All The Moving Parts

Posted on Mon Jun 16th, 2025 @ 9:58pm by Admiral S'iraa

1,088 words; about a 5 minute read

Mission: Let That Be Your Last
Location: Guest Rooms - Tri Nation Chambers of Deliberations.
Timeline: Post Meeting

S'iraa was escorted to his quarters, which were, for all intents and purposes, minimalistic in style. It contained only the basics and little more, but it served its purpose for what S'iraa required, even if comfort was a rare indulgence. He had contemplated reaching out to the ship for some luxuries but ultimately chose not to, fearing it might offend those he aimed to assist.

The previous meeting weighed heavily on his thoughts as he recognized that while the desire for peace existed, not everyone was equally dedicated to the concept, allowing history to cloud their objectives.

From his observations, he noted that certain factions wielded more influence over historical narratives, yet he also perceived that some were more victims than aggressors. It was a delicate predicament, as he understood that any action could provoke someone while maintaining a neutral stance.

Additionally, he pondered another troubling thought that contradicted the natural inclination towards a hopeful resolution... what if not everyone was eager for peace?

The records provided by the three officials depicted distinct perspectives, with each party blaming the others. While it was evident who initiated and concluded the war, it remained ambiguous who genuinely sought to establish true peace. S'iraa gazed out the window as the rain pelted against it, the droplets cascading down in streaks repeatedly. Suddenly, the door chime rang.

"Come." When there was no response, he recalled that he needed to press the button next to the door for it to open. "Chancellor Vixothor," S'iraa acknowledged the slightly taller figure, gazing into the red and yellow eyes of the somewhat intimidating diplomat. "Is there something I can assist you with?" S'iraa continued, maintaining a tone of respect.

"May we have a conversation?" Vixothor inquired.

S'iraa stepped aside, allowing Vixothor to enter before he joined him at the window. "Is there something troubling you, Chancellor?"

"You are... a predator by nature?"

"Indeed," S'iraa confirmed.

"How do your people maintain their strength?"

S'iraa took a moment to ponder his response. "Our culture, particularly our upbringing and training from infancy, is designed to sharpen our skills, our ability to serve, and to protect others, especially our females. The training is rigorous, and injuries or even fatalities can occur," S'iraa explained.

"When a male of my kind finds a Mate, a partner, or someone with whom we form a bond, she is taken to a mountain peak that overlooks our home. There, the male must navigate the Path of Proving to demonstrate his worthiness to her, the value she perceives in him. Along this path, there are dangers and traps; other males will attempt to hinder him, not to claim her for themselves, but to illustrate the challenges and risks that may arise. If he reaches the cliff where she stands, he must ascend the sheer face using only his claws; if he falls, it is certain death. We remain strong because it is a necessity; our duty does not cease as we grow older, and our females are equally capable and formidable, so strength is not solely defined by gender. Chancellor, strength manifests in various forms; while conflict is one measure, it is merely one of many. Strength can also be about presenting oneself as invulnerable or too costly to challenge."

"A position of strength based on perception is not true strength."

"However, averting conflict without resorting to violence is," S'iraa countered.

His response caused Chancellor Vixothor to reflect.

"If I may, could I inquire about the origins of the war?" S'iraa asked.

Vixothor began recounting the tale of a deteriorating economic society, where the culture was stagnant, political inaction prevailed, and internal conflicts raged. It was during this turmoil that a leader emerged, vowing to restore the species to its former greatness, to reclaim what had been lost both collectively and individually. He elaborated on how border tensions had been repeatedly tested, yet previous leaders allowed the situation to fester in the name of peace. Rumors also circulated about the testing of biological weapons on captives from our own people. A new leadership aimed to confront these issues head-on, even if it meant using force.

"In the early days of our conquests, we advanced deep into enemy territory, seizing crucial strategic points, infrastructure, and population hubs. However, that was when our adversary turned to science as a weapon against us. Our brute strength was undermined by technologies that rendered our offensive capabilities ineffective. Nevertheless, we pressed on, utilizing captured weaponry and even our bare hands to secure victories. We made gains in some regions while suffering losses in others. Eventually, after a prolonged stalemate where neither side could gain the upper hand, the war came to a close. Minister Ith'ix, as you witnessed in your initial meeting with us, illustrated this point well."

S'iraa recalled that meeting vividly; the Minister was fervent in her delivery, emphasizing the staggering death toll.

To conclude a war by unleashing a weapon of massive destructive power had been used in the past in many cultures to end conflict. "Following the conclusion of the conflict, the leadership was ousted after investigations uncovered corruption and unlawful activities. Our military suffered significant losses during the war, leaving us with little choice but to seek peace and rectify the wrongs that had been committed." Vixothor elaborated. "Although the war had strengthened our unity as a nation, along with our economy and values, it required immense effort to prevent losing them again once the peace treaty was signed. Neither side claimed victory, nor did either side accept defeat."

"As you witnessed in your initial meeting, tensions are still palpable, and there is plenty of blame to distribute. However, as a planet, we cannot afford to engage in another war. The previous conflict has rendered vast regions uninhabitable and unsuitable for cultivation due to the destruction and lingering effects. This is the reason you were invited to facilitate a peace that can finally alleviate tensions and channel energy into constructive endeavors." Vixothor concluded.

The meeting wrapped up shortly after, with Vixothor departing and S'iraa left with much to ponder. He understood that this task would not be straightforward; peace negotiations rarely are, but he was determined to make an effort. =^= Admiral S'iraa to Dreadnought, I request a comprehensive topographical map of the planet, highlighting all areas affected by radiation or life-threatening consequences from the war. I aim to present the triad with possible solutions or countermeasures to these issues. =^=

S'iraa recognized the need for resources; solutions to the current challenges might still provide him with some.

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