TW: Imperium IC

[Zweanslord]

Zaqaru

Enigma 7

Spoiler: House Greenflame

Show

Dear Grand Admiral Arda Saquar,

Negotiations are in progress. I will make information regarding Houses involved at a later date. If you were a part of the Vespid Crusade Coalition, I would make such information available now. However I lack any request from House Greenflame to join, so I ask patience in turn.

Yours sincerely,
Grand Diplomat Namzara Zaqaru

Spoiler: House Gilkara

Show

Dear and regal Duchess Naldris Gilkara,

How it pleases me to hear your words. I welcome your Protector to the theatre of war against the Vespids and am thrilled to know you dedicate support to our efforts. Truly, I offer you the warmest of welcomes to the Vespid Crusade Coalition and look forward to fight alongside your forces.

The matter with Lady Anoa Gilkara needs no forgiveness, for there is no ill will from me towards her in any capacity. Instead, I look forward to the day I may fight alongside her and see her boldness in action.

Yours sincerely,
Grand Admiral Sacesu Kemar

Spoiler: GM

Show

I would like to kindly request that House Lonestar’s response be given priority over other Zaqaru communications.

[ArcaneStomper]

Concerning the Freeholds
At the behest of Queen Persephone the Imperial Regency has issued a call for an Imperial council. All nobles of the rank of Duke or above are invited to Sigma Kuldav to discuss a proposal submitted by House Greenflame to establish an Imperial Decree concerning the Freeholds and the Imperium's relations to those states.

Zaqaru Dynasty

Spoiler: House Lonestar [Enigma: 5]

Show

Namzara,

I reckon we could do that. Yeah if your crusade manages to clear out the varmints we'll lead you further out. No vespids like this out when we were exploring though.

Duke Stone

Spoiler: House Berger [Enigma: 5]

Show

The forces I send in tribute will not gain me anything either way. So they have no bearing on which crusade I join. It seems to me however that playing a larger part with a single unified force will gain me more glory than splitting my forces between two crusades and playing only a minor role in each.

Do you have a more concrete reason I should support your crusade over queen Persephone's?

Duke Berger

Spoiler: House Voss [Enigma: 6]

Show

Grand Diplomat Namzara Zaqaru,

Yes, that is agreeable.

Regards,
Duchess Brechtje Voss

Exiles’ Consortium

Spoiler: The Imperial Archives [Enigma: 10]

Show

In response the consortium receives a set of data surveys on the deposits of said materials in their own borders. As well as a stack of authorization forms to be filled out by each Great House to release the information about their territories.

House Greenflame

Spoiler: House Ytterbus [Enigma: PM]

Show

Duchess Cupria doesn't need to consult anything as her databases are available at a thought, "The Liness Coalition can contribute only [21 Navy and 10 Prototypes] as we have reached the limits of our logistical capability. They will be slighty augmented over the last clash however as we were able to implement some of the new technologies we have acquired."

She sighs, "Unfortunately we expect this Vespid swarm to be [90 Fleet] at a low end. Your cousin may be better off directing his aid to building another defensive line in the Imperium's core."

Spoiler: House Severin [Enigma: 3]

Show

Your Grace Farid Saquar,

I would be most pleased to accept your aid in upgrading my research divisions. Unfortunately I only have one economic improvement to offer you, our new Deep Bore Drills, but I will send it for your scientists perusal.

Sincerely,
Count Halcyone Severin

House Gilkara

Spoiler: Laramy-Collective Treaty [Enigma: 7]

Show

There is some surprise at the treaty site to see the representatives of House Gilkara and Excagon, but they are well respected enough to press Excagon's claims.

The situation as it stands is at a stalemate. It is almost a given that the Democratic Collective will need to give up the Cordoba cluster, but queen Persephone's negotiators are also pushing for the dissolution, or at least demilitarizing of the collective itself. Something that the collective is not willing to give up. And is confidant enough in the backing of the Infinite Republic, whose negotiators are also sitting in, to resist.

In private House Excagon informs House Gilkara that they wish control of the Roselyn cluster, or hopefully Cordoba as well. They are willing to offer their scientists aid in deciphering the warp gates in return.

TRAM

Spoiler: House Vastadd [Enigma: 4]

Show

To say that they are hibernating would be too far. They are mostly dead in a way that would be permanent for most other organisms. However under certain conditions enough Vespid remains are still viable such as to amalgamate into larva and from their mature into other Vespid forms.

[A_Dinosaur]

House Greenflame

Enigma 7

Players

House Zaqaru

Spoiler

Show

Grand Diplomat,
During the original talks I had promised the Sashaw fleet, but what presses again against welledge is far greater than anticipated, and our full navy is likely required to simply maintain the gains we made during the first stages of the Liness Campaign.

Grand Admiral Arda Saquar

TRAM

Spoiler

Show

An interesting discovery, and likely very important in the coming years. But it is your discovery Duchess Isabella. What is your policy for sharing this information with the Imperium at large?

The Imperial Council

Spoiler

Show

Farid Saquar makes many speeches and showings as the council gathers, but once everyone is at the table, his words are as follows.

“The Imperium is under threat from many directions, and in truth, I believe we are fending off these threats with the tenacity and valour that would do Queen Hallow herself proud.”

The Master of the Grand Marquis grips his podium fiercely.

“But we face them alone, and alone, each new threat that besets us tempts others from the darkness beyond our Empire to take advantage of the chaos and eat a little bit more away from our might. We have no safe wall to put our backs against, no friend to support us. Alone we can fight off these threats, but we will be hard pressed to overcome them.”

“I have worked tirelessly for nearly ten years to secure an offer for the Imperium I love so dearly, and now I turn to you, my peers among the nobility. The Freeholds have long been a rival to the Imperium, we have fought as enemies many times. The offer however is thus:”

Behind Farid, the screens project the specifics, but he continues on.

“A defensive pact between the Imperium and the Freeholds. Should either party be attacked, the other will amass a fleet of [30 navy] to assist the other for a period of fifteen years, or until the wars end, should that be sooner than fifteen years.”

“The Greenflame navy can cover the majority of the Imperiums end of the bargin, though not all of it. More importantly, the agreement must be accepted by the Imperium at large, for if we are to keep this trust, and perhaps one day gain this ally, no noble looking for easy plunder may pass through Whitewyne and to the Freeholds again.”

NPCs

House Ytterbuss PM

Spoiler

Show

“We will have a few incidental forces from our vassals as well, but [90]? This is most troubling. I will see about bringing the Sashaw in as well, with the defensive advantage this time, and perhaps a smattering of mercenaries, we may just be able to hold. The Crusade that Lonestar and Zaqaru are organizing has its heart in the right place, but it will be frustrating to lose our hardfought gains in Welledge. I will need to make a few calls. You know your systems better than I lady Cupria, where do you think would be the best defensive line? Both in Welledge, and should the worst happen, in Snowbeach.”

“Also, should we perhaps invite the other members of the Liness Coalition to our talks? I called on your house specifically because there was the talk of rebuilding, but talking tactics should probably involve all of the Coalition.”

[Zweanslord]

Zaqaru

Enigma 7

Spoiler: Imperial Council regarding the Freeholds

Show

Restored King Nabuna Zaqaru	Queen Saundri Arnos

King Nabuna Zaqaru’s and Queen Saundri Arnos’ entrance is radiant. Wearing the Golden Crown with regalty, King Nabuna Zaqaru surveys the many Dukes attending. Queen Saundri Arnos looks around until she sees her brother, Duke Raudos Arnos, and exchanges glances.

The pair acknowledges Queen Persephone Hallow as equal, after which Queen Saundri Arnos offers Duke Raudos Arnos a polite and friendly nod as greeting. They move to the seats for the Akkadu sector. There, King Nabuna Zaqaru and Queen Saundri Arnos greet Duke Menard Lacross with the warmth of friends, while greeting Duchess Eshkit Zaqaru as family. Where Queen Saundri Arnos politely greets Duke Stephano Sansone, King Nabuna Zaqaru remains formal in recognition. The roles are reversed with Duchess Brechtje Voss.

A familiar greeting is offered to two other pairs Duke Ernst Berger and Duchess Litte Zaqaru, as well as Duchess Naldris Gilkara and Duke Thorral Gilkara. Duke Benjamin Stone Lonestar receives a hearty greeting, given his current plight.

As introductions finish up and the Imperial Council settles, King Nabuna Zaqaru and Queen Saundri Arnos listen to what Duke Farid Saquar Greenflame has to say. Both look unmoved by his words. The allusions towards being alone, without friends, even offers a mild look of disdain on King Nabuna Zaqaru’s face, for the room is filled with people of all stripes. Queen Saundri Arnos remains unmoved, standing stark in the face of any danger.

When Duke Farid Saquar Greenflame finishes his speech and the Council becomes vocal as neighbours discuss the matter brought up, uses the moment to gather the Dukes of Akkadu. Meanwhile, Queen Saundri Arnos looks at her brother, meeting his gaze and frowning in curiosity of his opinion.

Spoiler: House Lacross, House Voss, House Sansone

Show

King Nabuna Zaqaru speaks. “Duke Menard Lacross, Duchess Brechtje Voss, Duke Stephano Sansone. Together, we represent Akkadu. I ask for your opinion on the matter, in hopes we may come to a united answer.”

Spoiler: House Lonestar

Show

Dear Duke Benjamin Stone,

I am most pleased to know you will lead the crusade further on after a successful battle. Grand Admiral Sacesu Kemar is keen on information regarding which systems and warp gate lines there are beyond the Imperial borders and whether they were occupied by anybody before the Vespids came in.

Basically, it comes down to two things. First of all, are there any colonists that have to be taken into account beyond the borders? Second of all, please share information on the systems and gates beyond so that information can be used in strategy.

Yours sincerely,
Grand Diplomat Namzara Zaqaru

OOC: Please give this talk priority. If there is information on the systems/gates, I can make it visual!

Spoiler: House Berger

Show

Dear Duke Ernst Berger,

I believe you will find your role to be crucial and glorious in the Vespid Crusade Coalition. However, I understand that is rather abstract, as where most glory is to be obtained is most of all a result of action not yet done. Therefore, to offer something concrete, I have discussed the matter with Grand Administrator Yaadus Emit and he is willing to make available a trade offer with a special discount to aid you in your work.

From the Zaqaru Equipment Catalogue, we are willing to make available batches of 10 shipments for an upfront payment of 2 Trade, to be fully processed for production, and a final additional payment of 1 Trade upon delivery. Given your prowess in combat, I can recommend Orca Bombers with proven record in battle. For your gracious Courts, Zaqaru Jewelry is an ideal addition to any noble’s collection. Naturally, any of the other equipment are available for the same offer.

Do you find such an agreement acceptable?

Yours sincerely,
Grand Diplomat Namzara Zaqaru

Spoiler: House Greenflame

Show

Dear Grand Admiral Arda Saqaur,

New insights change the course of fleets, certainly. Ensure the safety of the Welledge star cluster, Grand Admiral Arda Saquar. Best of luck!

Yours sincerely,
Grand Diplomat Namzara Zaqaru

[Zweanslord]

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aIv8V-3erg8

Prince Sinma Zaqaru	Lady Ayanum Sibab

Journeying throughout the Imperium, Prince Sinma Zaqaru and his wife Lady Ayanum Sibab, are exploring the vast reaches of feudal civilization. They make contact with varying Dukes, Counts and Earls, descending upon planets with sprawling cities, vast plains, barren rock without atmosphere, docking with stations and space facilities seeing gas giants harvested, star phenomena studied and moons mined.

Their journey is to find out about the various economies in the Imperium. Yet their voyage goes beyond that. It is a voyage to get to know one another, to see the splendour far and wide. A learning experience in all kinds, as they deal with various cultures, people and customs. Rich sights to be seen and taken in, wondrous vistas and breathtaking views.

Yet as the two nobles travel around, in part as tourists, as students, but also in part as leaders of a humble trade delegation. They are the public view, along with an important economic advisor form Zaqaru. Earl Tanina Usash travels along them, well versed in administration and his experience and expertise betrays he is the noble in charge of an industrial colony and well educated in economy. A smooth talker, he is Gregarious and especially Gallant with the opposite sex. Even more than the noble couple, he is keen to delve into the economical information as Erudite. Yet there have been times when the couple had to reel him in as he has a Temper to him.

Earl Tanina Usash

Following in the wake of Prince Sinma Zaqaru, Lady Ayanum Sibab and Earl Tanina Usash are a handful of lesser nobility well versed in administration, a handful of economical scientists and another handful of keen commoner bureaucrats specialised in trade and industry. They represent a variety of local industries in Zaqaru. Very local indeed, for besides Earl Tanina Usash, their influence is usually limited to a minor economy in their homeworlds.

The delegation is small and on the level of even an Earl, looks more like a hobby project. In a way it is, as it is considered a learning experience. In another, its weight lies not in the economical effects, for they will be insignificant on the scale of colony economies. Local economies and individuals will be sure to profit, but in the grand scheme of things they are but negligible drops. Instead, the weight carried is one of politics. Prince Sinma Zaqaru is the son of Restored King Nabuna Zaqaru. Hospitality and deals made with the trade delegation will act as a symbol of cooperation to act as beacon to improved relations.

House Greenflame

Walking through one of the farming arcologies on Samarkand IV, the capitol world of House Greenflame, Prince Sinma Zaqaru, flanked by Lady Ayanum Sibab compliments the guide or representative of House Greenflame. Having seen the Drydock and the technological advances present in the Greenflame domain, he sees opportunity for trade with the Zaqaru trade delegation. Food and technology to import, especially given the recent increased prices of technology due to Ytterbus’ struggles. In turn, Zaqaru has enough metal and minerals to export to fuel the industries of House Greenflame.

However, first he wishes to sample the food himself in several meals with Lady Ayanum Sibab and hopes he can taste the diversity of what House Greenflame has to offer. This request may be a welcome change compared to the many questions from Earl Tanina Usash regarding technology. He seems interested in what this “SamU” is and stands for.

Zaqaru appreciates the Greenflame hospitality.

House Gilkara

Prince Sinma Zaqaru and Lady Ayanum Sibab stand gravely at the empty planet they are led to first. Especially Lady Ayanum Sibab seems to be troubled by the sight, but refrains from speaking out. Earl Tanina Usash shows little interest, more interested in the actual economy.

The result of their travels through Gilkara space find Earl Tanina Usash labelling the economy a mixed one. He seems surprised by various types of resource harvesting so deep in the core of the Imperium and Ordukr has him riled up in interest. There’s a short conflict when they have to move on, Earl Tanina Usash wanted to delve further into this matter, but there is much more to visit.

The philosophical elite estranges the noble couple, though Earl Tanina Usash investigates it in questions as a remarkable curiosity. Gilkara’s rule over it all and the citizen loyalty is clearly appreciated by Prince Sinma Zaqaru, while he seems to be struggling with the capitalistic tendencies and results there of. He grasps it well enough, but there is some disdain clouding his vision. Earl Tanina Usash on the other hand quickly thrives on the knowledge and wishes to visit places of learning.

Lady Ayanum Sibab seems particularly interested in the differences through the systems and tries to hint Prince Sinma Zaqaru to go to a particularly romantic and scenic place. She could use a little help, however, as Prince Sinma Zaqaru tries to opt for a few adventurous sites. In the end, they leave the Gilkara guide to pick their next destination.

Regarding trade offers, they offer the wealth of Zaqaru industrial materials, while seeking for an import of items efficient in propaganda and various specialized machineries, materials and products such an economy with varied markets is likely to provide. These type of products would ordinarily be imported via a interstellar trader, but bypassing such a trader would result cut out the middle person.

Zaqaru appreciates the Gilkara hospitality.

[Psilulz]

The Exiles' Consortium

The Outsider sat and stared at the reply from the Imperial Archives.

"Disappointing. I had wished to avoid such publicity."

It was a small comfort, at least, knowing that the Consortiuim wasn't a target of the Vespid, for now.

Spoiler: Blurb about the Consortium Economy

Show

The Exiled economy must be something truly odd in the Imperium. With few restraints, companies and corporations are free to pursue whichever business opportunities they wish, something very close to a free market. They are free to fight and steal from one another, as they wish. These entities constantly grow, merge, and divide. Of course, these are not just rogue megacorporations. They exist within the Consortium, with each of the 10 most profitable having a seat at the top. Of course, the 11th seat belongs to the Outsider, who wields far more power than a simple vote, having veto power over anything passed. The Outsider also acts almost as a shadow government, leading the Consortium's agents, and curtailing the worst and most exploitative tendencies of the companies.

Within Consortium space, citizens are all granted a baseline standard of living: guaranteed housing, a standard level of income, a basic level of healthcare, sustenance, and more. Beyond this, however, everything else is earned. Profitable companies, especially those holding a seat at the top of the Consortium, often hold very competitive recruitment, even for entry positions. Foul play is not only common, it is expected. After all, the companies only want the most competitive individuals.

The companies themselves, collectively, can produce almost any product imaginable, or at least know where to buy it. There are a number of resource acquisition operations on the numerous Consortium owned planets, although these tend to only be profitable in the acquisition of rare resources. With the ability to create astral vessels, space mining operations are able to provide an abundance of resources to the various factories and production centers on Consortium planets.

Engima 5

Spoiler: House Greenflame

Show

I can share some of what I've learned. The rest will require some coordination with the rest of the Imperium to be truly useful.

-O

Attached is a package detailing half a dozen different strains of Vespid including everything encountered so far as well as several more including a plasma swarmer variant, one that is basically a living railgun, and a strange one that uses gravitational singularities to warp space around it. Including are lists of known weaknesses as well as an estimate of how much it costs a Hive to grow each strain.

Enigma 0

Spoiler: The Great Houses of the Imperium

Show

Great Houses,

I have come across information that suggests that the Vespid threat is significantly more dangerous than any of us have previously realized. We have been facing mere stunted, immature forms of the creatures thus far. With access to various exotic resources, however, not only do their numbers and intelligence grow exponentially, but the Vespid will have access to higher, far more dangerous forms.

I am petitioning the Imperial Archives for access to information about the resources in each of your systems, to locate what it is that the Vespid search for. This information is vital if we are to coordinate a defense of the Imperium, and prevent the threat from getting out of control. If you are serious about facing this threat to the Imperium, please find the attached authorization forms, and send them to the Imperial Archives. Please do not encrypt the message, so that the other Houses can see that we stand united against this threat.

-O

[LimSindull]

The Imperial Council
This message is broadcast throughout the Imperium from the meeting and given there.

We commend House Greenflame for their endeavors and exclaim that there is no house equal in their nobility. Yet with that nobility comes a lack of tact.

We ask for this council to refuse this alliance. While it is a noble and even good gesture, it is an issue that we cannot afford to have right now. No doubt the honorable Greenflame will be able to supply the Empire's might to help defend the Freehold, otherwise enemies shall use this alliance to destroy us.

We hold no ill will to the smugglers and criminals of the Freeholds, but others out there will attack them to draw us away. With the Zaqaru push into the Vespids, we will be torn into three pieces and easily attacked. We have too much to worry about inside our own territory.

While this is a grand and noble thing, we cannot find wisdom for the council to accept. This will be another gear in the threat against the Empire. Do not do this thing.

Spoiler: Zaqaru: Enigma 5

Show

Indeed soon you should soon be with our protector.

Naldris Gilkara.

Spoiler: TRAM: Enigma 5

Show

Perhaps we should warn the rest of the Empire. All collections of Vespid carcasses should be brought to us and filtered to wean out any potential for them to re awaken.

Spoiler: DCOTP Negotiations Enigma: 5

Show

House Gilkara proposes that The DCOTP not be demilitarized. This will save us from war if they are absorbed into Empire. We care about the citizenry as much as they claim to. Which is why we have pushed for their annihilation in the past. Now, times are different.

An enemy that will only become an unstoppable force that devours our universe is at our door. We cannot afford to fight another enemy. We must demand that the DCOTP break ties with the Infinite Republic. They are a threat to our way of life. We ask that their diplomats return home being successful in helping their friends.

The DCOTP must surrender the Cordoba cluster, keeping one system as their own and splitting the others to House Lonestar's people and the Excagon family. The Lonestars are refugees and need a home to go to, and the Excagon can provide stability to the region. For that, they will also need the rest of the Roselyn Sector.

If the DCOTP is willing to help build these systems up, they may take two systems in the Cordoba Sector.

We propose that the DCOTP keep their military might, and use it to help defend our Empire form the Vespid swarms. They have a large military might and if they show their willingness to defend us and themselves as one, they should keep the rest of their territory.

If the Hallow Queen is untrusting, we would like to propose that she keep one fleet at each of their planets. The DCOTP should also help in the rebuilding of the planets destroyed by the Vespid Swarms.

This is to be taken as a show of faith for the DCOTP. If they are willing to be part of the Empire and help us stand, then they need no friends in the Infinite Republic because they have friends here to stand with them.

Spoiler: Excagon Family PM

Show

Our dearest friends. We ask that you go along with the Exile's Consortium's request. Our investigations have shown that the Vespids are not mindless monsters and clearing any reason to come to our lands is reason enough. You are on the edge of the Vespid swarms and we encourage you to use every means to turn them away.

We would also like to discuss the combination of our houses. Your blood already flows through our veins, we offer marriage to the firstborn of Naldris Gilkara to unite our houses.

Spoiler: Exile's Consortium: Enigma 0

Show

We welcome you to come and explore our lands for whatever the Vespids are after.

We encourage every house to do the same.

[Zweanslord]

Public Broadcast to all Nobles

Grand Diplomat Namzara Zaqaru

Dear Nobles of the Imperium, Recently you have all received a message from the Exiles’ Consortium. It held a request to fill in authorization forms to allow the Imperial Archives to share vital information regarding the resources in your holdings. I strongly urge you to deny any such request from a faction with such a low status and standing. Such information should not be in the hands of such an unworthy partner. While I feel we are well capable of dealing with the Vespid threat, should you wish to share such information with a noble so they can cross reference the information to better understand the Vespid direction, I would urge you to do so with a more trustworthy party. I recommend House Gilkara, for they, together with the Liness Coalition, have the longest experience fighting the Vespids, while their holdings, including numerous ones dedicates to science, are currently not under threat. Yours sincerely, Grand Diplomat Namzara Zaqaru

[LimSindull]

Unfortunately for Prince Sinma, when Naldris gets the faintest word that Ayanum Sibab is looking for a more refined time with her husband, she arranges for a very special getaway.

A resort is cleared of non noble guests and the most illustrious of floors is prepared for the royalty. This exotic location has over ten different biomes to explore with plenty of "private" locations to get lost in.

However, once they make it through the warp gate, a group of pirates, deserters from the Vespid crusades, begin firing on the envoy. The Prince is offered a fighter to join the battle.

There is a landing party that makes it through the battle and lands on the Prince's ship. He is called back to help fight onboard. He is given command of a squadron and a firefight ensues. The prince is again victorious, though some of his squad is lost in battle.

As he rescues his princess, the ship arrives at the pleasure colony. The two are ushered through the gates of the resort. Again the words on the gate read: "All things fuel the family, and the family fuels all things."


Reply to House Zaqaru House Gilkara is humbled by The Kingdom of Zaqaru's words. We are willing to lead this investigation.

[Psilulz]

Public Broadcast

Nobles of the Imperium,

No doubt, you have received a disturbing message from Zaqaru's Grand Diplomat, slandering the Consortium as low and unworthy of assisting the Imperium against the Vespid. I suppose that I cannot blame the diplomat for trying to stymie our efforts; his House's own news network failed to even correctly report basic information about the Consortium, a faction with territory in the Imperial Sector, and offensively labeled us as a "criminal element," despite an egregious lack of evidence. Even more curious, this diplomat did not even attempt to contact us to reach a more amicable arrangement for the Imperium's defense, instead, jumping at the chance to name a friend of theirs, House Gilkara, to lead the effort.

Certainly, the Consortium is always happy to work with House Gilkara. Indeed, they have been wise and honorable in our dealings past and present, just as they know the Consortium to be the same. I believe this to be why the House Gilkara gave their initial support to this proposition, and urged others to do the same. However, I do not know them to be information specialists, as the Consortium is.

However, I must insist that the Consortium continues to lead this effort for a number of reasons:

-We showed the initiative to collect this information
-We are showing the initiative to organize a proper defense of the Imperium's, instead of swinging blindly
-We appreciate the scale of the Vespid threat, and do not underestimate them
-We do not seek glory from this, and don't wish to play political games with the Imperium at stake
-We seek only limited information about a limited number of rare resources
-We will be sharing the locations of important systems with each of the Imperium's factions
-We have contributed many resources to the defeat of the Vespid, already proving ourselves in battle
-We have pure intentions; we wish to do business, and the worms make for poor trading partners

If any House or faction has any questions or desires clarification, I, of course, welcome them.

-O

[ArcaneStomper]

Spoiler: Imperial Council [Enigma: 4]

Show

Akkadu Conclave
Duchess Voss looks thoughtful, "Doing this would have no direct impact on us, but it would greatly benefit House Greenflame. In times of war they would be in charge of the Imperial fleet sent to coordinate with the Freeholds."

Duke Sansone pulls up a map of the Imperium and highlights the Freeholds. "We shouldn't forget that this alliance would come while we are dealing with the Vespids. The Freeholds would need to uphold their end of the alliance by supporting the Imperium immediately."

Duke Lacross looks skeptical, "Historically the Imperium is the greatest threat to the Freeholds. I doubt they would be keen on offering their support to defend it."

Zaqaru Dynasty

Spoiler: House Lonestar [Enigma: 5]

Show

Grand Diplomat Namzara Zaqaru,

There are settlers out there. There always are. But I don't think you're grasping what it's like. The Imperium is all nice and neat. With warp gates that only lead one place every time. The outer void ain't like that. The warp gates aren't stable. You might go through the same gate ten times and end up in ten different systems.

We've charted a few stable routes out, but that's not where the Vespid are coming from. We'd have known it long before now if they were.

Regards,
Duke Bejamin Stone

Spoiler: House Berger [Enigma: 5]

Show

Grand Diplomat Namzara Zaqaru,

Hah, I have to convey how much amusement that brings me. You are asking for us to purchase your goods for the honor of supporting you in your wars. I have not laughed so hard in years.

House Berger isn't some tiny earldom. We can upgrade our own ships and colonies. You know what would convince me though. My sister still eludes me after all these years. Word has come that she now resides in the court of House Gilkara. Your family is close with theirs. Bring her back for me and I will send my forces on your crusade.

Duke Ernst Berger

Spoiler: Excagon Family [Enigma: 5]

Show

Grand Diplomat Namzara Zaqaru,

This plan is auspicious. I will send several of my children who are most talented at warfare.

Grandmother Lahal

Spoiler: House Laramy [Enigma: 10]

Show

King Nabuna Zaqaru,

Your words to the Bergers do not trouble me. Where they choose to commit their forces is their own affair. It is your actions in Champseau I find insulting. You have materially interfered in the affairs of my vassal. Refrain from doing so again or I will know that you do not find those other matters so pressing after all.

Queen Persephone Laramy

Spoiler: House Yuliya [Enigma: 3]

Show

Grand Diplomat Namzara Zaqaru,

A very large fleet.

Regards,
Earl Yuliya

Spoiler: House Marguerite [Enigma: 3]

Show

Grand Diplomat Namzara Zaqaru,

I am willing to commit [2 Agents] to your campaign.

Earl Jaiden Marguerite

Spoiler: House Mirza [Enigma: 3]

Show

Grand Diplomat Namzara Zaqaru,

What any house needs. More resources, more men, more ships.

Earl Toma Mirza

Spoiler: House Anil, House Andile and House Viljem [Enigma: 3]

Show

Grand Diplomat Namzara Zaqaru,

As long as House Laramy is occupying the collective we have little to fear. But after they have left we will likely need aid in repelling the collective's agents as they will likely seek non military solutions.

Earl Érica Andile
Earl Samuel Anil
Earl Vasu Viljem

Spoiler: House Lacross [Enigma: PM]

Show

Duke Lacross shakes his head. "I will be frank with you, Your Majesty. What you are offering is the ability to have a one in five say in the apportionment of the majority of my most productive assets. When right now I currently have full control of them."

He shrugs, "I do not want to stand in the way of your goals, but I also want what is best for my House. And any tax at all, no matter how generous the policy, is more than we are currently paying."

"What can you offer me to offset that." He frowns, "Truly I do not know. My house is not in dire need of anything. We are already in alliance with all our neighbors. We have no enemies. Traditionally when a king approaches a duke it is at the head of an army. Either with war or the threat of one. I cannot think of many cases where duchies were swayed through peaceful means as you wish."

Exiles’ Consortium

Spoiler: House Excagon [Enigma: 0]

Show

The Excagon Family authorizes the Exiles’ Consortium to receive the data surveys from their territory.

House Greenflame

Spoiler: House Ragnarr and Guenivere [Enigma: 3]

Show

Your Grace,

We are willing to meet with House Nasser.

Earl Judit Guenièvre
Earl Natisha Ragnarr

Spoiler: House Nasser [Enigma: 3]

Show

Your Grace,

I am pleased to respond to your summons. Your investment has been most welcome so far, and I would be pleased to meet with my neighbors. I have a fair inkling of what they desire.

Earl Casir Nasser

Spoiler: Primogensis [Enigma: 4]

Show

Your Grace Saquar,

Ah has someone informed you of the Vespid's Lazarus glands. Not to worry everything harvested by Primogensis is perfectly safe. Yes, but I could see how a less meticulous operation would run into problems.

Most would be safe as well. But maybe one in one hundred swarmers harvested would still be viable. One in one thousand would end up in the correct conditions to regenerate. Most likely this would result in an infestation of crawlers. Vermin the size of dogs they eat anything and everything. I believe your Imperium has records of them, but regards them as separate non Vespid creatures. They usually don't amount to much more than pests. But under the right circumstances, namely not being killed and finding enough nutrients, they could spawn a new Vespid hive.

Of course that assumes some measure of competence. If someone were blindingly stupid and transported an entire Vespid back to their base for processing without further countermeasures they could regenerate nearly completely.

Director Howard Chen

Spoiler: Liness Coalition [Enigma: PM]

Show

"I have contacted the other members of the coalition to meet us. As for our defenses we will be mounting our stand above our capital world. It remains a good choke point, and hopefully with some time to prepare we will be able to retain our hold on it."

House Gilkara

Spoiler: Laramy-Collective Negotiations [Enigma: 7]

Show

The Collective mulls over the words of the negotiators from House Gilkara. Then they offer a counter proposal. The collective does not want to be part of the Imperium. But their efforts to leave have previously been crushed.

They would be perfectly happy to cede their protectorate in Cordoba to the Imperium if they are allowed to secede. Either way however they refuse to give up their ties with the Infinite Republic. After all without them they would not be in anywhere as strong a negotiating position as they currently are.

The Laramy negotiations are firmly against this proposal. The Imperium's territory must stay in the Imperium no matter what. They are however willing to let the Collective retain their military if they commit all their efforts to the Vespid invasion.

Spoiler: House Excagon [Enigma: PM]

Show

If you are willing to vouch for them we will authorize the Consortium to access this information.

We accept this betrothal contract to tie our houses closer together.

TRAM

Spoiler: TRAM

Show

Duchess Isabella laughs, "Hah, the other houses would never approve. They'd take it as some ploy to seize all the Vespid resources for ourselves. We could tell them of the danger, but until we can point to an example of a Vespid brood reviving we doubt the other houses would listen. After all the cautious ones will already be taking precautions. It is the houses motivated by greed that are the problem."

[Zweanslord]

Exiles’ Consortium

Prince Sinma Zaqaru, Lady Ayanum Sibab and Earl Tanina Usash find themselves scratching their head when dealing with the Exiles’ Consortium economy for various reasons. Prince Sinma Zaqaru appreciates the power held by the Outsider, though finds the freedom of the market troubling, where as Lady Ayanum Sibab finds the baseline standard of living interesting. She does ask about foul play infriging upon the baseline, curious how much of the baseline standard is just a nice maker for the citizens, while they may well be robbed out of it by cunning entrepreneurs.

Earl Tanina Usash on the other hand looks angry at the inefficiency caused by the cutthroat economy and competition. This is purely from an economical point of view, however, as it is clear that it may not be the most efficient economics wise, it does lead to excellent agent capacity as there is plenty to draw from. Then again, not as if the Zaqaru economy is as efficient as can be from the point of wealth with plenty of goods flowing to for example supply the fleet.

In the end, though, the trade convey is in conflict with two concerns. First of all is security. The freedom to gain wealth by fighting and stealing is very dangerous for foreign trading routes, which the various administrators and economists do not wish to deal with. Second of all is that the economy offers various opportunities to even foreign traders. While they will risk being exploited by the most competitive, there are opportunities to take advantage of exploiting the present free market. Still, there is a group which do not wish to take the risk. Many of the others are currently a bit at a loss how to enter the market if the security concern can be dealt with, afflicted with choice paralysis and lack of information. There are a few already looking for deals to strike, such as selling metals and importing various consumer commodities, assuming the first concern can be dealt with.

Prince Sinma Zaqaru directly brings up the security issue with their guide, while Earl Tanina Usush tries to gather information on opportunities from both their guide as well as other representatives.

Zaqaru appreciates the Gilkara hospitality.

House Gilkara

Prince Sinma Zaqaru, brave as he is, immediately dives at the opportunity to fight pirates in a fighter. He proves to be an excellent pilot, well capable of pulling of all kinds of tactical maneuvers that would normally be out of reach for those versed in economics. Acting swiftly when he hears there is a fight onboard, he returns and leads with the charisma of a true noble, striking at the landing party and quickly winning, despite losses.

Barely breaking a sweat, Sinma Zaqaru proves he has prior combat experience. He did fight against a Nebula Hydra, after all. Gladly saving his princess, he does note to the Gilkara representatives they should do something about their pirate problem, clapping them on the back with a knowing smile.

At the resort, the two look at the words again and look at each other with a soft smile. They enter the exotic locations, floors, biomes and enjoy their escapade from the usual economics, leaving Earl Tinana Usush to actually get the trade deals through.

Prince Sinma Zaqaru and Lady Ayanum Sibab enjoyed their visit at House Gilkara.

Enigma 7

Spoiler: Imperial Council

Show

Akkadu Conclave

King Nabuna Zaqaru listens closely to the words of Duchess Voss, Duke Sansone and Duke Lacross. “Each of your words hold merit.”

Looking over the map, King Nabuna Zaqaru looks at the map pulled up by Duke Sansone and gestures to the border shared by House Voss and House Greenflame. “This alliance would benefit House Greenflame,”

After which he gestures only a small part of the map further, to the border of the Imperium leading to the Freeholds, the other flank of House Greenflame. “while asking the Freeholds to immediately offer support to their greatest historical threat.”

“Should they do so, I can only suspect ulterior motives.” The King draws a gesture to show how the distance between those borders and Akkadu are relatively small compared to the entirety of the Imperium. “Based on each of your words, I conclude the best course of action would be to disapprove of this alliance.”

King Nabuna Zaqaru looks at his speaking partners from the Akkadu Sector. “Agreed?”

Spoiler: House Gilkara

Show

Dear Duchess Naldris Gilkara,

I wish to know whether House Gilkara would be willing to transfer Anna Berger, who I have I have reason to believe is in your custody. If so, I kindly ask under what terms this would be possible.

Yours sincerely,
Grand Diplomat Namzara Zaqaru

[LimSindull]

While Prince Sinma and Lady Ayanum spend their leisure time at the resort, Earl Usash is ushered offworld to Erzak, the Elder Anvil. It was a tight cluster of asteroids that were rich in many precious metals and elements needed to forge ships that could withstand warp gate travel. Now, this cluster is no longer mined, but built together to form a large shipyard. It's almost null gravity allows the construction of large vessels without the need of trying to get them off planet. Later technology would assist in that, but this step allowed the Earl of Thoral to construct his first large scale vessels.

Here, Earl Usash is introduced to Glordek Gilkara. Glordek is constantly jumping to different subjects and will stop mid sentence to begin studying some subjects on his holopad. Getting him back off is no menial task.

Glordek does, however, make a schedule that includes Earl Usash. During this time a proposal is brought up. For the precious materials provided by Zaqaru, Filo will provide ample material to show the commoners the greatness of the royalty.

Filo also offers to explore the kingdom's systems to help develop better sites for new colonies.

Spoiler: Zaqaru: Enigma 5

Show

Grand Diplomat,
I does me no pleasure to tell you that I cannot help you in this. Filo will keep its ear to the ground for you. And I implore you to use more discretion in your search. The story of Lord Berger's demise is surrounded in assassination, and even your mentioning it will probably seem some fruitless adventures in our lands. We do hope that you find her before they do.

Naldris Gilkara.

Spoiler: TRAM

Show

"Are we that kind of group? If so, then we should push ahead with the plan, better to gain a few than to lose all. And if we are not, then we are here to help the Imperium. And in that manner, we will diligently prove ourselves worthy. This threat is going to last for decades, maybe hundreds of years. We can't have a new hive popping up in Hallow in fifty years because we aren't willing to lose face."

Spoiler: DCOTP Negotiations Enigma:5

Show

To Laramy: What are you hoping to gain in these negotiations. What end will leave you satisfied?

To DCOTP: What are you hoping to gain from these negotiations. What end will leave you satisfied?

In meeting: First, what does the succeeding mean? You can't move the systems because they’ll always be in the physical Imperium. If it is autonomy you are seeking, then stop your war and help us fight the Vespids. There is no King or Queen over your territory right now, you would be able to do as you please.

[Zweanslord]

Zaqaru

House Gilkara

Earl Tanina Usash relishes in the sight of Erzak, the Elder Anvil. He asks various questions about the site and requests a tour of it. He signs the deal with Glordek Gilkara regarding the trade of precious materials for goods that will allow commoners to appreciate the greatness of royalty. He does get rather frustrated when Glordek jumps to different subjects and at one point angrily shouts at Glordek to finally pay attention to the dela and sign it so they can wrap it up! When things are finally handled and Earl Tanina Usash is venting his frustration in a private room, he practically demands that guided tour of Erzak, where he is capable of being distracted from his anger.

Meanwhile, there are a few others of the trade envoy who quickly try to pick up the slack, apologise and smooth things over considering the temper displayed by Earl Tanina Usash. One of them steps up and asks a number of questions.

Zaqaru appreciates the trade deal.

Enigma 7

Spoiler: House Gilkara

Show

Trader: “Could you explain what the offer to explore and develop means, as well as what you are asking for in return? In addition, could this offer be made available outside of the Zaqaru Kingdom as well?”

---

Dear Naldris Gilkara,

Such unfortunate news. Please let me know if you hear anything.

And fear not, the enigma of Zaqaru messages should be sufficient to stave off unwanted attention of the likes you mention.

Yours sincerely,
Grand Diplomat Namzara Zaqaru

Spoiler: House Lonestar

Show

Dear Duke Benjamin Stone,

Thank you for your words of wisdom. That certainly makes exploration in the void a challenge. I have passed on this information to Grand Admiral Sacesu Kemar for consideration. He will contact you and the other participants of the Vespid Crusade Coalition to settle a strategy. Again, thank you.

Yours sincerely,
Grand Diplomat Namzara Zaqaru

Spoiler: House Berger

Show

Dear Duke Ernst Berger,

I am delighted to know I can provide such amusement to Your Grace. Truly I am honoured honoured to know I have brought laughter to one of such great status and you have my gratitude for sharing that with me.

In the meantime I have contacted House Gilkara regarding your sister, but the Duchess denies she is in their presence. Do you perhaps have any other leads or other desires?

Yours sincerely,
Grand Diplomat Namzara Zaqaru

Spoiler: Excagon Family

Show

Dear Grandmother Lahal,

Thank you, I am pleased to know you support the plan. I will start arrangements.

Yours sincerely,
Grand Diplomat Namzara Zaqaru

Spoiler: House Laramy

Show

Dear Queen Persephone Laramy,

I am glad that House Berger can continue as desired.

However, you insult me with your accusation of intervention. Zaqaru forces are merely passing through Champseau. This was previously authorized by House Laramy. The Zaqaru Armada travelled to fight the Vespids.

I have reason to believe it is instead Laramy forces who are interfering with my affairs. I politely ask that my subjects are left alone.

In turn, you have my promise that my forces will only move through Champseau, as there are indeed important matters to address, most notably the Vespids.

Yours sincerely,
King Nabuna Zaqaru

Spoiler: House Yuliya

Show

Dear Earl Yuliya,

It is my profound hope that the Vespid Crusade Coalition is able to gather a very large fleet to secure your home sector from the Vespid threat. Gladly I would see a very large fleet under your command so you may contribute and participate.

I would like to help you in what capacity I can, even if my means are limited. Tell me, as Earl to Earl, what limits you? Are you a humble House without the means to fully expand in your system and build defenses, or have you done so and lack further colonies to support a fleet?

Yours sincerely,
Earl Namzara Zaqaru

Spoiler: House Marguerite

Show

Dear Earl Jaiden Marguerite,

A pleasing offer. Allow me to offer [2 Trade] in return for your support in the upcoming five years. As this is an agreement where you offer services in return for payment, I expect your agents to work at the behest of Zaqaru in the Vespid Crusade Coalition. This means leaving any resources to be gained from the Vespids to Zaqaru and sharing what intelligence you gain during the time of service provided. In turn, I offer the trade for your services in an upfront payment. In five years time we will meet again to see if we may conduct further business. Do you find the offer acceptable?

Yours sincerely,
Grand Diplomat Namzara Zaqaru

Spoiler: House Mirza

Show

Dear Earl Toma Mirza,

Adequately put. I am currently involved in various negotiations, so at this time I do not have an offer for you, but will certainly give it thought and be on the lookout for opportunities. After all, your location is precarious given hostile elements to the nobility nearby. Perhaps a suitable deal can be struck where both sides may benefit. Which humble activities does House Mirza involve itself in?

Yours sincerely,
Grand Diplomat Namzara Zaqaru

Spoiler: House Anil, House Andile and House Viljem

Show

Dear Earl Érica Andile, Earl Samuel Anil and Earl Vasu Viljem,

Thank you for sharing with me the details of your plight. The Collective’s agents are worrying when House Laramy ceases occupation. We have seen their actions in Cordoba.

To my understanding there are currently negotiations between both parties, but Queen Persephone Laramy has not responded to my public request for news on the matter. Your situation is dependant upon those negotiations, so I await its outcome.

In the meantime I will consider your situation and think about what can be done to protect you from the Collective. If desired, I can request Grand Administrator Yaadus Emit to offer you agent equipment at a discount.

Yours sincerely,
Grand Diplomat Namzara Zaqaru

PM

Spoiler: House Lacross (PM)

Show

King Nabuna Zaqaru looks at Duke Menard Lacross and let's out a heavy sigh as he looks forward again. "Such is the traditional course. But Zaqaru has poor experiences with the tradition of war." He shakes his head. "I do not seek war with you, for you are a friend. And as a friend, your perspective make me aware of the vast differences of territory we hold."

"Your territory lies far from the other Houses, bordering only one. Mine is flanked by three Houses, of which one has sworn vassalage to a Queen who would be happy to see my downfall. Indeed, I believe she has already taken steps to slander the Zaqaru name, expand her influence in the sector and undermine my forces. I fear she seeks to bring all in Akkadu under her rule, though luckily she is well distracted by current events. And certainly, I acknowledge House Lacross stands well away from such ambitions.”

“I well remember the late Emperor and look upon the Imperium as is. My dear father, Abolar, once told me that all the Imperium would be reunited by an Emperor soon enough. Given the current state of affairs, I doubt that will happen during either of our reigns. I do know that for both our families, being exempt from tribute is not a lasting state. I hope the Kingdom will be reunited before a new Emperor sits on the Titanium Throne.”

“Now, that does little to address the true question you brought up. What can Zaqaru offer Lacross?” King Nabuna Zaqaru looks at Duke Menard Lacross, with an intentful gaze.

“Advancement. As liege and vassal, we stand stronger together. Secure communications, greater prestige. If you chose to take seat on the Zaqaru Council as Grand Admiral, I will allow you to decide whether we should continue the Vespid Crusade Coalition in the following term, alter its course or disband it. Should you deice to go with Grand Scientist, you will rally the council to the next science projects.”

“Currently, Grand Scientist Gupta Caksya believes next term it is possible to start developing an experiential industry, a super prototype she calls it, which will pave the way to full advancement of all industries in a decade time. Should she be right, I will allow all my vassals access to upgrade their industries at cost price. She believes it is possible to enact similar projects for other fields in time afterwards, though I will admit that the Zaqaru scientific capabilities are strained as is and unable to match her ambitions.”

“Besides the offered trade deal for equipment at regular cost price from the Zaqaru Catalogue, I will grant vassal Dukes access to the Commerce Archives as they become available. The Grand Scientists hopes to complete some within the term.”

“As for why I am offering this, I do not merely seek to reunite the Kingdom. I seek for the the Sector, the Kingdom, to thrive. It will be necessary to compete and not fall behind, which I suspect this Sector is already doing. Already, four factions have aligned in a cooperative manner called TRAM. House Laramy is a tremendous power bloc. I expect the Liness Coalition to become a lasting power bloc.”

“An alliance is not enough. We must stand as a Kingdom to meet the demands of this time, to act in full trust.”

[Zweanslord]

Zaqaru

Vespid Crusade Coalition

• Zaqaru
• House Lacross
• House Voss
• House Lonestar
• Excagon Family
• House Gilkara
• House Okeke
• Triune Pact
• House Marguerite

Enigma 7

Spoiler: Vespid Crusade Coalition

Show

Grand Admiral Sacesu Kemar

“Welcome, everybody.”

Grand Admiral Sacesu Kemar looks over the large command room to each of the representatives of the Vespid Crusade Coalition. They are aboard a Zaqaru Carrier in the Rayview Sector, invited at the behest of Grand Admiral Sacesu. Each of them has vested with the power to speak on behalf of the fleets the force they are representing is sending on the Vespid Crusade, an initiative started by Zaqaru to liberate House Lonestar’s capital of the Vespids. Each of the representatives has been welcomed in hospitality and has received a personal greeting and welcome from Grand Admiral Sacesu Kemar before the strategy meeting. Sacesu Kemar bears the title of Earl and Grand Admiral, while others may be sending representatives with only military rank, noble title or only a diplomatic status.

“Thank you for attending the Vespid Crusade Coalition strategy meeting. I am honoured each of our forces will be fighting together against a common foe. We are gathered to determine a strategy against the Vespids infesting House Lonestar’s capital system.”

“The primary objective will be to beat back the Vespids currently infesting the Lonestar capitol system and threatening to move deeper in the Ashvale star cluster and Imperium territory.”

“However, I believe we can do more, and we desire to do more.” Grand Admiral Sacesu Kemar gestures to the representative of House Okeke. “House Okeke seeks to learn more of the warp gates.” Then he gestures to Duke Benjamin Stone, representing House Lonestar. “House Lonestar seeks to bring back to safety to their capital.” Then he gestures to the others. “And we seek to defeat the Vespid threat so it may not reach further.”

“To do so, we must reduce the strength of the Vespids. Therefore, I propose the following plan.”

“We seize the next system.” For a moment, Grand Admiral Sacesu Kemar looks around to check everybody’s reaction.

“It is unknown which gates are present in the next system, but while the fleet of the Vespid Crusade Coalition draws out the main forces of the Vespids and keeps them occupied, a group of explorers will traverse into the next system through the warp gate stabilised by the new Vespid strain. There, they will find out from which warp gate the Vespids are bolstering their forces.”

“Armed with that knowledge, a quiet Vanguard, composed of fleets and agents, will separate from the main forces to maneuver through the Vespid territory and strike the Vespid infestation on the warp gate, reducing further reinforcements as it is expected the warp gate will destabilise without the Vespid strain stabilizing it. In either case, scientists will then work, protected by the Vanguard, to stabilize the warp gate to another system.”

“The Vespid supply line will then be disrupted towards the capital of House Lonestar, meaning the fleet will have an easier time to secure victory. The scientists will then move to stabilize the warp gate between the capital of House Lonestar and the adjacent system, so the Vespid strain stabilizing the warp gate may be removed, though may be studied in the meantime as well. The Imperium will gain territory and deny territory of the Vespids from which they can draw forces. The Lonestar capital will no longer lie directly adjacent a Vespid supply line. The remainder Vespid in the adjacent system can be removed and the remains of the battles may be harvested. Should the adjacent system branch of to other systems which are not the source of reinforcements, but a Vespid outpost, it may be easily cleared as well, if not immediately.”

“Now, I fully realise this plan carries risks. The easiest strategy would be to fight the Vespids and hope we can beat them back. However, we risk a stalemate that way, with the Lonestar capital as continuous battlezone. The plan I propose involves cutting off their supply lines, which if done soon enough, will allow us to ensure their swarm cannot be fully brought to bear against the Lonestar capital. By doing it one system further than the Lonestar capital, we lower risk for the capital with its many human lives and gain a territorial advantage.”

“The plan does depend on the adjacent system not receiving multiple sources of reinforcements, as we are unlikely to be able to cut off several lines. Therefore, brave explorers will be critical.” Grand Admiral Sacesu Kemar looks at Duke Benjamin Stone, knowing just how brave his explorers are.

“Warp gate manipulation should tie well into the expertise of House Okeke.” Grand Admiral Sacesu Kemar looks at the representative of House Okeke and nods.

“Together with a part of the Zaqaru fleets, the Excagon’s support will form the Rayview Vanguard. I propose it is this Vanguard, in the cover of agents from House Voss, will move forward to defend the warp gate manipulation scientists.” This time, Grand Admiral Sacesu Kemar looks at the representatives of House Voss and the Excagon Family.

“Zaqaru, House Lonestar, House Lacross, House Gilkara, the Triune Pact, House Marguerite, will all dedicate their forces to draw out the Vespids to defeat them in the Lonestar capital system.”

“I hope more will join the Vespid Crusade Coalition, but this is the plan I propose. As fallback, we may still turn all our forces to beat the Vespids and instead seek to rid the warp gate in the Lonestar capital of the Vespid strain, after which scientists, protected by the Rayview Vanguard, are protected to manipulate the warp gate and stabilize it to another system than the one the Vespids are arriving from. It would allow us to concentrate our fighting forces better, but the same applies to the Vespids, who would be more difficult to draw away from the scientists. While the fallback plan takes less risks, we would not be able to deny as much territory to the Vespids. Nevertheless, I suggest we use this fallback plan should there be too many reinforcements paths found by the explorers.”

“Should each of you have other plans, please share them here. Otherwise, I will ask whether you find the strategy I propose plan agreeable. If not, whether you find the fallback plan agreeable. Should that still be unsatisfactory, I truly propose to come forward with another strategy.”

Spoiler: House Voss

Show

Prince Nidaadea Zaqaru

Dear Duchess Brechtje Voss, At the Hallow Conference, the Shadow Cult escorted you. My son, Erossum, ten years old, has expressed a strong desire to be tutored as agent by Your Grace and Your Grace’s contacts to the Shadow Cult. Erossum is a cunning and unscrupulous boy, though Indolent, which I hope he will grow out of. He’s still Affectionate, which is why I believe he looks up to Your Grace. In public he may be Timid, but I know him as a very Willful person. I would greatly appreciate it if you could make my son’s wish a reality.

PM

Spoiler: House Jinks (PM)

Show

A request for a private audience with Duke Jinks arrives through a black market trader. Waiting a foreign noble who desires to discuss a trade opportunity with an eye for privacy.

Spoiler: If accepted…

Show

The dark hood is removed from her head by wrinkled hands. An older female, bearing the title of Earl arrives at the audience. She is Earl Caksya Gupta, Grand Scientist on the Zaqaru Council.

"Thank you for accepting my request for a private audience, Your Grace."

"Duke Jinks, I have come to offer a trade agreement. I approach you, because I believe you of all the Dukes in the nobles in the Imperium appreciate the value for private business best and will leave no mention of this meeting in your records."

"As the Vespids beset the Liness Sector, I believe there lies an opportunity for House Jinks. Your territory does not border the Outer Reaches from which the Vespids may strike House Ytterbus and House Kelse. Without immediate that and the right build up of forces to protect the Sector, you are well positioned to become King of Liness, instead of the robotic Ytterbus, who have forsaken their humanity, or the naive House Kelse, chasing false ideals."

"In that perspective, I offer you four fleet and five market blueprints, with the understanding that the source of the blueprints is to be kept quiet. In return I ask blueprints as well, of any type, where I will remain secret about their origin."

"Should it be the case you do not have enough blueprints to offer in return, I could offer a target your agents may visit to liberate blueprints from and I will be satisfied with whatever is obtained, even if less than I offer. In turn, this would allow House Jinks not just access to my offer, but the so liberated knowledge as well."

"Duke Jinks, what do you think of my offer?"

[A_Dinosaur]

House Greenflame

Enigma 7

Players

The Exiles Consortium

Spoiler

Show

Outsider,
I have been made aware of strain of Vespid degeneracy known as Crawlers. Dog sized creatures that are known for being ravenous pests. Has your search of the Imperial Archives revealed anything relating them and the Vespids, or cases where they attempt to form any kind of hive structure?

It seems the Vespids have glands that could create these crawlers out of the vespid’s carcass, and these crawlers could potentially form a new vespid. I am not sure that the Imperium knew of the connection before, but any information would be most appreciated.

And you may have the survey and resource data that we have on the condition that it does not go public.

Duke Farid Saquar

TRAM

Spoiler

Show

If I may interject, I have spoken with my civilian consultant who has proven to be quite adept in Vespid matters. His organization knows something of this trait, which they have dubbed the Lazarus Glands. Careful harvesting and sensible storage should be enough to mitigate this particular threat, but with the haphazard harvesting of recent years some houses may be at risk of a pest infestation of ‘crawlers’, which are not uncommon, but are apparently actually related to the vespid strains.

I believe it would be best to simply publicize this information, and to devote some of our agreed on research budget to making a guide for the safe harvesting of a vespid.

More worryingly, apparently if a vespid carcass is captured whole there is a decent chance of complete recovery, even from apparent death. This above all else I wish to warn you of, and I intend to make an announcement to the Imperium at large soon.

Imperial Council

Spoiler

Show

“I believe the points of House Gilkara and Duke Lacross coincide quite neatly. Historically, the Imperium has long pressured the Freeholds. My house itself is a testament to that. They have been involved in few conflicts against others and thus are not terribly likely to be attacked simply to weaken the Imperium. Even if they were, their enemy would weaken themselves far more than us to open up a new front just to draw a relatively minor Imperial force away. They would be leaving themselves far more vulnerable than they would make us. And the Freehold is encouraged to hold up their end of the deal by the implied non-aggression pact that a defensive alliance would bring. They have almost never sought a war with us.”

Duke Saquar turns to Duchess Voss.

“I understand your trepidation good Duchess, but I intend to be mostly in charge of that fleet anyways, since it will be made primarily of Greenflame assets. The required contribution of the Imperial Navy and other houses will only shrink in the coming years, as my house strengthens its navy to meet the Vespid threat. While I of course hope this might bring prestige to our name, I only intend to honour the details of the Defensive Agreement. If the Imperium decides that intervention beyond the warrant of the pact is necessary, then I hope the future Emperor will be able to step in and supercede Greenflame command.”

And to House Zaqaru.

“This is why we have brought things before an Imperial Council, and not dealt behind closed doors where motives might fester. What better motive might the Freeholds have than close off their greatest historical threat for the price of sending a portion of their fleet when and IF the Imperium, historically a robust polity, is attacked. As a side benefit they also gain aid when they are threatened.”

And to the room at large, while gesturing at the Akkadu’s map.

“The Imperium faces a great threat from the north, and our politics with the Infinite Republic are balanced on a knife's edge. The Vespid threat continues to grow, and the long term answer to that threat is unclear. This Defensive Agreement buys us time and breathing room. I urge you to think of the plight of Liness and Rayview, and for temporarily set aside rivalries of the past to consider the predicaments of the present.”

NPCs

Linpond Meeting

Spoiler

Show

Farid begins the meeting and fills in the Count and earls of the previous conversation.

“Now to the Earls your houses are both military, and your initiative is appreciated. I have a position hollow in my court for an admiral, and my houses current Grand Admiral is getting older. How fare you for large scale fleet operations?”

House Laramy PM

Spoiler

Show

Before the Imperial Council…

“If I may ask, Your Highness, House Mallarch had its roots in mercenary work and I find myself in need of mercenaries. But they are now vassal to your house, and I do not wish to pull them in two directions unnecessarily. Do the structures of your relationship allow them to continue acting as mercenaries where they see fit?”

The Liness Coalition PM

Spoiler

Show

Admiral Adra fills in Jinks and Kelse in on military matters discussed already.

“We have some funds saved up, and honestly we are not the poor house we once were. I think my cousin would be willing to hire the House of Steel, pardon me, House Mallarch if they are still available. If not Mertens can probably find fleets willing to work for coin somewhere, they are clever like that. And if this Imperial Council goes well we might even be able to rely on some foreign firepower.”

“Regardless, before any of that is factored in we are looking at around [65 navy] counting prototypes and equipment. Defending the warpgates and clever tactics will push that up to a very rough guess of [78 navy]. Thats not enough to hold of the approaching swarm, but if we can just scrounge up [15 navy] more from various sources I think we have a good shot at this defence. With the numbers Farid is tossing around, we have enough money to get that from either Mallarch or Mertens, assuming either has available navy to be hired. Personally, I would prefer Mallarch, the recent politics with the Queen might be a little uncomfortable, but the Steel Fleet was better than the Haytham at one point, and I doubt they have slacked off since we last checked.”

[Zweanslord]

Zaqaru

Enigma 7

Spoiler: House Arnos

Show

Dear Duke Raudos Arnos,

Some time has passed since last we spoke. You would discuss with House Okeke on the best course of action. Know that if it is your wish to send forces to the Vespid Crusade Coalition and aid House Lonestar, I welcome you to the Vespid Crusade Coalition’s strategy meeting.

Yours sincerely,
Grand Diplomat Namzara Zaqaru

Spoiler: Imperial Council

Show

“Duke Farid Saquar Greenflame, there is no when or if. The Imperium is under attack.”

“As Duke Stephano Sansone mentioned, the Freeholds would need to support the Imperium against the Vespids immediately to uphold their end of the alliance. By the words of Duke Farid Saquar Greenflame, the long term answer to the Vespids is still unclear.”

“I see not what benefit the Freeholds stands to gain if they fear no other threat, for clearly the Imperium is preoccupied and there is no public news that any of us is pressuring the Freeholds. The Haythem fleet is far away from their space, after all.”

“Therefore, my own suspicions on ulterior motives has only grown stronger by your words, Duke Farid Saquar Greenflame. While the Imperium may stand to gain support of the Freehold fleets against the Vespids for fifteen years with this agreement, I have not heard such a concession.”

“Considering the Freeholds do not pose a current threat, as they seek a defensive alliance, the Imperium gains no time or breathing room by this defensive agreement. When I think of the plight of Liness and Rayview, I am more set at ease by knowing we need not worry about our forces being distracted by threats to the Freeholds, than by the knowledge we will gain a temporary and questionable support.”

“Instead of looking to the Freeholds, I turn to those who I have far greater faith in. The High Nobility of the Imperium, gathered here. Almost all of us have dedicated forces to deal with the Vespids. To the those of whose support is unknown, I now turn to. House Starosta, House Barlow, House Tehrani, House Gadhavi and the Universal and Empyrean Church of the Blessed Eternal. By whatever means you are willing to dedicate to the Imperium, I invite you to join or support the Vespid Crusade Coalition to crush the Vespids threatening the very borders of our great Imperium in the Rayview sector.”

[ArcaneStomper]

House Gilkara

Spoiler: Laramy-Collective Negotiations [Enigma: 7]

Show

The Democratic Collective: Borders are what people make of them. There is nothing objectively set about the Imperium's borders. Indeed they have fluctuated for centuries as the various noble houses expanded and collapsed. There is nothing preventing us from leaving the Imperium other than the physical force exerted by the Imperial Navy.

House Laramy: And we will continue to carry out that fight. The Imperium will not fragment while we stand watch.

The Democratic Collective: And thus our stance on secession. As for autonomy you may be confused. We did not start this war. House Laramy did. And they did so solely to win points in their own civil war. Can you not see why we would refuse to demilitarize when any noble house might decide to attack us with no provocation.

House Laramy: No provocation! As if the constant military posturing along your borders did not set the whole sector on edge. And that is why the Collective must be demilitarized. So that we can address other priorities without worrying about your beligerence.

House Zaqaru

Spoiler: Imperial Council

Show

Akkadu Conclave
The greater nobility of Akkadu doesn't want to commit to anything until they hear what else House Greenflame has to say on the matter.

Spoiler: House Berger [Enigma: 5]

Show

Grand Diplomat Namzara Zaqaru,

Leads such as multiple corroborated eye witness reports tracking my sister's journey to House Gilkara territory. Or the correspondence between House Voss and House Gilkara where they agreed to the transfer. No, I dare say we don't have any other leads.

As for other enticements. If you could offer some manner of territory, then I would be interested.

Sincerely,
Duke Ernst Berger

Spoiler: House Laramy [Enigma: 10]

Show

King Nabuna Zaqaru,

Very well, if that is how you wish to approach this. Then I shall do likewise.

Queen Persephone of Hallow

Spoiler: House Yuliya [Enigma: 3]

Show

Earl Namzara Zaqaru,

Our territory is simply too poor to support a large presence. We have made the best use of it that we can, but there is little more we can do.

Regards,
Earl Domenica Yuliya

Spoiler: House Marguerite [Enigma: 3]

Show

Grand Diplomat Namzara Zaqaru,

That is agreeable.

Regards,
Earl Jaiden Marguerite

Spoiler: House Mirza [Enigma: 3]

Show

Grand Diplomat Namzara Zaqaru,

We mainly work with the Imperial Bureaucracy. Many civil servants originate from our House. But that has little impact when everything is under lockdown such as now.

Regards,
Earl Toma Mirza

Spoiler: House Lacross [Enigma: PM]

Show

Duke Lacross shakes his head, "An alliance would be enough. The TRAM and Liness Coalition are both alliances. House Laramy was a major power even before it gained vassals. Me swearing fealty to you would not make us any more powerful that us working together as partners. From an outsider's perspective they are equivalent."

"As it stands the costs to swearing fealty outweigh the benefits you are offering. There are two factors that could change the equation. A concession that House Zaqaru will demand no tribute or levies from House Lacross. Or increased territory to offset the tribute levied."

[Zweanslord]

Zaqaru

Enigma 7

Spoiler: House Berger

Show

Dear Duke Ernst Berger,

What you bring forth is certainly convincing, I will revisit the current lead.

As for territory, Grand Admiral Sacesu Kemar is attempting to garner support amongst the Vespid Crusade Coalition to take territory from the Vespids. I have not yet received word on how well that is going, but with your aid that is a lot more feasible and I believe worthy fo your consideration.

Yours sincerely,
Grand Diplomat Namzara Zaqaru

Spoiler: House Yuliya

Show

Dear Earl Domenica Yuliya,

Considering your situation, two options spring to my mind, which I would like to discuss with you for consideration. Gaining advanced equipment to bolster the strength of a fleet, or markets to increase wealth, could help your position. If you have not developed those already, have you considered purchasing them?

In your position, I would personally strive to become a Count, but the prestige so required may be yet out of your reach. This would increase trade opportunities to increase wealth. I am sure your neighbour Dukes would be willing to grant such a title, though they will likely ask vassalage in exchange. This could be worth considering, or if you desire no such ties, perhaps services may be offered to another noble in exchange for a noble title without vassalage?

I am merely trying to think along given your position and see what opportunities present themselves. I would like to hear your thought on the matter.

Yours sincerely,
Earl Namzara Zaqaru

Spoiler: House Marguerite

Show

Dear Earl Jaiden Marguerite,

Thank you. I look forward to your assistance. I have ordered the transport underway for your payment.

Yours sincerely,
Grand Diplomat Namzara Zaqaru

Spoiler: House Mirza

Show

Dear Earl Toma Mirza,

Given the duty your people fulfill, I start to understand why you believe a Crusade is too grandiose an undertaking for House Mirza. Though I am deeply surprised, given the lockdown leaving the same people available for own use, why is it that House Mirza has not yet claimed the grander title of Court in the meantime? As they are ready work at your own behest, surely nothing stands in the way of bureaucracy there.

Yours sincerely,
Grand Diplomat Namzara Zaqaru

Spoiler: House Gilkara

Show

Dear Duchess Naldris Gilkara,

Recent information has given me the perspective that Your Grace can well help me in my aforementioned search. Given this contradicts an earlier statement, may I ask why Your Grace would be unwilling to do so?

Yours sincerely,
Grand Diplomat Namzara Zaqaru

PM

Spoiler: House Lacross (PM)

Show

“I cannot offer no tribute or levies as such. I am bound by the Zaqaru Crown Laws, as any Zaqaru King. While I can bring up law changes to the Zaqaru Council, the shift from Focused Levy and Tax Distribution to Seperate Laws and lowering them to zero, to apply to all Dukes, would be too great a step to arrange in the current term and I am doubtful whether I would have enough support.”

“However, I could move the Focus of Tax and Levy to Heavily Levy Focused, which given the current situation we find ourselves in will be easy to convince the Zaqaru Council of. In turn, I promise you that I personally will not call you to arms under the word of vassalage. This would effectively grant you the concession you seek.”

“Still, your words leave me thinking.”

“Should we form a bond of liege and vassal, our Courts will cooperate well enough that our communication lines would be as safe as the current discussion, freeing up room for other private communications. Where the communication allows a closer cooperation, the bond is a base of trust, under which I am willing to make the offer of equipment, research and eventually upgrading of facilities.”

“As partners and allies, such cooperation would fully occupy our communication and I would be unwilling to allow such access to equipment, research and upgrades without suitable counteroffer. Given you state a belief that an alliance is sufficient to work together with the same strength, how do you see such a relation?”

[LimSindull]

Spoiler: Zaqaru: Enigma 5

Show

Forgive me for being rude, but you have failed to take any hint. A whole of a Kingdom that would be interested in this line of communication lies between us and a few well placed agents would slice down any encryption into child's play. You either can drop this subject or meet face to face. But before we meet, I demand to know who is responsible for turning your eye towards my house and family.

Naldris Gilkara.

---

To the trader: We are offering to send some of our traders to look at colony worlds. Looking at their materials we can help decipher what would best go on these sites in a logistical sense. This would benefit that type of site and make it a tenth more efficient. This site would have to be constructed by our builders if the location is found suitable.

Spoiler: TRAM

Show

We will stand behind this coalition, whatever you decide.

Spoiler: DCOTP Negotiations Enigma:5

Show

The true threat to the Imperium is the Infinite Republic. They are the backing force behind the DCOTP.

We suggest that the DCOTP become a demilitarized zone between the Infinite Republic and ourselves. Let them be a neutral party, a line, a barrier between us. Allow them to have autonomy. And allow both sides to have their agents freely move to inspect for military involvement.

If both sides find no compromise, then you will be trapped in war.

Spoiler: Vespid Crusade Coalition

Show

This is a well thought out plan. We will back the Zaqaru fight.

[ArcaneStomper]

House Gilkara

Spoiler: The Collective-Laramy Negotiations

Show

The collective representatives look furious, "We won't allow our territory to be used a bargaining trip in this way. Even if House Laramy agrees to a non aggression treaty as a part of this deal what of all the other Great Houses. Will House Laramy agree to protect us from all aggressors. How could we even trust such a treaty when they themselves were the aggressors in this conflict.

They withdraw to confer and eventually return looking resolved. "We are prepared to make a concession. During this conflict we were building a new class of next generation super dreadnoughts. They were not finished in time to participate, but they would need minimal work to become fully operational. We are willing to commit them to the defense of the Imperium against the Vespid as long as the Collective's core territories are left intact."

The Laramy negotiators look alarmed, and with good reason. There are only a few Great Houses that even have one super dreadnought. The Collective was already fielding an unreasonably high number of the gargantuan ships. To find they have advanced their designs is a threatening prospect.

Fortunately the House Excagon representatives step in to soothe the proceedings. "If you also agree to allow Laramy engineers to inspect your designs, then I am sure we can come to a mutual agreement. Perhaps when splitting the Cordoba cluster as previously discussed, the Collective can be tasked with guarding the sector for as long as they have territory there. Doing so would allow the Collective to retain their military, but positioned in such a way that they would be ill advised to make further aggressive actions.

House Zaqaru

Spoiler: Vespid Crusade Coalition

Show

House Lonestar's admiral, Admiral Nathan Bent, expresses his concerns over the plan, "It's a good plan in that it clears out the varmints and keeps em out. But I think you're treating them too much like humans. The Vespid don't really have supply lines like you're thinking. Each swarm is independent and once it's through the gate killing the gate isn't going to make it any easier to kill that swarm."

"Killing the gates should make it harder for new swarms to come in. I'll give you that."

Spoiler: House Voss [Enigma: 6]

Show

The duchess considers and then nods. "I believe I can see to the boy's education."

Spoiler: House Jinks [Enigma: PM]

Show

"It's an interesting proposition, but one that will only play out in the long term. We don't have the capacity to bring so many blueprints into production at once. And any advantage over the others would be offset by the fact that our navies are working together closely."

Spoiler: House Arnos [Enigma: 5]

Show

Grand Diplomat Namzara Zaqaru,

I will send some forces to aid House Lonestar and your crusade, but I have not finalized my plans with House Okeke yet.

Duke Raunos Arnos

Spoiler: House Yuliya [Enigma: 3]

Show

Earl Namzara Zaqaru,

Of course we have considered such plans, but our lack of resources hinder any effort to carry them out. It is a closed loop. We need resources to purchase anything which would improve our resources.

Earl Domenica Yuliya

Spoiler: House Mirza [Enigma: 3]

Show

Grand Diplomat Namzara Zaqaru,

In fact we have all the necessary documents to do so. My house excels at such things. But we don't fulfill the territorial requirements and lack the necessary labor to colonize new territories.

Earl Toma Mirza

Spoiler: House Lacross [Enigma: PM]

Show

Duke Lacross spreads his hands, "That is perfectly acceptable. An alliance is an equitable arrangement after all, and my House does not seek to reap undeserved rewards."

House Greenflame

Spoiler: Linpond Meeting [Enigma: 3]

Show

The earls shake their head and earl Guenièvre speaks up. "I'm afraid your grace may have too high expectations. Our fleets are respectable for our earldoms, but they pale in comparison to House Greenflame's armada. We have of course taken the tactical courses, and run many simulations, but we have had no opportunity to oversee any large scale fleet actions."

Spoiler: House Laramy [Enigma: PM]

Show

By all means duke Saquar. House Mallarch is free to offer the services of those fleets that I do not call up. And I believe they have quite a number available, but you may well save your money. I fully intend to take my own forces into Liness and based on my agents reports the combined fleet presence of House Laramy, House Greenflame, and the Liness Coalition will be sufficient for the task at hand.

But if you wish to hire House Mallarch for some other task, then feel free to do so.

Spoiler: Liness Coalition [Enigma: PM]

Show

Duke Kelse nods, "We were concerned that we would need to fall back once again. But with House Greenflame willing to continue their support we should be able to withstand the oncoming swarm. We won't ask you to fund all the mercenaries yourselves. House Ytterbus may have been hit hard, but their sacrifice means that House Jinks and House Kelse territory is still intact. We can shoulder our share of the costs."

TRAM

Spoiler

Show

House Vastadd: That is agreeable to us. We can release our findings to aid in writing a comprehensive guide.

House Starosta: We are conflicted about releasing this information for free, but we do see the benefit to the greater Imperium. And we would not want infestations popping up everywhere.

Imperial Council

Spoiler

Show

The wizened Grand Exarch Malraux stands up upon being addressed by King Zaqaru, "I speak for all of us when I say this is not the appropriate venue to discuss the Vespids. We have been summoned here to deal with the matter of the proposed Freehold treaty, and the Vespids are only relevant as regards whether the Freehold would aid or hinder or efforts in dealing with them."

"But since you have brought it up, I believe we are all curious as to why you are so focused on your crusade in Rayview. There are three other sectors that the Vespid are encroaching on, including your own. And by all accounts the Liness sector is facing at least as dire a threat as Rayview. Would it not be better to consolidate all the Imperium's forces and allies, including possibly the Freeholds, and deal with the threat as a whole."

"As to the Freeholds themselves. The church has no interest in annexing them, and we would not be called upon to support them. So I say let House Greenflame have their treaty." Most of the nobles from the western Imperium nod and voice their agreement.

[Zweanslord]

Zaqaru

Enigma 7

Spoiler: House Gilkara

Show

Dear Naldris Gilkara,

No offense taken at the rudeness, you are correct, I have failed to take notice of your hint. Allow me to tell you who send me your way. A vassal of the Kingdom you worry about. House Berger to be precise.

I hope you understand why I see little reason for concern from my end to discuss this matter over these channels. The party with the most interest in this was already aware of this conversation before I even started it. Considering the present evidence, either you can help me on to a new lead, which is doubtful given the very same evidence, or we can discuss an agreement, if you are so willing.

Considering you express the possibility to meet face to face, I believe the option for an agreement is present. If it is trade, or goods you wish, or the service of the very same court required for a private meeting, I believe such a meeting will not be necessary. So tell me, will a face to face meeting be needed?

Yours sincerely,
Grand Diplomat Namzara Zaqaru

---

Trader: “Thank you for the explanation. Considering it will require House Gilkara to build the colony, what do you ask in exchange? I am also curious if this investigation can be combined with construction, or whether there is a certain time span required involved. And, to repeat my earlier question, could this offer be made available outside of the Zaqaru Kingdom as well?”

Vespid Crusade Coalition

• Zaqaru
• House Lacross
• House Voss
• House Lonestar
• Excagon Family
• House Gilkara
• House Okeke
• House Arnos
• Triune Pact
• House Marguerite

Spoiler: Vespid Crusade Coalition

Show

Grand Admiral Sacesu Kemar looks at Admiral Nathan Bent and nods. “Keeping new swarms out is exactly the intention, to protect the Lonestar capital and ensure its resources will be and remain available to House Lonestar in the upcoming time. Naturally this also means every one of us can then focus all our efforts elsewhere when House Lonestar’s holdings are secure and expected to remain so.”

“However, you do raise a fair point about treating them like humans. To my knowledge, the Vespids are limited by resources in a system to create and maintain forces, as we are. I expect whatever force we are going to be fighting in the capital system is receiving reinforcements through the gate as we speak. Do you have intelligence that this is not the case?”

Meanwhile, the representative of House Arnos brought up to date on everything discussed so far.

Spoiler: House Arnos

Show

Dear Duke Raudos Arnos,

Thank you for your support, I highly appreciate it and welcome House Arnos to the Vespid Crusade Coalition! Good luck with your plans involving House Okeke, I hope they will prove of great value to you both. Let me know if you need help or have any advice or suggestions to offer.

Yours sincerely,
Grand Diplomat Namzara Zaqaru

Spoiler: House Voss

Show

Dear Duchess Brechtje Voss,

Thank you, I am most honoured you are willing to do so.

Yours sincerely,
Prince Nidaadea Zaqaru

Spoiler: House Yuliya

Show

Dear Earl Domenica Yuliya,

I have read your messages several times and while I feel for your plight, truly that cannot be the case? A closed loop suggests no room for improvement. But while your resources are scarce, I fully acknowledge that, you should have some, which will allow you to improve your resources, even if takes a long time. Naturally I see time here as the issue, as growth will be very slow.

To speak in simple terms by offering an example, should you only have a single market, you could attempt to purchase at least two market equipment, ideally more, and after having done this a few times, you should be able to double your resource income. Should you have any other colony, you could offer it in service and with the payment thereof do the very same. Or perhaps I am missing something?

Yours sincerely,
Earl Namzara Zaqaru

Spoiler: House Mirza

Show

Dear Earl Toma Mirza,

A concrete problem indeed! Which carries a very simple solution, I believe. How do you feel about offering the assistance of your civil servants in exchange for labour and goods to establish colonies in your system?

Yours sincerely,
Grand Diplomat Namzara Zaqaru

Spoiler: Imperial Council

Show

King Nabuna Zaqaru looks at Grand Exarch Malraux with a posture of regality. “You make it sound easy to consolidate all the Imperium’s forces and allies. Let me assure you, I have found it is not.”

“Rayview has my focus because my good friend” King Nabuna Zaqaru looks at Duke Benjamin Stone. “Duke Benjamin Stone is clearly need in aid. A capital besieged by Vespids, without the Armada to fend it off, unlike already present in the Liness Sector. The other sectors are dealing with scouts, not an infestation, therefore I am rallying forces to free the Rayview sector of Vespids.”

“I understand the brought up argument that this is not the venue to discuss the Vespids further. Therefore I yield the word to Duke Farid Saquar Greenflame to continue on the matter of the Freeholds.”

PM

Spoiler: House Jinks (PM)

Show

Earl Caksya Gupta speaks up. “Your Grace, I am pleased you find it an interesting proposition. However, I must admit I find it difficult to believe you do not have the capacity to use what I offer. With at the very least six markets and four courts at your disposal, that should be all that is required. And then I am ignoring what you have likely gained from the Vespid battle.”

She looks hesitant for a moment, but continues on. “If you still possess the same amount of fleets and markets at the time the Imperium fractured, what I offer should be enough to nearly double your fleet and market strength within five years time. Hardly long term, though I can imagine you may have other venues you wish to use your resources on, delaying the full effect. Still, with priority given to the markets, that should significantly increase your production capacity.”

“Regarding the advantage being offset, what do you mean? Are the Liness navies working close enough together to share blueprints?”

Spoiler: House Lacross (PM)

Show

There are several moments of silence as King Nabuna Zaqaru looks ahead in the far distance. When his eyes focus on the here, on Duke Menard Lacross, he does so with more weight to his tone. “Then what would House Lacross offer?”

[A_Dinosaur]

House Greenflame

Enigma 7

The Imperial Council

Spoiler

Show

“I am sorry, Lord Zaqaru, but there may be a piece of information that you misheard. I have been driving this effort towards a treaty with the Freeholds, not the reverse. My forebears sent probes far into the outer reaches and agents deep into the archives. The Vespids are attacking, and the Infinite Republic remains a dangerous rival, of that you are certainly correct, but these are not the only dangers in the outer reaches. I looked to these findings and judged the Imperium to need an ally, and set myself to reaching out. The Yuvan Kingdoms are sturdy but small, the Jere Jere are hateful pirates and slavers, and the Iron Church is spread thin. The Freeholds may hold different politics than the Imperium, but their location and foreign policy make them the best candidate.”

Farid turns to the gathered council once more.

“I will say again, the Imperium can hold against that which assails it. But we are like a system with many gates. Powerful but surrounded. We cannot defend our north with a knife pressed against our south,” Farid holds up a hand, one finger raised. “West, east, south west…” Each direction another finger. “But with this defensive pact, we send an important message to our rivals. No longer will assaulting the Imperium be a one on one war. Now more factions are involved. Is the Infinite Republic ready to fight on two fronts? Are they so confident they can split their forces?” One finger comes down. “Perhaps they will be one day, but they are not currently. Non-aggression with the Freeholds,” Another finger falls. “leaves our fronts against the Vespids. Liness, Rayview, and Wherever they attack next.”

Three fronts, with an unspoken fourth if the Vespids expand their attacks greatly.

“With [30 navy] extra, we may be able to hold with no more losses. I do not know the future, I am simply doing what I can for my homeland.”

Players

The Exiles Consortium

Spoiler

Show

That scouting mission may be back on the table, are you still interested?

Duke Farid Saquar
Master of the Grand Marquis

NPCs

The Linpond Meeting

Spoiler

Show

“Of course, and thank you for your honesty. Following that, are either of your houses interested in uniting with the Greenflame domain? I have previously offered gifts of direction to the Bridgecastle earls, wherein they were given trade to build up colonies and therefore influence the direction of politics in exchange for their fealty. Would such an offer interest your houses?”

House Laramy PM

Spoiler

Show

“Indeed, our combined fleets will be plenty sufficient based on our predictions. This changes things considerably for my plans, thank you for informing me.”

Liness Coalition PM

Spoiler

Show

Arda receives a priority code during a brief recess.
“I have actually just received some excellent news. We can all save our money. It seems Farid has managed to convince Laramy to lend their fleets to our cause. I apologise my message was simply in navy cant so the finer political details will have to come later. I think our original strategy was sound, with the added fleets we can reconquer to known space and fortify once we have the exit gates.”

[Hamste]

Zaqaru Prince Visit

The meeting takes place on one of the habitation stations set up for production. The station as a whole seems colorful and bright if a bit cramped with various painting, screens showing moving landscapes and other decorations lining the halls. Most of the doors are wooden with some exceptions for production areas. Small plants and trees grow in intersections of the complex. Most people are working when the prince arrives so the halls are mostly empty of life.

An extremely well dressed man in a well made suit greets the prince upon his arrival. A clear helmet completely covers his head though his smiling face can still be easily seen under the mask. A silk gloved hand held out for a hand shake.
It is a pleasure to finally meet you, Prince Zaqaru, I'm Regent Okeke. How was the trip out here? Did you have any troubles? I have to admit I was surprised you wanted to see our economy. There isn't much to to see due to most our trade coming from research and exploration but I can show you around the production facility.

A look around the facility shows it to be a mostly automated affair. Machines make a variety of circuits boards, which then have electricity being pushed through many points as a test and then it is packaged up to be sent away.

This particular facility makes circuitry for prototypes. Due to the variety of projects going on, we produce what are essentially blank circuit boards that can easily be reconfigured into what is needed with another machine or by hand. Most of them are for our own scientists with some being exported mostly to cover the material costs of the other boards.

Spoiler: The Exiles' Consortium PM

Show

The negotiator is welcomed into a private docking station in one of the space faring habitats. The dock itself isn't too notable, except possibly a little more high tech than is needed. A pleasant woman leads them away from the dock down a hallway. The entire corridor is lined with screens which show a beach like scene with a night sky above. Each door in the corridor is made out of wood and the screens around it makes it look like they lead into simple houses. Soft calming sounds of birds and ocean are piped through the hallway, though quiet enough that conversation can occur.

After just a short walk, the lady opens a door set into a slightly more opulent house than the rest revealing a room that is mostly empty except a few comfortable seats and a desk with two cups and a variety of drinks on it. Like the corridor the entire room is lined with screens even the floor and all of them are set to show a space scene. Looking down a planet can be seen fall below while a warp gate is off to the left and a Luminous One floats off to the right and behind. The entire scene seems to be moving as if the entire room is slowly moving towards the Luminous One.

An extremely well dressed man in a well made suit greets the negotiator upon him entering the room. A clear helmet completely covers his head though his smiling face can still be easily seen under the mask. A silk gloved hand held out for a hand shake.

It is a pleasure to finally meet you, Prime Negotiator Alberin. I hope you enjoyed your trip up here. Would you like a drink? I have a variety of tastes, though I suggest the Siaro Juice myself. Had it imported from Fogview and it is wonderfully delicious.

Once the opening chat is done and the drinks are served Dayo will take off his helmet which makes a slight hissing noise as it is released.

[LimSindull]

Spoiler: Zaqaru: Enigma 5

Show

Thank you for informing me of the intrusion by Lord Berger.

Naldris Gilkara.

---

To the trader: The price would be modified acording to the price of production. We are not charging for the exploration. This has been offered this many times before to nations outside of Zaqaru. Each time it has been denied..

Spoiler: DCOTP Negotiations Enigma:5

Show

Excagon offers a reasonable compromise

[Zweanslord]

Zaqaru

House Okeke

Prince Sinma Zaqaru seems unused at the abundance of wood used at a space station, moving his hand along what once belonged to a tree on occasion. Similarly, the plant life on occasion seems to make him thoughtful. It soon vanishes when things turn more to business and with a fair handshake, Prince Sinma Zaqaru meets Regent Okeke’s welcome. “Thank you for receiving me, Regent Okeke, it’s an honour. The trip was well worth it, though I feel far from home here. I’ve encountered some pirates at my visit to House Gilkara, but it was a good visit other than that.”

“To see your economy is to see one of the many economies in the Imperium. It does me well to see it.” Earl Tanina Usash nods in the background, his erudite nature making him eager to look around. Lady Ayanum Sibab, his wife, seems tired from all the business affairs on all the different visits and seems much more distracted by the plants, paintings, screens and decorations. She’s looking for more comfort, so her interest wanes further as they move through the production facility, unlike Earl Tanina Usash who seems very interested to take in all the information.

“Then I have an excellent trade opportunity. Export several of those batches to Zaqaru and we can provide the materials directly, instead of needing a trader in between.” Prince Sinma Zaqaru offers.

Zaqaru appreciates the Okeke hospitality.

Enigma 7

Spoiler: Imperial Council

Show

“Do the Infinite Republic and the Freeholds border each other? In any case, by your words the Freeholds is willing to commit naval forces now to fight the Vespids.” King Nabuna Zaqaru looks thoughtful, glancing towards Duke Stephano Sansone. His concern has been addressed.

As he looks at Duke Farid Saquar Greenflame, King Nabuna Zaqaru’s subtle shake, movement of the eyes and twitch make it clear that he believes very little of the noble words spoken by the Duke who stands to gain the most by this agreement, as both the Infinite Republic and the Freeholds border the Whitewynne Sector, where House Greenflame holds the most territory.

Still, with the concern addressed, King Nabuna Zaqaru once again turns to look at Duke Menard Lacross, Duchess Brechtje Voss and Duke Stephano Sansone, to see what they think. His gaze rests the longest on Duchess Brechtje Voss, whose holdings directly borders that of House Greenflame.

Spoiler: House Gilkara

Show

Grand Diplomat Namzara Zaqaru does not reach out again at this time.

---

Trader: “So tell me, what is the price for production, then? Zaqaru is interested to have a colony explored, but I would like to know the follow up cost.” There’s a moment of pause, before he continues. “I may have a lead on other parties who could be interested, of far smaller size. Suppose these potential clients have three or less systems, what would be the price charged for developing an explored colony? I would like to know, before this venue is further explored. Similarly, I would like to know the time span of exploration and development, in specific, whether the time span of exploration is short enough that colonisation can be started at the same time?”

[LimSindull]

Spoiler: Zaqaru: Enigma 5

Show

Our cost is 3 market. We are willing to take equal value of trade or units. The time frame requires advance movement by our market traders. We prefer to check the entire area and offer the compatible sites.

[Zweanslord]

Zaqaru

Enigma 7

Spoiler: House Gilkara

Show

Trader: “A prohibitive cost for smaller parties. I will not take effort to pursue that venue. However, if that is truly your cost to develop a colony, that is less than what it takes Zaqaru. Are you sure your calculations are in order?”

“In any case, I am confident I can interest the Grand Administrator in this proposal. Would House Gilkara be willing to investigate the colony sites Abyre Esret and Eleud Tisit?”

[LimSindull]

Spoiler: Zaqaru: Enigma 5

Show

We are happy to investigate these sites.

[Zweanslord]

Zaqaru

Enigma 7

Spoiler: House Gilkara

Show

Trader: “Thank you! Please relay your findings to Grand Administrator Yaadus Emit. We’ll be looking forward to your report.”

Spoiler: House Berger

Show

Dear Duke Ernst Berger,

I regret to inform you I have failed to persuade House Gilkara to relinquish the custody of Lady Anna Berger. There does not seem to be a basis for negotiation on the matter, I’m afraid. Beyond negotiation, I am well aware there are other means to change the where abouts of Lady Anna Berger, but those take time and may not work either. Therefore, I am currently unable to meet your demand in this venue.

Regarding your other desire, Grand Admiral Sacesu Kemar has a plan for the Vespid Crusade Coalition to take the system bordering the Lonestar capital. With your might, we stand a better chance and should you be willing to discuss the matter with House Lonestar, this system may well be obtained by your House.

Should you find this worthy of your consideration, we can discuss this matter further. Otherwise, I find myself without further means to sway you to join the Vespid Crusade Coalition at this time and intend to let the subject rest for now.

Yours sincerely,
Grand Diplomat Namzara Zaqaru