Contraary to Popular Belief (Mandalorian Empire Dominion of Contruum)

[Yasha Cadera]

Contr-aary to Popular Belief
Mandalorian Empire Dominion of Contruum

The Contruum System was well known for its’ shipyards, and its’ rugged, courageous people. Thus, Mand’alor the Infernal’s advisors spoke of a less militant touch. So it was, that a contingent of the Mandalorian Empire came to Contruum to make a deal.

People as wily and courageous deserved to be looked at eye to eye, and spoken to with clarity. With the recent shake of the Free Worlds Coalition, the Mandalorian Empire saw before it a clear and present opportunity to increase industrial strength and bring more warriors into the fold. South became a beacon, and Contruum would be the continuation of the economic rejuvenation the Infernal paired with ecological security.

Mand’alor the Infernal watched the landing procedures from the relative comfort of the Captain’s Office of the Shereshoy. Today, a retinue of Mandalorian business magnates and government officials would open negotiations. With her, such dignitaries as they had waited to hit the surface.

Guns could wait for another day, kept in their holsters. By the end of it, any Mandalorian company with an interest in manufacturing would have their day. Yet again, Mandalore was being rebuilt.

Spoiler

[member="Kaine Australis"] [member="Kaden Mantis"] [member="Artemis Lux"] [member="Shia Kryze"] [member="Gray Raxis"] [member="Deram Carid"] [member="Adora Namadi"] [member="Kervo Namadi"] [member="Silas Mantis"] [member="Karsan Calnov"] [member="Cassiopeia Caranthyr"] [member="Parja-Kal"] [member="Quoron Viszla"] [member="Tal Vizsla"] [member="Liset Vereen"] @Avia Wren [member="Connory"] [member="Caz Australis"] [member="Dorn Skirata"] [member="Amanda Kryze "][member="Jaster of Clan Awaud"] [member="Deram Carid"] [member="Kur"] [member="Amaya Cardei"]

 

[Gaia Sunaris Cadera]

Cassiopeia hadn't expected to be on a ship with the Mand'alor of the Mandalorian Empire. She had never expected to be this close to someone who literally ran a nation. Granted, she never expected to be teaching kids of a General, either. In either case, she was happy her life had turned this course. She wanted to help as much as she could rebuild Manda'yaim.

She was sitting near the exit of the ship. She had been mentally preparing herself for the day ahead - reading through a book on negotiating, to mentally imaging the scenarios they would come across. They hadn't wasted time to begin negotations - a good thing, considering the state of the galaxy, to get into Contruum after the fall of the Free Worlds Coalition. Never known to be under dressed, she wore an elegant dress.

Contruum, from several reports, would be a great planet to have in Mandalorian space. She represented really no one, at least from a business perspective - she simply wanted to help so the government could rebuild their home planet & grow economically and militarily. It would be a challenge - and a new experience for her, but she felt like she could help with the negotiations.

Time would tell if she could. In the meantime, she felt the gentle landing of the ship and she took a deep breath. She got a little nervous being around super powerful people, although she had begun getting familiar with the Mand'alor & other government officials through Kaine. It was still intimidating, but nothing she couldn't handle. It was almost time!

[member="Yasha Mantis"]

 

[Fiolette Fortan]

The Fleetwood
Truum Sector, Contruum System
Task Force 648; the Nightbloods (Ca Tal)

"Ladies and gentlemen," Fiolette stood at the head of her conference table, "welcome to Contruum, we're here today to help our Mandalorian friends delve into industry and more importantly into the corporate world." And her pocketbook, dressed in a suit that she borrowed from an old friend Fiolette looked over at Petrovsky, "could you be a dear and arrange for our assets from Onderon to head up here. I have a few... ideas for this sector."

"Of course!" He saluted and sped out of the conference room faster than a Mandalorian going Chitty Chitty Bang Bang over new beskar. The executive took her sunglasses from the conference room table, "Kit, Rae you're both with me. Farrah you have the bridge, Ao, Shed and Raol you're on shopping duty. Get anything we're short on, Tala make sure to help the Mandalorians with any medical equipment they might need." Fiolette dismissed the meeting and headed to the shuttlebay with Kit and Rae not too far behind, both ladies were dressed in their finest suits. Contruum had a great many resources that were still ready to be used, but it was Contruum Six that she was eager to see.

Climbing into the sleek shuttle that screamed wealth the three women waited for Dansen to get settled. Once the droid was ready the shuttle piloted from the Fleetwood's shuttlebay. "Let's let the Mandalorians know that we're here."

Rae nodded with acknowledgment as she drew up communications from her seat and made contact with the Mandalorian Empire's representative.

Kit reached out to the 648, "and the Nightbloods are en route to Contruum Six, requesting permission to dispatch scouts."

"Granted." Fiolette replied, "and let's take a look at the rest of the sector as well."

"Alright, message sent."

"Contact made with the Mandalorians, we're being directed to a meeting point."

"Good."

 

[Yasha Cadera]

“Ma’am, the delegation from Primo Victorian is requesting docking coordinates.”

“Splendid. Let’s get to it, shall we?” Arranged from a loose contact to Amaya Cardei, the Primo Victorian Independent Shipwright was turning into yet another company who could find bastion in Mandalorian space, and production for the new Mandalorian Economy.

Economic recovery was top of Yasha’s priority list, and while the fleet and the military resounded as a welcomed and loud chorus, they needed the finances to run.

MandalMotors, with the direction of [member="Dorn Skirata"] & [member="Zeke Farthen"] was a major player in that economic boon, and Yasha hoped the men would make their way to Contruum to take part in the negotiations for the system’s protection.

What could Farthen think up, if he had even more access to shipyards and engineers?

“[member="Cassiopeia Caranthyr"], tell me again what you know of the Contruum System? I’m sure an educated hand will help in our mission… as will having at least one person not in armour.” A bit of humour to the armoured woman’s voice, Yasha smirked and held [member="Kaden Mantis"]’ arm as the ship touched down.

“Alright… Everyone? Let’s go.” Looking to the others in the ship’s receiving bay, Yasha watched as the large hatch lowered, and she caught the first rays of the Contruumi sun.

Under the Contruum sky, half a dozen dignitaries primly attired and serious of face waited to accept the Mandalorian contingent. With any luck, [member="Fiolette Yvarro"] and her retinue would be landing and joining in the negotiations.

“Madame Mand’alor, welcome to Contruum! Welcome! We are eager to move the retinue inside for our negotiations. I hope you saw the shipyards are all in working order, and Contruum offers many economically sensible options. Shall we?” The Ambassador said, offering his thin, caramel skinned hand.

Yasha shook it firmly, and smirked. “We have a few more coming, but I don’t mind at all waiting out here. The weather is perfect and I’d very much like to see how you operate, while the others get here. Thank you, Mr. Ambassador.”

[member="Kaden Mantis"] [member="Gray Raxis"] [member="Kaine Australis"] [member="Deram Carid"]

 

[Gaia Sunaris Cadera]

Cassiopeia was briefly lost in her own thoughts & concerns. So far, her future seemed exciting, fresh, and adventurous. She was lucky to be able to help Kaine, the Mand'alor, and others. If they could succeed in getting Contruum under their control, they would have fresh access to shipyards and a very strong economy. Plus, the entire Contruum system was a powerhouse, in terms of economy & in population, - particularly so for a region in the Mid Rim.

She stood as Yasha, Kaden, and others came into the receiving bay. She chuckled a little at the Mand'alor's joke. Her sense of fashion mainly came from her home planet and the village she lived in. Plus, it wasn't every day she could wear her dresses. Although, the armor on most of the others always made Cassiopeia feel awe-inspired.

"Well, Mand'alor, it is arguably a powerhouse of the Mid-Rim. Tropical world, most cities are arranged on the equatorial band. Primary inhabitants is humans, galactic basic is the standard language, and they of course have an amazing shipyard. The entire system, though is fairly populated." She smiled, "But... Not only do they have a great shipyard, they have a large farming band - almost enough to be considered an agriworld." Maybe she was nerding out too much? "Plus, they have amazing universities - particularly in industry, geology, metallurgy, and engineering." She took a breath, "All in all, it is a major exporter of starships, but it also has lots of farmlands and a great university system. Those are some really great things we shouldn't discount."

Maybe Yasha hadn't been expecting a speech on Contruum, and maybe she knew most of it anyways, but at least she knew Cassiopeia knew what she was talking about. Hopefully, at least.

She cleared her throat only somewhat nervously as the hatch began to lower. She felt the sudden wind slip into the ship and she took a deep breath of the fresh, natural air. It was always nice to take a moment to enjoy that feeling of being back on a planet. As they walked down the ramp, she took in the sight, including the Ambassador and his companions. They would be awaiting the arrival of more people, which was fine with Cassiopeia. She was enjoying the weather herself and taking in the scenic view.

 

[Fiolette Fortan]

The Fleetwood
Contruum, Torian City
Task Force 648; the Nightbloods (Ca Tal)

Torian City, it felt like any other city but Fiolette was sure the locals didn't feel that way. Contruum if she recalled from her Galactic History courses back at the Imperial Atrisian Academy had been a world rife with stories and flags. Indeed there had been many flags over the planet, the original great Galactic Republic, Exar Kun's Sith Empire and of course the Mandalorian Neo-Crusaders. Darth Revan, Darth Krayt, and the New Republic had once planted flags here as well. The fact that starships were listed as a major export was definitely a giant neon sign as far as Fiolette had been concerned. And so when the shuttle arrived at its designated landing bay, the former grand admiral was more than eager to get negotiations underway.

Stepping out of the shuttle she used one hand to sweep her coat back while the other helped Kit and Rae out. "Remember we want a production yard and a research facility, and if we can, purchase space for a large starship production facility if they don't already have one ready to go. Kit, what's the status on those scouts to Contruum Six?"

"They've reached the surface, deploying mobile vehicles as we speak," Kit reported and then put her hands behind her back and turned to her girlfriend, "ready to go shopping?"

"With you?" Rae chuckled, "sure, c'mon."

Fiolette grinned, "please don't spend too much, send me the price before hitting the yes button."

"Thanks mom," Kit quipped in return before she and Rae faded into the distance.

Dansen waddled his way over, "madam your speeder awaits to take you to the negotations, and might I say I thoroughly appreciate your taking on Mr. Btedan he has been most splendid."

"You're quite welcome Dansen, now then, tell me who it is we are meeting with," she asked as they walked from their landing by passing by locals and their street carts in the corridor. It was illuminated well enough, not much for Fiolette to complain about as Dansen informed her about [member="Yasha Mantis"] and the delegation that awaited them. Even though she worked in the Navy in a past life, delegations and gentle negotiations were not far from her expertise. You didn't get to Grand Admiral solely with combat and if you did then you were a serious deterrent to yourself and a one-trick pony. Dansen and Fiolette climbed into the speeder and headed to the meeting without issue.

Upon arrival, it didn't take Fiolette long to recognize who she was meeting with. Dansen opened the speeder for her and walked with her to greet the Ambassador and the Mand'alor. "Mr. Ambassador, Madame Mand'alor, Fiolette Yvarro of Primo Victorian and this is my personal assistant Dansen vom Autieg."

 

[Gray Raxis]

Ships were becoming the name of the game when it came to the current military trends. In the past it was fancy tanks and walkers with an ocean of infantry around them, but today it was about having a fleet that could block out the sun for the entire planet. In light of that fact and because of the need to boost Mandalore's economy as much as possible, Gray had spoken with his daughter [member="Yasha Mantis"] about expanding towards Contruum. The system had much more to offer than just shipyards after all. There was minerals and metals for building ships, vehicles, and equipment to be had as well. Then there was the manpower. The Mandalorians could use more manpower if any conflict came up, and conflict was due to happen soon.

The Mandalorian Empire was heading towards the Contruum system. Gray was happy to hear that his girl had listened and knew the value of trade. Without trade they couldn't rebuild or fuel their military. It seemed that along with them had come [member="Cassiopeia Caranthyr"] and [member="Kaden Mantis"] as well. It was good to have his son-in-law along, but he couldn't say he knew this young woman. All he knew was that she belonged to Clan Australis which meant her alor was [member="Kaine Australis"] . She seemed to be well informed as well, a pleasant change from her meat head alor. Not that there was anything wrong with him being a meat head, but too many Mandos tended to be that way. Regardless, they landed and were ready to meet with the Contruum reps.

They were met by an ambassador. The man seemed eager to speak with them and make some kind of deal. Odd, but good. There had been Mandalorian influence in the surrounding systems going back thousands of years after all. It seemed they judged the flow of things and knew it was better to welcome Mandalorians in as friends rather than resist them as an enemy. Gray gave the man a nod and a smile as he took in the room. He was wearing his clan's armor with the Raxis wolf over the heart. He lacked his helmet and instead had his gray scarf covered in Mandalorian symbols over his eyes. A new arrival did join them though and introduced themselves. This [member="Fiolette Yvarro"] got a nod out of him as greetings. He just followed along and kept quiet for now. Better to let his daughter do the talking at first and then see if he could gain something for one of his companies out of this later. Mandalore came first though.

 

[Kaden Farr]

Kaden was nervous. Diplomacy wasn’t his strength. The beskar hearted and war beaten man looked as much the diplomat as a rancor did. His black pitch coated armor spoke of the hell he had Yasha had been through, and the missing eye was covered with a patch he’d had nailed into place. It spoke of his life as a killer. Perhaps he would have turned out different had the Netherworld not been his home for seven years, but it was too late and wrong to dwell on those thoughts. Yasha had learned, but Kaden was there for one thing only, protection.

Perhaps he would learn, but his role as husband and soon to be father was to keep his wife and child safe. Anyone that would threaten them would discover how ferocious he could be. Fortunately this even was supposed to be peaceful. Kaden would keep his place a two behind and to the right of his Mand’alor and riduur.

[member="Cassiopeia Caranthyr"] kept talking about the world they were hoping to obtain. He wasn’t used to the braniacs quite yet, though appreciated their input. Kaden was so used to being a fighter his mind seemed to be set in one narrow vacuum.

He sighed.

Kaden wished he could be of help to his bride the way the blonde was, or even. Baiko. Baiko had taught Kaden mangy hings which he’d get to apply. Perhaps now was the time to try. He was there to protect, but he could observe, he could try and catch when something was not in the best interest of the Mando’ade. Kaden would keep his people first, always. After all, his destiny was to be Yasha’s Warmaster. It was what they had always dreamed of, something which carried them through the Netherworld. He would always be the shaft which guided Yasha, the tip of the spear.

”Perhaps when we are done here, a bit of rest and relaxation is in order. We’ve yet to have a proper honeymoon...”

Kaden has sidled up to his wife after she had spoken to the ambassador. It would not be long before the talks began.

[member="Gray Raxis"] [member="Fiolette Yvarro"] [member="Yasha Mantis"]

 

[Yasha Cadera]

“My kind of people, then. You did well, I’m glad we have you along, Cassiopeia. Keep it up... I might need you to remind me of the facts once we're in negotiations. You'll do great.” The Mand’alor nodded for [member="Cassiopeia Caranthyr"], glad to have a brainiac around for the ride. It was hard to admit Yasha didn’t know about the agricultural exports, instead having concentrated on the shipyards. Looking to [member="Kaden Mantis"], the young wife gave him a smile and wrapped her arm around his for a brief moment.

They were succeeding. Finally, the stress of the Cataclysm was breaking and the Mand’alor stood triumphant not over a battlefield, but a field of plenty upon which the foundation of the Mandalorian Empire could be plied to last for uncountable moments. Pressing her hands briefly on the swell of her pregnant belly, Yasha felt for the first time a sense of excitement over dread.

The Mando’ade were not starving. Mandalorian Companies were picking up production and building more than emergency supplies or bandages. The economic defibrillation from the post-Cataclysm world was a success, and now was time for more than just her waistline to grow. If all Mand’alor the Hell Wolf (or Mand’alor the Infernal, as ba’vodu quipped) was known for was giving the Mandalorians an advancing economy again, and rebuilding after tragedy, then it was sufficient.

Course… she’d never leave it at that. There was too much to do! Yasha and Kaden were to be parents, after all. “A honeymoon sounds great, Kade’ika. Maybe we could swing by Daddy’s for a couple of hours on our way to… wherever it is we go. He said Silver Rest was peaceful, and… peaceful sounds amazing. Buir and Baiko can handle things on Mandalore for a week or two, right Buir?”

Yasha let her whisper rise to include her adopted father [member="Gray Raxis"]. [member="Baiko no Kaho"] and Gray could handle things for a few weeks. Heck, Baiko could probably handle them single-handed… and that thought alone made Yasha grin as she turned her face away from the oncoming Ambassador and the delegation from Primo Victorian.

“Admiral [member="Fiolette Yvarro"], Mr. von Autieg, welcome to our Contruum party.” Yasha smiled down at the smaller woman, offering a firm handshake and genial expression to her mostly ferocious, yet now pleasant face.

“Yes! Introductions are well and… greetings Ms. Yvarro, yes then, I assume any others will be greeted by our reception staff and guided in. If you will follow me, we have refreshments prepared and the table laid out as you, Madame Mand’alor, suggested.” While the neutral expression on the Ambassador’s face was telling enough of their remaining concern over the negotiations, Yasha kept her eyes open for potential assault.

“Just Mand’alor, thank you.” The group of them were moved at the appearance of [member="Kaine Australis"] to the interior of a vaulted and well appointed convention room with a large round table and two dozen equal chairs.

Mand’alor was as specific as possible to maintain [member="Ra Vizsla"]’s desire that all negotiations took place with equal placement for all. She needed neither throne, nor did she require being at the head of a hierarchical table.

“It is the Mandalorian Empire’s hope that by the end of this day, Primo Victorian, MandalMotors, MandalArms, WESTAR and RID will have purchase and placement in this system. That we can all come together to create another hub of galactic economic importance, and technical innovation. The Mandalorian Empire looks to its’ South and sees a land of upheaval. Stability is a new gift, and a welcome one in the Mando’ade Systems, and we would offer to continue that stability forward into your System. I shall, of course, let the representatives of each corporation speak for themselves, since my intent is clear. Mand’alor would have you with us. So please, Mr. Ambassador. Tell us also what you can give to the Empire.” Eyeing the people in the room, Yasha kept one hand below the table and on her growing stomach.

What had she to fear, when to her right sat the warrior who challenged Hell to save her?

 

[Gaia Sunaris Cadera]

Cassiopeia was glad that she didn't seem to have to actually talk to the other individuals outside of the Mand'alor and her delegation. Heck, she barely had to even talk to people in the Mandalorian delegation. She barely had interacted with Kaden or Raxis but both seemed to have listened to her when she explained the numerous benefits of having Contruum under Mandalorian control. She didn't even talk to Kaine, but he seemed... Distant, for most of the ride.

She was going to enjoy watching, observing, and learning more about the planet & the individuals who inhabit it. If Mandalorians were to come to own the system, they would have to understand and know the people that inhabit it. Wouldn't want them to turn around and hate us. We'd want them to want to be apart of our nation - loyalty was something we'd need from them, too. Granted, that really wasn't what she was supposed to be doing here. It's just what was going through her mind.

She nodded a confirmation towards the Mand'alor. It is her, theirs, and Cassiopeia's kind of people. She nearly beamed from the praise of the Mand'alor. It wasn't something she was expecting, particularly after going on a nerd fest over the system. Yasha even mentioned she might need her during the negotiations. She nodded with a wide grin. She was an open book, full of knowledge. If she had a question, she'd have an answer... Hopefully, anyways.

After that conversation, though, the focus went on the other delegations. The Admiral, the Ambassador, and the people apart of these different delegations began interacting with each other. She followed the group as they entered the convention room with a pretty large table. Cassiopeia took in the sight. Had she ever been in a room like this before? After sitting down, she crossed her legs and let her attention go to the Mand'alor as she gave her introduction.

Her introduction ended, though, it brought Cassiopeia's attention to the Ambassador. She wondered what his selling points would be.

 

[Cynthia Solus]

[member="Kaine Australis"]

Cynthia kept at the back away from the others. She was using her time to work on the new armor at the moment she was simply working on the helmet. It kept her mind off of things kept her distracted. She was trying to fight everything stirred up inside without trying to rely on anything like Telezan. It was hard and she hadn't even spoken to Gray yet, she couldn't bring her self to yet. She felt as if he'd be disappointed. He was still alor and vod but it didn't make it any less painful. She put the helmet into a rucksack as the others began to exit the ship. Cynthia was last off and kept a small distance behind them all. Her eyes would glance the back of her alor's head every few seconds befor shuffling off to the side trying not to be seen. If it went as she planned the others would leave, leaving her to stay by the ship to keep working on the helmet. Internal wiring was a mess never mind adding the old software and adding in the new. One thing for sure the damn thing would have a little more weight to it packing in an extra cell and hard drive.

The fresh wound on her arm was covered up by the leather band she always wore. So even if she was to get orders anyone she was sent with wouldn't really notice it that much ... hopefully. It didn't cover it fully but it was enough.

 

[Fiolette Fortan]

The Fleetwood.
Contruum, Torian City.
Task Force 648; the Nightbloods

She recognized no one, and part of her was okay with this.

The other part? Wasn't. She wondered if it was too late to summon Evalia and Sarun half-way across the galaxy. They were her Pathfinders but more importantly guards, unfortunately, they've been left to Clarras on Zonju V. Thankfully the demeanor of the Mandalorians present seemed pleasant enough, "Admiral, well now someone has done their homework." Fiolette gave [member="Yasha Mantis"] a cheeky grin, "pleasure is mine and thank you." The Galidraani took the offered hand and shook. The firmness of her grip would hark to the Imperial's days as a military leader while her posture spoke to the upbringing of a noble. The ambassador seemed a little jumpy, or maybe eager was the word, either way, Fiolette followed him without issue and Dansen greeted them all with a kind hello before waddling off after his master.

Fiolette's Hi-Sense ocular implants activated allowing her the look and layout of electrical outlines and nodes. She blinked again and they were deactivated, she noted the presence of [member="Kaine Australis"] and a few of the others, [member="Kaden Mantis"], [member="Gray Raxis"] for starters and of course [member="Cassiopeia Caranthyr"]. Each of whom was noted by their facial features and she'd put the names to their faces from the files Dansen went over just before their arrival. The blonde took her seat and gestured for Dansen to sit but he said he was fine standing and began to record the meeting just as it started.

First and foremost, Fiolette's experience with the Mandalorians as a whole had been limited. And what she had to recall from did not match what she was seeing presented before. Prior, all she had were bloodthirsty men and women who could not be satiated. Prior, all she knew was that they were either fighting each other or were chained war dogs that belonged to either Imperial or Sith nationals. Today, she was impressed - finally, a Mandalorian that could do more than just shout Mando'a at people while waving their beskad around. Someone who could speak the standard and with something akin to grace. She shifted in her seat to the left and then the right, adjusted her coat and watched the young woman with interest.

Secondly, the former Grand Admiral noticed something.

She smiled.

To be young, married and with child if I were in her position I'd have Josef yelling at me to sit down while asking if I needed anything.

Her ex-husband was a good man, a caring father, and a wonderful husband.

Meanwhile.

VSS Raskova along with VSS Dagger and Morningstar sat in orbit of Contruum Six. Monitoring the situation down on the surface and relaying feeds to Kit and/or Dansen. Thus far, Contruum Six looked to be what they were looking for to house a synthetic crystal facility.

 

[Yasha Cadera]

"Ah! Well! Hmm... admiral didn't know she was a..." The Ambassador muttered, leaning over to the protocol droid behind him. [member="Fiolette Yvarro"] an Admiral? He thought she was merely the CEO of a well appointed company... oh well... oh my.

"Yes!" Straightening his jacket, the Ambassador waited as stimcaf and tea were served, mentally taking note of the Mand'alor's words, and reminding himself to breathe. These weren't the 'uga uga beskar I'ma raid it!' Mandalorians he pictured roaring down the gang plank with their beskads waved aloft. Why, these Mandalorians looked as if they didn't intend to eviscerate a single being at all!

Perhaps, oh maybe just, Frinkloof Hicklesbottom, Ambassador of Contruum, was going to make it out of a situation without getting shot in the backside!

Huzzah! Wouldn't his wife be surprised when he returned home without bandages!​

He might even get a second round of Huzzah's!​

"Right!" The Ambassador sipped his stimcaf, it seemed the thing to do, and pushed at the computer table under his hand. "Contruum is a major galactic hub of ship construction, agriculture and education. We have for some time been neutral, with no need to align with any or every faction which popped up on the Galactic chess board. But! That doesn't mean we have no desire for companionship now that the Mandalorian Empire and such prestigious companies could share interest. Yet, what we can offer doesn't mean we automatically do! We want assurances! Assurances that we will be allowed our businesses as they are to stand! Oh yes, and... and tax breaks?" Ending his last few words with a squeak, Hicklesbottom shakily sipped his stimcaf, eyes locked on [member="Kaden Mantis"].

The eyepatch... it wasn't Hicklesbottom's fault for squeaking, not really.

The eyepatch was nailed on. What a fright to see an eye patch nailed in place! What sort of man was he, to take carpentry tools to his own face? For that matter, there was the sour looking pink haired girl, and the blind one with a bandage over his eyes... and he one in the helmet who looked just a bit surly... It occurred to Frinkloof that perhaps... oh maybe... the reason he always got shot in the backside was his way of freezing when something unpleasant reared it's ugly, or in this case biologically unfortunate, head.

"Ahm... questions so far?" The Ambassador squeaked, hiding behind the stimcaf in his hand again... oh dear, and oh my...

... this wasn't decaf!

​

Oh fiddlesticks!​

[member="Gray Raxis"] [member="Kaden Mantis"] [member="Kaine Australis"] [member="Cassiopeia Caranthyr"] [member="Cynthia Raxis"] [member="Fiolette Yvarro"] @Yasha Mantis​

 

[Kaden Farr]

The ambassador continued to stare at him. Kaden just smirked as his eye patch seemed to be the focus of the man's attention. This could be fun. Perhaps if Kaden could keep the man unsettled then Yasha would be able to get what she wanted out of the deal. The rifle which Kaden had strapped on his back was set on the table. The muzzle was pointed directly at the ambassador. Kaden unloaded every blade he had on the table as well. The fact he was well armed was designed to show how he was ready to protect everyone around the table.

His hand rest on Yasha's shoulder. There was no reason for him to introduce himself or join the conversation. Crossing his arms, Kaden stared at the ambassador. The smirk was still glued to his face. This was going to be fun.

He leaned to whisper in Yasha's ear.

"Hicklebottom is afraid of me... use it."

[member="Gray Raxis"]Kaden Mantis [member="Kaine Australis"] [member="Cassiopeia Caranthyr"] [member="Cynthia Raxis"] [member="Fiolette Yvarro"] [member="Yasha Mantis"]

 

[Gray Raxis]

So far everything was running smoothly. The ambassador was friendly, a little too much so which suggested this was more business than politics, and this [member="Fiolette Yvarro"] was friendly enough as well. So far so good. The main problem began when the ambassador turned this into a literal business meeting upon bringing up the concept of taxes. That was always the first thing that came up for a business in a new place. This told Gray that their dealings would certainly be less about what the Mandalorian Empire could do for the people and more what they could do for the businesses. Not the highest of roads for their government to take but not the lowest one either. It was also something they could use to their advantage.

Noting the behavior, Gray walked over and whispered into his daughter's ear, " They want to talk business not politics. They will be afraid of an invasion that could damage their factories and offices, so use that and refuse the tax break thing. Squeeze them with the idea of war hard and make them feel that whatever break and freedom we give them is hard earned. It will set the tone for future dealings with them as well. Think of it like a battle where you have the numbers disadvantage but you want them to think they are. Turn the situation around on them." With that he stepped back and let his daughter take back over. He was use to dealing with these types by now but [member="Yasha Mantis"] and [member="Kaden Mantis"] were not. Time for the two to learn a lesson about business and politics being mixed.

After that Gray just listened to what was going on around them. He wanted to get a sense of life here. He wanted to hear what sounds were made and smell the scents in the air. So far all he got was what you would expect from an industrial system. Metal striking metal, metal being burnt, oils of engineering, and people yelling. It was no different than what he had experienced on places like Yaga Minor. But the occasional smell of flowers and grass told him of the agricultural side of things. Music and singing also drifted in expressing the arts being taught in the schools. It was industry but it was more. They needed the more rather than the industry, even though this ambassador seemed focused on industry. This was going to be a good experience for them all in the end Gray imagined.

[member="Kaine Australis"] [member="Cynthia Raxis"] [member="Cassiopeia Caranthyr"]

 

[Cynthia Solus]

[member="Kaden Mantis"] [member="Kaine Australis"] [member="Yasha Mantis"] [member="Fiolette Yvarro"] [member="Cassiopeia Caranthyr"] [member="Gray Raxis"]

Cynthia couldn't help but find the ambassadors name somewhat amusing. She played around with it in her head till settling on the funnest she could think on Frikoof BottomHicks. It had brought a slight smile to her lips. The first in possibly weeks. She moved closer into the group just as some oaf started asking about booze. She gave him a nudge and a look that mothers gave to children when they was annoyed or mad at them. "Could you be any more rude? At least use your manners for kark sake." she muttered quietly for him to hear it. Cynthia was one of the shortest and others stood in front of her. "What he was meant to say was could you tell us how to get to a place that sells good alcohol please!?" She said raising her voice to reach the mans ears. "And trust me you ain't the only one that wants to get out of here." She muttered once more to the man besides her. The idea of sitting in some dark dismal bar suited her It let her avoid confronting Gray for longer, although they'd have to speak some time, she was clan Raxis and he was alor. at least she could have a drink listen to music and work on the helmet in a little more comfort. "Talking ain't my forte. I assume it ain't yours either."

 

[Yasha Cadera]

“Always do… I’m sure you’re identical in approach. I hope you enjoy this day. It is the beginning of many more.” Yasha knew it was a courageous approach to have such confidence in the potential for a deal with Primo Victorian. It had potential to backfire, but the Mand’alor was willing to take the chance after shaking [member="Fiolette Yvarro"]’s hand. After all, she came all this way for a reason.

Once seated down, Yasha caught the glance in Fiolette’s eye. A smile? The young wife put her hand on her stomach and exhaled. Maybe [member="Shia Kryze"] was right. It was time to celebrate.

The Ambassador began to bumble his way through his pitch, and Yasha’s eyebrow rose. Looking about the room, Yasha nearly laughed at [member="Kaine Australis"]. How drunk had he gotten hours before? The old coot.

Seemed a girl she recognized as [member="Cynthia Raxis"] told Kaine off. The Mand’alor pushed a scowl onto her face as her eyebrow rose further. “Yes, Ambassador. You shall have your associate bring my fellows a proper repast… after all, aren’t we negotiating to be friends?”

Yasha leaned closer to [member="Kaden Mantis"], when he whispered in her ear. She smirked and put her hand on his knee under the table.

Ambassador Frinklehoof Hicklesbottom coughed out an affirmative and wiggled his tie. A protocol droid left, and returned some minutes later with a selection of whiskey, blossom wine and treats.

“Right! Well! Right! Ah…” Frinklehoof cleared his throat and tapped his fingers on the table. “So… about the tax br-“

“No. There will be no tax breaks. I do not wish to broker a peace agreement where Contruum will stay neutral, and reap the benefits of Mandalorian blood spilling to keep its’ fields of plenty. We are here to make the transition of Contruum to the Mandalorian Empire, my Empire, seamless, politically convenient, and non-disruptive to your corporations. We want Contruum to continue being industrious, educated, and agriculturally plentiful.” Yasha leaned forward, her closed fist on the table top. The Ambassador leaned back in his chair, seemingly comforted by the desires of the Mandalorians for peace.

“… with my flag and my banners flying. This is what will happen, while you look at my husband’s disfigured eye, and Australis gets the hair of the vornskyr that bit him. Contruum is going to, gladly, become a member planet of the Mandalorian Empire. You are going to open the shipyards for MandalArms, Primo Victorian, MandalMotors, the Imperial Shipworks, and any Mandalorian or allied company who does us a good turn. By the end of this day, we will have Contruum under our bower. You, Hicklesbottom, get to decide the method of this takeover…” She pushed her fist further toward the middle of the table, and stared at the mealy man’s tiny, beady eyes.

“Hostile, or mutually beneficial. So. Do we continue going around the table speaking of how the companies I bring to your door can help make Contruum an even greater industrial success? Or do I tell the three surly Mandalorians in the room that being wounded, or hungover means they get to take better pot shots?”

Finklehoof winced and pulled his mug of stimcaf to his lips, hand shaking until the stimcaf splashed out. “I… suppose the tax breaks….”

Yasha shook her head gravely. “I assume MandalArms, Westar, RID and Primo Victorian have demands to ask of our new imperial economic centre?”

 

[Gaia Sunaris Cadera]

She couldn't believe that this was the guy that Contruum decided would be their ambassador. She nearly shook her head at his fumbling, mumbling and other oddities. She sipped on a glass of tea that was sitting on the desk near her, content with listening to the negotiations take place.

She listened to his selling points. He was right - ship construction, agriculture, and education. All very good points about Contruum system. He seemed to be going well until he mentioned... Tax breaks? Couldn't he had been a little better negotiator? She kinda felt sorry for Contruum and it's inhabitants - their fates all hinged on this guys decisions. Granted, she fully didn't believe any terms would put any disadvantage on the people of Contruum.

She hid a smile from Hicklesbottom's reaction to what she could only presume was Kaden. Sure, the guy was intimidating and she didn't really know him, but shouldn't Hicklesbottom be prepared for a scary guy in a negotiation?

Her attention turned to Kaine and she almost had to stifle a laugh but gave a playful glare towards him and towards the pink haired girls reaction. Goodness... She did wonder what Raxis & Kaden whispered to Yasha but she could tell it was good advice based off her reaction. It was looking like she had him exactly where she wanted him. He still tried for the tax breaks... But still failed. She took another sip of her tea, ignoring the whiskey that had been placed in front of her.

[member="Yasha Mantis"] | [member="Cynthia Raxis"] | [member="Gray Raxis"] | [member="Kaden Mantis"] | [member="Kaine Australis"]

 

[Fiolette Fortan]

The Fleetwood.
Contruum, Torian City.
Task Force 648; the Nightbloods.

The three ships moved over Contruum Six, "and that looks like a suitable site team four."

"Copy, we're moving along - will scout for bunker locations."

"Good, good, we'll dispatch a science vessel to the atmosphere."

"Thanks," team four replied.

~~~~

When [member="Yasha Mantis"] spoke and laid out her terms and demanded Contruum.

It took Fiolette back, it took her back to the glory days the Sith Empire, the Atrisians, the One Sith and their ilk. When your bark bore the scars of your bite, she sat quietly and observed the Ambassador. A dark haze formed over her mind memories blurred. In her youth she made systems bow before nations, crumble before the feet of their empires and now, now she was all that was left. She and any other surviving member of those nations that now laid in ruins while the birth of newer and more aggressive ones took their places. She noted the whispers of [member="Gray Raxis"] and [member="Kaden Mantis"], she saw the way [member="Kaine Australis"] moved but ignored the loudness of [member="Cynthia Raxis"].

Yes, Fiolette was impressed if only mildly so, it would take more than barking at an Ambassador to earn that.

Still.

The Galidraani's posture didn't waver she sat shoulders square and head held high. Her body language spoke once more to her history, arms out as if she were in the middle of a briefing. Ready to move her pieces onto the battle board and claim what would be hers. An azure gaze pierced the Ambassador's own, blonde hair brushed gently over her shoulder as she shifted in her seat. Fiolette indeed have her own demands, and so she spoke, "Contruum Six." It was a ball of ice and in as far as anyone knew it was generally useless, "as we speak my teams are scouting its very surface, Primo Victorian is very interested in moving a synthetic crystal lab here, secondly, we're looking at holding over a large production yard for ships here on Contruum itself." There were many projects still to roll out and Contruum would be a perfect stepping stone to Onderon and Dxun.

"In fact, we're ready to invest money into older yards and give the newer ones to the Mandalorians."

Fiolette reached into her coat pocket and withdrew a credit stick, the gold brick with black lines. "I think you will find our offer to be quite generous, perhaps, it would make up for the losses on the tax break, mhmm?"

Balance did it help to have money coming from the First Order.

 

[Gray Raxis]

As Gray sat down and listened to how things went, he smiled. His daughter, [member="Yasha Mantis"] , was playing this man now after his advice. The man did not expect to be hardlined by such a young woman who earlier was enjoying herself so much. It came out of no where and from the sounds of the man, he was not reacting well to it at all. He began to wonder what his son-in-law [member="Kaden Mantis"] was thinking about all of it. The man had to be proud of his wife manhandling the situation so well.

The subject of what the owners and reps of the various companies wanted came up. Right away [member="Fiolette Yvarro"] and [member="Kaine Australis"] jumped on the chance to say what they were after. Gray noted that the unknown woman in particular was after more than a little bit. That could be very good if they were an ally or an associate for some time to come. What did he want out of this though for his companies? Both RID and WESTAR could both use some contracts, but which one to go for? He could do both, but it was better to focus on one for now. They made ships, mined materials, and grew foodstuffs. What exactly could they need? Then it hit him as he reflected over the meeting so far.

Gray waited for the others to finish their peace then said, " Contruum will need weapons. From the way you are shaking like a porg in the face of a nexu, you don't have a well armed military. WESTAR can provide you the arms and armor you are lacking, but what is it worth to be safe and secure in your own system to you? What are you willing to pay and provide to my company to see it happen? It better be good because you never know how long you have until someone comes marching in." To make his point he set his gauntleted hand onto the table top. The vibroblade attachment of it shot out and hummed enthusiastically in full view of the ambassador and other reps around the table. It was the only weapon he had brought with him. There was really no other need for more, but it could still get his point across. After all, what did this pompous little businessman turned politician know of hidden weapons? It might just educate him on how sudden and surprising an attack could show up from an unexpected place.

[member="Cynthia Raxis"] [member="Cassiopeia Caranthyr"]