Diplomacy A Crown of Fire || BSS Annexation of GA Controlled Hapes Cluster Superhex

[Tavius Rhyven]

ANS Eternity
Alongside Alexandra Feanor​

As he understood the situation, it was rather bleak. On one hand, the previous Queen Mother had been killed by the Chancellor’s significant other in defense of the Chancellor. Whether he should have been there and engaging the Queen Mother was a moot point as he saw it. The Queen Mother who had taken over for her was now dead, probably at the hands of the same people who were now engaging the system's picket force. After all, Hapes had a history of underhanded politics wherein one person would kill another in order to assume their role in the hierarchy of the system. That said, they were all female, so the emotions involved made them more volatile, as well.

At the words from the Senator, he turned his head from the viewport, though not his body, to regard her. She was a staunch supporter of the GADF and mobilizing additional forces in their battle against this new Galactic Empire. He appreciated that, but at the same time, she was not his superior here, and his ultimate goal was the defense of the Alliance. That could very well mean the sacrificial release of the Hapes Cluster, especially given they, of late, have not been very welcoming or interested in the Alliance.

“I assure you, Senator, that my primary interest here is the defense of the Alliance,” he said, turning his head back to the viewport. “If they would kindly stop firing on the alliance picket force immediately, I would appreciate it. This clearly needs to move to diplomatic discourse.”

A part of him itched to take command of the picket force, which clearly wasn’t faring as well as it should have been, and take the attackers to task, but that would just make things messier. If the Hapans wanted to be independent as they continuously pleaded for of late, then they needed to make an effort to stop the piracy themselves, and they needed to call off whomever was attacking. This was not an appropriate measure for redefining themselves and if they were going to leave, he had a list of demands that needed to be met by the new regime or else there would, undoubtedly, be further bloodshed.

Tavius recognized that not everyone wished to remain a part of the Alliance. The notion of previous leadership that systems could not withdraw from the agreement they had made was, without a doubt, against the spirit of what the Alliance stood for. If they no longer wished to be allied, forcing them to remain was not the proper answer. That was an Imperial tactic that had no place being found amongst Alliance personnel. While he did not wish for the Hapans to leave the Alliance, he ultimately knew that what they wished is what mattered.

“Enough blood has been spilled here. Transmit the request for a ceasefire.”

OUTFIT: Link | GEAR: Pistol
TAGS: Alexandra Feanor | Monaray Dod | Mauve du Vain | Aurellia | Mercy ​

 

[Mercy]

"You have to admire the audacity."

She tilted her head slightly towards Mauve but most of her attention remained with the Trade Federation representative. "Do I?" Mercy murmured thoughtfully as she considered that concept. "No, I don't think I do... but I certainly will enjoy making use of it." She finally said, just as soft, only for Mauve's ear.

"When his audacity will rupture a war where I can do what I do best."

Every fiber of her body wanted to be the one to ruin the fragile peace being established here. It would be so easy. Take a boarding shuttle, pierce the Alliance flagship and simply... begin to rampage.

Until they would be forced to fight back and make this into a pretty dance.

 

[Quinn Varanin]

//: Delsin Shaw //:

Delsin's insight into the meaning behind her words surprised her. But it shouldn't have surprised her. He had been around her long enough to learn small tells. Quinn had never been good at hiding her body language, despite how small each movement was. They were easy to pick up if someone was paying enough attention.

Knowing that he was probably not the only one who could read her as easily as that was in this room. Quinn adjusted herself in the seat, and she did her best to remain focused on the conversation. With each passing moment, more and more of the Alliance was popping up on the radars. Hapes was a beautiful port, one that they had destroyed in their attempt to control it.

Pity.

"Thank you." She offered him a knowing smile.

The man was correct; her mother had never seen men as second-class citizens. They were equal and brought their own talents to the table of society, but would yield the power to the women. Even now, from her understanding, her sister was the head of the clan on Eshan. Besides Delsin, Augustus was another she didn't mind. She hoped her nephews would grow up to be like their father.

"Second class?" She questioned, looking at Delsin. The Princess was educated in the ways of most civilizations; she had been told that Hapes was much like Eshan. It seemed her lessons weren't up to date, or she misunderstood.

"Hmm, women own most things on Eshan, but a man can still make his way." Her fingers continued to play with the small rings and clips on her choker. Her mind wandered how Hapes was, with the Alliance and the two raids -- she wondered if the way of life continued.

"We'll have to see then, either way, I trust our friends in Black Sun and their appointment. From what I've heard, she's strong, smart, and the best for Hapes."

Her voice trailed off, remembering that those were things people said about her sister as well. Unlike Noelle, Quinn was impulsive, stubborn, and lacked her sister's perfection.

"You should come more often into Black Sun territory," Quinn smiled as she kept her gaze forward.

"I think you'd like it."

 

[Delsin Shaw]

|| Quinn Varanin ||
|| Aboard the Battle Dragon ||
​

The small thank you was returned with a simple nod. Enough that she could see out of her peripheral vision. My fingers still playing with the coin. Flipping it end-over-end between my fingers. Slowly moving between them. Practiced and with a quickness that showed I had done this many times before. It was not fast enough to draw attention. Just something to keep my hands occupied as it filtered between my fingers back and forth. A deep breath taken in as the conversations continued. Many others who had shown up also seemed a little on edge as well. Considering it was the Alliance who had cause problems with the Hapes planetary government and then was unable to protect them from the incoming wave of the Empire's curtain.

It was then the two words of the question were posed towards me. Asking directly about second class. I smiled a little and made a quick glance over to her. Nearly daring to mention how she needed to get out of her castle more often, and read something other than those Lady Velvet Novels. However, I held my tongue and looked back to the gathering.

"The Hapans came from selective breeding Quinn. Women choose a mate for the purpose of being beautiful. If a man is not to their... standards, then he is cast aside. No worth than menial labor jobs. That is Second Class."

It was a mere moment of speaking about the long history of their people. But what happened to the men who were considered, ugly, or not worth mating with? Essentially, all of Hapans were related in some form due to selective breeding done for many generations. All starting from problems with the Jedi. Ironic that it is happening again nearly two eons later.

"I am sure the Black Sun Representative will do well. They have the mind for business. And I feel that is what the Hapans want. Someone who will get them back on track. Not keep them on the side."

However, what truly drew my attention, even causing me to stop fidgeting with the coin, was Quinn voicing that I should come to the Black Suns Territory more often. Even stating that I would like it. I looked at her for a moment before nodding my head.

The dogma of the Sith was not so prevalent. Not hidden behind some Blackwall and guarded like the gates of the Netherworld. Even Cerberus would be jealous of the effort the Sith Order went through to keep their planets hidden from others. Locked behind the curtain to keep others out. As if instead of keeping something out, almost as if they were trying to trap something in. To keep something hidden from everyone. Even their own people.

It was also different from the Mandalorians. They were a Warrior race and culture of people. Always ready to fight and do so for some coin. Working with Aether due to familial relations between my father and his, made it easy for me to become friendly with the man. However, With so many of the conflicts showing up, it seemed the Mandalorians were taking a back seat. Not entering any conflict at the moment. Naturally, I knew it was because they didn't want to draw the Ire of anyone currently. They were still fortifying their positions after dealing with the Gravesong War, and then their Black Summer. So right now, was the perfect time for me to find someone else's pie to stick my fingers into. The closest and likely easiest one to get into was the Black Sun Syndicate.

Criminals that preyed on common people, all the way up to those who did High Class crimes. Including the Galactic Kaggath tournament. Which honestly, still felt like a rip off. I did want to find who was all responsible for rigging the game, but that was small fry compared to finding the bigger fish of their market and economy.

"As long as you don't pay to have water dropped on me in public, I'll be around."

A slight joke about what happened in the past. Knowing it would at least garner a smile from the woman. the coin began to flip in my fingers once more as I became more relaxed. My next words jokingly prodding about the situation, but accented in my tone as if each word was a hammer hitting an anvil. Even when whispering.

"Ask for Ice next time, and I will personally see you find the consequences quickly."

|| Alexandra Feanor | Mauve du Vain | Mercy | Monaray Dod | The Madclaw | Koda Fett | Nero Drake | Razmir Tezhyn | Velzari Tharn | Magdalena Bloodscrawl | Drakon Teague | Isur | Aurellia | Jerec Asyr ||​

 

[Drakon Teague]

Koda Fett | Razmir Tezhyn

Drakon and his men were getting restless and bored. Oh Drakon understood the politics. The Trade Federation was playing a bold move demanding the Rifle Worlds, but honestly Drakon was fairly blaise about the whole thing. It was out of his hands so why worry about it. He thought about interrupting the negotiations, making a scene, or rather he had the amusing though to do so, but he let the thought pass. Instead Drakon scanned the room for someone interesting to approach. Luckily he found it. Koda Fett.

The man was a legend in the Bounty Hunting world just like his alleged ancestral relation or was it just an homage? Drakon didn't know, but he appreciated the theatre of it, to tie yourself by either blood or reputation. Drakon decided to say hi.

Drakon and his crew made their way over.

"Koda Fett. Captain Drakon Teague of the Skull & Bones pirates." Drakon introduced himself.

Drakon eyed the man Koda was talking to and gave him a nod.

Bloodfang his Devaronian was pocketing a goblet. Drakon sighed and rolled his eyes. Grabbing him by the neck Drakon. Bloodfang yelped and started guiltily. Drakon normally would scold him loudly but this time he kept it to a harsh whisper.

"Next time you pocket something I'm taking a knuckle from your pinkie!" Drakon whispered.

"Sorry Cap'n." Bloodfang muttered.

 

[Aurellia]

A - C R O W N - O F - F I R E
Mauve du Vain | Velzari Tharn | Monaray Dod | Mercy | Alexandra Feanor | Tavius Rhyven

Velzari’s suggestion grew ever more enticing the longer the Neimoidian prattled on. Not Tambor’s crude intervention - but to answer fire with fire, as the Prince of the Underworld had so delicately put it. The carefully curated expression slipped, leading her to sneer at the thought of haggling away the rifle worlds like fish at market. To ask for them, after she had just denied foreign control? There was a similar bristling throughout the bridge. Aurellia's gaze found Mercy, whose bloodlust permeated the air. It broke the cloud of outrage, allowing her to see the game.

“Not yet,” Aurellia murmured to Velzari. “He’s baiting, but we may yet find something to sweeten this for us.”

She turned her attention back to the senator, features smoothing to reveal nothing once more.

“They should style you the Daring, Senator Dod, for imagining you could pry Hapan jewels from our crown. I will not yield the lifeblood of our defense and wealth… but you could share in it. The modernization of those facilities you mentioned, at a cost. Our fleet must grow if we are to hold our own in a turbulent galaxy. A pretty consulting fee, for your efforts. A contract with the Rifle Words, to secure any imported components thr-”

“Ducha,” The earlier comms officer interuppted. “we’re receiving a request for boarding and ceasefire from additional Alliance delegates.”

One brow arched as she considered an answer. The bridge was crowded with those who craved blood and glory - Aurellia among them. Yet there was a more satisfying victory to be had, with the Alliance bowing before their teeth even sunk deep.

“Very well. Let us see if your fellows bring better terms than this extortion, Senator. Hold fire, and bring them to me.”

The new party would be escorted to the bridge to present their offer, stepping willingly into the den of hungry lions.

 

[Velzari Tharn]

B L A C K - S U N - S Y N D I C A T E
A - C R O W N - O F - F I R E​

​

For now, Velzari nodded his muted acceptance of the Rebel Queen’s decision. While he believed the senator’s audacious actions would only fester if left unpunished, the Underlord was not blind to the economic advantages keeping the worm alive came with. Pirates, no matter how loyal, were liable to splinter after the enemies were plundered and their riches were divvied. Retaining a Federation presence, even if commanded by this pompous Neimoidian, could mitigate the damage of a rebellious pirate fleet should the Queen Mother lose control of her men.

An acceptable strategy.

Though Velzari would later remind her of Black Sun’s own fleet, should she lose faith in droids and amphibious charlatans. The slave crews of Velzari’s fleet were just as easily commanded, though they fight to win their freedom instead of doing so because their programming demands it. The human elements of fear and despair are the greatest motivators.

For now, Velzari remained an onlooker. A symbol of power and influence, a reminder to the Alliance that there are greater threats than Sith shadows in the galactic south. The secession of Hapes was a symphony, and Black Sun was its composer.

Tags: Alexandra Feanor | Aurellia | Jerec Asyr | Mauve du Vain | Mercy | Monaray Dod | Tavius Rhyven | OPEN
​

 

[Monaray Dod]

Alexandra Feanor Velzari Tharn Aurellia Mauve du Vain
Trade Federation Convoy, ( 1 ) Lucrehulk Class III Battleship, ( 8 ) Lucrehulk Class II Battleship

The Neimoidian had expected Ducha Aurellia staunch refusal to hand over the The Rifle Worlds to the Trade Federation for who would be dumb enough to ever accept such an agreement even if she did not have the backing of the Black Sun Syndicate.

Though it was the first rule of business, always present your idea as completely unacceptable so the other party would not be as hostile to further negotiation as anything else was far better than complete handover of sovereignty to an exploitive megacorporation.

He did not expect the Chancellor to send more representatives to quell the crisis brewing within the sector, as Alexandra Feanor and Tavius Rhyven would make this entire deal a lot more complicated.

"Senator Alexandra," Dod began, his void adopting a more neutral tone at such an unexpected interference in his plans to secure rights within the Hapan Cluster now that the former Queen-Mother was dead and no longer a threat to him within the Federal Assembly.

"Acknowledging your arrival though you could have not come at a worst time. Situation is entirely volatile and likely to become a burden to the Alliance Government. You may board the Hapan Vessel to begin negotiations but I will not rescue you should you become hostages." It was quite direct of him to express, yet the Neimoidian was unwilling to jeopardize open conflict with the Black Sun Syndicate by launching a rescue mission for the Alliance delegates.

He turned towards the holographic projection of Aurellia once more, "I appreciate your counter-proposal regarding modernization fees. However, the Galactic Alliance mandate requires more tangible, immediate guarantees of long-term stability than consulting contracts can provide. The Federation requires assurance beyond transient agreements."

"Perhaps we can reach a more mutual agreement such as The Trade Federation formally recognizes your provisional authority over the Hapes Consortium and withdraw our immediate tactical presence. In return, the Federation secures exclusive, long-term basing rights within the Corsair Outback. These bases would serve purely as logistical hubs and security outposts, guaranteeing free navigation lanes and rapid response capability." He leaned forward slightly, knowing that the Corsair Outback was a region of little development and not nearly as important as the Rifle Worlds. In terms of planetary comparison it was like Tatooine and Coruscant, both equally valuable to some people but one definitely more suitable.

 

[Alexandra Feanor]

Hapan Battle Dragon
Objective: Negotiate a lasting peace.

Equipment:
Sabers (Hidden in her Sleeves)
Spear (Held by Eve, kept on the Destroyer)
Robes​

---

Alexandra's feet moved smoothly, still wearing the silvered robes that she used to when she only remained home or around the Jedi. She had yet to truly understand the feeling of wearing something else, after all this was all she had known for the most part for nearly sixty years. It was like a second skin and she felt defenseless without the Robes in a way. She knew well that the appearance made her look more like a Jedi, but she had been certain to distance herself from the Jedi in regards to her official duties. Even now looking to her side at Tavius Rhyven, who she would speak up to.

"Vice Admiral, I thank you for your presence none the less." The request for a cease of hostilities was all too easy, and even if the Pirates attempted to continue conflict, the Alliance ships would likely withdraw and hold at a significant distance out of the system. There was no reason to get into a full scale war with the Hapes Cluster, it would be unnecessary lives lost when there were far greater threats.

It wouldnt take long for their shuttle to land on the Battle Dragon, and when the doors opened, any guards that the Hapans had likely been expecting were missing. Whether the sight was taken as Alexandra being confident, naive, or simply too trusting for her own good, she and the Vice Admiral would be alone. They walked quickly making their way to the room they were directed to and not wishing to waste more time for the Hapans.

It was when they arrived, the doors opening that Alexandra would step forward and take in the faces of the individuals. The Red Haired woman still unable to use her left arm at all and her voice still weak as she stood there before the others.

"Thank you for welcoming us. I hope that we can come to a understanding that is beneficial for your people and ours. I trust that Senator Monaray Dod has already brought forth options that are beneficial for the Hapes Cluster, and it is my greater hope that he took the opportunity to ensure that his own people benefited as well. After all, we are but representatives of our people first, and the Galactic Alliance is simply an extension of that." She knew well the reputation of those like the Trade Federation and Banking Clans. Even a thousand years later, they were still the same in terms of their reputation.

None the less, the long lived woman who looked no more than her early thirties would smile towards Aurellia and the others assembled, hoping to handle this discussion quickly. She already could sense the presence of those darker in the Force near her, her eyes turning towards them before giving them a smile. It showed no Hostility, not even a sense that she held ill will towards them. Instead the woman who's soul could be seen clearly only half and the half that remained was deeply corrupted would just welcome them as warmly as she had verbally the new queen.

Mauve du Vain Velzari Tharn Mercy Quinn Varanin Delsin Shaw

 

[Tavius Rhyven]

Indeed, the Alliance vessels within the system were instructed by silent communique to vacate immediately and cease hostilities with the pirate force. Regardless of their- less than savory origins- they were a legitimate fighting force and appeared to have the backing, at least in part, of someone of Hapan noble bearing. With the systems in a state of disarray over the death of yet another Queen Mother, it only seemed likely that someone would step in to fill the void that, shall we say, didn't have the blessing of the Alliance? But then, as he saw it, the Alliance didn't have the right to dictate leadership of the Hapan cluster, either.

Alexandra's response to his words were lost on him as he was staring out the viewport, strategizing within his head. He tended to do that. It wasn't that he was being disrespectful, it was just his way of undertaking his duties.

That said, he joined her in the shuttle with nothing but his sidearm for defense should things go south. However, as an officer of high rank within the GADF, the taking of him as hostage would ultimately be a bad move by this force of individuals, as the full weight of the GADF would come down upon them. He didn't expect that to be their response, though. No, they wished to solidify their claim over the Cluster, and they didn't wish for an open war with the Alliance, even under the immediate circumstances of the ongoing war with the resurgent Galactic Empire. That would be rather suicidal.

When they left the confines of their shuttle, he took a moment to look around him. He'd never been inside of a Battle Dragon before. It was quite different from the ships on which he'd served over the course of his career. The architecture was a bit too fanciful for him, but Hapans had different priorities when it came to life so it made sense that their ships would reflect that. He preferred a focused, utilitarian style, but that was a product of him being Corellian more than anything.

"The Alliance serves as a glue between worlds, helping them to work together for mutual benefit and defense," he added to what Senator Feanor said. "Something that in recent history has been lost in the actions of some individuals who believe that the Alliance supercedes planetary and system governmental authority. While we are meant to act in the best interest of all worlds, some forget to do so."

This was his way of saying that yes, he was there to represent the Alliance from a military standpoint, but that he did understand the position that the Hapan worlds found themselves in. Also that he would not stand in firm alignment of their realigning themselves in the galactic political structure if that was their wish. It also signified that, while he understood the situation at hand, and was sympathetic to it, there were matters that still had to be dealt with that were important to more than just Senator's Dod and Feanor. There were people from many Alliance worlds within the Cluster, and their well-being was paramount.

OUTFIT: Link | GEAR: Pistol
TAGS: Mauve du Vain | Alexandra Feanor | Monaray Dod | Aurellia | Velzari Tharn ​

 

[Isur]

These others were in his water. He would do what he was tasked to do. Defend the team, and be a body. Simple. Isur enjoyed simple. Perhaps why he did take up the matukai path when it was given. Something to work towards, but not much involved in the thought of the Force. It just was.

And it was in him.

Nero. He was the one Madclaw tasked with forming the boarding party. Was that quartermaster? Boatswain? Probably the latter. But as flask. Isur nodded. Revnog was always good. The Karkarodon took the flask and had a swig. Perhaps bigger than the smaller soft-skin species. But he did try to make it a point to not take it all.

Manners.

Ish.

Like when Madclaw came by. Isur kept his gaze steady, and tracked the legendary captain, but only intimidated in the slightest. Both were large species. Both were fighters.

Getting gunjack? That was going to make this fight even better. As part of his training, he did know how, and would, counter negative lasting effects. Sure he’d be less agile, but he never was to start out.

Mama Shark (doo do doo) always said he was a large pup.

As he imbibed, there was a growl, and in the Force, he vibrated with excitement.

Blood was going to be in the water.

The Madclaw Nero Drake Levi Dorne

 

[Aurellia]

A - C R O W N - O F - F I R E
Velzari Tharn | Monaray Dod | Alexandra Feanor | Tavius Rhyven

"I find this acceptable, Senator Dod. May our proximity sprout into a new friendship."

The Neimoidian was business through and through, and his proposition was boringly agreeable. Though basing rights posed its own threat, it was one to worry about for the distant future. By then, perhaps they'd have further leg to stand on, and Tambor's support of the new regime could be thoroughly secured. The representatives of the Alliance proved just as boring. The ducha toyed with her nails as they spoke, picking away any blemish from the claws. They were courteous, polite, all that was expected - save for the underhanded comment of the commander. His opinion was worth nothing to her, though it did make her wonder how their chancellor would fare come reelection.

"There is but one point to be discussed, Senator Feanor. Best not to drag this out."

Finally, Aurellia turned her attention back to truly regard the pair they had sent. A greying man dressed in all his defense force finery, and a senator who looked like she had just walked out of a temple. Fondor's finest, truly.

"Hapan independence is well underway. The Consortium will rule itself as a sovereign nation. Any further interference from the Alliance in either our monarchy or our domestic policy will be seen as acts of hostility. All non-negotiables. If you fight it, we both bleed, from Cluster to Core. If not... Well, my friends here are looking to make names for themselves in new systems, but..." Aurellia cocked her head, regarding the other occupants of the bridge and carefully choosing her words. "I'm sure with my cooperation, they could be guided away from Alliance-held worlds."

 

[Velzari Tharn]

B L A C K - S U N - S Y N D I C A T E
A - C R O W N - O F - F I R E​

​

'For now,' Velzari thought.

Black Sun was currently enjoying a budding friendship with the new Imperial regime that called the Core home, and like a remora swimming among sharks, the syndicate's power, too, would wax throughout the galactic center. Star systems would fly Imperial banners, field stomtrooper garrisons, and patrol their borders with star destroyers, but Black Sun's oily presence would always rest atop the waters. A viscous sheen visible to those who looked at just the right angle, but felt by all who entered its domain.

Aurellia solidified Hapes' independence and came to an amenable agreement with the Trade Federation that was likewise acceptable to Black Sun as it was to the Cluster. Velzari was pleased. A wry smile betrayed this, but it was only visible for a moment. With little left to discuss but logistics, the Underlord felt it was time to retire to his ship. The Soaring Fortune was waiting to bring Velzari to his next destination, Kwenn Station, where drinks and exotic hors d'oeuvres awaited. There were many machinations to plan and oversee now that one of the Alliance's bastions had fallen under the Black Sun's warm reach. He was eager to see its new Queen Mother bask in the syndicate's glow.

"If there is nothing else, Your Grace," Velzari said as he leaned toward the Queen, "I shall take my leave. We shall have drinks and discuss... future opportunities, but do not hesitate to contact me sooner should the need arise."

He leaned a touch closer, followed by an invisible aroma of pheromones. "Black Sun is never far."

Tags: Alexandra Feanor | Aurellia | Jerec Asyr | Mauve du Vain | Mercy | Monaray Dod | Tavius Rhyven | OPEN
​

 

[Alexandra Feanor]

Alexandra remained calm and watched the others in the room, her eyes studying all of them still and while she kept a warm smile on her face there was something under it. Perhaps Velzari Tharn and Aurellia would notice the look, but it was not them that were most likely to notice it. Instead it was Delsin Shaw and Quinn Varanin who found her gaze steady for a moment longer before returning to the topic at hand. And yet, even as her eyes left them the two would feel her gaze on them still, as if questioning what they would do next through means beyond the physical form.

But, just as Alexandra's mind wandered and she took notice of those around her, she too focused in on the players before her that were most important for her duties today. She listened to Aurellia's words, watched Velzari speak to them under their breath and without much ability to hear what was said. Even with Alexandra's heightened hearing, to listen to such words when she could not be certain of their context was difficult. So instead she just let her smile widen, still warm and welcoming. It was the smile of a Mother who looked as if she had caught her children in the midst of an innocent little plot to steal away some cookies or sweets before dinner.

"I apologize, it seems that the Alliance's stance on the matter isnt all that clear. I hope that my counterpart Senator Monaray Dod did not impress upon you that we have any intention for armed conflict. Alliance Forces were under the belief that Sith Slavers were still besieging your world. As that is clearly no longer the case, then there is little reason to concern yourself with continued interference from our people. Infact, if I might make the Alliance's stance clear for all in this room it is simple. The Alliance is just that, a collection of Allied Worlds under the charter and intention for a more secure and peaceful Galaxy. In failing those duties, a world or cluster of such worlds may choose to withdraw from the Alliance and go their own way. In governments where their people make up a representative body such as a Republic, they may vote in order to achieve this but in the case of a Monarchy, it is the Ruler's decision as to their membership within the Galactic Alliance." She paused, her voice clearly weakened as she tried to speak for such an extended period.

Those present would see her coughing, her right hand coming to her mouth as she did and the small stain of crimson showing on her sleeve. Those who could only see the surface would see just that, a weakened woman, one in robes more fitting a jedi and with a left arm that did not work. But for Mercy , Delsin Shaw and Quinn Varanin , such an assumption would be ridiculous and stupid as Alexandra's presence seemed to reach out, to take hold of the strands that composed the flow of the force. Her body acting like a loom as she drew in every thread, binding it through her and letting it continue to flow on.

"Apologies, the battle on Coruscant stole from me some of my wholeness... As I was saying. Your choice in membership remains your own, and the Alliance will not interfere with the self determination of the Hapes Cluster. There is no need for any threats, and far from it. Just as Senator Dod surely worked to address, the Alliance would instead seek to ensure our peoples maintain close ties, that there is still freedom to move between our worlds and trade flows freely. It is best to ensure that your people and ours not suffer in any ways through your choice to seek a more independent and free existence in your own way. Of course, in keeping true to this fact I would be the first to make clear that the Hapes Cluster and its member worlds will be granted an Observer Position within the Alliance Senate still, so that you and your people remain confident in our dedication to peace rather than conflict." She would pause once more, covering her mouth as another series of coughs and her weakened voice gave our near the end. Her eyes still clear though, still watching the new Queen and the Black Sun's representative who stood at her side. Still conscious of all the others in the room and still weaving the Force to her will without so much as lifting a finger to do so.

"Vice Admiral Tavius Rhyven is apart of the 10th Sector Armada, and surely served beside many of your officers. I am certain he will be happy to coordinate and ensure that your people are released from service within the 10th Sector Armada, and will ensure that Alliance ships have completely vacated Hapan Space of course."

 

[Magdalena Bloodscrawl]

Magdalena listened to the delegation communication from within Dod's ship and sighed.

They were just going to hand it over without a fight.

No matter what loss they had suffered so far, they were just going to hand Hapes over to a traitor queen and obvious terrorists.

Spineless Magdalena snarled silently in her head.

Magdalena had no intention of letting the Queen's rule go uncontested...

...but she also knew she would gain nothing if House Bloodscrawl interfered this day, aboard that ship, with so many Alliance personnel present.

She knew Nathan's story. Knew how a Jedi Woman named Alja Rippen (Who he later learned had a Hapan Mother) had once used a Gun of Command on him in his teenage years to force him to give her the master security codes to his Family's Castle. And how he had executed her after an absolutely brutal duel through his family's castle as it burned from the assault by the Essonian Military after the Castles defenses were lowered. He had received fatal internal damage as a result, forcing him to turn to her

Nathan had held a lasting enmity with Hapan Culture ever since. Not necessarily all Hapan Women, but she had once caught him punching a female Hapan Sith a little harder than normal until he had made sure she'd need reconstructive surgery.

But the Force said it better: Nothing will be gained of attacking Aurellia directly this day.

One day, though...one day the strength would be mustered to oust her, and punish her for her treachery.

Just not today. To attack now, at this point, would be a suicidal move. It risked making an enemy of The Alliance personnel who would be caught in the crossfire. And if he were captured, if he were unsuccessful, he would be branded a traitor to the GA should the former occur, or if he left some clue he didn't anticipate leaving.

She knew her son wanted to fight...

...but she wouldn't be doing him anything but a disservice if she didn't pull him back from the brink now.

Besides. There was a small back up plan. Aurellia would achieve her independence...but she would return to a Hapes with blood soaked streets to greet her.

After all, she could make the Alliance fold, under too many stresses to bother with an upstart.

But it was an insurgency of pissed off Hapan men that had felled Kha'la Daaray after a series of well executed attacks.

...and those men were not going anywhere...

Nathan had been cultivating those men in the absence of the rebel known as Kalen , having sympathized more deeply with him than even he could admit to himself.

Nathan went to her private quarters, and contacted him telepathically, using her blood magic to shield the transmission from others.

Son? she called out.

Nathan, in the process of preparing to depart with his clones in another disguised armor set from a stealth vessel, perked up.

Mother? he asked.

You have to pull back. These fools are just going to hand over the system.

A pause. She felt a simmering anger he was doing his best to get under control.

Feckless, LAZY, USELESS POLITICIANS! he shouted mentally.

I know it sucks, but look on the bright side...House Bloodscrawl will be able to feth with the Queen all we like, and the Alliance can't get involved. And besides...you can still give a welcoming present...

Nathan slammed his fist and left a dent in the hull of the hangar he was in. The Clones he had been about to launch a raid with noticed.

"We're pulling back..." He said. "The false Queen will face retribution for siding with Black Sun, even if we cannot attack her directly today. But she's not getting what she wants without incident."

Nathan headed to a private, encrypted terminal, and typed in a simple command that would reach the surface.

Execute Welcome Package.

Hapan Rebels, who had not forgotten the oppression of the Queen killed by Amani Serys , received the signal, having been on standby...

And then they drew knives and pistols.

They had been scoping out targets. Known female supporters of the previous Daaray regime. And new, fresh supporters of Aurellia...some had posed as servants , others, lovers over the course of a couple of months. Others, had simply shadowed their targets, memorizing schedules and patterns for weeks, waiting for the perfect moment.

They were committed, and hated the new regime as much as they had the old.

Hapan Women got shot and stabbed in the street in full view of screaming onlookers. Murdered in their homes.

When she arrived at her home planet, she would discover over one hundred Hapan Women who had been strong supporters of the old regime and a few of her own had been cut down in cold blood by Hapan Male Rebels all across the Capitol of Hapes. The rebels had fled into pre planned escape routes while authorities were still scrambling to react.

If the Alliance wasn't going to fight for its territory, and just cede it, that meant they wouldn't be around to deal with the Rebels the way the Alliance had been for Daaray.

Though the 'Queen' had narrowly avoided an assault today, one thing was certain;

The Shadow of Nathan Bloodscrawl loomed over her rule, and it was not about to go anywhere.

OOC: Sorry Henna, change of plans due to scheduling conflict

I really really did want to go for the Battle Dragon raid, but I can't like I originally planned due to OOC reasons.

As such, I have no choice but to bow out of the thread. Terribly sorry for anyone expecting otherwise. I really wanted to do the raid but I simply can't right now.

Alexandra Feanor

Quinn Varanin

Mercy

Delsin Shaw

Velzari Tharn

Tavius Rhyven

Monaray Dod

 

[Tavius Rhyven]

While Alexandra was explaining things, Tavius wasn't standing idle. The situation had been, as he knew, a foregone conclusion. They would leave the Alliance, as they had pushed to do before. It was fine. The nature of the Alliance was such that they had to be willing to accept that people might leave should they wish. The remainder of the Alliance would continue to function even without the Hapan's and their support. So, he'd sent several missives to the various fleet commanders, and to GADF headquarters, to make sure that the Hapans would be able to withdraw in peace, both from service and from the Alliance.

"I've already sent orders to allow the Hapans in service of the GADF to withdraw their service should they wish," he said when Alexandra finished talking. "We won't force them out, in case some wish to stay, but they're freed to leave with no reprisals. Additionally, I've issued the withdraw order for Alliance forces from the Cluster. This will, necessarily, take some time as we evacuate facilities, so I will demand you leave them alone while they withdraw."

Regardless of their desire to kick the Alliance out, they would have to wait a reasonable amount of time to allow for a smooth transition. The Alliance wasn't just about to leave equipment, personnel, or sensitive data behind for the Hapans to retain and, potentially, sell to their enemies.

"Additionally, we require that all Alliance citizens within the Cluster, I'm speaking of non-Hapans, be allowed to remain or to depart should they wish. Hapans will not be barred from Alliance space and we expect the same courtesy to be extended to Alliance citizens."

That was the two non-negotiable points that he needed to make, which left only one negotiable point. It was something that he wished to maintain for the purpose of the safety of the Alliance as a whole, especially with the location of the Cluster within the galaxy. It was probably something that would end up being slightly contentious, but as they were acquiescing to essentially everything that this new Queen was asking of them, then it seemed like she could comply in return.

"Lastly, I would like to request that we be allowed to freely travel, via hyperspace, through Hapan space should we need to. Your sovereignty will not be accosted by us, but we may have need to move to the other side of cluster by the most direct route."

OUTFIT: Link | GEAR: Pistol
TAGS: Aurellia | Velzari Tharn | Alexandra Feanor | Mercy | Quinn Varanin | Delsin Shaw | Monaray Dod ​

 

[Mauve du Vain]

Mauve snorted with disdain. "These people."

And she'd thought the High Republic diplomats were self-righteous.

But so long as the Syndicate got what they wanted…

Her datapad chimed. She glanced down at it and froze. A communique from one of her Hapan informants. News from Hapes.

Mauve moved languidly away from Mercy and drifted up to Aurellia .

“You’ll want to see this,” she whispered in the Ducha’s ear, then showed her the communique. It spoke of slaughter on Hapes - an underhanded and ongoing attack.

“Two guesses who.”

Hapan Women got shot and stabbed in the street in full view of screaming onlookers. Murdered in their homes.

 

[TK Olraen]

NAME: MIDNIGHT SUN
SHIELDS: 47%
HULL: 83%
SYSTEM STRAIN: 0%
CLASS: KHAMMU
TYPE: HEAVY FREIGHTER
REGISTRY: MON CALA
AFFILIATION: STARS OF HOPE INITIATIVE

TK's mission brief, as ever, was to lend aid to all distress calls without fear or favour. Over the last five hours she'd answered half a dozen: brought survivors to medical care, slunk around the Transitory Mists or accelerated through battle lines too fast for even interceptors. The latest call was planetside on Hapes, and though TK was no fan of planetside she was the closest ship lending assistance.

Terrorist attack, the channels said. She'd become accustomed to the crowded bridge of her Pathfinder frigate; running the Midnight Sun alone was far too quiet. The news reports and overlapping calls kept her company. By the time she made port at the capital she had a picture of the situation: coordinated assassinations, dozens and dozens of them, against the Black Sun-backed faction angling for the throne. (There were days when she questioned her commitment to the baseline Fallanassi principle of non-interference in governments and wars. This was not among them.)

Transmitting standard humanitarian codes and wearing standard humanitarian iconography, TK and a number of search-and-rescue droids fanned out through the stricken city to help whoever needed it. They rapidly had their hands full.

 

[Quinn Varanin]

//: Delsin Shaw //:

His comment made her laugh, quietly and hidden under her hand. Even in profound moments like this, Delsin seemed to find a moment to snap the tension. The worry Quinn had about their situation regarding Eshan faded as she settled more comfortably in her seat.

He had proven himself time and again as a companion that Quinn could lean on. She didn't feel obliged to offer him support in Black Sun territory; she offered it willingly. A grin swept across her face as she leaned further closer to the man, as he jested about the water.

"Do not tempt me with a good time, Delsin, you're giving me ideas." She laughed again between them. "I can't make any promises."

While her mind mused, something caressed just the edge of her presence. Her lips parted, curling into a smile as she realized what was happening. It seemed her channeled art of the small left a blip large enough for the Jedi to reach for.

Quinn focused her mind on the tendril, which was timid, almost asking for permission, but after the fact. It was the assumed consent that bothered the Echani. Her mind was precious, and so was her presence; she kept things concealed and locked away for everyone else.

If this Jedi wanted to see what was hidden away in the delicate wrapping of the Echani Princess, Quinn would oblige.

The reach from the Jedi would suddenly feel the pull of the dark side. It would linger, dance along the edges until a tight grip consumed it.

Through the brief connection, Alexandra Feanor would feel the pulse of the Phobis Core that resided within the Echani Princess. Her eyes never left the Jedi's until the connection was severed harshly. Quinn drew her presence back, smothering it in the Force, disappearing.

Her eyes would look from the Jedi as the ordeal lasted a heartbeat. The Zeltron and the Queen spoke quietly; something must have happened. The way one leaned into the other — something unexpected?

Quinn looked away and towards Delsin, "Guard yourself," she started, her voice hushed, kept between the two Echani.

"The Jedi, as usual, lack civilized natures and boundaries." Her eyes flitted towards the Jedi once more, a look of disgust etched in her delicate features.

"I think things might be getting interesting."

 

[Aurellia]

A - C R O W N - O F - F I R E
Monaray Dod | Alexandra Feanor | Tavius Rhyven | Mauve du Vain

The Prince of the Underworld was going to miss the fireworks. Aurellia let him leave with nothing more than a quiet nod to mention of plans. With the assurances she had made to Mauve to reinforce their fleets, those drinks would certainly follow some repayment of debt - but that was a worry for another time. Feanor was still droning, either in denial over the history that had warranted Aurellia's attitude, or ignorant of it. Either snake or sheep made no matter - the words failed to dazzle the Ducha. She had not joined the Alliance yesterday. Tavius was less lengthy, sparing her the sanctity charade, his demands agreeable... until Mauve stepped forward, her little birds earning their keep with their information.

"Thank you." Aurellia replied softly as she looked over the intel.

It was a reminder of why they were here, and a reason to show the Alliance. Fury had twisted noble features into something sinister. Every one of the victims seemed to be female.

"This is messy, even for the strategic intelligence agency." Accusation colored her tone. "They could not even wait until a treaty had been signed to carry out acts of terrorism on our soil?"

A fervent stride carried her the distance to put her within arm's length of the diplomats.

"Keep your hollow posts and promises. Your citizens will be released, save for one for every body we recover from the attacks that have just fallen Hapes. They are a safety assurance. Merchant vessels may come and go, but as of this moment, Alliance military ships are in restricted space. I suggest you take your leave of us, before my new allies take justice into their own hands."

Turning away from them, Aurellia moved to take the captain's chair.

"Charge ion cannons. Oh, and someone let The Madclaw know of the turn of events. I do know his crew was eager."