Star Wars Roleplay: Chaos

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Common Strains (CSA/ME)

[member="Lady Kay"] and the Commenor Systems Alliance were in a form of economic danger which caused Mand’alor the Infernal to Commenor. She heard well the Sith Empire’s sanctions against her beloved Aunt’s alliance, and grit her teeth at the reports of [member="Darth Carnifex"]’s terms.

Yet hearsay was neither effective nor indicative to action. This was one potential hiccup which required personal attention from the Infernal.

The Rekr Fang Fleet, Yasha Mantis’ personal armada appeared out of hyperspace within the Commenori system. Led by the Hell Wolf Star Cruiser, and the Protector, the armada held dozens of ships and enough teeth to destroy an entire planetary system and their stars.

This was not the fleet of a peace-seeking young woman, but the war drums of the Mando’ade. Yasha remained in her wolf’s helm armour as she shuttled down to the Commenor Palace, hailing her Aunt along the way.

Wolf Helm firmly in place, gray armour weave cloak upon her shoulders, Yasha Mantis was a massive sight, eight feet tall in her armour and striding through the Palace to her Aunt. Behind her, Yalilyr and Death Watch guards took stations and places, and two Panathan Ladies walked along, one carrying the infant Adara in her arms.

“Queen Kay, I came as soon as the information reached my borders. Tell me exactly what Emperor Zambrano wants of Commenor, and Mandalore will aide you.” Saluting in an official capacity, Mand’alor the Infernal balled her fist and struck her chest, the wolf standard on her armour nodding its’ mechanical head.

Pleasantries could wait a moment. Once Yasha knew Kay wasn’t in immediate danger, she could let down her guard and introduce Kay to her grandniece.
 

Kay-Larr

Sphaera Tea Company Owner
The message had gotten through that [member="Yasha Mantis"] was coming for a visit. No wait. It was a meeting. Kay was quite certain of what it was about. In fact she was expecting it.

What she didn't expect was the size of her fleet that came along with her. Of course it wasn't by any means brought in an offensive manner. Afterall, the two nations weren't at war with eachother. No, this was purely a defensive measure against outside aggressors.

Kay prepared some tea and had snacks brought in as she was told that Yasha's shuttle had landed. The hustle and bustle of her staff were evident, most especially at the sight of the entourage. They weren't checked by security. There was no need. Everyone knew who they were and clearance was already granted earlier.

She looked over from her side table as Yasha opened her door, turning to face her armoured niece and those that she had brought with her. Including the little baby. Even eith her Force signature shrunken down, she could feel the pull of the Darkside beckoning like the desire to have a forbidden treat.

Her eyes were drawn up to Yasha as she spoke, a bow of her head given in return to the salute. "Thank you for coming.
I was going to reach out to you soon, but there have been many meetings as of late.

The Sith Emperor holo-messaged me, wanting to negotiate a non-aggression pact. His terms though...were not equal. He wants the refugees from Galactic Alliance space that are coming to my borders for sanctuary.
Plus he wants a significant portion of my resources to pay for this pact. I'm not so certain that he'd hold to anything or keep his word. Especially now that he has set up the blockade and is stealing my cargo and passengers while we await our next meeting. He is trying to back me into a corner and make me bend to his will. But I can't do that, even if it means that my people must take up arms if all else fails."
 
Keira hated the Sith. Had for as long as she could remember, even before marrying one of the Zambrano sons. That union had ended for a similar reason fairly quickly, and her hatred of them only grew. Theirs was a kind she hunted for sport, killing those within their ranks no differently than a big game hunter would pursue their own prey. Their lives meant little and less to her, and she regarded them as something less than sentient, beneath even animals. They were deserving of every war that ever tore apart their planets, of every horror they'd ever had to face at the hands of the greater galaxy. She had no qualms in bringing about war if that was what this came to, and she would stand on the front lines herself.

Presently, however, was a time for talk. She was here with Mand'alor and her entourage in order to assess the situation and decide the best course of action, whether that meant further diplomacy or violence of a sort. Like the Sole Ruler she entered the Palace fully armored, though she was more than a head shorter than the wolf-helm, but no less imposing for it. They were subject to no search or seizure of weaponry, something that half-surprised her, though she made no mention. These were urgent times, and she supposed there were more pressing issues at hand. Namely the blockade that surrounded the planet, something she had kept a careful eye on until they were out of sight.

She mirrored the salute, non-traditional in comparison to those she'd given in the past. As the two made introductions and the situation was explained she remained silent, the three-hundred-sixty-degree vision her helmet granted her scanning their surroundings as the gravity of what was transpiring set in. This was no small matter, and while she understood the preference was likely to handle things with as little destruction as possible, she was also well aware that oftentimes the only language this particular aggressor understood was war. It was something she would gladly bring to their doorstep, but not without some sort of go-ahead.

Her opinion on these matters would only be offered if it was requested, else she would remain as a quiet observer.

[member="Lady Kay"] | [member="Yasha Mantis"]
 
The Death Watch warriors who flanked the Infernal fanned out throughout the Palace, taking positions wordlessly beside Commenor Security Forces.

“No need, the moment I heard, I came. We will not leave you fallow, [member="Lady Kay"]. I forbid it.” Yasha’s voice was stern, echoing out through the audio processors in her buy’ce. Her helm.

Standing in the middle of the room, Yasha listened silently to Kay’s announcement of the situation, troubled by [member="Darth Carnifex"]’s course of action. He, of course, worked to bring more plenty to the Sith Empire, yet at the cost of Commenor? The Mandalorian Empire’s strongest and dearest allies?

Yasha’s own family?

The baffles on either side of her helm rocked. No, there must be something which could be done. Little [member="Adara Raxis"] stretched in her nanny Tamar’s arms, the infant incapable of hiding her darker inclinations from the nature of her resurrection.

“The Carnifex I know is above all, diligent in honouring his word and fair in appropriate negotiations. What would he want of refugees? Are these the same folk, who have been committing acts of terrorism within his Empire, or are they free and innocent citizens, coming to Commenor for a new life? He, although perilous and unparalleled in naval might, is mutable. We can negotiate. I am prepared to mediate on your behalf.” Yasha’s gauntleted hand reached for her Aunt’s shoulder, thumb rubbing on Kay’s dress in a moment of comfort. This must be hard on Kay, who felt so keenly the plight of her people, and all peoples who suffered under a boot. The Sith were, by and large, a scourge on many, yet their ruler was perilous for another reason.

He kept his deals. Yasha looked to [member="Keira Verd"] and already knew the woman she considered a friend would call for immediate and vicious action. Could there be negotiation to solve this situation before it turned into a downright war? The threat of conflict loomed upon Yasha's conscious mind. If this was not handled quickly, the blockade would turn into a bloodbath.

“He and I are in need of negotiating a new treaty. You are my vode. My Aliit. I cannot profit from my Empire’s proximity and plenty while you and yours suffer. A slight against you is a slight against me, and I will not stand for it. We can continue this negotiation and I assure you, Emperor Zambrano honours his bonds and his deals. He is an aberration amongst the Sith for that exact reason. As strange as it may sound to many, he is the most honourable ruler of whom I have associated. He has proven this at dire harm to himself. Once a deal is struck, he holds to it. The Sith Empire has been suffering from rebellions for months. Some of those who are fighting and killing his people are hiding in these central lands. That must be part of it. It must. You have my aid. I will not abandon you... to whatever end.”
 
Jaster walked into the room behind the Death Watch and Mandalorain Escorts. He was not part of either party when he walked in, but seemed like it was a good time to enter then any other time.

Walking into the room, he wore his UTC Uniform. Torn and Tattered in placed he had just gotten out of a tough battle, bandaged were on his left forearm and over his forehead covering part of his left eye. A Bacta bandage was easy to see on his neck and blood was very visible as it bleed through the a bandage and the Uniform around his left side under his rib cage. Walking in, he stood tall and looked at the two parties that were now speaking. Without saying a word to Mand'alor the Infernal, [member="Yasha Mantis"], Jaster looked directly to the Queen, [member="Lady Kay"]. "Kay, I have brought in Essiosan Refugees seeking asylum from the Sith Empire, total count is 5,000 civilian, we were stopped at the border by Blockaders, but my fleet held them off long enough for the refugees to escape, shall I put them up in the usual Planetary Centers?"

He could only wince at the word Blockaders, everyone knew they were Sith Battle Groups who sole purpose was to squeeze life out of the rest of the galaxy. He did not harbor hate for them, what they did with their personal nation and citizens were their right as a government supported by its people. When attacking another nation, fight with honor in victory and humility in defeat. This blockade was a crime of its own and was violating another sovereignty. To see the Mand'alor defend a man who fought without that simplistic moral concept of honor, it was demoralizing. He only had one more thing to report. "The refugees were interviewed and we were able to put together a report for their Asylum Approval." Jaster was not able to look Kay in the eyes as he handed her the Data-Tablet with the Report on it. It was not something he could stomach reading again.

[member="Keira Verd"]
 
[member="Lady Kay"] | [member="Yasha Mantis"] | [member="Jaster of Clan Awaud"] | [member="Keira Verd"]


Discussions were suddenly being had over the incident with the Sith and their Emperor. Bermann was made aware of the Mand'alores arrival since he was nearby in the palace. The Admiral, preparing a fleet to protect his Queen and the Commenor people, was unfortunately late. The word came to him only as the Mand'alore was already landing. He spoke to the secretary outside of Kay's office and they nodded to each other as he quickly, and calmly entered the room. The Mand'alore Yasha Mantis was already in deep conversation with the Queen, as he slowly shut the door behind him. He did it quiet enough so that he did not disturb the conversation, yet obvious enough for everyone to know his entrance so it was known he wasn't trying to sneak in. He wore the CSA's Admiral Uniform, although he wasn't yet accustomed to it. His cybernetic arm and leg still in view, and he was walking with a cane. He still hadn't gotten used to his cybernetics, hoping he would before the war started.

"It is not my place to speak, but I have to be honest. The Sith Empire wants the Galaxy. The Galactic Empire has been absorbed. The Emperor is making aggressive acts at the edge of CSA space and we think he's going to keep his word when he obviously wants Commenors resources. He's not looking for friendship, he's looking for control. And to take what he wants, he needs resources to fuel his own version of a Galactic Society that forces you to listen and fall in line. No one would do that, unless they had weapons pointed at their head or a Slave Collar on." He took a couple steps forward to be behind Lady Kay as his position should be, under her command, limping the way with his cane. "Forgive me, I am Admiral Bermann, you can see me as the figure head for the CSA's Navy until our esteemed Queen finds another above me. But still, the Emperor says he won't hurt us, but then he causes such aggressions at the edge of our space, proving he wants what we have. Innocents or terrorists, if they were in the Galactic Alliance, he wants them. And I have to say no to that. But it is Queen Kays choice."
 
Aedan Miles was late.... again this always happened. Sighing as he strode swiftly down the corridor towards the meeting room entering just as man wait Admiral started to speak listening politely as he spoke Aedan leaned against the door jam calmly his violet eyes gleaming lightly as he observed those present. He knew who else was aligned with the CSA and who would likely be pushing them to prepare for war with the Sith Empire. Personally Aedan would prefer to avoid that finally he strode forward speaking as he gestured around once. "Forgive me for butting in so rudely but why don't you simply send someone to speak with Zambrano. Someone who he may listen to and who may stand a chance at convincing him against striking against the CSA." Aedan shrugged as he walked stopping behind a free chair and spinning it lightly so he could sit in it kicking one leg up over the opposite arm as he leaned back resting his body against the back and arm his eyes trained at those sitting around the table. He grinned and waited for the yelling to start after all it wasn't a normal person who suggested sending an envoy to the Emperor of the Sith.

[member="Anweald Bermann"] [member="Jaster of Clan Awaud"] [member="Yasha Mantis"] [member="Keira Verd"] [member="Lady Kay"]
 
Beth neither hated or liked the Sith. In truth, she never really had any encounters with them. She knew both sides of the story - or at least, both sides she thought she knew. Carnifex was honorable. But they also weren't the nicest people in the galaxy. In either case, she received a communication from her [member="Yasha Mantis"] that she and Adara would be visiting the Commenor Systems Alliance to visit [member="Lady Kay"]. It apparently had something to do with the Sith blockade, which made sense. The Commenori were tight allies to the Mandalorian Empire.

Beth had been test driving her new ship, the Vigilant Envoy. And by test driving, that meant flying it around Mandalorian Space but also decorating a small room she had for herself on the ship. She nestled photographs of Adara, Reyn, Yasha, Kaine, Baiko & Gray... Basically, everyone in her life. She had to make it like home, after all! There had to be a room for the captain (okay, maybe she wasn't a captain but that still didn't stop her from imagining!)

In either case, it wasn't too long before her ship landed in Commenori space, nearby her mother's ship. She wore her armor and had her blaster on her side - a fairly rare sight, in truth. Beth ran from her ship, knowing she was tremendously late to the meeting. She wanted to help her Commenori allies in any possible way she could! They didn't deserve some type of blockade or what have you. On the plus side, it seemed that the guards - both Death Watch and Commenori - knew of her as she sprinted along towards the meeting room, guards and servants alike pointing her in the direction she needed to be.

At the entrance, Beth took a moment to stop and breath. She took her helmet off and locked it onto her side as she tried to fix her messy hair from the helmet, her long ears fully pointed upwards. With that, she slinked into the room where she heard the closing remarks of [member="Anweald Bermann"] and [member="Aedan Miles"]. She gave a small wave to the others in the room, including Keira & Yasha. "Sorry, I'm late," she whispered as she went to stand beside her mom. She had to resist telling Yasha her decoration in the little room on her ship. Another time, there were many serious matters to discuss!

... Crap, what was the proper etiquette in front of a queen? She did a small curtsy to the High Queen of Commenori before she perking a brow at poor Jaster's condition. She hoped he was okay.

[member="Aedan Miles"] | [member="Jaster of Clan Awaud"] | [member="Keira Verd"]
 

Kay-Larr

Sphaera Tea Company Owner
"He was hardly fair in these negotiations, Yasha. And he believes that there are no innocent refugees from the Core. Not even the children. He wants them all and claimed that they'd only be a burden, that they were just a resource to be used to fuel his Empire." Little did she know that [member="Darth Carnifex"] planned on killing them all.

She placed her hand on top of Yasha's, listening as she expressed her thoughts on the Sith Emperor and her promise to back the CSA should they need it. "If he's so honourable...why is he ordering acts of piracy while our negotiations are on hold? He is stealing from me and from my people, and for what? To teach me a lesson? To threaten me with a small taste of what he would do to us if I don't give him what he wants?"

There were ways around the blockade thankfully. But for how long?

"Yasha, you are my family and I wouldn't deny you or your aid, but wouldn't it be a sign of weakness and poor leadership if I wasn't there at the negotiations?" Not that Carnifex was there in person either. He was just in a holo that overlapped a droid. For some reason he didn't venture into her space at all.

Kay looked over to [member="Jaster of Clan Awaud"] as he walked in. She slid her hand off of Yasha's and then turned her attention to him. He had often brought her refugees from war torn planets and there were many centers set up to house them and help them to start a new life. She took the datapad in hand, obviously frowning as she read the report. "They destroyed everyone's homes? Leaving only military installations? And they wonder why they run out of resources..." Her brows furrowed as she handed the datapad back to him. "Their asylum is approved. As are any trying to reach our sanctuary.
There are other routes around the blockade that can be taken. For now..."


Her attention was turned to [member="Anweald Bermann"] as he walked in, the newly appointed Admiral being no stranger to her. But he was a stranger to everyone else in his current appearance. Kay nodded her head to him. "We'll put a stop to this, Bermann. Don't worry."

Boy the scent of conflict sure brings people out of the woodwork. [member="Aedan Miles"] now appeared. His was a face that she hadn't seen in quite a long time. "Aedan...That is currently being discussed. I am not about to jump into war when there are other options on the table. War is a last resort for me. Not the first.
I will still continue to negotiate, but the Sith Emperor's actions must cease immediately."


All of this made her wonder what her estranged husband's thoughts would be. [member="Veiere Arenais"] should be here, yet to the public, he was in Exile. And unfortunately that made it not his place to be at her side, no matter how much she wanted him to be.

[member="Beth Australis-Mantis"] was the next to walk in. Kay bowed her head to the young girl. Was [member="Caedyn Arenais"] going to be fast on her heels? Rumours were spreading about those two since the war games. It was something that she had yet to witness with her own eyes.

[member="Keira Verd"]
 
“Sith Citizens… the refugees he’s wanting are Sith citizens, or… spoils of war… Ession… Ession was a bloodbath. Carnifex showed me the dead. He said the renegades committed the genocide. They had to wipe the planet clean.” Mand’alor the Infernal stumbled back a step at seeing [member="Jaster of Clan Awaud"] walk in bloodied and torn from his latest engagement. Beneath her helm, Yasha’s face was stricken with the sight of her friend, confidante and doctor in such a state.

The report given her from [member="Darth Carnifex"] was right.

Jaster was behind the rebellions and Sith killings. All that kept Yasha on her feet were the years of surprise events, which she was trained to weather. Silent. Still. Let the surprise pass. The whispers sent her from Carnifex’s table spoke of dire need, of unfortunate turns, which caused the deaths of entire planetary populations.

Punishments and necessities to ‘keep the peace and fuel of his Empire’. Seeing it in the flesh, Yasha was stricken indeed. Kaine Zambrano had ever been her acquaintance and dare she say, the first person who believed she was capable of ruling the Mando’ade. He gave at cost to himself. He gave without ceasing and withheld wrath, where wrath was due.

“Kaine doesn’t need Commenor’s resources!” Yasha barked, stopping herself momentarily from the use of Darth Carnifex’s personal name. She settled her shoulders, wolf-helm looking about the room. “Emperor Zambrano needs nothing from Commenor. To me, from a place of tactical and diplomatic knowledge, his blockade against the Commenor Systems Alliance is not one of goods but of people. He is attempting to root out the dissension hitting his Empire. It is the people, not the finances. The finances, the credits, it’s all a bonus. It’s the people… Manda, it’s the people.”

[member="Anweald Bermann"] spoke, speaking with the pragmatism she expected from an Admiral who had seen much of war.

“He keeps his word. When Mand’alor the Undying went missing and the Cuir Rekr, of which I was a member took the rule of Mandalore, he worked with me. When I returned from Dathomir aged from the child he knew, he worked with me. When we fought the Outer Rim Coalition at Utapau, he bled beside me.

When a member of the Cuir Rekr was murdered, I sat upon Death Watch’s throne and he and his son Ancius knelt at my feet. Proclaimed the truth, bearing undeniable evidence of his own Apprentice’s duplicitousness. He humbled himself to maintain a peaceful presence between our peoples.

When the battle of the Red Coronation rose to a vicious height and Vilaz Munin slaughtered my own People, when a former Sith soldier fired at Carnifex in my throne room, and his son Ancius, devoid of his powers in the Force leapt in the way, dying in his father’s arms, he sat upon the Throne of Bastion, looked down at my face, and forgave us. He had every right then and there to end all our lives, but he didn’t. His wrath was staid for the deal he made. For the pact of non-aggression he signed.

I cannot accept the killing of innocents as moral or righteous. I cannot accept the evils which his Empire has committed, and nor shall I…

… but Kaine Zambrano can be greatest enemy and dependable friend. I trust Darth Carnifex to be the epitome of the Emperor of the Sith Empire, he is true to his every decreed word, where alliances and pacts are concerned… otherwise Mandalore would be a wasteland of soot and bone. Otherwise my own body would be decomposing in a ditch for the dishonour of his son’s death.

He wants no war with the Mando’ade. On the contrary, Darth Carnifex is pushing to restrengthen the alliance which once existed between Mandalore and Bastion… Aunt Kay. This gives leverage. Give me the opportunity to solve this conundrum without throwing Commenor into a violent war. As much as he worships conflict, it is my people who he would have to cross before reaching you. We both know the meat grinder which would be created between a Mandalorian and Sith conflict.” Words ringing in her own ears, the Hell Wolf paced the room, fists clenching and unclenching at her sides.

“Beth, for Manda’s sake, heal Jaster.” She ordered her daughter to intervene, knowing full well the talents of [member="Beth Australis-Mantis"].

“How is it the Sole Ruler of the Mando’ade is the one speaking of the potential for peace? Has there been a war all this time and I was too insulated to Mandalore’s rebuilding to notice? Give me the opportunity to speak with Kaine Zambrano myself. I meant what I said. You are my family, Kay. House Arenais is to me as close as Clan Raxis. Clan Mantis…

… If words cannot get the task completed favourably… I will stand as the bulwark before you. I will protect you, Kay… for all that entails.”

Was Commenor worth putting the Mandalorian Empire through another war? Yasha knew if she asked her Mando’ade to take up arms against the Sith Empire, many of their names would be added day upon day to the litany of prayers she spoke each morning. Armour and faces would forever be gone from the Mandalorian Peoples, as a conflict which could raise the Galactic delight of war would spill over to an utter and uncontainable grief.

Graveyards created from Empires. Carcasses from Fleets. Shells of dust and soot and ash from planets.

Many called for Mandalore to be a true Empire of Neutrality for such a purpose. The Mandalorians were a vicious and uncontainable force of nature against any and all opponents. Rebuilt and strong again, they fought best for the protection of their culture and their people, but put against a marauding force?

Placed in the war path? Yasha looked to [member="Keira Verd"], she knew how sporting Keira found the hunt and killing of Sithlings. Yasha remembered taking the Sith Lord down on Khorm, the exhilaration of it.

“Give me this one chance to prevent further bloodshed. [member="Aedan Miles"] is right. We can convince him, yet. And then you can concentrate on the welfare of the refugees who need your help. Join me, come with me, then, and we can speak with the Dark Lord together… Beth, please darling, heal Jaster.”
 
[member="Lady Kay"] | [member="Yasha Mantis"] | [member="Jaster of Clan Awaud"] | [member="Keira Verd"] | [member="Aedan Miles"]


Bermann decided to interject before anyone else spoke. Once he said his mind, he would leave, if the Queen demanded it, or stand in the corner should his privilege to speak was taken.

"The Emperor already opened negotiations. He went to Lady Kay first, and said these are the terms you must agree to, if you don't want us attacking you. He made a tactical move when he didn't get what he wanted. He said 'let us pause,' and while she was unprepared he struck gold when he had the opportunity. Go and talk to him? He came here. He doesn't want what we have? He's raiding our cargo. He's killing entire planet populations and that is outrageous. Mand'alor, as much as I respect your title and your honors, this is a disgrace. You stand there, stammering, defending a man you claim can turn your bones to dust. You're afraid, you're intimidated. When you stand in the face of evil that you know is evil and wrong that you admit to the face of Queen Kay and just... Say let's keep cool, let's back off, give him what he wants, let him walk free."

He approached Lady Kay and whispered, " I understand your admiration for the Mand'alore, but she does not seek to stop the Emperor even if he dared to stomp through her home. I apologize for my interruption, it is not my place my Queen, but you can clearly see she is afraid." Bermann knelt beside his Queen, hoping she would forgive him.
 
"Mand'alor, while I respect your experience and title as Sole Ruler, I'm going to have to respectfully disagree." Her voice was firm, yet barely calm, its levelness balancing on a knife's edge. "If Kaine Zambrano was as honorable as you say, he wouldn't be staging this blockade in the first place in order to force Commenor into a non-aggression pact. What honorable man restricts a nation's resources for the sake of his own gain? Would we stand for it if a Mandalorian was doing this, would we call them honorable? For the sake of our people's future, I hope not." Keira held [member="Yasha Mantis"]' gaze as she first spoke, but soon looked around to the others in the room, namely the Queen of Commenor herself.

"I used to fight for the Sith. It's not something I'm proud of, but it's a part of my past. I was there on Wayland when our people were slaughtered, and so was the supposedly honorable Emperor of the Sith. That single battle was held against me for years whenever I spoke of being Mandalorian, and I don't expect him to be forgiven any easier." When she had first joined the Clans that had been the only thing consistently brought against her, and she tired of hearing about it. "His kin was present during the genocide of Mirial. He killed civilians on Deneba." These were all battles she had been present for, and each was burned into her memory. "If that isn't enough, he continues to work with the Graug, a species that has slaughtered and enslaved millions.

"If that is what we're calling honor, then I'm going to have to second-guess my place among the people. He's nothing short of a monster, and he deserves no fair treatment. If it were up to me, this would mean war. But if you still want to talk, then so be it. I'll accompany you.

"But if he tries anything, I'll be the one putting a round in his head, no questions asked."

Her head inclined just slightly, and she looked directly to the man that had spoken out against her people's capabilities and their Sole Ruler, "I would recommend you hold your tongue when it comes to matters you don't understand. I can assure you that if he brings further harm you will have at the very least my clan to back you. And if you call myself and my people cowards again, you will learn why even the Sith don't want war with us."

[member="Lady Kay"] | [member="Beth Australis-Mantis"] | [member="Aedan Miles"] | [member="Anweald Bermann"] | [member="Jaster of Clan Awaud"]
 
Beth knew the talks about the Sith Empire's blockade was going to be intense, but she didn't realize how intense it was. Whatever was on that datapad, it even set [member="Yasha Mantis"] back. That... Was not a good sign, especially for the talks going on with Sith currently. Beth blew some strands of hair out of her face and pulled them behind her long ear before giving a smile to [member="Lady Kay"] in return for her nod. Beth, however, didn't realize how close to war it was becoming. Had the Commenori ever been in a war, to be honest? She wasn't aware as they seemed to pride themselves on a peaceful resolution. Granted, she didn't know much about the politics of the galaxy.

Beth perked a brow as Yasha barked and began what turned into a speech. Beth couldn't help but frown. The people? What were the Sith doing with the people from the Alliance? She listened carefully as Yasha spoke. It was clearly a confusing situation, considering all things. Or not necessarily confusing, but there was a diplomatic angle that clearly was not well protected. Could Yasha, Lady Kay, and Carnifex come to a mutual agreement that didn't involve a war that would trample through all their nations? Beth, however, did catch the comment about healing Jaster. She nodded and began to move over but got distracted by the next bit of Yasha's word.

[member="Keira Verd"] made her opinion known and wasn't something that was really not expected.

She smiled. They would stand with the Commenori, no matter what. Beth felt confident that would always be the case. They would stand with their allies. Beth, however, gave a slightly mean looking face towards [member="Anweald Bermann"]. Afraid? If anyone could take on the Sith Empire, it was the Mandalorian Empire. No other nation could face against them and have a chance of survival - certainly not Commenori by herself. "With all due respect, Admiral, do you truly believe that the Commenori could take on the Sith Empire, the strongest nation in our galaxy, even with the Rebel Alliance nibbling on their heels with barely any effect, and your nation live to tell the tale? Fear may do you well, too."

"It will definitely not do you well to alienate those who wish to protect you. Especially an ally that would most definitely take the brunt damage, in terms of life and property, of any Sith offensive." Commenori would die, sure, but many more Mandalorians would perish. Beth was in no way arguing whether or not the Sith were evil monsters. She knew they did atrocious things to people. It was a truth that the Empire wished to assist the Commenori but also would prefer not to have the Empire washed in blood with millions of innocents dying, either.

Beth knew that wasn't her place to say and as such, she suddenly got quiet, looking sheepishly between the adults in the room. Eep! The admiral called her mother a coward - something that she never was or would be. There was a big difference between being pragmatic and being afraid.

But, again, she was told to heal Jaster. And maybe that was better. "Oh, yes, yes, I'm going!" She quickly skittered over to [member="Jaster of Clan Awaud"]. "Sorry," she mumbled mostly about her little outburst for some reason to him. With that in mind, she examined Jaster's many wounds. She particularly looked at his neck, where blood was visibly coming out. She took a deep breath as she began to focus, concentrate. She felt her connection to the Force grow as she moved her hand above his neck and slowly began to visualize the healing. She'd start there and work her way through his other many injuries. Poor guy.
 
Aedan's eyebrow rose as he saw the man lean down focusing his attention their he heightened his senses via the force listening before he started to laugh his eyes gleaming as crimson started to mix and swirl with the violet that was normally there. "You sir are either a fool or very brave I am leaning towards the fool. Did you know who you are sitting in the presence of did you not think that your actions would draw attention. I will have you know I have stolen the ships of men for far less than that. So tell me what is to stop the Pirate Emperor from seeking payment for your slight." Aedan leaned forward a savage grin crossing his lips as the force started to leak from him creating an aura that was almost as black as that of a Sith but at its core their was light and protection for those who he cared about and called family. His clan and his people were his family as his ruler and boss Yasha Mantis was afforded the same protection her dealings with him were fair and she had let him keep his fleets. Anyone who dared to insult her would find themselves living to regret such a decision.

He turned his attention away from the man deeming him unworthy of farther attention the warning was there let him take it if he would but if he didn't Aedan would soon have work for his Wild Dog. Turning to Yasha he grinned hearing she was going to speak to Zambrano and lifted an eyebrow curiously. "Do you think I could join you? It has been quite some time sense I have seen Zambrano in person. I hear he has a pest that needs to be squashed I may offer my services in this for a charge of course."

[member="Beth Australis-Mantis"] [member="Keira Verd"] [member="Anweald Bermann"] [member="Yasha Mantis"] [member="Lady Kay"] [member="Jaster of Clan Awaud"]
 

Raiz

Self-Imposed Exiled
A sudden outburst of laughter seems to echo the place, a laughter that many of those within the area have not heard for months, and it's source came from a Mandalorian clad in his Beskar'gam with the colours of Clan Australis. Raiz Australis was striding towards his Mand'alor, Yasha Mantis, and stopped beside her- Such an action showed that, whilst she was the woman that he would happily die for, that they also saw one another as equals, such would also be seen as he did not for a second even consider kneeling towards the Queen, nor the self-proclaimed Admiral. Raising his hands, the man removes his helmet and attatches it to his hip to hang by his side, the Mandalorian's facial features were somewhat light and very much like the man he once was. "You, an old man, speak of our Mand'alor in such a disrespectful way- You of such a aged despiction, here stands Yasha of clan Mantis, by the age she could walk, she was much more fearless than you have ever been. By the time you've been soiling your pants due to old age, our Mand'alor had the Emperor on his knees. Do not dare speak of fear or intimidation, when every darkness around the corner makes you flinch, you katwu'ure osi'kyr." at that Raiz spat down on the ground before looking up at the man with clear defiance behind his eyes, the pent up anger of the man seems to be venting towards the slight made upon the one he has sworn everything to.

-
[member="Yasha Mantis"] [member="Lady Kay"] [member="Jaster of Clan Awaud"] [member="Anweald Bermann"] [member="Aedan Miles"] [member="Beth Australis-Mantis"] [member="Keira Verd"]​
 
Jaster only continued to stand at attention before the Queen, his long time friend and possibly the first person to ever get that title. He knew that she would always find a way to continue her way no matter the cost. She was not just a pacifist, but a very capable person who inspired the deepest levels of loyalty. If she ever decided to go to war, then all other nations would not have a chance. The wave of unified loyalty she was able to call upon was something on a whole new level. To think the the Emperor of the Sith Empire thought themselves stronger then her might was funny to say the lease.

Bowing before [member="Lady Kay"], "They will receive work through the UTC as always, your generosity will shine within their hearts for all of time your majesty." He smiled as he recovered from his bow, teasing Kay was like all her allies, a way they showed affection.

He heard the words from Mand'alor, [member="Yasha Mantis"], and held his hand up when [member="Beth Australis-Mantis"] attempted to approach, "No need, just some injuries from our dependable friend, Emperor Zambrano, I have never meet the man, only his guns and the civilizations he left in ashes," He creacked another smile as he thought of [member="Darth Carnifex"] in comparison to [member="The Mephirium"] or Reverance, "The emperor is not a truly evil Dark Lord, this is true, but the level of distruction he leaves behind surpasses his ability to stand on par with the Mandalorains or Commenoran Nations."

He clinched his hand and stood out of the way of their conversations now, "As for the other rooting out rebellious intent, when you listen to those refugees stories about being on a space station, Asteroid Colony, or a transport that was lucky enough to be off the planet, and they sat helplessly as their planet was turned to ash, their loved ones were wiped from existence, and their homes exterminated from reality, all because they were loyal to a man who inspired hope... yes, they truly would have been a rival to even the Mandalorain Empire as the Sith Armada sustained little casualties."

The man was unable to really face the Mand'alor at that moment, she truly believed that the Emperor was someone who could pull in the Chaos that was spreading across the galaxy. In truth, it was his nations that was spreading it to all corner of the galaxy. "Once you leave the boarders of your nation into the Void with only a escort fleet protecting you, that is when you will hear the true voice of the galaxy."

Looking to Kay again he bowed, "The other trade lanes have been overrun as well, only the trade lane between Commenor and the Mandalorian Empire, along with the one connecting Commenor to the Republic are less congested," He paused, "Denon, Alderaan, and Kuat have been locked down to the point that my Corporate Fleet can only make small gaps in their lines, allowing some to escape, the void is vast though."

He recovered from his bow, he saw the young [member="Raiz Australis"] enter. "Seems this place it getting crowded, and a place for Politicians, not a mere Merchant as my self, by the grace of your majesty I will be on my way."

He took a step back and started to walk out of the room. The more he spoke here, the longer his people were fighting the Sith in Open Space without their Viceroy. The Rebel Alliance would most likely send him another group of planets that needed to be evacuated and lead them through the chaos to whatever nation could hold them.

[member="Keira Verd"] [member="Anweald Bermann"] [member="Aedan Miles"]
 
Bermann tilted his head up slightly, speaking to no one in particular as he whispered in a respectful tone, "it is because of blind ignorance, that ones judge only of what they see. I kneel to my Queen only because I choose to. If you wish to challenge for my loyalty, you only need to tell me to stand." Bermann didn't want to damage the talks, he knew he was wrong to speak out, but if these people can only see the surface of anything they judge, whether it be the preparation of what the Emperor plans, or show them he is not just a weak old man, he would be honored to show them what lurks underneath. He made no further actions, as he waited his Queens forgiveness, or any shame brought unto him.
 
From his position somewhere between Mand'alor and his sister, Alkor snorted. The sound did not come through his vocabulator, but he shifted his weight from right to left and drew his blade slowly, in a manner that was not threatening.

"Te Dar'jetii dinui jate'shya waadas," Alkor drawled off to [member="Keira Verd"], T-visor level on the Commenori representatives. Then, he directed his words to Yasha. "Ib'adate takisi gar vaal copaani gaa'tayli. Ni midi mhi ba'slana kaysh at ash'amur.

"The Sith pay better," "These people insult you while seeking help. I say we leave them to die."

He turned his beskad absently over in hand, eyes moving over the blade appraisingly. They were friendly with these people, but the most prominent fact remained. Not all of them were Mandalorian, or related to anyone who was. The only thing that brought Mand'alor and her ilk to this table was her relationship with their Queen, and [member="Yasha Mantis"] knew better than anyone that such was hardly enough cause to rally the People to war.

In fact, there were many compelling reasons to say no outright. Risking Mandalorians in someone else's conflict? That was historically up to the Vod, and the answer was always "not unless they're paying."

He spun the weapon in his hand, testing the weight, then caught it and looked evenly at the foreign consuls. It slid smoothly back into its sheath and he folded his arms.

"We have peace between us," he spoke in basic, "and trade, and a good many other benefits that both of our peoples benefit from. But a war with the Sith? We profit little from that, and indeed, risk the burgeoning good health of Manda'yaim from such a pursuit." These words were for the people of Commenor, in a language they could all understand.

"I have no love for the Sith," he continued, "but I have no interest in a conflict with them, either. We just finished rebuilding our Home, and many of our people who left have returned. I would not ask them to go right back into a war, after the bitter taste that the last left them with."

He glanced to Yasha. "But that choice is for Mand'alor alone to make."
 

Ravenfire

King of Pumpkins
Moderator
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Tom quietly slipped out of yasha's transport. He had been hiding in one of the ducts. It didn''t take him long to slip past the guards of the palace and into their ducts as well. He made his way to where he could hear all the voices and looked down he saw a number of people and so he slowly lowered himself out of the air duct. He also used his cloaking ability while doing it so no one would notice him drop into the room. He then very quietly almost soundlessly walked up next to [member="Beth Australis-Mantis"]. He had missed most of the meeting but he would learn quickly what was going on.

He would quietly whisper to her. "Sorry I am late beth'ika looks like it is a good thing I have shown up." He listened to all of them speaking about the sith and what to do. There was much bickering and people calling each other things. When [member="Jaster of Clan Awaud"] left Tom decided enough was enough. He quietly stepped forwards looking at [member="Lady Kay"] "My lady" He would say smiling and bowing slightly then he would turn to [member="Yasha Mantis"] "Mand'alor" He would repeat the process.

"I would like to voice my opinion. On the whole from what I have seen of the Sith, I would have to agree with [member="Keira Verd"]. The sith deal in back handed deals. The only real reason we have a fair deal is because kaine is fearful of us. He requested our help against the The rebel alliance. The only real reason most of our people went was for a chance at cedric grayson. However Beth'ika is right, the sith are not something to be taken lightly. They are very dangerous people." He would say grimly.

"I should know, I lost my father to their ways. I just pray he doesn't cause to much trouble before I can stop him." A pained look crossed Tom's face. He said addressing kay "From what I have seen of our military and force order within the CSA, we could use the extra help. The best idea would be to work with the ME on this one." He would say simply.

He would look at [member="Raiz Australis"] "Alor enough, it was bad enough Kaine was in prison, I shall not allow you to join him. Yes [member="Anweald Bermann"] is calling mand'alor cowardly however he forgets Lady Kay herself wants a peaceful solution, one that yasha is attempting to help with, so steal your tongue back into your mouth. We have no need to fight each other, let the lady deal with her people as she will. You are a guest here." His eyes would have narrowed during it clearly displeased with his alor's outburst.

"Perhaps Jaster is right, but even the politicians need to be reigned in every once in a while. We don't need bickering, what we need is to voice our opinions and leave personal attacks out of it." He would say his face calming once more before stepping towards lady kay's side. He needed to be in view now, plus Lady Kay needed to feel she could do as she would. This was her home after all.

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Kay-Larr

Sphaera Tea Company Owner
Going to respond to each in turn. So if it seems a little funny, that's why. I have a lot to react to in my little office...lol

Kay slowly shook her head as [member="Yasha Mantis"] mentioned only of Ession. "That could be partly true for Ession, but the refugees being kidnapped on their way here come from Galactic Alliance worlds near here like Coruscant. Little children are hardly genocidal terrorists. They are not soldiers fighting in the war. They are juat innocent people being victimized and killed for trying to escape the carnage." Her brows furrowed as Yasha made her outburst about Carnifex not needing Commenor's resources, and that everything else was a bonus. "If the Sith Emperor doesn't need a percentage of my resources, why then is he demanding it? Why would he not let that part drop in the negotiations? And why now is he making his people steal my cargo?
Those are my ships and my cargo. He doesn't have the right..."
The whole situation made her sad more than angry. Moreso because her beloved neice had only seen one part of the bigger picture.

She listened as Yasha continued on, trying to convince Kay of Carnifex's character and the strength of his word. Yet she couldn't help but wonder if it was all a part of some strategy in a long running game that the Sith Emperor was playing. "My dear Yasha, I don't want a war either. I have kept my people out of war for so long.
It is a last resort for us. And with your help we can continue to avoid it even further. So I would be very honoured and grateful if we went together, arm in arm, as a sign of the commited strength behind our two peoples."


As [member="Anweald Bermann"] stepped into the conversation, Kay let him speak. Opinions, even those that differed from her own views needed to be heard. Sometimes there was wisdom to be gleaned from them. Sometimes. But at this moment, Bermann was not being very wise. "Admiral Bermann...you are WAY out of line. The Mand'alor is anything but a coward. We do not insult our family and guests here, unless in jest and this is surely not what you were implying. Understand?" She clenched her jaw as she needed to put her foot down. Her other guests were getting riled up over Bremann's words and she did not need the potential for a peaceful outcome to be thrown away. "Stand up and step away. Step out of my office and let me handle the politics, thank you." Kay knew that he was only trying to help, yet she glared at him all the same. There was no doubt that she'd have a few words with him later.

She looked to [member="Keira Verd"] next while the woman addressed her and spoke of her past in regards to the Sith. She nodded while she listened, not passing any judgement on her experiences. If anything, they were a benefit. "He is a monster. You are right in that.
But there are more ways to fight than just through war. We will find a way."


Kay looked to [member="Beth Australis-Mantis"] when she spoke up next, her words respectul and well thought out for a girl her age. "Beth...I am not requesting for the Mandalorian Empire to fight our battles for us, nor am I requesting that they go to the front of the lines. The alliance between our two nations is stronger than that. You are all more than just soldiers for hire to me. I only hope that you would all believe me when I say that."

[member="Aeden"] Miles spoke up next. Kay let out a breath, glad that for the moment, people were keeping hold of their tempers, as well as their weapons. The last thing that she needed was for it to get physical here.

The laughter from [member="Raiz Australis"] caught her attention next. Yasha was quite lucky to have so many stand by her side. Kay's office was beginning to get quite crowded. There wasn't even seats for everyone here. Not even for half of them. Oh boy...She should have picked a larger room.

She smirked a little as [member="Jaster of Clan Awaud"] teased her. Leave it to him to try to diffuse the tension in the room. Yet hus experiences were noteworthy as well, especially given that he saw things from the other side. However she raised a brow as he told her that many routes were blocked. "What of the southern routes? It may take a bit longer of a journey with many different jumps, but surely those are still open? We aren't completely surrounded..." Kay bowed her head as he asked for his leave. "Thank you for your help, Jaster."

And now [member="Alkor Centaris"] made himself known. The last time that she had seen him, it was on Balmorra. She took in his words and once again repeated her stance. "I am not asking for a conflict. I am trying to avoid one.
I would not ask anything of you that I wouldn't do myself. This blockade is my immediate concern."
And it concerned her a lot. But it also showed her who was eager for a fight and who wasn't. There was a lot to take in.

Finally [member="Tom Taff"] arrived. He spoke his piece and was very well versed himself. She nodded to him as he stood by her, reminding them all of common sense. "Thank you Tom. And I'm sorry to hear about your father...I know well enough of what it's like to lose someone to Darkness." Like her husband.

Now Kay turned her attention back to her niece. "As you can see, we are unaccustomed to aggression being thrown our way.
It has some people...a little bit flustered and protective. I hope that you understand that they mean no ill will towards you or anyone else here."
 

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