A United Front - Emergency Holo Conference

[Danger Arceneau]

​

OUTER RIM TERRITORIES
ELYSIUM STATION
Danger's and Alric's personal office


A few hours later, Danger came to her data terminal with a fresh rested mind and a honed focus.

She had a fresh pot of black Starcaf with two sugars at her desk, a dark purple suit smoothed modestly over her form. Up in the years she may be, but she still made a striking presence, silver streaked hair and crow's feet in all.

Danger settled herself anew upon the data terminal [member="Alric Kuhn"] and her shared. The Govorner, [member="Cryax Bane"], through Bane Innovations own private channels had set up a secure network for this emergency Holo Conference. She had every faith in Bane's abilities, and it was with this knowledge that the encrypted holo conference was handed out to every individual and corporation within Danger's network. Some might attend, others may not, Danger knew and was aware of it.

However, something had to be done.

This was more than just an attack on corporate assets, this was an attack on the free market. Tyranny at its core with the coup presented by the Prime Minister and the chaos that followed.

Readying herself, Danger gave a weary sigh. This was an assembly of the likes the 'Verse had ever seen. A congregation of Corporation. The results of this conference could very well impact the free market if they came together as a unified front.

At the signal, she was informed it was time. Bracing herself, the Queen of Trade would reach forward to type a couple of quick stroke of the keys. That next instant, across the 'Verse dozens upon dozens of holo arrays would bloom to life, ushering in Chief Executive Officers, Presidents, Investors, concerned parties, supporters, and anyone within Danger's network that she could get a hold of. This congregation crossed government borders, Force philosophies, and cultures.
It was the representation of the many faces of the Free Market in the Galaxy.

Danger's cerulean visage across the holo array would give a cordial smile to those in attendance, but there was a noticeable strain in the corners of her eyes, in the slight tension of her shoulders. This meeting meant everything. It wasn't just the corporate parties that were attacked, but the ensuing Koros Butterfly effect as periphery connections came into play.

A deep breath, a slight raise of her chin, and the Queen of Trade began to speak.

Ladies and Gentlebeings,

I would like to thank each and every one of you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to meet with us today. I know that with the varying times across the 'verse, one ain't too happy to find oneself in a conference call at such a short notice.

Her shoulders straightened and she continued.


By now I am sure that each and every one of you is now aware that Prime Minister Lasedri has mobilized a clone army in a coup against the Republic Senate. What came next was a series of unprovoked attacks as the Republic fired the first shots of war against the private sector.

My priorities lie in the safety of the employees and their families of all private corporations within Republic territory, as this Clone army continues to wreck havoc with every hour. I want to save lives.

I am working with Senator [member="Ordon Trozky"] of Brentaal IV along with CEO Judah Dashiell of Salacia Consolidated at defending and evacuating those involved. I humbly ask for any assistance you may be able to provide to expedite the matter of evacuation with all the corporations affected by the attacks.



Alone, no singular corporation can combat this, but as a united front... we defend against the attack of the Republic Clone Army to ensure the safety of the sapients affected by their aggression.

However, this is more than just an attack on those corporations within Republic space, this is an attack on the Free Market as a whole. It affects all of us.

All the more were this Clone Army and nationalized Republic military under Prime Minister's Lasedri's rule start moving from the fringes of Republic space into the surrounding neutral sectors...

oocly: So i totally lost my first post i created for this. I blame my inability to ensure I'm on the right alt >.>

It won't be as good as the first rendition, but c'est la vie! At least I have a pretty pic!


ALSO! TO ALL OF THOSE WHO SENT ME MESSAGES IN THE DANGER, WILL ROBINSON THREAD, Don't worry, I'm still going to respond back to you. I just have a lot of personalized messages to respond to xD.

If i didn't tag you and you wish to join please contact in this thread icly [member="Aeri Vyn"] to get directed into the conference call. ​

​

[member="Popo"] [member="Judah Dashiell"] [member="Spencer Jacobs"] [member="Taeli Raaf"] [member="Uriel Escria"] [member="Ordon Trozky"] [member="Captain Larraq"] [member="Gerion Ardik"] [member="Draco Vereen"] [member="Tmoxin Temi"] [member="Cryax Bane"] [member="Rayl Wilded"] [member="Irys Arist'lar"] [member="Darell Irani"] [member="Darth Metus"] [member="James Justice"] [member="Ember Rekali"] [member="Lorelei Darke"] [member="Krenis Skirata"] [member="Aldiel D'Lessio"] [member="Gilamar Skirata"] [member="Alric Kuhn"] [member="Akatan Adasca"] [member="Ven'Rain Sekairo"] [member="Selka Ventus"] [member="Siobhan Kerrigan"] [member="Jorus Merrill"] [member="Darcy Sixsmith"] [member="Hion the Herglic"] [member="Sasha Santhe"] [member="Marcus Itera"] [member="Kelly Perris"] [member="Edwin Gerald Finbur"] [member="Isis Varida"] [member="Hestan Kantrael"] [member="Cameron Centurion"] [member="Amarant"] [member="Matsu Ike"] [member="Xander Black"] [member="Laguz Vald"] [member="Lisette Kuhn"] [member="Lord Mythos"] [member="Rusty"] [member="Ayden Cater"]

 

[Akatan Adasca]

The free market demanded defense. Even in the darkness of such attacks, the camaraderie of corporations spoke lengths to this silent brotherhood that existed among the stars. For Akatan, it was a simple gesture. What that meant was that no matter what an oppressive empire attempted, their threats would fall short of success. Because the galaxy was a large place and the dominion of the Republic ever decreasing in size. The image of the Arkanian flickered forward, mutated irises not obvious in the blue flickers of white star specks.

The Akatan family is disgusted at the acts of a desperate entity, clinging to power. We cannot offer security personnel or firearms of the like. However, if housing is required, ADASCORP has spent substantial funds recreating the Arkanian Legacy of Old. My very smart engineers decided to name it the New Arkanian Legacy.

The hologram visibly rolled his eyes, picking at his cuticle as he moved on.

The ship is sizable and not without it stores. Even at full capacity, we can subsist for two or more years. The ship is well enough defended and mobile, outside the reach of Republic space. For those hard workers displaced by the tragedy of such acts, I would offer home for them. Until the tides of tyranny pass or more suitable locations are discovered.

There wasn't much more he could offer, the capacity of the ship capable of storing near 75,000 for aid. He felt that was adequate offering, despite the hardships currently being faced. He could only do so much, especially with [member="Zola"] and her inquiry taking up so much of his attention.

[member="Danger Arceneau"] ​

 

[James Justice]

Location: The Lost Angel in dead space somewhere.
Time: 02:00

James was letting his massive fleet assemble from all parts of the galaxy. Massive how? Well, massive in that they all were his contacts. True, half of them he owned, the other half he had hired. Outsourcing. He was good at it. He had more contacts in tramp freighters and mercenaries than most even knew existed. But that's what you get when you literally grow up in this industry. He turned from the view port and took a seat, the holographic image of the spacer showed the smoke from his cigarettes lingering around him like a wreath.

He listened to the Queen of Trade say her piece. It was quite lovely. He could tell she knew what she was doing--the again, you don't ear that title without being good at words. He could respect that beyond anything.

"Miss, I tell ye that Justice Shipping fully supports ye," he said waving his hand, "All of ye. We are already moving to beat the feth out of these blimey scum-sucking shuttas. I be calling upon every privateer I know and all me fleet is moving in to make stab operations. We can't hope to win in an all-out war, but we be smugglers, pirates, mercenaries, and warriors. We be moving goods to get the people relief and if ye can give us intel, we will also get every bit of your good backs one way or the other."

James was sure they had already heard of his barbaric displays. The clones he had fought, be they few, so far he had brutally killed in combat. There were no simple one-shot deaths for them. All the officers he ran into who refused to surrender he destroyed brutally. He used their blood to send messages to those who found the remains, always painting the word "FREEDOM" over the carcass.

Yes, he was a business man. Yes, he was a smuggler. However James was also something else--a radical believe in freedom. Freedom to the point of near-anarchy.

 

[Ayden Cater]

[member="Danger Arceneau"] & Company

Ayden stood in the CIC of his personal starship whilst the CEC defense fleet trailed behind him. He was busy analyzing reports of the Republic's descent into madness, cross-referencing them with every documented clash between the Republic and the One Sith. There was still a part of him that was stunned at the turn of events that had transpired in the last day. How had the Republic gone so wrong in such a short time? Perhaps there had been an infiltrator by the One Sith who had somehow placed themselves in the upper echelons of the Republic and were pulling the strings.

However, the longer he pondered it the more he came to the same inevitable conclusion. This was the same woman who had espoused a belief in "selectivism", in rising up and taking power from those who oppress. Such views inevitably created revolutions. And now it was the Republic that had fallen victim to a madwoman's machinations. It didn't matter that it started with just one being, because it never ended with just one being. These things reached out and ensnared others. The longer she was left in power, the more her actions would spiral the situation out of control. If she was not removed soon, the conflict could potentially destroy the Republic. They were already on the losing end of a war with the One Sith, they could ill-afford a second war, let alone a third.

The display flashed, indicating an incoming call. The heavy levels of encryption meant it could only be one person. Bringing up the magnified visage of Danger Arceneau, Ayden simply stood and listened to her impassioned plea while simultaneously reading a report on the evolving events on Carida. "I'm afraid this is rapidly becoming about more than just the seizing of corporate assets." Ayden spoke up once Danger had finished speaking while uploading information on the continuing Caridian Massacre. "It seems has though the Republic is now in a state of civil war. The military is apparently backing Prime Minister Lasedri and has begun executing civilians alongside engaging in attacks on corporate assets. I have to imagine that similar attacks are being carried out across the Republic in the name of Lasedri."

"As CEC does not have any assets presently under Republic assault, we do not have any immediate destination. However, if this conflict continues to spiral out of control as it is currently, I will be leading my force to Carida to engage the Republic military and see about securing a beachhead to begin evacuations. With the state of chaos enveloping the Republic, I would not be surprised if the One Sith lash out. Border worlds like Carida stand to lose the most here." It was hardly a secret that Ayden Cater, despite leading the now dissolved Protectorate's wars against the Fringe and Confederacy of Independent Systems, was a man who could not stand senseless slaughter of civilians. Such things were the quickest way to earn his ire. "As always, we stand behind Miss Arceneau in this matter."

 

[Taeli Raaf]

[member="Danger Arceneau"] [member="Ayden Cater"] [member="James Justice"] [member="Akatan Adasca"]

Taeli had not been able to pull herself away from her holoterminal on her ship, so much so she had postponed the remainder of her trip until a plan had been made. So here she was, sitting on the edge of the galaxy in one of the spirals, and watching the live feed from multiple outlets across the galaxy.

"The situation might be even worse than Mr. Cater has alluded to," Taeli said as she came online to the holo meeting. "Aurora Industries hasn't officially made an announcement on what side we're taking, but that is merely a delaying tactic while we move assets into place. My primary concern, business wise anyways, is the shipyards in the Roche system that might come under attack. My concern as a Jedi is for everything else. Whatever may happen and is decided, Aurora Industries will stand with those here ... even in battle."

There hadn't been an official Jedi response yet, but it would be coming soon she hoped. If the Council dragged their feet ... they could very well be facing another Purge, knowing Lasedri's mistrust of Force users.

"In light of the events on Carida however, I think we all know what the eventual outcome will be," she continued. "I'll be dispatching Aurora's security fleet to the Roche system and send whatever else you might need to Brentaal or Carida. Do we know what the reaction of other galactic powers might be?"

 

[Krenis Skirata]

"Message for you, sir! Seems to be from the allied corporation conference!" A communications officer called from the bridge of the True Republic. Krenis nodded and heaved himself up, polishing some of the scuffs on his armor. He'd repainted it this time. Not white anymore. No, this was red and gray now with a modified Republic emblem and he strode to his quarters.

"Patch it to my personal quarters," He called back as he strode through the corridors, ignoring the protests from the medics who still hadn't finished tending his injuries. He stepped into his room as the feed sprang to life in time for him to catch the whole conversation to this point. He had some issues to take with some of their responses, but that would wait. Ultimately, they were meaningless. Except for one thing. He'd listen to the whole conference and answer questions if need be, but he had a rebellion to organize. That took a lot of time, which he didn't have. He'd throw his words in as quickly as possible and handle responses as they came.

"Pardon the interruption, but I have been in contact with Mz. Arcenau through anonymous reports and it is time I identify myself. Colonel Krenis Skirata, True Republic forces. I have the lead in rallying Republic loyalist forces against these developments. In answer to the claims of Mr. [member="Ayden Carter"], the military is not entirely backing Lasedri. Only the clone army she commissioned. They outnumber us. However, there is something you should all know. This behavior is strikingly similar to Order 66. As such..."

He paused as the ship rocked under fire once again, causing the signal to waver.

"As such, this is likely driven by inhibitor chips that manipulates the brain to enforce loyalty when the soldier might otherwise refuse." He paused again, "We have to disable those chips, assuming those exist." That was the other thing to report, in answer to [member="Taeli Raaf"]. "For other galactic powers, Chazwa is currently under attack by-"

His signal cut off entirely for a moment before reconnecting. Lights flickered and the whole ship structured. "-By One Sith forces."

He cut the transmission but kept an audio feed running through his helmet as he placed it on his head. They needed to take care of those anti-air guns if they would ever make it to DS-722 and his men. He strode from his chamber, slamming another fuel pack into his rifle and securing his pistols.

"ARC teams twelve and fifteen, be ready to deploy to speeders. We need to neutralize these AA guns if we want to make it to orbit."

He buckled over for a moment in pain as his injuries stretched, but he pulled himself upright and injected himself with a stimulant. There was work to do.

[member="James Justice"] [member="Danger Arceneau"] [member="Akatan Adasca"]

 

[Judah Dashiell]

[member="Danger Arceneau"] & Assembled


A long day made longer by the holo-conference. Not that he was complaining, it was rare outside of an auction to 'see' so many representatives from companies. Those that had been at each others throats weeks prior were now conversing on the galactic economy. If one had to guess, certain sectors were soon to become economic powerhouses. Techno Union. Silver Sanctum. Hutt Cartel. Anywhere with a less restricted and less turbulent government was about to be flooded.


It was going to create problems on a large scale. Labor, food, fuel.....Judah wasn't looking forward to the impacts all because the Republic couldn't agree on something. Reports had come in from [member="Siobhan Kerrigan"] that Firemane had successfully secured the Brentaal facilities and were escorting them back to friendly space. He wouldn't be breathing easy until they reached neutral territory however.


"I have no interest in taking sides. Salacia will continue humanitarian efforts for citizens, especially those we've worked with closely on Brentaal IV. While I stand united with those assembled, I think our focus should be on recovering assets and personnel first. Orbital and space stations can be easily stolen back while the Republic is busy fighting their many wars. "


"Same goes for goods....no doubt there are many crews looking to pick up this type of work now."


There was a slight pause and Judah shifted, looking at something out of range of the holo-conference.


"Miss Arceneau is correct, however. This is going to have major implications for free trade. Especially for those of us who may want to sell in the Republic sector. Are they going to start charging to use their space lanes? I wouldn't doubt if they seized goods off freighters for their own use."

 

[Mythos]

[member="Danger Arceneau"] & Those present

Mythos took all official meetings in his throne room, the capital city of Jar'Kai in Atrisia was as of yesterday in a state of solemn solidarity with the systems affected by the act of tyranny by the republic. Mythos personally was not deeply enmeshed in the private sector enough to feel the importance of the acts as well as the presently assembled yet he was an enemy of the republic, anything that would see it fall, would see Mythos interested in it. War was his business and business was booming.

He stood silent for the beginning of the proceedings, admiring the professionalism of the private sector and the rather distinct change in era between them. Where as Mythos wore ancient weapons, traditional silks and adornments of ages left to history books the people assembled here were much more...modernized. Mythos simply smiled at the proceedings. He noticed that the rumors of age not hampering the trade queens' looks were true....for once, gossips were right.

"Miss Danger, i am fit to represent only myself" He echoed the words [member="Sempra the Hutt"] had told him three years ago at the start of his acolytehood, yet now they were powerful as they never have been. "I am not a man of business i am a man of war, i do not deal in credits i deal in shattered armies and broken fleets." His eyes bared through the hologram to shine their amber flame distinctive of Sith Lords to the present company. "Your summons means much to me, you received my letter" He said with a chuckle, a letter handwritten with blood ink, as if hand written letters were not rare enough these days. "This brings me great joy and even more joyous i shall be when i fulfill my promise to you."

He stood up straight in his throne and shot a smile perfect for presidential campaigns. "I will build a monument, out of dead, republic, troopers." He stated. "Free of charge" he added eagerly. "If there is anything else i can be of service please inform me, there is no shortage of freighters,frigates and humanitarian aid in Atrisia. Point me the right way and i am humbly at your disposal"

 

[Serah Oricion]

Yusan stood, dressed in a suit and with his hands crossed behind him while his eyes shown their golden color. Not from darkside corruption but rather from this blasted Zorren body he had been forced into. He had been told to meet with [member="Aeri Vyn"] first via Holo conference, meant to screen him in order to make sure why he was joining for a good reason. He had no mask on him and was here for only the reason to ensure what ever happened here would preserve the republic and end the tyranny of the one woman who had taken control of it. He knew there would be other voices of reason, those whom he could trust on to bring a level headed air to this but he would not leave it to that if he had a chance to do the same.​

​

He was not sure who else was here, running a hand up to his eyes from his back and rubbing them. He didn't have much to do for now, he would save the thoughts and questions for once he was able to be cleared for the holo conference.​

 

[Ayden Cater]

"First it's worse than we feared, then it's not as bad; which is it then?" Ayden made no effort to hide his annoyance. "We have reports of armored units and ships firing on corporate assets. Are you trying to tell us then that every one of those are controlled by this mysterious clone army? Because if most of the military doesn't back her, then I fail to see how this has escalated past your ability to contain it. You are either woefully underselling the magnitude of the threat we face or the entire Republic is filled with nerf-humping morons for thinking that giving one person unilateral executive power and full military authority with a perfectly loyal army would not lead to this exact thing happening." Even as Lord Protector, Ayden did not wield absolute power. Planets were largely left to their own devices and even the Exarchs could exercise power against him to prevent this exact thing from happening.

"I have absolutely no doubt that there are elements of the military who do back the Prime Minister who are not clones. Even if we take your word for it, that these clones are somehow only doing these deeds by way of an inhibitor chip; how exactly do you propose we disable it? Unless the Republic has broken cross-galactic hyperwave linking, it's not like we can just flip a switch and the chips are fried. It would take powerful ionic fields, powerful enough to kill an organic being, to fry the inhibitor chip or invasive surgery to disable them. I somehow doubt that we can just ask the clones to wait in a line while we do triage on them. So we have a massive clone army, an unknown amount of starships and armored units, and who knows how many loyalist systems backing the Prime Minister. Am I missing anything?"

[member="Taeli Raaf"] [member="Krenis Skirata"]

 

[Amarant]

Amarant sat in her chair. The number of holograms present was staggering, the data-feeds coming in from virtually everywhere. As much as she wanted to send worms throughout and slice the whole beast, she knew full well that Bane was providing security. She sighed calmly, her gaze intent as Danger spoke. Danger was a Sun. Danger had supported her ascendance on multiples fronts, both as Ash and as Amarant. And while she knew little of Amarant's current situation, it did not matter. Debts were meant to be repaid.



She listened to Darth Mythos. It wasn't her concern. A Sith Lord with an axe to grind against the republic. Big Shocker. But force wasn't her strongsuit--at least, not in public. She would talk with Darrell Irani sooner rather than later about more discreet and ruthless means of dealing with this. Right now, she was here on behalf of her law firm--a powerful and corrupt one. She nodded softly. "As we confirm the safety of evacuees, my law firm will aid in the filing of petitions for asylum seekers. If people wish to flee the current mess of the Republic, the employees of Ash, Pembrooke and Welqzana limited will attempt to aid them in seeking both employment and safety abroad, if their current employers lack sufficient resources to do so," she said softly, smiling rather sincerely. She remembered when the republic forced the Suns to leave Nar Shaddaa. Now, she would once again play the part of savior. "Any evacuee wishing to seek permanent or short-term residence outside republic space in light of this tragic situation should be welcome to do so, after a thorough vetting process," she said with rather stern resolve.



She nodded and pointed at something only she could see, her hologram flickering briefly. "I am willing to expend resources in aid of this in a pro bono fashion, but I will also set up a trust in order to further finance the resettlement and repatriation. Should people or governments wishing to assist us donate to the trust, I will remember that kindness," she said demurely. She'd probably embezzle a portion off the top, but most of it would find it's way to the refugees, and keep the lawyers working through the case load fed and paid. After all, being greedy and powerful only worked if a large enough portion of people liked you. That was the part the Republic always seemed to get wrong. Power and greed were fine, but public perception had to still be good.

 

[Edwin Gerald Finbur]

As if the past few weeks hadn't been enough! Thousands upon thousands of credits thrown into one single facility. Though the credits by far weren't the worst of it! The stress, the malfunctions, the constant, seemingly ever-lasting stream of issues! Edwin would be driven mad if something wouldn't change, for it is safe to say that even a patient, cunning man could fall victim to the invisible force of boredom.

"Sir, you have a holo--" a few moments passed in near silence, interrupted only by the maddening screeching of machinery on the factory floor.

"I have what, you malfunctioning piece of dust-ridden corroded trash? Must I really consider replacing you again? For goodness' sake, it just gets worse and worse every day." A frustrated voice replied, a voice belonging to a peculiar old man, coat carelessly thrown over shoulders, and a golden monocle decorating his otherwise bland right eye, a voice belonging to Edwin Gerald Finbur, CEO of Czerka Arms.

"Sir, you have a holocall incoming. A certain... 'Danger Arceneau' requests your presence in the conference." The rusty protocol droid replied, unaffected by its master's previous insults.

"Conference...? What conference? What the hell are you talking about? Damn it! What did I miss?" Edwin shouted across the office, causing specs of dust to gently glide to the floor.

"A very important conference, regarding the latest actions of the Republic Prime Minister." The monotone voice calmly responded.

It didn't take much effort to find out exactly what the Prime Minister had come up with this time. Of course, it was a suicidal move. Attacking corporate assets, executing civilians, while waging war with a significantly more powerful faction would prove to be a very bad idea indeed. Something had to be done. Even if this didn't directly affect Czerka Arms, remaining passive could only make the situation worse!

"Oh my goodness... This is... This is pure insanity! How could this be?! The Republic?! The Prime Minister?! Yes... Yes, link me the holocall will you?"

Pacing nervously left and right, the transparent silhouette appeared before the union of corporations, quite late, without doubt. Edwin nervously watched the situation unfold, listening carefully to the words of his fellow conspirators.

"Forgive my late arrival. I am overwhelmed with tasks and duties at this time, though upon hearing the news... I am simply left speechless. Why? Why would the Prime Minister commit such crimes? Spontaneously? Seemingly without cause?" Edwin took a deep breath, before continuing on.

"If what you say is accurate... If the Prime Minister is personally protected by an army of elite clones, bent to absolute obedience, I fear that there is little deciding. Either we fight them head on, or we find a way to disable the chips, and personally, I must agree with Mr. Carter" Edwin's silhouette pointed briefly at one of the holographic figures. "How exactly do you propose we disable these chips, which by the way, may or may not actually be embedded within the minds of this clone army, without conducting surgery on every single one?" Edwin sipped his tea, choking on the liquid, causing him to cough like mad for a good ten seconds.

"No. It would take more resources, more effort, and more risk to even consider disabling the chips. We may not be able to fight them head on, at least not alone, but with the possibility of a civilian uprising... Let's just say that perhaps such an event could be useful to our cause, even if the citizens end up serving as nothing but bait. If it comes to war... I am already beginning development of new, top-tier assassin droid models. Czerka Arms is on your side, loyal and faithful. We have a Sith on our side. I say you accept his offer. I say we fight. United. Against the tyranny of the Republic Prime Minister, whatever it takes."

Even if a tad cringe-worthy, Edwin's words had some truth to them.

[member="Ayden Cater"] [member="Lord Mythos"] [member="Danger Arceneau"]

OOC Note: So late to the party... Just woke up, read it all, and made sure to write up a post, even though I'm pretty damn tired.

 

[Hira Mitsae]

​

Roche, Shard Forty-Two
Saiba Headquarters
Formerly Eridium Industrial

"Status."

"The system have been fortified, sir." Ash responded quickly. She tried to be as inconspicuous as cyborgly possible, standing in the corner of the room with her datapad and constantly in contact with the various units within the Roche Sector. It was pure madness, and Darell was glad he had decided to move his operations to the regional HQ the moment he heard about all this lunacy.

It was dangerous, yes, but at least he was close to the action and could act immediately. Sometimes he had trouble trusting other individuals to do what was necessary.

"Our agreement with Tenloss?" the CEO asked. His eyes were glued to the screens. Datafeeds directly integrated to the various holdings within the Roche Sector. As expected, the Prime Minister’s forces were having a hard time establishing any sort of foothold in the Sector. The Sith War had weakened their troops, the stance of the Verpine Government only bolstered the corporate resolve.

"Holding. Mandal Hypernautics has space superiority, and our ground forces have repelled four offensives already."

Darell grunted. He didn’t seem to be happy about the progress they were making. But then again, he wasn’t ever completely satisfied, part of why Saiba kept on growing. He would never be entirely content.

Ash suddenly looked up. "Holocall transmission incoming, sir."

"Who?"

"Arceneau Trade. It is the conference she promised us." Irani scratched his chin, before looking over his shoulder towards Ash.

"You gonna be able to handle things while I am busy socializing?"

A snort came from the blonde assistant. "Undoubtedly. I will be fine, sir."

That was all Darell needed. In any other situation he would have ignored the transmission, but this conference was important. Together with the other corporations they could make a firm stand against the Minister - Tenloss, MH and Saiba were holding out fine for now, but they needed to make bolder steps.

Only way they could strike back was to get backing from all the corporations involved.

~~~​

A holographic representation made up of blue photons materialized alongside the others.

Darell Irani was older. Years had passed since he had taken his first steps into the corporate scene, but all that experience had taught him one thing.

Everything was an opportunity.

And he could already see parts of a plan formulating itself in front of his eyes. That would have to wait for later though. Instead he simply listened to the Trade Queen, watched as others pitched in and noted who was present… and who weren’t present as of yet.

Then a lull in the conversation appeared and Darell himself spoke up.

"The Tenloss Corporation, Mandal Hypernautics and the Saiba Group are securing and fortifying the Roche System as we speak. We have managed to repel multiple offensives launched by the Prime Minister’s clone armies. We are holding out for now."

The CEO repressed the urge to yawn or stretch himself out a bit. It had been only a few days, at most, but he was starting to feel it nonetheless.

"Cooperation is key in this situation. We might come from different worlds, have interests in different industries, but this is an attack on all of us, make no mistake of this."
If the Prime Minister succeeded in her efforts, this would only pave the way for others like her to do the same thing. Selectivism was a disease - one which he had thought the Techno Union had eradicated a long time ago with the Rebel Alliance, but apparently optimism was at fault there today.

​

[member="Danger Arceneau"] | [member="Edwin Gerald Finbur"] | [member="Amarant"] | [member="Ayden Cater"] | [member="Yusan Fenn"] | [member="Lord Mythos"] | [member="Judah Dashiell"] | [member="Krenis Skirata"] | [member="Taeli Raaf"] | [member="James Justice"] | [member="Akatan Adasca"] | [member="Popo"] | [member="Captain Larraq"]​

 

[Hestan Kantrael]

OOC: Yeah, same for myself ^^" had a really heavy night (insomnia) and woke up at, like noon

@Danger Arcenau, [member="Taeli Raaf"], [member="Krenis Skirata"], [member="Ayden Cater"]

It was not something Hestan had expected to happen that quick. On one side, the Republic going almost Galactic Empire for a second time, with an army of cloned soldier taking over the whole place and, basically, doing whatever they wanted or the Chancelor told them to; on the other hand, though, being contacted through most obscure means by none other than the head of Arcenau Trade in an attempt to forge an alliance of corporations to "defend free trade in the Galaxy!" translated into other words, the sharks forming a temporary pack not to loose their pickings in the galactic trade scenario, he thought.
But the most astonishing thing was that the summon had some way or another gotten to him, on the smallest contractors, salvagers and, to be completely honest, junkies in the Fold. That was some big time occasion he should not have wasted, although the whole thing stank like rotten ronto. Yes, it was a request he could not afford to refuse, as usually wars could be summed up into a macroscopic flow of credits and tech that could have made him earn a bloody fortune in both terms, but on whose skin?

The civs. Basically, other people like him: common folks, with no fancy titles or funny skills, with their trades and bad things and awful habits and small joyous things they lived for. Yep, that was pretty grim stuff. Could he do something about it? Perhaps yes, being the main reason why he had accepted the convocation and in that precise moment was sitting in the pompously named "lounge" of the Long Run, surrounded by the holograms of so many big shots that he felt dwarfed when his own joined the fray. Also, the fact that so many people from so many different factions were almost amiably talking there... it always ended badly.
The discussion about inhibitor chips appealed his scientific curiosity: that was something he could do stuff about. He was no expert in bio-electronics, but he had some assets they could have found useful.

I apologize for being late: nebulae interferences made holographic contact nigh impossible. I am Hestan Kantrael and I trust you have never heard of me.
It is my understanding, whatever dubious political choices the Republic Military may have made, that these inhibitors chips do not rank high enough in the priorities list to deserve the attention of someone so important as the rest of you here gathered: as a man of science surely knows, too many variables like those related to this particular matter must be fixed before their parameter can be exploited with reasonable chance of success. However, I am one of the teeming masses that would most likely go unnoticed, and I have a nameless ship fit for a smuggling run or an abduction operation. Just a couple more people, nothing that would endanger the greater war effort, and we could delve deeper into the matter to be sure whether these chips are a true weak spot or only a loss of time.

Besides that, he had to know more. Broaden his competences and knowledge base, that was something more worthy than politics; and, perhaps, even help some innocent who had nothing to do with the mess that was happening. But that would have been a bonus goal.

 

[Malok]

It had been literal years since the Sith had seen the vibrant world. Bothawui, at a glance, seemed to be just as beautiful as ever...and that in itself brought back "fond" memories. Those were simpler times, back then. Times when Darth Metus momentarily stood for something outside of personal ambition. It was fitting then that the Arakyd Fleet began to muster over this world in particular, for today was similar to the past. Free trade itself was in danger: imperiled by the ravings of a madwoman.

However, the "esteemed" leader of the Republic had made a mistake. She poked the most powerful woman in the Galaxy, and now every corporation worth its salt was backing ATC. It would seem as though the Prime Minister had a death wish, and that was perfectly fine by the Sith Lord. Standing upon the bridge of his vessel, the Sentinel, Metus exhibited patience as the holo-conference began. He did not share his opinion yet, but only stood by as an azure projection...waiting to hear the thoughts of his new compatriots. Then, when he had a feel for where their heads were:

"This is war." he said simply.

"Yes, the primary concern of the present should be the evacuation of personnel and assets, but the reality is simple. The Republic has pulled the trigger and started a war that they will lose. I once thought that it would be the One Sith Empire that hammered the final nail in their coffin, but now I see that said honor falls to us. We must send a message to the Galaxy that Free Trade is not to be trifled with; that our corporations are not trinkets to seize whenever the feeling arises. We must destroy the Republic."

 

[Alndys]

"Outright slaughter is bad for business - it's the leaders of the Republic who are to blame, not the men and women with the ill fortune to live under it's control." Aldiel spoke up. The day-to-day operations of Silk Holdings fell to him, more often than not, as a consequence of his position as CEO, majority stockholder and one of two official 'inheritors' of the massive conglomerate. As Selka was largely MIA and Mara had little interest in personally attending meetings like this, the job fell to him. He didn't mind it, he never had; and a close working relationship with the couple who'd started the company gave him a good sense of the morals they entrusted him to uphold. "If this coalition intends to retaliate with military force, we must do so carefully and compassionately - using a surgeon's scalpel, rather than a warlord's bludgeon." He argued with a mild frown, sitting upright and adjusting his thin white gloves. "But I suggest that military action is not even neccessary, and staining our hands with blood will lose us the trust of the common people; trust that is necessary for any corporation, large or small."

"Ladies and gentlemen, we are businesspeople, not generals." The thin man explained with a small smile, before pausing and looking conflicted. "Apologies to those of you who might have actually been or are generals in addition to businessmen." Aldiel added in a jocular tone. "What purpose does it serve to go to war against a government who is foul and barbaric enough to use technology to compel their soldiers to battle? They will force their armies to fight to the last, whether they want to or not, and once we've exhausted more of our coffers than we need to to get rid of them, they will merely lurk in the shadows and strike vindictively at our assets and employees. This is not an issue that we can solve with violence, I suggest. But it is one that we can solve using what we already know and do."

"After all, a government is only a corporation that operates with the blessing of the common people - and the Galactic Republic's people are clearly divided and fatigued from so many wars." Aldiel sat back and adjusted his tie, folding one leg delicately over the other. "They are desperate enough for an edge to try and nationalize, to say nothing of their barbaric and clumsy battle tactics. They are a corporation on the verge of dissolution, I suggest. What we need do is handle them as one." The effete businessman offered a foxlike smile and gently laced his fingers together, his smooth voice rising in cadence and confidence. "Provide financial competition that their 'nationalized' assets cannot compete with. Fund their enemies to encourage a swift and overwhelming surrender. And when they've hit the bottom of the barrel and are crying out for new management... we buy them out like any other floundering company with a corrupt board, and ensure that the change of management into our hands, is heralded with the cheers and blessing of the people we've saved."

"We can establish a board, manage the Republic efficiently, and all with a minimum loss of life. In this call are some of the most skillful men and women the Galaxy can produce, surely we can come to a more reasonable and graceful solution than 'throw money at soldiers until they're all dead'."

 

[Antoir Setrrin]

{OOC Note: Yes, this is a really long post. Yes, I am sorry. I started writing this not long after Danger posted the topic, but a few things interrupted me along the way. I've come close to finishing it multiple times, only to have something happen, and then come back to several more posts. I have tried to respond to as much as I felt I could without completely swamping you guys with text, though it's understandable that I wasn't able to have a clear reaction to everyone. Feel free to skip everything up to the last few paragraphs, as what Ven says to the group is likely the only important thing. Unless you like plot, in which case feel free to read this 2000 word monster in it's glorious, perhaps a bit tedious, entirety.}

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She had been halfway to her ship when the invitation arrived. For a moment she had considered declining- after all, how could she deny the call of immediate combat? But a single glance from the messenger was enough to sway her mind. There was admiration in the clansman's eyes, a sort of wonder that reminded her just what position she was in. Being the Clanmother meant a lot more than just leading the charge. Taking care behind the scenes was just as important as rushing into the fray, especially when she had so many people leaning on her, relying on her judgement, turning to her for guidance. Now wasn't the time to play soldier.

Then again, she had never been playing. It had been real since she was still a teenager, dressed up in armor meant for someone a decade older, holding a deadman's gun. And as she sauntered back towards the council room, she reminded herself that this too, this mess before her, was real. Someone had shot at a Dewback and hit a Krayt Dragon. Now there was a price to be paid. A price that could end up coming from her neck, a check written in skin, signed with blood-red ink, the pen a mighty fine blade. Part of her wondered whether or not she'd be thrown in with Lasedri's lot simply for indirectly working for her at one point or another. If they did... Well, she was unsure of how she'd proceed.

I'll just have to tread carefully, then, she thought, closing the door of the meeting room behind her.

"Lilith, do you read me?... Lilith?" Ven said into her comm, awaiting a stronger signal before attempting to get a hologram of her adviser. A few moments passed without any word. Muttering a curse under her breath, the mercenary-turned-commander started removing her armor, tossing it aside with as much casualness as she could manage. If she was going to attend a conference call with Danger freaking Arceneau, then she was going to attend it in at least some simulacrum of refinery. By the time Lilith finally picked up the comm, Ven was already halfway done with pulling on her suit. "Lilith, I'm going to need you to finish going over that contract. I've got to go feed the wolves," she said, silently praying to whatever Gods may be.

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The call loaded up without a single hiccup. Within a few moment Ven went from being alone to being surrounded by the images of many, many unfamiliar faces. Dozens of them lit up the room, but only one really caught the aged merc's attention: That of the Trade Queen herself. She was as visually commanding as the Sekairo remembered, though noticeably older. How long had it been since she had seen a picture of the woman?... Perhaps I shouldn't have spent so long in wild space, she thought, trying to discreetly glance over the other individuals gathered. Appearances alone made it clear that they were a heavily varied group.

Yet somehow she still had the feeling that she didn't truly belong there. Most of these people held the power to shift economies by simply signing a few things (or at least that's how she perceived things). While she herself held a level of strength, she felt dwarfed by the nature of those she now sat with. They were an impressive array of actors, laid out on a stage that covered every part of the galaxy, now working to play a game unlike any other. Ven had heard many different names for this 'game', but she had never found one that she felt truly described the swarm of business, politics, and credits that this sort of thing could turn into.

Lilith liked to simply call it "The Game".

As the Clanmother listened to Miss Arceneau speak, she decided that the name was as good as any. They'd get work done regardless of what they called it. Lasedri's actions had sent out ripples, and now the effects had to be measured, disrupted, counteracted. Though she wasn't sure if she'd word it the same way, the Sekairo agreed wholeheartedly with the meeting's hostess. Only those cut off from the whole of the galaxy (as she had been mere months ago) would be able to avoid the consequences of the Minister's plan. If they wanted to keep things together, or to simply keep themselves in power, they had to act, and act soon. Had the mercenary been asked to come to a gathering like this when she was just a few years younger, she would have scoffed, opting for a more direct solution.

But she was older now. Older than the majority of those she sat in conference with. And while she would not dare call herself wiser than them, she knew that she was wiser than she had been before. This meeting, this game that she would have cursed in the past, was ever-so-important. Once upon a time I was a sword. Now I get to see who controls the hand... With that thought she leaned forward, gaze locked on the current speaker- a younger man with a thick sort of accent. Something about him reminded her of her 'glory days', and she found herself smiling softly at his words. If she wasn't trying to appear as serious as she could, she would have laughed, or added her own promises of aggression to his. Instead she waited, knowing she'd have a turn to express her own rage eventually.

Next to speak was someone she hadn't expected to ever lay eyes upon again. The man who had once been her boss- and the man who had also once ordered the murder of her wife. Simpler times, she thought, simpler but crazier. Ayden Cater was someone she respected for many, many reasons. And even if he did not know her name, or did not have any care in his heart for her, she felt the need to pay him the upmost attention. As it turns out, that served her well, as it told her of the state of affairs regarding a portion of the Republic. Her men stationed on Carida hadn't checked in for awhile. Now she had an idea of what might be keeping them so busy- a war between brothers.

Concerned, she shifted her posture, allowing her right hand to move under the table, moving to type furiously into a datapad. Lilith was already working hard, but Ven needed her to look into the matters of these executions. If some of her family were being killed... The thought made her blood feel like it was going to boil. In that moment she gave a silent vow, invoking the name of the Renegade Son, that if a single drop of innocent Sekairo blood was shed she would not rest until Lasedri's head was on her trophy wall. Right next to the stuffed Gundark she had wrestled (and killed). That anger distracted her, made her miss almost all of the next voice's words. She caught a glimpse of a woman's mouth mouthing, caught sight of someone she had perhaps seen in passing once.

The anger made it hard to think.

She only half listened to those who came after. One spoke of a fight on Chazwa, and she thought of the Rangers that Diane had trained there. Were they still alive? Were they even still on planet?... It took a lot for the artificial Firrerreo woman to keep from shaking or yelling. What the bloody hell was Lasedri doing? What had she caused? Ven shifted in her seat again, running a hand through her short, messy brown hair. An assistant had tried to slick it back earlier with only a bit of success. Somehow she doubted it mattered- the rugged look fit her. Fit her mood, her discomfort, her desire to do something.

Perhaps it helped in other ways too. Made her look more like her original self- the Ven from her first body, the real, natural one, who stormed around the galaxy causing trouble. That her had made a name for herself, only to be killed in a hospital. That version of her had brought a kid into the world, too. Maybe it was the thought of Darren that made her calm down again. The thought of fighting with Circe, only to have her child start crying, having to go and comfort him, to negotiate with her lover later, in quiet. Sometimes the quiet is best, she thought, listening as a man in traditional clothing spoke. He talked of war, and once more the Clanmother found herself smiling softly.

These people, or at least some of them, understood her bloodlust. Part of her wonders if it's odd that their anger helped her calm down, or at least funnel her own rage, channeling it, making it a tool. But she doesn't have long to question her sanity. There's a pause in the speech, a brief moment for those gathered to take a breath. And then, in a moment, it is gone. She was once more left to balance her own thoughts with what she hears from those around her. Conversation speeds up, with people starting to reply to each other instead of making their own opening statements. For a time Ven had trouble following the shifting, spoken tide. After a few minutes, however, she felt herself finding a rhythm to the conversation. Perhaps it truly is more like a game than most think, she thought.

While others talked of war, she thought of how to best present herself. Whatever impression she gave these people could very well be the impression they'd get of her army. That made her wonder if telling them- all of them- her name would be a good thing or a bad name. Danger obviously knew enough about her, or her connections with a certain Circe Savan and Vitor Imperiuse, to consider her worthy of the conference call. But what of the others? Even if they had heard of the Mad Merc, the woman who had cut a glory trail through the galaxy, the one who had fought several Sith Lords at once and did more than just live to tell the tale, even if they had heard of her... the face they saw before them wasn't likely to line up with the one they might have seen.

And even then, her legacy was as cold and chaotic as it was grand. For every life she had saved, she had ended a dozen more. Sometimes for credits, sometimes for messy 'revenge', and once, an entire campaign because a Vong madman managed to get someone to stick her soul back into a body but kept less of her personality and more of her skill. It had taken quite a few years, along with some therapy, for her to work her way out of that one. At least I was in a different body then. I'm not sure if anyone knew that monster as a Sekairo. The fact that few people had seen her without her armor lessened her fears to some degree. From this point on, this was the face that people were going to associate with her, and she was going to make damn sure that she made good men smile and bad men shake.

Eventually there was another pause in conversation, and she took her chance.

"It's war. An attack on our people, our goods, our freedom. It's an attack on a hellulva lot of things," Ven started to say, an intensity likely visible in her eyes, even through a hologram. "Lasedri's mad. She wouldn't risk angering this many people otherwise, and I've seen her work too much to think that she's a complete idiot." Revealing her past with the Republic was, potentially, a risky move. But it was a card she wanted in the open- lest it be another person who revealed it to the group. She had to be trustworthy. "Regardless, she's a madwoman in a position of power. Things will only continue to get worse until someone puts a bullet or two in her cranium. Even though we have friends left in the Republic, they're under a lot of pressure. Without assistance they might crumble beneath the tyrant's weight."

"I've got half a dozen units already stationed in Republic territory. With just a few sentences into my comm unit, I can have a dozen more sent to whatever locations need the most assistance. Clan Sekairo stands with the people," she said, turning her gaze to Miss Areceneau, "and with the Trade Company." With that she returned to looking over the others, trying to connect with those she could through simple, old fashioned eye contact. "If any of you require assistance moving or defending assets, let me know. I can have an escort or assault team ready within an hour of notification. Should anyone get attacked, I'll send a response team over as soon as I can, as long as I've been notified." The last part of her statement wasn't necessary. These people knew that she couldn't help if they didn't let her.

"As Clanmother, I swear to you that I shall help rid the galaxy of this menace. Give me a command, and you will find hellfire raining upon your enemies, or my name isn't Ven'Rain Sekairo."

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[member="Danger Arceneau"] | [member="Akatan Adasca"] | [member="James Justice"] | [member="Ayden Cater"] | [member="Lord Mythos"] | [member="Darth Metus"]

 

[Caulder Dune]

[member="Danger Arceneau"] | [member="Edwin Gerald Finbur"] | [member="Amarant"] | [member="Ayden Cater"] | [member="Yusan Fenn"] | [member="Lord Mythos"] | [member="Judah Dashiell"] | [member="Krenis Skirata"] | [member="Taeli Raaf"] | [member="James Justice"] | [member="Akatan Adasca"] | [member="Popo"] | [member="Captain Larraq"] | [member="Darell Irani"] | [member="Darth Metus"] | [member="Aldiel D'Lessio"]

The hologram of Gerion Ardik flickered in agitation. It was glaring at Lord Mythos for some reason. Who let this barbarian into the call? This was supposed to be a meeting of civilized powers, called to discuss the response to the uncivilized actions of the Republic. Then here came this joker yammering about building monuments out of corpses. Disgusting. If Danger had any sense still about her, she would have rejected association with this nutter. This was exactly why they had left the Techno Union in the first place! Then suddenly the holographic visage of Darth Metus spoke up, declaring that the Republic must be destroyed in its totality.

Oh, for Heaven's sake. This was why he had founded the Trade Federation, to get away from all this mindlessly malevolent lunacy.

"Danger, I don't mean to move off topic, but I advise you choose who you invite to these sorts of conferences more carefully in the future. When we start running in cahoots with bloodthirsty, incorrigible Sithlings, people are going to get the wrong idea. All this talk of monuments built of corpses and wholesale destruction... It is a most unbecoming discussion and frankly unworthy of our time. And you." Gerion turned to address Krenis Skirata. "If the Republic military is at war with itself, then it is in no state to effect positive change. As usual, it will fall to the private sector to clean up this mess."

With that out of the way, they could get down to business.

"I don't think I need to remind anyone that the crimes perpetrated by the Republic these past few days have already been perpetrated by the One Sith ten times over. Mass execution of civilians? Seizure of private assets? These are staples of the One Sith. They are hardly allies of the free market. Any sincerity they happen to have in this matter is incidental and we absolutely do not need their foul taint to stain our cause."

He looked at Mr. D'Lessio. A wise, competent man, to be sure. But mistaken in this moment. "To wait for the opportunity for a buyout is to waste time and allow the current rogue administration the freedom it needs to continue to wreak its ungodly havoc. That is not an option."

"That Lasedri's foul deed should go unpunished is simply not permissible. She cannot be allowed to remain in power, not for one moment longer. Evacuating personnel and assets, financing competition, this is merely an attack on the symptoms, not the disease. Already the Techno Union and One Sith descend upon the Republic capitol at Chazwa like an unruly barbarian horde. The abominable clone army at this dictatorship's disposal will be preoccupied on that front. While their attentions are held, we should strike their cloning facilities on Cartao and destroy this bastardized army at its roots."

"With any luck, Lasedri is already dead. I would have preferred to see her stand trial... But the One Sith are many things, and I would be remiss to say they aren't at least thorough. Regardless of where she ends up, their military will be crippled at Chazwa and their capacity to replenish their forces will neutralized. From there we must work with the Senate-in-exile to re-stabilize the region and put the proper government back in power, as I doubt whatever shattered remains of their unprofessional army will be suited for the job."

 

[Taeli Raaf]

[member="Danger Arceneau"] [member="Gerion Ardik"] [member="Ven'Rain Sekairo"] [member="Aldiel D'Lessio"] [member="Darth Metus"] [member="Darell Irani"] [member="Edwin Gerald Finbur"] [member="Ayden Cater"] [member="Lord Mythos"] [member="Akatan Adasca"]

"Typical Sith, always going for the most brutal option," Taeli muttered. "Don't you think if civilians see armored forces fighting Sith and Techno Union forces that are hellbent on leveling a city, they might start cozying up to the usurper? Hearts and minds need to be won, not monuments to ego and bloodshed. We have to show that it is only Lasedri and her coup we oppose, not the actual full Republic. There is a gathering of resistance forces on Colla IV being led by Senator Balor-Organa. While we need to make our own stands and fights, we should be sending money and material to them ... as much as we might desire."

Outright barbarism disgusted her, so she agreed with Mr. Ardik that was not the path to go. Precision strikes and limiting or resources to Lasedri's clone forces were much better for them. Cartao was an excellent choice in her opinion, but it wasn't the only cloning site for Spaarti. However, it was the main one in Republic space and it would be heavily fortified after Lasedri had seized it after the Tholatin incident.

"I would support a strike on Cartao to disable the cloning facilities there, as suggested by Mr. Ardik ... but I will not support in anyway the actions being done on Chazwa right now."

 

[Mythos]

OOC: too many tags.. i cant!
[member="Gerion Ardik"] [member="Danger Arceneau"] [member="Taeli Raaf"] [member="Ven'Rain Sekairo"]
Mythos rolled his eyes at the sound of Techno Union Capitalist banter. "Spare us your civilized banter Ardik, if it were not for Vereen and his clan i would have your skull adorning my palace at the moment. Either way, the One Sith works side by side with the private sector but we do not take orders from it."

Mythos had a feeling this civil discussion was going to to get out of hand quickly, what they called barbarism Mythos called the natural order of life in the galaxy, blood stained the ground and blood gave life back again. "As for the techno union and the assault on the capital, let me say this slowly so you can understand in terms that aren't tax exemptions. "

Mythos shuffled forward in his throne and placed his hands in front of him as if holding a sphere."We are not interested" He paused biting his lower lip. "in your opinions on military matters, i will reiterate."
He smiled,kicking his legs up on the throne of Atrisia. "If the private sector needs our humanitarian aid in this time of crisis, we are here as stated before, as well as any security and military operations they might need, as for the rest" Mythos waved his hand dismissively."Not our concern, if the republic did not want their capital razed, they should have stationed better troops in it"