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<div style="font-size:162%; border:2px solid #dca200; margin:0; background:#29870e; padding:.1em; color:#fff;">New Blades, Old Wounds</div>
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{{Template:2024 Event Timeline}}
<div style="font-size:110%; border:2px solid #dca200; margin:0; background:#29870e; padding:.1em; color:#fff;">This is the overview and timeline page for the '''New Blades, Old Wounds''' Arc which began on '''April 20, 2024''' and pertains largely to '''[[Unathi]] and [[Skrell]] lore.'''</div>
<div style="font-size:110%; border:2px solid #dca200; margin:0; background:#29870e; padding:.1em; color:#fff;">It is centered around the relationship between the [[Izweski Hegemony]] and the [[Nralakk Federation]], and their joint humanitarian efforts on the planet [[Moghes]].</div>
<div style="font-size:110%; border:2px solid #dca200; margin:0; background:#29870e; padding:.1em; color:#fff;">Below is a summary of the arc's applicable news articles, and additions.</div>


==Pre-Hegemonic Unathi==
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=Hegemon Announces Talks With Skrell!=
'''News Article'''


===The Nomadic Era===
'''Publisher: Sinta Articles'''
The ancient Unathi were believed to be primarily organised into nomadic hunter-gatherer societies, largely consisting of small clans following large herds of threshbeasts across the savannahs of [[Moghes]]. The earliest signs of permanent settlement date back to around 12500 BCE, as larger clans began to migrate towards the shores of the Moghresian Sea - developing primitive forms of aquaculture and animal husbandry to sustain their settlements. This is around where the earliest signs of faith resembling modern [[Unathi_Religion#Th'akh|Th’akh]] begin to emerge, with ancient shrines believed to be dedicated to various spirits having been unearthed by Izweski archaeologists.


===The Warring Cities Era===
'''Writer: RustingWithYou'''
The transition from nomadic to settled life was a slow one - as many of the ancient proto-clans would frequently wage wars over the bountiful food supplies of the early settlements. Eventually, however, the populations of these early settlements would swell faster than their rival clans could dream of, leading to rapid growth and progress - development of writing, metalwork and more advanced shipbuilding techniques drove the settlements around the Moghresian Sea into some of the first cities of Moghes. The earliest currencies began to develop during this period, with dried and salted fish forming the backbone of these ancient economies.


Other Unathi civilisations would arise during this period, known as the Warring Cities Era by modern historians. The ancient city of Darakath, in what is now the [[Broken Coalition]], is believed to have been first settled around this time, and some of the oldest historical sites in the [[Tza Prairie]] are believed to have been built by exiles from the city-states of the Moghresian Sea.
'''Editors: Triogenix'''


For centuries, the regions now known as the [[Southlands]] and [[Izweski Heartland]] were ruled over by collections of city-states, each ruled by a single clan. As these states clashed with each other for territory and resources, the Unathi martial culture began to develop. Though there would be periods where one city-state dominated the rest, none of these ancient attempts at empire lasted long. While some historical documents refer to “The League of Nine Cities”, as a persistent presence in the region, archaeological evidence indicates that this was more of a temporary alliance, designed to deal with invading forces crossing the [[Zazalai Mountains]].
20/04/2466


The Warring Cities Era is generally considered to have ended around 920 CE, with the rise of the First Hegemony.
''"Awake, dear heart, awake."''<br>
-The Tempest, Act I Scene II


===The Sinta'Mador===
Hegemon Not'zar reaches out to the Nralakk Federation, hoping that [[Change on the Horizon Arc|recent upheavals]] will allow old grudges to be laid to rest.
There is one culture of particular note among the pre-Hegemonic civilisations of Moghes - the fabled Sinta’Mador. While much of their history is steeped in superstition and mysticism, modern scientists have made a study of the ancient culture of the Moghresian North Pole - though this has been frequently undermined by the efforts of [[Aut'akh|Aut’akh]] cultists, who often steal Mador relics and artefacts for religious purposes.
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Factually, the Sinta’Mador are known to have been a culture that dwelled in the north polar region of Moghes, between the early Warring Cities Era and the rise of the First Hegemony. While it is unclear if the Sinta’Mador were a genetically distinct species to the Sinta’Unathi, or simply a name for a different culture, they were at the very least close relatives of the wider Unathi species. Very little reference can be found to the Mador in contemporary records, though some scraps of ancient poetry from the Tza Prairie do refer to “the children of Travakh”, and “corpse-scaled devils" - referred to as a somewhat mythical race of beings in the uninhabitable north, who brought cold and death in their wake. Whether this referred to some long-forgotten war with the ancient Sinta’Mador, or is simply a mythologised retelling of a particularly deadly cold season, remains unclear.
In a surprising announcement from Skalamar today, Hegemon Not’zar Izweski announced that he intends to hold a diplomatic summit with the Nralakk Federation, which will be led by High Speaker Seleta Sarnac. The office of the High Speaker followed up on this, stating that Hegemon Not’zar understands that there is a long and often-troubled history between Sinta and Skrell, and he hopes that the two nations can enter into a more prosperous relationship in future.  


The Mador settlements were largely built around volcanic hot springs, which are believed to have been used as a primitive heat source. While the reason for the extinction of the Mador remains uncertain, the common theory is a period of global cooling on Moghes rendered the land beyond their cities uninhabitable, leading to a slow death for their inhabitants. Many of the ancient Mador cities which have been explored showed signs of impressive technological advancement for the time - some of the oldest steel tools and weapons in Sinta history have been found in the polar region, and some of the largest settlements seemed to have developed elaborate heating systems using the local hot springs. The Mador treatment of the dead is also noteworthy - corpses would seemingly have a piece of volcanic glass inserted in a primitive surgery, placed behind the eyes prior to their burial. This is believed to have been a way of preventing a restless spirit from possessing their old body, though due to the lack of translated Mador writing it is impossible to be sure.
The talks are set to take place on Ouerea, in several weeks’ time. Many have speculated as to the Hegemon’s choice to invite the Skrell delegation to Ouerea rather than Moghes - while some believe it is simply due to the planet’s large Skrell population, others believe that the Hegemon intends to call the Skrell to account for the planet’s occupation during the Contact War.


The Mador have taken on a somewhat mythical status among followers of the Aut’akh faith, with the researcher [[Notable_Unathi#Emzal_Paossini,_Creator_of_Paradigms|Emzal Paossini]] having attributed many of the foundational principles of Aut’akh to ancient Mador rituals. This has led to stories spreading across the Spur, treating the Mador as everything from ancient and mystical sages to a race of cybernetically-enhanced demigods possessing technology beyond that of the modern Spur. While some Aut’akh, most notably Paossini themself, have actually made a study of the Mador, to most followers of the faith this ancient culture is little more than a distorted myth.
The Skrell delegation’s agenda, as well as who their representative will be, remains to be seen. The office of the High Speaker confirmed to us this morning, however, that the Nralakk Federation has accepted the Hegemon’s invitation. Their envoys will likely be en route to Uueoa-Esa already, and many wait apprehensively to see what the Federation hopes to get from these talks.


==The First Hegemony==
Some among the nobility have been outspoken against the Hegemon’s decision, however - with many protesting the inviting of Skrell to Izweski space, blaming them for everything from the Ouerean Rebellion to the Contact War itself. Perhaps the most outspoken of these was Lord Juyzi Izaku of Mudki, who invited representatives of Sinta Articles to a press conference in the city to issue his statement.
''“You ask of me, o mighty, who comes hence?''<br>
''Know, and tremble, for I am''<br>
''Hegemon Eternal,''<br>
''Master of all beneath the Mother’s eye.”''<br>
''-Spear-Shattering King, an ancient [[Torn Cities|Kopesk]] poem describing the rise of the First Hegemony''


The First Hegemony, also known as the Kres’ha’nor Hegemony, arose around 920 CE. While records are sparse from this time period, the Kres’ha’nor are believed to have been a minor noble dynasty originating in what is modern-day Baandr, who rose to power and conquered several of their rival city-states. The War of the First Hegemony, as modern historians have named it, lasted nearly a century, as the once-independent city-states of the Moghresian Sea were absorbed under the banner of the Kres’ha’nor.  
Lord Izaku was certainly passionate on the matter, claiming that ''"The Skrell, they get inside a man’s thoughts, to twist his mind and strip his honor! You see them, small and weak as they are, and you think they are harmless, but they can manipulate your very spirit - look at the slaughter on Ouerea, barely more than five years ago! It was driven by them, twisting innocent Sinta to anarchy and murder, and now the Hegemon wishes to treat with them? He must be careful, lest he find himself dancing on their vile and twisted strings.”''


Around 1014 CE, the reigning King [[Notable_Unathi#Tryazali_Kres'ha'nor|Tryazali Kres’ha’nor]] addressed a group known as “The High Twelve of Sskel”. Sskel was known to be a powerful nation of the time, though its location is unknown as all recovered literature from the period seems to assume knowledge of its location as something that would be obvious to any reader. As such, who the High Twelve were or where this conversation took place is entirely unknown to modern historians.  
While the Lord of Mudki is certainly the most outspoken, he is not the only one of the nobility to object to these talks. Several among the nobility have petitioned the Hegemon to turn away from this plan, citing the occupation of Ouerea and subsequent rebellion as proof that the Skrell cannot be trusted to negotiate in good faith.


Kres’ha’nor is believed to have proclaimed the First Hegemony at this time, though accounts of this event are limited and often dating several centuries after the fact. The most well-preserved source, a Kopesk poem called Spear-Shattering King, quotes Tryazali  Kres’ha’nor as proclaiming himself “Hegemon Eternal, master of all lands beneath the Mother’s eye”. Under his reign, the precursor to modern feudalism would come about, with many of the current titles of Unathi nobility dating back to the Kres’ha’nor Hegemony.
We at Sinta Articles hope for a resolution that is beneficial to the Hegemony and its people. As always, we shall keep our readers updated on these talks as they develop.


The Kres’ha’nor came to rule a vast empire, controlling the modern Izweski Heartland, Southlands and much of what has now become the Northern Wasteland. With a population of around twelve million and mass production of steel armor and weaponry, the Kres’ha’nor were the undisputed power of the ancient world.
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This dynasty would last for nearly five hundred years, until the reign of Hegemon Kresshi Kres’ha’nor. Hegemon Kresshi was known as a brilliant military commander, who waged highly successful wars against nations now lost to time. Mention is made in historical sources of “the conquest of the black-eyed Jazir” and “the raiders of the western shore”, but the specific nature of these peoples has been lost to time. He is recorded to have ruled from Kres’ha, a city that is frequently mentioned as the capital of the First Hegemony. The location of Kres’ha is unknown, with several claims to have found its ruins all having been disproven.
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=Ormish Jrolk Departs For Alien Stars=
'''News Article'''


Kresshi also sired many children, who fought against one another almost immediately upon his death. The empire was shattered into warring factions, each supporting one of the many claimants to the throne. Kres’ha is believed to have been burned during this period, which would last for decades, and outlive all of the original claimants. Some apocryphal sources refer to this time as “The War of Eight Tyrants” - though this number is frequently disputed among modern historians.
'''Publisher: Warble Enquirer'''


By the time the war ended, the First Hegemony was irreparably broken, fractured into dozens of smaller kingdoms. Several of these kings would call themselves Hegemons, but the title quickly fell out of use, as it spoke of ambitions of conquest. Moghes would remain divided, with no one daring to claim rulership of the world, for centuries. This period of divided kingdoms is when the modern [[Unathi_Religion#Sk'akh|Sk’akh Church]] was formed, though the religion had existed in various forms for an uncertain amount of time prior. Fragments of ancient church records indicate that at one point, the Church ruled much of the Heartland directly, prior to an event only referred to as “The Apostate’s War”.
'''Writer: RustingWithYou'''


===Growth of Guilds===
'''Editors: Triogenix, Brotendo'''
[[Unathi Guilds|The guild system]] began to emerge after the fall of the Kres’ha’nor, among merchants who saw the need for mutually beneficial relationships among the fractured and frequently warring kingdoms. Guilds formed for bakers, butchers, grocers, millers, smiths, carpenters, weavers, mason, shoemakers - nearly every trade had its own guild. Standards such as just weights and measures evolved from the guilds, and guild inspectors would inspect shops to ensure rules were being followed. Guilds would help members that were sick or otherwise endangered, and would sometimes take care of families after the member died.


Apprenticeship was how most started in a particular trade, which they would follow the rest of their lives. After completing an apprenticeship, the appropriate guild would examine his work and see if he could be elevated to a Craftsman. A Craftsman was required to create a "masterpiece" in the presence of judges to be elevated to Master status, which would allow him to join the leadership of his guild.
26/04/2466


Guilds also built and ran the first universities on Moghes, the first known being the University of Ma'ha'rem which opened in 1602. Originally trade schools, they slowly expanded to become centers of learning for apprentices of every field. A doctor would have to first become a "Master" through a university to be allowed to practice his trade within towns or cities controlled by a guild of doctors, and the same for any other brand of skilled work. A Master's certificate also distinguished someone as a professional with few peers, giving their holders immense prestige and trust. A fully accredited and certified doctor on Moghes would be (and are still) known as a Master Doctor. Typically they are known as [Rank] [Craft], so you can also be a Master Weaponsmith or Master Engineer.
''“Misery acquaints a man with strange bedfellows.”''<br>
-The Tempest, Act II Scene II


Eventually these guilds managed to form powerful monopolies and they spread their trade and influence across Moghes. Most of the landed elite feared the growth of the guilds, who were creating a new middle class of urban workers. That a peasant could rise to gain prestige and vast wealth with no land, titles, or martial victories under their belt was an idea bewildering and frustrating. The late 1600s and the beginning of the 1700s saw many kingdoms across Moghes cracking down on the power of guilds, stripping them of privileges or banning craftsmen from meeting in groups. Other nations ruthlessly suppressed private enterprise. Many laws were passed that strictly limited how many members a guild could possess, as well as requiring all craftsmen to register with their local lords before being allowed to sell any goods or services.
The Federation's representative departs for Ouerea.
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Guilds also developed another innovation: minting and issuing coinage. Because it was rather difficult to do large transactions with giant piles of dehydrated fish, the first guilds in the 1600s began minting coins made of steel that would be backed by that amount of fish, similar to bank notes. They could be turned in, theoretically, at any time for an equivalent amount of salted fish. This saw Moghes begin to gravitate away from measuring wealth by fish stocks, and towards a more familiar economy, though the Fish Standard remained for quite some time.
Grand Advisor of Economic Development Ormish Jrolk has announced their temporary departure from Federation space today - leading a delegation to the planet Ouerea, a warm and hospitable world currently under the rule of the Izweski Hegemony. The ruler of the Hegemony, Hegemon Not’zar Izweski, extended formal invitations to the Nralakk Federation to send a delegation to Ouerea, in the hopes of laying to rest past hostilities between Unathi and Skrell.  


==The Second Hegemony==
The Unathi, for those of our readers who are not aware, rapidly descended into global nuclear warfare following first contact with the Federation and the Solarian Alliance - during which a delegation of Federation diplomats was sent in the hopes of brokering peace between the two warring sides, and preventing needless loss of life. These delegates were murdered, their shuttle shot down by the group known as the ‘Traditionalist Coalition’ (Unrelated to the Homeworld Traditionalist Coalition party), a radical collection of Unathi micro-states opposed to further dealings with the Federation and humanity.
''“It is such a wretched thing, this business of empire.”''<br>
''-Ayzi Sarakus, immediately following the Siege of Skalamar''


The 1800s marked a period of rapid technological development on Moghes, as the Ras’iks clan of S’th began producing steam engines. This advancement was rapidly adopted by some of the guilds, though many saw it as a useless curiosity or a threat to their established market. However, it would be the beginning of an industrial revolution for the Unathi people - the consequences of which would lead to the rise of the Second Hegemony.
Since that day, the Federation has had little contact with the Unathi - though for several decades, Federation officials administrated the colony on Ouerea, due to the Hegemon’s inability to do so during wartime. Following the end of what the Unathi have come to call the ‘Contact War’, the Federation graciously returned control of Ouerea to the Unathi, though a substantial Skrell population remains on the planet.  


The cities of the Heartland rapidly industrialised, as the ruling clans of the region began to grasp the possibility of this new age of invention. The Heartland’s skies were choked black with the smoke of factories and forges, but the divided kingdoms of the region meant that technological advancement was slow to spread. Each of the region’s monarchs wished for the benefits of new technology, but none wished to allow their rivals to gain an advantage from it. Several wars marred the region in the 1800s, as mass production had made gunpowder weapons more than a noble’s amusing curiosity. Early firearms, cannons and explosives are all reported to have been developed around this time.  
Reportedly, the delegation was approved with an overwhelming majority by the Grand Council, with only the Homeworld Traditionalist Coalition voting against. Coalition leader Overseer Nalo Gir-Roq referred to the delegation as “a mistake” during an address to the Council, claiming that for the Federation to involve ourselves further in the affairs of the Spur at large only serves to weaken our position on the interstellar stage. The Coalition was thoroughly outvoted, however, with all other parties standing in favor of the Ouerean talks. Grand Advisor Jrolk and the Federalist League cited the dangers of pirate and Marauder activity on the Federation’s southern border, claiming that forming stronger ties to the nations of the Sparring Sea is a proactive measure to ensure our national security against such threats in future - while voices from the Free Skrell Union cited establishing further connections to Hephaestus Industries as a key reason for building diplomatic ties to the Hegemony.


Rapid industrialisation also led to another war - this one, among the guilds. To many of the existing guilds, industrialisation was a threat to their power - skilled craftsmen would find themselves displaced and out of work, thanks to the introduction of factories and growth of unskilled labour. Others thought to embrace this new upheaval, changing nearly their entire business models to ride the industrial revolution to riches. Conflict between guilds is mentioned in records from the period, with some cities having devolved to guild members actively fighting in the streets. Several modern guilds have their roots in this period, including the Fishing League and Junzi Electric.  
The talks are scheduled to begin in several weeks' time. Questions of whether these talks will lead to future involvement in Unathi affairs, or further connection with alien nations, remain unanswered for now - though the Federation watches eagerly to see what will come of the Ouerean summit.


The industrial revolution was well and truly underway by the time the Second Hegemony rose. In 1916, the Sarakus Clan rose to power, following a brutal war among the industrialised nations. Seizing control of the wealthy Southlands and Heartland regions, the Sarakus rapidly launched a campaign of bloody conquest against their neighbours. In 1922, this war finally came to an end as the reigning Queen of Skalamar surrendered to the Sarakus forces. Following his victory, King Azyi Sarakus did what no other had done in centuries, proclaiming himself Hegemon of Moghes. The Sarakus took rapid advantage of industrialisation, using technological advances across the nation to enrich themselves and their loyal vassals. Private guilds were outlawed, and their resources brought under Hegemonic control - though in practice, many of the guilds continued to operate as before, just reporting to a state official instead of a Guildmaster. The Sarakus leased out titles to factories, mines and other enterprises, transforming many of the former leaders among guilds into lords of the realm - allowing the nobility to keep control over unskilled labour, just as they had prior to industrialisation.
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===The Great Endeavor===
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''“Progress is a wild hegeranzi. You ride it to glory, or you are trampled beneath its hooves.”''<br>
=Nralakk Delegation Arrives, Talks Begin=
''-Apocryphal quote, often attributed to Azyi Sarakus''
'''News Article'''


In 1931, Ayzi Sarakus proclaimed the ‘Great Endeavour’ - a massive effort to modernise the entirety of the Hegemony. As part of the Endeavour, electricity would become widespread throughout Sarakus territory, road and railroad networks would connect every city in the empire, and radio coverage would expand across nearly the entire world.
'''Publisher: Sinta Articles'''


The Great Endeavour took twenty years, and Ayzi Sarakus would not live to see its conclusion. The project was finished with a grand opening of the Sarakus Castle in Skalamar, having been outfitted with modern plumbing, electricity, and every luxury the new age could afford. By the time the project was done, Moghes had been transformed, with even lands outside the Hegemony having begun to adopt the advances of the Sarakus - though to a much lesser degree.
'''Writer: RustingWithYou'''


The Sarakus were ruthless in this project, however - with much of traditional Unathi society having been uprooted as advancements in factories meant that skilled labour became less and less valuable. While they had brought the Hegemony into a new age, many whispered that it had come at the price of the nation’s soul. To others, however, it was a golden age - a time of opportunity and advancement. Many of the great scientific institutions of Moghes were established following the Great Endeavour, and Unathi understanding of the world around them progressed immensely. But, like many golden ages, it would come to a sudden and violent end.
'''Editors: Triogenix'''


==The Third Hegemony==
30/04/2466
''“You ask by what right I call myself Hegemon? The only right that matters. Come and challenge it, if you can.”''<br>
''-Lord Neeziah Izweski, marking the beginning of the War of the Honored Alliance.''


In 1994, a group referred to by contemporary sources as the Traitor Lords seized Sarakus Castle, wiping out nearly the entire clan in a single night. Surviving Sarakus across Moghes were killed, many of them before news of the coup even spread beyond Skalamar. Before the blood was even cleaned from the throne, the Traitor Lords crowned Lord Neeziah Izweski as the new Hegemon, and proclaimed the birth of the [[Izweski Nation|Third Hegemony]].
''“Yet, with my nobler reason 'gainst my fury''<br>
''Do I take part; the rarer action is''<br>
''In virtue than in vengeance.”''<br>
-The Tempest, Act V Scene I


Here is where records differ enormously. The modern Izweski account of history refers to the reigning Hegemon Sarakus as a bloody-clawed tyrant, who was driving the nation to ruin. Historical pro-Izweski accounts refer similarly to Sarakus as a cruel and sadistic tyrant, with some claiming that he performed unnatural rituals to summon dark spirits upon his enemies. Though the Sk’akh Church claims that their High Priest at the time could tell the Izweski were the rightful rulers of Moghes, fragmented records claim that a brutal and secret civil war was fought among the Archpriests, with the pro-Izweski faction eventually achieving victory.
The talks on Ouerea begin, and speculation abounds on what each side hopes to gain.
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Regardless, many Sarakus vassals refused to accept this, rising in rebellion against the Izweski. These lords called themselves the Honoured Alliance, and immediately began a brutal civil war. The War of the Honoured Alliance would last for nearly a hundred years, and would see the birth of modern Unathi warfare - widespread use of ballistic weaponry and early armoured vehicles marked the battlefield, and the first Unathi aircraft were developed and deployed to rain death upon the battlefields. It was, for centuries, regarded as the most devastating war in Unathi history.
The delegation from the distant Nralakk Federation has arrived, entering the Uueoa-Esa system early this morning before landing on Ouerea properly. Led by Ormish Jrolk, their ‘Grand Advisor of Economic Development’ - a role similar to a Master of Rivers - the delegation was promptly shown to a hotel in New Skalamar’s Founding District, where the talks are set to take place.


Eventually, in 2079, the Izweski and the Honoured Alliance signed a cease-fire - neither side was capable of effectively waging war any longer. Nearly all the lands east of the Zazalai Mountains were aligned with the Honoured Alliance, while the Izweski secured their grip on the regions surrounding the Moghresian Sea. The Honoured Alliance would eventually divide into its own kingdoms, as both the Hegemony and the Alliance rebuilt their sacked and ruined lands. Millions had died in the war, and the planet would not recover for decades.  
High Speaker Sarnac was present to welcome the delegation, along with her entourage. To the clamoring of spectators Unathi, Skrell and human alike, they entered the hotel, where the talks have begun in earnest. Though it is very early in the process, our correspondent on the scene was able to glean some insight as to the agendas from both sides.  


With the war over, the Izweski began to reverse many of the policies of the Sarakus. Their strict control of the economy was abolished, leading to a rebirth of guilds in the Hegemony. In the 22nd century, many of these guilds would evolve into trade unions, which would come into conflict with the nobility as more and more of their control over the economy vanished. This is reported to have led to several rebellions, though most of the details of these have been excised from the Izweski historical record. The move towards free trade greatly destabilised the nation at first, but it would eventually prove beneficial to the nation’s economy, leading to a rapidly growing middle class.
It appears that the Hegemon, via the High Speaker, has demanded reparations from Nralakk for the occupation of Ouerea, claiming that they had no right to meddle in that world’s affairs and that it was shameful that his father was forced to resort to drastic measures to reclaim what is rightfully an Izweski colony. The Skrell have not taken this well, with their delegation claiming that the Federation was the only reason Ouerea survived the Contact War at all, and that Hegemon S’kresti’s actions were an act of rash bravado, where he could have instead negotiated with the Federation to ensure a peaceful transfer of power. The Skrell delegation also mentioned a shuttle of their diplomats destroyed by Traditionalists during the Contact War, claiming that as the ruler of all Moghes, Hegemon Not’zar bears an obligation to make amends.


===The New Economy===
So far, neither side seems to be bending on their demands - though the diplomatic process can be a lengthy one, and negotiations have only just begun. Rumors abound on the streets of Ouerea, however, with many claiming that Guildmaster T’zakal of Hephaestus Industries may be invited to the talks. As yet, Hephaestus Industries has not made any statement on the matter, and these rumors may have little merit to them.
''“Steel won this nation, but silver built it.”''<br>
''-Gukha Rozalt, guildmaster of the Merchants’ Guild (2195)''


Despite the turmoil that the new policies had brought to the Hegemony, the process continued. By the year 2200, the Izweski had presided over the growth of mass media, leading to an increasingly globalised society. The growing middle class within the Hegemony had become a sizable economic and political force, largely channelled through the guild system. Though much of the guilds’ leadership was made up of commoners, by the turn of the century the major guilds had vastly more power within Hegemonic society than most of the nobility.
As always, we at Sinta Articles will keep our readers updated on these talks as they progress, and we express our deepest hope for a mutually beneficial resolution.  


Major cities across Moghes were filled with clunky cars navigating traffic as stoplights replaced traffic cops, and most homes had access to televisions, radios, and other modern amenities. Guilds owned monopolies over specific goods and services. Powerful merchant families owned hospital chains, pharmaceutical companies, car companies, television networks; a dynastic control of private enterprise had developed. An urban, middle-class Unathi found themselves with all the modern luxuries and basic goods that were available to the average human in the 21st century.
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However, this system was held up by a vast underclass in urban Unathi society. Nearly every major city had sprawling slums that surrounded the industrial districts, filled with underpaid factory workers who ironically found their rights curtailed by the powerful trade unions. Guwan specifically were ruthlessly exploited, forced to work as street sweepers or maintain the sewers as payment for their crimes in a situation that critics of the Izweski described as little better than slave labour.. Orphans found themselves cared for in boardhouses owned by a Guild until they turned 16, when they were forced to work for the Guild to pay back the debt they incurred caring for them. The Izweski are recorded to have made little effort to alleviate the abject poverty many Unathi were suffering from the rampant abuse of the major guilds, believing that the consequences were necessary to maintain a modern, functioning empire.
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=Talks Continue On Ouerea; Hephaestus, K’lax Invited=
'''News Article'''


The one change that the Izweski made to curtail guild power was the centralisation of currency - since the origins of the guild system, individual banking guilds had minted and issued their own currencies, in a massively decentralised system. In 2212, the Izweski outlawed guilds producing their own currency, nationalising all resources for such under the Hegemonic Reserve Bank.
'''Publisher: Sinta Articles'''


This bank became the only institution that could mint coins, called Zikis. The bank also began issuing paper money, called Zakas. Both the steel coins and paper notes were backed by salted fish until 2251, when the currency was taken off the Fish Standard. The Zaka became the reserve currency of Moghes by 2290, and continued to be so until it was replaced by the Biesel Standard Credit.
'''Writer: RustingWithYou'''


===The Nuclear Age===
'''Editors: Triogenix, Desven'''
''“With this, we have brought an end to war.”''<br>
''-Apocryphal quote, often attributed to an Izweski nuclear scientist''


The first Unathi nuclear test took place in 2345, funded by the Izweski Hegemony and carried out by scientists of the [[Unathi_Educational_Institutions#Skalamar_Academy_of_the_Natural_Sciences|Skalamar Academy of the Natural Sciences]]. The bomb was detonated in the freezing climate of Moghes’ north pole, at a research installation far to the north of the city of Guzari. Though the project was highly classified, word eventually spread - that the Izweski had a weapon unparalleled by any other nation of Moghes. The Izweski began constructing more nuclear weapons - first to be dropped from aircraft, and later to be launched via missile, with advances in rocketry making both the usage of ICBMs and the newly-formed [[Unathi Spaceflight|Izweski Space Program]] viable.
5/05/2466


The Izweski nuclear arsenal became a point of pride - no foe could threaten the Hegemony without risking total annihilation. Following the confirmation of nuclear weapons’ plausibility, some rival kingdoms began their own nuclear projects - though without the wealth and resources of the Izweski, only a few had any successes. The most notable of these was the Azarak Kingdom, in the region now called the [[Broken Coalition]] - who invested much of their nation’s wealth and power in their own nuclear program. While not as advanced or widespread as the Izweski’s nuclear weapons, the scientists of the Azarak were able to field a significant number nonetheless. While other kingdoms engaged in nuclear research, there was no report of anything beyond the smallest of successes among them.
''“The hour's now come;''<br>
''The very minute bids thee ope thine ear.”''<br>
-The Tempest, Act I Scene II


For a time, however, the presence of nuclear weapons enforced a kind of uneasy peace over Moghes - the Izweski would not dare to attack the few kingdoms capable of rivalling them with the prospect of mutual nuclear devastation, and no one on Moghes would even think of war with the Hegemony when they wielded such terrible power. It was a delicate peace, but it was a peace - and would remain that way for nearly a century.
The talks continue, and new faces are seen at the table
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">


===The Beginnings of Space Travel===
The diplomatic talks on Ouerea seem to be making swift progress - while we do not have any further information on how both parties’ agenda is shifting, word from the inside is that attitudes have begun to soften, and that both sides are moving closer to an agreement. What that agreement is, and what it will entail for the Hegemony at large, remains to be seen.
''“The stars themselves will belong to the Hegemon - and he needs your help!”''<br>
''-Recruitment slogan for Ouerean colonists, 2386''


The Unathi took their first steps into the stars in the year 2339, with the formal establishment of the Izweski Space Program. Largely, this came in the form of unmanned communication and observation satellites, many of which have been refurbished for the modern day. The first manned Unathi missions came in 2343, when an Unathi named Kseok Hizra made history - becoming the first Unathi in space. Manned missions continued, with Unathi setting foot on Chanterel in 2361. The Hegemony space program received drastic upgrades in 2372, when [[Ouerea]] was discovered to be inhabitable. The Izweski poured money and resources into the colonization of Ouerea, establishing a population of a few thousand on the planet, as well as establishing orbital installations for resupply of their crude and slow shuttles. This led to the creation of what was at the time designated Izweski Station - the first space station put into the orbit of Moghes.  
Hephaestus Industries has also announced that they will be attending the talks at the Hegemon’s request, with Guildmaster T’zakal issuing a statement that due to the guild’s strong ties to every part of the Hegemonic economy since their recent reorganization of the major Hegemonic guilds, the outcome of these talks is of deep importance to Hephaestus.


The colonisation of Ouerea was viewed as a massive victory for the Hegemony, with propaganda from the late 2300s claiming that “The Hegemon’s rule extends to the very stars”. To rival kingdoms, however, it was a great concern - if the Izweski Hegemony could become a truly spacefaring power, they would have an insurmountable advantage over the other nations of Moghes. Many feared that with the first colonists setting foot on Ouerea, a second global war had become inevitable.
Guildmaster T’zakal arrived on Ouerea yesterday morning, and spent the day touring the recently-completed Aquacultural Center One - before arriving by shuttle in New Skalamar last night, and traveling straight to the site of the talks. What role Hephaestus may play in this negotiation is as of now unknown.  


==First Contact==
The K’lax Hive have also announced that they will be in attendance at the talks. As one of the largest and most influential vassals of the Hegemon, the Vaurcae of Tret are instrumentally positioned within our nation’s economy, with one of the Hive’s representatives stating that ''“Since our arrival, the K’lax and the Sinta’Unathi have held a shared destiny - and if the Nralakk Federation is to be involved in that destiny, we will be included in the discussions.”''
In 2403, a Solarian exploration vessel entered the Uueoa-Esa sector, marking first contact between humans and Unathi. This marked a rapid period of debate among humanity, as to the ethics of making contact with a species that had yet to develop faster-than-light travel. Eventually, the [[Sol Alliance]] and [[Nralakk Federation]] sent a diplomatic mission to make contact with the Izweski, who had been identified as the rulers of Moghes - in order to welcome the newly-discovered Unathi into the wider Spur.  


Naturally, the discovery caused shock among the Unathi population - priests and scholars secluded themselves in intense theological debate as to the spiritual nature of the aliens, nobles schemed to gain advantages from this historic event, and some called for war to prevent these mysterious visitors from invading Moghes. On the human side of things, meanwhile, the megacorporations of the Orion Spur saw an opportunity for an entirely untouched market, and rapidly began working to expand their business into Uueoa-Esa.  
The K’lax delegation at the talks is reportedly being directed by the Queen Vedhra, with representatives of her brood having arrived on Ouerea this afternoon. Sinta Articles reporters attempted to get in contact with the K’laxian delegation in order to elaborate on why the High Queen elected not to send a representative from her own brood, but were unable to clarify. Our correspondents contacted Lady Ta’Akaix’Maz'roth'isek K’lax, the leader of the K’laxian delegation, who stated ''“The High Queen trusts in her servants’ ability in a matter that will affect the Hive in its entirety. Though I serve the Queen Vedhra, my role at this summit is to stand for all the K’lax.”''


The Hegemony worked carefully to keep alien contact controlled at first, only allowing visiting humans and Skrell in highly-restricted areas under heavy guard. Eventually, this was relaxed, as [[NanoTrasen]] was contracted to build the first spaceport on Moghes, in the city of Skalamar. Access to more advanced space travel allowed the fledgling colony on Ouerea to undergo a rapid boom, with humans, [[Skrell]] and Unathi mingling freely on the planet's surface.
With the talks soon to enter their second week, we eagerly await further information. As always, we will keep our readers updated as the situation develops.


Trade with humanity proved a great boon for the Hegemony, granting access to advanced technology beyond the wildest dreams of even the greatest scientists of Moghes. But with this opportunity came upheaval, as many Unathi saw a chance to break free of the highly stratified society that existed prior to contact. The first [[Unathi Piracy|Unathi space pirates]] emerged in 2417, leading to the earliest beginnings of the Izweski Navy - though it was a ramshackle force, largely dealing with decades-old Hephaestus designs purchased cheaply.
</div></div>


Outside the Hegemony, however, first contact was a sign of all the worst fears that the other nations of Moghes had harboured. The aliens had treated the Izweski as if they were the rulers of Moghes in truth, and the technological superiority the Hegemony possessed would now only grow further beyond their rivals. Various meetings among the rulers outside of Izweski territory were held, in the hopes of forming some grand coalition to stand against the Izweski and their dreams of empire. Though it would not break out for decades to come, the Contact War was already set in motion.
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
=Senator Trang Condemns Hephaestus Role in Nralakk Summit=
'''News Article'''


==The Contact War==
'''Publisher: Sol Alliance News Network'''
In 2439, Moghes would be plunged into global warfare, the consequences of which would see the planet sundered and bleeding for generations to come. More information about the Contact War can be found [[Contact War|here]].


===Prelude To War===
'''Writer: RustingWithYou'''
''“They come with arms outstretched in friendship, but their intention is to reach out and snap our necks!'”''<br>
''-King [[Notable_Unathi#Don'zai_Azarak|Don’zai Azarak]], during his infamous address to the Firebrand Summit.''


As the colony on Ouerea grew, and alien trade further enriched the Hegemony, the Izweski sought to secure themselves as the first and only interstellar power among the Unathi. Under the reign of Hegemon S’kresti Izweski, the Hegemony’s best and brightest scientists worked with human and Skrell researchers to create the first Unathi-manufactured warp-capable ship. Named after the lead scientist on the project, the IHRV ''Uezwik’s Hope'' was launched in 2437, a bright beacon that would lead the Sinta’Unathi people to glory among the stars.
'''Editors: Triogenix'''


However, when the time came to spool up the warp engines, a catastrophic malfunction led to the ship being crushed under its own warp bubble.. The failure sent shockwaves through all of Moghes, with massive public outcry about how this experiment had led to the loss of dozens of Unathi lives - some of the brightest and most respected Moghes had, no less. On the 3rd of February 2438, a second attempt at Warp travel would prove to be successful, but the damages had been done, and tensions between the Hegemony and many increasingly hostile nations of Moghes rose drastically. The fact that the Hegemony had now access to not only Ouerea but also faster-than-light travel, while the rest of Moghes was attempting to catch up, only aggravated fears of an absolute supremacy of the Hegemony.
12/05/2466


Many of the independent nations of Moghes were horrified by this turn of events, seeing the entire Unathi way of life being turned upside down so quickly. Whether out of fear of an age of unstoppable Izweski imperialism, or out of suspicion that the humans and Skrell had deliberately sabotaged the development of the ''Uezwik’s Hope'', a grand meeting of the rulers of Moghes was called. This would become known as the Firebrand Summit, which would lead to the formation of the Traditionalist Coalition - a loose alliance of independent nations, united solely in their desire to destroy the Izweski before they came to dominate all of Moghes.
''“The truth you speak doth lack some gentleness''<br>
''And time to speak it in.”''<br>
-The Tempest, Act II Scene I


===The Contact War(2438-2449)===
The Ouerean summit gains attention from across the stars - and not all are happy to see Hephaestus take such a role.
''“Weep for us, who have no more tears left,''<br>
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
''Pray for us, we who are damned alive.”''<br>
''-Yzteka Khanak, celebrated Mudki poet''


The Uezwik Incident was the final catalyst for the Contact War, which began with the sudden assault of Izweski cities in the Zazalai Mountains by the Traditionalist Coalition. The assault was launched three days after the first Unathi crew successfully left Uueoa-Esa with a Moghean ship, while the Hegemony was still celebrating. Conventional warfare lasted a year, from February 6th 2438 to September 5th 2439. After vicious fighting, primarily in the Zazalai Mountains and the borders of Traditionalist kingdoms, the Coalition realised they lacked the ability to breach the Hegemony’s borders in conventional battle. On September 6th 2439, a Traditionalist atomic bomb was dropped on the Izweski city of Da’ha’den, nearly completely obliterating the city.
Senator Le Hanh Trang has issued a public statement with regards to recent talks between the Nralakk Federation and the Unathi-ruled Izweski Hegemony, condemning the invitation of Hephaestus Industries. In a live statement from Unity Station today, the senator stated that ''“It is a dark day for the Spur when a megacorporation sits at a table with two nations, and negotiates as an equal. We in the Alliance know too well the damage that these corporations can cause - the actions of NanoTrasen have been devastating to the Alliance and its people, and Hephaestus themselves have exploited my homeworld and its people for generations. While this is not unexpected of the Unathi - a species new to the interstellar stage, who do not understand the danger that unchecked corporate power poses - I would expect more wisdom from our long-time allies in the Nralakk Federation than to allow such a predatory force to influence their affairs. I hope that both sides of these Ouerean negotiations realize the foolishness of their actions, and reconsider inviting Hephaestus to their discussion.”''


The Traditionalist Coalition’s use of nuclear weapons came as a surprise - though the Azarak and a few other kingdoms did possess nuclear weapons, the Coalition used them in enormous numbers, almost comparable to the Izweski’s. To this day, the question is often raised when discussing the Contact War - how did they get so many nuclear weapons, and how did the Izweski not know about it? Theories range wildly, with some suspecting a decades-long plan for a global war from the Azarak - discreetly arming their fellow independent kingdoms for when the time came to strike the Izweski. This is a fringe theory, however, with the more commonly accepted belief being that the kingdoms of the Coalition received aid from Izweski scientists and rapidly began the production of nuclear weapons in the hopes of providing a deterrent against Izweski power when it became clear that the Traditionalists would not be able to win the Contact War conventionally. When the first nuclear weapons were fired, however, the idea of mutually assured destruction vanished - and all of Moghes would pay the price for it.
Senator Trang has often made such statements against the megacorporations of the Spur, having been a leading figure in the implementation of the Solarian Corporate Authority and the nationalization of corporate assets across the Alliance. SANN reporters reached out to the Nralakk Federation consulate on Unity Station, and received an official response informing us: ''“The Nralakk Federation is well aware of all risks involved in these negotiations, but we do not make our decisions based on fear. Rest assured that our representatives shall act with the wisdom that we pride ourselves on, and that we extend our hopes that ill-founded fear is not allowed to jeopardize the friendship between our two great nations.”''


Though some of the wealthier and more powerful kingdoms of the Coalition possessed atomic weapons, the Izweski were unprepared for their use in such numbers, with both sides beginning a continued nuclear exchange - launching hundreds of nuclear weapons. It is reported that observing alien vessels had their viewing shutters lowered constantly to prevent eye damage to the crew, as Moghes burned below them. The nuclear exchange lasted for one week. By its conclusion, nearly two billion Unathi were dead, and over sixty percent of the planet’s surface was rendered uninhabitable wasteland.
SANN has also reached out to staff at the Alliance embassy on Moghes for comment, but we have only received a fax informing us that the Alliance has yet to take an official stance on the matter. Time will tell whether or not Senator Trang’s words will reach our allies in the Federation, however - or whether Hephaestus will keep its seat at the negotiating table.


The War continued on after the nuclear exchange, but it became a desperate war of attrition and survival. The war's formal conclusion is widely accepted to be when exhausted Izweski forces captured the Coalition capital city of Darakath ten years after the bombs fell, on December 4th, 2449, signalling the defeat of the last organised force left to oppose the Izweski, ending the eleven year long conflict.
</div></div>


===Aftermath===
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
''“Another such victory, and I will rule an empire of ghosts.”''<br>
=Agreement Reached on Ouerea!=
''-Hegemon S’kresti Izweski, upon being informed of the victory at Darakath.''
'''News Article'''


With the capture of Darakath, the Contact War came to an end. For the devastation wrought upon Moghes, the entire Azarak clan was sentenced to death by the victorious Izweski - though it was a hollow victory, that had seen billions of Unathi perish and over half the planet turned into irradiated desert.
'''Publisher: Sinta Articles'''


The Contact War has had a lasting effect on Unathi society and culture - notably, in the near species-wide disgust felt towards nuclear weapons. The Hegemony has invested significant resources into finding and dismantling every nuclear weapons stockpile they can reach, having finished disposing of the last of their own nuclear weapons in 2460.
'''Writer: RustingWithYou'''


==Unathi Today==
'''Editors: Triogenix'''
''“And to survive, one must adapt, for change is the only assurance of life.”''<br>
- Lord Tuscacun, Commander of Izweski Military Forces at the beginning of the Contact War.''


As of 2465, Moghes is still a sundered and bleeding world. The Wasteland has expanded steadily, leading to more and more refugees fleeing into the Untouched Lands as the fallout renders more of the world uninhabitable day by day. The best projections of Izweski scientists indicate that, should nothing be done to mitigate or reverse the damage caused, Moghes will be unable to support life by 2500.
20/05/2466


In addition, the Hegemony has been rife with political and economic instability in recent years. The fall of Hegemon S’kresti and rise of his successor Not’zar was marked by power struggles, civil war and bitter conflict. The old religions of Moghes struggle against one another, and new subversive cults have arisen that seek to tear the Hegemony down in its entirety. As the Spur’s phoron scarcity worsened, famine gripped Moghes as the economy threatened to collapse entirely, only to be saved by the last-minute intervention of [[Hephaestus Industries]] - a move which has infuriated many.
''“And as the morning steals upon the night,''<br>
''Melting the darkness, so their rising senses''<br>
''Begin to chase the ignorant fumes that mantle''<br>
''Their clearer reason.”''<br>
-The Tempest, Act V Scene I


The Hegemony today occupies a precarious position of hard-won stability. Though the arrival of the [[Vaurca_Hives#K'lax|K’lax Hive]] has granted the Unathi access to advanced technology, it remains to be seen whether it will be enough to save Moghes from the slow death that currently grips it. The nobles plot and scheme for greater power, the other megacorporations seek to disrupt Hephaestus’s key position in the nation’s economy, and unrest seems to grip the nation more and more with each passing day. The future of the Unathi race remains uncertain, and opinions differ on the events of recent years - whether they are the last gasps of a dying Hegemony, or a period of adversity that will precede an unparalleled golden age.
Old grudges are settled, and new accords are struck.  
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">


More information on major events in Unathi society following the end of the Contact War can be found [[Unathi Recent Events|here]].
The High Speaker has announced that the talks with the Nralakk Federation, which have been ongoing for nearly a month, have reached an end, with both parties finally reaching an agreement. She was photographed with the Skrell representative, Ormish Jrolk, proudly announcing the signing of the newly-named Nralakk-Izweski Mutual Prosperity Agreement.
 
The agreement is a lengthy one, but our correspondents have gathered the main points that are most likely to impact our readers, and what they may mean for the future of our own nation and our newfound friends in the Nralakk Federation. The agreement entails the following:
 
* The Nralakk Federation will formally acknowledge its unlawful occupation of Ouerea - while both parties recognise the difficulties the Contact War posed to colonial administration, the Federation will formally acknowledge that control should have been returned immediately following the end of the war on Moghes, and that Hegemon S’kresti should not have had to resort to military action to see our colony returned to us. The Federation has declined to comment on the Sol Alliance’s role in the Ouerean affair, stating that it lies outside the purview of the summit.
* As a form of reparation for their interference in Sinta affairs, the Federation will offer the assistance of its scientists in combating the spreading of the Wasteland, as well as assisting in medical treatment of those harmed by radiation.
* The Hegemon has made a formal trade agreement with the Federation, and is set to begin exporting raw materials to Skrell space soon via Hephaestus Industries. Guildmaster T’zakal has strongly endorsed this announcement, welcoming the opportunity to expand further into alien markets.
* The Hegemony will permit the ships of the Federation’s ‘Qukala’ (their primary military force) to dock at any Izweski colony, station or port. This will allow our new trade partners to assist the Izweski Navy in ensuring that cargo vessels are capable of safely traveling through the Badlands and Sparring Sea without threat of piracy.
While some still remain skeptical of the Nralakk-Izweski Mutual Prosperity Agreement, the mood across the Hegemony overall is one of celebration, as the Federation’s commitment to the restoration efforts on Moghes has been declared.
 
An initial group of Federation scientists and healers is set to arrive within the month, to begin working to both treat radiation-related disorders among the population and to work with the brightest minds of the Hegemony in accelerating environmental restoration efforts on Moghes. High Speaker Sarnac made a public address from Skalamar, having seen the Skrell delegation safely depart from the system, bound to return to Federation space. From the Izweski keep, the High Speaker addressed the assembled press, stating:
 
''“It has been a long and arduous negotiation - but both the Hegemon and myself are pleased at this outcome. The rabble-rousing of some who believe the Skrell hold some sort of nefarious agenda can be safely dismissed - and on behalf of myself and Hegemon Not’zar, I wish to welcome the aid of our new allies in the Nralakk Federation in the restoration of our world. May the Great Spirit bless this new agreement, and the wisdom of our Hegemon in seeking such a powerful ally.”''
 
The Nralakk Federation has also made plans for the reopening of the embassy in Skalamar, having made an agreement with Hephaestus Industries to begin construction on new premises immediately. Though an ambassador has yet to be appointed, Grand Advisor Jrolk did make a brief statement to Sinta Articles earlier today, stating on behalf of the Nralakk Federation their satisfaction with the agreement reached - and that they look forward to the age of future cooperation between our two nations that this agreement heralds.
 
We at Sinta Articles strongly congratulate the Hegemon for this alliance, as well as the offer of assistance from our new friends in the Federation. As always, we will keep our readers updated as the situation develops further.
 
</div></div>
 
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
=Chapter I: Strange Bedfellows=
'''Server Event'''
 
'''Host: RustingWithYou'''
 
01/06/2466
 
Via Hephaestus, the SCC is invited to participate in the humanitarian program. Fresh from their recent successes on Konyang, the SCCV Horizon is deployed to the Uueoa-Esa system.
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
 
The Horizon crew was invited to the Grand Ouerean Hotel in New Skalamar, while humanitarian program representatives inspected the vessel. While the crew enjoyed the hotel's many amenities, command met with representatives of the Hegemony, the Federation, the K'lax Hive, and Hephaestus Industries, who briefed them on the significance of their mission. The Horizon was informed that their first major mission would be to assist the town of Kazseres, located in the southern Tza Prairie.
 
</div></div>

Latest revision as of 03:48, 3 June 2024

New Blades, Old Wounds
2024 Event Timeline
Galactic Events N/A
Major Events Silicon Nightmares Arc · New Blades, Old Wounds Arc
Minor Events Stoking The Flames Arc · Demands of the Three Arc · War in Heaven Arc
This is the overview and timeline page for the New Blades, Old Wounds Arc which began on April 20, 2024 and pertains largely to Unathi and Skrell lore.
It is centered around the relationship between the Izweski Hegemony and the Nralakk Federation, and their joint humanitarian efforts on the planet Moghes.
Below is a summary of the arc's applicable news articles, and additions.

Hegemon Announces Talks With Skrell!

News Article

Publisher: Sinta Articles

Writer: RustingWithYou

Editors: Triogenix

20/04/2466

"Awake, dear heart, awake."
-The Tempest, Act I Scene II

Hegemon Not'zar reaches out to the Nralakk Federation, hoping that recent upheavals will allow old grudges to be laid to rest.

In a surprising announcement from Skalamar today, Hegemon Not’zar Izweski announced that he intends to hold a diplomatic summit with the Nralakk Federation, which will be led by High Speaker Seleta Sarnac. The office of the High Speaker followed up on this, stating that Hegemon Not’zar understands that there is a long and often-troubled history between Sinta and Skrell, and he hopes that the two nations can enter into a more prosperous relationship in future.

The talks are set to take place on Ouerea, in several weeks’ time. Many have speculated as to the Hegemon’s choice to invite the Skrell delegation to Ouerea rather than Moghes - while some believe it is simply due to the planet’s large Skrell population, others believe that the Hegemon intends to call the Skrell to account for the planet’s occupation during the Contact War.

The Skrell delegation’s agenda, as well as who their representative will be, remains to be seen. The office of the High Speaker confirmed to us this morning, however, that the Nralakk Federation has accepted the Hegemon’s invitation. Their envoys will likely be en route to Uueoa-Esa already, and many wait apprehensively to see what the Federation hopes to get from these talks.

Some among the nobility have been outspoken against the Hegemon’s decision, however - with many protesting the inviting of Skrell to Izweski space, blaming them for everything from the Ouerean Rebellion to the Contact War itself. Perhaps the most outspoken of these was Lord Juyzi Izaku of Mudki, who invited representatives of Sinta Articles to a press conference in the city to issue his statement.

Lord Izaku was certainly passionate on the matter, claiming that "The Skrell, they get inside a man’s thoughts, to twist his mind and strip his honor! You see them, small and weak as they are, and you think they are harmless, but they can manipulate your very spirit - look at the slaughter on Ouerea, barely more than five years ago! It was driven by them, twisting innocent Sinta to anarchy and murder, and now the Hegemon wishes to treat with them? He must be careful, lest he find himself dancing on their vile and twisted strings.”

While the Lord of Mudki is certainly the most outspoken, he is not the only one of the nobility to object to these talks. Several among the nobility have petitioned the Hegemon to turn away from this plan, citing the occupation of Ouerea and subsequent rebellion as proof that the Skrell cannot be trusted to negotiate in good faith.

We at Sinta Articles hope for a resolution that is beneficial to the Hegemony and its people. As always, we shall keep our readers updated on these talks as they develop.

Ormish Jrolk Departs For Alien Stars

News Article

Publisher: Warble Enquirer

Writer: RustingWithYou

Editors: Triogenix, Brotendo

26/04/2466

“Misery acquaints a man with strange bedfellows.”
-The Tempest, Act II Scene II

The Federation's representative departs for Ouerea.

Grand Advisor of Economic Development Ormish Jrolk has announced their temporary departure from Federation space today - leading a delegation to the planet Ouerea, a warm and hospitable world currently under the rule of the Izweski Hegemony. The ruler of the Hegemony, Hegemon Not’zar Izweski, extended formal invitations to the Nralakk Federation to send a delegation to Ouerea, in the hopes of laying to rest past hostilities between Unathi and Skrell.

The Unathi, for those of our readers who are not aware, rapidly descended into global nuclear warfare following first contact with the Federation and the Solarian Alliance - during which a delegation of Federation diplomats was sent in the hopes of brokering peace between the two warring sides, and preventing needless loss of life. These delegates were murdered, their shuttle shot down by the group known as the ‘Traditionalist Coalition’ (Unrelated to the Homeworld Traditionalist Coalition party), a radical collection of Unathi micro-states opposed to further dealings with the Federation and humanity.

Since that day, the Federation has had little contact with the Unathi - though for several decades, Federation officials administrated the colony on Ouerea, due to the Hegemon’s inability to do so during wartime. Following the end of what the Unathi have come to call the ‘Contact War’, the Federation graciously returned control of Ouerea to the Unathi, though a substantial Skrell population remains on the planet.

Reportedly, the delegation was approved with an overwhelming majority by the Grand Council, with only the Homeworld Traditionalist Coalition voting against. Coalition leader Overseer Nalo Gir-Roq referred to the delegation as “a mistake” during an address to the Council, claiming that for the Federation to involve ourselves further in the affairs of the Spur at large only serves to weaken our position on the interstellar stage. The Coalition was thoroughly outvoted, however, with all other parties standing in favor of the Ouerean talks. Grand Advisor Jrolk and the Federalist League cited the dangers of pirate and Marauder activity on the Federation’s southern border, claiming that forming stronger ties to the nations of the Sparring Sea is a proactive measure to ensure our national security against such threats in future - while voices from the Free Skrell Union cited establishing further connections to Hephaestus Industries as a key reason for building diplomatic ties to the Hegemony.

The talks are scheduled to begin in several weeks' time. Questions of whether these talks will lead to future involvement in Unathi affairs, or further connection with alien nations, remain unanswered for now - though the Federation watches eagerly to see what will come of the Ouerean summit.

Nralakk Delegation Arrives, Talks Begin

News Article

Publisher: Sinta Articles

Writer: RustingWithYou

Editors: Triogenix

30/04/2466

“Yet, with my nobler reason 'gainst my fury
Do I take part; the rarer action is
In virtue than in vengeance.”
-The Tempest, Act V Scene I

The talks on Ouerea begin, and speculation abounds on what each side hopes to gain.

The delegation from the distant Nralakk Federation has arrived, entering the Uueoa-Esa system early this morning before landing on Ouerea properly. Led by Ormish Jrolk, their ‘Grand Advisor of Economic Development’ - a role similar to a Master of Rivers - the delegation was promptly shown to a hotel in New Skalamar’s Founding District, where the talks are set to take place.

High Speaker Sarnac was present to welcome the delegation, along with her entourage. To the clamoring of spectators Unathi, Skrell and human alike, they entered the hotel, where the talks have begun in earnest. Though it is very early in the process, our correspondent on the scene was able to glean some insight as to the agendas from both sides.

It appears that the Hegemon, via the High Speaker, has demanded reparations from Nralakk for the occupation of Ouerea, claiming that they had no right to meddle in that world’s affairs and that it was shameful that his father was forced to resort to drastic measures to reclaim what is rightfully an Izweski colony. The Skrell have not taken this well, with their delegation claiming that the Federation was the only reason Ouerea survived the Contact War at all, and that Hegemon S’kresti’s actions were an act of rash bravado, where he could have instead negotiated with the Federation to ensure a peaceful transfer of power. The Skrell delegation also mentioned a shuttle of their diplomats destroyed by Traditionalists during the Contact War, claiming that as the ruler of all Moghes, Hegemon Not’zar bears an obligation to make amends.

So far, neither side seems to be bending on their demands - though the diplomatic process can be a lengthy one, and negotiations have only just begun. Rumors abound on the streets of Ouerea, however, with many claiming that Guildmaster T’zakal of Hephaestus Industries may be invited to the talks. As yet, Hephaestus Industries has not made any statement on the matter, and these rumors may have little merit to them.

As always, we at Sinta Articles will keep our readers updated on these talks as they progress, and we express our deepest hope for a mutually beneficial resolution.

Talks Continue On Ouerea; Hephaestus, K’lax Invited

News Article

Publisher: Sinta Articles

Writer: RustingWithYou

Editors: Triogenix, Desven

5/05/2466

“The hour's now come;
The very minute bids thee ope thine ear.”
-The Tempest, Act I Scene II

The talks continue, and new faces are seen at the table

The diplomatic talks on Ouerea seem to be making swift progress - while we do not have any further information on how both parties’ agenda is shifting, word from the inside is that attitudes have begun to soften, and that both sides are moving closer to an agreement. What that agreement is, and what it will entail for the Hegemony at large, remains to be seen.

Hephaestus Industries has also announced that they will be attending the talks at the Hegemon’s request, with Guildmaster T’zakal issuing a statement that due to the guild’s strong ties to every part of the Hegemonic economy since their recent reorganization of the major Hegemonic guilds, the outcome of these talks is of deep importance to Hephaestus.

Guildmaster T’zakal arrived on Ouerea yesterday morning, and spent the day touring the recently-completed Aquacultural Center One - before arriving by shuttle in New Skalamar last night, and traveling straight to the site of the talks. What role Hephaestus may play in this negotiation is as of now unknown.

The K’lax Hive have also announced that they will be in attendance at the talks. As one of the largest and most influential vassals of the Hegemon, the Vaurcae of Tret are instrumentally positioned within our nation’s economy, with one of the Hive’s representatives stating that “Since our arrival, the K’lax and the Sinta’Unathi have held a shared destiny - and if the Nralakk Federation is to be involved in that destiny, we will be included in the discussions.”

The K’lax delegation at the talks is reportedly being directed by the Queen Vedhra, with representatives of her brood having arrived on Ouerea this afternoon. Sinta Articles reporters attempted to get in contact with the K’laxian delegation in order to elaborate on why the High Queen elected not to send a representative from her own brood, but were unable to clarify. Our correspondents contacted Lady Ta’Akaix’Maz'roth'isek K’lax, the leader of the K’laxian delegation, who stated “The High Queen trusts in her servants’ ability in a matter that will affect the Hive in its entirety. Though I serve the Queen Vedhra, my role at this summit is to stand for all the K’lax.”

With the talks soon to enter their second week, we eagerly await further information. As always, we will keep our readers updated as the situation develops.

Senator Trang Condemns Hephaestus Role in Nralakk Summit

News Article

Publisher: Sol Alliance News Network

Writer: RustingWithYou

Editors: Triogenix

12/05/2466

“The truth you speak doth lack some gentleness
And time to speak it in.”
-The Tempest, Act II Scene I

The Ouerean summit gains attention from across the stars - and not all are happy to see Hephaestus take such a role.

Senator Le Hanh Trang has issued a public statement with regards to recent talks between the Nralakk Federation and the Unathi-ruled Izweski Hegemony, condemning the invitation of Hephaestus Industries. In a live statement from Unity Station today, the senator stated that “It is a dark day for the Spur when a megacorporation sits at a table with two nations, and negotiates as an equal. We in the Alliance know too well the damage that these corporations can cause - the actions of NanoTrasen have been devastating to the Alliance and its people, and Hephaestus themselves have exploited my homeworld and its people for generations. While this is not unexpected of the Unathi - a species new to the interstellar stage, who do not understand the danger that unchecked corporate power poses - I would expect more wisdom from our long-time allies in the Nralakk Federation than to allow such a predatory force to influence their affairs. I hope that both sides of these Ouerean negotiations realize the foolishness of their actions, and reconsider inviting Hephaestus to their discussion.”

Senator Trang has often made such statements against the megacorporations of the Spur, having been a leading figure in the implementation of the Solarian Corporate Authority and the nationalization of corporate assets across the Alliance. SANN reporters reached out to the Nralakk Federation consulate on Unity Station, and received an official response informing us: “The Nralakk Federation is well aware of all risks involved in these negotiations, but we do not make our decisions based on fear. Rest assured that our representatives shall act with the wisdom that we pride ourselves on, and that we extend our hopes that ill-founded fear is not allowed to jeopardize the friendship between our two great nations.”

SANN has also reached out to staff at the Alliance embassy on Moghes for comment, but we have only received a fax informing us that the Alliance has yet to take an official stance on the matter. Time will tell whether or not Senator Trang’s words will reach our allies in the Federation, however - or whether Hephaestus will keep its seat at the negotiating table.

Agreement Reached on Ouerea!

News Article

Publisher: Sinta Articles

Writer: RustingWithYou

Editors: Triogenix

20/05/2466

“And as the morning steals upon the night,
Melting the darkness, so their rising senses
Begin to chase the ignorant fumes that mantle
Their clearer reason.”
-The Tempest, Act V Scene I

Old grudges are settled, and new accords are struck.

The High Speaker has announced that the talks with the Nralakk Federation, which have been ongoing for nearly a month, have reached an end, with both parties finally reaching an agreement. She was photographed with the Skrell representative, Ormish Jrolk, proudly announcing the signing of the newly-named Nralakk-Izweski Mutual Prosperity Agreement.

The agreement is a lengthy one, but our correspondents have gathered the main points that are most likely to impact our readers, and what they may mean for the future of our own nation and our newfound friends in the Nralakk Federation. The agreement entails the following:

  • The Nralakk Federation will formally acknowledge its unlawful occupation of Ouerea - while both parties recognise the difficulties the Contact War posed to colonial administration, the Federation will formally acknowledge that control should have been returned immediately following the end of the war on Moghes, and that Hegemon S’kresti should not have had to resort to military action to see our colony returned to us. The Federation has declined to comment on the Sol Alliance’s role in the Ouerean affair, stating that it lies outside the purview of the summit.
  • As a form of reparation for their interference in Sinta affairs, the Federation will offer the assistance of its scientists in combating the spreading of the Wasteland, as well as assisting in medical treatment of those harmed by radiation.
  • The Hegemon has made a formal trade agreement with the Federation, and is set to begin exporting raw materials to Skrell space soon via Hephaestus Industries. Guildmaster T’zakal has strongly endorsed this announcement, welcoming the opportunity to expand further into alien markets.
  • The Hegemony will permit the ships of the Federation’s ‘Qukala’ (their primary military force) to dock at any Izweski colony, station or port. This will allow our new trade partners to assist the Izweski Navy in ensuring that cargo vessels are capable of safely traveling through the Badlands and Sparring Sea without threat of piracy.

While some still remain skeptical of the Nralakk-Izweski Mutual Prosperity Agreement, the mood across the Hegemony overall is one of celebration, as the Federation’s commitment to the restoration efforts on Moghes has been declared.

An initial group of Federation scientists and healers is set to arrive within the month, to begin working to both treat radiation-related disorders among the population and to work with the brightest minds of the Hegemony in accelerating environmental restoration efforts on Moghes. High Speaker Sarnac made a public address from Skalamar, having seen the Skrell delegation safely depart from the system, bound to return to Federation space. From the Izweski keep, the High Speaker addressed the assembled press, stating:

“It has been a long and arduous negotiation - but both the Hegemon and myself are pleased at this outcome. The rabble-rousing of some who believe the Skrell hold some sort of nefarious agenda can be safely dismissed - and on behalf of myself and Hegemon Not’zar, I wish to welcome the aid of our new allies in the Nralakk Federation in the restoration of our world. May the Great Spirit bless this new agreement, and the wisdom of our Hegemon in seeking such a powerful ally.”

The Nralakk Federation has also made plans for the reopening of the embassy in Skalamar, having made an agreement with Hephaestus Industries to begin construction on new premises immediately. Though an ambassador has yet to be appointed, Grand Advisor Jrolk did make a brief statement to Sinta Articles earlier today, stating on behalf of the Nralakk Federation their satisfaction with the agreement reached - and that they look forward to the age of future cooperation between our two nations that this agreement heralds.

We at Sinta Articles strongly congratulate the Hegemon for this alliance, as well as the offer of assistance from our new friends in the Federation. As always, we will keep our readers updated as the situation develops further.

Chapter I: Strange Bedfellows

Server Event

Host: RustingWithYou

01/06/2466

Via Hephaestus, the SCC is invited to participate in the humanitarian program. Fresh from their recent successes on Konyang, the SCCV Horizon is deployed to the Uueoa-Esa system.

The Horizon crew was invited to the Grand Ouerean Hotel in New Skalamar, while humanitarian program representatives inspected the vessel. While the crew enjoyed the hotel's many amenities, command met with representatives of the Hegemony, the Federation, the K'lax Hive, and Hephaestus Industries, who briefed them on the significance of their mission. The Horizon was informed that their first major mission would be to assist the town of Kazseres, located in the southern Tza Prairie.

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