Dominion Aggressive Negotiations | TIC Dominion of Empty Hex

[Eirys Santhe]

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Saleucami, Taleucema;
The Imperial Confederation;
Santhe Corporation.
Tags: Karl Von Strauss | Judah Dashiell | Nolle Tron | Marlon Sularen | Tertius C. Nargath

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"Just as we have stated since its inception, the Imperial Confederation will not repeat the mistakes of empires past. Our strength won't come from copying them, emulating them; it will come from partnerships. Contracts honored, investments secured, and risks shared. Like Prefect Tron, I share the same hope and want to build networks that will strengthen and build up the lifelines of the Confederation. But that's enough from an old man such as myself. I just hope my statements show the sincerity of how much we wish to amicably do business with you, Mr. Dashiell, and the other members of the Corporate Interests Guild."

As Eirys took her seat, she smoothed recesses and wrinkles in her suit, before reaching across the table to pour a cup of caf while listening to Karl Von Strauss as he elaborated on the mistakes of the Empire of the Lost and how it's nascent successor in the form of the Imperial Confederation would not repeat the same mistakes as seen during the Kilran Administration who came to power following the suspicious circumstances surrounding the downfall of the Voland Regime.

"Does the Imperial Confederation have proposals or pending legislation regarding corporations? I think we are all aware of how well received your last laws were received."

"I would like to know this as well," Eirys chimed in. "It would also be in the interests of Santhe Corporation to learn the safeguards that the Confederation is undertaking to protect commerce and free trade given it's recent declaration of war on the Sith Empire. The last time an Imperial regime declared war on the Sith it was consequentially isolated from goods and commerce coming in from the Core and Mid Rim systems after the Trade Federation of Planets designated a no-trade zone."

Turning her gaze to Judah, as she brought up the Trade Federation of Planet's letter to Velran Kilran , Eirys asked: "Do you know if the Federation intends to emplace an embargo on Imperial space following the recent insurgency in the Thandon nebulae? Or if the Corporate Interest Guild members would follow suit?"

As the question hung in the air, Eirys took a sip of the caf, before lowering it away from her lips to blow on it softly.

---

 

[Tertius C. Nargath]

OBJECTIVE ONE - CREDITS AND IRON

No acknowledgement whatsoever, strange, but perhaps somewhat expected from those of the Confederation, who'd most likely already be quite aware that the N&Z already had one of the best positions possible within the Confederation due to their logistical use and certainly the fact that several key members of the Imperial administration either had positions or ties with the company directly or indirectly.

Still, the way the older member of the Dashiels had been acting was... quite disappointing. the marquis wasn't sure if the man just outright hated him, his company or the policies his company upheld. Perhaps it was jealousy or envy of sorts, because the N&Z managed to actually grow within the regions those tied mainly to the currently failing Galactic Alliance simply had ignored for too long and now couldn't even get a mere finger between the door, let alone a foot.

He had at least hoped that propping himself up as a mediator of sorts would warm Judah Dashiell to him and would make the older Dashiel realize that Tertius and in truth, the N&Z was quite clearly a straw they could grasp at for support in this opportunity, especially since the N&Z was more than keen on bringing Dashiel Incorporated into the Confederation, considering their specialties and remarkable adaptability they had displayed in prior deals. However, perhaps it was Tertius' aggressive move on the CIS energy contracts and sudden withdrawal that had sparked some...tension. The Marquis didn't know and quite frankly, considering he had little if even anything to lose in this negotiation, he didn't exactly care all too much either. He had offered his help and would remain open for these negotiations at this time, but it would also be most likely the final time he'd openly support the CIG and its members, whose increasing hostility without proper cause was becoming quite the tiresome thing to deal with.

"I sincerely believe that being stuck in the past when it comes to trade is somewhat nefast for future prospects," The marquis' eyes turned towards Judah Dashiell , before switching in a momentary gaze towards the Santhe representative Eirys Santhe . "The Confederation has shown no closed trade protocols and has been open towards corporations willing to trade and negotiate for profitable ventures and opportunities within its borders. For instance, Maphoreem would benefit from the Dashiel's large mining and scrapping expertise, which in turn would allow you a substantial position within the Imperial market. As for the Santhe Corporation, while you have your legacy backing you, you could seriously utilize your newly established position as a provider of strong, durable parts and subcontracting of ships and military material in order to gain quite a large variety of contracts with the Imperial navy and military, where a certain expanse of contracted companies might effectively be a must."
​

 

[Ronhar Tane]

CAPTAIN RONHAR TANE, TK-3301
KIMELN HOLDINGS
OBJECTIVE II: IMPERIALIZATION

"Tane, we're pushing into the sewers, and we'll insert into the lower levels of Kimeln Headquarters. A large contingent of corporate militia is stationed out front, and I'm going to assume inside as well. I'd ask two parts from you if possible. Draw those men stationed in front of the building away, and then insert from the top floor so we can cover all building egresses."

The reply from Saltare Dothon was as swift as it was decisive. Still, it would be no easy task, considering the defenses stationed outside the building.

"Acknowledged, Inferno. Reclaimer Squad out", Ronhar replied as he and his team readied their weapons. As Ronhar peaked from around the corner, he counted scores of corporate militia, infantry fighting vehicles and weapons emplacements. Almost as if their target knew they were coming.

"Garhosl, what's the ETA on our reinforcements?", Ronhar asked his second in command.

"At least 20 minutes out sir", came the reply as Garhosl continued to coordinate with the Imperial Remnant's pilots.

The smart thing to do would be to wait for the reinforcing aircraft to join them. Unfortunately, Ronhar didn't have the luxury of waiting, as every passing second gave his target more time to escape. Plus, there was no way he was going to let Inferno Squad get the glory again instead of Reclaimer Squad!

"Understood. Here's the plan: the Peace Keeper will come in from above, open fire on the targets outside, and then hightail it out of there. With any luck, it'll draw away enough hostiles for us to engage and eliminate the rest of the defenses. After that, its grappling hooks to the top. Any questions?"

"No, sir, no!" can the resounding reply from Ronhar's men.

"Then let's get to it."

The Peace Keeper seemingly descended out of nowhere, its ion blasters and laser cannons blazing away at the defenders below. Caught off guard and completely by surprise, several militiamen went down in a hail of laser fire, and one vehicle was blown to smithereens by a proton torpedo. Just as quickly as it arrived, the Peace Keeper left, departing the scene of the crime as the remaining vehicles tore off in pursuit of it. Just as Ronhar had intended.

"Go! Go! Go!"

Ronhar and his squad leapt around the corner, blasters firing as they mopped up the rest of the local resistance. Once all the militia were dead and the weapon emplacements destroyed, Reclaimer Squad began attaching their grappling hooks to the bottom of the their weapons.

THUMP!

The sound of eight grappling hooks attaching themselves to the top of Kimeln Holdings reverberated across the street as Ronhar and his men began scaling the building, looking for access into the top floor. Having found a suitable large window, Ronhar took out his vibroknife and cut a man-sized opening into it, kicking in the transparisteel screen as he entered the top floor.

Reclaimer Squad was in the building!

"Inferno Squad, this is Reclaimer Squad. We have infiltrated the top floor and are heading toward the target's location Try to keep up, over", Ronhar said snarkily as he and his squad raced toward their target's location, hoping to find it before Inferno Squad did...

TAGS
Saltare Dothon
Marlon Sularen
OPEN

Time to get down to business...

 

[Judah Dashiell]

Turning her gaze to Judah, as she brought up the Trade Federation of Planet's letter to Velran Kilran Velran Kilran , Eirys asked: "Do you know if the Federation intends to emplace an embargo on Imperial space following the recent insurgency in the Thandon nebulae? Or if the Corporate Interest Guild members would follow suit?"

"I know little of the Trade Federation and their movements. I can't say we are close." Last Judah knew of the Trade Federation they were in deep with the Galactic Alliance. Given the changing landscape of the galaxy they were most likely looking to the next biggest and brightest thing on the horizon. "As for the Corporate Interest Guild, I would say the influence of the group as waned. There is little appetite among many to worry about the galaxy on a broader scale. Personally if you're looking for the Guild to lead change...don't hold your breath."

A disappointing turn of events, but what could one do.

The Confederation has shown no closed trade protocols and has been open towards corporations willing to trade and negotiate for profitable ventures and opportunities within its borders. For instance, Maphoreem would benefit from the Dashiel's large mining and scrapping expertise, which in turn would allow you a substantial position within the Imperial market

Brows furrowed slightly as the Marquis spoke, drawing some confusion from himself.

"You are a Representative of the Confederation? As in authorized to speak on their behalf?" If that was the case, this was a waste of time. The Marquis could have called him at home. "I'm not looking for anything from the Confederation, Marquis, beyond the assurance I will be allowed to freely trade and conduct business as normal. Entanglements with large governments invites restrictions. Restrictions I don't welcome."

Tertius C. Nargath | Eirys Santhe | Marlon Sularen | Karl Von Strauss | Nolle Tron​

 

[Marlon Sularen]

A G G R E S S I V E_N E G O T I A T I O N S
Objective I : Iron and Credits

IMPERIAL CONFEDERATION
SALEUCAMI, OUTER RIM TERRITORIES

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"I'm not looking for anything from the Confederation, Marquis, beyond the assurance I will be allowed to freely trade and conduct business as normal. Entanglements with large governments invites restrictions. Restrictions I don't welcome."

"The Marquis is merely trying to find a middle ground between the interest of the Confederation and the Guild, which is why this summit was called in the first place" Sularen interjected, weighing in the inevitable conversation about potential restrictions that the Confederation might place on Corporate practices. The inquiries of Dashiell and Santhe on the matter were valid especially given the harshness of previous decrees imposed by the now-defunct Dark Empire only, although there still needed to be some sort of balance between their interests and that of the Confederation.

"While we do understand your concerns, we cannot guarantee that there will be no restrictions placed on your practices." the Supreme Commander added. "You must understand that as a major galactic government we have our own interests and we simply cannot allow Corporations to roam freely and operate as they see fit without restraint. I've seen the consequences that happen when you place no restrictions on corporations or place harsh restrictions on corporations, and i understand that the best path forward is to find a middle ground that can actually work. Although what i can guarantee is that your ability to trade and conduct business within the Confederation will not be severely impacted."

"I'm a strong believer in compromise and mutual satisfaction Mr. Dahiell. If we are to reach the best possible deal possible then wouldn't you agree that our respective interests would have to be balanced to cancel out any concerns we both have regarding each other?"

Tags | Karl Von Strauss | Nolle Tron | Judah Dashiell | Tertius C. Nargath | Eirys Santhe ​

 

[Nolle Tron]

IRON & CREDITS

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Objective: Increase Imperial economic means
Location: Taleucema, Saleucami
Outfit:Imperial Prefect Uniform
Entourage: Prystill Oasay , Theelin assistant
Tags: OPEN | Karl Von Strauss | Judah Dashiell | Marlon Sularen | Tertius C. Nargath | Eirys Santhe
Dialogue Key: "Galactic Basic" | <<Theelin>>

The addition of Santhe Corporation to the meetings was a bit of a surprise to Nolle. Not that they did not fit the proceedings, but she did not recall inviting them and they were not to her knowledge part of the guild. Nolle did a good job of remaining even keel, but she did exchange a glance to Pry. The Theelin would know that special attention was to be taken at the actions of the Santhe.

Something about the Santhe Corporation's sudden revival struck Nolle as odd. Amarin's closeness to Lianna meant that most in the business community viewed the Santhe family with a certain reverence. Nolle had attended Rudrig University with several members of the family, and she had worked on several occasions with Vyllia Sancetti while they both represented Drey Incorporated. Eirys was not a foreign name either, but her quickness of ascent and the miracle donations that made Santhe Corporation's resurrection possible was strange. Couple that with Vyllia's apparent ousting from Lianna and one could be left wondering if Eirys had something to do with the shift in family power structure on Lianna. Putting that aside there were other things this meeting was actually for.

Talk spiraled as Nolle was focused on Eirys. Dashiell was looking for assurances of freedom. First questioning laws. Santhe then questioned the possibility of a new embargo by the Trade Federation. The Exarch and Marquis Nargath gave attempts at pacifying Dashiell, which led to more questions. The Supreme Commander had his input where he admitted there could be restrictions placed on corporations. Nolle sighed. Transparency was good and no government could promise complete autonomy, but that blow needed to be softened.

"The Sith at the time of Emperor Kilran's invasion were dubbed a good trade partner. Since then they have 'built' their Blackwall. I somehow doubt they are viewed the same way now. To be frank I believe that was merely a public excuse for a more personal reason for the embargo anyways. I see no reason to fear an embargo today," Nolle nodded to Eirys before turning to Judah.

"While there may be some restrictions put in place, as the Supreme Commander suggests, the Confederation does not wish to govern your companies. Any restriction to curtail marketplace conflicts and the like would be negotiated as part of Imperial contracts, which would be handled by COMFIC. That said you and your agents would be expected to act as my assistant," she pointed to Pry on the side. "Myself, or any other Imperial citizen. Commerce will not be a shield for espionage or dissidence against the Confederation within our territories. Such acts would be subject to arrest. Similar acts outside the Imperial borders would be grounds to revisit contracts."

 

[Tertius C. Nargath]

OBJECTIVE ONE - CREDITS AND IRON

​

"You are a Representative of the Confederation? As in authorized to speak on their behalf?"

"Not exactly, but due to my connections within The Imperial Confederation, you could say that I have enough influence to have greater success in opposing certain decisions which may or may not be disruptive to trade within the faction as a whole," It was a careful calculation, since yes...the N&Z Umbrella Corporation had some very close ties to the upper echelons of the Confederation, but certainly wasn't the only corporation to have such an advantage. However, it was still quite powerful and prominent enough within the Imperial Confederation through both hard and soft power, influence in both political and military spheres through deals, employment and proper deals having been set in place. Though Tertius had to admit that most of these latter ones ran through his personal assistant nowadays.

Having sat back into his chair, the Eriaduan noble looked at Amalia, whose gentle, slightly emotionless gaze, turning his attention towards Marlon Sularen and later on Judah Dashiell as they brought up their...issues, their rules, their apparent do's and don'ts. Even the words Prefect Nolle Tron managed to weave through the negotiations simply did not seem to hit the Chairman of the N&Z too much. It wasn't because the words uttered weren't true or were pointless, it was simply that they did not really pose a problem. If there truly was a problem, Tertius would not hesitate to stand up and be heard, but for now... nothing really managed to explain what the Prefect, her department nor her superiors had planned in terms of how to properly handle the economy, how to prop it up and make it viable. By their own phrasing, this inactivity either mean the Imperial Confederation was running dry on funds because it had not yet implemented any proper overarching economic policy yet or they had been stuck with a whole lot of planetary and sectorial trade agreements which may not have turned the Confederation's financial status into a swamp, but may have certainly burdened the coffers with extensively useless bureaucracy.

"You know what ladies and gentlemen," The Marquis' eyes slowly turned from the Prefect who was by all accounts in charge over the financial dealings of the Confederation towards the man who had supposedly put her in that position and eventually towards both corporate representatives. "I don't think any political meandering and bureaucratic wriggling is going to help you out when it comes to the introduction of foreign corporations, wealth and thus much needed credits into the Imperial Confederation's market. I may be speaking just for myself, but knowing simply what tax rate you are intending to apply is going to make or break the strength of your financial market. The N&Z is more than willing to offer independent contracts to other corporate entities in order to boost the internal market and secure a steady influx of foreign credits...However, I believe we can all agree that it would be in all of our best interests if we can jointly agree on terms and conditions for trade within the Confederation with a thoroughly discussed agreement which can allow us all to part ways with a smile on our face. Shall we dispense with the vague statements and begin this negotiation in earnest?

Turning back towards Judah Dashiell and Eirys Santhe , Tertius let out a soft sigh, before clearing his throat. "If possible, what are the tarriffs and standard rates you deal with in the Galactic Alliance? If we can have a proper comparison with those numbers and the Diarchy's numbers, I believe the esteemed members of the Imperial Confederation's government and we as corporate representatives can find a number we can agree on."

​

 

[Eirys Santhe]

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Saleucami, Taleucema;
The Imperial Confederation;
Santhe Corporation.
Tags: Judah Dashiell | Nolle Tron | Marlon Sularen | Karl Von Strauss | Tertius C. Nargath

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Wisps of caf steam rose up into the air before Eirys as she listened attentively to the meeting.

Her solemn gaze turned to Judah as he expressed a desire to clarify whether or not his business practices with Salacia Consolidated would be impeded by Imperial oversight, legislation or bureaucracy disguising illicit corruption rumoured to be rampant within the Confederation-- rumours which were not without merit given the publicised fact that Exarch Strauss of the COMECI was a known Director within one of N&Z Umbrella Corporation's subsidiaries which had the potential to expose bias or overreaching corporate influence upon a member of the Imperial Ruling Council under Empress Liraeth Deschart.

Eirys quietly expected that some of the old scrapers questioning somewhat exposed the business practises of Aina Holdings-- an agricultural, mining and manufacturing company located on the Inner Rim world of Tirahnn and who had sought expansion into the Outer Rim systems through acquisitions such as the Doonium mining operations on Lothal, and as evident by Makai Dashiell's father's attendance of this meeting.

No doubt the findings of the father would reach the son.

With the Core Worlds in disarray following the two year conflict called the 'Core Wars' and it's successor war in the form of the Galactic Empire's full scale invasion of the Galactic Alliance, if there were business opportunities to be had out here in the Outer Rim, then the likes of Salacia or Aina would make moves to secure new forms of commerce while their portfolios (in the much richer and luxurious parts of the galaxy) came under threat through the Dark Imperial March.

So, the inquiries and concerns raised thus far in this meeting were not without merit, particularly when one acknowledged the fact that Judah Dashiell was not an Imperial citizen. Not even in the slightest, or at least, until now given Saleucami's recent annexation by the Confederation following it's formation in 902.

But restrictions were inevitable when it came to corporation interests within this region of the galaxy given the politics and governmental practises of the Imperial Confederation whom ruled here. Imperial control and oversight were inevitable for this was what formed the basis of their identity and cause. A galaxy in disorder-- ridden with war, corruption and terrorism-- required the measured, efficient and punishing hand of the Imperial blade who sought to instil peace, order and rule of law through any means necessary, or so they continued to say.

Santhe Corporation understood this well and had adapted accordingly following it's revitalization earlier this year after it's former matriarch, Vyllia Sancetti , had been ousted from Imperial space and who had been subsequently replaced by the young, vibrant Liann industrialist who was now sat at this meeting.

Could the Salacia Consolidated, or, as Eirys suspected, Aina Holdings, do the same in these conditions?

Juxtaposing the identity politics and economic policies at play were the realisations and requirements for the likes of these companies, who were seeking to create or explore business opportunities in the Outer Rim systems, to set-up shop within the Confederation so that it would not repeat the same mistakes which had led to the collapse of the first occupation led by the Lost-Imperial. The risks for both sides were clear: corporate influence and greed which overshadowed or dulled the blade of Imperial authority as it imposed it's goals on the galactic stage juxtaposed with the desire to find new business opportunities and arrangements that were far and away from the conflicts fought within the Core Worlds.

"I'm a strong believer in compromise and mutual satisfaction Mr. Dashiell. If we are to reach the best possible deal possible then wouldn't you agree that our respective interests would have to be balanced to cancel out any concerns we both have regarding each other?"

Not if those interests involve dictating how Salacia or their associates conduct business elsewhere in the galaxy, Eirys thought to herself.

I can imagine the Confederation placing high tariffs, taxation or tolls on their commercial practises if they were to discover that the Dashiell were in business with organisations interlinked to the Sith, or to the Galactic Empire.

"The Sith at the time of Emperor Kilran's invasion were dubbed a good trade partner. Since then they have 'built' their Blackwall. I somehow doubt they are viewed the same way now. To be frank I believe that was merely a public excuse for a more personal reason for the embargo anyways. I see no reason to fear an embargo today..."

Taking the caf both into her palms, blowing lightly upon the rim to cool the contents with her breath, Eirys sipped the beverage while the Duros spoke. Indeed, the Sith territories found in the occupied Thandon Star Cluster were no longer open for trade, or commercial use, due to the raising of the Blackwall, and, of course, the recent attack on their strongholds by Confederation forces just a few weeks ago at the Battle of Brosi which would see to both sides ceasing any commerce between their respective star sectors in order to weaken the other side.

They were not of consequence to Santhe Corporation, Eirys knew. What concerned the Liann industrialist was the cessation of goods or services which came into the Outer Rim systems from regions unaffiliated to the Sith and who could follow leads made through the creation of a trade embargo led by the Trade Federation of Planets given that many of the materials Santhe used in the creation of their Aegis line stemmed from star systems that were either affiliated to the commercial practises of the intergalactic spanning conglomerate, or were tied directly into the conflicts affected the Core Worlds.

Durasteel is a metallic alloy widely used in the manufacturing of ship parts (of which Santhe Corporation were operational in that distinctive market) which are manufactured on industrial centres such as Corellia, Coruscant, Fondor and Kuat. With two out of those four worlds annexed by the Galactic Empire, therefore severing distribution of the alloy to places such as the Lianna system, would result in severe losses for Eirys and her company if Fondor or Corellia were to cease trade via Brentaal IV with the Confederation due to Federation influence in those respective star sectors.

Aegis products, such as the newly modernized adaptive hull system that Santhe Corporation had pioneered, were reliant on the steady supply and influx of Durasteel coming into the Outer Rim systems. Therefore her concerns were not alleviated by Tron's explanation and lack of insight into the Federation's practises given that the Imperial Confederation's recent attack on the Thandon nebulae which was similar to Velran Kilran 's attack on the Felucia system two years ago, which was believed to have been the core reason behind the invasion and subsequent destruction of the Tion system, which coincided with an Federation embargo some days later.

It was not beyond the pale to think that a second embargo, placed upon many of the same star systems previously occupied by the Empire of the Lost, could come into affect once again.

"...However, I believe we can all agree that it would be in all of our best interests if we can jointly agree on terms and conditions for trade within the Confederation with a thoroughly discussed agreement which can allow us all to part ways with a smile on our face. Shall we dispense with the vague statements and begin this negotiation in earnest?"

"...If possible, what are the tarriffs and standard rates you deal with in the Galactic Alliance? If we can have a proper comparison with those numbers and the Diarchy's numbers, I believe the esteemed members of the Imperial Confederation's government and we as corporate representatives can find a number we can agree on."

"My colleague from the Umbrella Corporation raises significant points that require negotiation," Eirys explained as she set the caf back onto the table, and smacked her lips to saviour the savoury, sweet taste of the caffeinated beverage. "While my other colleague from the Commission has explained that they do not think that a second embargo placed upon the Lianna system, or other Imperial worlds, will follow this recent declaration of war upon the Sith, I still have concerns for Santhe which also needs to be addressed..."

Situated in the centre of the table was a holographic projector capable of displaying the galactic map-- a common tool for meetings such as this as they discussed, debated and arranged new avenues of trade, commerce or customs set to affect their respective organisations. Eirys activated the device and programmed it to select Coruscant (recently renamed Imperial Centre by the new occupation), Corellia, Fondor, Kuat and the trading hub that is Brentaal IV which all begun to hover in the air above the group as they moved into negotiations.

"Until the Federation releases a statement, or inquiries reveal that no such embargo is set to come in place, then my corporate interests are at risk. Santhe products are reliant on the trade of Durasteel coming into the Outer Rim systems, and with two out of the four star systems ceasing trade of this alloy, has resulted in stress to our commercial activities that are at risk of being affected if Fondor or Corellia also stop trading as well."

Eirys turned her gaze the COMECI-Exarch, Karl Von Strauss , to ask him directly: "Is it possible that the Confederation could move to begin manufacture of the Durasteel alloy here in Imperial space? If so, what costs will Santhe incur through import taxs, or tariffs placed on shipping routes of the product? Will you make yourselves competitive with the Core Worlds?"

---

 

[Saltare Dothon]

A small wire led from Logan's armor into the control panel adjacent to the door that led into Kimeln headquarters. Beside the door, still sparking, was an automated defense turret that had activated as they approached. It could barely send a round out before Inferno Squad's returning fire tore it to pieces.

Inferno was stacked on the door, waiting. A small chime, a green light, and the door slid open nearly silently. The stack of special operations soldiers flowed into Kimeln HQ silently, guns sweeping sectors and getting a bead on any defenders, of which there were none.

"What's our route?" Saltare asked Logan, as the other squad member was set up at a nearby door.

"Stairwell through this door leads directly to our target, who should be on the 5th floor. Should." Logan stated.

Muffled detonations surrounded them as what could only be Captain Tane's forces began to engage the defenders around the building. Explosions rocked the building as dust fell from the ceiling, settling on Inferno's armor as the TIC forces outside gave what aid they could.

"Inferno Squad, this is Reclaimer Squad. We have infiltrated the top floor and are heading toward the target's location Try to keep up, over", Ronhar said snarkily as he and his squad raced toward their target's location, hoping to find it before Inferno Squad did...

"Are they not taking this seriously, or are they trying to one-up us here. I can't tell yet," Logan said.

"We copy Reclaimer," was all Saltare said as he responded to Tane. "New blood trying to make sure they're relevant," Saltare pointed out, "I'd rather have to pull someone back than push them forward. We should be glad they're fired up; we need that energy and morale. But we're damn sure not going to let some boot beat us to our objective. Stack on Logan, breach that door and push," Saltare snapped to Inferno.

A muffled thump sounded as Logan's breaching shotgun blew the stairwell, and Inferno pushed into it. The squad went quickly up the steps, the first member stopping at the next stairwell landing, pointing their gun up and holding the floors above them. The squad flowed past the anchored member, the first member becoming last and the next lead taking the same anchoring position at the next landing, holding the floors above. It was a smooth process, Inferno having drilled it and done it live many times.

"This is it," a newer Inferno member, Talin, stated as they neared the 5th floor.

Saltare scanned the building, looking for signs of life, and seeing them. Deep on the other side of the building from them, several individuals could be seen as his armor's system penetrated the walls with its scans. They were kneeling down, facing away from Saltare's men, arms held at angles that made it immediately obvious they had weapons. Behind some of the obvious security personnel were two other individuals standing closely beside someone who was hurriedly moving back and forth, no doubt the CEO of Kimeln, Pana Kimeln. Saltare scanned up in the direction the guards were looking, seeing more forms, Reclaimer Squad, coming down from above, right on top of the Kimeln CEO's personal guard.

"Corpos are on the other side of the building with the CEO," Saltare said to his men, "But I have a new plan." Saltare took a breath as what he said was going to annoy even him. "Blow this door with a detonator charge, get their attention on us, and we'll flush the corpos directly into Reclaimer squad above them."

"Sir-" Logan started.

Saltare's hand snapped out in a cutting motion as he spoke, "No disputes. The corpos are aware of Reclaimer and dug in, I won't let my pride get TIC forces killed. Blow this door. Now!"

A shaped charge was slapped on the door, and Logan waited for the go-ahead to blow it.

" Ronhar Tane , this is Inferno, we're gonna push the corpos to you. Get ready," Saltare said as he tapped Logan's shoulder.

The blast charge detonated, and Inferno pushed into the 5th floor. Weapons up, his squad moved across the office building, bounding from cover. As they neared the CEO's office, all hell broke loose. Kinetic and laser fire erupted from entrenched corporate security. Inferno responded with the same, and more.

"Thermals," Saltare barked over the blaster fire as grenades went out toward the corporate security.

Massive eruptions blew the 5th floor apart, throwing corporate security guards meters from their positions, and cementing the fact that if they didn't move, they would die.

And move they did. Saltare watched as the CEO, dressed in finery and carrying a briefcase, burst from the offices with his personal security guards covering his retreat to a nearby stairwell that would lead them directly into Reclaimer squad.

"Move up!" Saltare ordered, Inferno flowing after them and picking off what guards remained as they closed the distance on the CEO and his guards. Now it was time to see if Reclaimer could finish the task.

 

[Ronhar Tane]

CAPTAIN RONHAR TANE, TK-3301
KIMELN HOLDINGS
OBJECTIVE II: IMPERIALIZATION

Reclaimer Squad moved quickly but cautiously throughout the upper floors, looking for any sign of their target. Room after room turned up empty as Ronhar and his men searched for traps, always cognizant of the potential for an enemy ambush. Either their target was busy fighting with Inferno Squad or had already evacuated the building, though the speed that Inferno and Reclaimer had launched their attack made the latter possibility unlikely. Still, Ronhar continued to push as fast as he could while staying safe, determined to beat Inferno to the punch.

"Next floor", Ronhar growled as he and his men walked down the stairs single file. Another floor meant another million possibilities as to where their target could be hiding. Ronhar groaned internally as his forces fanned out. It was rather tedious work, but necessary all the same: the CEO was getting out of this building alive if Ronhar could help it!

Ronhar's commlink suddenly crackled to life as Saltare Dothon sent a message:

" Ronhar Tane , this is Inferno, we're gonna push the corpos to you. Get ready."

Well well well. It looked like Inferno was willing to share after all. Ronhar wondered what prompted the change, though he wasn't about to question it when a golden opportunity had literally been served up to him.

"Acknowledged, Inferno. Standby for the anvil", Ronhar replied as he and his men took up defensive positions at the end of the hallway. It didn't take long for the CEO and his bodyguards to come running down, completely oblivious to the danger up ahead.

A rather serious mistake to make, and the last one he ever would.

The CEO and his party never saw it coming. Ronhar and his men opened up immediately, sending a barrage of blaster fire straight at the CEO and his guards. They went down before they ever even knew what him them, and the whole engagement, if one could even call it that, only lasted for a few brief seconds.

Just like that, it was all over.

As soon as the blasting quieted down, Ronhar and his men began moving forwardly cautiously, still wary of traps or sudden ambushes. With as large as the complex was, one could never be too careful. Still, Ronhar reached the pile of bodies without incident, and his men began double checking the status of their targets.

Dead. Dead. Dead. One after the other, vital signs came up negative. It seemed that Ronhar had been particularly efficient in engaging his target. Still, there was one body left to check: that of the CEO himself.

A sharp groan gave it away before a proper scan ever could. Weapons immediately trained themselves onto the source of the noise: the CEO trying to crawl away with his life. In a sick way, Ronhar almost admired the man and his tenacity to live. After all, he could hardly blame him, and probably would be trying to do the same thing if the roles were reversed.

Of course, it was also a rather idiotic thing to do. Ronhar believed he would have had a better chance at surviving had he played dead. At least then, he might have been missed over in all the carnage. Still, Ronhar was nothing if not thorough, and probably would have found him out regardless.

One of Ronhar's men raised his blaster to finish off the CEO once and for all, but Ronhar prevented him from doing so, lowering the weapon toward the ground. After all, one favor called for another, and if Ronhar hated being shown up, he hated owing favors to other people even more. Ronhar activated his commlink:

"Reclaimer to Inferno, this is Captain Tane. Your gift was most appreciated, but I'm afraid you'll need to finish the wrapping yourself. Assuming you'd like to do honors", Ronhar said evilly as the CEO continued his futile attempt to escape.

Not that it really mattered who fired the final shot, since Ronhar's team had been the one that had actually taken him down. Still, he appreciated the gesture, though at this rate it would be somewhat wasted since Ronhar doubted that his target would survive for much longer...

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Saltare Dothon
Marlon Sularen
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Tis' the spirit!

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