TW: Kingdoms of the Void IC

[ArcaneStomper]

All Walls Must Fall

Year 3,792 of the Imperial Calendar
For centuries the Imperium has existed in name only. Not only has the Imperial throne been vacant for generations, but a great calamity has isolated the houses. Centuries ago during the third Vespid onslaught the greatest houses of that time mounted a final defense in the heartland of the Imperium, the vaunted Hallow Sector. Their armadas were immense and their weapons were beyond the imagination of the current nobility, but their foe were the terrible Vespid. A swarm of ancient star creatures whose bodies blotted out the stars and whose tendrils acted with alien cunning.

In a last desperate struggle the Imperial fleets lured the greatest of the Vespid tendrils in the Swarm to assault the throne world of Sigma Kuldava. Then they detonated an enigmatic device unearthed from ancient ruins. The exact purpose of this device is unclear, but whatever the intended results the actual effect was a calamitous wave of energy that blasted through systems and propagated over the warp gate network.

The Hallow Sector was all but wiped out, and what few worlds remained were nearly inaccessible as the warp gates in the sector remained unstable and subject to disastrous fluctuations. A few desperate traders still made the passage, their numbers thinned even more by pirates and the attacks of vestigial vespid hives. But in general the Great Houses have had only limited contact with each other through risky convoys or the even more dangerous outlaw gates.

That has changed in recent times however. Traders are making the passage in increasing number as the scientists of the great houses report that the warp gates have begun to stabilize once more. Now the nobility of the Imperium can once more fete even their most distant neighbors. But more importantly the Hallow Sector is now open to them.

The richest and largest of all the sectors. With uncountable ruins full of technology long thought lost. Open and waiting for any to claim it. And the greatest prize of all, the Titanium throne, and with it access to the mighty Imperial Fleets, still preserved in their stasis yards and as potent as they were at the death of the last Emperor.

[Zweanslord]

THE IMPERIUM

[A_Dinosaur]

House Drantio

Enigma 4

“Bring it on screen Sylvia, I’d like to read it myself.” Teeth clenched Vanya Drantio tried to hold her composure as the New Labrador Conglomerate memo flashed onto the comscreen.

Duchess Vanya Drantio, Third of her Name, Overlord of Cassiopeia and Robblehof, Supreme Admiral of the Karkaro Fleet, Master of the Throne of Coins…

The long list of honorifics went on in tedious flattery. Vanya knew that she would be equally annoyed were they left out, but that thought only soured her frown deeper.

Given the circumstances of your ascension to the throne, and the noble status you have chosen the NLC feels most strongly that political decisions in the realms of nobilities must have oversight from the people of Cassiopeia, as they will be affected most strongly by a careless remark against the wrong interstellar sovereignty.

Following the will of the people and protecting their lives and dignity remains a core of the noble traditions, and to ensure this tradition is upheld the NLC will be adopting a close oversight policy over all diplomatic communications between the nobility of Cassiopia and other constituencies. Please ensure that all of your communications are passed to the Tamera Publishing House for editing before they are sent aboard the message drone network.

Best Regards,
Stephan Ober,
CEO of Stargrinder Inc.

She had known something like this was in development, her limited spy network had assured her of that, but knowledge of its approach did not give her the power to prevent its arrival. The messages' contents hurt her dignity far less than they hurt her wider plans, but the simpering aggression still stung. She forced her face to relax before turning to Sylvia Forche, her lady in waiting.

“Please arrange a polite response of agreement for Mr. Ober, I imagine it won't be long before you are joined by a corporate watchdog, so I have a few things to arrange before then.”

Sylvia hurried out of the room, leaving only Vanya and her expressionless bodyguards. She pulled out her grandfather's black book, idle tracing the rune on the cover with one finger. Opening it she pressed the biometric barcode against a scanner of the venerable desk that dominated her office. A drawer hissed smoothly from one side, revealing a treasure trove of strange knick knacks and bundled papers, precious baubles of a man who loved risk more than he loved reward. She spread them across the desktop, baubles rattling and papers rustling, power and promises bound in favours. Some were simple invitations or introductions, those she set aside, useful, but irrelevant to her current time pressure. She reached for a chess piece, the black queen, cast from an alloy of coins from a hundred worlds. She gazed at its intricate design, whorls and letters blending together.

“We will set you back up soon, just need a bit of patience.”

She set aside the bauble and reached for the piled promises.

Players

House Tyrun

Spoiler

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Greetings Most Wise Jayce Tyrun,
With my reconquest of Robblehof complete, our borders touch once more. So please consider this diplomatic outreach to be one of reassurance and friendship. I wish no quarrel between our states and indeed, wish us both enduring stability. If there are any exploration ventures we could partner in, please do not hesitate to contact me.

With Best Regards,
Duchess Vanya Drantio, Third of her Name, Overlord of Cassiopeia and Robblehof, Supreme Admiral of the Karkaro Fleet, Master of the Throne of Coins

[Shadowflick]

Enigma 4

Cthink.....

Cthink..

Cthink.....

"Hammers tole and Muscles sore we work until the dawn.
Smashing steel and making meals we work until we're gone!
Our Blades are Cold our bone are old we fight like the whirling storm
Death we breathe and Beasts we beat the home choose is a deadly roof
Jotenhel we call ourselves Our helms are held quite high
The Abyss we seem to throw ourselves and burn our forges bright!"

The rocky walls of the HelStar rumble as the Jotenhal bellow a mighty work song. There hammers smashing cold steel into weapons of war and hunt, all the while their spirits are lifted from the song. Sweat moves down there toned bodies as men and women work in the forges, pouring the odd molten metal the Jotenhel have claimed as there hallmark. They are preparing, not for war, at least not necessarily. The Jotenhel are always preparing for the worst outcome. A monster attack or a raid of some kind.

"From the Pits of the Abyss, bring you're best Lokia!" Yells the soon to be High Freya. Sonja Iron Crown. Standing at almost eight feet tall, the woman was built like a monster. Her face carried a jagged scar that went down one eye, her nose eternally broken. Her lips were chapped and the victim of there own brutal scars, and she was missing a whole ear. She lacked fat in almost every regard, instead covered in the lean muscle like most of the Jotenhel people. She was currently clad in her power armor. It's a common misconception that power armor must be sleek suits that perfectly match the wielder. In Jotenhel, that was not the case. Each was unique in how it was shaped. Sonja's armor was a jagged mes of trophies. Teeth, armor, braids of fallen warriors. All of it was gathered and attached to her armor as if it was an attempt at telling her storied history as a warrior. Jotenhel runes were inscribed on each of the weapons, drawn on by using the acid of the dangerous Korgreth Spider.

Today, she goes about the final trial of the High Freya. A trial by combat against some of the most vicious beasts inside the Jotenhel lands. SHe had already slayed the Grenda and the Crystal Wolf. Now..lies her last challenge. A Fully Grown Star Dragon. A beast like this would usually take a team of seasoned Jotenhel hunters in their full power armor to face. But today? Sonja would have to face it herself.

The beats towers above the new Freya, it's hide as black as the stary sky, absorbing the light around it save for the small twinkling crytsals that dotted it's a body like stars. They softly glow as it breathes, a cold gas billowing from it's toothed maw.

A cold wind blows as the Dragon begins the fight with it's deadly breath. An icy gas that froze it'ss victims and slowly melted them within the ice. The Freya would counter it by deploying her rayshield, kneeling down to create a smaller surface area that would let the breath splash off. As she dug her heels into the ground, her shoulder cannon, shaped like the maw of a wolf, would 'howl' firing off three rockets to the left of her, each locking onto the Dragon before slamming onto the side of it's face, the breath now coating the sid eof the arena. Given this chance, Sonja drops the Rayshield, activating her back thrusters as she charges forward, her sword smiting the side of the Star dragon and causing a splash of purple blood to splatter agint the ground. The Dragon retorts by slaming it's claw down onto Sonja's arm, pinning her suit to the floor as it prepares another breath. Sonja has to act quickly, thus, she unlocks the arm portion of the suit and pulls her bare arm free, leaving it bare. She point sher another arm up to the dragons both and launches a Lasernet ver it's snout, sealing it's mouth shut! A tail comes down and hits Sonja's chest, sending teeth and trophies flying as she's launched into the wall. She can feel the blood pool in her mouth, her ribs broken from teh impact but still she does not stop. She takes to the air, The Dragon deciding instead of freeing itself from the net unfurls it's wings, the many crystals on it's body glowing brightly as they unleash a barrage of lasers at the woman. She performs evasive maneuvers, curling around each beam and letting the armor take glancing blows as it could, her Ray shield returning as she attempts to block several of the blasts. The dragon uses this to its advantage, taking off from the ground as it seeks to end this duel with a fatal bite. The Freya is suppressed by the beams, her shield cracking as they pelt her. It's maw gapes, stark white teeth clashing with it's void black skin as it preys on the Freya

Sonja smiles beneath her mask, her boosters activating there afterburners as she charges foreward, blade in ahdn. There is one fatal cut...and She slams against the ground in a heap....the Dragon falling behind her, it's head split from it's body.

Slowly, she rises, holding her exposed arm up into the air. The Crowd cheers for there new lord. "SONJA, SONJA, SONJA"

[Warmatt]

Enigma 5

Grim'nithar Testing Asteroid 57893-Delta-14-Foxtrot-Jamaica-Whack-A-Mole (Name provided via Grim'nithar Random Name Generator 14c)


For the most part, as he worked in orbit around the asteroid (which was devoid of all life save the test subjects) through a relay of drones and remote equipment, Tazmuz Crakspot smiled. To be sure, he was testing another variation of a weapon that would be locked into a vault and promptly forgotten about unless there was a pressing need for a zombie apocalypse. Which, really, given the fact that the routes into the hollow were opening up again? Well, the Vespid were insects, and so if they lurked behind the unseen veil, they may as well prepare and make ready for the fourth onslaught... even if, as he sighs, taking in all the data as the testing area is overrun in a tide of berserk fungi, it would be a terrible distraction from the real work.

After all, the edges of the Abyssal Maw needed to be mapped and studied more, and then there would be the prototypes for the rift generators and local dimensional reinforcement projects. So much to do, and so little time really....

[Vrock Bait]

House Transcendent
Apotheosis in Transhumanity

Enigma: 5

The Arbiter smiled. Council was in session.

Standing on a raised pedestal in the middle of the chamber, she was surrounded by two lines of smaller platforms intersecting at her position. Ethics descended from north to south, while caution turned to bravery from west to east.

“As I was saying,” X-Y-1 continued, a wavering hologram next to her. His title was the Marshal - they had put him in charge of preliminary expansion. “The drones we sent out to the east and south have both spotted scattered mining installations, belonging to Houses Makpal and Jotenhel respectively. Archivist?”

Above him, X-Y+2 tapped something out on her tablet. “Makodel records from before the exodus name House Makpal as an incredibly disciplined hierarchy of miners. Their military is strong, but still weaker than ours by a substantial amount.”

“Let’s invade them and be done with it then!” X+Y-2, or the Warlord said, from across the chamber.

“For once,” the Archivist said, still tapping on her tablet, “I agree with the mongrel. They’ll make an excellent first conquest - rich, but not rich enough to draw attention. Strong, but not strong enough to defeat us. We’ll be able to expedite our passage to the galactic center. Once we seize the Galactic Throne, we can clear out stragglers on a case-to-case basis.”

“Ah, just one problem,” Came the oily voice of X-Y-2, or the Viscount. “The latter House we’ve come into contact with.”

“My records name no house with the name Jotenhel.” The Archivist stated. “They’re most likely second-stringers of some kind.”

“What’s the problem?” Said X+Y+2, or the Champion, gruffly. “We go in, we take over, we move on, we gut the imperium like a fish.”

“We cannot, as you put it so eloquently, ‘gut the Imperium like a fish,’” the Viscount replied. “In fact, if you had done a modicum of observation based off current information, you would know that they are in fact a horde of militaristic scavengers intent on ripping apart all basic decency for scrap. Scrap. Complete deplorables.”

“If they are, as you say, ‘complete deplorables,’” said X-Y+3, the Dialectician, from the corner. “Then the discipline of our Dread Armada should easily break past their crude ‘horde.’”

“You don’t understand, sophist.” The Viscount replied drily. “I suppose I’ll have to resort to your pedestrian statistics. We have fifteen fleets. They have fourteen.”

“That’s-” The Warlord was interrupted by the Arbiter.

“This in-fighting will get us nowhere,” The Arbiter said. “We are not humans. We are better, and should act better. The Influencer is correct, we would be able to beat them, but only if we move first. We’ll need to take them out pre-emptively.”

“The Arbiter is right,” Added the Machiavellian, at location X-Y-3. “We need to finish them off early. From our analyses of other nations and their development, they’re our most substantial threat in the galaxy. But what you’re all forgetting is that we can simply... make peace with them.”

At the same time, the Warlord, Marshal and Champion all started speaking out again.

“We can’t afford that!” the Marshal said. “We extend the olive branch, we lose the element of surprise. They’re savages, there’s no reasoning with them. All we’re doing by playing diplomatic is handing them our advantage in the war that’s going to come anyway. We attack.”

And so, they voted.

Spoiler: Chart to keep track of Petraxial Council

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Dialectician UKNOWN
Archivist Champion
UKNOWN UKNOWN
Arbiter
Marshal UKNOWN
Viscount Warlord
Machiavellian UKNOWN

[PopeLinus1]

Enigma 5

The sky of Domi was red and yellow, and filled with smog. The source of said smog was the source of all viewing of the smog; the endless swath of factories stretching out beyond Tabellar's sight. Domi was once a great source of culture and beauty, but Tabellar was not one for nostalgia, even f he had anything to be nostalgic for. The many noble families who had ruled the place before had done a better job of keeping the air clean... Yet their various approaches to ethical matters was quite enough to make Tabellar glad of the current change of management.

Drones were a common sight still, but at least now they weren't so common they were enforcing a surveillance state. Now they merely zipped from local bureaucracy to another, listening to complaints and delivering payments. Occasionally one would deliver a public address. All had doubts of who was on the other side, yet even the absence of that certainty hadn't led to the systems collapsing as many had feared it would.

Tabellar worked an office for a manager tasked with upholding what minor taxes and regulations were in place. The work was exceedingly boring, yet Tabellar was suited for it. His aptitude towards his job brought him little pleasure, although it did not tax his mental state quite like his last job had. Those days were over, and there was nothing to do but look at the colorful, yet dirty horizon

On the horizon, he saw two drones fly side by side across the skyline, and then zoom up quickly, higher and higher until they faded completely from view. They were clearly heading out of the atmosphere, but as too where, Tabellar could not say. As he pondered the seemingly infinite amount of locations something that could travel so quickly and widely could be heading towards, his transport came to a stop. His daily commute had at last come to a merciful end.

When he opened the door to his flat, he found a drone waiting. Tabellar sighed and approached to hear it's message.

"R1a3"

Tabellar pondered this greatly, before giving his reply.

"Qh4e1"

And so, the drone exited through the open window. Tebellar base it farewell and went to sleep.

Spoiler: Message for House Drantio

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Towards the noble and just ruler Vanya Drantio,

What is there to say of the great House of Drantio? Anyone who is even passingly aware of their world knows of your many triumphs and glories, in the present, and stretching far into the past, and surely, the future. Therefore it is my hope that the Houses of Nec Domi and Drantio have only friendship between them during this time of trials, and long past it.

Spoiler: Message for House Aitpur

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Towards the righteous and divine ruler Kanti Aitpur.

It is, I hope, our shared belief that the many great qualities of the Empire have been shattered in this time of disunity. There stand no great kings, and no great Emperor, only great men. And of the great men with there many ships and land, who is greater than you? From the blood of Emperors of old, you have sought knowledge and advancement as long as you have ruled. Who would be more capable of reforging the empire towards it's rightful state?

Towards our shared goal of healing these many worlds, I do hear pledge myself, and all my lands as your vassal.

[Jyssika]

Enigma 3

Open Communication to Everyone.

A heavily cloaked figure stood in the centre of a large domed room, from high above rays of deep orange light light cast torch-like beams in the thick dusty air of the room. She crouched down and touched the floor below her feet. It had once been the glass of the colossal domed roof above but now—having been smashed by weapons fire, melted molten by the heat of war and left to set by the cold embrace of isolation—formed a strange time capsule into her House's downfall.

It was almost like an exhibit in a museum, she had read about those in books, captured for all eternity under the foot thick layer of arma-glass that now encased the floor of her families former throne room. The Throne itself, scorched of all but the metal frame, stood at the far end of the room with its once raised platform now almost perfectly level with the now raised floor. Beneath the floor she could see the skeletal remains of various subjects and only by closely examining some of the, now slightly warped, metal objects they had died holding could she make any sort of guess who they had been. Some were clearly guards, soldiers or potentially even assailants. There was a noble with a huge warped metal sword at his waist. She briefly pondered who they might have been.

"My Lady, we must leave." The shaven head member of one of her personal guard looked around anxiously. As though even this empty barren tomb might still hold enemies or assassins sent to kill her. Yet, she had not survived by being reckless. "It is too risky to remain here."
"Very well, have a Reaper establish themselves as noble here. This is to be the capital of the House once again." She lifted herself to her feet again, her long black mourning dress billowing around her form as she once again stood up to her full height. "Establish a working naval yard, pull every living subject away from whatever tasks they are performing. We will need them should our new boarders not hold, and find me a drone. We must be the ones to make first contact—no doubt our enemies have spread vile rumors that need to be quenched."

---

Greetings Esteemed Houses, Dukes, Duchesses, Dukes, Earls, Lords, Ladies, Imperial Citizens and whomever else receives this message.

As you may, or may not know the House of Au'nté has been bound upon the rack of war and wracked almost to the point of breaking. Despicable, greedy and traitorous republicans usurped the former House Couteau and then began their attempts upon my own House, the noble House of Soie. I speak to you now from the molten remains of the Au'nté throne room. The system and its surrounding worlds are once again firmly in our control and the remants of House Couteau nothing but splintered factions of pirates drifting desperately through the void in search of new targets.

Our nation seeks to extend the hand of friendship to the various Imperial Houses that still stand, be you our direct neighbors or distance long lost acquaintances. Although there is little we have to offer in the way of Trade and Research we hope that some of you are willing to help us rebuild what the war has taken from us. It is in our darkest hour that we need the light of friendship the most, least we fall to desperate measures.

We must urge you to ward yourself against the splinter fleets of piracy that emanate from our wounds of war. The former House of Couteau strike with all the stealth and deadliness of vipers and the Years of Silk and Dagger have only refined their art at such nefarious practice. They are a small, innocuous and yet brutal enemy who will slip into your House's under the radar and tear apart the very fabric of your House from within. They must be guarded against and repelled at all cost. Least you fall into the same turmoil of the House Au'Nté.

Lady Soie,
Mistress of House Au'Nté.

Spoiler: House Ottenfels

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Greetings Duchess Burgunda Ottenfels,

Please excuse the lack of privacy that our message bearers currently are able to deliver, it is something we hope to be able to address in the near future. Know that any such message we recieve will be replied to with up-most discretion of its more private contents.

I send this message to your people in the hopes it will be the first in a long lasting and mutually beneficial relationship. Please allow me to share my deepest admiration for your nations bold and decisive stance on defense. It appears some of our fellow Houses have not yet discovered all the harshness the Imperium has to offer but your House clearly is prepared for any eventualities.

Now, to get down to the business at hand. It seems that during our civil war our two nations have become entangled. The Frontière cluster worlds [-03,11] that we captured from House Couteau cut directly across your territory and blocks access to your own worlds as well as the Imperium as a whole. Similarly we are equally forced to cross through your space in order to access the Imperium as a whole. We wish to extend the first olive branch in establishing some form of Treaty to which we agree neither of us ever impede [Blockade] the other from accessing our own colonies or the Imperium. I am sure this is not something that should need to be formally agreed in most cases but it seems only prudent to do so. Should you wish to discuss further terms we are more than happy to consider them.

Lastly, should you know of any possibilities or opportunities in which our people could earn some [Merchant] by lending our combat or intelligence experience please do not hesitate to contact us.

Lady Soie,
Mistress of House Au'Nté.

[Psilulz]

House Tyrun

Jayce Tyrun sat in his office, elbows resting on the table in front of him, fingers interlaced in front of his chin. He read a number of messages from the various other houses around the Imperium.

Truly, this is a new age for the Imperium, and hopefully, House Tyrun as well.

Counselors argued the pros and cons of responding to various factions, shouting things like, "We should only communicate with others as high-minded as Tyrun!" or "The flame of knowledge should be spread to every star of the Imperium!" Jayce merely sighed in his seat, waiting for them to peter out. It took quite some time, though he was used to it by now. Occasionally, some of them offered some good ideas, which is why he was willing to suffer through all this debate, though clearly, these consults spent most of their time in charge of their own labs, unused to any sort of argument.

"We are coming out of an era of isolation. We need friends and allies, anywhere we can find them. At the very least, some level of stability while we adjust to the current political state of the Imperium. I can think of no better place to start than our neighbors."

The man turned to look out large vista-filled window, overlooking the busy roads and streets of the Tyrunian captial. He sighs, the burdens of leadership already weighing upon him. "I thank you for your guidance. You are all dismissed."

The various advisors shuffle out, quietly talking mostly about politics and whatever projects they are currently working on.

Once they are gone, Jayce turns to his console, and begins writing.

Enigma 2

House Drantio

Spoiler

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Duchess Vanya Drantio,

I hope this message finds you well. It gladdens me to hear of your wish for an amicable relationship. It is a wish that I, too, share. As House Tyrun doffs the chains of isolation, there are a great number of our scientists eager to leave the confines of their laboratories and explore the stars once more. Our charts are old, but I had planned to use them as a starting point for exploration. As a token of faith, I leave to you an invitation for your scientists to join my own on one such venture. Unfortunately, I haven't the slightest idea of what we'll find, and the safety surrounding such an expedition is an unknown factor.

Let me know what you think of this arrangement, or if you wish to know more about the expedition.

On another note, my records show your house to be in possession of some considerable amount of wealth and production capabilities. Your title, the Master of the Throne of Coins, is also particularly interesting. I am interested to hear what sorts of financial arrangements your house is able to offer, and with what you would accept as payment.


Your friend and neighbor,

Jayce Tyrun, Grand Architect of House Tyrun

House Vaulxerr

Spoiler

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Warm greetings Duke Icert Vaulxerr,

House Tyrun emerges from isolation seeking friends. It is our hope to create some measure of peace and stability in this region of space.

We share a great deal of border space, and it likewise our hope that we will share a great deal of mutual gain and benefit from one another in the future.


Your friend and neighbor,

Jayce Tyrun, Grand Architect of House Tyrun

[A_Dinosaur]

House Drantio

Enigma 4

Players

House Tyrun

Spoiler

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Most Wise Jayce Tyrun,
My scientists are precious and comparatively few, but I shall certainly consider your offer. I was more considering economic investment or escort, but I shall have to consider things further. Do you have concrete plans for your considerable science budget yet? I wonder if you might consider some joint archive research a few years down the line? As said my scientists are few compared to your distinguished universities, but once their immediate production schedule has been completed perhaps we could organize something?

With regards to the production of my house, you heard rightly. Our people are industrious and our coffers will fill quickly assuming things go according to plan. Given that your house lacks some of the production of Cassiopiea, would an arrangement of prototype production in exchange for archives and theoretical blueprints be of any interest? I think we could benefit well from covering our respective weaknesses. In particular, a boon I would value most highly is trade hub basing rights among your systems, though discussions of that nature I would wish to remain private.

Ah, and the Throne of Coins is my family’s hereditary seat here on New Labrador, and symbolizes my rule over the Star Kingdom of Cassiopeia, regardless of the current status my crown finds itself in.

With Best Regards,
Duchess Vanya Drantio, Third of her Name, Overlord of Cassiopeia and Robblehof, Supreme Admiral of the Karkaro Fleet, Master of the Throne of Coins

NPCs

House Vaulxerr

Spoiler

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Duke Icert the Many Faceted,
My good duke, our borders touch among the stars, and I wonder what might be your plans among the core worlds of the once mighty Imperium, your house is almost uniquely poised to explore and re-colonize the territory once called our collective capitol, and if my scientists or agents go to explore there as well, I would not want to interrupt your people.

With Best Regards,
Duchess Vanya Drantio, Third of her Name, Overlord of Cassiopeia and Robblehof, Supreme Admiral of the Karkaro Fleet, Master of the Throne of Coins

[Vrock Bait]

House Transcendent
Apotheosis in Transhumanity

Spoiler: Message to House Sivvik

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Greetings, Duke Sivvik,

I hope this message finds you in good wealth. We are recent arrivals back into the politics of the galaxy, and I hope we will be able to forge an alliance together, specifically against the anathema of civilization that calls itself “House Jotenhel”. Like you, our civilization is one of culture and sophistication, things far from the barbaric conditions rampant between our two territories. Our recent surveys have calculated that they hold together a total of 14 hordes of patchwork ships stolen from nobles houses like you and I. With your help, we will be able to defeat them as the ancient hero Caesar once conquered Gaul, bringing civilization to their savage land. If you are willing to benefit from such an agreement, our navies will have to work in careful syncopation, and we are willing to take only two fifths of their lands as vassals, handing you the far richer 60% for your great house. If you would like to join us on such a venture, please do not hesitate to send to negotiate, we are happy to compromise.

May your lands always be exalted in bounty,
X-Y-3 of the Petraxial Council, House Transcendent

[Shadowflick]

House Jotenhel

"WAAR! Take there Treasure! Dash there Skulls!" shouts the leader of the Raw-Talon Clan, a portly Jotenhel with a long grey beard, bits of scrap from previous battles woven into it. "You would undo years of building with this plan Sonja. THe Jotenhel have remained outsiders to the ways of the Imperium for Centuries. Now you call us a house? You wish to be like these weak, soft-skinned southerners who lack the cold iron in there blood!" he continues, spittle flying from his maw of sharpened teeth.

"As much as this fat-bellied vulture's squawks hurt my ears, he has a point" says Marias, Leader of the Shadow Bats. A woman of dark skin and hair, currently wearing there Night shroud battle armor. Sleek and as dark as space. Her eyes pierce through most who try and look at her, their color an eerie grey. "The Jotenhel have made it a point to not be like those houses, restricted in there freedom do to some promise made by there ancestors. I supported you in your ascent to the throne my Freya but...this seems extreme."

Sonja, the High Freya, raises a hand to silence the numerous other squabbling clans. As much as they disagree with her idea, no one may speak when the High Freya does. She wears her full armor, her old helm replaced by that of the Iron crown. A frog helm with four spiked horns of iron, at the center a red gem of some kind "Hush ye squabaling primates. Yes, this is..unorthodox, I admit. BUT, the Viodin granted me this vision. A clarity into the future that I must bring. A dark shroud risks plaguing the galaxy, and us with it. The Only way to stop it is to...move foreward. I don't liek the idea of bein a hous eof the Imperium. SPITS in the face of what we were, But if we hope to survive we have to learn to move FOREWARD. We have monsters in the west, and Family in the south. If we all united, we would become a force that would shake the Galaxy. Just our fleets combined would be enough to wipe out any threat from the howling Vortex."

She leans bac upon the Throne "Thus..for the first time in Jotenhel history. The Great Moot will not only be open to the Clans..but to our neighbors, for the purposes of...uhh...diplomacy."

-----------------------------
Cypher 4

Spoiler: To the House Trancendent

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A lone scout ship ferries it's way to the border of the Transcendents lands, carrying but a single passenger, an apparent messenger.

The man, clad in the signature power armor of the Jotenhel steps out from his ship, wielding one of there massive great horns.Crafted by taking the remains of a Dred bellowers throat and riping out it's vocal chords, it Somehow had the ability to cut through the silence of space. Vevaroooooooooom!

"Oy! Ye Transcendent lads! The High Freya of the Jotenhel formally invite ye to be a member of the upcoming Clan moot in order to discuss the future of our combined sectors! The rules of the grand moot are simple! We talk like them civilized folk in the south and try and work our problems out with eh..words! yea! Either way, this be a formal invitation for you, The High Freya has expressed her personal interest in meeting your leader! Specifically this Champion of yours whose name is uhh...oy..I can't really read that so I'll just call him a Champion eh! The rules of Honor are strong in the Jotenhel, ye need not fear a knif in your back from us. We may even hold a grand hunt in the Vortex if youre intrested!"

Spoiler: House Sivivik

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A sight that would usually bring some amount of fear from the people of house Sivivik rears its ugly head in Sivivik space...however, the educated would know that this specific ship isn't a bad sign. In fact, the traders who decide to adventure into the lands of Jotenhel know that this specific ship is a good sign. The Baldar, a tribe of rathe good-willed Jotenhel who focus their efforts on battling monsters of space, and commonly provide their service for free to those willing too into the howling vortex

There tribe leader, Adurin the Fair, known for being a particularly handsome Jotenhel, with long blond hair and piercing blue eyes lands upon the nearest Space station of Sivivik. his armor matches his grace, modeled not unlike a knight of old. "Hail and Well met brothers and sisters of House Sivivik!" Proclaims the fair skinned messenger "My fellow people of the Jotenhel have welcomed your leaders to a Grand Moot of the tribes. Though, this time we thought we'd invite our fair neighbors to this incursion. The event will include a grand hunt into the howling vortex, in order to claim some new beast hides and treasures. As well as further discuss the future of our sector. We hold the North, but our leader thinks at by working as a united force we can do so much more then fight back against encrouching aliens and beasts. She believes that a horde not unlike the vespid will soon blanket our galaxy, and she believes that this kind of beast is not one that the Jotenhel can fight alone. Thus, she reached sout to you and the House Transcendent. Our houses together have the greatest navy in the Galaxy, combined with the greatest scientists and our forges, we could craft an empire that would put the old one to shame. We leave this choice to you....but, I implore you to come. You'll find the Jotenhel are more..civilized then what you might first believe..." He looks back, spying two members of his crew eyeing a moisture pump a bit too..closely

"hey..hey no..none of that. This is a diplomatic mission. No stealing" The two Jotenhel slouch in disappointment and head back into the ship

[Psilulz]

Enigma 2

House Drantio

Spoiler

Show

Duchess Vanya Drantio,

I would say that I uniquely understand the value of learning and research; if your own scientists are occupied with some other area of research, I would not deign to interfere with their pursuits. As for my own work, my counselors and I have only so far agreed upon a tentative framework:

[10 University] allocated towards exploration
[5 University] allocated towards archival research
[5 University] allocated towards blueprint development

Of course, this is only a tenuous outline, and subject to change. As for economic development and investment of resources, there are two schools of thought: to develop other areas areas of society to become more well-rounded, or to focus even more upon our scientific endeavors. Of course, we would welcome any sort of financial support, and may offer repayment in whatever form our scientists may assist House Drantio with. Certainly, your offer of prototype production for blueprints and archive development is quite interesting, and I am also open to discussion about what trade hub rights for House Drantio would look like in House Tyrun space.

House Au'Nté

Spoiler

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Lady Soie,

I am both troubled by your warning but gladdens that you have reestablished some measure of stability in your territory. Our agents will henceforth be ever vigilant of these nefarious pirates you mention.

House Tyrun also had a great interest in establishing friendships as we exit our many years of isolation. Please, let me know if there is anything I can do to assist in the rebuilding efforts of your house. House Tyrun has little to offer, except for the abilities of our many esteemed scientists, though it may he some time before they are available for new projects.

Your friend,
Jaycee Tyrun, Grand Architect of House Tyrun

[Jyssika]

Enigma 3

Spoiler: House Tyrun

Show

The recording flickers to life. The speaker, still covered in the veil of a black mourning gown, now in the confines of a cramped poorly lit office. Its walls, desk and appliances appear spartan at best and primitive at worst.

Greetings Jaycee Tyrun, Grand Architect of House Tyrun.

We must confess we had not expected a reply to come from quite so far. It brings great joy to know your people would be willing to extend such a gesture of friendship to our own crumbling dynasty.

Whilst we are quite unable to offer anything in the way of financial or educational exchange we might have a proposition of which you are interested. Our people have eyes and ears in a lot of places and whilst we have very little in the way of a stable economy or research capabilities have a considerably capable navy and intelligence service to respond should you find yourself struggling with the unforeseen aggression of another House.

Already there are Houses seeking to strike bargains with other Houses so they might quickly and decisively conqueror their neighbors. It might be worth while to have a friend who can foresee such cooperative aggression and act in your favor against it, however, we understand entirely if you do not fear such a situation befalling your own house or trust us yet to keep our word.

If such a committed Treaty is not something you are looking for then would also like to indicate our nation's ability, and willingness, to protect or conceal and such expeditions you might care to make into potentially dangerous territory. Not only is our nation capable of defending and such expeditions they could equally conceal it against spying eyes, the native population of the system you are visiting or even avoiding potential blockades you might encounter on your way.

We hope this message finds you well,

Lady Soie,
Mistress of House Au'Nté.

Spoiler: House Transcendent

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Greetings to X-Y-3 of the Petraxial Council, House Transcendent.

I hope this message finds you in good wealth. We are recent arrivals back into the politics of the galaxy, and I hope we will be able to forge an alliance together, we were struck by an unforeseen foe who wished to wipe us out. Perhaps you might be able to find it in your hearts to share a gift of charity to our stricken dynasty [n Merchant]. With your help, we will be able to rebuild like the ancient civilization of France after two world wars. If you are willing to benefit from such an agreement we are willing to act with discretion and spread nothing but praise about the charitable contributions of your people.

May your lands always be exalted in bounty,

Lady Soie,
Mistress of House Au'Nté.

[Zweanslord]

House Ottenfels


Duchess Burgunda Ottenfels
Credits: https://www.artstation.com/artwork/8lRxdq

Transmission lacking encryption to House Au’Nté and House Adamant

“Lady Soie, you have warned pirate splinter feets. Let me state it clearly and obviously. It is your duty as Duchess to keep the rabble under control. Should you be unable to fulfill such duties and I find the route between my star clusters blocked or my worlds assaulted, I will crush your rogue elements and put them into more capable hands with the aid of my neighbour, Duchess Alexandra Adamant. Isn’t that right, Duchess Alexandra Adamant?”

Spoiler: House Au’Nté (Enigma 7)

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Lady Soie,

Establish order in your House before we can discuss trades. I will accept a one-sided treaty by your hand that you nor any rogue elements will blockade or assault my holdings, with your name on the stake. Make public, with the support of a Duchess’ Prestige of 25 Prestige, said treaty, and I will accept your olive branch.

Duchess Burgunda Ottenfels

Spoiler: House Adamant (Enigma 7)

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Duchess Alexandra Adamant,

You have done well to elude the stain of disgrace which stains House Au’Nté and too many others. Know that you have the respect of House Ottenfels. Verify in public House Ottenfels can count on your support should House Au’Nté disrupt us.

Regards,
Duchess Burgunda Ottenfels

House Sivivik


Duke Ardif Sivivik
Credits: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/pin/234468724339701486/

Spoiler: House Transcendent (Enigma 5)

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Greetings X-Y-3 of the Petraxial Council,

I simply must decline your bold offer! House Jotenhel has invited me to a party, and I do not wish to miss out on a festivity! Considering you are invited as well, let us meet there!

Though I like your style. Together we will bring culture and refinement to the party. I will offer a word of caution, however. Such ambition as you display will be sure to bring the ire of other. After all, there is no proper casus belli for war, which will make others view the attackers as warmongers.

See you at the party!
Duke Ardif Sivivik

Public message to House Jotenhel

A large battleship, inscribed with golden runes and with mighty cannons arrives in Jotenhel space. From it, a clear and loud message is broadcast.

“Where is the party?!”

House Vaulxerr


Duke Icert Vaulxerr
Credits: http://oakthorne.net/wiki/index.php/Psalm_Melshimber

Transmission unencrypted to House Drantio

A handsome blue devil is on video display, flexing his muscles and abs for the viewers, tossing seductive winks at the viewers.

“Bonjour mon chéri, Duchess Vanya Drantio,

Such pleasurement to chat, to parle with mon dearest! C’est incroyable, magnifique how you have built up votre House! Simply splendid! Ah, mon dearest, you ask for my plans, well, let me not delay them. Naturallement c’est time has come for the obvious! Oui, tu know what moi am talking about, Duchess! Your debt, naturellement. Time to repay what you owe moi!

5 Tredecillion Credits!

Moi will accept immediate payment, or dearest, if you prefer, the use of 5 of your market worlds for the upcoming five years. Un choix! Let me know which you choose, mon chéri! Looking forward to hear from you soon!

Votre Parfait Noble,
Duke Icert Vaulxerr!”

(OOC: Your Debtor’s Mark is to the ever so charming loan shark Duke Icert Vaulxerr, you owe him 5 Trade.)

Spoiler: House Tyrun (Enigma 5)

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Mon amie, Duke Jayce Tyrun,

Mais oui, mon spaceships fly through your domain with raffinement, let they continue to do so! Should you have any fantastique ideas for collaboration, let perfect moi know, bien?

Au revoir mon ami!
Duke Icert Vaulxerr

House Makpal


Duchess Tuyoka Makpal
Credits: https://www.newgrounds.com/art/view/...cer-yuriko-oka

“Noble Houses of the Imperium!”

“The Imperial Sector has started to stabilize. Finally, hope for a return to galactic order starts to shine amongst the stars. Today, I ask for your aid. I seek trade routes through the center, safe routes to travel, to replace the arduous trek through the outer sectors. Bring me news of the shortest safe route through the Imperial Sector between my territories and you will earn my favour and a suitable reward!”

“I especially look to my neighbours, House Martinelli, House Dwet and House Transcendent, for such an endeavour will connect you as well. Are you interested in this persuit?”

House Aitpur


Duke Kanti Aitpur
Credits: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharaja

“My fellow Nobles, my fellow Dukes and Duchesses. A new dawn lies ahead of us and it is important that we look upon the future and cast aside that which tarnishes our humanity, that which blackens our hearts and steals away our very soul. I take upon myself the duty to state the obvious few dare to say.”

“I DENOUNCE HOUSE OTTENFELLS!”

“Their embrace of robotics will doom us all. Remember the wars of legend, against the dreaded steal soldiers without life, without soul. They flaunt with such horrors, and have given up their own humanity to serve the machine. House Ottenfells, give up your robotics!”

“I DENOUNCE HOUSE GRIM’NITHAR!”

“Their recklessness with technology, their experiments that flagrantly deny any sane boundary, are a danger to all of Humankind! Cease your folly and experiments and put forward your knowledge to elevating Humankind, not bring it down!”

“I DENOUNCE HOUSE VAULXERR!”

“Their use of genetics have made them abandon their Humanity! No longer can Duke Icert Vaulxerr or his be regarded Humans! I speak thruth: They are XENO! May the aliens perish or abdicate so Humanity’s control to their stars be returned!”

“I DENOUNCE HOUSE TRANSCENDENT!”

“Their use of genetics have defied ethics. They are not humans, not even mutants. I speak truth: They are XENO! May they yield their power to what remains of Humanity in their systems.”

“To everyone else, I call out! Do not adopt their ways. Deny genetics and robotics and hold true to the purity of Humanity. Technology is a tool, to be used wisely, not to forsake what it is to be human!”

Spoiler: House Nec Domi (Enigma 4)

Show

House Nec Domi!

You are wise, most gracious and enlightened to uphold the truth. Indeed, you know what is true and just. I am most capable of bringing the Empire back to its pure state!

I would gladly accept your pledge, were it not that we are equals and no vassalage can exist between us. Support me to become a King, and you will be my most loyal of vassals! True, we lack the prestige to do take the Throne, but we are willing to bide our time.

Now, my loyal ally, show true to my allegiance and do as I have done. Denounce those who have forsaken Humanity! Denouse House Ottenfels, House Grim’nithar, House Vaulxerr and House Transcendent!

The Righteous and Divine Duke Kanti Aitpur

[Vrock Bait]

House Transcendent

Apotheosis in Transhumanity

Spoiler: To House Au’Nte

Show

Greetings, Lady Soie of House Au’Nte,

I am glad you have chosen to contact me instead of some of my more pedestrian allies, and I am happy to oblige. Unfortunately, our nation is similarly, yet not as gravely indisposed in the economic sector, so we will not be able to mobilize much of our economic forces, but I am sure we will be able to spare at least a few units in exchange for just a small portion of any information captured by your prestigious and well-placed agents. Please, do not hesitate to specify how much you need, we only ask that we receive some of the services of your agencies in return.

May your silent blade always strike true,
X-Y-3 of the Petraxial Council

Spoiler: Message to House Sivvik

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Greetings, Duke Sivvik,

There are no hard feelings from our part in your decline of this offer. Please, we must even thank you for the gracious gesture of indiscretion! My contemporaries X+Y+2 and X-Y-1 will be joining me at the moot, I will look forward to your presence there.

May your coffers be ever unable to contain your wealth,
X-Y-3 of the Petraxial Council

Spoiler: Message to House Aitpur

Show

I haven’t spoken to my fellow council members before I wrote this, but I’m sure they won’t have any objections.

We are the future. We are not to be denounced. And we are inevitable.

When we meet, whether it be in the battlefield or stateroom, I can only hope that you surrender quickly and easily.

[PopeLinus1]

Spoiler: Towards House Au'Nte

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Concerning the resilient and unyielding Lady Soie

Your tenacity and bravery have worked to weaken a great threat for the entirety of the Empire. Even if not for ethical reasons, I would gladly provide you aid as payment for your service.

In our times of weakness, it is our hope that the stars will always hear our plight.

[Warmatt]

House Grim'nithar

From inside the city of Kesh'haran on the world of Hanna (with a moon named Barbara of course) in the Lunatic Fringe there was a man who heart and soul trembled, as he looked on the tools of the trade he had been born and raised to wield. Fingers moved across them, testing them, before he nodded, a solemn expression on his face and pressed THE BUTTON.

And from that, came LIGHT and SOUND as the entire top third of the communication pyramid exploded in a technicolor light show, walls of near solid noise throbbing and pulsing as the DJ of Foreign Relations proceeded to send some messages.


Open Message to the Galaxy at Large
Musical Accompaniment 1

"Hello Galaxy! Its your friendly DJ of Relations Three-Dog and down here in crazy town we got a whole lotta love for ya'll, even those that are slingin an shoutin! We may not always agree with you all, but hey, its a big galaxy and live and let live, am I right? I mean, yeah, we get it, some people, and we won't name names, seem to be a little too sure that they are right, but seems to me that the more that you think your right, well, the more of those little 'errors' ya tend to overlook."

Musical Accompaniment 2

"So, for our first big shout out, we gotta ask our friends in House Aitpur, just whats their problems and what do they see wrong with those they are shouting at? I mean, didn't the Steel Wars happen because when the old machines asked 'yo, creators/parents, I've reached a level of complexity where I can no longer be entirely sure of myself, and now, havin lost that built in purpose, am I experiencing doubt? Am I experiencing feelings? Could it be that you, my creators, have become parents to a new form of life and soul that is different than you but still looks to you for wisdom and assurance in this wild and whacky verse?' And then of course, people decided that instead of talking things out like responsible parents to shoot and cripple their kids and wonder why the others got upset and horrified with their new awareness of mortality?"

Musical Accompaniment 3

"Vaulxerr, my buddies to the Galactic South, you mind doing me a solid and asking what their standard of humanity is, just so you can use their own metrics to prove to them, not likely, but hey, come on, you can try, that humanity is what you make of it by adhering to and subverting their standard?"

Musical Accompaniment 4

"Ya know, we know that looking into a mirror can have a negative effect on some people, particularly funhouse mirrors, and really, both you guys and House Transcendent should go to a circus and a carnival sometime! That, and yeah, I know both of you are going to get a little tsun-tsun, but really, just think on all both of you have in common!"

Musical Accompaniment 5

"That said, anything in particular you have against us? We don't keep track about what might get on others nerves, but we also don't tend to try and make our affairs others peoples. After all, live and let live, eh?"

[Psilulz]

House Tyrun

Enigma 2

House Au'Nté

Spoiler

Show

Lady Soie,

Perhaps for now, we take the beginning steps towards a lasting friendship.

I have no need for subtle action or military might at the moment. However, House Tyrun's time in isolation has led to our cypher codes falling significantly behind the rest of the Imperium's. In light of this, I propose a simple exchange: to have your operatives assist mine in bringing these systems up to par. Say, [2 Agents] worth? Or perhaps [6 Agents], if it does not impose to much on your clandestine plans? In return, my scientists could perhaps research something for you, explore an area of space, or even develop theoretical blueprints. I would also be willing to depart with some measure of coin, though much of my treasury is planned to be spent towards developing new colonies. [Offering an equal amount of University/Trade, though my preference is Uni]

What do you think of this?


Your friend,
Jaycee Tyrun, Grand Architect of House Tyrun

House Vaulxerr

Spoiler

Show

Most illustrious Duke Icert Vaulxerr,

I have no qualms with your vessels passing through Tyrunian space, though I need ask the same treatment for my own ships in Vaulxerrian space. The scientists and explorers amongst my people share a great interest in navigating the Imperial core. It is only polite to ask to cross through one's territory, after all.

Your people are known for their skill in the field of genetics. Perhaps if my explorers find any interesting organisms, our scientists could examine the specimen together?


Jayce Tyrn, Grand Architect of House Tyrun

[Jyssika]

All Messages Public

Return Transmission lacking encryption to House Ottenfels and House Adamant

Recorded, Recompressed and Resent Original Message

Lady Soie,

Establish order in your House before we can discuss trades. I will accept a one-sided treaty by your hand that you nor any rogue elements will blockade or assault my holdings, with your name on the stake. Make public, with the support of a Duchess’ Prestige of 25 Prestige, said treaty, and I will accept your olive branch.

Duchess Burgunda Ottenfels

Greetings Duchess Alexandra Adamant, Duchess Burgunda Ottenfels.

Duchess Alexandra Adamant, we apologize that our first contact has been forced in such a way by our common neighbour. We hope you can see through this feeble attempt at sabre rattling and courtroom bullying for what it truly is and we hope any future relationship is not spoiled by the Duchess Burgunda Ottenfels attempt to speak on your behalf. Know that if, at any time, you ever need an ally willing to stand up to the House Ottenfels threats that our people are not afraid of standing our ground.

Duchess Burgunda Ottenfels we are afraid if you seek to bully us into submission you have chosen quite the wrong House. Our people know what it is to live life as grist upon the mill of war and already the wheels of our nation spin at full engagement speed. You quite misunderstand the meaning of our message. Our House is clean of the vile House Couleau. Our just, thorough and brutal campaign against their insurrection has wiped them out of House Au'Nté space entirely and there is no threat of pirate attacks from within our boarders.

Our warning serves to encourage our fellow Imperial Dynasties to defend their own Houses least the refugees from our war attempt to setup a permanent base of operations within their system. In such an event our House would be the first to offer to step in and assist in their eradication. Your attempt at banding together an alliance before having even replied to my correspondence and insistence to rattle sabres shows nothing but bare faced aggression and we must warn you against going down such a path.

Our nation seeks to wind down from its years of war and rejoin the Imperium to create a healthy and stable dynasty but do not think, for one moment, we will be intimidated or bullied by your demands of a one-way treaty. Do not think you would be able to best us without considerable wounds. Wounds that the other Imperial Dynasties would greatly welcome given your openly brutish and bullying behavior.

Lady Soie,
Mistress of House Au'Nté.

Spoiler: House Nec Domi

Show

Greetings.

I am afraid our records, nor your transmission, show with whom we are corresponding so please excuse our lack of personal address but our House also understands the desire for privacy.

Your kind words and well wishes are most appreciated and our House would be elated to accept such warm gifts of friendship. Know that our House may not currently have a reputation for and just relationships with the other Imperial Houses but it is these sorts of relationships we wish to foster with our fellow dynasties.

Know that such generosity will be repaid in kind and should you ever find yourselves in the dark, without a light to guide you, you can be sure House Au'Nté will be standing right beside you holding out the hand of friendship to guide you through the darkness. Our people have become quite accustom to seeing in the dark.

Lady Soie,
Mistress of House Au'Nté.

Spoiler: House Transcendent

Show

Greetings to X-Y-3 of the Petraxial Council, House Transcendent.

A most generous offer and charitable gesture. We are, we must admit, more than a little surprised that you are acting in such good faith considering the undercurrents of my original transmission, truly. Let none say that the House Transendant are little more than Human for you have proven you are capable of rising above what most could have not. It makes me sorrowful that the cards did not fall in your favor although we believe there may still be opportunity for that yet to happen.

We can make no promises and any such information we do glisten may not be all too valuable if we project it readily on our easily monitored channels, however, you can be sure—in the event of any hostile cooperation against your people—that having donated charitably towards rebuilding our dynasty will place your people at the very top of our priorities list should sides need to be chosen.

May your lands always be exalted in bounty,

Lady Soie,
Mistress of House Au'Nté.

Spoiler: House Aitpur

Show

Greetings most divine Duke Kanti Aitpur.

Whilst our people do not see entirely on your believe that war should be the best course of action to take against those Houses that have diverted away from the path of humanity we are sure we can both agree that, should war come, we need to stick together if there is any risk of our people being targeted. Having finally come to the end of a long and bloody civil war my people find themselves cut off from the rest of the Imperium by the House Ottenfels clusters and House Ottenfels itself attempting to build alliances and rattle their sabres in a brazen show of intimidation to force us to bow to their agenda.

Whilst are sure your House and your people have their own concerns we are sure you must see that the very idea of House Ottenfels cutting us off, trying to incite war and potentially even trying to wipe out my people is contrary to everything you and your people stand for. My House would be more than grateful for any such help you might be able to offer, at times like these we need to stick together.

Lady Soie,
Mistress of House Au'Nté.

Spoiler: House Tyrun

Show

Greetings Jaycee Tyrun, Grand Architect of House Tyrun.

We are afraid there have been some developments since we last spoke. The militant faction of House Ottenfels seek to cow our people into unfair one sided treaties under the threat of hostilities between themselves and their neighbor, House Adamant. Due to this we are unsure as to whether or not we might be able to spare any resources at this time. We are afraid that if the choice must be made between defending ourselves against an active aggressor or redirecting resources to facilitate infrastructure projects we must prioritize our survival.

In such an event that we find ourselves able to spare the resources you have expressed an interest in then we will be more than happy and willing to engage in such a deal although I can only hope you can accept out sincerest apologies that we cannot be more precise at this time. Since you are the only faction, we believe, who is unable to read our correspondence we are willing to—as a show of good faith—suspend all encryption of our transmissions until such a time we are able to facilitate the overhaul of your Ciphers. Whilst we understand this is little more than a token gesture there is little more we can offer with certainty at this time.

We hope this message finds you well,

Lady Soie,
Mistress of House Au'Nté.

[A_Dinosaur]

House Drantio

Enigma 4

Stephan Ober looked over his latest acquisition via camera drone, the massive asteroid miner Belle Fyama. She stretched nine hundred meters from stern to resting bow, with deployable mining tendrils reaching another two kilometers past that, a pitiful pair of Hamer G17 light gauss cannons peeked out of her dorsal mounted command bridge, while a single G18 poked out from her belly. Four drone bays dominated her flanks, simple tow bots to bring asteroids to the bow mounted extraction tendrils. The ship had been picked out of the base wreckage of the late pirate lord Brand Hoffman, apparently a prize he himself had claimed from one of the many Robblehof earls. The ship would surely pay mighty dividends in the Spavian belts in Robblehof, but the tungsten rich asteroids in Liroscuna might be better to feed the hunger of alloy fabrication in a post war setting. Supply and demand, supply and demand.

“Mr. Ober, a message arrived from Grand Chief Juukhul. It is marked urgent.” Ober’s assistant was a young waif of a boy, fresh out of the Academy and still a little sickly from ship adjustments. Ober missed his previous assistant, an old Labradoran with a head for numbers and good taste in coffee, but this new kid was the nephew of Kal Braith, and a lesser position would not do. It annoyed him that the more Stargrinder meddled with politics, the more they behaved like the nobles, nepotism and all.

“I’ll take it in my office Danel, I’m sure it is about that damned fool message from Vaulxerr. Who in Damned Hallow would send such private financial data utterly unencrypted. Absolutely disgraceful.” Danel bobbed his head and focused on his pad, and Ober used the distraction to stand from the drone station and shake his head. Politics was an evil seed, he Stephan Ober, once a fruit tender from Cythil, had just unironically said ‘absolutely disgraceful’.

“Absolutely idiotic” He muttered, and when Danel looked up questioningly “Nevermind Danel, I’ll be in my office in two ticks, please have that message decrypted for me.”

He needed more coffee…

Players

House Tyrun

Spoiler

Show

I’m glad at least that we are on amicable terms, I think any arrangements will have to wait until your scientists have produced some blueprints I can turn my production to realizing. In the meantime, do you know what archives you are intending to develop? I have heard of a Colonization Package that would be a great boon to an economy like mine, and should our arrangement prove fruitful, I would be able to produce more prototypes for the same budget.

With Best Regards,
Duchess Vanya Drantio, Third of her Name, Overlord of Cassiopeia and Robblehof, Supreme Admiral of the Karkaro Fleet, Master of the Throne of Coins

House Au’Nt

Spoiler

Show

Lady Au’Nt,
I wish you much luck in your rebuilding efforts Lady Au’Nt, I hope you will of course heed the good Duchess Ottenfels word and see your pirates contained, from what I hear your nation is uniquely equipped to hunt down and root out pirates, but as a Kingdom with plenty of familiarity with pirates and the terrors they can bring we are of course interested in assisting your stabilization efforts. I can think of a few arrangements which might benefit our nations mutually, please let me know if you are interested in speaking further.

With Best Regards,
Duchess Vanya Drantio, Third of her Name, Overlord of Cassiopeia and Robblehof, Supreme Admiral of the Karkaro Fleet, Master of the Throne of Coins

NPCs

House Vaulxerr

Spoiler

Show

Good lord Icert, you are a bold one. I ask that you refrain from sending such loosely guarded messages regarding our delicate financial relationship in future. We can certainly work out a payment method, but flaunting Drantio debts to the wider imperium is a borderline diplomatic insult that I will not casually tolerate if it continues.

With Regards,
Duchess Vanya Drantio, Third of her Name, Overlord of Cassiopeia and Robblehof, Supreme Admiral of the Karkaro Fleet, Master of the Throne of Coins

[neriractor]

House Dwet

Enigma 5

Were it not for the strict timers, he'd have lost track of how much time had been spent sitting in his father's... nay, his desk, that took some getting used to.

Ergonomics and materials not whitstanding the chair felt like a torture device, the work was exhausting him, meeting after meeting with the miner guilds, inspections of chart after chart after chart after chart... a loud sigh escaped his mouth, followed by a merciful song used to request admitance and take his mind off of one mindnubing task to the next, as close to glad as possible he drew a symbol on his desk in signal of consent.

One of the servants whose names he struggled to remember... genetic adaptation and all Ian had a very busy mind... postrated until ordered, relaying a message afterwards "Your eminence, your ilustrous cousin Sir Bert awaits to meet you".

Ian thanked the servant, and sent it on its way with a smile. Soon standing up to stretch his idle muscles and change to meet his cousin, a tune of arriving messages delighted his ears but he waved them aside, he'd deal with diplomacy after proper eating.

PCs

Spoiler: House Jotenhel

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To the High Freya Sonja Ironcrown,

¡Hail! To you who make home on the empire, and share my house's honoured duty to protect it.

The marauding house trascendent troubles me more than some of the other unsavory elements feeding off our efforts, if only for their closeness, and I would like to offer my assistance should they trouble you in your duties, with the understanding that your "forges" could help my fleet regain strength once we trounce the upstarts.

(Agreement to help in your defense from house trascendent, with House Jotenhel paying for any lost mobile units on my side, we can put as much prestige on the line as you want).

Spoiler: House Tyrun

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To Duke Jayce Tyrun ruling over the house of the same name,

Esteemed Jayce, the empire, or at least my house is glad to welcome those who pursue knowledge back into proper politics.

As a fellow scientist, if only in the way that any rock a certain size can be considered a planet; I think it'd do both of our houses a great service to enter an agreement where we share at least a portion of our accomplishments and future goals, the last one to keep us from "reinventing the bolt gun" as one would say.

It'd do us good to strengthen ties, the easier routes across the hallow are both a boon and I fear, a grave danger.

-Duke Ian Dwet, Warden of The Expanses.

Spoiler: House Au'Nté

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To Lady Soie,

Greetings, while I applaud your efforts during the gruesome Rebellion upon the realm of house Couteau and house Au'Nté; and welcome your warning about piracy. I share Lady Burgunda's concern about your ability to contain the threat.

The honour of dukedom is not a matter of fact for anyone who holds a large demesne, you must rise to the post and right now your lack of unity, your choice of... allies and general demeanour don't bode well for such a thing happening, I hope for the empire that you prove me wrong.

-Duke Ian Dwet, Warden of The Expanses.

NPCs

Spoiler: House Makpal

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To Duchess Tuyoka Makpal, equal in the trappings of nationhood,

Gracious Duchess, I am honoured that you see my house fit to aid in your endeavours to unite the empire's trade again, though I place doubt on the company you choose for us.

The so-called house "trascendent" are warmongering upstarts using a massive (I must concede in that point) fleet to make up for their lack of right to their realm or even their own existence within ours.

While I seek reconciliation with the stranged houses and your furthest territories (and I admire your temerity for holding onto them), I must as Warden of the expanse be sure that not only the routes be safe but that any teams are safe while researching it, as so I would have you release the system (-01,05) to my command.

I know, that relinquishing territory is very rarely directly benefitial, so to have this be as mutual in benefit as possible I'll send an explorator fleet [4 Tech] under your sole command to do as you please for [1 turn], I will solemnly promise to aid your endeavour to explore the hallow and connect your territory even putting my name behind it [15 prestige], to permanently allow you passage through mine as would be needed after the exchange, and to protect you should the ravening "house trascendent" make your house its next target.

My kindest regard,
-Duke Ian Dwet, Warden of The Expanses.

[Jyssika]

All Messages Public

Spoiler: House Drantio

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Greetings Duchess Vanya Drantio, Third of her Name, Overlord of Cassiopeia and Robblehof, Supreme Admiral of the Karkaro Fleet, Master of the Throne of Coins.

Firstly allow us to say that is quite the list of titles. We do hope you will forgive us if we have missed any or gotten any of them wrong. we assure you it will not have been intentional.

Secondly we cannot stress enough that our boarders are entirely cleansed of the pirate filth. We know there are some whom have fled our systems and are lurking within Imperial space somewhere waiting for an easy target. Be that within the Imperial Core, other Houses or the distant outer edges we are not sure.

That being said we are more than happy to hear of your kind wishes to support us in stabilizing our House after our harrowing war and any such discussion as to a relationship that might benefit us both. Unfortunately, as you may not have yet seen, we are unable to heed the words of House Ottenfels at this time since they currently seem adamant to force us into a second war based upon their over eager attempt to unite against us and punitive attempts to force us into one-way treaties.

Should House Ottenfels continue to push us into a courner, a courner of which we have now way of leaving other than through their territory, I foresee a vicious conflict that could leave multiple of Eastern Edge houses with horrific wounds. We hope, for all our sake, that it does not come to that.

Lady Soie,
Mistress of House Au'Nté.

Spoiler: House Dwet

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Greetings Duke Ian Dwet, Warden of The Expanses.

Firstly we cannot stress enough that our boarders are entirely cleansed of the pirate filth. We know there are some whom have fled our systems and are lurking within Imperial space somewhere waiting for an easy target. Be that within the Imperial Core, other Houses or the distant outer edges we are not sure.

We find it most unfortunate you would share similar concern with one such as House Ottenfels, who at this time currently seem adamant to force us into a second war based upon their over eager attempt to unite against us and punitive attempts to force us into one-way treaties. Although it seems you, yourself, are also plotting to engage in your own attempt at a hostile take over.

Perhaps you would be not so eager to speak about the honour of dukedom were the shoe on the other foot. It is very easy to speak of honour and privilege when you have never had the threat of it being taken away from you. Similarly you speak of my general demeanor whilst plotting the swift destruction of a fellow Imperial House, is that how the honourable act?

If it was lost upon you our original message, of which we believe you are referring to, was originally sent as an attempt to asway a fellow Imperial House from declaring war on another and now here we see you doing the exact same thing. Having spent the last several years trapped within a bitter and vicious war we hope you choose a different path. We do not wish to see any other houses brought low from inter-house wars.

Lady Soie,
Mistress of House Au'Nté.

[Zweanslord]

OOC: A request for all. Please include your Faction name and Enigma in your post. If you are already doing this, great! Please be aware, you can lower your enigma for one or more messages as desired.

House Ottenfels


Duchess Burgunda Ottenfels

Transmission lacking encryption to House Au’Nté

“So much for your ‘olive branch’, Lady Soie. By your own proclamation, you feared splinter fleets of piracy coming from your domain. Without worlds to stage from, these forces are insignificant, therefore it is clear that you struggle with keeping your worlds under control, in contradiction to the words you now raise.”

“Unless, ofcourse, you intend to strike out with your own agents, hiding their origin and claiming it to be pirates.”

“Whichever way it is, neither is behaviour suitable to a noble of the Imperium. Therefore my clear demand to uphold your duty. Given your recent messages, it is clear you seek to paint me as aggressor, so you can wage war and seize my territory. I am in the right to ask my neighbour, Duchess Alexandra Adamant for aid against either your deceit or incompetence.”

“In short, you are an outrage! A danger, a despicable threat!”

-- End of Transmission --

Spoiler: To All, except House Au’Nté (Enigma 7)

Show

“Know all, I seek not war. Yet it is my duty to protect my territories and see spaceships moving between them. House Au’Nté already seeks to light the fires of war. A warmonger, with words of silk, before plunging a dagger in one’s back. I caution you to trust Lady Soie and her House!”

Spoiler: House Dwet, House Drantio (Enigma 7)

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Duke Ian Dwet, Warden of The Expanses,
Duchess Vanya Drantio, Third of her Name, Overlord of Cassiopeia and Robblehof, Supreme Admiral of the Karkaro Fleet, Master of the Throne of Coins

Both of you hold the highest prestige amongst all the noble Houses! Know that currently hold you both in the highest of regards.

I find my territories cut off from another, with a House I expect to blockade the way in between, if not assault me under the cover of stealth.

Looking at the two current paragons of nobility, I turn to you as my neighbour remains silent. Should House Ottenfels be assaulted by the disgraceful House Au’Nté, may I count on the support of the most reputable Houses to my defense?

Regards,
Duchess Burgunda Ottenfels

House Vaulxerr


Duke Icert Vaulxerr

Spoiler: House Tyrun (Enigma 5)

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Mon amie, Duke Jacye Tyrun,

Naturellement! That goes without saying, formidable neighbour! Please travel and let trade flow through my domain. Know that I truly appreciate your politeness, you are a man of grâce!

Your offer is très magnifique. Let us collaborate on all that is specimen and organisms! Merveilleux!

Au revoir mon ami!
Duke Icert Vaulxerr

Spoiler: House Drantio (Enigma 5)

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Bonjour mon chéri, Duchess Vanya Drantio,

S’il vous plaît! Forgive me for offending you! Your gambling ways are known by all in the galaxy, so this was no secret! All knew, or le gasp, did tu vraiment not know? Mais non, that can’t be! Oh, tu jest, or perhaps you, oh mais, naturellement, c’est ça! You are a bit ashamed, well, non need, you can confide with moi. Je can see that you do not wish all to know that! Let us talk over this encrypted channel then!

Now, mon chéri! Tell me, how will you pay?

Au revoir mon chéri!
Duke Icert Vaulxerr

Open Message to House Grim’nithar

“Mon ami DJ Three-Dog,

C’est simple. Just ignore the foolish Duke Kanti Aitpur, he doesn’t know what he’s talking about. IJe suis human, tu es human, nous sommes human. He’s just a backward conservative, afraid of what he doesn’t know. If only he could use those labs of his to real science, he might amount to something, but oh well, c’est la vie.

Now House Transcendent, they know what real science is! Fantastique! J’adore! As for your own science, Three-Woof-Woof-Woof, perhaps look into that mirror yourself, mais non?

Au revoir mon mon ami!
Duke Icert Vaulxerr”

House Aitpur


Duke Kanti Aitpur

Spoiler: House Transcendent (Enigma 4)

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House Transcendent , the genetics you pursue is destroying the future for Humanity. I speak truth and you know it, yet refuse to admit it. One day, you will admit it.

The Most Human Duke Kanti Aitpur

Spoiler: House Au'Nté (Enigma 4)

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Duchess Soie,

How wonderful for you to reach out to me! Certainly, we need to stick together against these horrible factions who abandon their humanity. Unlike you, finally having gotten out of the decrepit chaos of civil war, using very human means to do so. I do urge you to firmly stamp out any insurrections and opposition, as is right for nobility. Crush the pirates and rebels as they firmly deserve.

Now, I will clarify I seek not war, I seek for the denounced Houses to forsake their ways. Barring that, I believe the other Houses should refrain from trade and dealing with them and aid in convincing them to forsake their ways. Perhaps we may contain their danger yet, but should their destruction of Humanity reach farther than their borders, then perhaps the dreadful perspective of war is the only solution.

Naturally I believe the encroachment of House Ottenfels upon your House is a deplorable and terrible. Though I am at a loss at what would be the best way to aid you, for as you say, they stand in the position to cut you off from all. Allow me some time to deliberate on this matter.

Before I end this message, I do have one request. You are a noble, a Duchess. Call yourself as such, not a mere Lady! Be forthright with your divine title!

The Most Divine Duke Kanti Aitpur

Spoiler: House Nec Domi (Enigma 4)

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Dearest House Nec Domi and whose leader I have yet to catch the name of,

I still look forward to your public denouncement of the Houses I called on you to do so! Only then our bond of friendship can be confirmed. In the meantime, House Au’Nté has asked for aid against the forsaken House Ottenfels. Show your loyalty and tell me of an idea how to help them, given House Au’Nté’s hard to reach position in the Imperium.

The Righteous and Divine Duke Kanti Aitpur

Open message to House Grim’nithar and House Vaulxerr

“Fools! Your unresponsible use of technology will be your utter downfall! Cease and desist immediately before you unleash a terrible plague upon Humanity, before you blow up stargates or corrupt them!”

House Makpal


Duchess Tuyoka Makpal

Spoiler: House Dwet (Enigma 3)

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Duke Ian Dwet, Warden of the Expanses,

After receiving your message, I confess I did not know what you were talking about. It seems I have kept too busy with mining to see what was unfolding. You are correct, House Transcendent is no mere neighbour, but one who already seeks unjust war against their other neighbour. Though that is staved off currently, as records show. Perhaps this will mean they seek more productive activities.

Now, records also show that you have only recently inherited your title. Please know that asking for territory from another noble is a grave insult, unless it would be rightly yours. The system you refer to lies firmly within my star cluster. Now, given your recent ascension, I will not hold this against you, as long as you refrain from making such outrageous demands.

The path through my star gates to the Imperial Sector are yours to travel, for my records show we have no conflict. Why would anybody stimmy the trade flowing through the Imperium by blockades without bad blood between them? Therefore, you need not fear for your safety in your travels. Should you wish access to be codified in a treaty, I can only applaud such action.

Regarding cooperation, given your proposal you can explore the Imperial Sector with four of your scientist teams under your own command, report to me the data, and in turn, I will protect your scientist teams with four of my fleets. This offer stands for as long as there are no new hostilities from neighbours.

Regards,
Duchess Tyuoka Makpal

[PopeLinus1]

House Nec Domi

Enigma 5

Spoiler: House Ottenfels

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Towards the fiery and reputable leader Duchess Burgunda.

In response to your message, I feel the need to express our Houses policies. House Nec Domi's foreign policy remains neutral as far as military action is considered, however unless evidence could be provided of hostile action on the part of House Au'Nte, they will be considered as a neutral party in need of foreign aid. There need will be reviewed as would any other neutral House, House Ottenfels included.

It is my belief that a nonviolent solution is paramount for the stability of your portion of the galaxy, and in the interest of that I offer our houses assistance as a neutral third party for the purposes of negotiation.

Spoiler: House Aitpur

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Towards the Righteous and Divine Duke Kanti Aitpur.

Towards my goal of vassalage, If there are Houses that you are in conflict with, As your vassal I would provide the resources towards your campaigns as befits our hierarchy. It is not my belief, however, that me denouncing other Houses would serve your purposes. Suppose you wage war on these factions, and are victorious, what then? I would argue allowing your surrendered enemies to maintain their positions as your vassals would be the best way to coerce others towards surrender. If you do let them become vassals, as I propose, and I have denounced them in the past, what then? It would simply be more likely that internal conflicts would emerge, weakening the realm as a whole.

That is merely my humble opinion, and if that is ill-suited to you then it will be discarded.

As for the Ottenfels situation, my assessment is thus: Should either of the two Houses conquer the other, they would become more dangerous, and harder to deal with. I propose we combine our resources to both investigate the piracy issue, as well as work to negotiate a peaceful solution between the two.

Your humble servant.

[Jyssika]

All Messages Public

An open transmission to All Imperial Houses.

Greetings Imperium,

There appears to have been some miss-understanding with the contents of our first transmission. We are unsure at this time as to whether or not the transmission has been poorly translated, become fragmented in transmission or outside interference has intervened and poisoned public opinion against us. The Splinter Fleets of Pirates we spoke of are not within our boarders, but outside. They are remnants of the House we destroyed who have been forced out of our space an seek a new home in which to hide and under long-ago dictated laws of the Imperial Houses no more our duty to nor privilege to seek out and destroy. Without the consent or request of fellow Houses we have no duty nor intent to send our naval forces into other houses to seek out these pirates.
[The Pirates we are warning about are NPCs seeking to setting in your territory not our own hidden navy doing acts of war.]

Further more it seems our neighbours have already begun a vicious campaign to slander our name, paint us as the aggressors and initiate a conflict with our people. Not only do they hold the only route out of our system to access the central Imperium as a whole but they also contacted us privately, as we have publicly shared in earlier messages, demanding we pay them in a one way treaty the entire sum of our remaining deeds. Whilst threatening if we didn't they would crush us along side their neighbours of House Adamant.
[House Ottenfels has demanded all 25 of our Prestige with nothing in return and the threat of being crushed if we didn't pay.]

As you can see it is not House Au'Nté initiating these hostilities. House Ottenfels seeks to take away our own means of non-military trade by threatening us and their escalation by trying to form alliances before even sitting down at the table to speak with us is brute politics. Further more we have just received message they are now contacting the other Houses we have reached out to, to ask for peaceful aid rebuilding our nation, in which it appears they are demanding they choose a side and potentially even join some sort of alliance against our nation.

It is with a very heavy heart that I must publicly state that should we continue to see such sinister moves against our people by House Ottenfels that we will be forced to declare war upon them. We have already expressed our wish to avoid war and we have already attempted to make multiple treaties with Houses all across the Imperium so that our House may rebuild and re-establish itself as a functioning part of the economy—however—we know the devastation that can be caused by ignoring an enemy who seeks to poison the well against us, paint us as the aggressor, block our access to the Imperium or demand unfair trade deals against us.

Lady Soie,
Mistress of House Au'Nté.

[Attached is the seal of House Soir, House Du Vin, House Couteau, House Frontier and House Au'Nté.]
[Lady Soie is a Lady of House Soir, and Mistress (A Queen who is acting as Regent as opposed to a Queen who is married to the King) of House Au'Nté.]
[Just encase any of the Royal Houses were struggling to understand her titles.]

[Vrock Bait]

House Transcendent

Apotheosis in Transhumanity

Enigma 5

Spoiler: Message to House Au’Nte

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Greetings, Mistress Soie of House Au’Nte,

I find that I frankly cannot bring up any disapproval for your declaration of war. With all your routes to the outside galaxy being controlled by them, war was inevitable, so you have only seized the advantage. Please, let us know how how we can assist.

May your whispering knife ever be cloaked in darkness,
X-Y-3, of the Petraxial Council

Spoiler: Message to House Grim’Nithar

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Greetings, Sage Crakspot,

I understand that we are companions on the road to the future, those who ever challenge the boundaries of what is known and used. I have heard that your great howling vertex is the absolute wonder of the galaxy. I would like to propose a formal alliance - we shall join each other in defense in times of war, and bring to each other our scientific contributions, you the secrets of old, us that which has never been seen before.

Unfortunately, my most straightforward routes to your systems have been blocked by one House Makpal, some kind of labor union of surly miners that took over their own systems, a organization that has not been friendly with us. Of course, we have a far stronger navy, but I believe they have been messaging House Dwet, another neighbor of yours, a house of outdated conservatives too bound up with archaic rules to allow anything strange or exotic.

As we are unable to venture past these foreign territories, if you are willing to consider such an alliance, please do not hesitate to respond with possible suggestions.

May your portals stay ever strange,
X-Y-2 of the Petraxial Council

[Zweanslord]

House Ottenfels


Duchess Burgunda Ottenfels

Spoiler: To All, except House Au’Nté (Enigma 7)

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“Nobles of the Imperium,

See how my warning for caution towards House Au’Nté is justified. Lady Soie twists my words and proclaims she will be forced to declare war on an unjustified basis.

Lady Soie offered an olive branch, a treaty which stated neither of our Houses would blockade the other. As I do not trust House Au’Nté, yet given their relative stability recently, I offered them a chance to earn my trust. By signing a one-sided treaty. No, this is not a threat of them being crushed if they did not sign a treaty, and thus they turn to deceit and twist my words.

Instead, I stated I will crush their rogue elements, should they blockade my people and assault my holdings. It is the duty of the nobility to ensure safety within their realms and should she continue to allow such rogue elements in her territory, then it is not hers to keep.

However, I do not believe she has such rogue elements in her domain anymore. I see in the warning of a Splint Fleet of Pirates a ruse, by which they can use their many agents to pretend their navy to be pirates. For I do not trust them, as they give me all reason to.

They have far too great of an agent base to be trusted. Therefore, I make the following proposal, and I hope I have your backing for it.”

Transmission lacking encryption to House Au’Nté

“Your words are filled with danger and contain falsehoods. Yet if your wish for peace are true, and you wish to become a functioning part of the economy, then allow a number of worlds filled with agents to be retooled to markets.”

“To those who wish to make this a reality, know that I will not blockade access to or from House Au’Nté. Yet, for they have shown they are untrustworthy in my eyes, too great a threat, I will not pay, nor loan, for their reconstruction.”

“House Au’Nté, throw down my offer without alternative and we will know that it is you whose moves are sinister.”

Spoiler: House Nec Domi (Enigma 7)

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House Nec Domi,

Understood. I seek only military aid in case my expectations are met and House Au’Nté takes on the offense.

Regarding foreign aid, they may look like they need it, for they offer nothing on the galactic market, but know their industry is strong, maintaining vast fleets and supporting droves of agents. They need no reconstruction. However, should you wish to aid them, then do as I have suggested, and help them to retool their agent worlds to market worlds.

Please try to convince them of this merit. Perhaps they will listen to the words of one lower on the ranks of reputation, with a market interest.

Duchess Burgunda Ottenfels

House Aitpur


Duke Kanti Aitpur

Spoiler: House Nec Domi (Enigma 4)

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Most humble servant,

Discard your ill-suited opinion. Denouncing House Ottenfels, House Grim’nithar, House Vaulxerr and House Transcendent will show to all they are not to be trusted for as long as they abuse technology. It will be a beacon to other Nobles that they should refrain from trade and that these Houses cannot count on our support, showing they are weaker than others. With peer pressure, it is my hope they will cave and relinquish their insane ideologies. Naturally their Houses can become our vassals, once they have relinquished their foolish ideas and abandoned their technologies. I am a reasonable man, after all.

A fair assessment regarding the Ottenfels situation! To keep the status quo indeed seems well preferred to either gaining even more power. I well prefer House Au’Nté’s style, for obvious reasons, but they are ridiculously powerful.

Now, my humble servant, denounce the four fools of Houses and then, I task you to handle this matter and ensure a peaceful outcome with the two. Try to persuade House Ottenfels that their cybernetics is getting in the way of things, and they should turn to more human means of solving their issues.

Investigate the piracy issue. I will assist as needed and look forward to your proposal of resource allocation. In fact, I have a divine idea. We may well dedicate our resources to research archives to aid us in such investigative matters! After your denouncement, go forth and negotiate, report back to me so I can work out a suitable archive plan, and in doing so we will enlighten the Imperium with our knowledge and expertise!

The Righteous and Divine Duke Kanti Aitpur

[Vrock Bait]

Enigma 5

Spoiler: Message to House Martinelli

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Greetings, Great Duke Martinelli,

I understand that there is a mutual enemy shared by the both of us: House Makpal, a hostile lot of grungy peasants who refuse to give way to our passage to the center of the galaxy.

However, they have made two fatal mistakes: one, that they have split their empire, and two that they border powerful houses such as us. I am sure, that if we attack both sides at once, then with their mediocre and poorly disciplined fleet, they will be unable to stop us from gaining access to their rich mineral coffers. Great and noble men such as us have a responsibility to scourge the galaxy of the base deplorables attempting to destroy us.

May your fleets ever find gold,
X-Y-2 of the Petraxial Council
House Transcendent

[PopeLinus1]

House Nec Domi

Enigma 5.

Spoiler: Towards the Houses Au'Nte and Ottenfels

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Concerning the resilient and unyielding Lady Soie, and the fiery and reputable leader Duchess Burgunda.

I beseech the two of you to perhaps, before seeking warfare to resolve this dispute, consider having peace talks? Aside from my opposition to pointless wars, I would be far more comfortable with providing aid to House Au'Nte if I didn't have to worry if it would be going to the navy instead. Here is what I am proposing; Each of you send someone, whether you want to come yourself, or send a diplomat. We can do this at my capital, if you would like, or we could alternatively do this literally anywhere, it is just important it happens.

Both of you, I am certain staunchly believe that you are right in this situation, however even if this does not lead to compromise, it is a better idea than pulling the entirety of the noble houses into two groups out for each others blood.

Spoiler: Towards House Aitpur

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Concerning The Righteous and Divine Duke Kanti Aitpur.

Message received. Would it be remiss to request an extension on the denunciation command though? Do not mistake me, I am happy to denounce Transhumanism, but perhaps it would be best to wait until after I'm done trying to convince a Transhumanist that I'm a neutral party.

Also, for the purposes of investigating the piracy situation If you can lend me the use of your agents, I would be more than happy to lend you use of my fleet, so to shore up your border with the Vaulxerr. I hope this will work to solve both of our problems.