History of the Galaxy, part 1-Story Thread

[Ragnarok]

What's the latest with the story? Or is anyone playing it? Or are you in the process of writing the next sections? Just thought I'd ask...

[Jmenschenfresser]

Yes, sorry for the delay, and thanks for the concern and interest. I've had guests for the Last 10 days. They just left, and after spending Sunday relaxing, I am ready to get back into it.

Might see a new post today or tomorrow. We're about 10 turns from Last week's post, which is right on target.

[geoschmo]

Temporal World - "Happiness through history" is proud to present

JOURNEY TO YESTERDAY Episode 4: Seeds of Empire

Year 2408.3

...

Historians have argued for centuries at which point the Sallegan Republic became the Sallegan Empire. The easy answer is with the coronation of Emperor Philosus. However, many feel the seeds of that empire were planted years before.

Here we are late in the first decade of the 25 century. The Sallegans are still ruled by a republic, however the Senates power and influence has steadily declined since the Hive war. The admiralty still professes to show allegiance to the elected representatives, but that allegiance is often a rubber stamp by the Senators on whatever Admiral Grandow feels is in the "best interests" of the republic.

The economy was showing signs of strain. The years of military buildup as a result of the Xi'Chung war and the current cold war with the Sergetti were starting to eat into the mineral reserves. Already close to half of the construction facilities in the Republic were idle. No new ship orders were being placed, and many current orders had been put on hold, or canceled altogether. The massive research network was consistently putting out new discoveries, and improving old technologies, but the money simply wasn't available to put these technologies to use. One at a time, these indicators were not that troubling, but altogether they showed a downward trend that could quickly become a very bad situation for the republic.

The population was generally happy, but so far the majority of them were still getting a paycheck. However if unemployment continued to rise, morale would plummet. That could be disastrous as long as the political situation with the Sergetti remained tenuous. At his critical juncture in Sallegan history several decisions were made that would have far reaching implications in this section of the quadrant for generations to come.

The economic recession could not be ignored. However, the presence of the Sergetti and the other major powers so close by would not allow ships to be scrapped or mothballed. The memories of the Hive war were too painful, and too recent to allow that. The strength of the navy had to be maintained.

A three phase plan was decided upon. The first phase was a simple one. The Ashadra system to the south of Narcisston was young system of planetary debris orbiting a newly formed star. The system was so early in it's life span that the dust and asteroids had not yet joined to form planets suitable for colonization. However, these asteroids were ideal for remote mining operations. Ships were to be designed and built to get at these precious raw materials.

Secondly, information was received from our allies the Fazrah of a race that evolved on Gas Giant worlds. This race apparently lived on the far side of Sergetti space. It was believed they may hold the key to the great mystery of the ancient cities deep in the Narciston Gas Giants. The Sallegans did not want to only have contact with this race through the Fazrah, and thus have to share the existence of these cites with their allies. A decision was made to build a fleet of long range vessels capable of surviving the trip across hostile Sergetti space to make contact with this race. If we could develop the technology to colonize these worlds, it would allow for a wave of internal expansion that would take much of the pressure off the economy.

The Last, and most dangerous phase of the plan had to do with the Zynars. There existed a single uncolonized oxygen world in the Cephredi system. When the original treaty had been signed with the Zynars, it had been the request of the Sallegans to have rights to colonizing that planet. So far the Zynars had not agreed. The treaty had been signed, but it had been mutually agreed to leave the issue of Cephredi VII open. So far neither race had colonized it.

The Zynars were now insisting as a pre-condition for colonization that the Sallegnas submit to their long standing demand that they break their treaty with the Norak. This was a considered a bad idea under normal circumstances, but with the current economic situation it was unthinkable. The lost income alone would throw the fragile Sallegan economy into a full blown depression.

War was not desired by any measure, but it was decided that a new policy of "carrot and stick" diplomacy would be implemented with the Zynars. The Admiralty reasoned that the Zynars needed the Sallegans more than the Sallegans needed them, and thus justified for themselves the aggressive actions to come. The fear of the Sallegan navy was one of the main reasons the Zynars had not been overrun as of yet by one of the other major races. A colony ship was dispatched to Cephredi VII, and a sizeable escort fleet was sent along with it, just to make sure the Zynars didn't get any ideas. In return the Sallegnas would offer a stronger "defense" presence in Cephredi to "protect against outside aggression."

It wasn't quite annexation of Zynar space, but it was pretty close. It was unclear at the time how the Zynars would react to the larger Sallegan military garrison. It was not realized at the time, but historians have considered it the first overtly offensive move the Sallegan government had made since encountering the other races.

...

[TerranC]

From a technical historic standard:

That's invasion and annexation. Rightfully the Sallegans should be repulsed from Zynar space and maybe lose a few worlds by it...

But this is a story so keep them Invasions coming

[geoschmo]

Citizen TerranC,

We appreciate the interest you have taken in the current state of Sallegan-Zyanrian relations. We can understand your concerns, and those of the Zynarian government. However we feel a subjective view of the situation will result in an acceptance of our position.

A valid argument could be made that the safety and security of the Zynarian people themselves would demand an increased military presence in this sector. The Zynars have been thus far relativly unable to secure their own space to outside incursions. Even the Norak weren't actually repulsed as much as they lost interest in the sector.

Despite our inability thus far to cement a peace treaty between the Zynars and Norak, we do take some measure of credit for bringing the hostilities between them to an end.

Also it is the official position of the Sallegan republic at this time that the Zynars are in breach of their treaty by not inviting the Sallegnas to colonize this world. They have benefitted greatly from our friendship over the years. We are merely asking for fair value in return. We will not interfere in the internal affairs of any sovereign government.

Finally the planet is not suitable for Zynarian psyiology. At the current level of trade the Zynars would actually receive more benefit from the planet by allowing us to colonize it.

It is a win-win for both our peoples. No doubt they will come to this realization soon as well.

If you still have reservations, we invite you to take a visit to the republic and see the wonderful conditions and freedoms that all citizens enjoy. You may make an application for a visa at your local Sallegan consular office in the capital city of your homeworld.

Sincerely,

Vice-Admiral Barnwell
Chief Secretary
Office of Public Affairs
Sallegan Republic

[ 09 April 2002: Message edited by: geoschmo ]

[Jmenschenfresser]

2408.2
After having spent nearly two years living among the Xi'Chung, it is nice to again be aboard a ship filled to the plating with Norak. After a short stop over in Arklite, on the first planet that is now home to some 25 million Xi, Tallik and I hooked up with a larger population transport ship on it's way to Olontra. The Amon'krie, after much pressure and convincing, are again allied with us in a Trade and Research Treaty. The government feels it is once again safe to send population and civilians to the system. Tallik and I now find ourselves living with the former citizens of Arklite I. The only organized transportation of civilians from Arklite, in order to make room for the Xi, was decided to have as its final destination, Olontra. The transportation to Olontra would be cost free for all who opted to take the chance. Free land and developments have also been promised in Olontra; however, those who wish to take the second route can sell their land to government for a reduced price and then make their own way else where. Richer families have generally decided upon this option as most of them have homes on several worlds. The planet in Olontra is large and has a small population. The 300 or so million coming from Arklite will hardly dent the free land to be had there.

Tallik and I had two weeks leave on Arklite before the ship to Olontra left. After nearly two years on constant space travel, I was grateful for the chance to see sky...even if it was the strange magenta glow of the methane in the air. The small domed facilites I assume will be kept for the accomedation of Norak who visit for whatever purpose, but the Xi have already moved out into the wildernesses of Arklite. I've talked to several who've chosen this planet, and they say, that although it is hotter than their homeworld, it is quite pleasant. Many of those who disliked the chill of the homeworld enjoy this warm paradise. The rest of the Xi are headed for two planets deep in the inner systems of Norak space. May they find rest and a home proper. She who knows the state of all creatures finds the worms of Xiban I leaves in which to sleep...and so shall the Xi find a place of comfort.

A colony ship we passed back in Organtrix is being refitted for rock colonization. The aim is to send it deep within Sergetti territory to establish deep space contacts with other races. The Florida sent out a year ago recently returned to Organtrix with depressing news. The systems it explored were filled with nothing but nebula. This same Florida is being refitted with the latest stellar harnessing technology, which essentially will allow it to travel forever without having to resupply.

2408.4
The deep space fleet has left dock and is approaching the edges of the Organtrix system. The refitted colony ship is headed for a large rock planet several systems away...in the heart of the Sergetti system. Meanwhile, the Florida explorer has left Organtrix on an exploration mission to the southern part of the galaxy.

I am now sitting under a strange looking tree on Olontra II. I've visited the solemn memorials to the millions lost in the Amon'krie attack. The citizens of Olontra II have little use for their neighbors. The Amon'krie come here to trade, but all transactions take place in remote hangers and cargo storage facilities. However, the new population having arrived with Tallik and I are less likely to have hostile dispositions, and perhaps the new faces will dilute the old boiling blood...this is not to say, their anger is misled. Perhaps through Olontra II new ties can be formed. The Amon'krie have still outlawed all teachings of the Norakian faith on their worlds. The Almighty never said that all would be won with ease, and a large portion of the counsel thinks both the Amon'krie and the Zynarra should face the wrath of the Almighty's chosen people. They have classified them as irredeemable. She who separates the earth from the sky holds them in balance against those who seek peace. If She so chooses to erradicate the Amon'krie, they will have their day. Our initial mistakes with the Zynarra are another matter. To put it another way, if I were to come to the hut of any agnostic Norak, and kick his door in, knock out the foundations, and thus bring his structure to the dirt, simply to bring his word of the Text and Her existence, would he then be dispositioned to listen? I doubt it. So it was with the Zynarra. Although certain institutions refuse to acknowledge wrong-doing, the same unfortunate conclusions should not be sought.

I hear the Templar fleet above Olontra II is due for an overhaul. Tallik says there must be some reason why we were sent here. Along with us, we've brought two of the Continuum's brightest engineers to oversee the retrofit. Our stock piles are heavy with resources. However, the Elders worry that a retrofit is exactly what the Amon'krie wait for. The destroyers over Olontra II lack defensive and offensive sensors and the latest weapons. Three new Washington Cruiser class ships have come Online, but with recent advances already the model is going into its second Version. Perhaps one or more will be sent to Olontra.

The main battle fleet stationed between Amon'krie space and CueCappan space is on the move. They are heading to reopen relations with the Zynarra. The Zynarra will no doubt initially think we mean to reopen old wounds. Perhaps we never had any relations in the first place. Whatever the case, we hope our main fleet will convince them that war is futile and can only cost the lives of millions. Tallik says the Continuum no longer seeks colonization in their space, we only seek normalized relations and the guarantee that our ships can explore without fear of attack. Some think this is provocation or subjugation...a forced hand if you will. I personally think this is closure. Tallik says our fleet means no harm. We merely seek to prove that they have nothing to gain by further hostilites. But...if they seek war, they shall get it.

Back on the homeworld, the ship which will make use of the two outer lying systems filled with asteroids is nearly ready. Tallik says three more months and it will roll out of space dock. Four years ago, when this plan was first concoted by the Elders, six colonizers were commissioned and built, three for rock planets and three for ice planets. Since it won't be able to tackle the larger asteroid fields our scientists have stated that few if any gas planets will come into being. The majority will be either rock or ice. These ships have been waiting mothballed for the Last four years.

All things in their own time.

[TerranC]

Hmm...

*Dusts off Temporal Incursion Beam*
*cough* *cough*
*polishs the TCARS*

*Kicks the darn contraption*

Work damn you!

[geoschmo]

Year 2409.1 (This post was a combined effort detailing the dialogue between the Norak and Sallgan representatives.)

Cecil Calvert walked down the shuttle ramp and handed his papers to the Norak in charge. This was his first visit to Olontra II, but not his first trip offworld by any means. His duties as deputy cultural attache had taken him to nearly a dozen worlds belonging to 5 different races over the years. He had never been given one of the choice ambasadorial positions that required so many political connections, but his knack for getting things had meant that he stayed busy none the less. He also was not well known outside of the diplomatic core of the various races. This combination of anonimity and ability was very important in critical "unofficial" missions such as this one.

This planet was very pleasant by Sallegan standards. The Norak colony appeared to be thriving and growing. From his vantage point on the platform he could see the remains of the old city destroyed by the Amonkrie in the war years before. Avoiding such destruction in the future is precisly why Calvert was here.

Having been notified of his imminent arrival, the Norak Consular office had sent a ground car to pick him and his aide up. As they rode in silence, he reviewed the latest intelligence reports from the Cephredi system. Things there were quickly comping to a head. He feared there would be much bloodshed, but he hoped he was wrong. The path his own government had started down was a dangerous one, thought Calvert. It would not end well if there were any misunderstandings among their allies.

He hoped also that his imformation about Deacon Tallik was correct, that this was a man who had the ear of the Norak Council of Elders. He had met Tallik before at a treaty function in the early days of Republic-Continuum relations. But they had done little more than exchange plesantries, and Calvert had been a minor official at the time. He doubted the Norak would even remember him.

As he arrived he was usshered into the office of Deacon Tallik who was seated and speaking to several others Calvert didn't recognize.

"Decon Tallik, thank you for seeing me on such short notice." Calvert bgean.

Deacon Tallik rose at the sudden entrance of the Sallega representative. "Ambassador Calvert, we welcome you to Olontra II. It seems we have met before, since you directly put the name to the face. This is my trusted assistant Monk Raeghar. Please have a seat. We also return the thanks to your government in allowing us input into this grave situation. Please, please...proceed."

"The Sallgan Republic has grave concerns over the recent events in the Cephredi system. As allies to the Norak, the Amonkrie, and the Zynarians, it pains us to see the constant fighting between your races and loss of life. We have attempted for years to work out a peaceful settlement between the warring parties to no avail."

"Recently our own relations with the Zynarians have become strained over their incresingly irrational demands that we break our treaties with the Norak and Amonkrie and take direct military action against both of you. Let me reassure you Deacon that the Republic has no intention of cedeing to any such demand. They have also recently violated an agreement between our peoples over colonization rights to Cephredi VII."

"This has placed my government in an extermely uncomfortable position. We cannot take up arms against another of our allies in defense of a corrupt government. Perhaps the most politically viable position for the Republic would be to withdraw and let the Zynars and Amonkrie resolve their own issues. But as a people who value life in all it's forms, we cannot sit back and allow the Zynarian people to be exterminated. We know from the experience of others that the Amonkrie are not enemies to be triffled with. One need only look out your own window at the remains of the old city to see how the Amonkrie comport themselves in battle. The Sallegans may have to take control of the Zynars to save the people from their own leaders. Their irrational behavior has angered the Amonkrie and is risking an all out attack which could result in an end to the Zynar race." Calvert paused to allow Tallik a response.

Deacon Tallik began, "We understand your concern and are more than willing to help. The Norak have come to Cephedri one Last time in hopes of peace. Ever since the Norak Continuum lost millions of lives in a foolish attempt to colonize parts of Cephedri, we've sought only peace and reconciliation. I will not decieve you Ambassador, our fleet is a show of force. Many in the Counsel are tired of extending hand after hand to the Zynarra.

"On the other hand, we have had a rocky past with the Amon'krie and we fear if the Sallega attempt to subjugate or install a puppet government in the house of Zynarra, relations between the Amon'krie and the Sallega could deteriorate. The Sallega and the Amon'krie are both vital to the peace of this entire quadrant of the galaxy, and were relations between your people and the Amon'krie to falter, we would have no choice but to involve ourselves.

"Practically though, if the Zynarra choose to make their peace with us, we will petition the Amon'krie to halt the hostilities; otherwise I fear our government may think the extinction of the Zynarr, as an independent people, a good thing. If the Sallega proceed, we ask in the name of the Almighty, that no manner of genocide take place...neither that, nor the wholesale killing of citizens. Planets are not to be bombarded by any means! You must understand. If you sit here and tell us your actions are for the safety and protection of the Zynarra, to save their civilization from death, then we, the Norak, will hold you to your intentions. We've given the Zynarra one Last chance at peace, and expect their answer at any time. We would ask that your government do the same. I have been briefed on the colonization treaty you claim the Zynarra have violated. Bluntly, and take this as the mind of my superiors, the claim is rather weak. If this point of matter is indeed the Last inch which drove the Sallega to action, then may we suggest you offer the Zynarra some payment for the planet."

Calvert considered his response carefully. He sincerely believed every word he was saying about the republics intentions. However he also had no illusions about the possibility that he was being left out of the loop on some things. He hoped that it did not turn out just to be that his government was taking advantage of the situation for a "land grab".

He spoke, "Deacon, your words as always are wise. However, the Sallegan republic does not consider this action rashly. We only bring up the issue of the colony rights as an example of the irrationality of the Zynarian leaders of late. We would never take such serious actions over such a minor issue. Subjugation of other races is not something we seek. We believe that every race has the right to self governance, as long as they show they can do so peacfully with other races. But that right is out-weighed by the individual memebers of that races personal right to exsist. We shall give your negotiations every chance for success. We have as well been expending great efforts to get the Zynar and Amonkrie talking to each other. But if it becomes clear the Amonkrie and Zynar cannot be convinded to make peace, we will be forced to take action to to ensure the survival of the Zynar race."

Tallik leaned slowly back in his high-backed chair. He knew full well what Calvert was saying could not be refuted. Recent reports from Cephedri revealed the real destruction inherent in this conflict. Recent ship movements and our technology intelligence of the Amon'krie showed no intent on their part to take Zynarra worlds intact. "The Norak know little of this conflict, and have to wonder at it's beginnings and underlying dispute. We realize full well that the Amon'krie are slightly expansionistic and have the tendency to expect more than their share...if such a thing exists. But the Zynarra are unreasonable and prone to violence. If negotiations fail, our fleet will remain in Zynarra space to ensure that all parties act sensibly. Although both the Sallega and the Amon'krie are our allies, we will not take immediate sides in this matter. However, we warn you, that the Amon'krie will no doubt lay claim to much of Zynarr space, if you proceed to overthrow their corrupt..."

As Deacon Tallik spoke, Raeghar, his trusted assistant was called from the conference room, only to immediately return. Raeghar handed Tallik a small note. The note contained two short sentences. Tallik forced himself not to sigh or show any sign of surprise. Tallik continued, "It seems, Ambassador, that the Zynarra have refused our Last call for peace, and the Counsel has sent our fleet previously stationed over the warp point leading to Amon'krie space to the Zynarra homeworld. The intent here is to blockade the planet not to destroy it. Finally, the Amon'krie have attacked two planets in Cephedri...I'm not sure which ones. It seems both our questions have been answered, and I am sure you'll wish to straight-way depart, but let me say just two things. Now is the time for you to protect your friends, Ambassador. As we have no intention on their destruction, we also have no desire to lose ships and relations with the Amon'krie and the Sallega in protecting them. May the Almighty grant you wisdom and insight into this matter.

"Thank you for your time Deacon." Calvert said as he prepared to leave, "I must of course return immediately to the Republic and see what the situation is. I am glad to see we are in agreement. I hope we are not too late to avert a disaster."

[TerranC]

A Favor; How about releasing a gam. file for those of us very interested in this story?

Pretty Please?

[geoschmo]

quote:

---

Originally posted by TerranC:
A Favor; How about releasing a gam. file for those of us very interested in this story?

Pretty Please?

---

Turn 2401.4

Standings:
1st place - Norak
2nd place - Sallega
3rd place - Fazrah
4th place - Praetorian
5th place - Jraenar (Somewhere. I don't think they have been encountered by either of us yet.)

LATEST TURN FILE
All the empires in the game should have password of 'History1', even Mench and I. I know mine is. Not sure about mensch. We have refrained from checking out the AI though, playing this one straight.

Geoschmo

[ 14 April 2002: Message edited by: geoschmo ]