The Mandalorian Gambit

[Progflaw99]

(Source Image)​

From: The Office of the Grand Moff, Natasi Fortan
To: Manda'lor, Mandalorian Empire

Greetings in the name of the Supreme Leader and people of the First Order,

The First Order is committed to bringing an era of peace and stability to our galaxy through collaboration with our galactic neighbors. Through our wide network of intelligence resources, it has come to our attention that there may be among the Mandalorian Empire, elements that desire to establish diplomatic ties between our two great peoples. I write to confirm that the First Order would be pleased to offer a hand and establish a diplomatic presence, and to that end would like to determine a time and location where delegates of both entities may meet. I think it would be in both of our best interests to conduct the meeting in neutral space, so as to prevent any feelings of concern to both parties.

My office will work with you on establishing a set of understood procedures regarding the meeting while accounting for cultural considerations. If you could please advice my office of any cultural, ecological, or other concerns about which my Ministry of Foreign & Colonial Affairs should be aware, we will be happy to accommodate anything you may need.

With kind regards,

​

It had been that message which sparked a flurry of activity. Not so much the message itself as the implication and gravity of such a thing. Small perhaps in the grand scheme but Dante knew that all it took to knock down a house of cards was a touch of wind. When Dante had first expressed his trepidity around the situation, [member="The Major"] had been the first to point out that the First Order wasn't exactly a house of cards, and the Mandalorian Empire wasn't exactly a 'touch of wind'... Okay, so the analogy wasn't perfect. He'd admit. It hadn't saved him from the paperwork, regardless.

"Get me everything you have on the Mandalorian Empire." his folly unknown until he was left looking at terabytes of data over the next few weeks. *Don't I pay people for this?* he thought more than once during the process. Unfortunately for the Moff, it was his job to be in the know.

The Grand Moff's rise had been a surprise, to be sure, but a welcome one. The two had butted heads more than once over the last years but something in the dynamic had changed. Perhaps equally for each. In any case, Dante had gone from being a political rival to something of a closet supporter of the woman's. Though he would openly criticize her in meetings, more often than not he would back her completely when the time came for some important measure to be instated or signed off on - at least those that required his signature as a formality. Moreover, the two had begun working together on measures to ensure both the safety and security of the First Order. Prone as he was to long disappearances, Dante preferred to rely on someone who was present. In this case, the Grand Moff had a much better track record at keeping up appearances. Though, he'd never say such thoughts aloud.

As it stood, Dante and [member="The Major"] had done a significant amount of footwork. Paging through data, picking out the relevant bits and incorporating them into some kind of agreement that could be met between the two Empires. It had finally come down to a neutral station near Reecee. In its original configuration, it had been a small cargo port, established for quick resupply on vessel's way around the deep core - then re purposed as a diplomatic point for several regional governments. After more than one discussion at length about the viability of the station as a point for talks, it was agreed upon. Much to the Security Minister's chagrin however, restriction of weapons wasn't something they could push too hard - a Mandalorian without his weapons? Better luck seeing a Krayt Dragon in your lifetime.

Dante took a deep breath inward, adjusting the heavy duty belt at his waist. *I forgot how uncomfortable these were.* he thought to himself. Much more familiar with the weight of a concealed weapon, the whole kit and caboodle felt foreign to the man. Black gloss leather, heavy wool-like uniform. Dark leather gloves. The whole thing had grown tiresome, at least the regale of it. *One of the pitfalls of power.* thought the Moff.

"Not still hungover from last night, are we Director Shepard?"​

​

His voice was clear, eyes twinkling with mischief. From his appearance, one wouldn't have guessed that only a mere eight to ten hours ago he was quite inebriated. No smell of liquor, no hint of fatigue, not even a sensitivity to light as the bright overhead in the turbolift shone down upon the delegation. Dante didn't need to look to imagine the expression of disapproval etched upon the Grand Moff's face. Inwardly he smiled. Soon enough they'd arrive at the chamber designated for their meeting, all the adventures of the previous night forgotten as the delegation from the First Order put aside all else and discussed the future. Though the meeting may not have been as ground shaking as some they'd had in the past, it was never wise to underestimate the power of diplomacy.

First Order Delegation:​

[member="Natasi Fortan"] (Grand Moff) | [member="Asharad Graush"] (Supreme Commander) | [member="Dante Calgar"] (Moff, Minister of Security)
[member="The Major"] (Director, FOSB) | [member="Madelyn Lowe"] (Governor, Minister of Foreign Affairs)

Mandalorian Empire Delegation:
[member="Yasha Mantis"] | [member="Keira Verd"] | [member="Alkor Centaris"] | [member="Cassiopeia Australis"]​

 

[Yasha Cadera]

Mand’alor the Infernal sat in her office within the Sundari Palace on Mandalore and received the communique from [member="Natasi Fortan"]. She sat back in her chair, watching her daughter [member="Adara Raxis"] play on the floor. Manda’yaim thrived outside, more new projects being built than deconstructed, raids and economic treaties bringing in goods and the companies of Mandalorian ownership exporting that which the Mando’ade could not, or did not use.

While some of a more violent bent wondered why the Infernal, a being forged in war and conflict, spent so much of her tenure upon economy, the rest realized it as it was. Reconstruction.

No one would topple her Empire. Not while she defended it.

Yet this tiding from the First Order came with a heaviness to Yasha’s heart. The Infernal picked up her cup of stimcaf and walked out the porch doors lining the side of her office, sipping the now lukewarm liquid before setting the mug down on the rail.

Scanning about the area out of old habit, Yasha noticed twelve bes’uliik and twenty four of her best warriors, a smaller number than the sizeable amount of Mando’ade who protected the Palace at all times hidden from view. After [member="Rex Taff"] roared in desire of Adara, and Carnifex admonished the girl-child’s value, Yasha decided upon a prudent defensive approach to the Palace and surrounding Sundari biodome.

The First Order… Grand Moff Fortan.

Adara giggled inside, her Panathan wet-nurse Aiya engaging the child in a game meant to build and maintain her mental function. It had colourful toys and lights… the game a gift from Adara’s godmother [member="Fiolette Yvarro"], as the wet-nurse was a gift from [member="Darth Carnifex"].

Perhaps it was dear Fio’s stories of the First Order and life on her homeworld which made the correspondence from the Grand Moff hit Yasha so deeply and warily. Surely she should hear them out.

Surely…

Surely.

“Lesotho, send the Grand Moff a reply… and get me [member="Tom Taff"] and [member="Alkor Centaris"]. Aiya, take Adara back to the apartments. Thank you.”

From: Mand’alor the Infernal, Yasha Mantis of House Fitz-Kierke (Panatha & Atrisia)
To: The Office of the Grand Moff, Natasi Fortan

We will entreat with you in the No-Asuk Waystation in the Sakura System. Mand’alor the Infernal expects the Station to be emptied of all but 100 warriors from each side, plus the diplomatic delegations. Any ships approaching the Station aside from the diplomatically marked shuttles delivering only the delegations will be seen as hostile and shot down by either Fleet, placed a minimum of 100 kilometres away from the Station at all times.

Cultural, ecological and logistical considerations attached below.

Mand’alor the Infernal
Yasha Mantis

Hell Wolf Star Cruiser
Command Deck

Mand’alor the Infernal standing encased in her beskar’gam was 8’1” tall. Epicanthix by birthright and honed in the violence of war, the albeit young woman refused to take even a single moment to disarm herself at all.

It was a particular action of respect to come armed to a meeting with one’s diplomatic equals. To come unarmed would be to say they did not even consider the First Order delegation worthy of the simplest respect, and thus none of the Mandalorian delegation would entreat without beskar’gam or weapons.

“What do you think, Cassi? After this summit shall we pop down to Sakura and I can house us all at the Fitz-Kierke Estate? Sip tea, and sake and enjoy the quiet calm of the manicured forest? Mmh. Maybe we should have vacationed before this meeting… are you ready all? Armed with our wits and settled in our steps? We know who we are and what we want.

Let us hear them out.” Yasha looked to each in turn, to [member="Cassiopeia Australis"], her faithful best friend and confidante, to the Verd Siblings [member="Keira Verd"] and [member="Alkor Centaris"] who became two of her most capable and loyal warriors after receiving Cin Vhetin (Clean Slate) and coming home, to [member="Tom Taff"], whose presence might have seemed innocuous at the instigation of the summit, but was no less valuable of opinion for the Mand’alor.

Their shuttle waited them, and with one final sigh to watch the Wolf’s Fang Fleet settled in their awaiting positions, the Mand’alor’s grey armour weave cloak fluttered aside as she lead the way to the shuttle and the delegation at the other side.

 

[Gaia Sunaris Cadera]

A meeting with the First Order? It wasn't something Cassiopeia was exactly expecting to hear from [member="Yasha Mantis"]. It turns out the First Order asked for diplomatic talks. Cassiopeia herself was never one to reject such things and usually enjoyed meeting with a variety of delegations, leaders, and so forth. It was almost always an interesting, fun to explore the cultural differences during a meeting between two nations. But, in either case, the First Order and the Mandalorian Empire would probably be met with some suspicious from both sides.

In either case, Cassiopeia naturally had her hopes set high. She was excited to come - to get her mind off her divorce from a few months ago, to the death of her child several months prior to that. [member="Lily-Grace"] was with [member="Adara Raxis"] and the Panathan nurses. They would have a sleepover for a few days while Cassiopeia and Yasha were gone. She trusted the nannies to watch over the kiddos well. So far, they had done an excellent job. Her personal life may have collapsed months ago, but at least her professional life had remained relatively unaffected by the chaos.

She gave a nod to Yasha. Cassiopeia wore her armor, although her buy'ce was retracted to show her face. A verpine handgun was holstered on her side. "I think that sounds like a splendid idea. Some tea, some sake... The quiet. It would be really nice, honestly." If it wasn't for the fact that she would be able to think about things. And she didn't really want to do that, considering all things. Cassiopeia felt confident she could overlook such a thing, though. Plus, she always wanted to some quality time with Yasha whenever they had the chance. "Ready as we ever will be, eh?" She gave a smile to [member="Keira Verd"], [member="Alkor Centaris"], and [member="Tom Taff"].

Cassiopeia followed behind Yasha and the other delegation.

[member="Natasi Fortan"] | [member="Asharad Graush"] | [member="Dante Calgar"] | [member="The Major"] | [member="Madelyn Lowe"]

 

[Keira Priest]

Her opinion on Imperials was, at best, indifferent. The last time she'd interacted with the First Order in a Mandalorian capacity had been when she and a raiding party had crashed a ship into one of their planets and proceeded to kill anyone and anything that stood in their way. That had been a rather cathartic day of fun, but now things were different. Now that government wanted some sort of diplomatic tie with her people, and the least they could do was hear them out. Neither side exactly trusted the other, but that's what they had beskar'gam for.

"If you can convince my brother to relax long enough to do that, sure. Doesn't sound like a bad idea." Keira looked to [member="Alkor Centaris"] as she pulled on her helmet, effectively rendering her just another Mandalorian to any outsiders. They deserved an impromptu vacation, after everything that had happened lately. With luck they would also be celebrating a successful diplomatic meet that ended in good tidings for both sides, but for that they would have to wait and see.

For armament she limited herself to her dagger, tomahawk and pistol, forgoing the more prominent weaponry that would undoubtedly set others on edge. Sidearms were more than enough, as they were intended to make a statement rather than to be utilized at any point, assuming things went well. For her it demonstrated she viewed the First Order as fellow warriors in some capacity, but it was also a warning that she wouldn't hesitate for a second if it came to that. Both were equally sound statements in their own right, and not something that would go unnoticed.

Keira followed behind her Mand'alor, ready to meet whoever awaited them.

[member="Cassiopeia Australis"] | [member="Yasha Mantis"] | [member="Tom Taff"] | [member="Natasi Fortan"] | [member="Asharad Graush"] | [member="Dante Calgar"] | [member="The Major"] | [member="Madelyn Lowe"]

 

[Ravenfire]

Tom stood in full beskar'gram with his owl Terry on his shoulder. The owl had been bathed in the lightside of the force by his adopted father a long time ago. Due to this bathing it brought a calm presence with it, especially for tom and for [member="Cassiopeia Australis"]. He needed it and it wasn't like the others would be able to feel it, most of them were force dead. Since from what he understood of the FO was almost nothing. He knew they were a dark sided group in terms of force users but beyond that, he didn't know.

His presence here was to watch the proceedings. He knew people would have no idea who he was and it could be possible most of them wouldn't notice him until he spoke up. It was how he hid from a lot of creatures and people. Hiding in plain sight, sometimes even in the vents. Not this time though he was needed nearby for [member="Yasha Mantis"].

"Indeed I am ready, I wish Kaine or Mykes were here." Tom would say honestly. He trusted both men with his life. He trusted [member="Keira Verd"] and @Alkor Verd as well but uncle Kaine was like a father figure to him since [member="Rex Taff"] disappeared. As for Mykes well that was a story for perhaps another less sensitive time. Tom laughed at Keira's suggestion. He knew what she meant. He was still a little tense himself.

He had brought with him, his two special lightsabres which hung off his belt. A personal shield attached quietly to his armour, his two normal vambraces attached to his arms. The blade of beginnings was hidden as normal within it's cloaking device and genesis was sitting bored inside his armour as well, she would help feed him information on people and how they were reacting throughout the mission. However that didn't mean she wouldn't have some fun first "I can't wait to see alkor relax, should be a sight." Her synthesised voice coming through tom's mikes.

 

[Natasi Fortan]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c-SPKB8R-e8​

​

The agreement of the First Order to meet with the Mandalorian Empire had found the Imperial Palace in Avalonia to be somewhat divided. Some remembered the trouble caused by the Mandalorians in their ill-fated raid on First Order property and the duplicitousness shown by their leader in extending the hand of diplomacy while carrying a brick with which to smash the First Order in the other hand. But the simple truth was that this was a new Mand'alor; a new administration that, in the minds of the First Order's leadership, ought not to be judged by the actions of the old. Natasi was confident in this logic as she disembarked the shuttle at the neutral station; Balance knew she had spent enough time, energy, and hassle overcoming the galactic memory of Eriadu to know that the misdeeds of one's predecessors ought not necessarily to define a current leader.

The Grand Moff entered the conference chamber. She was dressed simply, in a structured and tailored black dress reaching to her knees, with a wide boat-neck collar. Her rank badge was the only adornment to the dress, though she wore her platinum and sapphire engagement ring and her wedding band. Her other accessories were black, as befitting her status as a widow in mourning, and her hair was pulled back into a no-nonsense but fashionable bun. "Minister Calgar," she said as she approached the pair, extending a hand to the Minister of Security. "Director Shepard. You're to be commended, both of you, for handling this summit on short notice. I'll be sure a commendation is in each of your files."

Natasi rounded the table, studying it from this angle and that. She occasionally paused to make some slight adjustment to the setup -- straightening a notepad, shifting a glass to be in line with the others -- before stepping back and nodding. By the time she had finished that, the Foreign Office attachés had arrived carrying a chest containing the diplomatic gifts that would be presented as a show of good faith. They placed it on the table between Natasi's seat at the center of the delegation, and the seat marked for the Mand'alor.

As the Foreign Office men departed, Natasi turned back to her colleagues and approached them. "Where is the rest of our party?"

[member="The Major"] | [member="Dante Calgar"] | [member="Madelyn Lowe"] | [member="Asharad Graush"]​

[member="Yasha Mantis"] | [member="Cassiopeia Australis"] | [member="Tom Taff"] | [member="Keira Verd"] | [member="Alkor Centaris"]​

 

[Madelyn Lowe]

The news that the meeting had been moved to another location was received with some irritation. After all, the First Order's various diplomatic personnel, as well as significant assets from the Bureau, were already in place at the station near Reecee when the location was shifted at the request of the Mandalorian party. This seemed a bold and somewhat presumptuous move on their part, as they were the one's who'd requested the meeting. Madelyn, rather critical of the Mandalorian Empire, couldn't help but view it as a cheap ploy to gain some sort of power over the Order. Then again, perhaps she was just being cynical.

She was not the first of the suddenly uprooted delegation to arrive at the new location, the diplomatic corvette lent to her by the Foreign Office she was here to represent cruised into the main hangar of the station above Sakura. A small crew remained at the station, and as the ship settled onto its landing pads, they approached leisurely to refuel and check the vessel. Around the newly arrived vessel other diplomatic ships had already arrived, and unloaded their delagates. She checked the clock on her datapad. Late. How she hated to be late.

Hurrying down the boarding ramp, she and a small array of bodyguards and aides were hurriedly escorted through the gleaming passageways and hall, to the conference chamber, where several members of the delegation, including the Grand Moff herself, had already arrived.

With some trepidation she walked in, already expecting admonishment. Madelyn steeled herself and approached Grand Moff Fortan and the other ranking officials, her hands clasped in front of her in apology.

She bowed deeply, and took care to keep the nervous, wavering note out of her voice.

"My sincerest apologies, Your Excellency. It is not like me to be tardy, unfortunately my party was delayed when our... Venue changed."

[member="Natasi Fortan"] | [member="Dante Calgar"] | [member="Tom Taff"] | [member="Keira Verd"] | [member="Cassiopeia Australis"] | [member="Yasha Mantis"]​

 

[The Major]

She was fortunate: fortunate for the fact that their diplomatic meeting was set up quickly with a minimal amount of red tape to add a dread to these proceedings, fortunate that although the vectors both into and out of the meeting place had been secured -the galaxy being such an unfriendly place, and finally she was fortunate that her chromium First Order styled helm had covered her expression for most of the journey walking into the room in which diplomatic talks would take place. While it would be impossible for her to continue to wear the protection once the Grand Moff was in the room it did at least afford her some time to practice a placid, non confrontational expression while the migraine pounded away at her temples. Calgar, ever the charmer, worked his evil magic in the form of jokes. He of course managed to come away Solo-style form the binge. Either that or he had somehow tricked the Major in drinking way more than she perhaps should have. Regardless of that nonsense she wrinkled her nose momentarily as some of the other delegates walked in, bristling at seeing Natasi after their last conversation, yet still somewhat uplifted by her kind words. They weren’t necessary, since both Minister Calgar and Director Shepard had simply been doing their jobs as assigned, but nonetheless her gesture was appreciated -especially in such trying times.

Soon enough the delegation streamed in, with the Mandalorians each wearing their exotic suits which typified their culture. Celebrating the occasion, the Major had shown up in her own interpretation of impervious armor: the Garbage Suit. In the past these rascals had done their damage to some First Order holdings when their empire was much younger and solidifying their place in the galaxy. To think they had come so far in such a short amount of time, similar to how mold spreads quickly once it made the initial hurdle on some hapless bread. The ignorant would say it was due to their moxie and guile, but the reality was that the galaxy was in a highly disorganized state -and ripe for exploitation. The strong only had to seize the opportunity -and the Mandalorians had proven to have strength. Enough of it to at least command some respect. Enough of it to warrant the interest of the First Order.

The mechanics of this diplomacy had been calculated far in advance -meters both pro and con determined. As far as the Security Bureau Director could tell this meeting more was a chance for the younger empire to show their mettle and where they stood when playing on the larger scene. She knew that this was a great opportunity for them; they only had to pursue the right objectives and it could prove a boon to their efforts; on the other hand, the penchant for stupidity in the galaxy could permeate in any place.

...Only time would tell…​

Recent words of advice provided had shifted her perspective on a few things: for example, the late coming Madelyn Lowe. Seeking not to exacerbate a problem, she kept her gaze away and covered such with an admittedly lame attempt of examining some of the lining of her chrome plated battlearmor, drifting downward to her hands.

“...” ​

​

[member="Natasi Fortan"] | [member="Dante Calgar"] | [member="Tom Taff"] | [member="Keira Verd"] | [member="Cassiopeia Australis"] | [member="Yasha Mantis"] | [member="Madelyn Lowe"]​

 

[Alkor Centaris]

He entered behind the last of the delegation, suited entirely in his beskar'gam. The cloak drawn to one side revealed scarred and sooty plates, polished to where they no longer shined but reflected dim light. Alkor wore his Nephilim II on his back, albeit only half visible. There was sincere doubt that he'd draw the weapon at all, given the intention of this meeting was some kind of fragile peace.

Well, perhaps for the Imperials; for Alkor and the other Mandos, it was a chance to find a new employer, and with it, a new source of income. They were greeted in the standard way, with prim and proper Moffs dressed to the occasion.

He tilted his head at the sight of the token Imperial who elected to wear armor, and smirked beneath his mask. Was it an attempt at cultural understanding, or just a precaution? Or, perhaps, a bit of both? It amused him to think about.

Imperials were a proud and ferocious bunch, they always had been. He could tell nothing about them at a glance, and he cared very little to know more than that. What mattered was what they brought to the table.

Where the others sat, he took his place toward the entrance, standing near the door. While his input was considered valuable to [member="Yasha Mantis"], Alkor was a warrior first, and he insisted that he be placed on the security detail. She could always comm him if she needed an opinion. Their buy'ce were good for that.

He glanced at the others through his T-visor and folded his arms.

They were all here, it seemed.

 

[Progflaw99]

As time ticked by, Dante wondered if the Mandalorian delegation had gotten lost. It was a fairly straightforward route, but when you were used to crashing through walls rather than running along them... Dante stopped himself there, or rather he didn't need to. At that moment the delegation from the Mandalorian Empire had arrived, in all their... armor. For a moment, he felt comforted by the Major's chrome visage, though behind the visor he suspected there was a modicum of fatigue from their endeavors the previous evening - but when the cards were on the table, he knew she would pull through. She was a fighter, a survivor. Not unlike himself.

As the First Order's cultural exchange was presented, Dante eyeballed their own delegation. Perhaps the Grand Moff needed a bit of a jaunt, and nothing was going to get churned out of the meeting should they fail to pass beyond the initial formalities. Motioning to the others, Dante pulled the seat out at the center of the table, motioning towards Natasi.

"Your excellency." he said expectantly.​

​

As he waited for the Grand Moff to take her seat, Dante's eyes scanned across the foreign delegation. Each one clearly adorned in their infamous Beskar'gam, each without a doubt carrying any number of secret weapons on their person - Dante had planned for such. *Too much focus on a negative outcome can often become a self fulfilling prophecy.* With a disarming smile and a gaze directed at their leader, Dante spoke. Out of turn perhaps, however he was prepared to face the consequences given the possible reward this gambit could bring the First Order.

"Ladies. Gentlemen. I'm glad to see this meeting finally taking place. Now, to facilitate and put our best foot forward, I think it is important we get out in front of this. You as well as I know particularly well that our past relationship has been less than lustrous, muddled with the acts of a few individuals and poisoned by propaganda - I'd like to put that behind us, and look to the future. A future that could be beneficial for both our people and yours."

There it was. The opening move had been made, a single pawn set forth in the game that could span centuries. It was a concession on the part of the First Order, for certain. Did they have to forgive the past? No - but it was more advantageous to do so, and a measure Dante had held firm on despite his own personal feelings. That was the thing about the First Order, it was never about the self, it was about the Order. Some would boil it down to 'Sieger's Will' - Dante had always taken a more pragmatic approach. What was good for the Order was good for the Minister of Security. Dante had no doubt the Grand Moff would follow up with her own words, he didn't presume to speak on her behalf. Much had changed over the previous months, and the adversarial tone between the two had turned into something of a cautiously friendly relationship. Professional, as always, but Dante had gone from a rival to something more akin to a veiled supporter of the woman and her policies. *Even the lowest of us can be brought to see reason.* he mused. He was a perfect example.

First Order Delegation:​

[member="Natasi Fortan"] (Grand Moff) | [member="Asharad Graush"] (Supreme Commander) | [member="Dante Calgar"] (Moff, Minister of Security)
[member="The Major"] (Director, FOSB) | [member="Madelyn Lowe"] (Governor, Minister of Foreign Affairs)

Mandalorian Empire Delegation:
[member="Yasha Mantis"] | [member="Keira Verd"] | [member="Alkor Centaris"] | [member="Cassiopeia Australis"]​

 

[Progflaw99]

His words had been met with silence, an extended one at that. For a moment he thought he'd said something offensive but as he played back the words in his head he knew that couldn't have been the case. No, there was something else. Perhaps the delegation was having second thoughts about the First Order? It wouldn't have been the first time that a foreign nation was struck dumb in the face of the First Order - though Dante hadn't expected it from a people with such a storied martial history. With a glance towards their own delegation, Dante spoke again, this time more forcefully as if he thought it might spur the conversation onward.

"I won't bore you with the details of trade tariffs, fees, and taxes - our financial heads can work out the details. I think specifically though, technology sharing might be beneficial for both our nations. Given your recent shift from isolationist policies, perhaps we could assist you in that regard. The First Order has been on the very leading edge of technological advancement, our naval technology arguably some of the best in the galaxy. Likewise, the Mandalorian Empire has access to raw materials and precious metals that when combined with our technology could be used to great effect, both militarily and commercially. Is that something that interests you and your people?"

With a motion of his hand a junior officer stepped forward from the edge of the room, hands outstretched with a box. It was a fairly large box, longer than it was wide or deep, two latches holding it shut. Rising from his seat and retrieving it, Dante dismissed the young officer with a wave of his hand. Careful to open the box facing the delegation on the other side, he opened it slowly so they could see what was inside. Firmly held in place by the foam of the case was a First Order weapon, a blaster rifle to be exact. Standard issue to the Stormtrooper Corps.

"I've been told your people tend to favor their disruptors, but let me show you this." He gently moved the case towards them, encouraging them to handle the device. "Military technology like this is standard issue for our soldiers. Given the right motivation, and should this meeting bear fruit, we could assist you in fabricating weapons of similar design or even in limited quantities, supply you with these - and that is just the edge of the asteroid field so to speak."

Reseating himself, Dante glanced at the others to gauge their reactions. Military technology was often not the first thing brought to the table but with the Mandalorians, Dante had taken a risk. A calculated guess that it might just pique their interest. They were afterall, a war minded people at heart.

​

First Order Delegation:​

[member="Natasi Fortan"] (Grand Moff) | [member="Asharad Graush"] (Supreme Commander) | [member="Dante Calgar"] (Moff, Minister of Security)
[member="The Major"] (Director, FOSB) | [member="Madelyn Lowe"] (Governor, Minister of Foreign Affairs)

Mandalorian Empire Delegation:
[member="Yasha Mantis"] | [member="Keira Verd"] | [member="Alkor Centaris"] | [member="Cassiopeia Australis"]​

 

[Progflaw99]

Again the Minister of Security was met with silence, nothing but the cold faceplates of the Mandalorian delegation offering any kind of response. An awkward silence hung over the room, a furtive glance to the Grand Moff for some sort of direction - she gave none but returned the same confused expression Dante masked behind his silence. Lingering a moment more, Moff Calgar reached across the table and closed the lid of the case before retrieving it. A moment later it found its way passed back to the assistants standing behind the First Order. Was this some Mandalorian negotiation method he'd not read about? Perhaps he'd misspoken and offended them? Nothing came to mind, and that's when his mind went to work.

If they weren't offended perhaps they meant to intimidate - a game Moff Calgar deigned not to play.

"Perhaps this meeting was called too soon - by all appearances, you have nothing to offer towards the conversation. A shame really." he continued. "It seems this has been a colossal waste of time. Both of my own and of the Grand Moff's, not to mention the Supreme Leader's most of all."​

​

Dante slid his seat in, fingers stretching as he rest his hands upon the back of the seat. As he continued to speak, his eyes looked from one member of the delegation to the next.

"I think this has gone on for long enough - unless there's a reason we should stay?"​

​

First Order Delegation:​

[member="Natasi Fortan"] (Grand Moff) | [member="Asharad Graush"] (Supreme Commander) | [member="Dante Calgar"] (Moff, Minister of Security)
[member="The Major"] (Director, FOSB) | [member="Madelyn Lowe"] (Governor, Minister of Foreign Affairs)

Mandalorian Empire Delegation:
[member="Yasha Mantis"] | [member="Keira Verd"] | [member="Alkor Centaris"] | [member="Cassiopeia Australis"]​

 

[Yasha Cadera]

Ooc: sorry! Posting on my phone!

Silence greeted many of the first words the First Order spoke. While some was as simple as reading translations into her first language of Epicant, the rest included hard thought. Her councillors likewise were quiet but for Keira. One must know both their enemies and their friends.

“Your idea of making some form of diplomatic bond with my Empire is stating your weapons technicians could teach Mandalorians about guns?” The Wolf-Helm twitched to the side, cautious as she looked from her people to the First Order.

“I require one thing only from the First Order, which was substantial enough to require this meeting. Some years prior, you contracted a Mandalorian of Epicanthix descent to be the progenitor of a clone army. Millions of his template, to my knowledge, were created.” Leaning with both palms on the table, Mand’alor the Infernal let her wolf helm meet the eyes of the collected Moffs.

“Give me my father’s remaining clones and we shall compensate their cost with the potential for security and economic friendship.”

[member="Dante Calgar"] [member="The Major"] [member="Natasi Fortan"] [member="Keira Verd"] [member="Alkor Centaris"] [member="Cassiopeia Australis"]

 

[Natasi Fortan]

Natasi maintained her stoic expression in the face of Mand'alor's display. They were doing very little to dispel the notions Natasi harbored about them, and despite coming into the conference with an open mind, the meeting was only serving to confirm them. Unilaterally and without notice changing the meeting location, ignoring diplomatic protocols, and now this? Still, the Infernal was comparatively new to galactic politics, and in Natasi's experience, Mandalorians didn't usually speak to outsiders except by blasters. Perhaps all it would take would be to work the muscles a little more. It would be premature to end the talks now, not when they finally had a dialogue.

Closer to a monologue, Natasi corrected herself. Time to change that.

Natasi's eyebrows furrowed slightly at the Mandalorian leader's demands. "I'm sorry, Mand'alor; you seem to be laboring under some outdated or incorrect intelligence. The First Order was never interested in the clones of Preliat Mantis -- unfortunately, they were purchased by an overzealous then-junior officer seeking an advantage without the authorization of the First Order government. They were retained in the Auxiliary for the duration of Mantis' stay with the First Order so as to avoid them falling into the wrong hands -- and indeed, are there any right hands for that many clones to fall into? When he took his leave they were released from our custody. We have no knowledge of their whereabouts, nor do we maintain custody of them. The truth is that, despite the initially promising subject material and quantity advantages, after preliminary aptitude testing, it was determined that they were not of suitable quality for our armed forces then and time has not changed that fact."

The Grand Moff shrugged and showed her palms. "By all means recover them, we will not stand in your way. Better that they be in the hands of people who can control them, don't you think?"

 

[Keira Priest]

Spoiler

Tags haven't been working at all, so I apologize for the lack of response.

Taking a step forward, Keira lifted the rifle from its case, turning it over in her hands. After considering the weapon for a moment, she looked to the First Order delegation. "That depends on its specifications." Setting it down, she shrugged, crossing her arms across her chest. "My pistol can punch through beskar'gam. I'll stick with the ripper, all things considered." Like all of those that stood on the side of the Mandalorians, she was fiercely proud of her people. There were few that could outdo them in the way of weaponry, though many in galactic history had tried.

"I'm going to be frank in that neither of us gain anything from an alliance, we can agree on that, 'lek?" Her T-visor scanned those in attendance, gauging the mood of the room before she continued. "A non-aggression pact is another matter. My people can bring that and consistent employment as mercenaries to the table." It wasn't spoken as a request so much as a final ultimatum, but one that both she and the others on her side of the table were willing to be flexible with if and when times called.

Another glance to the rifle the Imperials had made an offering of, and she spoke again, "If you have more to offer than military technology. Assumptions are a dangerous thing." Her gaze rested on [member="Dante Calgar"] for a beat longer than necessary, at that comment.

[member="Natasi Fortan"] | [member="Natasi Fortan"] | [member="Alkor Centaris"] | [member="The Major"] | [member="Madelyn Lowe"] | [member="Cassiopeia Australis"]

 

[Yasha Cadera]

“Thank you, Keira.” [member="Keira Verd"] spoke her piece, puncturing decorum to the all hailed Mandalorian stand-off ground.

“Control an army of Clan Mantis? One does not control a Mantis. One points them in a direction and stands aside. If your officers could not handle my father’s clones, they were not seasoned enough officers. All that matters now is that I take my family home. Every single one who wishes it.” Inadequate. Her father’s genes has been not of suitable quality? Lucky still the First Order delegation did not see the Dark rise of violence on Yasha’s young face. The Wolf-Helm twitched.

Nothing about her father Preliat Mantis was inferior, aside from his nightmarish and traumatic past. Although she remained estranged from the man, Yasha considered herself the winner of a genetic jackpot where the Mantis genes were concerned.

Royal talents wasted on lesser orders.

“By your own admission, you have nothing left to garner my attention. After all, I wouldn’t want to press her Ladyship’s time with my underwhelming genome and inferior guns. I shall, however, offer a consolation of trade without tariff with my Empire and a standard rate of hire should you require soldiers worth their ilk… and I expect the recent unpleasantness on Atrisia will not damage my personal holdings upon the planet. It would be unfortunate if I had to step in and ensure the security of my House and all those within it. I may be Mandalorian, but the Noble seat I inherited from my mother still comes with responsibilities to those who belong to her House.” Standing to her feet, Yasha knew the action would pull the other Mandalorians from their positions.

“I expect should my duties require me access to Atrisia and Panatha, you would not deny me the pleasure of home… and I shall expect our engineers could enjoy a mutually beneficial collegiate environment. There is much to learn one from the other.”

[member="Natasi Fortan"] [member="Alkor Centaris"] [member="The Major"] [member="Madelyn Lowe"] [member="Cassiopeia Australis"] [member="Dante Calgar"]