The Meeting Of Giants

[Karacan Rigten]

Mandalore​

[member="Kaine Australis"] | [member="Yasha Mantis"]​

Ferron didn't like leaving his Orbital Array. He felt almost naked, and he felt bad imposing the number of security guards required for him to travel. In fact, it was these reasons Ferron didn't really travel. He had only studied other worlds, living on Kuati for so long, it was truly the only world he knew. Thankfully, it seemed he wouldn't be stepping on Mandalorian soil any time soon, planning to step onboard a Mandalorian Space Station, instead. As it was known, he didn't naturally have distrust or dislike for the Mandalorians. They were going through a troubling time, last he checked, and he didn't know their customs and cultures as well as he would have liked to. Also not being a soldier or warrior he thought it may become insulting for an offworlder to come. Hopefully, that wouldn't be the case.

Some time ago he dispatched couriers to travel around near Mandalorian space, respectfully, to privately get the attention of any Mandalorians; he wanted to see about getting a training program made up for his security personnel, and for a force he planned to create in the future. Mandalorian training, well, Ferron couldn't say he knew much about it, but the way Mandalorians fight, there isn't much to question. Surprisingly, although Ferron shouldn't be so, he caught the attention of what is called the 'Battlemaster,' or someone equivalent to leadership status on Mandalore. From the small investigation he made, it seemed the Mand'alor appointed may not have been of age or experienced enough to fully root themselves in the position, and others were assigned to assist them flow into the position. The Mandalorian that directly contacted Ferron, however, was an even bigger surprise to Ferron. A prime candidate for the training program, someone in Ferrons eyes as an elite or master of the Mandalorian ways. If he could secure a deal with this man, it would go along way to protecting everything he holds dear, and possibly having smaller detachments, and one day being able to see the stars without excessive defense.

Ferron definitely planned to come in all flashy, being aboard one of his new Imperial II β-class Frigates. He would have just loved to show off a Nova-class Courier, but they weren't ready for production yet, he thought having them as an option for Mandalorians but just be what they needed. Not too small to be claustrophopbic, and not too big to be a personal ship for someone; just right. Still, the Imperial β had new materials, a new hull and armor, better weapons. If anyone knew about the old Frigates, they would be able to tell instantly that this model was newer. It was meant to be the flagship of the new β-class ships that would be the icon of the old ships, to bring them up to galactic standards, and she was a beauty. Of course, with safety precautions, she would enter the the system with all weapons completely powered down, but shields up. Just out of precaution.

As they exited hyperspace into the system, the Captain of the ship wasted no time, being right there at the shoulder of his Comms Officers on the bridge, a message was sent out to Mandalore and their station, signalling friendly IFFs and not trying to be sneaky or tricky as they exposed themselves. The necessary comms were made for clearance, and Ferron had left on a Shuttle to join with the station. He and his ten guards would accompany him through the station, while the pilots would stay in the shuttle, perhaps request refueling or something else that pilots do. Only time would tell if this meeting went off without a hitch, or if it would throw a wrench into the gears. Ferron hoped it was the former. "We are guests of these proud people, you understand? Make no formal arguments, you're hear to stand between me and wouldbe attemptors, nothing more, nothing less, do you understand?" Ferron asked his security guards. Personally, he disliked making men and women of families, especially those of Kuati, to fight and possibly die for him. Not only were clones an exciting idea, they were far better an option, in his conscious mind.

 

[Yasha Cadera]

The troubling times for Mandalore were, if Mand’alor Yasha Mantis had anything to say, done. The planet below was a troubled jewel in midst of a grand reconstruction, and as that reconstruction went, the leadership of Mandalore’s Empire was well pleased.

Mand’alor the Hell Wolf stood with her retinue of Yalilyr flanking around the Command Deck. Dressed in her gold and black armour, the 6’2” Epicanthix beauty was quite the sight in the grand sight of Australis’ station. When [member="Kaine Australis"] came to her with the Kuati delegate’s desires, the young Mand’alor knew an opportunity lied in wait to open Mandalore up to more trade dealings and positive encounters.

The Galaxy needed to know Mandalore was open for business, and Australis’ MandalArms was most definitely joining the corporate forces leading the way.

“Magnificent ship. Let’s give [member="Ferron Troste"] a good go, and a beneficial turn, eh Australis?”

[member="Dorn Skirata"]

 

[Karacan Rigten]

[member="Yasha Mantis"] | [member="Kaine Australis"]


Ferron was still nervous, he knew he had a meeting with someone of high stature and rank of the Mandalorian people. Of course knowing near to nothing about them, he hoped they wouldn't be upset by his ignorance if he over stepped by accident. Of course, he never knew he would be meeting the actual leader of the Mandalorian people, the Mand'alor. Ferron was just a simple business man, made famous by the claiming of Kuat Drive Yards. He was no planet ruler, or a leader of people, only a leader of a company; a company he hoped to bring to greatness once again. As he exited the shuttle, he was greeted by an embellished officer, presumably Mandalorian, which he softly greeted and followed to where their meeting would take place. The destination had a great view, but Ferron became even more astounded immediately after seeing said view. He saw some people looking out at his ship which stayed in orbit, and as he continued to enter, they turned and immediately he recognized the faces. Not to say he personally knew them, but the faces of galactic leaders are known far and wide... within the Galaxy.

Ferron stepped up his pace, and so did his guards, trying to be polite and not take up precious time slow-stepping on the deck. Ferron suddenly hesitated as he arrived at the destination he wanted for his footing, enough respectful space between him and the others, almost choking up. He wanted to try to show respect to them in their tongue, but then his brain went to mush as he had second thoughts. Before he realized it, there was an awkward silence, so he spoke up. "Su'cuy!" he said assertively with a horrible accent from stuttering, a phrase he picked up from a lone Mandalorian who he had spoke with for a time on Kuati, an individual he felt was an option for the KDY Cloning before getting word from the great Mandalorian Empire. However, while it may have been too formal, or too personal, Ferron had no clue. As he thought earlier, he only hoped they wouldn't take offense to his ignorance. "I am Ferron Troste," he reached out a hand to shake, "sole owner and proprietor of Kuat Drive Yards. Would I be correct to assume you are the Battlemaster," he nodded at Kaine, then looked over at Yasha, "and you to be the beautiful Mand'alor?" He smiled, trying to show appreciation, only knowing Yasha by face, and Kaine by their short chat over the HoloNet.

 

[Yasha Cadera]

The Yalilyr indeed were beyond reproach to [member="Kaine Australis"]’ potential chiding. the most elite hunters and warriors Mandalore ever produced, the Yalilyr were a remnant from the Death Watch, and Yasha had known most of them her entire life. They now wore her colours, and stood watch with a singular devotion to their assigned protection target.

“Su’cuyar, Alor Troste. Welcome to the Mandalorian Empire. I trust your trip held no challenges you could not defeat.” Yasha gave his hand a firm shake with her armoured gauntlet. The man smelled nervous, and that alone made Yasha’s lips tug up in a smirk. Might and Mercy. The Mandalorian’s new way.

“Australis says you have potential for economic friendship. I will hear you out and put my support to whatever brings plenty and fairness to our Empire and your company. Prove me your concepts, gentlemen, and you have my support.” The poor guy. Mando’s only destroyed enemies… not potential friends. Walking to the table, the young woman eased herself into a seat not because of the armour she wore like second skin, but the small barely noticeable swell of her stomach. Thankfully, the cloak hid her yet unrevealed news from any watchful eyes.

The Mand’alor’s eyes watched the provided feed, producing a grin from her wide, black painted lips. “She’s ready.”

Eyes flickering up to Kaine, then to [member="Ferron Troste"], the young woman could no sooner hide her enthusiasm than she could hide her growing belly in a few more months. “My Hell Wolf… Australis, you appear to have outdone yourself… I cannot wait to test it. Pardon my manners, Alor Troste. Australis has been hiding this surprise from my eyes for some time. Do tell me, what have you and Australis to offer?”

While Yasha was pre-informed of the meeting, she did desire to hear from the KDY Executive’s own lips. The Mand’alor pulled her eyes away from the Hell Wolf only to give deference to their guest. The fact she didn’t stand up and bark out some loud squeals was due to her training in etiquette and poise from her Atrisian Nanny.

 

[Orn'om]

"It looks like a big fish..." Zeke muttered from behind the group low enough not to be heard. Zeke walked up behind the group, the heels of his black shoes clicked and clacked on the durasteel floor. Dressed in his usual black, pressed suit with his beskar MandalMotors pin over his left breast he looked ready for business, not war, though his armor was always ready standing by.

"Kaine! Mand'alor Mantis! Always a pleassure," he said, feigned enthusiasm professionally guised. "And...don't tell me....Mr. Troste correct? Zeke Farthen, MandalMotors CFO, I handle...most of the business now."

[member="Yasha Mantis"] [member="Ferron Troste"] [member="Kaine Australis"]

 

[Karacan Rigten]

[member="Kaine Australis"] | [member="Yasha Mantis"] | [member="Zeke Farthen"]


Everything that had just happened was a little overwhelming. Not the individuals in play, but their actions. Ferron was gracious and appreciative of their greetings, and wanted to continue speaking with the Mand'alor, but Kaine would steal their attention and he had no idea what was to come after Kaine asked him to follow. On the table was shown to be a new class of ship, something obviously built to symbolize the Mand'alor in some way. It was big, bigger than anything Kuat Drive Yards to even start hull construction on at this time. Even though in the past they have made monstrous dreadnoughts of galactic proportions, they were nowhere near close to the kind of manpower they had back in the day, and back then they were fielded by other armies. However, there was more to come. Ferron had no idea MandalMotors was going to be here, not to imply he didn't want them here, but he didn't feel it made his image any better. A great, large company, whose loyalties lied with the Mandalorians, could easily field and produce any ship the Mandalorian Empire wanted... Ferron had little in the way of bargaining chips now. He was going to be asking for a lot, and in comparison, putting forth so little.

Ferron hesitantly greeted Zeke and shook his hand if offered, not out of dislike or disrespect, but he was taken aback and a little in shock by the big wigs he was around. He felt like he was being shown up, just a little. "Yes, Troste.... sole owner... and proprietor of Kuat Drive Yards." Ferron came in here with the expectations that he would be under the spotlight, expected to show something for his efforts and payment for his requests, however it seemed Kaine had the light for his massively beautiful ship, and Zeke, for his prestigious and great company. He would stay silent in the background and clasp his wrist to stay out of the way while the Mandalorians got reacquainted with each other.

 

[Yasha Cadera]

“Mr. [member="Zeke Farthen"], Alor Troste of Kuat Drive Yards, and I’d say if you’ve forgotten who we are by now, Australis has been doing his job wrong.” The Mand’alor looked to the business suit clad man, a twinge in her eyebrow. She looked to [member="Ferron Troste"] with the intent to continue the conversation, when [member="Kaine Australis"] brought forth his pageantry and glamour.

The Hell Wolf was one heck of a life day present.

“Oh, we will be shaking down my vessel… ooohohohoh yes.” Yasha’s amber eyes sparkled with the sight of the massive cruiser veering into Mandalorian airspace. “… after all of us are satisfied. We have a guest, Gentleman. One I intend to make comfortable in our airspace by the end of this meeting. Understood?”

Kaine started his pledge, and Yasha continued to sit with her cloak draped over one arm and the entirety of her body. She tapped at the table with a crush gaunt clad finger, watching for the reactions of the men in conference.

“I can reiterate and guarantee what Australis is promising. Working with Mandalore, means being a friend. We come through for our friends. We protect those we consider ours. This goes through successfully, we can guarantee a certain amount of consistent protection whenever you need it. All you need to do is ask. My first question for you three is what sort of technologies and ships you can build us. I am also assuming it will lead to the creation of Mandalorian jobs. Is that a fair assessment of the situation, Alor Troste?”

 

[Karacan Rigten]

[member="Kaine Australis"] | [member="Yasha Mantis"]

Ferron cleared his throat when the Mand'alor directed her attention and words to him, stepping forward to speak himself. "Yes, I am here to offer a special Imperial Star Destroyer class of ships for the Mandalorians. But I have to stress something," Ferron took a breath, prepared for his next words to be insulting or unpolite in front of the Mand'alor. However, she was not his leader. He respected her a great deal, no matter her experience, her age, or her gender. She was respected by an entire planet of people, and more, and deserves such respect even from an outsider. But this is the way KDY works now. "Throughout our Negotiations, I am willing to support you and the Mandalorian Empire in anyway I can. However, at the moment, I am offering," he rummaged into his pocket, slowly, for a small hologram projector, and activating it, "the Manda'yaim-class Star Destroyer. Right now, I'm building the prototype, a larger variant I call the Pride of Manda'yaim." He deactivated the projector and put it away, "but at this moment, that's all I can truly offer. The Pride of Manda'yaim is a gift to Mandalore, due to the conversation, which I hope is an agreement, that was made with Kaine." He nodded to Yasha and Kaine, "Battlemaster Kaine... I sought out for a Mandalorian to create a training program, which would be used to train Clones I plan to create in the future. Only to protect KDY assets, and nothing more. However, it seemed Kaine was also available to be my Prime Clone, my clone template. Now, let me get back to why I can't exactly offer more..."

Ferron looked disappointed in himself. This was the one part of KDY he didn't like announcing. Everyone is typically so respectful, and Mandalorians aren't known for courtesy. Not to say they are incapable, they are a great culture, but Ferron felt they were being kind to him even though he was an outsider. He put his hands up, slowly and defensively. "Kuat Drive Yards no longer holds loyalties to larger organizations. And the way the galaxy shook recently from the Mandalorian Empire, I still consider you to be something of a galactic conqueror. In time, perhaps, that will change. But it will take time. If things truly have settled, and you have truly joined together into a unifying force for Mandalore, and not against the galaxy, perhaps with time we will come around. Now, just because I can't hold loyalty with you doesn't mean I will betray you. KDY's history has shown that in the past, allying with larger organizations, well, bit them in the ass in the end. Nor does that mean I think you will betray us. I won't ally with your enemies. But I hope you understand and don't take offense, but that is our stance now. It's not business, and it's not personal. There's many reason why we don't. Which is why I think you may find better opportunities with MandalMotors, I'm sorry we couldn't team up for something bigger. And another problem, is the Manda'yaim Star Destroyer... I'm handing over the designs to the Manda'yaim after the prototype, temporarily, in good faith of the Mandalorian Empire. But once we have the manpower, and the shipyards in better condition, I hope you will understand when I request to be the sole manufacturer of the ship. I'm sorry if I have disrespected you, Mand'alore."

 

[Orn'om]

Zeke gritted his teeth at the display. Sure, both ships were big, but it was obvious that they were both designs that were too expensive to be practical, unlike the Kandosii-Type IV and the Ash'amur II that currently filled the navy. He caught himself in an awkward position. On one hand, it was good that the Mando'ade were willing to shell out so much cash for ships he personally considered inferior, but it also was beginning to bruise his pride that another manufacturer held the eye of the Mandalorians' navy. For decades MandalMotors had hardly been challenged and even when it was, it always proved itself the most loyal and cost effective.

Now as he looked at the 'Hell Wolf'-class floating outside in the black of space and the Manda'yaim-class star destroyer on display in the hologram he felt an itch to do better. An itch he would have to keep in check.

Reluctantly Zeke grumbled, "And of course you'll have full support from MandalMotors in the mass production of the Manda'yaim-class Star Destroyer."

[member="Kaine Australis"] [member="Ferron Troste"] [member="Yasha Mantis"]

 

[Yasha Cadera]

Was Kuat Drive Yards’ official position unexpected after the rocky months of the Mandalorian Empire’s ascension? They offered an Imperial Star Destroyer, a beautifully designed ship of the line. All this was payment for [member="Kaine Australis"]’ work, and the abilities they all had today. As it was, Yasha chuckled from her belly as Troste put up his argument.

“I do not seek the exclusivity of your company, Troste. Just of this design. It makes little sense for your business to serve only one customer, when there are many factions and governments who can use your wares. If you so easily were willing to fall under some… exclusive long-term contract I would wonder about your acumen in the field of business. Why do you think I would somehow fall to a base violence because an intergalactic company wishes to sell to everyone and not a select few? If I want true exclusivity, I have MandalArms, MandalMotors, the Imperial Shipworks. No, I wanted to open talks with you because of your company’s diligence in design, and because of the opportunity you presented to Australis. You wish for clones, for troops who display the well desired traits of the Mando’ade for your own protection… and you call me a galactic conquerer to my face and expect no rebuttal? I caution you against confusion, I am not Mand’alor the Undying. Neither am I an invertebrate. Mandalorians only attack threats. You can consider me all you like. Don’t cross us, and you will be safe from any harm. We are good to our friends, loving to our families, and unapologetic to our enemies. You are a friend. Hold to that, and despite your ‘reservations’, you will be protected.”

The Mand’alor was not safe, in the way a pacifist ruler was safe, but she was fair. The Mand’alor gladly led her armies into the battles Mandalore needed to survive, and yet desired for the Empire to expand into the arts, cultural unity, and a long overdue sense of safety for the inhabitants within it.

There was much to prove, yet ultimately the only people Yasha felt the need to prove anything to, were Mandalorians. “Show me your manpower, and your shipyards in their better conditions, and I will act in good faith. Yes, we can get behind that program, Australis. Farthen, thank you for your cooperation. Alor Troste, is there anything else? Or can Farthen and I take a look at my new flagship… I want his opinion.”

[member="Zeke Farthen"] [member="Kaine Australis"] [member="Ferron Troste"]​

 

[Karacan Rigten]

[member="Yasha Mantis"] | [member="Zeke Farthen"] | [member="Kaine Australis"]


Ferron shook his head very slightly when Yasha mentioned the galactic conqueror phrase he made, but he kept silent and listened until she was finished. "Please, Mand'alor, I meant no disrespect. I understand completely that you've decided upon a new journey, and I wholeheartedly welcome it to open more doors for us. I truly hope you will become a great leader, hopefully one of Mandalores greatest leaders of this era. But please understand, I don't wish to insult you. Just sometimes, things are never as we wish they were. And please, take the floor, speak about your new mighty ship," he continued, looking over to Kaine, reaching out to make a handshake, "just as long as I have confirmation from your Battlemaster and your approval for what I need." Ferron showed his emotions, the way he felt, to be true. He had no reason to lie to the Mand'alor and didn't want to. He held some real, personal respect for the Mand'alor. For the Mandalorians to choose someone so young, and then ultimately agree with her in the end, showed Yasha could be something great that Ferron didn't know. He only hoped she could unite her people, and make a new, better reputation for the people of Manda'yaim.

 

[Yasha Cadera]

“Set those worries aside, I am fully aware of the work which must be done to secure Mandalore’s future reputation from our past. It’s alright, I am not offended. Just… proving I am not weak. There. That’s it then! Kuat and Mandalore have a solid deal of mutual benefit, and a new avenue to explore upon further development. What a success. Australis, you’ve done well. Troste, thank you for coming, and Farthen, thank you for your promise of support.” While her body rested hidden in armour, and Yasha’s face was one of reserve, the Mand’alor smiled and offered her hand for a firm shake.

“The galaxy is a fallible place, full of decisions with little possibility for victories on all sides, or comfort for those of a congenial nature. We can but attempt to improve our times, as we were given. Today is a victory for all, and that should be celebrated. Have a safe trip back. Your clone force will be as tenacious as Australis, I wager. The universe is all the better for it… and if you need us… call. Thank you gentlemen, that will be all.”

Yasha shook [member="Ferron Troste"]’s hand, and [member="Zeke Farthen"]’s and stood, clapping her gauntlets together and rubbing them. “This ship was a surprise gift, Troste! I had no idea until Australis petitioned I come to his station… he knows the way to my heart is through a well engineered ship, my mother was an engineer and CEO of the Imperial Shipworks... mmmmmm I want to see it!” In the end, a bit of Yasha’s young exuberance peeked through the Mantle of reserved command. Her lips pressed together, heels rising up and down as she looked outward to the massive arced ship. She battled her own youthful enthusiasm as she looked at [member="Kaine Australis"].

“Can we see it now?”