The Nephret Hotel’s Grand Opening: Empire!5 Event

[Gaius Hermicus]

Few, if any, outsiders had ever set foot on Rothuun soil before. The minotaurs were proud and nationalistic, and had previously been hostile to foreign visitors. It was, of course, a surprise when, a mere four years ago, the illustrious Urthuun Kzarna Harpooner had ordered the construction of a great hotel and resort on her home planet of Ikhal. The construction of this palatial residence was plagued by other surprises from the start: from the use of military technology and foreign mercenaries in the construction to the hiring of an openly anarchist architect and the purchase of entertainment slaves from an unsavory dealer. Of course, nothing is quite normal on Taurina I these days.

As the first foreign dignitaries enter Rothuun airspace, the normally hostile defensive orbit stations turn their guns aside and allow passage. The ships soar over the beautiful blue waters and white sands of Ikhal before landing on a runway attached to the artificial island housing the Nephret Hotel and Casino. The emerging dignitaries are greeted by security forces armed to the teeth with rifles and machetes, including a Berserker distinguished by the tattoo of a crab on his bare chest. Entering the great glass and steel double doors, they are greeted by a wild display of flashing lights, ringing buzzers, smells, colors, and grotesque statuary such as many have never seen. Although nominally a courtyard, the atrium of the hotel is shaded by a fabric tent which bathes the whole area in a ghoulish red light.

At the far end of the courtyard lies a great metal stage, flanked by four more Minotaur bodyguards and lit by sparking electronic spotlights. At the current moment, the stage is manned by a troupe of scantily clad slaves, performing an acrobatic display of skill which entail leaping over a pair of whirling buzz-saw blades. One of the slaves, leaping slightly too low, loses his foot at the knee. The spray of blood covers the stage underneath him and spatters the front row of the audience. The screaming performer is dragged off of the stage by his comrades and vanished behind the curtain.

In all corners of the tent, inches of stone contain motorized jaws, which open on demand to reveal a cloaked figure. Lines of tourists request items from these couriers, everything from decadent foods and drinks to drugs and narcotics: any service required can be found in the Nephret Hotel, no matter how obscene or bizarre.

Finally, the loud music and distractions die away from the entrance tent. The now-motionless buzz saws are dragged away from the stage, and a short, stately Ikhuun Minotaur wearing a crown of bone and steel walks onstage. She addresses the crowd of foreign dignitaries with a fanged smile.

<Greetings, friends, and welcome to the newly constructed Nephret Hotel and Casino! I hope you find our planets to be a comfortable and pleasant place to visit. Consider the myriad pleasures available in the hotel at your disposal. Anything that your heart desires can be made available here. I will speak with all of you in turn, but please be patient. I am still waiting for a particularly important guest to arrive.>

[Ivor_The_Mad]

As Kriv piloted his new and less improved ship "Why does no one trust me with things. Just cause I messed up trade deals with Ndoda... and the space monks, twice. *Sigh* Well I hope this goes better. They sill didn't need to send Krex too. He continued grumbling to himself until landing. Once on the planet he looked around at the beautiful white sand and blue water. He had never seen anything so pretty in his life. "Well," he thought to him self, "May be it wont be so bad". He joined the rest of the group and heard the usual collective groan as they realized that he was still their.
Krex:
He stepped out of his ship and lead the precession into the hotel. the first thing he noticed was the blood fest on stage. Not the worst he had seen in his line of work. One of the Minotaurs stepped out on stage and welcomed them.
After the announcement he went up to the minotaur:
Hello, I am Krex here representing the Kronin Empire Thank you for the opportunity to experience such a... different culture?. I am curious about the intentions of this invitation but I assume it will become clear. Oh yes and this is *groan* Kriv he's here too.

[PepperP.]

Droccen Imperium

Kuro had been right as usual, this was no place for a honeymoon. Prince Sukero downed the amber liquid in his shot glass in one gulp and set it back down on the bar, wiping his mouth with the back of his hand. Beside him, Shiri's attention was on the screaming performer. The Guardian seemed concerned and Sukero nudged him as if to prevent him from making a scene.

"We're here to make a token appearance, nothing more. Don't forget our missive." He spoke under his breath and signaled for another drink. Tensions had certainly been high between the Droccen and Rothuun but the concession of the Minotaur people to allow the SoS monastery in the Rothuun territory to be peacefully evacuated had prompted Sukero's presence here. If Rothuun could make an effort in relations, so could Droccen after all.

"I wonder who the important guest is? Perhaps I'll have the chance to ask, seems like we'll be granted an audience anyway." He wasn't sure he wanted one but what better way to ensure the Rothuun were aware of his efforts towards relations than speaking directly with their queen? Sukero and Shiri had come visibly armed despite Sai's protestations of necessity. He won the argument by pointing out that the Rothuun were a martial culture with an ingrained respect for weaponry. Sukero just hoped he wouldn't have cause to use them.

[SquirrelWizard]

The Savior the Universe never knew it needed.

The door to the hotel opened as a Grymlan boldly strode inside with light gilttering in his mulitfaceted rhinestone encrusted visor. He didn't bother wearing a shirt considering that such clothing was often optional except for ceremonial reasons or modesty in some Grymlan's cases, but that would mean covering up his impressive physique. He still wore a plush, furred vest, because he had to show status after all, it was made of genuine fake sharptooth fur, looking real enough to give the rugged sensual appearance while at the same time showing foreknowledge that wearing the actual pelt of a dead endangered predator might come off a bit gauche. Under his oversized platinum belt buckle emblazoned by a planet bisected by a lightning bolt, he wore a pair of sleek, shiny black pants that tucked into the thick duraplastic boots. He exuded confidence with every swaggering swish of his well kept tail, he walked as if he owned the hotel he was entering.

"Barman!" he called out as he approached the bar, hopping up into the seat and fluffing his jacket. "Sparkplug with icyice," He grinned devilishly a he glanced at the other people there and added, "make it doubledouble."

[bc56]

The Syndrome Arrive

The Overlady arrives in style. The sleek bioship Thorn-Coral descends on the hotel surrounded by its swarm of symbiotes. The landing creature sets down and disgorges a procession, headed by Yellow-Coat-Stripes, then the vessel's Shipheart, Blue-Hands-Open, a smaller Syndrome female with bright blue markings on the palms of her four hands. Behind them come a few minor functionaries and a small crowd of servant males. The visceral nature of the acrobatics display does not faze the Overlady, although some of her servants look sick. She stands and waits for the Urthuun to finish, while watching for representatives of the Church of Iteus in the crowd.

[Tychris1]

Slicking back her antenna the Dynast Sorceress flicked her lightning wand experimentally, watching the sparks of magic ripple through the air, and laughed haughtily at the display of arcane power. Those "Masters" of the Eye of the Horizon insisted on her people leaving their small star system behind to understand the grander scope of the world they had to offer and Kaya had more than enough desire to leave. Her attempt at making a "Sand Shrouder" was a bust and her counterfeit Lightning Wands got run out of business shortly before Lord Tybel was decapitated by that giant horrifying feathery beast. Zel-Dara they called her but to many of the Wiizzetrix's and Mages of Dynastinarea she was simply another Sorcerer looking for fealty. Kaya knew a fair bit about the game, the dance of rulers, and the shuffling of thrones. She'd "invented" the wing cleaner rune and after half a year of fighting for it knew that her way of life would change if she didn't get ahead of the curve first. Which is exactly what these Minotaurs seemed capable of. Partaking in a round of drinks Kaya observed the various foreign dignitaries, flashing her own makeshift insignia of the Eye of the Horizon when confused eyes came her way, and commanded the various servers and lackeys like she was back on her homeworld ruling over the magicless fools. This might have been a learning experience for her but she was certain to savor every second of it for what it was worth.

[Lleban]

Kevin DeGrange, 25th knight of the realm, lover of fine foods and SPACE KING's manager rode his hover chair into the courtyard. Jamming to the Minotaur tunes whiles partaking in a greasy bucket of SPACE chicken, Kevin was taken by these aliens modes of entertainment.

Truth be told Kevin needed the break, ever since the library of peace stolen SPACE KING has been near inconsolable. Purges to the left, death games to the right, it took everything Kevin had to keep SPACE KING from trying to flex everyone in a murderous rage. The man muttered to himself between bites of the SPACE chicken drumstick "Beautiful, Beautiful, guess these aliens aren't so different after all.

[Ausar]

Master Marius Thresher Nox brushed his long black hair back, straightened the collar of his blood red navy greatcoat, and rubbed his stubble. The trip had been a long one, as his usual command had been stripped of GLD to equip a faster exploration ship to join the desperate exodus of the expeditionary force. Travelling on one of the first ships to be converted to GLD, he'd arrived after fair discomfort to the grand opening a smidge late. Entering just as the Minotaur walked out, he leaned right to whisper to Officer Jack Ackar Silver of the Dawnguard, who'd accompanied him as a bodyguard of sorts. "Well, that sounds a treat waiting to be et, eh Jack? Keep an eye out, see what you can spot." Marius leant in a little closer and lowered his voice. "See if you can find anyone willing to sell us some metal." Jack nodded, and stepped to the right, eyes towards the Droccen representative and his imposing Guardian. Marius stepped forwards, joining the delegates drifting towards the Minotaur on the stage.

A red cloak and a dream

Marius moved up to face the Minotaur, and tossed a salute into a half-bow, coming up with a wide smile. It is a pleasure to reach the lands of the Rothuun at last. And an honour to be received with such a spectacle. Master Marius, of the Dawnstar Dominion, at your service.

[BladeofObliviom]

One Gelean ship passed the threshold to land on the runway, a personal yacht-saucer branded 'Lunatic Blue'. A jumpsuit-clad figure skipped down the landing ramp as soon as it was open, grabbing onto the piston as she descended to swing off the side, only a little disoriented by her return to normal gravity. Now that she was up and about, she happily did a few squats and stretches to get her muscles back into position.

"Yes! Taurina I! Planet Ikhal! One more to cross off my bucket list!" She tapped her hands together, giddy with excitement. "Luna, raise landing ramp. Don't let any strangers in without the code!"

She checked to make sure her holdout arc pistol was still concealed in the side of her jumpsuit, her cable was properly stored, and her emergency antibiotics and immune boosters were still good. After confirming everything was a-ok, she entered the party, smiling and waving happily at the guards on the way in. Her smile faltered just slightly at the sight of blood and a maimed slave being unceremoniously carried away, but she put it out of her mind to focus on the party.

Spoiler

Show

Sarah of Sen Arcology, Gelean Tourist. Fancies herself an explorer, but she's a tourist.

[Gaius Hermicus]

Kronin: <Hello, Lieutenant Krex. I am glad that you can visit our homeland. I have heard good things about the martial skill of the Kronin: you would be an excellent ally for a warrior culture like my own. I hope that there will be peaceful discourse between our nations.>

Droccen: A heavyset, red-furred Minotaur wanders away from the stage and steps up to Sukero. In appearance and demeanor he closely resembles the late Thrikar Fleshgorger, but is younger and more athletic. <Hello, Droccaut. I am Aneb Two-Gun, king of Thurtuun and son of Urthuun Thrikar. Am I correct in presuming that you are sheltering the Sisterhood refugees which we forced out of Baryshev?>

Grymlans: A pale-skinned Thurtuun plops himself down on the barstool next to the dashing Grymlan. <Drinks are on me, bartender. I’ll have the same as him.> Tossing back the liquor, he introduces himself as Virtash Splitskull and wishes good luck to the Grymlan diplomat.

Saw star Dominion: <Greetings, Master Marius. I must confess, I know little about the Dawnstar Dominion. Tell me about your country, which I’m sure is a mighty power in the galaxy.>

[moossabi]

After some slight delay, a Church ship comes into Rothuun airspace and dispatches a small shuttle to land near the hotel. It isn't a particularly flashy landing, just simply lowering into a designated space. The party that emerges, however, is much more remarkable. Any veterans of the Simulacrum would recognize Pontiff Altea in the center of a ring of Church Enforcers and flanked on either side by Deacons with record-keeping materials. The party strolls past many of the attractions authoritatively, much of the crowd parting at their passage.

They arrive without a word at the back of the crowd of assembled delegates in the midst of the crowned minotaur's speech, the Pontiff casually gazing in the general direction of the stage and smiling calmly.

Spoiler: Visual Reference for Altea (big image)

Show

This but with more pale/rubbery skin

[Gaius Hermicus]

The Urthuun meets with the Pontiff and the Overlady (Private Conference):

Walking off of the stage, the Urthuun taps the Overlady and Pontiff Altea on the shoulders, leading them surreptitiously into a hidden side chamber. Their discussions will be secure from all but those specifically eavesdropping on them.

<Hello, Pontiff. Greetings, Overlady. We have much to discuss. We are close neighbors, as close to each other as possible. I have no love for the Church of Rust which has forced entry into our country, and the Church of Iteus seems like it could certainly be a viable alternative. I would like to propose an alliance with each of you, which would benefit all of us greatly.>

[bc56]

Secret Leader Meeting of Secrecy

"I am agreeable to an alliance. You have briefly contacted me about it already. I wish to share economic and research benefits between us." The Overlady is the first to respond.

[PepperP.]

Droccen: A heavyset, red-furred Minotaur wanders away from the stage and steps up to Sukero. In appearance and demeanor he closely resembles the late Thrikar Fleshgorger, but is younger and more athletic. <Hello, Droccaut. I am Aneb Two-Gun, king of Thurtuun and son of Urthuun Thrikar. Am I correct in presuming that you are sheltering the Sisterhood refugees which we forced out of Baryshev?>

Prince Sukero dipped his head in respect to the Minotaur's superior rank though it was not a subservient bow.

"Greetings, Aneb Two-Gun. The displaced Sisters of the Morning Bloom have found refuge in Rocthurhi territory." He paused to take another long drink from his glass.

"Do we have you to credit with the permission to evacuate the abby without bloodshed?"

[Mary_Sue]

Eternal Assembly of Alysia

Perhaps it was her successful subdual of Veleron that had given Eladia a taste for savagery. Or perhaps it had been there the whole time and she merely sought the company of people with similar predilections. They were certainly sparse on Alysia and wouldn't be encouraged in any case. Faintly, even across the trackless expanse of space could she feel Alysia's disapproval tugging at her mind. A mere ten years were left of her tenure as Prime Minister. She focused and closed herself off to Alysia's psychic pryings. Even Prime Ministers deserved vacations, right? That's what she told herself as she signaled for the barkeep. She was not donned in her usual Alysian uniform but her nationality was unmistakable, if not her identity. The Minotaur's speech so shortly after the bloodshed gave her pause, but she also found it thrilling in a perverse way. She was glad she had come armed though had no reason to believe she was in any danger. Perhaps that was naive of her.

@Tychris1

Eladia glanced at the insectoid alien perched next to her at the bar.

"I'm Eladia of Alysia." She decided to make small talk.

"From where do you hail?"

[LapisCattis]

A medium sized Nemikhomo lands on the runway, immediately prompting seven Ndoda children to jump out, screaming in excitement. Hastily, a disheveled looking adult male leaps out to herd them and bring the gaggle to a halt. A much more composed female follows, picking up a stray hatchling and bringing it back to the horde.

The male, bronze-scaled with light orange eyes and a bright green headlap, carries a large woven bag on his back and another slung over one shoulder. The female, with mottled green and brown scales and light gray eyes, has a small leather satchel slung over a shoulder. Both adults are wearing clothes – leather shorts covering from just above the hips to just above mid-thigh and leather vests making a small collar at the lower neck and reaching down to a spread-hands width above the shorts, both studded with gems and beads of bone and metal around the edges and in geometric patterns. The vests are laced together in the front with bright red rope, capped at the ends in iridium. The hatchlings wear no clothing, but red and gold robes peek out of the male’s bag on his back. Just large enough to cover a hatching and more of a full onesie than anything – sleeves for arms and legs, a hood, even a large pocket at the back for a tail.

“Children, we agreed on no running! This is a fun educational trip and the chance for us to meet other cultures and species, not the chance for me to find out what spices a fried hatchling goes best with when you make a Rothuun angry.” Aleqi, the male, chides, slapping a hatchling lightly on the head when his attention is diverted from his teacher to the screaming slave.

“Have fun with the hatchlings, Aleqi! Better you than me.” Nakir, his mate, calls over her shoulder as she heads to the doors. While she has been tasked with representing her Umkhonto, her mate will have the wonderful task of playing babysitter. Thank goodness she became a pilot instead of a teacher.

“Aleqi, what is that thing?”One hatchling, the little male that he’d slapped, points to where the slave had been dragged away, breaking Aleqi out of his mental debate on whether to cry or run away from the hatchling horde.

“Aleqi, I’m hungry”
“Aleqi, are we there yet?”
“Aleqi, was that a pet?”
“Aleqi, I wanna see a Mini-taur!”
“Aleqi, are Mini-taurs just small Taurs?”

Wrestling a sniffling hatchling into a robe (the last thing he needs right now is a sick hatchling), all Aleqi can think is that this would be a long trip.

[Ausar]

The Preening Wolf

Marius nodded languidly. "The 'Dominion is indeed a power, but I would hesitate to call it a great one. We are a people united, but recently lessened. Our first great foray into the unknown was, to put it mildly, unsuccessful, and our second attempt is far from the ideal expedition I had hoped it would be." Marius lifted his chin and looks directly at the minotaur. "But we will rise, have no doubt about it. The 'Dominion is stronger under my guidance than it has ever been. We have nothing but hope for our continued good relations with the Rothuun. Tell me of your people; how can the 'Dominion aid you?"

[moossabi]

The Urthuun meets with the Pontiff and the Overlady (Private Conference):

Walking off of the stage, the Urthuun taps the Overlady and Pontiff Altea on the shoulders, leading them surreptitiously into a hidden side chamber. Their discussions will be secure from all but those specifically eavesdropping on them.

<Hello, Pontiff. Greetings, Overlady. We have much to discuss. We are close neighbors, as close to each other as possible. I have no love for the Church of Rust which has forced entry into our country, and the Church of Iteus seems like it could certainly be a viable alternative. I would like to propose an alliance with each of you, which would benefit all of us greatly.>

Secret Leader Meeting of Secrecy

"I am agreeable to an alliance. You have briefly contacted me about it already. I wish to share economic and research benefits between us." The Overlady is the first to respond.

The hasty departure from the crowd amuses Altea, though she does little to properly show it. "I see nothing but gain as a result of this arrangement. Members of my church have already established themselves in your territorial cores, yet I have been remiss in my duties to properly discuss and coordinate affairs with both of you. Closer cooperation is a must."

Meanwhile the Enforcers and Deacons take up guard positions outside the meeting place, supplementing whatever the Urthuun had put in place to begin with.

[Ivor_The_Mad]

Kriv walked over to the bar. Kronin can't actually drink and their bodies can't actually process liquids but they can take it in and release the liquid as steam from their bodies. He sat down not even noticing the the interesting aliens to his left or right. He ordered the strongest liquor he could get and began to drink.


Krex was standing in the corner with one of his guards watching the groups arrive. He had his hand on his holster. He didn't know why but he had a bad feeling about something. He still wasn't sure what the ultimate goal of this event was but he assumed it had to do with the Rothuun wanting to get some new allies. From what he had heard things weren't going well with them at this moment. "They would certainly be strong allies" he mused to himself. "assuming they get past these difficulties"

[omnitricks]

At first the Melfynians had thought to ignore the invitation sent to them thinking it was some form of mistake. Their relationship with the Rothuun wasn't good at all. Overlooking the conflict in their first contact as either fun and games at best and a misunderstanding at worst, the attempt on Kimdt during the coronation ceremony in Droccen was completely unacceptable. If not for the heroic Lyraens and the fact the Melfynians thought was most important, that the event was being broadcast, surely the Melfynians would have lost one of their people's most important representatives.

In fact there was quite a bit of outrage at that public attempt that sending someone to the opening of the hotel was going to be troublesome. Some of the more hot blooded aquatics may even try to strike a blow against the minotaurs. The only reason anyone was sent at all was because the Melfynians believed if it was public like the Droccen coronation, the Rothuun wouldn't make another obvious attempt but still, they ended up sending someone no one would miss too much although he still had an official sounding title to add some legitimacy.

A good thing as Ristoll of the Qwerty cluster was the sort to enjoy such a decadent display. Like one of those Guardian or OwO videos, Ristoll came to impress not in one of those Melfynian fishbowls but colorful clothing the humanoids would wear. A shirt with patterns of corals and bright green pants which just about cut off at the stubs. Both points which are suggested to be arms by the sleeves of the shirt carrying along two suitcases as... the starfish flopped around on the floor. Some of those he passed could even be heard asking if that thing on top of the star was a hat.

Obviously not a diplomat. He wouldn't even qualify a Patrick!

But it was neither an issue for him or the rest of the other fun loving Melfynians with him as he asked rather loudly in an obviously exaggerated accent, "Roit. So what do them Rothuuuuun do fer fun round these 'ere parts?"

[Gaius Hermicus]

The Private Conference: <Well, I am certainly glad to see such interest in my proposed alliance. If you’ll excuse me for a moment, I shall draft a resolution and we shall all sign it.>

Marius: <How can you aid us? That depends on a variety of factors. It appears that you are too far away to provide any normal form of assistance, but we have enemies in the distance. Tell me, what are your thoughts on the core and the Sisterhood of Silence?>

Sukero: A bullish snort comes from Aneb’s mouth. His eyes glint with barely concealed menace. This is a dangerous man. <No. I had nothing to do with that decision. I have been working towards one goal: the eradication of all our enemies, to avenge my father’s death. The Sisterhood is the most significant enemy at this time, and I consider those who side with them enemies as well. Consider yourself warned.> Aneb walks away from the Droccen, never turning back.

Kevin: Leaving behind the Droccen, Aneb takes a seat next to Kevin DeGrange and snatches a SPACEchicken leg from his bucket. Devouring it in two bites, he hurls the bone aside and spits a piece of gristle out onto the table. Only then does he address the Knight sitting next to him. <You’d be a Knight Vacio, then?>

The Gelean Tourist: Grazakh Peelskin, a hairless Phakhuun covered in scabs and surrounded by a foul stench, was positioned in a corner of the tent, as far away from the important dignitaries as possible. As the Gelean tourist entered the Nephret Hotel, however, he stalks over to meet her. <You are the Gelean emissary? Excellent. Come with me; we have much to discuss.> He tries to lead her into a side room.

[SquirrelWizard]

Flash vs the Minotaur

Flash grinned as he raised his drink in response to Virtash Splitskull, and said in a good natured way, "Manythanks, though you may futureregret. I'm Flash Starshine, Coordinator between Fluffyshine and Farseekers. I thinkguess you foreknow that. So what busytalk do you wantneed?"

[Ausar]

Building/Burning Bridges

Marius furrowed his brow. "My predecessor was very amenable to the One and the Sisters that serve it - and he respected their word on the core." Marius shrugged. "But he is dead, and I now lead. The Sisters and the One are our opponents. The 'Dominion follows the Way, it defines our lives, gives purpose and meaning to everything we do. This One, these Sisters... Nothing but falsehood do they spread. Nothing but danger do they bring. If they claim to safeguard us from some great evil within the core, I have no doubt they merely shield some aspect of the One that gives them some form of power, something they wish to prevent the galaxy from seeing out of spite and selfish greed. We ought find out for ourselves. With the combined might of all brave enough to resist the malicious tendrils of the One, we have nothing to fear." Marius cocked an eyebrow at the Minotaur. "And your own people? Are you and they aligned in thought regarding the Sisters?"

[Gaius Hermicus]

Flash: Virtash grins broadly. <Right down to business, eh? I like that. Well, since you asked so nicely, I’d like to talk to you about the Core. I’m as interested in penetrating it as anybody, but I’m more than a little nervous about my colleagues’ hostility towards the Sisterhood of Silence. In my opinion, there’s no need to make enemies at this critical time. I’d like to talk to you, and perhaps the Eye of the Horizon as well, about persuading the Sisterhood to allow us limited exploration rights into the core. Would you be amenable to this idea?>

Marius: <I wholeheartedly agree with your thoughts on the Sisterhood. They clearly have something to hide, and I will not permit them to spread their propaganda to our regions. Already we have driven them out of their base in Baryshev, and we plan to enter the core with a matter of years. I’m glad to hear that we are on the same page about this.>

Aleqi: A number of Minotaurs, their curiosity aroused by the crowd of hatchlings entering the tent, walk over to Aleqi’s contingent. They are led by a kind-faced Ikhuun waiter holding a tray of discarded food and utensils. Introducing himself as Phaakar Snatchgrab, he inspects one of the hatchlings closely, prodding it with one massive finger to see whether Aleqi raises a complaint.

[Tychris1]

Eternal Assembly of Alysia

@Tychris1

Eladia glanced at the insectoid alien perched next to her at the bar.

"I'm Eladia of Alysia." She decided to make small talk.

"From where do you hail?"

Kaya had been irked by the cup design of the drinks given to her. Her mandibles were insufficiently sized for drinking out of them and these artificial proboscides were clearly designed by some inferior mind in a fashion to strangle or otherwise choke her. After several unsuccessful attempts she instead opted to just produce her lightning wand, ever trustful as always, and strike the liquid repeatedly until it turned to gas and wafted into her waiting lungs. Sitting in the heady strange aromas she almost didn't notice the strange women beside her but Kaya was no normal Sorceress. Bedecked in colorful blue runes of protection painted along her red shell with black spots she was a shorter member of her race on average. Her bulky shell and wings were patterned with occasional white spots most predominately on her armored head and turning to face the graceful Eladia produced a symmetrical rorscharch like blot.

"I am Kaya of Dynastinarea. You have probably not heard of my planet, we only recently came under the dominion of the Eye of the Horizon, and learned how large the galaxy actually is. Thrilling, isn't it? A few years ago I had thought this wand was the greatest invention I would ever lay eyes on but now I own my very own Pyramid with some "Gee-El-Dee" as the workers put it. I can't say I know where Alysia is. I hope the trip was comfortable." She zapped another cup and huffed a dark pink cloud.

[SquirrelWizard]

Flash and the Minotaur

One of the benefits to Flash's gaudy visor was that nobody could tell when he quirked an eyebrow. "Ah, I seehear what you're saying. I would wantneed to for friendlytalks with the Sisters, but I thinkknow they are hardwelded in their ways. Better to friendlytalk if possible while stealthymove with other hand."

He took a pull on his drink, "We should be hiddensafe about any sneakhidden action in the centercore. Not that the Sisterhood seehears, rather it is a maxdanger place."

Bugging the Bug

"Oh, that's shiny." Flash said as he caught the sight of Kaya huffing her drink, or rather the use of her wand to produce the steam. "Though sneaksteals the funfun from drinking, no-no?" With a wide grin under his rhinestone visor he added, "I'm Flash Starshine of the Combine, and I've noseen people like you, or shinytech like that. Betcha got some shiny tales about where you're from." he noticed that Eladia had been speaking to Kaya so he leaned against the bar and gave her a confident wave so she wouldn't feel left out.

[Gaius Hermicus]

Flash: <Hm, perhaps you are right. The Sisterhood might not be willing to open up the core. But then again, their organization is changing rapidly, and they might be willling to negotiate with us at some point in the future. I think it is at least worth a try.>

Ristoll: A very familiar Minotaur, tall and muscular catches the eye of the approaching Melfynian. He can be recognized (due to footage of the Coronation of Sai) as Zurtak, the man who tried to assault Kimdt a few years ago. Zurtak strides over to Ristoll with a cruel glint in his eye. <We have a lot of hobbies round these parts.For instance, sometimes we snap ugly starfishes in two. I was always good at that game. Wonder if I’ve still got the skills?>

[RandoMan]

After nearly an hour the sight the Stranger had been waiting for appeared far above in the sky. First it was a small dark blip amid the cloudless atmosphere but quicker and quicker it seemed to grow as a massive ship made itself visible to all in this hemisphere of the planet. A massive black dreadnought loaded to the brim with weapons protected by thick plating and marked with massive intricate red and black symbols of An'null. The Stranger withdrew a small metallic device from his belt flipping it into an open position to the welcoming ping of an established connection. He held the communicator up to eye level gazing into it like a compact mirror as it began to receive and transmit through the array embedded in the ship above.

A booming electronically masked voice spoke out echoing across the planet's surface thanks to numerous small speaker drones deployed by the arriving ship.

"Denizens of Axiom, this is the Shadow Admiral! Welcome the first of many of my Commodores coming to aid the interior in its inevitable quest towards oblivion! To our minotaur partners we extend our thanks for allowing our organization to aid your government in its goals. To our silent partners we extend our equal thanks to you. To those yet uninitiated in our work we invite you to experience it firsthand. The age of cowering at the edges of space is over! Now begins the age of the Eradicators, the age of the end!"

The voice changed, quieter and it seemed the shrouded figure was now speaking.

"I am Commodore Voight, find me at Nephret Hotel on Taurina I or speak to one of my representatives at the Houser Casino and we can do business."

A rumbling outside notified the patrons of some massive arrival and those who rushed outside would see the massive ship which had appeared in the sky aboveonly moments ago had disgorged a fleet of Eradicator fighters which now swarmed the outskirts of the hotel. A few were already landed and scrappy looking raiders were emerging from their hulls flooding over the grounds with an eerie familiarity. A final ship landed and from it marched the so-named Commodore Voight whose presence had just been announced in far away Duenem space and whose introduction was now playing out across the holoscreens of the hotel. The Commodore strode with purpose towards the entrance opening his arms to embrace Urthuun Kzarna Harpooner.

[moossabi]

Spoiler: Very long draft time

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The Private Conference: <Well, I am certainly glad to see such interest in my proposed alliance. If you’ll excuse me for a moment, I shall draft a resolution and we shall all sign it.>

Much longer than a moment has passed, and the echos in Altea's brain begin to become restless. "Perhaps we may discuss terms aloud as they are recorded, for better-"

Spoiler: Shadow man bad

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After nearly an hour the sight the Stranger had been waiting for appeared far above in the sky. First it was a small dark blip amid the cloudless atmosphere but quicker and quicker it seemed to grow as a massive ship made itself visible to all in this hemisphere of the planet. A massive black dreadnought loaded to the brim with weapons protected by thick plating and marked with massive intricate red and black symbols of An'null. The Stranger withdrew a small metallic device from his belt flipping it into an open position to the welcoming ping of an established connection. He held the communicator up to eye level gazing into it like a compact mirror as it began to receive and transmit through the array embedded in the ship above.

A booming electronically masked voice spoke out echoing across the planet's surface thanks to numerous small speaker drones deployed by the arriving ship.

"Denizens of Axiom, this is the Shadow Admiral! Welcome the first of many of my Commodores coming to aid the interior in its inevitable quest towards oblivion! To our minotaur partners we extend our thanks for allowing our organization to aid your government in its goals. To our silent partners we extend our equal thanks to you. To those yet uninitiated in our work we invite you to experience it firsthand. The age of cowering at the edges of space is over! Now begins the age of the Eradicators, the age of the end!"

The voice changed, quieter and it seemed the shrouded figure was now speaking.

"I am Commodore Voight, find me at Nephret Hotel on Taurina I or speak to one of my representatives at the Houser Casino and we can do business."

A rumbling outside notified the patrons of some massive arrival and those who rushed outside would see the massive ship which had appeared in the sky aboveonly moments ago had disgorged a fleet of Eradicator fighters which now swarmed the outskirts of the hotel. A few were already landed and scrappy looking raiders were emerging from their hulls flooding over the grounds with an eerie familiarity. A final ship landed and from it marched the so-named Commodore Voight whose presence had just been announced in far away Duenem space and whose introduction was now playing out across the holoscreens of the hotel. The Commodore strode with purpose towards the entrance opening his arms to embrace Urthuun Kzarna Harpooner.

The bombastic announcement completely overtakes the words of the Pontiff even in the private environment, much to her irritation. "If I might ask, friend, were the other arrivals this... pretentious?"

[omnitricks]

Spoiler: Rothuun

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Ristoll: A very familiar Minotaur, tall and muscular catches the eye of the approaching Melfynian. He can be recognized (due to footage of the Coronation of Sai) as Zurtak, the man who tried to assault Kimdt a few years ago. Zurtak strides over to Ristoll with a cruel glint in his eye. <We have a lot of hobbies round these parts.For instance, sometimes we snap ugly starfishes in two. I was always good at that game. Wonder if I’ve still got the skills?>

Fortunately (or unfortunately depending on how one views it) Zurtak was indistinguishable from all the other Rothuun Minotaurs just as how all Grymlans, Syndromes, Lyraens and other aliens did- save a few really noteworthy exceptions. The Harkan had no illusions it wasn't any different from how the other aliens viewed the Melfynians either. He looked towards the Minotaur without a hint of recognition and though his pause may be considered because of his fear, that was obviously not the case when he answered with a "you'll be doing us all a favor if you have the time for a trip to Melfynus for that. If you can cull all the uglies, then only the pretty stars will be left then we-... ah barnacles. I don't have the years to wait for that do I?"

And then with the laughter of other Harkans in the background, Ristoll got a little closer to Zurtak to add "of course, you didn't hear that from me. I still need the uglies vote if I ever want to be the boss. If you know what I mean."

Which speaking of, "hey, do you know where your boss is? Or the host of this shindig? They'll know a fun way to kill time I bet! Melfynians always on the look out to get ahead if they get the chance ya know?"

---

Spoiler: Watchers

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Kaya had been irked by the cup design of the drinks given to her. Her mandibles were insufficiently sized for drinking out of them and these artificial proboscides were clearly designed by some inferior mind in a fashion to strangle or otherwise choke her. After several unsuccessful attempts she instead opted to just produce her lightning wand, ever trustful as always, and strike the liquid repeatedly until it turned to gas and wafted into her waiting lungs. Sitting in the heady strange aromas she almost didn't notice the strange women beside her but Kaya was no normal Sorceress. Bedecked in colorful blue runes of protection painted along her red shell with black spots she was a shorter member of her race on average. Her bulky shell and wings were patterned with occasional white spots most predominately on her armored head and turning to face the graceful Eladia produced a symmetrical rorscharch like blot.

"I am Kaya of Dynastinarea. You have probably not heard of my planet, we only recently came under the dominion of the Eye of the Horizon, and learned how large the galaxy actually is. Thrilling, isn't it? A few years ago I had thought this wand was the greatest invention I would ever lay eyes on but now I own my very own Pyramid with some "Gee-El-Dee" as the workers put it. I can't say I know where Alysia is. I hope the trip was comfortable." She zapped another cup and huffed a dark pink cloud.

Ristoll watched and stared at the insectoid all wider eyed until it was quite obvious most of the liquid was gone. Without touching it too! A supervillain like in one of those cartoons might've wanted it for a doomsday weapon (as far as a doomsday device may qualify for in Melfynus) but he? He was all excited and barely keeping his cool he had to say as he flopped on the floor to get the words out, "that was amazing! How did you do it? The water? They probably would be afraid of you back home if you can do it on a wider scale but what's the worst that could happen?

---

Spoiler: Dawnstar

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Master Marius Thresher Nox brushed his long black hair back, straightened the collar of his blood red navy greatcoat, and rubbed his stubble. The trip had been a long one, as his usual command had been stripped of GLD to equip a faster exploration ship to join the desperate exodus of the expeditionary force. Travelling on one of the first ships to be converted to GLD, he'd arrived after fair discomfort to the grand opening a smidge late. Entering just as the Minotaur walked out, he leaned right to whisper to Officer Jack Ackar Silver of the Dawnguard, who'd accompanied him as a bodyguard of sorts. "Well, that sounds a treat waiting to be et, eh Jack? Keep an eye out, see what you can spot." Marius leant in a little closer and lowered his voice. "See if you can find anyone willing to sell us some metal." Jack nodded, and stepped to the right, eyes towards the Droccen representative and his imposing Guardian. Marius stepped forwards, joining the delegates drifting towards the Minotaur on the stage.

When he first spotted the man, he thought nothing about him eyeballing the Droccen representative. But after a while, it seemed a little odd that the man didn't even attempt to approach prince. After all in a sense, those Droccens are kinda celebrities thanks to that weird . Eventually Ristoll rolled over on his suitcase and asked "Are you a fan of the prince or something? Need some help to get introduced for an autograph?