[Randallw]

The Council was going about its business. At the moment it was discussing the latest reports from the border.
“Item one” spoke Dokeo “We have accepted the Manticores’ proposal of trade, but they have occupied a planet in our space.”
“I still can’t believe they’re human” spoke one councillor.
“Human they may appear, but they are not of our race and so should not be accorded any greater leeway than other races we have met” replied Dokeo.
“We must tread gently” spoke up Councillor Dias “Instead of leaping to conclusions of invasion as the Auxiliaries might, we should handle the incursion diplomatically”. Comments of agreement rang out around the chamber, but there were also opposing comments.
“You just have to look at the system to see we have colonised it” cried Logos “Despite warnings or not, the fact that they go ahead and colonise our systems is a threat to our security”
“I propose we vote” said Geros “those willing to voice our concerns to the Manticore?” he asked.
Many of the councillors present indicated their agreement.
“those wanting swift action?”. Again many agreements, but this time fewer.
“Agreed then, We shall warn the Manticore not to continue their incursions”
“Item two” continued Dokeo “ the machine empire on the border. Indications are they claim a system between our worlds”
“Have we any colonies in the system?” queried Geros.
“No, there were plans to occupy the system but they had not yet been carried out”
“I say we allow it, but from the map any further and they will be interrupting our passage to the border” said Dias. A unanimous agreement was indicated.
“Item three. As the previous items indicate we are in a precarious position many other empires are closing in on our borders. We require a coordinated plan to handle security issues” Dokeo said.
“I have a view on this issue” spoke up Logos.
“Yes, councillor”
“I suggest a radical departure from normal organisation. Until this time we have existed in order, with the wisdom of the council, we have run the State. Other races though are a potential threat I suggest we have a member of the Auxiliaries sit in on such meetings as this one, to gain us a viewpoint on defense against the outside powers”
“Preposterous” exclaimed Gigia “To have an auxiliary make state decisions goes against all the State stands for. Next you will want tradesmen saying what is best”
“Relax sister” reassured Logos “ I do not mean for decision making to be placed in the hands of the Auxiliaries. I merely suggest we have a military spokesman to brief us on the situations on the border where there may be a threat”
“hmph” replied Gigia.
“All those who agree?” asked Geros. Indicator lights lit up. “And those against?”.
When the votes had been tallied the proposal passed with a slim majority.
“It is agreed then” declared Dokeo “ As of the next situation meeting we shall have a military viewpoint present. As all points have been covered, are there any further points to be put forward”
no member spoke up. “Then I call this meeting over. For the Good of the State”
“For the Good of the State “ chimed the other members.