoke. I delivered the message to one of the Minbari delegation like you told me to, but otherwise...nothing. How goes the Narn's war against the Dilgar?"
Londo scowled. "Not well. Fuck you, Tobor fell last month."
"What?" Vir asked, looking extremely confused.
Londo smirked despite himself. "Never mind, Vir. Suffice to say that the Narn are down to one core world and seem to be in full retreat." He shook his head. "A golden opportunity for our Republic to redeem itself and we are too weak to grasp it! I am thinking of offering the Narn a world for their refugees to flee to."
"I'm sure it would be appreciated, Londo," Vir said.
"Indeed, but I'm hesistant to do something that might cause a Dilgar armada to enter Centauri space," Londo said. "I want to wait just a little longer. If the Vorlons finally intervene, then it may be unneccesary. If the Narn send an ambassador, though, make sure he knows that Narn evacuees can flee to Centauri space."
Vir nodded. "I understand, Londo."
"I want to mow down a bunch of motherfuckers with absurdly large weapons and relative impunity - preferably in and around a skyscraper. Then I want to fight a grim battle against the unlikely duo of the Terminator and Robocop. The last level should involve (but not be limited to) multiple robo-Hitlers and a gorillasaurus rex."--Uraniun235 on his ideal FPS game
"The ability to destroy a planet is insignificant compared to the power of the Force."--Darth Vader
"The ability to destroy a planet is insignificant compared to the power of the Force."--Darth Vader
"I present to you the future mainstay of the Corporate and we hope fleet of mankind--the fifty million ton Super Battleship United States. Ten five hundred gigawatt particle cannons, eleven standard speed and enough armor to shrug off even the most powerful alien attacks."
"It will be some time until the ships are fully operational, but rest assured these vessels will form the backbone of mankind for decades to come."
Brian
Let them come...
The vorlons will reach us within the month.
We shall not bend to their will.
They shall kill us all.
Time to reap the whirlwind.
Jha'Dur turned away from the Map of Ardun. She would not submit to the Vorlons.
At least the Minbari would not be able to assist in this fight. That is, not witout some hefty detours...
She reached down to the coms switch
"Tell the fleet captains to prepare for planetary defence."
Silently she watched as the blip representing the Vorlon fleet moved closer.
Rai'Jal hopefully was safe on this new M6, the station the humans kept pushing. As for Bi'Lar he was unaccounted for at present.
She would be here for the final hour, would not flee this destiny.
The vorlons will reach us within the month.
We shall not bend to their will.
They shall kill us all.
Time to reap the whirlwind.
Jha'Dur turned away from the Map of Ardun. She would not submit to the Vorlons.
At least the Minbari would not be able to assist in this fight. That is, not witout some hefty detours...
She reached down to the coms switch
"Tell the fleet captains to prepare for planetary defence."
Silently she watched as the blip representing the Vorlon fleet moved closer.
Rai'Jal hopefully was safe on this new M6, the station the humans kept pushing. As for Bi'Lar he was unaccounted for at present.
She would be here for the final hour, would not flee this destiny.
"If you desire my position, alll you have to do is take it from my cold, dead hands!"
-Sebastian Shaw
-Sebastian Shaw
Londo snorted as he read the message from Jha'Dur. Of all the people in the galaxy, Jha'Dur was probably the last one who had any right to lecture him on playing a dangerous game (with the exception of Marxis, Londo supposed).
Dmitri entered then. "Excellency, our agents have been unable to find any hidden motives of the Hurr when they decided to partner with the Dilgar."
"It is of no matter, anymore," Londo said. "The Vorlon armada has finally arrived in Dilgar space."
Dmitri nodded. "Also, the admiral in charge of the 1st Expeditionary Force reported that they are nearing the Shadow colony in Shra-Bal."
"Good," Londo said. That colony had been an insult to the Centauri for far too long, in his opinion.
"Is there anything else, Excellency?"
"I want to get in touch with G'Kar," Londo said. "See if you can make that happen."
"At once, Excellency!" Dmitri said, and practically sprinted off to begin his task.
Londo smirked, bemused. "Kids."
Dmitri entered then. "Excellency, our agents have been unable to find any hidden motives of the Hurr when they decided to partner with the Dilgar."
"It is of no matter, anymore," Londo said. "The Vorlon armada has finally arrived in Dilgar space."
Dmitri nodded. "Also, the admiral in charge of the 1st Expeditionary Force reported that they are nearing the Shadow colony in Shra-Bal."
"Good," Londo said. That colony had been an insult to the Centauri for far too long, in his opinion.
"Is there anything else, Excellency?"
"I want to get in touch with G'Kar," Londo said. "See if you can make that happen."
"At once, Excellency!" Dmitri said, and practically sprinted off to begin his task.
Londo smirked, bemused. "Kids."
"I want to mow down a bunch of motherfuckers with absurdly large weapons and relative impunity - preferably in and around a skyscraper. Then I want to fight a grim battle against the unlikely duo of the Terminator and Robocop. The last level should involve (but not be limited to) multiple robo-Hitlers and a gorillasaurus rex."--Uraniun235 on his ideal FPS game
"The ability to destroy a planet is insignificant compared to the power of the Force."--Darth Vader
"The ability to destroy a planet is insignificant compared to the power of the Force."--Darth Vader