Stoking The Forge Of Alliance [CA, TSE]

[Matt the Radar Tech]

CHISS SPACE​

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Undisclosed Location; Space.​

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The galaxy is divided into allies and enemies; but sometimes your greatest enemy is your own ego.​

A single Ticsuti-Class Chiss Star Destroyer floated in the void of space.

Standing alone at the bridge viewports, dressed in his military uniform of a pristine black-and-burgundy color, Mitth'orn'eruod stared at the stars. The deck was silent, save for the humming of holographs and whispers between crew, as the Chiss Commander continued to muse, gloved hands at the small of his back. There had been a meeting of the Ruling Houses, discussions held that had argued favorably toward a potential alliance with The Sith Empire. During the proceedings multiple angles of conversation had been brought up, many for, some against, and throughout the entire gathering Mitth'orn'eruod had remained steadfast in his belief that aligning with the Sith could prove more dangerous in the long run; yet, by the time the Ruling Houses had finished speaking, there seemed to be a majority in favor of considering the alliance, which led to Mitth'orn'eruod agreeing to oversee the proceedings, despite his misgivings.

Yet, not one to let his personal opinion get in the way of protecting the Chiss people, the young Commander would do his best to cement an alliance. And if the Ruling Houses had determined the Sith Empire were a suitable presence for the purpose, it wasn't Mitth'orn'eruod's prerogative to disagree... not unless there was real cause to, based on the Sith's attitude and expectations from being allies.

"Commander, sensors indicate vessels approaching from hyperspace," The crewman said from behind, eyes studying a panel of computer screens. "They should appear in front of us within moments."

"Thank you, Ensign," Mitth'orn'eruod responded, offering a glance over his shoulder and a nod to the Chiss. He added more quietly under his breath. "Now, let's see what the Sith bring to the table..."

Mitth'orn'eruod let out a low exhale, red eyes bright, as he watched the delegates from the Sith Empire begin to arrive...

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[member="Marina"] | [member="Darth Carnifex"]​

 

[Darth Carnifex]

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The Heresiarch, a Marr-class Star Destroyer outfitted with the Emperor's personal iconography, materialized out of hyperspace into the barren tract of empty space with a thunderous keening wail. Though easily over three times the size of the smaller Ticsuti destroyer, the Heresiarch made no attempts at any aggressive maneuvers. It lulled gently through the blackened void until a single shuttle, flanked by two SI-TIE fighters, emerged from the destroyer's ventral hangar bay.

It was the Crestfallen, the personal shuttle of the Sith Emperor which he had received as a gift from the Supreme Leader of the First Order. It wide raptorish profile glided gracefully through the vacuum of space, the high-pitched whine of the TIE fighters following not far behind. Onboard was the Emperor of the Dark Side himself and a small council of trusted attendants who would be accompanying his excellency on this diplomatic mission. Many of them were dignitaries who had proved to be indispensable to the Empire for their valor and dedication in bringing lesser systems into the Imperial fold with little loss of life for the Imperial Legion.

Others were members of his Inner Council or were high-ranking Lords of the Sith that the Emperor felt comfortable enough to include on his journey.

The shuttle relayed the specific clearance codes transmitted to the Emperor several rotations ago, they were accepted and the Crestfallen was allowed to dock in the smaller destroyer's hangar. With a metallic groan and the hiss of hydraulic steam, the Emperor's shuttle comes to a rest on the metal deck of the hangar. The boarding ramp descended, and the Emperor himself emerged flanked by two of his loyal Crownguard. The other delegates would soon follow behind as the gargantuan warrior-king strode boldly across the hangar, meeting whatever Chiss envoy they had sent to guide him to the commander he was deigned to treat with.

Emperor Carnifex anticipated great things to be wrought from this meeting.

Great things.

[member="Thorne"] | [member="Marina"] | [member="Vanessa Vantai"]​

 

[Darth Morbian]

Standing ever present, ever ready, in the shadow of his father, the young Knight seemed almost a statue, a rigid presence, a living testament of the will of the God-King, the Emperor. Darth Morbian lived to exert his father's will. This diplomatic mission was no different in that regard to the young Knight.

The art of diplomacy. Perhaps a lesson of great value to be gleaned this trip... he mused, expression invisible beneath the mask he donned. It was a simple thing really, no discernible features upon its smooth, opaque surface. Nowhere near as ornate or imposing as those typically worn by his father or uncle upon the fields of battle, but this was because Sethaius did yet deem himself worthy of donning such a terrifying visage. Not yet, at least.

As the shuttle approached the Chiss vessel, the young Knight couldn't help but feel a smirk cut across his face. What benefit would these Chiss bring to his father's table, in exchange for the might the God-King would be capable of giving in return?

[member="Darth Carnifex"] | [member=Thorne]​

 

[Onrai]

[member="Darth Carnifex"] [member="Darth Morbian"] [member="Thorne"]

Could history ever repeat itself to this degree?

The Sith and the Chiss Ascendancy had worked in concert over numerous years. Vanessa had even recalled their past interaction prior to the destruction of both the Sith Empire and the One Sith. And now she had come, using her position as Arch-Magus as leverage in order to persuade the addition of herself to this important diplomatic mission. This was an opportunity to assist the Emperor in his attempt to further the Sith Empire's association with other like-minded factions. On board the shuttle, she closed her eyes - foresight was not her best skill, but she was still willing to give it a shot, to at least feel out how this would go.

Quite well, it felt.

 

[Matt the Radar Tech]

The Sith delegates and lords were greeted by a small gathering of Chiss soldiers in the hangar bay, each in immaculately pressed black uniforms, standing at attention on either side of a single female Chiss before the group. She stood with her chin level, red eyes glowing, hair cropped short at the jawline; unlike the others, she had red piping along the seams of her uniform, and an Ensign badge on her chest. As the Sith approached, she bowed her head, falling into step without missing a beat, while motioning with her hand toward the doorway that opened further away.

"I am Ensign Mesa'ebito'puze," She said, voice even, eyes level as she looked to the Emperor. "It is an honor to have you aboard the Cart'ar, one of our many Ticsuti-Class Chiss Star Destroyers. I will escort you to Commander Mitth'orn'eruod, presently."

The interior of the Chiss vessel was, in a word, pristine. Every plate of hull and decking aligned perfectly, creating near seamless corridors that maximized space, with intricately designed support bracketing that barely hindered the spacious effect. Were it not for the exterior view the arrivals had, it would be forgivable if they presumed they walked on a far larger vessel. The plating itself was an almost glowing white, with jet-black accents and walkways; those with the knowledge would likely realize that the hull was touching the infrared spectrum...

"I apologize if you are unable to see it, my lords," Mesa'ebito'puze said, her voice cutting through the strangely quiet interior of the Destroyer. Despite many moving to one side and allowing the group passage, there were few sounds beyond usual ship echoes or systems. "But the hull is lined with infrared coating in places, allowing for what would otherwise be directions and deck information on other vessels. For example, to your left on the wall, indicates we are nearing the conference chamber. Just several more minutes, and we will arrive."

A number of equally clean, broad and open corridors later, and the group arrived. The Ensign stepped cleanly to one side of the double-doorway, bowing her head again.

"I will be here to escort you at the completion of the meeting, my lords."

She then pressed a button beside her, and the doors opened, revealing a brightly lit room within.

Mitth'orn'eruod waited patiently.

Now within the confines of the conference chamber, the Chiss had a moment to think to himself, away from prying eyes. He stood, at the rear of the room, opposite the doorway, with a datapad in hand. Red eyes were narrowed as they looked over sensor information, the Cart'ar performing non-intrusive and passive scans of the Sith Star Destroyer beyond. The more intricate systems and information were impossible to attain without more aggressive scanning, so Mitth'orn'eruod had to make do with what could be gleaned in a less intrusive manner.

A shame, the Commander thought to himself, sighing. I would have liked to examine the weapons and defense systems... perhaps another time.

Still, there remained the meeting about to begin. Turning off the datapad screen, Mitth'orn'eruod placed it carefully on the table near his assigned seat, before he stood and held gloved hands at the small of his back. Above the doorway, a panel flashed quickly, indicating the guests were nearing. With a clearing of the throat, and a passive expression falling over his face, the double doors opened and the Commander was greeted with the visage of a small group of Sith; each was dressed in what Mitth'orn'eruod presumed were their personal choices, but he could see some similarities between members.

"Greetings," Mitth'orn'eruod said simply, nodding his head as he motioned to the table before him. "I am Commander Mitth'orn'eruod. You may call me by my core name of Thorne. Please, have a seat and be comfortable."

Immediately, red eyes looked to the Emperor, giving the large humanoid a subtle once over. Confidence, projected by power and stature, both physically and militarily, has no doubt as to status within the galaxy, and how others perceive him. Something more there? A mask atop a face, perhaps? A means to an end, projecting what is expected. Also a belief that things will go as expected, perhaps? Not an incorrect assumption, by any means, yet reactions to certain topics may shift that expression... that should prove amusing. Those eyes shifted, taking in the other tall male beside the Emperor. The mask, formless, expressionless, contrary to a dark sider one would presume. Hiding ones emotions? Or shamed by them, perhaps hiding until the right to reveal is earned? Similar stature to the Emperor. Younger, strong, certainly similar species, perhaps related... the similar gait could indicate familiarity with Kaine, perhaps student or familial. Is it an attempt to appear subservient and obedient? Shifting eyes took in the blonde female humanoid. The female's eyes show depth, a wisdom, perhaps beyond her years. Certainly a strong stride, confident, perhaps arrogant, a similar certainty shared by the Emperor? Perhaps a leader in her own right, within the Sith? Her mind is constantly working, her eyes show that much...

Unlike the retinue of dark side users, Mitth'orn'eruod stood alone, no other Chiss in the room. He waited for the guests to sit, before he sat himself. The table was shaped like an octagon, with no clear head, and no real indication of yielding placement. So was all meetings among Chiss, so unlike other cultures who sought to gain visual stature above others. In this regard, a meeting of minds would come down to one thing - rank. And on this vessel, Mitth'orn'eruod was the Commander, and the Sith his guests; and as was proper, he would afford them even hospitality, despite the carefully concealed disdain he held for members of the group, particularly their Emperor... but Mitth'orn'eruod would come back to that, once the pleasantries were over.

There were certainly some things to discuss with their ruler.

The double-doors closed silently.

"I hope your journey to the Chiss regions was comfortable and uneventful," Mitth'orn'eruod said. "I trust Ensign Mesa'ebito'puze - er, Ebito - was a pleasant escort. She relishes the opportunity to speak with other sentients of the galaxy, it is certainly an exciting moment and opportunity for her. But not only the Ensign, as we have much to discuss concerning our peoples moving toward a consanguinity, of sorts."

If Mitth'orn'eruod felt any sense of discomfort being surrounded by the Sith, he didn't show it. His expression remained level, his eyes steady and observant, and his posture comfortable.

"Might I have the honor of your companions' titles and names, Emperor Kaine?"

Knowing a title and rank was important to Chiss. The young Commander did not wish to insult those gathered by ignoring their achievements and stature within their respective groups...

---

[member="Marina"] | [member="Darth Carnifex"] | [member="Vanessa Vantai"] | [member="Darth Morbian"]​

 

[Darth Carnifex]

The Emperor remained silent throughout the journey into the bowels of the destroyer, his gait confident and his steps taken with purpose as the followed the smaller Ensign through its winding innards. The interior of the ship was not too dissimilar from that seen on other Imperial-inspired models, though with several notable differences in coloration and aesthetic. He could appreciate the Chiss putting their own architectural philosophy into practice onboard their vessels, especially now that they were out from under the Iron Empire's thumb.

Yes, they would make suitable allies in the Unknown Regions.

They were led to the vessel's conference chamber, where Mitth'orn'eruod awaited the Sith congregation. The Emperor's eyes adjusted quickly to the brighter environment, with only a single blink needed to clear away the sudden glare as they fell upon the Commander. "The trip was indeed uneventful, Commander Thorne, but the long journey gave me plenty of time to meditate." On the Dark Side, naturally. Carnifex had spent the many hours of travel immersed in his private sanctum, his mind and spirit reflecting on the immeasurable darkness that permeated the veil of reality, feeding off of the growing tide of shadows that continued to bathe the galaxy in violence.

"And your subordinate performed her task dutifully, as is to be expected. As for my companions, the Knight to my left is Darth Morbian, and the woman to my right is Darth Pandeima. I have deemed it necessary that they attend this meeting. A courtesy you were privileged to partake in, at your own discretion. Though your decision is not totally unexpected." He had dealt with several Chiss in the past, and several of them had espoused this same demeanor. Though there was something about Commander Thorne that set him apart from the rest.

The Emperor would take his seat, and patiently await the proceeding's beginning.

[member="Marina"] | [member="Thorne"] | [member="Vanessa Vantai"] | [member="Darth Morbian"]​

 

[Darth Morbian]

Strides echo ominously along the sterile seeming corridors, as the Knight strode alongside his father. The Sith Lord with them was unknown to him though. He would seek more understanding of her at a later date. They were here for something more important than idle curiosity of the company his father keeps. Besides, they swiftly found themselves standing before the Commander of the vessel they were upon. Names and titles of himself and the accompanying Lord were asked. A curt nod, and a standard Imperial salute was offered as he was introduced.

As his father took a seat, Sethaius elected to remain standing unless the Emperor commanded him to do otherwise, adopting an at-rest position, hands clasped behind his back, feet planted shoulder width apart, and blank face-plate oriented on the far wall behind the Chiss Commander. Darth Morbian effectively appeared to be a living statue, as the only perceptible sign of life coming from him was the faint rising and falling of his chest of respiration, but nothing else. He was here merely to be an observer, to learn through observation, to better serve his Emperor in the future, in diplomatic missions less worthy of the Emperor's direct attention.

[member="Darth Carnifex"] | [member="Thorne"] | [member="Vanessa Vantai"]​

 

[Onrai]

Darth Pandeima. It had been decades since she had ever heard anyone refer to her under that name. Yet here she was, perhaps some kind of blast from the past. For now she would merely sit, nodding when she was introduced and considering what it was that the Chiss had to offer to the Sith Empire - and the Empire to the Chiss. Patience was, for now, all she could contribute to the conversation.

After all, no reason to step on anyone's toes this time.

[member="Darth Morbian"] [member="Darth Carnifex"] [member="Thorne"]

 

[Matt the Radar Tech]

As the introductions were completed, with Mitth'orn'eruod nodding again to each individual so named in turn, he took note of each Sith's state.

The young Sith, rigid, unable to relax, perhaps suspicious? Alert? Certainly, given presently standing in an unknown vessel with an unknown individual. However, more likely dutiful, feels obligation to be ready at a moments notice, willing to do anything to prove himself? Potentially dangerous, having that kind of mindless dedication to another, more than enough opportunity to have it manipulated against you. Looking to the blonde, merely a brief flicker of the eyes, Mitth'orn'eruod caught a small flash of heat from her face. Mild reaction to her title, perhaps? Some mixture of surprise and pride? Perhaps worth mentioning her Sith name, gauge the secondary reaction, determine if it's some point of contention or simply a less frequent usage? Either way, still patient, still watching, observing and preparing. Those intense red eyes turned to the Emperor. Seated, patient, waiting for myself to begin proceedings. Perhaps an attempt at setting the bar, seeing how the Chiss view the importance of this potential alliance? He has certainly noticed the lack of other Chiss, clearly able to determine two things - I do not need an entourage for this task, and that I am the only individual he need discuss this with... clearly formidable as a combatant and to some degree a diplomat, again that personal touch has developed such a rounded, controlled bearing? A fierce warrior, no doubt, able to control his rage until he determines it time to cease doing so. Intriguing. Dangerous.

Seated before the Sith, the Chiss settled back and adopted a more casual posture. One leg across the other at the knee, one elbow propped on the armrest, the hand resting against his pointed chin. He allowed several moments to pass, the silence hanging, before he opened his mouth to speak.

"Before we begin with who can offer whom what, I would provide some context. As you are no doubt aware, the Chiss Ascendancy has reached a point of re-familiarizing itself with the galaxy," Mitth'orn'eruod said pointedly, obviously aware of the fact, but still stating it. "There were several reasons for this. The first, we as a people have sought to reestablish our stature as a strong galactic entity, to remind others that what befell our people in the past will never happen again. As such, we are expanding. Rapidly. And will continue to do so."

Mitth'orn'eruod clearly spoke of the Iron Empire, and their subjugation of what would have normally been Chiss space.

"The second, is that given the current political climate, and the galactic placement of various elements, there is a very real threat of Core World and Mid Rim saturation," The Chiss paused, as the double-doors opened and a soldier walked in carrying an array of refreshments on a plain tray. He placed it on the table near the Sith, not hindering their view of their host, before bowing his head and retreating. "This saturation by certain groups and Governments could very likely begin closing entire sections of the galaxy from the other - a split down the middle, if you will, where expanding beyond that line would no longer be possible.

"And given my first point, this presents a clear problem to our plans."

Lowering his leg, both boots on the ground, Mitth'orn'eruod sat forward as he placed both elbows on the table, his hands clasped before his face. He kept his eyes level with Kaine, his lips compressing into a thin line.

"The third and final reason, which admittedly is of a more internal matter for the Chiss, is the potential resurgence in the Killik species," The Commander's expression returned to normal, subtle as it was. "As you no doubt already know, the Killik present a very severe problem to any region of space they occupy. They breed and consume, and if left unchecked, are able to wage wars against entire planetary systems in a single blow... and while this situation is being monitored carefully, I felt it prudent to mention, if only for your own knowledge and preparation, should our neighbors be unable to handle their end of the potential infestation."

Clearly the Chiss would not hesitate to take action, as they had done in the past. Whether the more morally inclined groups were in a position to take such action remained to be seen, and should they be swarmed, then it would only be a matter of time before the Sith Empire and its allies faced the same. The Killiks were - and always would be - a menace, one that the Chiss should have wiped from the galaxy long ago. But alas, it was difficult to end a problem when it could nest in makeshift vessels and sail through space to any point or location...

"As surely, Emperor Kaine, you are an individual more than capable of adopting such stances against sentients, yes?"

Mitth'orn'eruod's eyes narrowed slightly, the skin tightening around the eyelids, as he held an unwavering stare. It was clear as to what he referred to, and it was clear from his previous points that such action against the Chiss would be unacceptable, no matter the status between the two groups as a result of this meeting...

---

[member="Marina"] | [member="Darth Carnifex"] | [member="Vanessa Vantai"] | [member="Darth Morbian"]​

 

[Darth Carnifex]

The Emperor allowed Command Thorne to clearly and concisely lay out what was on his mind, his eyes never wavering from the Chiss' own even as another attendant was granted entry to the chamber. A plate of refreshments was placed within arms reach of each Sith representative, but that did not dissuade the Emperor from merely reaching out with his will and levitating one of the supplied beverages into his waiting hand. He tentatively took a sip, letting the flavor wash over his taste buds and down his gullet as Command Thorne finished his monologue.

"The time of the Core and Inner Rim has come to an end, Commander. The center of the galaxy still lies in ruins after the war between the One Sith and the Galactic Republic devastated it, now the future of the galaxy is in the Outer Rim and the Unknown Regions. As the Core declines, new cultural centers are emerging in what was once considered backwater space. My Empire has gone to great lengths to bolster and improve every world that comes under our control. With time I can see Csilla rivaling even Coruscant in grandeur, with the Chiss at the forefront of galactic magnificence."

Behind the Sith, naturally, but the Emperor didn't feel it wise to vocalize that last little tidbit.

"And as for the Killiks, I can assure you that the Sith Empire will be ready and willing to lend whatever aid is necessary to eradicate this pestilence. I have no shortage of experience in dealing with such nuances, for there are some creatures in this galaxy of ours that cannot understand anything other than utter annihilation. Such measures must be taken by the strong to secure the sanctity of all, that is our burden." The weak were witless sheep that needed a skilled and experienced shepherd to guide them, otherwise, they would destroy themselves if given the opportunity of self-determination. It was the destiny of the Sith to assume this role of guide, leader, and arbiter of justice. The Jedi and their Republican allies were incapable of doing so, they had proven time and time again that their hold over power was unwieldy and reckless. The Sith Empire had done the galaxy a favor of ripping out the heart of the Free World's Coalition, and it would do so again to any government that proved to be as ineffectual and dangerous as they had been.

"Vermin do not deserve to exist alongside such luminous beings as we, Commander. I think you can appreciate that."

[member="Marina"] | [member="Thorne"] | [member="Vanessa Vantai"] | [member="Darth Morbian"]​

 

[Darth Morbian]

The younger Epicanthix made no motion as the refreshments were brought in. The soldier was dutiful. No order was given to consume, to remove the helmet, to sit. He observed the exchange motionless, though keen and curious. It sounded like there would be violence to be had down the road, should an alliance be formed with the Chiss. Not a bad break, in his mind.

The Killiks... this was a species that the young Knight made mental note to research. An apex predator must always understand the prey he was to hunt. An amused smirk cut across his face, unseen, as he mused to himself.

I wonder, do the vermin feel pain?

[member="Darth Carnifex"] | [member="Vanessa Vantai"] | [member="Thorne"]​

 

[Onrai]

"How Hand-like." The Empire of the Hand, Thrawn's ancient creation, was truthfully the closest to some sort of analogue Vanessa could develop. "I can hardly disapprove of your course of actions, Commander." She continued. "The actions of the Galactic Alliance will soon no longer be an issue once the weapon systems we've developed are put into play. The likelihood of action rendered against the offensive and innately corrupt 'righteous' power is... high."

​She continued listening regarding the Killik situation. "Have you considered simply redirecting the Killiks to Mugg Fallow and letting the primordial ooze on that planet devour them?" Vanessa inquired. "No one wants that dead world, after all, and I'm certain the Killiks are foolish enough to consider it a source of biomass. Perhaps even expending effort to try and claim the world."

​Once more, Vanessa returned to listening.

@Thorne [member="Darth Carnifex"] [member="Darth Morbian"]

 

[Matt the Radar Tech]

Mitth'orn'eruod listened, face passive, still maintaining his forward seating position. Gloved fingers to his chin, the Commander listened, hearing all the right things from the Emperor - and paying even more attention to everything that wasn't said. These were intelligent individuals, far from the uncontrollably emotional Sith any number of sentients would claim was the case. Some would say they were a new breed, completely underestimating what Sith were capable of, swearing that up until now they were psychopathic and driven solely to kill; and while this certainly wasn't untrue, Sith did partake in such actions as did most factions within the galaxy, the simple fact remained that the Sith had always been as they are now - calculated, prepared.

Sentients believe what they are often told to believe.

Given his want to understand, Mitth'orn'eruod was no stranger to history. And there were numerous instances where an uncontrolled killing machine wouldn't have been in a position to enact such change for their benefit in such a way; Kun, Palpatine, Bane, Krayt, Carnifex. But a few. Yet, information - as limited as it was - inferred one thing about these types of Sith, and it was cunning. The capacity to plan, deceive and otherwise say what needed to be said, in order to manipulate another to ones desired outcome. The premise simple, the execution difficult, with innumerable variations in between from every individual.

But, Mitth'orn'eruod understood cunning.

"Certainly an intriguing scenario," Mitth'orn'eruod said to Carnifex, nodding his head slightly. "Indeed, as you say, worlds that come under Sith control truly benefit from the efforts your people are putting forward. Stability, economic growth, security-" Constant threat, claimed resources, sentients used at a whim. "-and the opportunity to avoid conflict with other groups or Governments that would otherwise seek to consume a lonely, unaffiliated people such as ours."

Mitth'orn'eruod was no fool. Carnifex was no fool. None of the sentients in this room were fools, not even the obedient guard. Each knew that the other knew exactly how this went. For now, both sides had nothing to lose, but everything to gain, by agreeing to terms; even if those terms were rendered void at a later date, in the distant future. Presently, each side occupied a different end of the galaxy, so the potential for early conflict of interest was nonexistent, and the benefit of supporting one another was a great boon. After all, when your enemies were in the middle, one couldn't deny the strength of a two-pronged attack against them.

"The Chiss seek little in the way of grandeur, instead wanting nothing more than insulation against encroaching threats," Mitth'orn'eruod continued, easing back in his seat. "In this regard, this is the reason we expand our borders. We are a pragmatic people, after all. We seek to place as much space between dangers in the Unknown Regions and Csilla as possible. That said, the galaxy is a large place, and we do not see our interests conflicting in this regard. We have little want to move to your present side of the galaxy, nor do we intend to go that far abroad in the future... so, this begs the question, at which point do the Sith decide they have controlled enough worlds? And does this reach intend to overshadow Chiss space?"

Never, truly, and entirely, no doubt.

When the other Sith spoke, the Commander turned his head, and listened attentively.

"An astute observation," The female's mention of the Hand, presumably the Empire of the Hand, caused Mitth'orn'eruod to incline his head. The mention implied she was at least knowledgeable of the capability Thrawn possessed, and what he was capable of, which meant that her understanding of Mitth'orn'eruod's methodology in these discussions could be estimated accurately. "And a very potential notion regarding the Killik, certainly, Darth Pandeima... however, we would be more comfortable ensuring the Killik were dealt with personally. To ensure results, and leave little to chance."

Mitth'orn'eruod smiled faintly.

"And certainly, few could be said to be more hypocritical than the Jedi, in this we agree," Mitth'orn'eruod said, though knew the Sith weren't far behind in that regard. "I look forward to seeing the results of your weapon developments. Perhaps I could even assist in offering suggestions to further improve them, as we Chiss do possess a reputation for doing just that. Simply let me know, and we can discuss further at another time?"

Mitth'orn'eruod waited for responses patiently, eyes shifting to the youth standing. He was not forgotten.

---

[member="Darth Carnifex"] | [member="Vanessa Vantai"] | [member="Darth Morbian"]​

 

[Darth Carnifex]

"We stand at an important junction, Commander. The Core governments are failing, and with your aid, we three Imperial powers, the Sith, the First Order, and you the Chiss, are poised to carve up the galaxy among ourselves if we play our cards right. An equal partition of the galaxy, with enough room in each territory for economic stability. And beyond that? There are rumors of a method for traveling beyond the rim of the galaxy to other galaxies, much like the Yuuzhan Vong had done over eight hundred years ago."

It was his ultimate goal, to establish a Dark Side Empire that would dwarf everything that had come before it. Through the Dark Side, he would rule over all creation, bending it to his will as he prepared to spread his malignancy to the entire universe, becoming the ultimate being and ruling over the darkness for all eternity.

However, it was a dream that the Emperor did not mean to share with anyone else.

"I assume that will be a rather fair compromise for all factions, though for many years I suspect we will be at such a distance that it will never be an issue. Control of the galaxy cannot be won in a few weeks, it will take decades. The Sith Empire would like for the Chiss Ascendancy to be partners in this grand new order we have foreseen, and as stated before we will be more than willing to lend support, weapons, ships, and other resources in securing your hold over the Unknown Regions. My spies report that other groups may seek to cannibalize the Iron Empire's forming holdings. Time is of the essence, Commander, those who delay will be consumed."

[member="Marina"] | [member="Thorne"] | [member="Vanessa Vantai"] | [member="Darth Morbian"]​

 

[Onrai]

[member="Marina"] [member="Thorne"] [member="Darth Morbian"] [member="Darth Carnifex"]

"Oversight of such guiding would of course be required, from a safe distance of course." She said, listening to the furthered dialogue between both of the other major players at the table. "If it is a fair point to inevitably bring up - even if we develop successful intergalactic travel methods, then eventually, we will come to an impasse where each of us will have an equal amount of territory and will only be able to gain at the expense of the other. Should we merely assume that such a conflict is an inevitability, albeit one centuries if not millennia away from now, or should we attempt to find a way to prevent this from ever happening in the first place?"

Allies at each others' throats would not be beneficial, after all.

 

[Matt the Radar Tech]

Mitth'orn'eruod listened, nodding.

"I concur, Emperor Kaine," The Chiss said simply, as he reached for a refreshment and took a sip of the sweet liquid within. "Delay will certainly result in lost opportunity and potential enemy strength increasing to be brought to bear against us. As it stands, I suspect our respective sources inform us of the same groups, which has prompted this meeting. I believe the terms you have outlined about territory are acceptable, and the Chiss are not greedy, we will simply stake our claim in neighboring space and be content."

The Sith didn't know restraint beyond that which they desire. Mitth'orn'eruod was no fool, he knew Kaine would expand until nothing was left to claim, and then he would seek more. So it was time to ensure the advantage of keeping the Chiss involved and equal was provided...

"As it stands, our ventures into Unknown Space have been varying in success, but certainly promising in result. We are perfecting technology that we aim to use to move beyond the limitations of our galaxy, to explore new and uncharted regions of space... and we will offer this same capability, should you desire it, for more conquest, as it is completed and perfected. And so long as the Chiss Ascendancy remains, so too will the same support as the Sith be on offer and the knowledge we can bring of the Unknown Regions."

Turning to Darth Pandeima, Mitth'orn'eruod raised an eyebrow.

"I believe we should presume that by that point, our collective reach will exceed beyond the trivial offerings of this galaxy. The Chiss will ensure that. The Sith, and the Emperor's reign, will not lack for subjects and systems to fall under his control in the expanse of galaxies beyond this one. And in return, we expect nothing more than to be unhindered in our own endeavors in our space, and to explore beyond as we desire. Certainly grounds for an agreeable alliance between our groups - equal standing in return for unending reach of the Sith away from Chiss space."

Looking back to Kaine, Mitth'orn'eruod maintained the other sentient's stare. The female was right, of course; such a conflict would be inevitable. However, it would not be soon, and it would be of little consequence as the Chiss would expand and increase in power, to the point that betrayal would be too costly a consideration for Kaine. Of that, House Mitth would be certain to exact, no matter how many generations it took to secure that balance of loss versus gain.

"What say you, Emperor Kaine?"

---

[member="Darth Carnifex"] | [member="Vanessa Vantai"] | [member="Darth Morbian"]​

 

[Darth Carnifex]

"That is agreeable, Commander. The Sith have no desire to expand into the Unknown Regions and Chiss space, our efforts are purely focused on expansion through the Tingel Arm and expeditions into the Core. Any presence in your realm of influence will only be supportive if you so desire it." And the Emperor meant every word, he had no immediate plans to even venture close to that area of space. The Tingel Arm was a much more succulent target since its abandonment by the Silver Jedi Order, and even now as they spoke dozens of systems fell to the advancing Sith Empire.

Rival despots were crushed, alliances were made, and vassal states were erected on the borders of the Empire. Reinforced marches that would make any military advance into the Empire excruciatingly difficult, a fierce deterrent against those who feared how much loss of life such a course of action could incur.

"The Alliance will no doubt look to the Chiss, and see with growing fear your power as you rise up to secure your destiny. They will no doubt attempt to dissuade you with honeyed words, before falling back on violence to enforce their ideology against the Chiss people, once more bringing them under the shackles of democracy. When that happens, the Sith will stand with you to repel any and all invaders, Commander, this is a solemn vow I pledge as the Emperor of the Sith Empire."

[member="Thorne"] | [member="Vanessa Vantai"] | [member="Darth Morbian"]​

 

[Onrai]

“Then our alliance is sealed.”

Of course it was still a temporary measure - not surprising in the slightest. Both sides were devious, duplicitous, and more than likely already planning a scheme to backstab the associates of the other sooner rather than later. Vanessa was not particularly interested in petty politicking, however - all her desire was based around was the spreading of the corruption of the Dark Side. The more of an opportunity she could gain the chance to spread her influence, and thus, the influence of the Dark Side.

“I for one would be interested in a... more direct association with our newfound allies, my Emperor. After all, the closer the ties, the swifter the fall of our mutual enemies.”

[member="Thorne"] [member="Darth Carnifex"] [member="Darth Morbian"]

 

[Darth Morbian]

The young Knight remained motionless, static, but ever present and aware. The meeting appeared to be largely a formality. Both sides appeared to be in agreement that they stood to gain significantly more by cooperating in the now, even with the impending counter-play and skulduggery that would come in the future, than they did as impassive, if not hostile, towards one another.

In the end, Sethaius was far from political. It is why father would have never sent him as the sole emissary for a conversation such as this. No, Sethaius was a blunt instrument. He served narrow purposes. Pain, terror, and death. Where any of those three were to be found in quantity, would be where the young Sith Knight would be put to best use.

No, Sethaius knew his father brought him as an Ace, just in case things went against what was foreseen. But, perhaps now, the young Knight might find new opportunities to hone his crafts. The science of pain. Perhaps these Chiss allies could find use and value in the... giftings.... that Seth has....

[member="Vanessa Vantai"] | [member="Darth Carnifex"] | [member="Thorne"]​