[Blaine]

The year is 2082, it has been five years since the Lone Wanderer crawled from Vault 101 and set in course a series of events that changed the wasteland forever. The Brotherhood with the support of the Lone Wanderer assaulted destroyed Raven Rock, dealing a damaging blow to the Enclave. Yet in the light of the attack, the Enclave launched a counter assault upon Citadel, the Brotherhood barely managed to hold the Citadel, many Brotherhood members were lost including the Lone Wanderer struck down in battle with the Enclave leader. Furious at the death of their compatriots and the damage done by Vertibird bombing runs the Brotherhood assaulted the Enclave post at Project Purity. Though the battle was long and costly they managed to prevail and forced the Enclave into a full scale retreat. The few Enclave posts within the wastes were left to fend for themselves until the Enclave mounted a rescue mission. Though the Brotherhood claims victory in the war, the loss of life and destruction wrought prevents either side from truly claiming victory.

In the next five years numerous city states have risen to power. Megaton has grown larger absorbing Spring Vale in the process, while the Outcasts are readying for an attack on the weakened Lyons Brotherhood over its long doctrinal differences. Tenpenny Tower grew to absorbing the Warrington Train complex becoming a regional power while Girdershade has grown into powerful trading hub for incoming Wastern traders, and similarly Canterbury Commons has become a hub for all Capital Wasteland trade. Pitt raids and Paradise Falls slaving runs keep the North in fear, while Talon Co. patrols are seen as far East as the river. Rumors of a Creed of spies occupying The National Archives and a league of ghouls living in the metro are heard throughout the wastes, while travelers and traders sail North from the mysterious land of Point Lookout.

http://www.gamesas.com/topic/1500771-columbia-ooc-16/

[Jessica Phoenix]

Simon Chang- Fort Constantine

Simon wasn't ecstatic, but the look on his face was plain. He was clearly proud to see this place. He'd only been here once, before The Pitt was here. It smelled of Old World military might. Now however, it felt stronger. The Pitt blatantly had no uniforms, but there was a raw and unrefined level of discipline plain to see in all the Pitt men running around. 'People call these guys raiders? Dear God, they behave more like an untrained military. They could easily be worth ten of our Capital raiders for every one Pitt man.' He removed the steel security case from the floor of the truck and got out. A man came up to them and extended a hand to Chang first. "Welcome to Fort Constantine General Chang," the man said with a tone of mixed courtesies, "On behalf of Lord Ashur of the Pitt." Simon nodded his head curtly as he shook the mans hand. "You must be the Mr. Ramsay that Mr. Crowley has told me of. I've heard it said your men were no different than raiders here, but comparing your men and women here with the raiders I've conscripted into the Olney military, I'd say that's a gross misgiving to your strength. I suppose it does help you though, underestimating an opponent has been the downfall of others in the past. But enough on courtesies let's move to the ICBM launch room, if I may ask. It's not a formal room if you guys haven't touched it up, but I'm not here for a tea party, I'd like it to be us three and us three only. What's to be said is meant for us and us alone."

Simon took a seat at a table in the small kitchen off to the side of the launch room and opened his briefcase. "Gentlemen, as you know full well, Olney, Paradise and The Pitt have their ideological differences. However, in the Wasteland, playing the moral puritan gets you killed more oft than not. I won't condone slavery in Olney territory, however, Olney shall aid Paradise and The Pitt in any situations that arise as far as trading goes. I'd like to keep Olney out of political conflicts that result in direct war between you and other parties. We will permit these Rangers and Regulators into our town, however, should any individual be seeking to be harboured there, they will be detained. To aid in this efforts, there is an empty office building for an old Pre-War law firm. Your two parties will be permitted a joint embassy of sorts in Olney to regulate issues of Falls and Pitt justice. However, and I state this openly so there is no veiled or grey wording, should an escaped slave make it to Olney, we will welcome them as a citizen. This is not meant as an affront, but if they can escape and make it to any civilised town, I feel they have earned their freedom. Do note this however does not permit our to actively molest Slavers in order to aide in escape. On that note, we will aid any slaver convoy in dire need of rescue or any wounded slaver who looks to be near death or dying of hunger and thirst, in return however, Olney asks the same of The Pitt and Paradise." Simon halted, pouring himself a glass of clean water and drank before continuing. "Moving on, Olney wishes for Paradise and Pitt officials to recognise our SatCom sites our ours explicitly and so are MDPL-21, a power station not far from SatCom B just east of Constantine and the Water Reservoir. The power station is being used to boost SatCom B's effectiveness but wish to extend water rights to The Pitt and Paradise for a nominal fee of 100 caps per full sized barrel of clean water. Pitt and Paradise men on patrol may drink for free and rest there. Upon successful talks here, we'd also wish to welcome The Pitt and Paradise to use our SatCom sites. The height of the towers allows much better reception than some dinky antennae. While I'm unsure if Paradise needs it, but if The Pitt wishes to expand influence here, this addition may prove helpful to your aims." Simon scratched his nose and sniffed a moment before continuing. "That's all I have to say for Part A of my agenda of these talks. Are there things you'd like to iron out or counter against before I ask we move on to Part B?"

[Angel Torres]

Ramsey, Fort Constantine

"You must be the Mr. Ramsay that Mr. Crowley has told me of. I've heard it said your men were no different than raiders here, but comparing your men and women here with the raiders I've conscripted into the Olney military, I'd say that's a gross misgiving to your strength."

"Hmmph. Those chem'd up crazy junkie addicts?" Ramsey said as he spit on the ground as a sign of distaste, "They don't even deserve to wipe the ass of a steelborn Pitt raider. But if you can turn them into a fighting force....then color me impressed General Chang. It takes a true hard military man to turn that lot into soldiers."

"I suppose it does help you though, underestimating an opponent has been the downfall of others in the past. But enough on courtesies let's move to the ICBM launch room, if I may ask. It's not a formal room if you guys haven't touched it up, but I'm not here for a tea party, I'd like it to be us three and us three only. What's to be said is meant for us and us alone."

"Aye, lets get on with it," Ramsey replied. And he Crowley, and Chang entered the CO quarters and continued down into the ICBM launch room of the Fort.

-----

Crowley, Fort Constantine Launch Room

Simon took a seat at a table in the small kitchen off to the side of the launch room and opened his briefcase. "Gentlemen, as you know full well, Olney, Paradise and The Pitt have their ideological differences. However, in the Wasteland, playing the moral puritan gets you killed more oft than not. I won't condone slavery in Olney territory, however, Olney shall aid Paradise and The Pitt in any situations that arise as far as trading goes. I'd like to keep Olney out of political conflicts that result in direct war between you and other parties. We will permit these Rangers and Regulators into our town, however, should any individual be seeking to be harboured there, they will be detained. To aid in this efforts, there is an empty office building for an old Pre-War law firm. Your two parties will be permitted a joint embassy of sorts in Olney to regulate issues of Falls and Pitt justice. However, and I state this openly so there is no veiled or grey wording, should an escaped slave make it to Olney, we will welcome them as a citizen. This is not meant as an affront, but if they can escape and make it to any civilised town, I feel they have earned their freedom."

"If they've escaped from the Falls itself," Crowley interjected as he listened to Chang, "Then they most certainly have. I'd probably offer them a job myself."

"Do note this however does not permit our to actively molest Slavers in order to aide in escape. On that note, we will aid any slaver convoy in dire need of rescue or any wounded slaver who looks to be near death or dying of hunger and thirst, in return however, Olney asks the same of The Pitt and Paradise."

"Since myself and Ramsey have already discussed the terms of our alliance," Crowley said as he turned to Chang, "I feel I can speak for us both in this matter."

"By all means Crow," Ramsey replied, giving a wave of his hand and leaning back in his chair, "I'm just here to observe."

Crowley then continued,

"I've already given word that Olney's patrols and trade caravans are to be given aid by my slavers if in need. Should they be in danger of attack by raiders or otherwise hostile parties, my slave crews are obliged to render combat assistance whenever possible. I'm sure Commander Ramsey's men will be given similar orders."

Ramsey nodded.

Simon halted, pouring himself a glass of clean water and drank before continuing. "Moving on, Olney wishes for Paradise and Pitt officials to recognise our SatCom sites our ours explicitly and so are MDPL-21, a power station not far from SatCom B just east of Constantine and the Water Reservoir. The power station is being used to boost SatCom B's effectiveness but wish to extend water rights to The Pitt and Paradise for a nominal fee of 100 caps per full sized barrel of clean water. Pitt and Paradise men on patrol may drink for free and rest there. Upon successful talks here, we'd also wish to welcome The Pitt and Paradise to use our SatCom sites. The height of the towers allows much better reception than some dinky antennae. While I'm unsure if Paradise needs it, but if The Pitt wishes to expand influence here, this addition may prove helpful to your aims." Simon scratched his nose and sniffed a moment before continuing. "That's all I have to say for Part A of my agenda of these talks. Are there things you'd like to iron out or counter against before I ask we move on to Part B?"

Crowley shook his head,

"That all seems reasonable. Please, continue General Chang," he said, as he prepared to listen to the second part of Chang's proposals.

[James Wilson]

Simon Chang- Fort Constantine, ICBM Launch Control

Simon nodded curtly, pleased to see he must have presented reasonable terms. 'Had it been Robert....' he didn't even want to think of the royal mess he would have risen. "Agenda B is where things are difficult. I understand our alliance is fickle at best, but there seems to be a mutual trust between us, however, while I do business with the Union, I can't say I trust Mr. Wilson or his men. I make no mistake in knowing they do no business out of the kindness of their hearts as they like to make it seem, but because they want a measure of control over factions. That said, Wilson is a snake, just like Westford was. But the more pressing concern is Sutler. While there is a moment of peace that has been bought and Sutler has agreed to treat the Germantown and Canterbury borders as our DMZ, so to speak, I can't confess I trust in his word. I make no aims to assault Sutler, but I have to have a plan should Sutler get flush with power or go mad and try to force annexation. Frankly, I question if anyone down in D.C. can be trusted. This man....This....Basilio? He seems to be a brown noser to Sutler from all reports I hear of his dealings. It's why he was left out of talks. Also, I want to unveil an idea I've juggled in my head before I issue a summit with other names. I hear some man from God knows where has been selling gold bullion. Instead of letting decadent fools like those in Tenpenny use them, I suggest we use them to help mint a coin that helps reflect a sort of crediting and debit system like the Old World used. The details are complicated and nor can I rightly say I understand economics fully, but if it stabilises the region to more civil things, it's useful. Obviously, given that most Wastelanders can barely read above a Pre-War 6th grader's level, this system is too complicated for day to day trading just yet. I was thinking this be done on a settlement to settlement basis. Before move on to talks about the fate of Constantine, are there things here that need discussing?"

[Bedford White]

Crowley, Fort Constantine Control Room

"Agenda B is where things are difficult. I understand our alliance is fickle at best, but there seems to be a mutual trust between us, however, while I do business with the Union, I can't say I trust Mr. Wilson or his men. I make no mistake in knowing they do no business out of the kindness of their hearts as they like to make it seem, but because they want a measure of control over factions. That said, Wilson is a snake, just like Westford was. But the more pressing concern is Sutler. While there is a moment of peace that has been bought and Sutler has agreed to treat the Germantown and Canterbury borders as our DMZ, so to speak, I can't confess I trust in his word. I make no aims to assault Sutler, but I have to have a plan should Sutler get flush with power or go mad and try to force annexation."

"Ah yes," Crowley said with a nod, "Sutler. To be honest General Chang, I see him as far less of a threat than yourself perhaps. Simply because my slavers have thus far worked extensively with the Enclave without cause for issue. In fact, as of the moment I owe Sutler a great deal thanks to his 'gift' from Megaton. That said....." Crowley continued, "I cannot deny that Sutler's military strength is a matter of some concern. While I don't believe it would happen...should he decided to invade the north and break his agreement with you, it would mean disaster. For all of us. The Enclave's military far surpasses the relatively meager forces we are able to bring to muster. Only the full marshaled power of the Pitt, I believe, could hope to stand against Sutler's display of pre-war might: in this region anyway. However, combined, us three here may still be able to resist such an incursion and make it impractical. Sutler, above all, values the lives of his men. And there's little he would do to prevent their deaths. A noble trait of course, but a weakness in many ways as well."

"As for James Wilson...." Crowley continued, "I have to share my sentiments that the man is a snake. A shrewd and clever businessman of course, but a snake nonetheless. I'm perfectly happy to work with the Union and continue to do so in peace. In fact the sight of their caravans are quite welcome, but with Wilson you must always keep one eye open, as it were."

"Frankly, I question if anyone down in D.C. can be trusted," Chang continued, "This man....This....Basilio? He seems to be a brown noser to Sutler from all reports I hear of his dealings. It's why he was left out of talks."

"Indeed," Crowley agreed, "Basilio I've not had the pleasure of meeting, but he seems at least to be a practical sort of man. I know Rivet City hates my trade with a passion, but he continues to deliver regular shipments of water north to Paradise. That sort of pragmatism is a welcome breath of fresh air from the militant moralists like the Brotherhood, the Regulators, and the Rangers. Its a nest of vipers down there in D.C. General Chang, and I'll be glad if the North can forever remain free of them. Speaking of which, I would like to ask you to act as a go-between for me to the Regulators and Rangers, in order to broker a cease-fire arrangement in the North. Its likely they will refuse of course, its in their nature to be stubborn, but I will at least have tried then. I want nothing more than to be left alone General Chang, and if the Regulators and Rangers halt their crusade against me: I would be more than happy to do likewise for them."

Chang continued,

"Also, I want to unveil an idea I've juggled in my head before I issue a summit with other names. I hear some man from God knows where has been selling gold bullion. Instead of letting decadent fools like those in Tenpenny use them, I suggest we use them to help mint a coin that helps reflect a sort of crediting and debit system like the Old World used. The details are complicated and nor can I rightly say I understand economics fully, but if it stabilises the region to more civil things, it's useful. Obviously, given that most Wastelanders can barely read above a Pre-War 6th grader's level, this system is too complicated for day to day trading just yet. I was thinking this be done on a settlement to settlement basis. Before move on to talks about the fate of Constantine, are there things here that need discussing?"

"An intriguing idea General and certainly a progressive concept," Crowley said nodding, "We will have to discuss it further. But as you mention it, there is something I'd like to bring up with you as well." Crowley then reached down under the table and brought up a briefcase, which he then clicked opened and pulled forth what looked to be a map and various other papers. As he spread the map out on the table, it clearly looked to be marked up. With a prominent line extending down from the trainyard to the Falls, and then to various other places,

"I've spoken about this project at length to Ramsey here, and via letter correspondence, to Lord Ashur himself: who is immensely pleased at the prospect. To be short about it General Chang, I'm proposing the construction of a railroad. As I'm sure you know, a train regularly runs from the Pitt to the Trainyard via a series of underground pre-war train tunnels that run from Pittsburg to the D.C. region. I'm simply proposing we extend that line down from the Trainyard to the Capital Wasteland proper. At first, the line would extend to Paradise Falls, but soon after the completion of that line, we could begin constructing lines to other towns: including Olney, Springvale, Canterbury, and even beyond. It would therefore allow for greater trade and transport mobility as well as connecting the Pitt and the D.C. area in a more significant way. Tons of ready-made Pitt steel and other trade goods could be run on this train," Crowley continued, tracing his index finger up and down the proposed railway line on the map. His voice betrayed his obvious excitement about the project, "Allowing for transportation of goods and people to and fro in a way that hasn't been seen in this area since the pre-war years.....and connecting the towns of the region and jump-starting growth and development of the townships of Columbia. Pitt Steel would be used to construct the railway of course, and I will supply slaves for the construction work, but I propose this to you, General Chang, because while myself and the Pitt have the combined resources to construct the railroad, we could use Olney's technical and engineering knowledge to ensure the project's success and make up where we lack. What do you say General Chang?"

[Jonathan Montero]

Simon Chang- Constantine, ICBM launch bunker

Simon had been prepared to reply in kind, but his responses fell apart at the proposal of a train. His eyes widened as he scoffed at all this. "A...train? Are you mad? I mean, no disrespect but....the terrain." He fingered the map's lines and continued, "It's just....there's so much that'd need to be cleared, security issues you'd need to address like this report of some nutcase militants some scout reported. Then a train, where are you going to get a damned control car for a train that isn't shot to hell?" Simon shook his head, clearly caught off guard by this plan. "I mean, look. I'm not saying it can't be done, but you can't just slap down steel bars and call it a railway. Olney can provide technical support. Old pictures, schematics and technicians, but this is just...well....monumental is an understatement." Simon yawned tiredly as he looked down at the map, "Sure, we'll help. Just make sure you build this right, not as some grandiose Westford/Sutler delusion of symbolic garbage. If it brings civilisation, I'm happy to help expedite it, but this is just a huge task to under take."

Simon mostly regained his composure from the shock of this massive plan but satisfied they were seriously planning this out than dikeing around. "And what about Constantine?"

[Chloe Yarnall]

Crowley, Fort Constantine Control Room

Simon had been prepared to reply in kind, but his responses fell apart at the proposal of a train. His eyes widened as he scoffed at all this. "A...train? Are you mad? I mean, no disrespect but....the terrain." He fingered the map's lines and continued, "It's just....there's so much that'd need to be cleared, security issues you'd need to address like this report of some nutcase militants some scout reported. Then a train, where are you going to get a damned control car for a train that isn't shot to hell?"

"According to Lord Ashur, the Pitt has several steam locomotive models in its trainyards which are serviceable," Crowley replied, "One is being used right now to transport materials from the Pitt to the trainyard. Its derelict and in desperate need of more repairs....but, it runs. Barely of course, similar to truck you have parked outside: but'll it'll serve its purpose until more substantial repairs can be made. Steam trains are workhorses, and they made them well in the pre-war years. It'll run General Chang, I assure you."

"As for the matter of security.....I'm far less concerned about this new faction and more concerned about raids from the Regulators or the Rangers. No doubt they'll try and fight this every step of the way. If it comes to it General Chang, would your soldiers help us defend this railway against them?"

Simon shook his head, clearly caught off guard by this plan. "I mean, look. I'm not saying it can't be done, but you can't just slap down steel bars and call it a railway. Olney can provide technical support. Old pictures, schematics and technicians, but this is just...well....monumental is an understatement." Simon yawned tiredly as he looked down at the map, "Sure, we'll help. Just make sure you build this right, not as some grandiose Westford/Sutler delusion of symbolic garbage. If it brings civilisation, I'm happy to help expedite it, but this is just a huge task to under take."

"Its a monumental task, no doubt," Crowley said with a nod, "And make no mistake, it will take many years for us to see it to full fruition. But I'd say we have a better chance than most in the region of completing it. The Pitt has more than enough steel to lay track from here to Chicago if we wanted to, and Paradise Falls and the Pitt combined can muster enough slaves to ensure the work is completed as fast as can be done. It will take careful planning understand, and by no means is Lord Ashur or myself taking this task lightly. Of that I can assure you. Lord Ashur in particular is a man who, when he sets out to complete a task, he ensures its completion by whatever means are necessary.

Simon mostly regained his composure from the shock of this massive plan but satisfied they were seriously planning this out than dikeing around. "And what about Constantine?"

"Ah yes, Constantine," Crowley said, as he took another paper from his briefcase, "I took the liberty of drawing up a document which should solidify this matter." He said, handing a copy to both Chang and Ramsey, "You can read it over, but I believe it covers everything we've already talked about. According to this, Olney shall be given full control of Fort Constantine and all its assets in exchange for it doing nothing to aid or otherwise harbor the Regulators or Rangers in Olney or any of its outposts. The Pitt, by the terms of this agreement, shall reserve the right to maintain a small enclave within the Fort, in the officer's quarters, which will act as a defacto embassy and a small outpost. By the terms of holding Fort Constantine, Olney will also not impede or otherwise prevent the slave trade along the slave road connecting Paradise Falls to the Trainyard. Nor shall it render aid or habor Regulators or Rangers at the Fort. Violation of any of these terms will result in Paradise Falls and the Pitt reserving the right to retake the Fort by force if necessary."

"Are these terms acceptable to both parties?" Crowley said, directing the question to both Ramsey and Chang.