Skrell Politics

Politics

Government Structure

The flag of the Nralakk Federation

The Nralakk Federation has most of its power centred around the Federal Government, the central body that legislates and governs for the Federation as a whole which is led by the Grand Council. While the Federal Government oversees external relations as well as the overall governing of the Federation, the Sector Government oversees the regular day-to-day operations of a sector and its systems and planets, and is led by the Sector Councillor. Each level of government in the Nralakk Federation will have a council structure of some sort, where several members of equal authority come together to form a council with either shared authority - or under a single authority in some cases similarly to the Grand Council itself.

Positions within the Government follow a strict hierarchical structure, outlined below:

• Borough Councillor - This is the lowest and most local Government position recognised by the State. The definition varies, but boroughs are typically divisions of a town or city, with the number varying based on size. How the division is decided is based entirely on the local Magistrate, with the Regional Governor approving the final proposal. The borough councils are set up in a triumvirate structure and typically provide local services such as garbage collection and community event organisation. They are also responsible for cooperating with Federal Officials when it comes to auditing C'thurian hive-cells living in the borough or having local Diona prepare for their citizenship exam. Borough councils together form the local town or city council, where they make decisions that will affect the entire locality, rather than just their own borough.

• Magistrate - A Magistrate's role can be seen as similar to a mayoral position. Their main responsibilities involve organising the local councils and providing guidance where required, as well as heading ceremonial duties and council meetings. Magistrates also act on behalf of their locality by forming the main council for the Regional Governor.

• Regional Governor - A Regional Governor oversees entire regions on a planet. Typically this is divided by continent, but can also be divided by island chains or other geographic lines. Regional Governors will provide the main administrative decision-making for their region, ensuring that the region they govern performs to an acceptable standard. Regional Governors will form a council with and answer to the Planetary Governor.

• Planetary Governor - The Planetary Governor oversees the administration of entire planets in a system. They follow the directives of the System Councillor, ensuring that a planet is productive and adheres to the standards outlined for their system.

Installation Directors also exist, whose authority depends on the facility in question. Facilities that require governance vary, but range from habitats or industrial facilities orbiting populated planets to large mining structures or research installations in systems only exploited for their resources or for scientific pursuits. The authority of an Installation Director can either be equivalent to a Regional Governor if orbiting an inhabited planet, or a Planetary Governor if it is the sole facility on or orbiting a planet.

• System Councillor - System councillors administrate entire systems. They are responsible for ensuring that the planets and installations in their system are providing their assigned portion of the system's quota as outlined by their Sector Councillor, as well as ensuring that requests for Federal assistance in the form of funding, disaster relief, or other resources are sent through the proper channels. In the event that a system only contains installations, one of the Installation Directors will be assigned the role of System Councillor.

• Sector Councillor - The six Sector Councillors govern one of the Sectors assigned to them by the Grand Councillor. They are responsible for ensuring that each sector is able to achieve the agenda as set out by Grand Council, which they are a part of.

Grand Council

The emblem of the Grand Council.

Wuqrnjeq-Qu'Nralakk (Grand Council of the Nralakk Federation) is the supreme ruling body of the entirety of the Nralakk Federation. The Council will utilize subspace communication frequencies for non-essential meetings but is expected to return to Qerrbalak to attend an annual meeting held in Kal'lo, or in the event of an emergency. The Grand Council is renowned for its swift response to events in the Federation, but the bureaucratic nature of the Federation and its byzantine-like regulations open the way for criticism. Despite the Grand Council being quick to react, it can still take weeks or months for a final decision to be made as every outcome is considered.

History

First formed after the unification of the three nations of Qerrbalak into the Commonwealth of the Three, the Grand Council was designed to oversee matters such as colonization, space exploration and to create a monolithic approach to society. Positions were quickly filled by those elected by their peers - with most coming from the precursor nations; the Heshyu Council, the Tzqul Republic, and the Weshqi Republic. With the formation of the First Nralakk Federation in 878 CE, the Grand Council became the main governing body of the new union.

The Grand Council would see itself subsumed after the rise of Glorsh-Omega who deemed it unnecessary as the intelligence could easily, and much more quickly, respond to any issues that would arise - even preventing issues entirely through the use of predictive algorithms and its tyrannical rule. After Glorsh-Omega's disappearance following the Tri-Qyu Calamity, it left the remnants of the Federation scrambling as planets were left to fend for themselves in the chaotic aftermath of Glorsh's sudden disappearance. It wasn't until the formation of the Second Nralakk Federation in '2245 CE that the Grand Council was reinstated. The aims of such were exceptionally different from those that had guided the Skrell almost a millennia ago, with importance being placed on reintroducing the fragmented colonies back into the fold, reactivating the Nlom Relays disabled by the singularity caused by Glorsh-Omega, and reestablishing their dominance of the stars.

It wasn't until this second iteration of the Grand Council that it was decided that a singular Head of State would be required, prompting the creation of the Grand Councillor title. The Grand Councillor is expected to lead the Federation and its citizens into eras of prosperity, and to ensure the continued existence of the Skrell. Tiipis Yla, the first Grand Councillor, was elected thanks to their heroic efforts spearheading the revolt against Glorsh-Omega, and their proposed ban on any artificial intelligence within the borders of the Federation. Their role in the resistance during Glorsh-Omegas rule and their staunch anti-AI stance secured their position as Grand Councillor until their death almost a century after they came into power.

Grand Councillor Rixa Tep-Wul succeeded Councillor Tiipis Yla after their death in 2305, winning the election with a platform promising to further reintegrate the fringe sectors of the Traverse that did not yet rejoin the Nralakk Federation. Their tenure as Grand Councillor is looked back on with mixed feelings; while their administration did see stability and steady growth, many Skrell today are quick to point out the setbacks, mistakes, and inefficient decision-making of Tep-Wul. Tep-Wul's time as Grand Councillor saw the widespread use of recollection pills, the reintegration of many Traverse worlds, first contact with Humanity - and the subsequent leak of AI designs that led to humans creating true Artificial Intelligence.

Today, the Grand Council is headed by Grand Councillor Weashbi Jrugl, who succeeded Tep-Wul in the 2453 elections. Grand Councillor Jrugl's first term saw great success as it reintegrated the rest of the Traverse, while his second term has seen both success and misfortune - the most recent being the Phoron Crisis and being forced to enact martial law in the Q'elpi system as a result of it.

Composition

A visual representation of the composition of the Grand Council of the Nralakk Federation.

The composition of the Grand Council is as follows:

• Grand Councillor:

The titleholder is expected to engage with the respective branches of the Federation: Executive, Judicial and Legislative. They are to utilize such to ensure sustainable development of all aspects in Skrell Society.

• Sector Councillors:

The leaders of the six sectors of the Nralakk Federation, these councillors are expected to co-operate with the Grand Councillor, and relay information to and from the systems they oversee. Alongside the Grand Councillor, these members of the Council oversee policy, laws, direction and hold the most direct control over the Federation as a whole.

• Advisory Council:

The advisory council is comprised of Skrell that are selected by the Grand Councillor to provide advice when requested. Typically selected among idols that have made a profound impact in their respective fields. Recently, former members of the Independent Traverser Movement were added to the Advisory Council by Councillor Jrugl on the basis that they were "required certain individuals to best keep the interests of the Traverse in mind.".

• Public Sector:

The Public Sector is a collective of Skrell important to the functioning of society; composed of Representatives, Idols and bureaucrats. While the advisory council can consist of any Skrell, personally selected by the Grand Councillor, members of the public sector are almost always the top-performing members of their interest group.

Representatives

The Nralakk Federation's external diplomacy is handled primarily by its Representatives, several hundred individuals who take up ambassadorial positions between the Federation and foreign entities. Each Representative is recognised by the Grand Council as an individual of merit, who holds the Federation's best interests at heart and is entrusted to represent the Nralakk Federation abroad.

Representatives are tasked with studying the society of the entity they will be interacting with extensively. While focusing on culture and politics, this can also include history and any other number of topics that the Representative deems important for their work - effectively making them experts on their Entity of Interest.

The responsibilities a Representative may have are based primarily on seniority; older Representatives who have shown an aptitude for politics and diplomacy over the years will be able to choose positions that are more important or desirable, while younger members will either be tasked with shadowing a senior Representative as part of an attaché or given a smaller pool of options to choose from. Representatives who share an Entity of Interest will work together as a group to form a diplomatic corps for that entity, which can be as centralised or decentralised as needed to better represent and protect the interests of the Nralakk Federation.

Representatives will see themselves propelled into idol status as a result of their work, especially if their Entity of Interest is of particular importance to the Nralakk Federation. These individuals are expected to be well-versed in politics and to go above and beyond the standards set by the Federation for its citizens and are under minute security by the Grand Council as a result. Even rumours of a potential scandal are enough for a Representative to be recalled, especially for Representatives interacting with high-profile entities, such as the Federation's long-term ally the Solarian Alliance or the economically strategic Republic of Biesel.

Political Parties and Schools of Thought

The Nralakk Federation has two main schools of thought in modern politics which influence the ideology of its citizens and political parties:

• Symbiosis: The mainstream ideology within the Nralakk Federation; it broadly follows the principles of welcoming foreign people, concepts, and ideas into Skrell society while still holding onto the core ideals that have guided the Skrell for millennia. Its broadness means Symbiosists is susceptible to change, as old ideas adapted for Skrell society are phased out for new ones as time goes on. Doctrines revolve around cooperation with other species and promoting the Nralakk Federation as a guiding hand to the "lesser" nations of the Orion Spur.

• Isolationism: A deeply conservative ideology that's been steadily growing within the Nralakk Federation in the last century. Skrell Isolationism dictates the need for the Federation and Skrell society as a whole to retract themselves from the affairs of the Orion Spur, only involving themselves if events affect the Federation directly. Doctrines revolve around the establishment of a pro-Skrell status quo, self-sufficiency of the Federation, and the following of Skrellian tradition.

• Progressivism: Technically not an ideology by itself, Progressivism is a catch-all for "radicals" within Symbiosist or Isolationist followings. Progressivism focuses on the continuous pursuit of Federation dominion in the Orion Spur, whether it be through cultural, economic, scientific, technological, or military superiority. For example, Symbiosist Progressives will heavily promote human ideas or culture within Federation society as a means of improving the Federation. At the same time, Isolationist Progressives will call for a complete cut-off of the Federation from outside influences and rely on older traditions or ideas to guide the Nralakk Federation forward.

Political Parties

Throughout the history of the Nralakk Federation, politicians ran as independents during elections with no official backing from large political entities. While candidates routinely seek support from Consultant Agencies to help organise or support their campaign, formal political parties did not exist as they do in the rest of the Spur, and candidates instead relied on basing their platform on their own personal ideology that is based on one of the prevailing schools of thought.

After the Independent Traverser Movement and Grand Council finished their negotiations, the Grand Council announced the formation of formal political parties in Federation politics as part of the reforms passed as part of the Traverse Accords. The leaders of these parties have permanent advisor seats on the Grand Council, and will be expected to represent and propose policies in line with their party's policies.

United Federation

"Progress is vital to the continued existence of the Nralakk Federation, but that progress must be carefully navigated. Stagnation and corruption threaten to destroy what we have built over the millennia and must be combatted at every opportunity."

The United Federation Party is headed by Grand Councillor Weashbi Jrugl, and is currently the ruling party within the Nralakk Federation. The party follows a moderate Symbiosist ideology, welcoming new ideas that benefit the Federation and believing in a slow-and-steady approach to enacting new policies.

Policies of note:

• Reforms: Reforms will be considered as long as they are for the betterment of the Federation and do not go against Skrell ideals. The United Federation party is especially interested in policies that will improve the Federation's standing in wider Spur politics and reforms that further uplift its citizens.
• Megacorporations: Megacorporations will be allowed to continue operating within Federation space, but their impact on the Federation as a whole and the Skrellian way of life will be closely monitored. Megacorporations will be under strict regulation while operating within the Nralakk Federation's borders.
• Foreign Policy: The United Federation plans to continue and improve upon its relations with the Solarian Alliance, while at the same time creating and improving upon relations with other nations within the Orion Spur.
• Traverse Autonomy: There are no active plans to reduce or expand on the autonomy of the Traverse.
• Nlom Relays: The Nlom Relay network is considered vital to the continued existence of the Nralakk Federation, and a vital link between Skrell across all worlds within Federation space.

The Homeworld Traditionalist Coalition

"Tradition and the upholding of our species' values are vital to keeping the Nralakk Federation intact. New ideas should be challenged before they are accepted, and change should only be made when it is clear that it benefits the Federation as a whole."

The Homeworld Traditionalist Coalition is a moderate Isolationist party, led by Tuz'qlip Researchers' Overseer Nalo Gir-Roq. The Coalition aims to maintain the culture and traditions of the Nralakk Federation where possible, and seeks to close off the Federation from outside influences.

Policies of note:

• Reforms: Reforms should be enacted only as necessary for the preservation of the Federation and its goals.
• Megacorporations: Megacorporation activity within the Federation is a matter of concern for the Coalition, and foreign influence in the economy and internal affairs should be heavily considered before they should be allowed to expand operations within Federation space. This said, the Coalition currently has no policies planned that would mean the expulsion of megacorporations from the Nralakk Federation.
• Foreign Policy: While current relations with the Solarian Alliance should be sustained, the Homeworld Traditionalist Coalition believes that the Federation should stay out of wider Spur affairs.
• Traverse Autonomy: The Coalition seeks to reintroduce old policies regarding the Traverse, reducing their autonomy greatly and centralising government authority across all sectors of Federation space.
• Nlom Relays: The Federation's Nlom Relay network is considered vital to the trans stellar infrastructure of the Nralakk Federation, enabling a strong, unified nation that works towards the interests of the collective rather than the individual.

The Federalist League

"For the many, not the few. The Nralakk Federation was founded on this idea. Through the equal division of power between all parts of our union, we can build a stronger, more focused nation that can adequately uphold the ideas it was founded upon."

The Federalist League is led by Advisor Ormish Jrolk, and seeks to create a true Federalist state where each part of the Federation has an equal part to play in its organisation. A progressive Symbiosist party, the League wishes to further ties to both megacorporations and foreign powers to further strengthen the Federation.

Policies of note:

• Reforms: The League plans to implement extensive reforms in all areas of Federation society, focusing on equal power between all sectors of government and all citizens. The League also puts an emphasis on economic reform, due to Jrolk's first-hand experience in dealing with the Phoron Crisis and its impact on the Federation.
• Megacorporations: Megacorporate investment into the Nralakk Federation's economy is considered critical in response to the Phoron Crisis. Special Economic Zones introduced by Weashbi Jrugl are not considered effective enough, and cooperation between the megacorporations and State-Owned Enterprises should be encouraged without also encouraging competition.
• Foreign Policy: The Federalist League plans to continue the Federation's relations with the Solarian Alliance, including cooperating in securing national borders with the human Wildlands. Experience with warlords such as Beauchamp, as well as increased risks related to piracy and banditry against Skrell, have led the League to adopt a more proactive stance in protecting the national security of the Federation.
• Traverse Autonomy: The primary goal of the Federalist League is to create an equal-party nation, making Traverse Autonomy a topic of major importance for the party. The League will pursue additional rights and freedoms for sectors outside of the inner systems wherever possible.
• Nlom Relays: The Nlom Relay network is not considered vital for the continued existence of the Nralakk Federation. Each state should be allowed to have the right to choose whether or not they want to enable, disable, or otherwise change how the network impacts them.

The Free Skrell Union

"An economy without needless interference is an economy that performs well. Our fellow star travellers in humanity have flourished in a fraction of the time it took us to, and the Federation should take their ideas and mould them into something more compatible with Skrellian society, if not adopted in their entirety. The adoption of a free open market and receptiveness to change are vital for the continued prosperity of our nation."

The Free Skrell Union is led by Yoana Ji'ko. A progressive Symbiosist party heavily influenced by its leader's experiences as a Representative to the Republic of Biesel, the party has a focus on economic growth through megacorporate involvement and strengthening ties with the Republic of Biesel.

Policies of note:

• Reforms: The Union's main focus is on economic reform, with no current plans to enact or repeal social or political reforms unless necessary for the continued function of the Nralakk Federation.
• Megacorporations: Megacorporate involvement in the Federation's economy is a core issue of the Free Skrell Union. Megacorporate operations are considered vital to the growth of the Nralakk Federation's economy, and their expansion within Federation space is deemed a priority. Unlike the Federalist League, the Union wishes to encourage competition and rivalry between megacorporations and the State-Owned Enterprises, believing that competition is key to innovation and economic success.
• Foreign Policy: The Union will attempt to continue the Federation's current relationship with the Solarian Alliance while at the same time furthering relations with the Republic of Biesel. The Free Skrell Union has no special interest in developing relations with any other entity elsewhere in the Spur.
• Traverse Autonomy: Traverse autonomy is not a concern for the Free Skrell Union, but does believe that megacorporations are key to further developing the Traverse and industries found within it. No plans are in place, but party members have expressed an interest in creating corporate-controlled colonies and installations within the Traverse.
• Nlom Relays: The Nlom Relay Network is considered a hindrance to the cultivation of ideas and innovation within Skrellian society. Policies regarding the limitation or dismantlement of the network will be pursued by the party where possible.

Federation Enforcement

Enforcers, or Kala, are responsible for upholding the law within the Nralakk Federation. Functioning in a strict hierarchy, the Kala are governed by a legislative body known as the Nralakk Federation Security Council. Formed in 901 CE as a means to unify all enforcement branches after the unification of the Commonwealth of the Three, the Kala were regarded one of the most important bodies of the Nralakk Federation, as Skrell who devote their lives to ensuring the wellbeing of others and their society.

Their doctrines revolve around mobility, flexibility and precision. Whereas other units use a blunt approach, the Kala instead aim for the permanent neutralization of the situation - surgically striking to prevent it from growing out of control. Presently, the Kala maintain two core objectives. Firstly, ensuring the safety, security and cooperation of all systems under the Federation flag and protecting their borders. Secondly, reaching out to foreign communities outside their borders, be it within the Traverse or even the human Frontier. Representatives describe these operations as purely altruistic, aiding these communities both from a protection and economic point of view as part of the "Unity Initiative Project". One such example of these operations was the Nralakk Federation's involvement in the S'rend'marr Coalition. The Skrell civilians providing aid there suffered little casualties, with the advanced technology of their nlomkala protectors dissuading any ALA strikes.

The unique emblem of the Sromkala

Sromkala

"Prevent & Protect."

Sromkala, translating to Dream Enforcers, are Skrell selected to ensure that major planetary dreambubbles are safe from malicious lucidity. Agents are selected for their high psychic potential to oversee the Srom to ensure that no illegal or anti-Federation activities occur, particularly through the malicious use of Nlom-capable devices. They are commonly situated close to Nlom Relays - using the technology to amplify their capabilities tenfold. It is said that for every Nlom Relay across the Nralakk Federation, there is a Sromkala nestled within a special cryogenic pod that allows for their body to be in suspended animation, but allows their minds to project and continue working within Srom.

The unique emblem of the Nlomkala.

Nlomkala

"Service with Excellence."

Nlomkala, or Wake Enforcers, are often compared to police across alien space. The Nlomkala are expected to ensure the stability and safety of the Nralakk Federation at a physical level; mostly pertaining to simple duties such as patrolling, executing warrants and responding to emergencies relayed by the Ruupkala. There are extensive requisites to join the Nlomkala - ranging from athletic ability, understanding of the law and mandatory public relation classes to ensure that those selected to join can respond to situations correctly. Nlomkala are also expected to operate both on land and beneath the waves of the various planets across the Nralakk Federation.

Recently, the C'thur Hive has began to supply the Nlomkala with Vaurca Warriors to bolster the Nlomkala's forces. These Warriors are largely from Vytel's brood and have been loyalty implanted, making the Federation's orders equal to those of a Queen's. If the Warriors experience a conflict of interest, they enter hibernation until it's resolved. Thankfully, due to Vaurca adaptability, these Warriors function just as well underwater as above it.

The unique emblem of the Ruupkala.

Ruupkala

"Always Vigilant."

Ruupkala - or Intelligence Enforcers - are the Federation's official security intelligence agency, designed around the need to maintain Skrell harmony as unobtrusively as possible and ensure a safe position in galactic politics. While one of the most respected Kala, their agents are often characterised as the least martially inclined of the enforcement branches, owing in part to Federation media's efforts to present them as dedicated and principled data gatherers. Similarly, the agency's role is declared strictly as internal and focused on counterintelligence; public Federation figures often praise the Ruupkala non-interventionist policy and dismiss accusations of espionage as ignorant of Federation policy, or malicious. The only exception to their internal operations policy, Ruupkala also tend to keep tabs on the various Representatives throughout the Orion Spur, ensuring both their safety and that their work is satisfactory. Largely, this is accepted by most nations as the Ruupkala will only monitor the Representatives and not interfere with any diplomatic functions in any capacity.

The Ruupkala are rumored to monitor the fabled “Drylist”. This list supposedly holds the names of all Skrell living abroad who have performed deductive behaviors against the Nralakk Federation, displayed worrying ideals, joined an opposing faction, or renounced their citizenship. Some theorize that this list even covers non-Skrell who may pose a threat to the Federation.

The unique emblem of the Qukala.

Qukala

"Perpetually Primed."

Qukala, or Star Enforcers, function as the Navy of the Nralakk Federation. Ranging from soldiers, to highly qualified personnel educated in engineering, or medical. Positions within the Qukala often require degrees from recognised universities across the Nralakk Federation, meaning in only very rare circumstances will undereducated candidates be considered for the Qukala. The Qukala is one of the most powerful Navies in the Spur, due to the Federation's old age and advanced technological level.

The Lukala was a branch of the Qukala once comprised of only Dionae and Vaurca, but as of 2463, the Directory of Defense Operations decided to dissolve the subbranch in favor in of integrating Dionae and Vaurca into the lower ranks of the Qukala as full members. This decision largely stemmed from the success the Lukala had in stopping insurgent activity in the Travese during the fallout of the recent Election. Furthermore, after striking a deal with the Grand Council, the C'thur Hive (namely Vytel's brood) have begun to supply a steady stream of new Warriors for the Qukala. These new Warriors have a Federation-designed Loyalty Implant that equalizes the Federation's orders to that of a Queen's. If a conflict of interest arises, the Warriors merely enter hibernation until the conflict is resolved.

Qehalak

"Duty and Homeland"

The Qehalak, or Homeguard in Basic, is a new branch of the Qukala formed as a result of the Traverse gaining increased autonomy following reforms agreed upon by the Independent Traverser Movement and the Nralakk Federation; with the increased autonomy granted to the Traverse, the responsibility of defence now fell on local government rather than the central government and Qukala.

The primary objective of the Qehalak is to provide the main defence force for the Traverse states, with each state organising, training, and equipping its own force, while also acting as an auxiliary force where required by the Qukala during domestic operations. The Qehalak not only allows each Traverse state to properly defend itself from internal and external threats but has also lessened the burden of the Qukala, which was solely responsible for the military defence of the Nralakk Federation; events involving the Ti'Raqki and the Independent Traverser Movement concluded that a centralised force was no longer effective in properly responding to security threats within the Federation.

The Qehalak is a part-time, voluntary organisation, which relies on local governments to equip and train, and has been compared to the early Tau Ceti Foreign Legion - both favourably and unfavourably. Some praise the concept for its potential to further secure the Traverse, while others have raised concerns regarding the potential for inconsistency in the quality of Qehalak organisations between the Traverse states. As the organisation was only formed recently, the accuracy of these concerns is still unknown.

The unique emblem of the Tupkala.

Tupkala

"Courage, Bravery and Dedication."

Tupkala, usually shorted to Tup, are highly revered Skrell. Only those with a long, distinguished career are capable of being elevated to the position of a Tup; a position that encompasses increased security clearance - as well as minor Idol status. Tupkala are able to originate from all the other branches of the Kala, but are additionally trained and implanted to prevent any security breaches in the unlikely event that they are captured by enemies of the Nralakk Federation. These Skrell are commonly in their advanced age, with the mean being that of 276 years. When a Tup dies, their name will be added to the Tupkala Wall hosted in the Grand Councilor's Chamber on Kal'lo.

The Tupkala serve a variety of roles within the Federation. They dedicate Tups to the protection of prominent figures, black sites, and Special Operations. Oftentimes when the Federation needs something done quickly and quietly, the Tupkala are called to carry out the operation. Tups are rarely spotted outside the Federation, though that does not necessarily mean they are not present. Utilizing various Tupkala from the various different branches, Skrell who have pledged their unquestioning loyalty to the Nralakk Federation, aided by loyalty implants not different to the discontinued line released by NanoTrasen.

In 2463, after a series of diplomatic incidents caused by Tupkala operating outside their orders, for the first time in history the Tupkala were disbanded, following Grand Councilor Weashbi's condemnation. A few months later, Weashbi rebuilt them with Skrell he personally handpicked from the other branches of the Kala. The Tupkala are now under Commander Kezoq Torq-Bep, Weashbi's chosen Leader. Oddly enough, Commander Kezoq was promoted from the Sromkala, an unlikely place to find candidates for the Tups.

OOC Note: Characters that were former Tupkala are not allowed.

Espionage

The act of spying and gaining confidential information is a long-held tradition for the Skrell. The use of subterfuge and other clandestine operations replaced the more traditional forms of warfare since the time of the War of the Tides, and is seen as a more "noble" form of war compared to open conflict. The Federation has a reputation throughout the Orion Spur for its intelligence and counterintelligence capacities, being able to wage a conflict without the need for its navy and the advanced military technology at its disposal. This has led to many conspiracy theories regarding the nation and its people, which only serve to further reinforce fears that none are safe from the reach of the Nralakk Federation.

Targets of Espionage

Not all of the Nralakk Federation's operations abroad are to the detriment of the entity in question, and many acts of espionage committed by the Federation can be seen as benign or even benevolent. Agents can be tasked with multiple goals, depending on which area they are tasked to infiltrate:

• Bureaucracy, the strategic identification and assessment of resources within a bureaucratic state. Publicly known to be implemented internally, as spies will infiltrate local governments to report back to the Grand Council on discrepancies regarding production quotas or the use of resources. The Federation has an interest in this area abroad as well, helping it determine how effective or efficient another nation's bureaucratic process is and using that information to the benefit of its Representatives.

• Media, the infiltration and interference in all forms of media to the benefit of the Skrell and Federation. Usually subtle, the Federation employs journalists, Idols, producers, and even civilians to influence public opinion. This is seen most commonly on Viv-ID, as the social network will routinely be flooded with pro-Federation propaganda along with other methods to censor or otherwise hinder access to certain information. The extent of these operations abroad is unknown, but it is believed that it mainly consists of exporting Skrell culture and media to promote positive opinions of the Nralakk Federation and Skrell as a whole.

• Academia, the monitoring and interference of research and education. Educators, scientists, and even medical professionals are tasked with securing Skrellian dominance over science and technology across the Orion Spur. It is assumed that the Federation both hinders and encourages scientific progress by sabotaging projects related to concepts such as AI research while assisting projects that could be later stolen and repurposed by the Federation for their own uses.

• Militaries, the monitoring and infiltration of foreign military organisations, pirate fleets, and other military threats to Federation security. The military capabilities of the Federation's neighbours and enemies are of great importance, and a massive effort is dedicated to this sector of espionage. Outside of monitoring, agents focused on this area of espionage will poise themselves to decapitate opposing forces, destroy supply lines, or otherwise hamper efforts to attack the Federation.

OOC Note: It is an acceptable idea to play a Federation Spy aboard a SCC Vessel, but such a spy would have excellent training and prioritize maintaining their cover above all else. If you do wish to make such a character, be sure the Skrell Lore Team approves of their existence. The categories above give an excellent overview on what goals these characters would have.

The Traverse and Independence

The Traverse is a collection of systems that are considered the frontier of Federation space. Stretching from the Second Waves, the second-oldest set of systems colonised by the Skrell, to the far edges of Federation territory, the Traverse plays a vital role in supporting the Nralakk Federation.

Despite this importance, the Traverse is seen as a backwater by Skrell hailing from the inner systems, and those that live in the region are regularly labelled subversives or criminals. Combined with the Federation's apparent lack of urgency when it comes to dealing with situations such as famine, disease, piracy, or natural disasters, this has led to many in the Traverse holding a dim view of the Nralakk Federation and their place in it.

This animosity is only further exacerbated by the Traverse's history, especially in regions further out from the centre of the Nralakk Federation that have only recently been reintegrated under Grand Councillor Weashbi Jrugl; systems that were not present for the Tresja Agreement have slowly been reintegrated since, with the last of the Traverse rejoining the Federation in the last decade.

These factors have given rise to numerous movements that call for an independent Traverse in some form; the Lyukal, as a whole, believes in an independent Traverse state or states, while more local movements may only be concerned with their planet or system gaining independence from Federation rule.

Independent Traverser Movement

The Independent Traveser Movement is the latest group to call for Traverse Independence. Formed on 30/06/65 after a series of protests and civil unrest in the Q’elpi region, brought on by TIME under martial law as a result of local authorities collaborating with Marauders active in the area. When formed, the movement presented a manifesto that laid out its concerns to the Grand Council regarding many policies used by the Nralakk Federation, their primary concerns being the mistreatment and misrule of citizens in the Traverse by the Nralakk Federation. Grand Councilor Weashbi Jrugl responded cordially to this formation, agreeing to a meeting in the Grand Council chambers where they promised a discussion on potential reforms.

By August 26th, 2465, the Independent Traverser Movement suffered a schism in its ranks as more moderate members decided to come to the negotiating table with the Nralakk Federation. Events leading up to the schism, including the discovery of weapons being shipped to the Marauder systems and the occupation of government buildings, revealed that the movement's actions went against the more peaceful nature of the species and the originally non-violent activism of the movement itself. Both sides have agreed to make a genuine attempt to end the conflict, and hopes are high that a peaceful resolution will be met.

With the successful conclusion of negotiations between moderate leaders and the Grand Council on 04/09/65, the Independent Traverser Movement has officially been disbanded. Leaders of the movement that met with the Grand Council now hold permanent Advisor positions on the Council, advising on Traverse Affairs as well as overseeing the Committee for Traverse Well-Being, a body within the Grand Council in charge of crisis response in the Traverse.

Reconcilliation Tribunal

The Reconciliation Tribunal was organised on 21/09/65, shortly after negotiations ended between the Independent Traverser Movement and the Grand Council. The tribunal consisted of members of the Grand Council, the Independent Traverser Movement, and other notable citizens who were impacted by the conflict that began in the Q'elpi Systems. The tribunal was organised with the idea of "reconciliation, not revenge"; the primary goal of the tribunal was to provide restorative justice for any crimes or miscarriages of justice it investigated, and not to punish either side more than what was deemed fair by Federation standards. The tribunal has been compared positively to the Lao'qa Courts during the Collaborator Trials, which were used as a model for its organisation and goals.

The Tribunal interviewed and tried hundreds of citizens who had direct involvement in the events surrounding the Independent Traverser Movement. To prevent bias due to the media and other factors, the tribunal was held in secret and only revealed once the tribunal was already over.

Sentences varied, but most were given light sentences that included imprisonment or mandatory stays in a rehabilitation centre. Other sentences were carried out, such as the demotion of a Kala officer whose decision-making was deemed incompetent and uncharacteristic of a member of the Kala. A known leader of the Independent Traverse Movement was also given a harsher sentence than most, being sentenced to 75 years in prison for their part in several acts of sabotage against Federation facilities. The tribunal's focus on restorative justice was called into question in the case of the latter but was justified by members of the tribunal due to the egregious nature of the offences committed.

Traverse Accords

The Traverse Accords are a set of reforms and other policies enacted by the Federation in response to the Independent Traverser Movement and the issues it brought forward. The reforms include changes to the legal status of Tertiary Numericals, allowing those in the group to access state resources if they are considered "in good standing" by the Federation, as well as economic and political reforms that address the impact of production quotas as well as increasing the autonomy of Traverse sectors. The reforms are significant due to the comparatively sudden change in the status quo they resulted in compared to how a change in Federation policy usually occurs.

Relations with Foreign States

Solarian Alliance

The Solarian Alliance sees the Nralakk Federation as their closest ally within the Orion Spur, both economically and as a force to help preserve the status quo if anything seriously threatening galactic stability or if an unrecoverable disruption of the balance of power had to occur. Whilst there are whispers of many that fear the potential growth of the Nralakk Federation into the wildlands that the Solarian Alliance still seeks to return to the fold, their relationship has continued to prosper even after the turbulent events that nearly brought the Orion Spur to its knees.

The Solarian Alliance has the most Representatives of the Nralakk Federation within its borders, who typically work alongside one another to maintain the relationship between both nations. The recent events that have resulted in the shrinking of the Solarian Alliance has prompted additional Representatives working within its borders; seeking further avenues in which the Nralakk Federation can expand their influence within the Solarian Alliance. The Solarian Alliance and Nralakk Federation have several agreements; mostly related to trade, research, and migration.

At the moment, the Alliance and Federation are both working with Einstein Engines to create a new type of Warp Gate to alleviate the Spur’s reliance on NanoTrasen phoron. Though one of the prototype gates was destroyed by the late Solarian Warlord Beauchamp.

Republic of Biesel

In most official capacities, the Republic of Biesel maintains positive relations with the Nralakk Federation to the beneficial trade that occurs between the both of them. Politically, it is mostly the same, however there is a growing number within the Republic that have begun to view the Nralakk Federation as untrustworthy due to their lack of intervention during both invasions of Tau Ceti. Tau Ceti is one of few places outside of the Nralakk Federation that is considered worthy of visiting by Skrell; resulting in an increased demand for visas (tourist and work) for Tau Ceti.

The Republic of Biesel, at any given time, has roughly the second-largest amount of Representatives of the Nralakk Federation within its borders. Following the events that nearly crippled the Orion Spur, the Nralakk Federation has begun searching for another way to increase their influence within the fledgeling republic; mostly through the use of foreign aid, and restricted technological exchanges. The Republic of Biesel has expressed interest in increased diplomatic ties with the Nralakk Federation; mostly involving concessions for Megacorporations to be able to freely operate within the political entity. The Nralakk Federation has affirmed that they see the Republic of Biesel as a valuable diplomatic partner, and publically wishes to increase diplomatic ties with them.

Coalition of Colonies

The Coalition of Colonies is somewhat public about their opinion of the Nralakk Federation, stating that they are suspicious of the foreign policy boasted by the nation, alongside its authoritarian system. They also view the Nralakk Federation as Sol-aligned, and therefore anti-Coalition of Colonies by association. Whilst there are talks about economical cooperation, however, both the Coalition of Colonies and the Nralakk Federation would be able to produce large quantities of wealth off of one another.

The Coalition of Colonies sports a few dozen Representatives of the Nralakk Federation within its borders, mostly tasked with improving the relations between the two behemoths. The inaction of the Nralakk Federation in the Second Invasion of Tau Ceti has resulted in quite a stir within the Coalition; many citing that the Nralakk Federation is no longer pro-Sol, with others perpetuating rumours that they simply bide their time and will soon be launching an attack on the Orion Spur. The Nralakk Federation has publically announced an interest in exploring additional diplomatic avenues with the Coalition of Colonies; however, little effort has been seen in regards to this.

Empire of Dominia

The Empire of Dominia maintains a publically ambivalent relationship with the Nralakk Federation; politically and economically. Hardly any effort is exerted in regards to the Nralakk Federation officially, with some more liberal merchant factions rooted within proposing trade with the Skrell. Unofficially, the Empire of Dominia is split ideologically in regards to the political entity. Many both like that the Nralakk Federation has taken steps in restricting artificial intelligence, but there is also a sizable group that hates them for being the first ones to create it.

The Empire of Dominia maintains only six Representatives of the Nralakk Federation within its borders, focusing on creating opportunities for trading, with little success. The inaction of both the Nralakk Federation and the Empire of Dominia during the latest turbulent events of the Orion Spur has resulted in the warming of relations somewhat. The Nralakk Federation has displayed minor interest in exploring the relationship between the two entities but has yet to engage in such diplomacy.

Serene Republic of Elyra

The Serene Republic of Elyra has publically maintained that they are suspicious of Federation encroachment, as well as interference in human affairs, in lieu of the Solarian Alliance's collapse - despite this, they continue cordial if a bit distant relations with the Nralakkn Federation. There are whispers that many within Elyra see the Nralakk Federation as an ally against the Lii'dra should they return. They are economically disinterested in the Nralakk Federation, as the Serene Republic of Elyra has continued their self-sufficiency since the collapse of the Solarian Alliance, and the trade that the nation does conduct are mostly done with the Coalition of Colonies and the Republic of Biesel.

The Serene Republic of Elyra has roughly two dozen Representatives of the Nralakk Federation within its borders, with a focus on technological cooperation. The inaction of the Nralakk Federation during the recent events that haunted the Orion Spur has resulted in relations between the two technological giants to become somewhat cold, with a large migration of Representatives back to the Nralakk Federation. The Nralakk Federation publically supports a minor interest in exploring a relationship with the Serene Republic of Elyra, a technological one, that is.

Eridani Corporate Federation

The Eridani Corporate Federation has made the Orion Spur very aware of their interest to pursue additional economic cooperation with the Nralakk Federation, citing that it is a massive market for Zeng Hu Pharmaceuticals, and Megacorporations found within the Board of Five. The closeness of the Nralakk Federation and the Solarian Alliance has resulted in cordial relations between these two federations, with a significant amount of both the entities' wealth being invested into one another.

The Eridani Corporate Federation maintains the third largest following of Representatives of the Nralakk Federation within its borders, with most focusing on exploring additional economic cooperative avenues that will enhance the wealth of both. The inaction of the Nralakk Federation during the Second Invasion of Tau Ceti has resulted in somewhat weakened relations; however, the Eridani Corporate Federation publically maintains that the Nralakk Federation is a crucial member of its economy. The Nralakk Federation has all but ensured that the Eridani Corporate Federation will soon benefit from proposed deregulation of the skrellian economy.

People's Republic of Adhomai

The People's Republic of Adhomai attempts to secure a respectful, diplomatic relationship with the Nralakk Federation; mostly in part due to its policy of approaching alien powers for support in the Adhomian Cold War. The People's Republic of Adhomai has essentially pushed for cordial relations between them and the Nralakk Federation resulting in increased cooperatives, mostly involving the "Project Unity Initiative" - a diplomatic agreement in which the Nralakk Federation commences humanitarian aid projects and provides monetary assistance.

The People's Republic of Adhomai has roughly three dozen Representatives of the Nralakk Federation within its borders, mostly focusing on administrating the "Project Unity Initiative" and facilitating diplomacy between the three warring nations on Adhomai. The inaction of the Nralakk Federation during the recent Solarian Invasion of Tau Ceti and resulting collapse that turned the Orion Spur on its head has not had an impact on the relationship between the Nralakk Federation and the People's Republic of Adhomai. The Nralakkn Federation recently broke it's stance of neutrality in regards to Adhomai. After an attempted terror attack on District 8 in Biesel's Mendell City by radical Al'mariist insurgents, the Federation officially recognized the People's Republic of Adhomai as the sole civil authority of the planet and began to support their claims politically. It's unknown to the public if the Federation is offering more material support behind the scenes due to both nations' private nature.

Democratic People's Republic of Adhomai

The Democratic People's Republic of Adhomai has little to no relations with the Nralakk Federation; mostly due to the xenophobic nature of Al'mariism. The Nralakk Federation is viewed by many within the Democratic People's Republic of Adhomai's borders as a threat to their independence and future; which usually devolves into accusations of imperialism by various prominent politicians. Even the most progressive of Al'mariists maintain the dislike of the Nralakk Federation.

Due to the recent attempted terror attack in Mendell City, relations between the two political bodies dipped to the worst in history. The Federation took the planned bombing of District 8 as an unfettered act of aggression against Skrell. While the Federation had always believed the Democratic People's Republic a threat to Adhomai, they now hold the position that Al'marrists are a threat to the greater Spur aboard as well.

New Kingdom of Adhomai

The New Kingdom of Adhomai, due to its precarious position, maintains an official intention of establishing positive diplomatic ties with the Nralakk Federation; mostly in hopes of establishing the "Project Unity Initiative" within its borders. The turbulent history of Adhomai has resulted in somewhat lukewarm relations between the New Kingdom of Adhomai and the Nralakk Federation, however, what relations that did exist were irrevocably obliterated when the Federation announced their political recognition of the People's Republic of Adhomai as the sole civil authority of the planet.

Despite the incident that caused this change in the Federation's political stance being caused by Al'mariists, the Federation has been unyielding in political channels to reverse this decision, to the woe of those in the Kingdom who had hoped to benefit from the Project Unity Initiative. The Federation retracted all political ties with the New Kingdom of Adhomai, and declared the state illegitimate.

Izweski Hegemony

The Nralakk Federation was one of two nations to make first contact with the Hegemony alongside the Sol Alliance, and jointly operated the Ouerean provisional government with them. Following Hegemon S’kresti’s demand for the return of Ouerea, the Federation withdrew completely from Uueoa-Esa and had little formal contact with the Hegemony for over a decade, remaining focused on their own affairs. In 2466, following political upheaval in the Federation and economic difficulties in the Hegemony, the two nations worked to restore their relationship, signing the Nralakk-Izweski Mutual Prosperity Agreement.

This treaty opened trade between the two nations, as well as making provisions for the use of Hegemony ports and stations by the Qukala and sending humanitarian workers to Moghes. Though some Hegemony lords were initially opposed, most public enmity towards the Skrell was silenced after the Izaku Rebellion, with few willing to openly align themselves with the traitorous Lord of Mudki. In the Federation, the Homeworld Traditionalist Coalition has argued against the agreement, though most of the other parties have backed it for their own myriad of reasons.

The two nations have close ties, though trade through the Sparring Sea remains risky due to the presence of pirates, smugglers, and privateers - requiring great effort from both the Qukala and the Izweski Navy to ensure that trade routes remain open. Nevertheless, the agreement has forged a strong bond - and one that seems to promise a new approach to the wider Spur from both nations.

The Commonwealth of Hieroaetheria

The Nralakk Federation and the Commonwealth of Hieroaetheria have close ties, with the Federation playing a large part in the formation of the planet's most influential nation. The Federation has a permanent embassy in the city of Nral'Daaq on the planet, which is also the location of the majority of Skrell that live here. The Nralakk Federation has long-established trade and migration agreements with the Consortium, with the latter allowing for a somewhat easier citizenship process for Dionae originating from Hieroaetheria, and the former allowing Hieroaetheria to export goods to the Nralakk Federation on a barter basis similar to their local economy.