Faction There Is No Slavery in Bai Sen | Assembly | [Refuge] Farworlds Alliance

[Voice of Hope]

There Is No Slavery in Bái Sēn

 

Relevant Links:
Farworlds Alliance • Refuge • Respite • Veridia

Spoiler: Previous Threads

Reverie and Respite
•
The First Assembly
•
Constructive Criticism
•
Future Wars
•
Cross and Banner
•
What Lies Beneath
•
The Gears of Industry

On the distant world of Veridia, the white-walled city of Bái Sēn prospers beneath the rule of a powerful warlord.

Its government insists that slavery does not exist.

Those taken into bondage are named criminals. Magistrates place seals upon their sentences, merchants record their sale as the lawful transfer of labor, and contracts pass from one estate to another beneath the protection of Veridian law.

Some sentences last a lifetime.

Others pass down to children who had no part in the original crime, though officials insist such cases are uncommon and rarely speak of them aloud. Far more visible are the raids—villages swept under the authority of stamped decrees, families taken and accused of theft, murder, or sedition without proof. Each arrest is backed by official seals, each chain and sale recorded as lawful. Under Daimyo Kuroda Renji—a calculating ruler known for his cold precision and rigid sense of order—these practices have become routine rather than rare.

Now, carrying altered contracts, the testimony of escaped laborers, and the seals of settlements prepared to defy their ruler, a masked shinobi named Zetsumie has traveled to the Farworlds Assembly.

He asks the Alliance for the strength to overthrow the man who has turned Veridia's laws against its people.

Beneath his appeal for liberation lies another purpose…



THE PETITION​

The doors of the Assembly chamber opened and Zetsumei No Tenshi entered alone.

Rainwater darkened the shoulders of his black traveling clothes. Mud and pale road dust marked the wrappings around his forearms, remnants of a world whose mountain roads had been shaped for carts and marching feet rather than speeders.

At the threshold, he surrendered the weapons visible upon his person: a narrow sword, several metal darts, and a knife concealed within the fold of his sash. Whether those were all the weapons he carried remained another matter entirely but they were given up with deliberate action with intensity behind the motions as if showing an almost ceremonial respect to the task.

He crossed the chamber beneath the regard of the assembled representatives, then lowered himself before the central table. From within his clothing, he produced a lacquered box and placed it upon the polished surface.

Twelve wooden seals rested inside. Several had been split through the center, and one carried a dark reddish brown stain around its carved edge.

"These belong to settlements willing to place their names beneath my request," Zetsumie said, his voice remained calm and oddly austere. He drew a soft breath and sighed before adding, "There were others."

He removed a folded sheet of rice paper from the box next. It was aged and had yellowed along its edges, while newer ink crowded the original script. Each addition bore the same vermilion seal.

The first sentence recorded upon it was seven years whilst twenty-three extensions followed.

"The woman named here stole grain during a winter famine. She completed her sentence eighteen years ago."

One gloved finger moved lower pointing out where in the script it changed.

"Her eldest son now works in her place. Her youngest daughter was transferred to another estate when the family failed to meet its assigned quota."

Another document followed. Then another, and another, and another.

Forged convictions followed by inherited debts, even entire households were classified as criminal dependents. Villages were ordered to provide laborers when their harvests failed to satisfy taxation.

Each cruelty carried the remnants of law, but distinctly lacked the spirit of justice.

Zetsumie allowed the Assembly to examine the evidence he laid out before them before he continued.

"Veridia possesses laws for criminals. The man ruling Bái Sēn has merely discovered that every hungry farmer, disobedient child, and inconvenient rival can be called one."

A small holoprojector was produced next as it emerged from a pocket hidden with in his robed garb.

The dim light formed the image of a mountainous province where pale forests crowded the lower valleys. Terraced fields clung to the hillsides beneath ancient fortresses, showcasing their sloping roofs interrupted by relay towers and weathered defense emplacements.

Three locations appeared in red dots along the image.

A labor compound followed by the central contract registry and finally... The warlord's fortress above the city of Bái Sēn.

" I am asking your alliance to help sever the hand holding these contracts."

His amber-golden gaze moved across the chamber, settling upon no single face for long as he studied these foreigners.

"I humbly beseech that you recognize the settlements seeking release. Please help us secure the records that prove what has been done, and Prevent the warlord from answering resistance by putting villages to the torch."

His hand settled beside the lacquered box.

"Give us the means to remove him…and Veridia may be free once more."

WAYS TO JOIN​

The Assembly must decide whether the Farworlds Alliance will answer Zetsumie's petition, what aid may be offered, and what conditions must accompany it.

Question him. Challenge the evidence. Volunteer assistance. Demand safeguards. Introduce conflicting intelligence or political concerns.

No character is required to support intervention.

Hear the Petition

Listen to the evidence, speak for your people, or decide whether Veridia's appeal falls beneath the Alliance's principles.

Question Zetsumie

Examine the contracts, challenge his account, request witnesses, or ask who truly benefits from the warlord's fall.

Offer Assistance

Volunteer ships, soldiers, investigators, relief workers, scouts, supplies, or support for a limited Veridian operation.

Demand Safeguards

Argue for civilian protections, local consent, outside observers, or measures preventing one tyrant from replacing another.

Thread Note: This is intended as a focused Assembly discussion leading into a separate Veridia liberation thread. Once participating characters have had an opportunity to respond to the petition, the Assembly will reach its decision. Faction members, witnesses, allies, opposition characters, ambassadors, and representatives interested in joining the Farworlds Alliance are welcome to participate. Known major villains, hostile war criminals, and openly antagonistic figures would not be permitted within the Assembly chamber. The thread DM, Voice of Hope , will portray and manage the general NPCs throughout the thread. Personally submitted NPCs are also permitted.

Join the Farworlds Alliance Discord

​

 

[Laphisto]

Laphisto sat in the chair offered to him with a small frown, his attention shifting between the petitioner and the contracts spread across the Assembly table. One document became the next, each carrying the same official seals that had transformed sentences into generations of bondage beneath the protection of Veridian law. He remained silent while the evidence was presented, allowing the chamber to absorb the weight of it before reaching any conclusions.

Truth be told, the Lilaste Order had intervened for far less. Had Veridia fallen under Diarchal jurisdiction during the height of the Diarchy, there would have been little debate over the matter. An investigation would have been ordered, the evidence verified, and if the accusations proved true, Laphisto and his soldiers would have been dispatched to arrest the governor of Veridia or whatever title their ruler claimed. From there, the courts would have taken their course, and execution would likely have followed. Those days, however, belonged to another era. Veridia answered to no greater authority, and neither the Farworlds Alliance nor the Lilaste Order possessed jurisdiction over its government. they were not a member world after all.

Reaching toward the console built into his station, Laphisto requested the floor. Once recognized, he rose without haste, one hand resting lightly against the table as his gaze settled upon the masked shinobi. "The Lilaste Order sympathizes with the people of Veridia From a military perspective, the evidence presented here is deeply troubling. We have intervened against governments for far less than what has been laid before this Assembly."

His eyes briefly swept across the gathered delegates before returning to Zetsumei. "But removing a government is rarely the difficult part If this Assembly or any coalition within it commits forces to overthrow your ruler, what prevents another from taking his place? History is filled with revolutions that replaced one tyrant with another. When a government collapses, it leaves behind a vacuum, and vacuums attract pirates, slavers, criminal syndicates, rival warlords, and foreign opportunists long before stability can take root."

His hands folded together in front of him. "Have the settlements supporting your petition already agreed upon what government will replace the current one? Is there a leader, a council, or some provisional authority that your people recognize? And if military intervention becomes necessary, are those same people willing to accept a temporary peacekeeping force while that government establishes itself and secures order? Removing a tyrant may liberate a people for a day. Building a government capable of protecting that freedom is what determines whether the next generation inherits peace... or another revolution."

Voice of Hope

 

[Xan Deesa]

REFUGE | ASSEMBLY
TAGS: Open
GEAR: In bio

THEME​

Xan wasn’t a politician, she never wanted to be one and she held no envy towards those who were. On a fundamental level, she hated governments and politics. It halted progress and it gave way to bureaucracy and, eventually, corruption.

She was willing to bet money that she would see more of the same with this assembly as she had in both the Alliance and the High Republic.

She wasn’t a politician, so she kept her distance from the action and reserved her opinions for herself. She listened to the story the man proposed. For her, it was an open and shut case. She could see what was happening on Veridia, she recognized the corruption all too quickly. But the rest of the assembly wouldn’t necessarily see it that way. Such was the nature of democracy. For good or bad, a case needed to be presented and agreed upon.

For Xan, it was as easy as planting a bomb and sending a space station into atmosphere to incinerate. No time wasted, nobody hurt aside from those that had it coming, just a simple flick of a switch and problems were solved.

But say it aloud and everyone called her a terrorist.

A voice spoke up. Technicolour eyes shifted to an old face she recognized from a different time, Laphisto was a name she hadn't heard in a long time. He was understandably concerned over what came after the hypothetical coup, though the cyborg still rolled her eyes in the privacy of her darkened corner in the back of the room. ”Just shoot ‘em and figure it out after. Sounding like a bunch of Jedi…” She grumbled to herself.

Perhaps she should pursue politics. What better planetary representative than an omnipresent engram on the Holonet?

 

[Lander Stalwart]

Refuge
Tags: Xan Deesa , Laphisto , Zetsumei No Tenshi

Lander's Blaster Pistol, Lander's Prosthetic Arm, Feeling Lucky, Refuge
​

"But removing a government is rarely the difficult part If this Assembly or any coalition within it commits forces to overthrow your ruler, what prevents another from taking his place? History is filled with revolutions that replaced one tyrant with another. When a government collapses, it leaves behind a vacuum, and vacuums attract pirates, slavers, criminal syndicates, rival warlords, and foreign opportunists long before stability can take root."

"We do have our Charter for a reason, High Commander," Lander chimed in, shifting forward in his seat. "If there can be an agreed upon succession of power, and they see fit to agree themselves to our Charter, than they are subject to the same scrutiny as the rest of us. Abuses of power against civilian populations is something that we all have agreed that we have a vested interest in. That, I believe, all but demands that we commit our resources to this effort. As loose as our territory may be, Veridia still lies within it. These hypotheticals are good to guide our hands, but we cannot know for sure until we are committed."

Lander was going to act in the best interest of people. That was his passion, his calling in life, so he was going to see this through. They had all, after all, decided that slavery was a blight when they came together. It made it a very easy decision for the representative of Refuge, though he was unsure of how exactly they would go about addressing such an issue.

"Notably, I should remind us all of the power imbalance between ourselves and Veridia," he noted. "If we cannot reach an agreement for a peaceful transition of power, which I heavily doubt given that conflict is already ongoing, we need to be certain that we minimize civilian casualties upon any hypothetical engagement. Let the common folk not be put to the sword and all. While we certainly have the means of sending a large force and swiftly acting, perhaps an alternative method of waging war is required."

What that looked like, he wasn't sure. What he did know, however, is that they weren't going to sit idle. Repeat the mistakes of fallen civilizations.

Perhaps that meant getting their hands dirty.

 

[A'Runda]

​

Location: Refuge
Tags: Zetsumei No Tenshi | Laphisto | Xan Deesa | Lander Stalwart

The Tusken was far from home as he put his duties as a warden of the sky on hiatus for the Far World’s project. Gathered with others in the assembly he watched. Listening to the mystery man’s pleas. Veridia was not a world that A’Runda was familiar with. He learned recently of its proximity to where the Alliance was coming together.

The man had not even properly introduced himself yet either. Skipping any pleasantries and getting straight to the matter at hand was something he could respect. But at the same time it could also make them come off as rather pushy, even possibly entitled to the Alliance's aid.

What they shared did concern A’Runda however, detailing how their authorities allowed the institution of slavery to adapt and change to ensure its survival. “If the Alliance wants to have its authority respected and recognized now and in the future then I believe action will be necessary.” For a fledgling nation state it was important that authority was recognized. The nomad had been around enough to know that power and politics were not evil inherently, even if it could feel as if it were at times. “But to add to Laphisto's concerns even if a vacuum and bloody crisis of succession was avoided, efforts will still need to be made to make sure that slavery on Verida doesn’t reinvent itself once more. What is being described by our guest here suggests that breaking chains won’t be enough. An entire reformation of the criminal justice system is in order since that’s how it’s being propped up by the authorities of Bai Sen.” A’Runda explained.

Just as slavery itself needed to be maintained on Verida the process to destroy it and keep it that away also would require maintenance. Power in politics was never static, either one side is acting or being acted upon.

“Emancipation for Bai Sen will likely not be of much benefit to those with influence. While such people will have no sympathy from me, they can’t be injured and will likely do whatever they can to undermine any abolitionist efforts we enforce.” The Tusken did not believe that this was going to be an easy endeavor. But anything worth doing was never easy. He didn’t want to seem like he was trying to dissuade anyone here form doing the right thing, only to promote a cautious and mindful approach.

A'Runda attention moved towards the guest. "Forgive me for being presumptuous, Sir. But I doubt that you are just a courier of facts and evidence. Do you represent anyone beyond the concerned citizenry of Bai Sen?"​

 

[Shuklaar Kyrdol]

​

Friendly Units: None at the moment.
Units in Reserve:

• SB-01 Darasuum Morut-class Super-heavy Battlecarrier Darasuum Morut (in orbit)
• Vornskr Mirshir-Jurkad Rammikade company Kyramud (waiting with the gunship, on stand by)

Tag(s): Laphisto | Xan Deesa | Lander Stalwart | A'Runda

Equipment

Armor Implant(s) Equipment Melee Sidearm(s) Rifle(s) Explosives

• 
  
  • Jurkad'gam
  • Equipment Mount: Ysalamiri Birikad.
  • Back Weapon Mount:
    • Left:
      • A-03S Verpine Shatter Autocannon
        • GVSR-SA Guided APFSDS Magazine (1)
        • GVSR-HEIAPA Guided HEIAP Magazine (1 loaded)
        • GVSR-FA Guided Flechette Magazine (1)
    • Right:
      • MML-02SM Miniaturized Missile Launcher
        • Tracyn'vhipir-class Brilliant Plasma Missile (8)
        • Striilir'ika-M-class Brilliant Micro-missile (Baradium) (0)
  • Right Gauntlet and Vambrace: 'Verd b' Marev' Gauntlet and Vambrace
    
    • Weapon Mounts:
      
      • Left:
        
        • CP-03V CryoBan Projector
      • Top:
        
        • PC-05V Plasma Caster
          • Plasma Gas Medium Cannister (1)
      • Right:
        
        • TBP-01V Tractor-Pressor Beam Projector
  • Left Gauntlet and Vambrace: 'Verd b' Surhaai' Gauntlet and Vambrace
    
    • Weapon Mounts:
      • Left:
        • NML-02VTB Nano missile Launcher
      • Top:
        • METL-02V Micro Energy Torpedo Launcher
      • Right:
        
        • MML-01V Miniaturized Missile Launcher
          • Tracyn'vhipir-class Brilliant Plasma Missile (4)
          • Striilir'ika-M-class Brilliant Micro-missile (Baradium) (0)
  • Utility Belt Loadout:
    
    • Hardcase Spring-loaded Ammunition Pouches
    • Hardcase Spring-loaded Grenade Pouches
    • Hardcase Large Satchel
    • Softcase Large Storage Pouches (dump pouch)
    • Magnetic Clamp
  • Load-bearing Rig Loadout:
    
    • Hardcase Spring-loaded Ammunition Pouches
    • Hardcase Spring-loaded Grenade Pouches
    • Central Secondary High Capacity Rylith Power Cell
    • Medium and Large Gription Panels
  • Holster and Scabbard Setup:
    
    • 1x chest-rig mounted knife scabbard
    • 2x belt-mounted knife scabbard
    • 1x thigh mounted (dominant hand side) holster
• 
  
  • 'Agol'ja'had'-R Medical Implant System
  • 'Ori'aal'briik' Nervous System Enhancer
  • 'Nejah Oya'karur' Full-spectrum Immunity Booster
  • 'Agol'gam' Muscle and Bone Enhancement
  • 'Gar Tkiriyr' Neural Interface
• 
  
  • 'Shushai Rugam' Sensor Sphere (2)
• 
  
  • K-04 Skirata Ehn-ky'kal Kal (2)
  • Kot'hokaan
• 
  
  • DP-02 Class-D Heavy Disruptor Pistol
    
    • 'Kyrayc Sur'haai'-M 1-4x Short Range Optic
    • 'Drala Sur'haai' Targeting Laser/Illuminator
    • Ammunition:
      
      • 10-round gas cartridge-power cell combined unit (1 loaded, 2 spare)
• 
  
  • MCDC-01 Man-portable Class-D Disruptor Cannon
    
    • 'Kyrayc Sur'haai'-M 1-12x Medium Range Optic
    • 'Drala Sur'haai' Targeting Laser/Illuminator
    • Vibrosaw Bayonet
• 
  
  • BG-02 Baradium Grenade (6)​
  • SJG-02 Signal Jammer Grenade (2)​
  • NGG-02 Nagnol Gas Grenade (2)​
  • AWCGG-02 Anti-Energy Weapon Countermeasure Gas Grenade (2)​

[/slide]

Slavery was an abhorrent practice that once stained the history of the Mandalorians. Indentured servitude was slavery. Shuklaar carefully listened to this man and the other arguments presented. Everyone was more or less on the same page. Shuklaar didn't trust this newcomer, not one bit. His HUD told him there was no reason not to, but for some reason the man seemed...off. A warrior in a politician's world. So was he, yet in this man's case there didn't even seem to be any real unease. Perhaps he too had been doing this a while? Lying to himself that is. Either way, Shuklaar was far from comforted by the implications.

The charter was naturally clear on the matter, as had already been stated by both Lander and A'Runda. Shuklaar was grateful for his neural interface, he could 'perceive' the data coming in from his beksar'gam even without his buy'ce on. He always missed the privacy of it, but it wasn't the most conducive for meetings with aruetii. He took a breath as he considered what was said thus far and what to say in response. "Let us not be hasty. Prisoners first, then we should see about the government. The truly dangerous criminals must remain in custody, only those truly undeserving of such a fate can be responsibly set free. That will take time."

"I suggest we don't wait for the government to cooperate, but as much as I cannot believe I'm about to say this, force must not be our first option. However, if they're eager to walk into our guns, I'm going to deny our troops the chance to stretch their legs. My troops are both eager and ready," he added. He was not sure about Veridian force composition and no estimated table of organization and equipment had been drawn up, but sitting idly was going to chance none of that. Careful reconnaissance might change that. "Reconnaissance might be the order of the day, see what we're dealing with."

There was no point in prolonging these people's struggle's by waiting for the wheels of local bureaucracy to turn, but there was no point in collapsing their government before a suitable replacement could even be arranged. There was of course the matter of if their government would even resist. If they were smart, they would realize that to do so would be suicide, if they weren't, then this was going to be a short campaign. He didn't believe the Veridians even had much that could penetrate their armor, let alone hurt them.

"Do we know what the chances are that the government won't acquiesce to our request, however foolish that might be?" asked Shuklaar to the others, though he watched the Veridian carefully out of the corner of his eye to see what he would say. He was no one's attack dog, credits had to be exchanged and a contract signed first. He doubted this Veridian could afford him even if that were his intention. One thing he knew for sure, they couldn't allow this to stand. How they went about disassembling this system, that was the question they needed answered.

 

[Zetsumei No Tenshi]

Laphisto Shuklaar Kyrdol Lander Stalwart A'Runda Xan Deesa

Zetsumie listened carefully as each member of the Assembly answered his petition. Golden-amber eyes shifted from speaker to speaker, taking quiet note of their questions and concerns.

“There is one other warlord, seated at Gyokuen, who styles himself Shōgun of Veridia. His rule reaches only across the Jade Garden, the trade roads feeding it, and those estates sworn beneath his banner. Those beneath him pay tribute, answer his levies, and submit to his magistrates. They are burdened by his rule, but they are not bought and sold beneath the pretense of lawful sentence.”

His hand rested beside the lacquered box.

“Twelve settlements have formally placed their seals upon this petition. Six others support it in silence, unwilling to expose their people to retaliation, infiltration, or collective punishment before the Alliance has given its answer. My own village stands with them, making nineteen in total.”

Zetsumie’s masked visage turned slightly toward the darkened edge of the chamber, his attention settling upon Xan Deesa . The motion was slight, though it made clear that her quiet grumble had not escaped him.

An unseen grin spread beneath the mask, betrayed only by the subtle shift in his voice when he spoke up again.

“I could shoot him… poison his tea… place a blade beneath his ribs while he sleeps… or arrange for him to fall from the walls of Bái Sēn.”

One finger settled upon the oldest of the contracts laid out atop the table.

“Then his magistrates would burn these records. His captains would divide the labor camps between themselves. The Shōgun at Gyokuen would march beneath the pretense of restoring order, and every village that aided me would be named an accomplice to murder.”

His fingertip remained against the yellowed paper pressing down upon it.

“Killing a man is a simple task.... Killing the authority that survives him is considerably more troublesome.”

Zetsumie drew one wooden seal from the box and placed it apart from the others.

“I am but the messenger of our tragic tale, chosen to carry this request before you at the behest of Kaze Tatsuo, the Elder of my village…and to return with whatever answer your Alliance deems fit to give.”

He offered no name for that village, nor any indication of what might lie beyond its weathered roofs and ordinary fields.

“Kaze has earned the trust of the settlements represented here. Should the warlord’s authority collapse, their leaders are prepared to recognize him as the voice of a provisional council until they may gather openly and appoint their own representatives.”

His gloved hand moved across the collected seals.

“He does not wish claim the warlord’s seat, nor authority over Gyokuen or any settlement that has not chosen him. His purpose is to preserve the contract registry, oversee the release of those held beneath unlawful sentences under the Shogun of Bái Sēn, protect the labor camps from seizure, and prevent another ruler from inheriting Bái Sēn before its people can speak for themselves.”

Zetsumie reached into the folds of his garments and withdrew a narrow data cylinder. He set it down on the table beside the contracts with a muted tap.

“I have brought the results of our reconnaissance, along with the intelligence upon which Kaze Tatsuo has prepared his plans.”

The cylinder contained patrol routes, guard rotations, supply movements, prison manifests, and what little could be learned of the warlord’s defenses without exposing those already operating beneath his notice.

“The representatives of the nineteen settlements have also prepared an offering in exchange for the Alliance’s assistance: three hundred koku of polished white rice, forty cedar casks of sake, sixty bolts of Veridian silk, twenty-four chests of medicinal herbs and prepared remedies, and twenty thousand Veridian mon gathered from their common treasuries.”

The sum would have seemed modest beside the wealth of an interstellar government. Upon Veridia, it represented winter stores, fine wedding cloths, medicine held against lean seasons, and coins saved one handful at a time.

“They will provide guides, safe houses, river passage, hidden roads, and whatever provisions may be sacrificed and moved without drawing the attention of Bái Sēn’s magistrates.

It may not resemble much by the measure of those who can cross the stars... But it is what our people possess…and they would rather purchase their freedom through honest sacrifice than receive it as charity.... When this matter is concluded, and the people of Bái Sēn are free to name their representatives, Kaze Tatsuo wishes to place his seal upon the Alliance Charter on behalf of the Free Settlements of Bái Sēn.”

His gaze passed over the chamber once more with a cautious glance.

“But the transition must be public.... The records must be secured before they can be destroyed. The warlord’s crimes must be placed before the people, his authority rejected, and the provisional council recognized before Gyokuen can claim that Bái Sēn has fallen into chaos.

Requests and petitions have been made before, and every investigator sent to examine the contracts or labor camps has disappeared. As far as the magistrates and the Shōgun are concerned, there is no slavery in Bái Sēn, only criminals serving lawful sentences, which means they have no reason to cooperate and every reason to conceal the truth."

 

[Laphisto]

Laphisto raised a brow as another representative addressed him directly, giving a small shake of his head before answering. His attention moved across the Assembly chamber, lingering briefly on the delegates who had already spoken before returning to the petitioner. The lacquered box, the scattered contracts, and the data cylinder remained where Zetsumei had placed them, a reminder that the discussion had already moved beyond whether something had to be done. The question before them now was how. "And yet, the Charter only applies to member worlds."

His voice carried evenly through the chamber. a soft sigh escaping his lips as he shakes his head "As it stands, we would be doing nothing more than assisting a foreign world with an internal conflict. The Lilaste Order has no issue committing military forces should the situation warrant it, but from the perspective of this Assembly, I question what authority we truly possess. We may provide humanitarian aid, advisors, equipment, and even soldiers, but Veridia has never agreed to abide by our Charter. Unless we intend to enforce those laws through military occupation, the Alliance has no legal means of compelling compliance from a government that has never recognized our authority."

Laphisto shifted his attention toward A'Runda and Shuklaar Kyrdol as each offered their thoughts. He gave a slight nod in acknowledgment before returning his gaze to Zetsumei. "If experience has taught me anything, it is that this government will not cooperate. Every investigator sent before us has disappeared. Every accusation has been buried beneath procedure while those responsible continue their work uninterrupted. I see little reason to believe they will suddenly open their archives and surrender their records because we ask politely. From a military standpoint, delay favors the defender. Every hour they are given is another hour to destroy evidence, relocate prisoners, fortify positions, and prepare for resistance. If military intervention becomes necessary, then it must be decisive."

leaning forward somewhat, Laphsito rested his hands against his chin. "My recommendation would be a rapid planetary assault aimed at the seat of power. Secure Bái Sēn before its leadership has the opportunity to react. Capture the contract registry and every government archive before they can be burned. Arrest the warlord, his magistrates, and every official responsible for maintaining this system. Once the chain of command has been severed, resistance becomes fragmented, and the civilian population is spared the cost of a prolonged campaign. A swift operation will result in far less bloodshed than months of indecision.There is, however, another concern."

He gestured lightly toward the petitioner. "You stated that, once this conflict has concluded, Kaze Tatsuo intends to place his seal upon the Alliance Charter on behalf of the Free Settlements of Bái Sēn. Not Veridia. What of the rest of the planet? The settlements that have remained neutral. The territories beneath the Shōgun at Gyokuen. Those who have pledged themselves to neither your cause nor your provisional council. If Alliance forces remove the Daimyo and recognize Kaze's provisional government, will those regions acknowledge his authority? Or will they simply view him as another warlord whose claim is supported by an off-world military?"

Laphisto tilted his head to the side briefly and raised a brow, the force flooding over his vision before he sent a short pulse out towards the man before him, trying to use truth sense to read his words for any lies that may be spoken. "From a military perspective, that distinction determines the campaign before it ever begins. There is a considerable difference between liberating nineteen settlements and pacifying an entire world. If only the Free Settlements intend to recognize the Charter, then we must ask whether we are preparing to assist a liberation... or whether we are about to involve ourselves in the opening stages of a planetary civil war."

Zetsumei No Tenshi

 

[Lander Stalwart]

Refuge
Tags: Laphisto , Shuklaar Kyrdol , Xan Deesa , A'Runda , Zetsumei No Tenshi

Lander's Blaster Pistol, Lander's Prosthetic Arm, Feeling Lucky, Refuge
​

"From a military perspective, that distinction determines the campaign before it ever begins. There is a considerable difference between liberating nineteen settlements and pacifying an entire world. If only the Free Settlements intend to recognize the Charter, then we must ask whether we are preparing to assist a liberation... or whether we are about to involve ourselves in the opening stages of a planetary civil war."

"From where I stand, that is a risk we will have to take," Lander stated. "All of us have agreed to the standards of all sentient beings. It is something that has brought us into this alliance. If a planetary civil war is what we get wrapped up in than so be it. We did not brave the hellscape of Dromund Kaas and fear retaliation."

Lander paused before speaking again.

"I have to agree with Shuklaar, though," he noted. "Recon to assess the situation, then use what information we gather to perform the assault. Much as it would be wise to strike quickly when it is time, we need to know what we're dealing with. Other than this point, that is my peace on the matter."

Now all that was left to do was hear everyone else out and vote on an action.

 

[Xan Deesa]

REFUGE | ASSEMBLY
TAGS: Laphisto | Lander Stalwart | A'Runda | Shuklaar Kyrdol | Zetsumei No Tenshi
GEAR: In bio

THEME​

Xan idly watched and listened as each member voiced their thoughts on the matter, though the neon Demon’s eyes narrowed as the Veridian speaker looked directly at her. She glared at him with a mixture of curiosity and skepticism.

Due to its backwater nature, finding any information on the speaker or anyone else was tricky for her. What was his deal?

She reluctantly turned her attention back to the rest of the assembly. They all seemed to be in agreement that something needed to be done, though the logistics around it was admittedly problematic. At what point would it simply be an invasion of Veridia and not an attempt to help?

She idly formulated her own plans and suggestions. Depending on what the Assembly decided, she could always speak to Braze or Jasper to make something happen. For now, however, she kept to herself and returned her gaze to the Veridian speaker. He seemed to be telling the truth, but she was beginning to doubt his involvement in the whole situation.

She decided to test a theory.

”You’re lying.” She spoke to herself like she had before. Her technicolour eyes zoomed in on him to watch the speaker carefully.

 

[Shuklaar Kyrdol]

​

Friendly Units: None at the moment.
Units in Reserve:

• SB-01 Darasuum Morut-class Super-heavy Battlecarrier Darasuum Morut (in orbit)
• Vornskr Mirshir-Jurkad Rammikade company Kyramud (waiting with the gunship, on stand by)

Tag(s): Laphisto | Xan Deesa | Lander Stalwart | A'Runda | Zetsumei No Tenshi

Equipment

Armor Implant(s) Equipment Melee Sidearm(s) Rifle(s) Explosives

• 
  
  • Jurkad'gam
  • Equipment Mount: Ysalamiri Birikad.
  • Back Weapon Mount:
    • Left:
      • A-03S Verpine Shatter Autocannon
        • GVSR-SA Guided APFSDS Magazine (1)
        • GVSR-HEIAPA Guided HEIAP Magazine (1 loaded)
        • GVSR-FA Guided Flechette Magazine (1)
    • Right:
      • MML-02SM Miniaturized Missile Launcher
        • Tracyn'vhipir-class Brilliant Plasma Missile (8)
        • Striilir'ika-M-class Brilliant Micro-missile (Baradium) (0)
  • Right Gauntlet and Vambrace: 'Verd b' Marev' Gauntlet and Vambrace
    
    • Weapon Mounts:
      
      • Left:
        
        • CP-03V CryoBan Projector
      • Top:
        
        • PC-05V Plasma Caster
          • Plasma Gas Medium Cannister (1)
      • Right:
        
        • TBP-01V Tractor-Pressor Beam Projector
  • Left Gauntlet and Vambrace: 'Verd b' Surhaai' Gauntlet and Vambrace
    
    • Weapon Mounts:
      • Left:
        • NML-02VTB Nano missile Launcher
      • Top:
        • METL-02V Micro Energy Torpedo Launcher
      • Right:
        
        • MML-01V Miniaturized Missile Launcher
          • Tracyn'vhipir-class Brilliant Plasma Missile (4)
          • Striilir'ika-M-class Brilliant Micro-missile (Baradium) (0)
  • Utility Belt Loadout:
    
    • Hardcase Spring-loaded Ammunition Pouches
    • Hardcase Spring-loaded Grenade Pouches
    • Hardcase Large Satchel
    • Softcase Large Storage Pouches (dump pouch)
    • Magnetic Clamp
  • Load-bearing Rig Loadout:
    
    • Hardcase Spring-loaded Ammunition Pouches
    • Hardcase Spring-loaded Grenade Pouches
    • Central Secondary High Capacity Rylith Power Cell
    • Medium and Large Gription Panels
  • Holster and Scabbard Setup:
    
    • 1x chest-rig mounted knife scabbard
    • 2x belt-mounted knife scabbard
    • 1x thigh mounted (dominant hand side) holster
• 
  
  • 'Agol'ja'had'-R Medical Implant System
  • 'Ori'aal'briik' Nervous System Enhancer
  • 'Nejah Oya'karur' Full-spectrum Immunity Booster
  • 'Agol'gam' Muscle and Bone Enhancement
  • 'Gar Tkiriyr' Neural Interface
• 
  
  • 'Shushai Rugam' Sensor Sphere (2)
• 
  
  • K-04 Skirata Ehn-ky'kal Kal (2)
  • Kot'hokaan
• 
  
  • DP-02 Class-D Heavy Disruptor Pistol
    
    • 'Kyrayc Sur'haai'-M 1-4x Short Range Optic
    • 'Drala Sur'haai' Targeting Laser/Illuminator
    • Ammunition:
      
      • 10-round gas cartridge-power cell combined unit (1 loaded, 2 spare)
• 
  
  • MCDC-01 Man-portable Class-D Disruptor Cannon
    
    • 'Kyrayc Sur'haai'-M 1-12x Medium Range Optic
    • 'Drala Sur'haai' Targeting Laser/Illuminator
    • Vibrosaw Bayonet
• 
  
  • BG-02 Baradium Grenade (6)​
  • SJG-02 Signal Jammer Grenade (2)​
  • NGG-02 Nagnol Gas Grenade (2)​
  • AWCGG-02 Anti-Energy Weapon Countermeasure Gas Grenade (2)​

[/slide]

Shuklaar listened to the points raised, his patience for this sort of osk was wearing thinner and thinner by the moment. A that was when some words caught his attention. Someone else's suspicions were in the same vein as his it would seem. Hardly a comforting realization, but one that needed to be confronted nonetheless.

”You’re lying.” She spoke to herself like she had before. Her technicolour eyes zoomed in on him to watch the speaker carefully.

'Trust, but verify,' was what some wise aruetii had told him a while ago. He agreed with the sentiment wholeheartedly. None of them knew this man, and none of them knew the veracity of his claims. "It is my suggestion that we first very the certainty of these claims before we make any decisions regarding the government. I suggest we secure the records, free those who are worthy of being freed, and worry about the government later."

"As was wisely pointed out, a power struggle is hardly the outcome any of us were hoping for, nor is it out problem," added Shuklaar. "No, this world is not a signatory of the charter yet, but to ignore slavery under our own nose is to advertise the fact that we are weak." Shuklaar let his words sit for a moment before he added, "If we cannot enforce our own laws in our background, then what the haran did we sign the charter for? Nice words on a document that we refuse to live by?"

"As for your, stranger, if you are lying..." started Shuklaar, trailing off. "You're going to receive a first hand demonstration of how modern detection, targeting and tracking technologies care not for your ways." Shuklaar's armor stored a precise lifeform scan as well as a EMS signature of the man, not to mention his precise signature in the force. There was nowhere he could run, nowhere he could hide, if manipulation and lies were his goal. Sguklaar had no time nor patience for either.

"That is my suggestion," said Shuklaar, tone implying it was less suggestion and more directive. It was not his intention to force a decision upon the council, but debating was not going to help anyone, let alone the prisoners themselves. He could see no reason why swift action was not the order of the day.

 

[Zetsumei No Tenshi]

Shuklaar Kyrdol | Xan Deesa | Laphisto | Lander Stalwart | A'Runda

Zetsumie's attention settled upon Shuklaar with a stillness that held nothing of his previous calm within it.

"Those worthy of being freed…" He repeated the words slowly, as though the words alone were made of poison. "By whose measure?"

His hand moved toward the scattered contracts, one gloved finger pressing against the vermilion seal that had condemned a woman's children to inherit her sentence.

"The magistrates of Bái Sēn also speak of worthiness. They decide which hungry farmer is worthy of mercy, which frightened child is worthy of innocence, and which family may be named criminal until every useful hand among them has died beneath another man's authority."

His gaze hardened behind the leather of his half-mask, a low scoff passing through his nose at the sentiment.

"You speak their language more fluently than you know, Mandalorian…"

Zetsumie began drawing the nearest documents back toward the lacquered box, handling them with a roughness that had not been present when he first laid them before the Assembly. He lifted one of the broken settlement seals, holding it aloft up to the light looking it over, as he regarded the dark stain that had long since dried into its grain.

"One among you calls me a liar. Another takes my measure as though I were already quarry and tells me there is nowhere I might hide from him. I surrendered my weapons at your threshold. I placed the names of the dead before you. I told you where the prisoners are held, where the records are kept, and where the man responsible may be found."

He returned the seal to the lacquered box among the others, its edge striking the wood with a quiet tap.

"In return, I am examined as a criminal, threatened as an enemy, and now told that only those you deem worthy may be released. It would seem this Alliance is eager to prove that it possesses the strength to find one old messenger. I had hoped that strength might instead be turned toward the men buying children beneath lawful seals."

Zetsumie's fingers tightened around the records he had carried so far, their edges worn by travel and hurried concealment. Weariness sat heavily upon him, though he refused to allow his shoulders to bow beneath it. The lone Veridian had been stricken with grief, exhaustion, and humiliation; together, they had whittled his patience down beyond its breaking point.

"It would seem you are more concerned with shielding yourselves from some perceived embarrassment than protecting the people who have come asking for your help."

His gaze settled upon those who had threatened and accused him, molten gold orbs rendered strangely cold beneath the weight of what little remained of his restraint.

"Dismiss me as a liar if it pleases you. Question every word I have spoken. Tear apart these records, test every seal, and send your own agents to crawl through every ledger in Bái Sēn. I welcome the scrutiny. What I will not accept is cowardice dressed as caution."

He grasped the worn documents, raised them before the Assembly, and cast them down upon the table with enough force to scatter their frayed edges across its polished surface.

"I am here because my people are suffering. I've crossed guarded roads and hostile ground to place this evidence before you. Others carried fragments of it farther than I could have managed alone. Some were captured, while others died with the hope that their sacrifice might reach this chamber and mean something."

His voice lowered, roughened by anger held too long behind discipline.

"I remember their names, their faces, and the cries of those who entrusted this burden to me. I will not allow their deaths to be diminished because those seated safely, far from their suffering, find the truth inconvenient."

A slow breath passed through him, his chest rising visibly beneath the worn, blackened gi. The strain of the journey remained upon him in the dust caught within its folds, the weathering of its hems, and the stiffness with which the old Veridian held himself upright before them.

"I am but a messenger, entrusted to bring their plea for aid before this Assembly. Yet I am not so feeble with age that I cannot recognize a threat, nor so foolish that I would mistake suspicion for wisdom. You speak as though I came here seeking power, conquest, or reward. I came carrying the testimony of people who may be punished merely because I escaped far enough to speak for them."

His fingers tightened against the edge of the lacquered box before releasing it and sliding it across the table, as though the sight of the burden had become something he could no longer bear to keep close.

"It is not my place to burden them with my doubts. I carried their hopes because they entrusted them to me, though I warned them those hopes were misplaced. I told them foreigners would offer questions where compassion was needed, suspicion where courage was asked, and threats to the messenger while our people remained in chains."

His mouth tightened beneath the mask as a bitter sentiment bled free from his voice.

"Outlanders have never cared for us unless our suffering could purchase them something."

His attention moved across the Assembly, raven-black brows drawing together as he studied those seated beneath the Alliance's banners.

"I know that some among you intend to help. I have heard your calls for scouts, intervention, and the protection of civilians. I have not mistaken caution for refusal."

A strained breath passed through the mask. Zetsumie closed his eyes briefly, as though trying to gather strength from the depths of a well that had long since gone dry.

"I will not withdraw the petition. My pride is worth less than the lives depending upon it. I will endure your suspicion, your examinations, and whatever indignities you decide are necessary, because I have already buried too many who believed reaching this chamber would matter, despite my own judgment of outlanders.

"Trust works both ways. It would be ill-advised to mistake my endurance for trust."

When his eyes opened, they settled once more upon Shuklaar.

"If your first concern upon hearing that people are enslaved is deciding which among them deserve freedom, then perhaps I have not traveled nearly far enough from Bái Sēn.

While you debate whether I have earned the privilege of being believed, those who sent me remain beneath the hands of the people they fear. Every hour spent threatening the messenger is another hour granted to those who may destroy evidence, silence witnesses, and tighten their hold."

His chin lifted, his head tilting slightly as golden eyes glinted beneath the chamber lights.

"I will not beg you to possess the courage your banners already lay claim. I will not grovel before those who answer suffering with threats. Investigate me if you must, or follow me if you dare. Embark upon your wild hunt to vilify the messenger and try to prove every word false."

Whatever remained of his austere courtesy faded from his voice, leaving bitterness in its place.

"But if you refuse to act, or simply lack the power to make a difference, then say so plainly. Do not hide your fear behind procedure and name it prudence."

Zetsumie reached for the leather half-mask and pulled it from his face. Beneath it, several fresh cuts and scrapes crossed his features, their edges scabbed over but scarcely healed. The wounds were neither displayed nor explained; he simply ceased concealing them.

A sharp snap of his wrist sent a long wooden-and-glass pipe sliding from a hidden pouch within his gi. He unfolded a small paper packet and poured shredded, dried leaves into the bowl held between the claws of a finely carved dragon. Another snap of his fingers summoned a brief spark of flame at their tips.

He drew deeply upon the pipe's narrow stem, seemingly finished with the effort of maintaining a wholly honorable and courteous demeanor. Instead, he indulged openly in his vice, exhaling a dense plume of lavender-gray smoke across the space before him.

"Say that your Alliance heard the plea of the oppressed and found the discomfort of helping them too great. Say that your promises end where risk begins."

He drew upon the pipe once more, allowing the silence to gather before releasing another slow breath of smoke.

"I will carry that answer back to those who believed this Alliance might care… provided they are still alive to hear it."

With that, Zetsumie turned from the Assembly and departed the chamber, leaving them to weigh their suspicions against the lives still hanging upon their decision.

 

[A'Runda]

​

Location: Refuge
Tags: Zetsumei No Tenshi | Laphisto | Xan Deesa | Lander Stalwart

A’Runda continued to listen to the guest after more was said from the others that made up the assembly. The Veridian native was certainly spirited in the way they addressed the group, perhaps even mouthy or theatrical. However, the way he expressed his suspicions and doubts did speak to the Tusken warden. He had seen his own homeworld passed around between varying spheres of influence time and time again. Appropriated and neglected in equal measure.

Eyes narrowed from behind his goggles as they parted the mask from their face and drew a pipe to smoke from. It seems that the citizenry of Beridia and Bai Sen couldn’t have chosen a less shady individual as their emissary. A noble cause being promoted by ignoble people. When they left the chamber A’Runda wasn’t sure if that was it or not.

"From where I stand, that is a risk we will have to take," Lander stated. "All of us have agreed to the standards of all sentient beings. It is something that has brought us into this alliance. If a planetary civil war is what we get wrapped up in than so be it. We did not brave the hellscape of Dromund Kaas and fear retaliation."

“I second what Lander had brought up. Many within this alliance have already acted more bold and brash against foes across the galaxy.” It was a conflict that A’Runda himself had unfortunately not partaken in himself. His goggled gaze moved through those in the room. “However, a raid to free slaves and sabotage infrastructure is not the same as overhauling an entire institution. The objectives are a bit different. But here we have something that’s much closer to a homefield advantage.”

Letting out a sigh the Tusken continued.

“I would vote on taking action. But the shock and awe displayed on Dormond Kaas would likely be inappropriate."​

 

[Kole Silco]

Kole Silco, the man at the edge of the chamber in dusty leathers, felt a familiar tug on the bottom of his jacket. It was his king. The King of Vilaserria-12 using his clawed hand to try and get the Jedi Knight’s attention. Kole kneeled to whisper to the smaller being next to him.

“You wanna’ help ‘em. Don’tcha?” Kole asked.

The chittering answer of the small insectoid king came back hushed but unable to mute the many clicks and clacks emblematic of the Vilaserrian language.

“Well you could do what you came here for. One of us could sign the charter, and we could have a seat and a say. Though it might be a little late for that.”

More chittering.

“That’s also an option. You have my blade and I will put it to the task you set me to. If they tell him no, I’ll help him personally. That way, you can still sign the charter.”

Another chitter as the smaller being tapped the Jedi on the back affectionately.

Kole Silco couldn’t say that Zetsumei’s words didn’t hit him right in the soft spot. He also couldn’t say some of the Farworlds folks didn’t rub him the wrong way, no matter how much of a point they had. That was because for Kole it was a simple choice. If a man asks for help, you help him. The Vilaserrians understood that and that was why he was their Watchman and so much more. He looked down at the simple king, Zikxit’Nikk the Younger, and smiled before returning the affectionate tap on the back.

Tags: Zetsumei No Tenshi A'Runda Shuklaar Kyrdol Lander Stalwart Xan Deesa Laphisto
​

 

[Laphisto]

Laphisto rested one hand against the edge of the table before pressing the console requesting recognition. A soft tone acknowledged the request, and he rose without haste. His eyes swept across the chamber, lingering for a moment on each representative who had contributed to the debate before finally settling upon the empty doorway through which the Veridian had departed.

"I believe we have reached the point where repeating our positions serves little purpose We have questioned the evidence. We have debated jurisdiction. We have examined the consequences of intervention, the dangers of inaction, and the political realities that would follow the removal of Veridia's current government. Those discussions were necessary. They should have been had. But this Assembly was not established to become another forum where suffering is examined indefinitely. to become stuck in a stagnant pool of debate like the Galactic Republic and its senators I therefore move that this Assembly conclude discussion and proceed to a vote."

laphisto pushed his arms behind his back and glanced out towards the other representatives of the alliance before continueing. "The proposal before us is simple. Authorize a reconnaissance operation to verify the intelligence presented. If that intelligence confirms what has been brought before us, authorize military intervention to secure the contract registry, liberate those unlawfully imprisoned, arrest those responsible, and stabilize the region until a provisional authority can assume control. The Lilaste Order has stood against slavery since its founding. That position is not subject to debate."

"If this Assembly votes to intervene, Lilaste soldiers will gladly serve beneath the Alliance banner alongside every member willing to commit forces." His gaze drifted around the chamber, meeting each representative in turn before returning to the center of the table. "But if this Assembly ultimately decides not to act, that decision applies only to the Alliance. It does not determine the sovereign decisions of its members."

He rested both hands upon the table, his posture unchanged. "The Lilaste Order did not surrender its sovereignty when it signed the Charter, nor would I expect any nation represented here to have done the same. Should this motion fail, we will review the petition under Lilaste law and our own military doctrine, just as any of your governments remain free to do under theirs."

His attention briefly settled on the scattered Veridian records before continuing. "I would much rather our response be a unified one. An Alliance operation carries legitimacy, shared responsibility, and the combined strength of every nation willing to stand behind it. If we are forced to intervene alone, then we will conduct that campaign as a Lilaste operation, planned and executed according to Lilaste doctrine rather than Alliance policy. That is not my preference, but neither is allowing this matter to end in another debate while those people remain where they are. I believe the time for talking is done. we have asked our questions and now we should now put it to a vote."

 

[Lander Stalwart]

Refuge
Tags: A'Runda , Laphisto , Xan Deesa , Shuklaar Kyrdol , Kole Silco , Zetsumei No Tenshi

Lander's Blaster Pistol, Lander's Prosthetic Arm, Feeling Lucky, Refuge
​

“I would vote on taking action. But the shock and awe displayed on Dormond Kaas would likely be inappropriate."

"Refuge stands in agreement," Lander stated. "Something more subtle to begin with. Rest assured, Commander Laphisto. We did not commit ourselves to the standards of civilization to sit inactive. In the rare chance that the Assembly does not agree, we all maintain our sovereignty to act. That is our right, after all."

Lander would stand and offer a glance to Xan Deesa , baring a kind and weathered smile.

"Thank you for being here and participating, miss," he offered. "I appreciate that you made the effort to voice your concerns. From my experience, though, calling someone a liar to their face isn't always very productive. But, if you find yourself motivated and want a surefire smoking gun..."

The man would stand and make his way over, taking a moment to examine the woman. Lots of cybernetics, perhaps her entire body. She clearly had a particular set of skills. It reminded him of an Alliance Slicer he once knew. That man was probably more machine than man by the time they came to blows with the Dark Empire.

"...catch them in the act," the representative concluded. "Words are well and good, but I intend to back mine up with the blade. Perhaps you may find satisfaction in a more hands-on approach."

And with that, Lander would return to his station and prepare his things for departure.

 

[Matthew of Valendale]

Tags: Laphisto | Lander Stalwart | A'Runda | Xan Deesa | Shuklaar Kyrdol | Kole Silco | ​

Matthew regarded the contracts in silence, listening as the others spoke.

"The petitioner's deportment is irrelevant. We are not voting on whether we find him agreeable; we are deciding whether these claims warrant action.

Centerra will not sit idle while the exploitation of its neighbors is permitted to prosper. I support reconnaissance to verify the evidence, secure the records, and prevent further suffering. Should these accusations prove true, those held through inherited debt, fabricated convictions, or forced contracts must be released."

He looked across the Assembly briefly before adding,

"This military action must not become a conquest of Veridia. Our aid should remain limited to the communities requesting it, with any provisional council surrendering its authority once lawful representatives are chosen."

Matthew inclined his head.

"Valendale votes in favor of providing aid to the people of Veridia."

 

[Shuklaar Kyrdol]

​

Friendly Units: None at the moment.
Units in Reserve:

• SB-01 Darasuum Morut-class Super-heavy Battlecarrier Darasuum Morut (in orbit)
• Vornskr Mirshir-Jurkad Rammikade company Kyramud (waiting with the gunship, on stand by)

Tag(s): Laphisto | Xan Deesa | Lander Stalwart | A'Runda | Zetsumei No Tenshi

Equipment

Armor Implant(s) Equipment Melee Sidearm(s) Rifle(s) Explosives

• 
  
  • Jurkad'gam
  • Back Weapon Mount:
    • Left:
      • A-03S Verpine Shatter Autocannon
        • GVSR-SA Guided APFSDS Magazine (1)
        • GVSR-HEIAPA Guided HEIAP Magazine (1 loaded)
        • GVSR-FA Guided Flechette Magazine (1)
    • Right:
      • MML-02SM Miniaturized Missile Launcher
        • Tracyn'vhipir-class Brilliant Plasma Missile (8)
        • Striilir'ika-M-class Brilliant Micro-missile (Baradium) (8)
  • Right Gauntlet and Vambrace: 'Verd b' Marev' Gauntlet and Vambrace
    
    • Weapon Mounts:
      
      • Left:
        
        • CP-03V CryoBan Projector
      • Top:
        
        • PC-05V Plasma Caster
          • Plasma Gas Medium Cannister (1)
      • Right:
        
        • TBP-01V Tractor-Pressor Beam Projector
  • Left Gauntlet and Vambrace: 'Verd b' Surhaai' Gauntlet and Vambrace
    
    • Weapon Mounts:
      • Left:
        • NML-02VTB Nano missile Launcher
      • Top:
        • METL-02V Micro Energy Torpedo Launcher
      • Right:
        
        • MML-01V Miniaturized Missile Launcher
          • Tracyn'vhipir-class Brilliant Plasma Missile (4)
          • Striilir'ika-M-class Brilliant Micro-missile (Baradium) (8)
  • Utility Belt Loadout:
    
    • Hardcase Spring-loaded Ammunition Pouches
    • Hardcase Spring-loaded Grenade Pouches
    • Hardcase Large Satchel
    • Softcase Large Storage Pouches (dump pouch)
    • Magnetic Clamp
  • Load-bearing Rig Loadout:
    
    • Hardcase Spring-loaded Ammunition Pouches
    • Hardcase Spring-loaded Grenade Pouches
    • Central Secondary High Capacity Rylith Power Cell
    • Medium and Large Gription Panels
  • Holster and Scabbard Setup:
    
    • 1x chest-rig mounted knife scabbard
    • 2x belt-mounted knife scabbard
    • 1x thigh mounted (dominant hand side) holster
• 
  
  • 'Agol'ja'had'-R Medical Implant System
  • 'Ori'aal'briik' Nervous System Enhancer
  • 'Nejah Oya'karur' Full-spectrum Immunity Booster
  • 'Agol'gam' Muscle and Bone Enhancement
  • 'Gar Tkiriyr' Neural Interface
• 
  
  • 'Shushai Rugam' Sensor Sphere (2)
• 
  
  • K-04 Skirata Ehn-ky'kal Kal (2)
  • Kot'hokaan
• 
  
  • DP-02 Class-D Heavy Disruptor Pistol
    
    • 'Kyrayc Sur'haai'-M 1-4x Short Range Optic
    • 'Drala Sur'haai' Targeting Laser/Illuminator
    • Ammunition:
      
      • 10-round gas cartridge-power cell combined unit (1 loaded, 2 spare)
• 
  
  • MCDC-01 Man-portable Class-D Disruptor Cannon
    
    • 'Kyrayc Sur'haai'-M 1-12x Medium Range Optic
    • 'Drala Sur'haai' Targeting Laser/Illuminator
    • Vibrosaw Bayonet
• 
  
  • BG-02 Baradium Grenade (6)​
  • SJG-02 Signal Jammer Grenade (2)​
  • NGG-02 Nagnol Gas Grenade (2)​
  • AWCGG-02 Anti-Energy Weapon Countermeasure Gas Grenade (2)​

[/slide]

"Those worthy of being freed…" He repeated the words slowly, as though the words alone were made of poison. "By whose measure?"

The naivete of this ad'ika was starting to wear thin in his patience. "Are there no real criminals among you, Veridian?" sighed Shuklaar in response. "Naturally those are to be left where they are." He resisted adding, "That's what shabla measure we're going ot use."

"The magistrates of Bái Sēn also speak of worthiness. They decide which hungry farmer is worthy of mercy, which frightened child is worthy of innocence, and which family may be named criminal until every useful hand among them has died beneath another man's authority."

"You speak their language more fluently than you know, Mandalorian…"

And that was when Shuklaar lost his patience. "Don't foist your biases and problems on me, boy. Don't, overestimate the worth of your intelligence. I've been at war longer than you were a thought in your parents heads." And then he left, pithy line delivered, he could evidently no longer bare to wait for the weight of the response that had been coming. Shuklaar took a breath. In his youth, he would have shot the boy right there, but now that he was getting older, he had come to realize that this was not worth it by far. As he had said, he was just the messenger.

That meant that he represented a group of people on the planet. A group that one way or another would have to be dealt with. Killing their messenger would hardly be conducive to this process, as much as it would make him feel far less frustrated with his apparent arrogance. There had been no refusal to help him, not yet, nor would there by if he was reading the room correctly. The others had the right of it, the time for talk was over, it was now time to act.

"Words are well and good, but I intend to back mine up with the blade. Perhaps you may find satisfaction in a more hands-on approach."

"Now you're speaking my language," said Shuklaar. "Breshig votes in favor," he announced, looking around the room to see if there were any dissenters. He couldn't imagine why anyone would, but who the shab knew, the day might have had plenty more surprises in store for them. Though he was less than eager to find out what. All that mattered now was figuring out how they were going to help the people who needed help, to haran with the politics.