This Wasn't In the Diplomacy Handbook!
Posted on Tue Jun 9th, 2026 @ 1:39pm by Lonian Royal Sovereignty & Legate Andrinn Orin & Major Mattias Richardson [Reece] & Captain Joshua Young [Taylor]
Mission:
Season 6: Episode 7: Crossroads of Destiny
Location: Niea IV :: Pomei
Timeline: MD4
4056 words - 8.1 OF Standard Post Measure
Emeyr had a bit of a hop in her step as she readied the meeting room for another day with the diplomatic team. She was assisting Meev in placing beverages around the table, remembering what everyone had liked last time. Today was a follow-up, because she wanted to be sure these fascinating individuals could get their repairs done so they could continue on their journey.
A smile was on her face as she remembered the lengthy discussion she and Relou had over these aliens. To have the Distant Life theory be proven true livened up Relou's side of things. Her people were going over whatever information the Elysium had shared, and there was so much to go through. It had been a while since she last saw that spark of passion in her colleague's eye.
Phyans had greeted the diplomatic team like he had before and escorted them through the diplomatic building like before. The only difference from last time was that the checkpoint was gone, as it was only in place during the protest a couple days prior. "The list of unique phrases was truly a delight to read, Legate," he complimented. "It is fascinating how your peoples use words of one meaning to convey something different."
"That's what Mr. Teevs told me a while back. He was especially intrigued by the Human phrase of 'Butterflies in your stomach.' Definitely no butterflies in the stomach. That's why I started that little database, so that I could even figure out what some sayings of other species and cultures might be and how they tie into their everyday life. So, I'm glad that you enjoyed it," Orin said, offering up a small smile.
"Ah, yes, your notes had mentioned that the insectoids were not real," Phyans nodded with a chuckle. "That database 'made its rounds' within Emeyr's and Relou's courts, if I'm using the phrase correctly."
Orin genuinely chuckled as he replied, "Had to make a special note of that, so that nobody would think someone swallowed a poor butterfly or something!"
The group entered the diplomatic meeting room, causing Emeyr to turn. "The lunch yesterday was truly delightful, Legate! It was a wonderful proposal, and I am grateful that your commodore was so inviting," she commented with a smile, before waving them in. "Please, make yourselves comfortable! How are your vessel's repairs progressing?"
"They're coming along rather nicely! Thanks to your entire worlds' hospitality! Without your help, the repairs would have taken a bit longer and I'm sure we would have gone through way more than we have thus far. So, we appreciate it. As for the luncheon, I'm glad that you guys have enjoyed it. Was there anything that you enjoyed the most?" Orin asked.
"Oh, we loved seeing so much diversity on your ship," Emeyr commented warmly. "Vessels in this area of space tend to be pretty homogenous, so it was fascinating and perhaps refreshing to see so many different species in a formal setting. I for one took notes on how the space was arranged; it was very inviting, and it gave me ideas for future conversations."
"Back about 250-300 of our years, that was truly the case cause alot of us were just starting to explore our little parts of our galaxy. Then, we started to meet one another. Started the Federation from those fragile first steps. Then, we've had so much happen since then and now, we're here," Orin said as he thought about the first steps that even his own species made over the last 400 years or so. Both Trill and El-Aurian.
Emeyr smiled at Orin as he recollected. "Maybe one day, we can accomplish here what your peoples have accomplished over many lifetimes. But, I wanted to follow up with the repairs. Please," she gestured for them to sit as she took her own seat. "Do you have enough supplies for your journey?"
"Maybe, you can join the Federation or make a Federation of your own one day," Orin offered with a small smile as he adjusted a PADD in his hand. Once he heard the questions about supplies, he said, "Well, we've made a small list to see if there was anything that you guys might be able to help us out with. Minor stuff, hopefully, but much needed nonetheless. We've got on ship places where we can grow a lot of food, but the rest has to replicated or come from somewhere. Here's the list of what we could use from highest to lowest priority."
Orin handed the PADD over to Lady Emeyr.
Emeyr accepted the PADD and read through it, slowly nodding. "I think we can work something out..." Whatever else she was going to add trailed off when the doors to the room opened.
The first to enter was Lady Sama, her black hair pulled back and mostly hidden under the hood of a floor-length dark blue cloak that shimmered in a way that made it seem like it was made of energy. Her blue-grey suit accented what was visible of her body from beneath the cloak, while still providing sufficient freedom to move. Armor was woven into the design, and a faint aura covered the skin exposed between her collar and the ornate, v-shaped collar necklace, almost like some kind of shielding for the exposed skin. Just above her forehead ridge, a decorative piece of jewelry rested on her forehead, the other end following the part in her hair and disappearing under the hood. Her hands were loosely laced together in front of her, the pads of her index fingers touching. Her stride exuded an air of purpose.
Behind her, two guards followed. They were dressed like Emeyr's guard, but with the addition of a helmet that currently just framed the face. It was obvious that a face shield could be activated if needed. Resting on their shoulders were the straps to their weapons, which were pointed at the floor for safety and kept from swinging around with a stabilising hand. Contrary to their Lady, their strides were rigid, as if ready to defend their House at a given moment. Upon seeing the protection officers, their postures shifted only slightly, a clear sign that the protection officers were being watched.
From his position, Mattias's finely-honed senses changed from their underlying ferling of caution, to definite warning. He made a subtle move closer to Orin, ready to grab his charge and yank the man to safety, if necessary. In his mind, he was already planning several moves ahead, guessing where his opponents would move and how, and how he would counter. His body tightened up, like a spring ready to burst loose. All he needed was one indication of danger.
Pausing, Emeyr turned toward the newcomers. “Oh…! Lady Sama! I haven’t missed our appointment, have I?” It was rare to see Sama outside of the Defense Building, so it was surprising and perhaps a little concerning to see her here, especially with two of her guards. Usually one was sufficient in a government building.
Sama’s expression was serious as she eyed the Elysium guests that Emeyr was talking to. Seeing the protection officers tense up, she extended a single unwasted gesture toward her guards, silently telling them to stay by the door. The last thing she wanted was a brawl in Emeyr's diplomatic space; that would not be well-received in their upcoming chamber session. Turning to her fellow Lady, she gave a slight bow of her head in greeting. “No, Lady Emeyr, you haven’t. I was hoping to ask our guests a couple of questions… provided you don’t mind the intrusion.”
“I... suppose,” Emeyr answered, extending a hand toward her guests. Sama expressing interest in guests was unheard of. Something was going on if she felt she had to interrupt negotiations. Nervously, she glanced at her guard, who gave an unknowing shrug in response.
Orin gave the tradition greeting that he was shown for the dignitaries of the planet.
Cold, blue eyes turned back toward the team, taking a moment to study the aliens. Sama’s expression was collected, conveying nothing about her intentions. “I wish we were meeting under better circumstances. I did not foresee your ship’s presence complicating my already busy schedule.” Tilting her chin up ever-so-slightly, she asked, “the Lonian who arrived on your vessel, Teevs Dosivi. What do you know about him?”
"Gosh! From what I think I remember, I think he as a merchant that left the Lonian homeworld to explore the galaxy. I'd have to double check the whole story, but I think that gets us at least started. Might I ask why you're asking about Teevs? Did he...do something?" Orin asked, scratching his head as he was thinking what this could be pertaining to.
Josh had been silent for the entire conversation, preferring to be seen and not heard as he observed the Lonian. His face a careful construction, a mask of showing no reaction to hearing Teevs name brought into the conversation by Lady Sama. His attention heightened, Josh was keen to hear Sama's explanation and Orin's reply to the rather specific question.
“My consul informed me that he has committed an act of treason against our people. Some of your crew have chosen to ally themselves with him, and have been detained for security reasons." Sama paused just long enough to let that sink in. "I'm sure you understand how concerning this is, which is why I wanted to personally deliver this unfortunate news. Surely, this was not the impression your people intended to make here."
Emeyr took a step forward to object to the accusatory tone, but was stopped by her guard. “Lady Sama! We are in the midst of negotiations! This is completely-!” Her voice died in her throat when a stern gaze shot her way. She wanted to object further, to remind Sama that she needed council approval to disrupt a diplomatic meeting, but was almost afraid to. Her hands were tight fists, and she looked to the vassal who had stopped her, but keeping her Lady from interfering was the extent of what she was willing to do.
Hearing that members of the crew had been arrested was the last piece that fell into place for Mattias. He gave Josh a silent signal, as he stepped forward and placed himself in front of Orin guarding him with his body. "I think it's time to go, Sir!" He said aloud as he watched the Lonian guards begin to react to unheard orders, moving toward the Elysium guests.
Receiving Mattias's silent signal, Josh moved as unobtrusively as possible and took a position at the rear of the diplomatic delegation with them sandwiched between Mattias and himself. "Ambassador." he said softly to Josephine, We need to move back to the ship." His voice calm but firm. He bristled at Lady Sama's statement about some of the Elysium crew being arrested but said nothing as he watched Mattias.
Mattias stayed perfectly still, though his eyes seemed to take in everything around him. He was ready to strike if provoked in the slightest. However, he would not act until there was no other choice, or Orin ordered him to do so.
"Stand. Down." Sama told her guards, her gaze shifting abruptly to them. While she remained collected, there was an undertone of annoyance in her tone as the two security details seemed to rile each other up. The royal guards, the ones she hand-picked, knew better than to instigate, at least prematurely. She would deal with them later. "If your detail could contain themselves," she began, turning her attention back to Orin, "I'm just trying to do my job. You are not from this world, so our laws state that your vessel may request for transfer to your facilities, provided they are appropriately reprimanded for their violations.”
"I'm not sorry to say this, but that's a wild accusation. I'm sure that even in your world and culture, one doesn't simply make such accusations without proof. Where we come from, we take things seriously and don't accuse whole groups of people of almost being co-conspirators of some unknown plot. For now, I think I need to get back to my ship to confer with my commanding officer before we do anything else. I request that any and ALL information be sent over to our ship because again, we go on fact. Not conjecture or speculation. If you'll excuse me," Orin said as he looked towards Mattias and Josh. He leaned in and said, "Get us out of here before they start deciding to take us into custody."
"If a crime were committed on your vessel, would you not detain suspects?" Sama countered. Her guards were still at the door, though their presence began to feel more like an obstacle to walking out rather than a mere security detail. "For security purposes, records cannot be just handed out. You can access them from the defense building archives."
That made Emeyr annoyed. She pushed past her guard to put herself between the diplomatic team and Sama. There was the fear of potential retaliation making her heart race, but in the moment she didn't care. "Lady Sama, this is unacceptable!" She exclaimed, her tone firm.
Sama narrowed her eyes at her colleague. "This is none of your concern."
Emeyr matched the condescending look with a glare of her own. "Anything that happens in this chamber is my concern. That includes unapproved disruptions to diplomatic proceedings. You have no right to disturb this space!"
Sama glared at Emeyr for a couple more seconds before looking past her to Orin. She wasn’t going to entertain this tantrum. "We have evidence of the crime committed. The sooner your people decide to cooperate with the investigation, the sooner this can be resolved." While her expression remained firmly collected, her tone left just enough ambiguity behind her words.
Orin looked at Mattias and Josh for a moment and huddle in close, so that nobody could hear them. "What are we thinking? Maybe Mattias, you can go with them and Josh can stay behind to keep me company? I think we need to see wahtever the evidence that they have against Teevs and help us figure what's going on. I'm not going to let them take anyone, including Teevs. He's basically one of us. Mind....just going to check it out for me?" Orin asked of Mattias to see what he would say.
Josh looked between Mattias and Orin before whispering savagely. "We're thinking that this crazy and it is beyond a wild accusation sir. They're making statements about Teevs and him committing an act treason and we aren't seeing any evidence. This is all wrong any way you look at it. They are sneaking around and arresting members of the crew. They are hiding something as they certainly aren't working with us in a spirit of cooperation." Josh answered trying to be as diplomatic as possible.
Mattias thought about it for a moment, then nodded. "Alright, Sir. However, I want your ass back on Elysium where it is at least safer than being down here. Respectfully, Sir." The warrior wasn't mincing words, however, he was still trying to do his job.
"I trust your instincts, Major. But, right now? We stick together as much as possible. I'm not letting them take anyone else from the crew or families from us. Why do you think I'm sending you to look this over and having Josh keep an eye out on my pretty Trill behind. Give me your type-1 and if stuff hits the fan, we all call for emergency transport out," Orin said hushed, knowing that leaving could also be seen as a form of guilt to these people. "Listen, I know it's your job to save my behind. You guys are doing it here and now. Me? I'm trying to make sure the connections we've been building don't crumble in two seconds because of....someone's political ambitions."
Mattias didn't like the idea of Orin syaying on the planet, but, he could appreciate what the diplomat was trying to do. Finally, he nodded. "Alright. You stay here with Josh then," he raised a warning finger to the Chief Diplomatic Officer. "He says di di mao, then you go without complaint!" He then looked over at Josh and added, "You don't hear from me in twenty minutes, get everyone back to the ship, even if you gotta blow a hole in the wall and run back."
Josh listened to Mattias and his orders. While he didn't like the idea of leaving his friend and mentor he understood the reasons. "Yes sir." He finally said after a few seconds. "Twenty minutes." he repeated.
"Hey! I'll take 20 minutes Major. Go and find out what in the world is going on?" Orin replied as he looked over at Mattias.
Once both men acknowledged Mattias's words, he turned and faced Sama, careful to keep some semblance of respect by not looking directly in hers eyes. "Please take me to see our people, Ma'am."
With a single nod, Sama led the way out of the room, one guard following close behind while the other waited for Mattias to go first.
Mattias fell into step with the shorter guards. His training quickly identified the way they were escorting him, one in the front and one behind, bracketing him. He was thinking about how things could go sideways, when the group turned down a long hall, which held two more guards dressed in the same armor as the first two with Sama.
Before he could recognize the threat for what it was, the two new guards shot him with tazer-like projectiles, attempting to stun him. His armor took most of the electrical charge, but enough go through to get his attention. As he stumbled back, the guard behind him thought to put Mattias in an arm bar. That was the mistake that the warrior needed.
Roaring full of combat rage, Mattias threw a vicious elbow backwards, crushing the left cheek bone and nose of the guard attempting to hold him, dropping him out of the fight instantly. As he got his arm free, the other three guards were upon him, grappling and punching, doing everything their training taught them to do to subdue a larger, stronger opponent. Mattias almost felt some admiration for them.
Almost.
He pressed his attack back towards them, kicking the knee joint of one the completely wrong way, then shattering the right collarbone and shoulder of the next one as he struck, spun and hurled the man towards the nearest wall, with a loud crunch.
Sama narrowed her eyes as she took enough steps to get clear of the scuffle. "Security to my position," she said into the communicator strapped to her wrist.
More guards suddenly appeared via transport, and the tide started to turn on Mattias. Three more electroshocks struck home, his armor finally failing, and he went rigid from the electricity coursing through his body. Once he was down, the surviving guards descended upon him, beating and kicking him viciously. They were determined to get their pounds of flesh from him for what he did to their colleagues.
"Enough." Sama's voice didn't need to be loud to be heard by her guards. She picked these soldiers and honed their skills because they were loyal to her, and she knew that they wouldn't dare to disobey her. Out of the corner of her eye, she watched guards help up the injured, but her focus was on this nuisance as several guards held him down.
One guard, a female, turned toward Lady Sama. "General, you saw what he did-!"
"I have eyes, Sub-Lieutenant," Sama replied, venom in her tone. Her gaze flickered briefly back in the direction of the diplomatic chamber before she looked down on Mattias. "You are either bold or stupid to attack a sovereign on government grounds." Of course, she knew that wasn't what happened, but it gave her probable cause and she wanted this problem out of the public eye. "Either way, it was a mistake." To her guards, she told them to get him out of here.
Mattias looked up at the smug woman and simply spit out some blood in her general direction. Though his body was battered somewhat -the Lonians, though smaller, fid manage to pack a bit of a punch when they were angry...and outnumbered you- his mind was still very clear. He knew, without a doubt that once Phee found out what had happened here...well, Lady Sama would soon learn just who she was dealing with.
Within only a couple seconds, Mattias and the guards were gone in a transporter beam. Sama took in a slow breath before continuing toward the defense building. "Solne, tell Koral I want hourly updates on the new admittance, and draw up assault charges," she spoke into her communicator again. At least it was an easy case.
"Of course, Your Grace," came a woman's reply.
Once Lady Sama left, a heavy silence filled Lady Emeyr’s office. It took a couple of seconds for her to find her voice again. "I… I deeply apologise for that. I’ve never… I’ve never seen Lady Sama do that before. It was out of line, she knows better than to disturb the negotiating space like that.” The implications of what happened continued to seed unease in her, and she looked at the diplomatic team. “If your people have been detained… Phyans!”
The consul stepped forward, still clearly shaken by what happened. “Yes, your Grace?”
“Please get them whatever they may need to get their people back,” Emeyr instructed. Phyans nodded, and Emeyr turned her attention back to Orin and the others. Her expression was deeply apologetic and almost ashamed of what just happened. “I am terribly sorry that this was how your visit here went. I hope you will accept the help of my consul, and please let me know if there is anything I can do to remedy this and preserve our relationship.”
Orin looked at Lady Emeyr and said, "No! You're totally fine. But, I would like to figure out what's going on and maybe get back to some of the other people on the world, if that's even possible right now? Or are we all being detained right now?"
Emeyr was quick to shake her head, and even held up her hands. "No, no! You're not detained. You've done nothing wrong." She glared at the door Sama exited, as if she were standing there. "This room is probably the closest thing we have to a sacred space, and Lady Sama's intrusion was... well, unsanctioned is the polite term. You are protected here, Legate, I promise you that, but if you think it is best to return to your people, then do what you must."
"Well, I think it might be best to check in with my people too. Make sure everything is okay with them and to gather our thoughts for a moment. I'm sorry that not only we're being dragged into this, but you as well Lady Emeyr. Is there anything else you needed from me before I head out and check on everyone?" Orin asked Lady Emeyr.
"I should be the one apologising, Legate. It was my colleague who disrupted our conversation," Emeyr responded. She offered a faint smile, one that was still heavily apologetic but also grateful for his understanding. "I may reach out to you for a written statement of what happened here, but I won't know for sure until after the chamber session in a few hours. If there is anything I can do for you, you know how to reach me. And Phyans will be in touch."
"Yeah, I'll see about trying to reach out after we find out more about what's going on. But, the same to you. If you think about anything else or have any questions, just send it up to the ship," Andrinn said before giving the traditional bow and walking out of the chambers with Josh towards the rest of the away teams.
