Private [Black Sun] Kinship

[Velzari Tharn]

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K I N S H I P​

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With Black Sun rising once again, this time in the heart of Hutt Space, Velzari Tharn - Underlord of the Black Sun syndicate, Prince of the Underworld - felt it was finally time for a homecoming. Though, this trip would not be purely for pleasure. Wherever Velzari traveled, there was surely business to follow.

As the Soaring Fortune cut through Falleen's misty atmosphere, Velzari immediately felt a sense of calm wash over his scaly skin. In the privacy of his luxurious cabin, he allowed the hue of his scales to shift to an azure shade reflecting the serenity he felt. "Damn," he uttered in astonishment, eyes fixed on the clouds that parted around his yacht on its descent. He stepped into his wardrobe and donned a traditional Falleen robe that befit a man of his station, sliding it over his body and affixing its elaborate ornaments to his shoulders with practiced ease. By the time the Soaring Fortune had touched down in Falleen Throne, he was prepared both physically and mentally for his meeting.

"We've been cleared to dock, Prince Velzari," the pilot informed him. "A party awaits shoreside to escort you to Speaker Xivar's chambers."

"Very well," the Underlord returned. He stepped down the landing ramp, flanked by a pair of Black Sun foot soldiers, two Falleen who had also been distanced from their home by the business of the syndicate. Unlike their leader, however, the guards kept any audible reactions to Falleen's majesty to themselves.

They met the Speaker's welcoming party and exchanged pleasantries before being escorted through the city. Velzari's senses were overwhelmed with a blend of familiar sounds and scents that reminded him of simpler days, before the Underworld kneeled before his throne. Were Falleen not under the jurisdiction of the Republic, Black Sun would certainly call this world its home instead of the grimy Hutt moon where it was presently seated. It could be worse, he surmised; Nal Hutta itself was far worse off than the ecumenopolis of Nar Shaddaa. At least on the moon, Velzari's palace floated above the squabbling locals.

After a short walk, the entourage finally arrived at their destination. Velzari smiled at his surroundings, appreciating the classic Falleen architecture that enveloped him. He drew in a deep breath and held it in his lungs like a precious gift before exhaling.

"It's good to be home," he mused, then stepped into the Speaker's office.

Tags: Xazzex Xivar
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[Xazzex Xivar]

COURT PALACE, FALLEEN THRONE, FALLEEN

The Forbidden Palace was a safe haven of seclusion from the bustling, populous capital of Falleen Throne. Tucked away in a range of mountains with its various defense nets to ward out intruders, it served as the formal soul of their world's government. Staffed with countless bodies that meticulously kept the traditional structures in perfect condition at all times in case the Empress appeared, it was a thriving microcosm of Falleen all its own.

And it was not where they were meeting today.

It wasn't that the Empress thought too little of her guest, but that it was their first formal introduction. They would come with bodyguards cautious that their potential ally-seu-rival might just as easily dispense with them as accept their offer. Outsiders were rarely welcome on the grounds of the Forbidden Palace, and armed ones less so. That this meeting was happening on Falleen at all was because the Prince himself was of their blood. Certain accommodations could be made for a Son of Falleen.

The Court sat at the center of a sparkling, three spired structure in Falleen Throne. Despite some otherwise aged sections of the capital, the Court was a shining jewel might to invigorate any Falleen that laid eyes upon it. Provided they weren't being summoned because they'd been caught undermining proper Order in the city or elsewhere within their jurisdiction. Even Pirate Kings could be hauled before the court to answer for extremely questionable if not outrageous conduct. Not everyone was a valid target for piracy, and the Empress being saddled with cleaning up their mess was a good way to earn her ire.

Near the top of the center spire was the office where the Prince would be guided. The hallways were adorned in natural woods. Doors were a wooden framework with paper partitions that slid softly against a firm grass or straw-like material intricately woven as if thread. Artificial lighting was angled and hidden away to provide ample to see even within the interior corridors, while lantern accents feigned to be the source. Subtle, spicy scents floated idly through the air; just enough to tantilize until one's nose acclimated.

Servants on this floor wore elaborate robes of some of the finest materials. Those struggling just to survive would be jealous and click their tongue at material they'd never laid eyes on before, let alone touched or worn -- and likely never would. Officials wore even more extravagent robes with sewn trims and designs that must have cost a seamstress countless hours; and yet their attire still avoided being too 'busy' or garish to the eye.

One servant dressed in a 'humble,' plain dark blue robe bowed before the Prince and held out their hand toward the double doors at the end of a short corridor. They did not speak to someone of such high regard and trusted the intent was clear. As he stepped forward, two on either side of the doorway would gracefully slide the partitions open to reveal a large office beyond.

The entire backwall was decorated in the style of older traditions, with a large circular depiction of the Falleen Throne mountains and the Forbidden Palace in the center. Before the eye-catching decor sat a broad, wooden desk with two chairs before it. Large windows to either side let in an abundence of natural light into the chamber and afforded an unspeakable view of Falleen Throne.

The one that got to indulge in that view whenever she desired sat behind the desk in a black kimono with golden dragons woven into it. Her golden eyes were on an edict the Council wished to issue. Dark lips pressed together for a moment before she signed off on their effort. A relief to see they didn't need her constantly threatening them to do their duties. With that done, she set the edict aside and reached forward to lift her glass and take a sip of wine as the Prince entered.

It would be curious to see the manner with which he entered. There was so much potential that could be exploited between them; Xazzex looked forward to it.

Velzari Tharn​

 

[Velzari Tharn]

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The syndicate gunmen who accompanied Velzari were requested to remain outside, a measure he understood and took no issue with. Admittedly, their absence made the Prince feel a tad underdressed, but he knew he was in safe hands with the Empress' security detail. Lesser men might fear for their lives without some form of personal guard, but Velzari knew this meeting would not end in an attack on his life; she'd have sent assassins to murder him in his sleep on Nar Shaddaa if she wanted him dead.

No, this was a business meeting. A partnership in the works.

When his eyes laid upon the esteemed Empress, he smiled warmly. Velzari was undoubtedly used to being the one people bowed to, but today, he knew is place and the context of his station. Xazzex Xivar was the Empress of Falleen, not some senator or station marshal. He bowed at the waist upon entering her domain, his head low as he paid his respects.

"Your Excellency," he began with a measured tone, "it is an honor to visit you, and an honor to return home to our beautiful cradle, Falleen."

A few seconds passed, then he stood upright. "I am Prince Velzari Tharn, Underlord of the Black Sun."

Tags: Xazzex Xivar
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[Xazzex Xivar]

Xazzex calmly set her glass aside after the Prince entered the chamber and the doors slid shut silently behind him. "Be Welcome, Prince Velzan Tharn, Underlord of the Black Sun." A hand rose to gesture to one of the seats. "Join me." An invitation rather than a demand; in formal court it was always prudent to let visitors know what they might do without offending their host. There were power plays, but inviting catastrophe served neither side.

"I have heard much of the Black Sun of late. Their influence has been felt and seen far and wide even outside territories not under your firm control." The name of the Black Sun had always been held in reverence for tradition's sake. It had grown and shrunk in influence over decades and centuries. Recent times had its influence growing by leaps and bounds. Good for them, though concerning for rival factions at being so thoroughly displaced. Even her own Leviathan Ring had concerns of their actions in local markets.

"Let me be clear from the onset: for the sake of Falleen I hold many titles. Speaker of the Confederate Parliament and Vice-Head of the Confederacy, and Empress of our manifest destiny. There are things each of these can do for you. Be certain to address me as the one that can do you the most as necessary, my Prince." A shadow of a smile graced her lips. Different roles and governments had different politics. Which Xazzex he addressed at any given time might govern the success of a particular proposal or offer extended toward her. It was a confusing mess, but a necessary one. Galactic politics and Falleen's desire to remain 'neutral' demanded it.

Velzari Tharn​

 

[Velzari Tharn]

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K I N S H I P​

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Velzari eyed the empress with respectful curiosity, sizing her up more carefully now that she'd played her first card. His lips pursed slightly as he considered his options, then he spoke in his usual velvety cadence - not a show, simply a trait of the Falleen.

"Empress Xivar," he began, choosing to address the leader of his people first. "Black Sun's influence grows with each passing cycle, spreading like ink dropped into a reflection pool. We unfurl, moving silently, our presence unnoticed until we are all-encompassing. Thus far, Wild Space has been the primary witness to this expansion. But already, we are making moves in the Mara Corridor. I'm sure you're already... well apprised of the situation," he said with a knowing glint in his eye. Few in the galaxy even knew that the Leviathan Ring existed, and of those individuals, even few knew that the Empress of Falleen herself was the Crown.

But Velzari knew. Yes, it was his business to know such things.

"To the title that stands as the ruler of our beautiful homeworld, I bring an assurance: Black Sun shall not infringe upon the operations of... pre-existing organizations." For now, Velzari chose to dance around the name, hoping Xazzex enjoyed the charade as much as he did. A sly smile spread from ear to ear.

"On the contrary, I believe Black Sun might be a lucrative partner. After all, Falleen finds itself in quite a precarious political dilemma - residing in Republic space, loyal to the Confederacy, embracing Underworld influence... it's the perfect storm, one that Black Sun can provide shelter from."

Tags: Xazzex Xivar
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[Xazzex Xivar]

Xazzex sat perfectly still as the Prince spoke. Unlike so many alien politicians that grinned like idiots or thought to stroke each others' egos, the Falleen woman had no such compunctions. Yet, when the man purposefully paused with his insinuation then a small smile graced her black lips. "Very." Leviathan Ring was a means of making credits, of course, but it was also her personal spy ring. Falleen as a planet had intelligence officers to keep ahead of competition and detractors, but the Empress needed those loyal only to her -- she had enemies even at home, even in government. What sort of lackadaisical layabouts would they be if they didn't think to usurp her authority?

It was pleasing to hear the Prince say the words. One couldn't be certain, of course, they would be adhered to over the long-term, but it began somewhere, and lasted how ever long it lasted. She might think the Black Sun merely avoiding the complexities of dealing with the Republic that sat on Falleen's borders but for their great strides in the Corridor. They were not afraid of the Republic. Xazzex could respect them for that; if they had been skittish then she would have said the words, but held little genuine follow-through.

"It is the perfect storm," she replied calmly. "Unlike my predecessor all those years ago," whom she'd assassinated to claim their position, "Falleen will not be fodder for this Republic to dictate our way of life. Yet, for all our military power and guerilla capabilities," which would mire an invader, squandering their resources, "we would suffer from open warfare just as much as the outsiders." So why wage war when she could ply the factions against one another? The Republic claims to support diplomacy and local identity; the Confederacy claims to uphold independence and economic partners; and the Black Sun (or Underworld) sought to skirt both to extract the riches of the galaxy. They were foils to one another, and while they were distracted Falleen could remain neutral, free to pursue life as it saw fit. As was their birthright.

Xazzex steepled her fingers before another, sharper smile. "Your offer is appreciated, but Falleen does not need a shield from the storm that surrounds us. Yet it can always use partners able to sail turbulent currents."

Obviously, the Black Sun could benefit Falleen, and Xazzex would gladly pursue opportunities. But it was important for her to make it clear they were not in a desperate situation. It might cause someone to mistakenly believe they held an upper hand in negotiations. No matter how well meaning they might be.

"I look forward to hearing the ways we can be of mutual benefit, Prince Tharn."

Velzari Tharn​

 

[Velzari Tharn]

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K I N S H I P​

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"And sail we shall," Velzari said with a small nod. Perhaps not today, but eventually, Falleen would require Black Sun's assistance as more than mere partners. But for now, he would accept this lesser arrangement and use it as a springboard for more complex intertwinement.

"The Mara Corridor is an extremely lucrative region," he went on to say. "Undoubtedly, your cohorts are well aware of its bounty and likely already have operations there as well; I propose we strengthen one another in this regard. To the Speaker of the Confederacy, I would remind that Black Sun's phrik mines on Tatooine directly supply droid production on Geonosis; to the Empress of Falleen, I would remind that black market connections on Monastery enable my organization to liquidate... hot items."

His fingernails, sleek with black polish, tapped rhythmically against the arm of his chair. They moved in perfect sets, rolling from pinky to pointer finger without missing a beat. It was a tic of the Prince's - not a nervous one, but one that showed itself when the man was deep in thought. He was dancing with the Empress, playing her game and making his moves.

"Let us focus on where our currents might converge. Tell me how Black Sun might be of service to Falleen."

Tags: Xazzex Xivar
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[Xazzex Xivar]

Xazzex wasn't against working with the Black Sun. After all, she didn't desire to rule the finest criminal organization. Falleen was all that mattered to her and she would do whatever it took for its people -- and herself. And for that, she would have to redouble her efforts. The Prince's casual acceptance said as much as if he'd screamed in frustration. Surrender wasn't in his nature; he would seek leverage, and Xazzex would need to be ready to maintain her perfect storm of imbalance.

She remain perched upright in her high-back, lacquered wooden chair as Velzari Tharn spoke. The Mara Corridor. An exquisite collection of worlds many sought to claim for their own; and those that could not claim them outright, would harvest their bounty regardless. Rich resources that Falleen or the Confederacy could make use. What an auspicious reminder.

"The Republic will seek to control materials transported to or from Falleen, no matter what agreements we reach." Their borders would grow further still, leaving their home isolated amidst a see of bleeding hearts. 'Customs' would no doubt attempt to waylay ships or the Republic demand tribute for what passes through their space. If that tribute were a bribe to look the other way that would be a simple cost of doing business. Xazzex was concerned it would all be a glorified means of inspecting what they were shipping and confiscating whatever violated their laws. It would be something she would do in this position so why shouldn't she expect it? "The Black Sun, in coordination with homeworld resources, can identify and exploit weaknesses in their system to ensure rare and unique tastes do not go unsatisfied." This way their suppliers and distributors would not go without customer and supplier alike.

"What would the Black Sun find of use toward this end?" Obviously, patriotism aside, they weren't going to do anything for free; hardly a partnership if only one side benefited.

 

[Velzari Tharn]

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The Underlord knew it was far to cliché - and risky - to chalk up Black Sun's payment as a favor to be cashed in later. The Empress was far too cunning to accept such a bargain, and this was a market Velzari was unwilling to let go without a fight. He smiled rather fondly, as if an old memory was playing in his mind. Perhaps it was, for a brief moment; the thought of smuggling Emberlene Reserve through Republic space reminded the crime lord of warm summer evenings here on Falleen, sipping expensive liquors and mingling with his own kin.

"Falleen's astrographical location will soon require our beautiful cradle to be represented in the Royal Assembly. Whether that senator is yourself or another of our cousins matters not - what does matter is that your delegation in the Senate does what is in the best interest of not only Falleen, but her partnership with Black Sun. Your partnership with Black Sun."

It was a simple ask, one without monetary strings. All it required was Falleen's representative to make decisions in the Republic that benefited both parties.

"Black Sun can ensure that Republic trade restrictions and tariffs are little more than paperwork for Falleen, and the Ring," he added, naming them at last. Xazzex might surmise it was a ploy of some kind, but Velzari was willing to take that risk. Black Sun could greatly strengthen many aspects of the Empress' dominion, both on and under the table.

Tags: Xazzex Xivar
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[Xazzex Xivar]

"It is important to have representation in their Senate," Xazzex agreed having been in a similar position before under the Confederacy of Independent Systems. 'Independent' had been a strong word. To most they were not dictatorial, but when you looked at it from the point of view of someone that exploited the system and its weaknesses they'd been an endless disaster. The radical efforts taken to curtail slavery alone had hobbled part of their market. It was unlikely the Republic would be much more permissive. After all, they had been the capital of that Confederacy before its fall; Xazzex strongly suspected their influence lingered in idealism if not policy.

Obviously, she added, "It would be necessary to maintain an open channel of communication between us to ensure our interests are properly represented." It wouldn't be enough for him to simply say 'do what is necessary' for some elusive agenda. Xazzex already planned to do as much anyway, but she could only truly act on what was best for Falleen in isolation; if, however, the Prince kept her apprised of his interests then she could account for those as well.

A small smile graced her dark lips at the Prince's offer. "The Ring. I have heard of them. It should be possible to avoid any unnecessary strife between yourself and them; after all, we're all interested in securing our economic interests despite well-meaning, but foolish efforts by external parties." The servants present could be counted on for their silence, but even so she wouldn't admit anything directly. Despite their best efforts to detect and scramble listening devices you didn't survive in the underworld long being lazy. "Are you current efforts directed toward the Corridor?" And would he require any of the support they were discussing at that very moment?

Velzari Tharn​

 

[Velzari Tharn]

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“Indeed they are,” Velzari confirmed.

“All the usual flavors: spice, guns, rigged fathier races. The Pykes accepted a generous offer on their chop shop outside of Mirogana, which would be an excellent place to process salvage in the Corridor… which I understand is in good supply over Geonosis,” he said slyly.

While it wasn’t a secret that the Geonosians were embroiled in a bitter civil war, it was certainly not common knowledge that the CIS was directly supporting Stalgasin Hive and its newly inducted archduke. When Stalgasin’s dwindling forces were bolstered by legions of Confederate battle droids, the tide was turned in the hive’s favor. What followed was a panicked exodus of rebel Geonosians, fearing CIS forces would indenture them to Stalgasin; what they got instead was a bloodbath in orbit that left colony ships and escorts trashed and derelict.

“The Confederacy is undoubtedly busy on the surface, relieving the Geonosians of their civil war. Stalgasin Hive, even at its strongest, is still technologically incapable of making the most of their enemy’s derelict ships… perhaps Black Sun could take care of the cleanup,” Velzari offered.

“If that pleases you, Speaker.”

Tags: Xazzex Xivar
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[Xazzex Xivar]

Stalgasin. The mirth in the Empress' features cooled subtly to most aliens, but noticeably among Falleen. It was in the eyes. "Yes, the Stalgasin Hive. How unfortunate for them to be beset by rebel forces on their own homeworld. You might almost think they had been prompted by outside forces to undermine the largest Hive's hold on power. Reports have had no indication they've been furnished by such dark forces, however. It all appears quite local by any measure. Such a waste of resources."

Velzari Tharn would have done his research. He would know Xazzex had represented the Confederacy on Geonosis during the first meet with the Archduke of that Hive. No doubt also knew the Archduke went on to favor the Sith elements and arrange a meet with their leader. The Speaker, for her part, accepted the man's decision being the dutiful representative of the Confederacy -- a faction that'd invested quite heavily into Geonosis already by that point and did not wish to see all investment evaporate overnight.

Would he then make the inference between that and those "unfortunate" events she'd just described?

It hadn't been a difficult thing to arrange even using her own resources. Falleen was far from weak, poor, or lacking in influence. Geonosis had already been on the edge. The Archduke had been a fatal mistake in believing her to be one of those Alliance or Jedi simps that would bow and scrape and beg for his favor. The attitude had been on display on Naboo where he'd expected the Royal Republic to do as much. Vemric had been convinced not to economically destroy Geonosis that day, but that had done nothing to forestall his Falleen Vice-Head from taking matters into her own hands.

"It would certainly be a crime if such salvage was left to drift in orbit over the planet. It would pose a navigational hazard, what didn't end up burning in the atmosphere. As good, galactic stewards savy business men like yourself would offer their services in these times." Xazzex paused and a little of her good humor returned. "Your consideration in this matter would please me, Prince Tharn."

 

[Velzari Tharn]

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Velzari’s eyebrows quirked up, only slightly. The empress might not have even seen it, but if her innate Falleen peripheral were as advanced as his own, Velzari knew it’d be wise to come off the information he had.

“I have it on good authority that the rebellion against Stalgasin was locally committed, yes, but in response to… external affairs. The current archduke, the one your Confederacy helped take the mantle? He’s obviously yours. The one prior, however… an agent of the Sith.” It was a common fault of the… bug people, to fuel their self-importance with the sweet nothings of a Sith maestro playing symphonies in the dark vastness of space that lay between Jutrand and Geonosis.

“Naturally, I’m uncertain if the benefactor was a member of Empyrean’s court or a sole agent, but the connection is clear.”

“I presume the former archduke is dead. I’ve not heard anything to suggest he escaped orbit alive. But if my agents behind the Blackwall discover his wings aflutter in Sith space, I assure you,” a pause, “Black Sun will deliver him.”

The Underlord blinked softly as he dipped his head. “Consider that a freebie, Your Highness. A glimpse of the depths of my network. For king and country.”

It was an expensive piece of intelligence to acquire, more so on account of the CIS’ sophisticated surveillance apparatus. Pilfering rudimentary Geonosian channels for incriminating material was child’s play once his slicers bypassed the Confederate security network.

Velzari hoped Xazzex would find his success more impressive than she found the breach troublesome.

Tags: Xazzex Xivar
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[Xazzex Xivar]

Xazzex smiled as the Prince spoke of the Stalgasin, and the Sith-inclined Archduke in particular. "There are consequences to actions, and they do not always arrive when you expect them." The Falleen Empress steepled her fingers together. "Perhaps the current Archduke will be more inclined to listen to their benefactors, and avoid sins of the past." It hardly mattered that the full rebellion hadn't truly gotten underway until more recently. A message had needed to be sent, and it was. Whether they received it was yet to be seen, but considering they did not have the antagonistic relationship with the Confederacy as their predecessor...

"Your consideration in this and the previous matter is most welcome, Prince." Xazzex interlaced her fingers together and lay them down atop her desk. "I hope it extends equally as well for its Queen." Naturally the Prince hadn't intended to imply any sort of threat to her person, or the hope she would be overshadowed by a strong male figure as King or Emperor of Falleen. It was just a saying. A turn of phrase. Just in case, however, Xazzex made a polite, perhaps even 'mirthful' quip in turn. They could both be having a casual conversation. Or they could be saying a great deal more than words alone conveyed.

"In fact, should your agents find anything else of value, Falleen and the Confederacy would both be willing to compensate you for your efforts. Perhaps we could even discuss an on-going exchange for your service." More to the point, the lack therein of divulging secrets best kept silent. There was the cost of hiring, and the cost of peace. There was no need to be excessively frugal dealing with such a capable criminal syndicate... so long as they didn't overextend themselves.

Velzari Tharn​

 

[Velzari Tharn]

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“Falleen needs her Empress, as surely as Black Sun needs her Underlord,” Velzari reassured, having noticed the sentiment. He had no intention of toppling her steeple and usurping her throne. It was perfectly reasonable for her to cover that base, given how… turbulent, the throne of Falleen was. But Velzari had his own throne to watch over, his own envious eyes to swat away when they peered too closely at the seat that would only be theirs in dark dreams or fantasy.

No, it suited Velzari just fine for Falleen to remain separate. Xazzex Xivar was a lauded leader, and the triplicity of her role as planetary leader, Speaker of the Confederacy, and de facto senator in the Republic made her far more valuable where she was than six feet under in the jungle soil below.

Plus, he liked her.

It wasn’t every day that Velzari crossed a wit as sharp as his own. He rather enjoyed their discussion today, the dance they danced.

“An ongoing exchange would be most excellent,” he said with a smile. “Black Sun excels at cleaning up messes, and I understand that the Confederacy has a proclivity for leaving them behind - not a slight, simply an observation. One that folds easily into a business opportunity.”

A pause, then he proceeded.

“We remove unwanted signs of battle, in addition to any ‘reasonably expected’ wreckage. A portion of the salvage is returned to the CIS in the form of usable ingots after processing. A local mining cooperative will handle the books when it comes to tracking shipments, inventory, ‘invoices,’ and so forth. The rest we keep as payment for our services.”

Tags: Xazzex Xivar
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[Xazzex Xivar]

Xazzex was pleased Velzari understood how each of them played their parts well in the galactic opera. Pleasant and intelligent company was far more preferable to having an excuse to execute someone. Despite the Black Sun having its own agenda, they were a like-minded partner; the sort of people that Falleen could work with while keeping the agents of "good" at bay.

The smile grew sharper at the Prince's amusing remarks. She spread her hands out over the top of the desk in silent acceptance; what could the Confederacy do when their enemies needed so thoroughly crushed? "A mutually beneficial arrangement. The locals are sure to appreciate your efforts as well. Those they do not? To the victor go the spoils; they'll capitulate or be silenced." It was an inevitable task that had to be done in the wake of massive fleet battles and invasions. Why not invite someone in that would do this willingly? If the salvage was worth enough to settle their costs all the better.

Slowly, Xazzex pushed back from her desk and rose to her feet. She extended a hand out toward the balcony before Xazzex stepped forth to take the lead. "The Confederacy officially takes a dim view of the salvage of personnel as well. A necessary stance due to the weak constitution of so many other factions in the galaxy. While not afraid to face them on any battlefield, needless goading only saps resources." As she stepped out into the fresh air, the Empress looked over her shoulder at the Prince. "That so, few questions would be ask if you judiciously found opportunities in the wake of such conflict." She knew the Black Sun did not care what people thought of slavery or the black market. Xazzex was pleased to have them be so forthright, in fact. In in turn, "There may, at times, be certain persons we would ask not be taken."

Velzari Tharn​