When Our Perils Are Past | First Order & Galactic Alliance

[Asharad Graush]

A'sharad remained seated throughout the entire procession. His armour was heavy, not that he couldn't move in it, but once he was seated, he had no intention of rising again unless absolutely necessary. Whether it was in defense of the Grand Moff - She was the only one worth protecting, the Ren were capable of protecting themselves, and based off of the hostility that radiated off of [member="Carlyle Rausgeber"] and the thinly veiled ambitions of the Security Minister, [member="Dante Calgar"], the two would likely have been asking to be threatened. Yet, the Galactic Alliance hadn't brought anyone of exceeding importance, other than [member="Jamie Pyne"], though her position as Queen translated to being of little actual threat to the Sith Lord. Not that he couldn't sense the Force radiating from her being and likely being worthy of some respect in the realm of combat, but she had come for peace. And if what his own sources in the First Order Security Bureau's were true, then the Queen had been captive not too long ago... Coming back.

Either it was foolish, or worthy of respect.

Although he bore no DataPad to read off of, the information within his Heads Up Display did that for him, not that it was necessary. He had done his information on the scheduled guests. [member="Jaius Sovv"] had been present at Kaeshana, had made demands of the Grand Moff, and had totted what little power he had in an attempt to seem in command. Evidently, with the casualty lists, it hadn't turned out well, not that him, as a General at the time would've allowed his Legion to surrender any ground. It had been a brutal battle on the ground below, merely falling back from the planet after so many lives lost would've been a betrayal to his soldiers, and it was likely they'd feel the same.

Then there was a [member="Taeli Raaf"], who he knew little if anything about. New Jedi Order representative, who seemed to have a mouth on her based on the attempt of whispering across such a distance to one at the end of the table from A'sharad in the form of the Master of Ren, [member="Samka Derith"] Another anomaly, but another one who was no threat to him. They fought on the same side, for now, for who knew what the future would hold, that said, being a mystery left much to the imagination.

There'd come a day they'll interact more, he imagined, likely, it wouldn't be today.

Somewhere nearby was [member="Valessia Creed"], the Foreign Minister. A single seat away from him was [member="Natasi Fortan"], the Grand Moff.

He would begin.

"Welcome to the site of your first failure as an Armed Force." The vocoder of the suit of armour deepening, distorting and reforming it into one that was cold, one that would've inspired more fear than actual loyalty, though they were one in the same to the Sith Lord - There had yet to be anyone to show him otherwise in or out of his career as Supreme Commander, or a proclaimed Lord of the Sith. "I imagine we are not blessed with the presence of the brains behind the assault on First Order assets and personnel on this planet?" The stygian helmet rotated back and forth. Could they feel his eyes on them? It didn't matter, he'd keep talking. "Since your government has been so obsessed with this subject since its occurrence, the one responsible for the crucifixions was a loosely affiliated Dark Jedi, unchained and unashamed in his actions." Of course he knew that Darth Veles was a Sith Lord, not unlike himself, but dubbing him as one would also be incriminating to himself, despite there being no actual proof of the Supreme Commander doing anything, but, following the standard rules of engagement. Yet, should one of them truly know the title of the Mon Calamari, then they would them both to be Sith. Which also came with the fact that Sith truly owed no loyalty to each other, as evidenced by A'sharad's throwing the alien under the proverbial bus right off the bat. "He's avoided Imperial Justice," a pause. "A Mon Calamari known as Avreet, though he parades around under a false persona known as Veles." There was a glance down the line to the Minister of Security. Perhaps the FOSB knew more about the whereabouts of the Alien Criminal, but A'sharad had already come to the end of that path.

Phrik crushgaunts rose onto the table, metal fingers intertwining with each other as the Sith Lord paused.

"And now to the purpose of this meeting: We propose," the way he spoke the word suggesting anything but a proposal. "An official proclamation of cessation of armed combat and withdrawal of all official and unofficial assets from First Order Space." There was no illusion as to where the disturbances along the Order's border planets originated from. Whether loyalists to the ideology of the Galactic Alliance, or Alliance Operatives, here was their opportunity to retrieve them before they suffered Imperial Justice.

There could've been a better way to go about it, one that if more thought had gone into it, could've spun his proposal better, more eloquently, but the Sith Lord was much better at painting a masterpiece with a crimson bladed lightsabre than talking politics. In this scenario, he had opted for a similar approach as he would on the battlefield.

Straight to the point.

[member="Madlyn Sol"], [member="Claire Organa"], [member="Ara Ren"]

 

[Claire Organa]

The voice of [member="Asharad Graush"] could be heard quite clearly by all in the room. Claire suddenly felt cold as if the sound of his voice had drive warmth from the room. Something else his voice it seemed to lack compassion, it held back on anger for certain it seemed. His words could be tight and forthright. He knew what he wanted to say, what he expected, his delivery was succinct the words of someone who had seen war and what it did. But it did not betray whether he enjoyed it or simply participated to pass the time.

The First Order wanted anything that remotely sounded or acted like Galactic Alliance out of their space. It was a way to say if you spies, get them out, if there are sympathizers move them, and if you left anything behind collect it. And that all hostile actions would cease. For however this lasted peace, even a peace filled with tension was better than the loss of life that was associated with war.

She couldn't help but feel anxious would the Alliance agree to such easy terms, or was there more to be said by any delegate. Were there additional conditions? Would they discuss blockades? Or prisoner exchange? Or rebuilding anything along the shared borders? This was an opportunity as well. But all of it still relied upon them and their willingness to agree.

Claire could feel the tension in her shoulders as light as the fabric was that made up her clothing it felt clingy as if it were trying to squeeze her breath from her.

She watched.

[member="Madlyn Sol"] [member="Ara Ren"] [member="Jamie Pyne"] [member="Natasi Fortan"] [member="Valessia Creed"] [member="Taeli Raaf"] [member="Samka Derith"] [member="Jaius Sovv"] [member="Dante Calgar"] and anyone I missed. My apologies.

 

[Natasi Fortan]

Natasi's eyebrows furrowed at [member="Asharad Graush"]'s opening salvo -- as unusual and unfitting as the term was for a diplomatic setting, she could think of no better fit. Her dark eyes narrowed somewhat at the Supreme Commander, but she remained silent for the moment. He would bring the big guns, and the Alliance would no doubt respond in kind. Natasi needed to keep herself reserved for the moment, so that she didn't spend the credibility and capital she possessed until she had to. She suspected that these negotiations would conclude with her facing off with Jaius Sovv, mano a mano (so to speak).

For the time being, she would observe, chiming in where it was necessary -- like now: "This is not the only Dark Side cultist that has escaped justice. The atrocities committed by your allies in the Tygaran Alliance have not escaped notice. On this very planet, they used civilians as human shields, grouping them around offensive weapons emplacements. The First Order would never knowingly fire on civilian populations -- a courtesy that was not extended to our civilian contractors on Kaeshana or aboard the FIV Kuragin at Anoat. We would like reparations for these civilians and an official condemnation of Siobhan Kerrigan and her band of murderous terrorists. We would also like a commitment that those responsible for the bombardment of the First Order's civilian operators on Kaeshana, and those involved in the destruction of the Kuragin will stand trial. In exchange we offer reparations for those civilians killed in the orbital bombardment at Skor II."

The Grand Moff inclined her head, meeting the beady little eyes of [member="Jaius Sovv"] firmly. "If the Galactic Alliance will not see justice done in these two instances, you may rest assured that I will."

[member="Madlyn Sol"] | [member="Ara Ren"] | [member="Jamie Pyne"] | [member="Valessia Creed"] | [member="Taeli Raaf"] | [member="Samka Derith"] | [member="Dante Calgar"] | [member="Claire Organa"] | [member="Carlyle Rausgeber"]​

 

[Alleycat]

"Likewise, Admiral Rausgeber."

Forest green orbs picked up on the fact [member="Carlyle Rausgeber"] was here more in an observational manner rather than in an official capacity as he was dressed down from his usual grand uniform befitting his rank and position among the military hierarchy, and had his own datapad ready. The man looked polished either way, and did not surprise her that the navy officer would take such a keen interest in the proceedings on a personal level not only professional with all that had been won and lost during the war with the Galactic Alliance.

"My work has been behind the scenes, yes, though the major credit goes to the diplomatic principles for getting us here today," the Counsellor answered humbly. His inquiry of her own thoughts on the matter brought a thoughtful look.

"There is always hope, Admiral," she offered limitedly with a small smile not giving anything away as he was digging for inside information on the particulars discussed so far in closed door sessions that the diplomatic aide was not privy to give "As for myself... I am an Eriaduan. That should speak for itself my personal feelings on the whole matter of those before us."

And with that said, the opposing faction's delegation began arriving and opening statements given by both sides. Let the gamesmanship begin...

[member="Natasi Fortan"] | [member="Ara Ren"] | [member="Jamie Pyne"] | [member="Valessia Creed"] | [member="Taeli Raaf"] | [member="Samka Derith"] | [member="Dante Calgar"] | [member="Claire Organa"]

 

[Samka Derith]

"Her..."

Ara Ren's voice echoed quietly inside of Samka's head, little more than a whisper enigmatic to most but the meaning clear to the young Ren. The Jedi taking a seat opposite must be the one Ara clashed with before, the one she believed walked a darker path than was clear on the surface. Ara's reports made for interesting reading even if the Master was not yet entirely convinced of the logic, she trusted her subordinate's judgement but more evidence was required. A Jedi acting aggressively was nothing new in the current galactic climate where the so-called defenders of peace had done nought but seek war against the Sith, The First Order or whatever other selectively chosen group of Dark Force users they deemed heretical that particular week. Where once the Jedi Order of old had strictly prohibited the use of aggressive techniques like Electric Judgement or even Dark Sided powers such as Mechu-deru, the current Jedi flouted them as easily as a Push or Mind Trick. In that respect, Samka deemed the woman in front of her typical of the current generation of Jedi. However, since the young Ren had recently established contact with the being known as Connor Harrison, perhaps it was worth pursuing to see if he could help over turn a few stones.

"I see she recovered nicely from Bespin," the Jedi whispered across to her, with a polite nod and smile which Samka understood to be every bit as much a mask as the faceless black helmet worn by the Ren.

"Indeed she has," Samka nodded, her hushed voice distorted into a sinister robotic tone almost beyond recognition. "A pity so many of those you brought with you to Bespin did not. I thought the Alliance's final retreat from Cloud City was most chaotic. Did you take part in it or had you fled before that?" Her head cocked in apparent curiosity, awaiting the answer for a seemingly innocent question.

Samka reclined backwards into her chair upon hearing [member="Asharad Graush"] talk. Unlike [member="Dante Calgar"], [member="Valessia Creed"] and apparently Naboo's [member="Jamie Pyne"], the young Ren understood the Supreme Commander to be a man with no want and little tolerance of the meaningless wordy introductions and ramblings of peace. The use of such speeches were only to be regurgitated as quotes by history students a half century from now. If Graush was speaking then negotiations had begun.

The terms laid out by the Supreme Commander expected and obvious. Those that followed by the Grand Moff, [member="Natasi Fortan"], more unique to their conflict and far more exciting for it. Hidden beneath the mask, a smirk crept onto the Ren's face as she awaited the response by the Alliance delegation.

[member="Carlyle Rausgeber"] | [member="Madlyn Sol"] | [member="Claire Organa"] | [member="Jaius Sovv"] | [member="Taeli Raaf"]​

 

[RIP Carlyle Rausgeber]

Carlyle nodded thoughtfully as he listened to the diplomat's thoughts. He paused, he interpreted her last statement as in agreement with his own sentiments, that this peace was a lie. He however would not press her on the matter, as Queen of Naboo, Jamie Pyne entered the diplomatic arena. "We'll see if this peace manages to hold." Carlyle sharply replied, "For your contributions, and career advancement, I hope it does." He then turned away, silencing himself to watch as the Alliance delegation dragged itself in. The anger raging within him had subsided some what. But his cold eyes continued to glare at those entering.

Carlyle found the Queen attractive, in the conventional sense. Had he'd been younger, and perhaps more foolish, he'd have tried to curry her favour. But he wasn't that man anymore. He lamented how young she was. All of Naboo's queens had been young. But the fact she was so youthful pained him. She seemed out of her depth, almost. The other entrants to the arena were soldiers, politicians and jedi, not some poorly qualified queen. The speech she spoke rang rather hollowly with the officer. The respect and sympathy she had garnered, evaporated.

She was just another sick politician, like Sovv, armed with hollow platitudes and words to express them. There had been no acceptance on her part. No attempt to reconcile the fact the First Order had won. The Alliance had lost. Rausgeber anticipated grovelling, apologies and begging for a peace. Instead, these self-righteous simpletons opted to try and act is if they were equals.

The same could be said for Foreign Minister Creed's speech. Although, and perhaps hypocritically, Carlyle managed to put aside the glares for her. From what he understood, she had just been married, she was probably anticipating a child of some sort. That was how he rationalised her behaviour. He didn't see it so much as weakness, but more so as a misguided attempt to save the future for her child.

Taeli Raaf experienced the brunt of Carlyle's derision. A Jedi. A Jedi's business was not here. Diplomacy was the business of military men, politicians (even if he did grudgingly admit that), and old men and women. Not some kind of sycophant whose vague feelings of good and evil which had evidently dictated foreign policy and seen to it the deaths of millions. He watched the woman whisper something to someone opposite her. Rausgeber cared little for what it was. To Carlyle, Master Raaf's intrusion only further cemented his feelings on this matter. That the Galactic Alliance had learned nothing. They were still as dogmatic about their ideology as ever, and that their ignorance would lead to further conflict.

Rausgeber grew cold when he heard the Supreme Commander give his address. Although Carlyle knew they were on the same side, the Supreme Commander terrified him. His delivery was however something Carlyle wished to reciprocate. He watched as the effect of his powerful presence was almost instantaneously felt across the room. If only he could have this effect on unruly ensigns and his enemies. Still, he concurred whole heartedly with the demands made. Although from his knowledge, there was very little activity from the SIS operating within First Imperial territory, he could imagine the FOSB having its hands full with insurgents and other criminal elements supplied by the intelligence service.

Grand Moff Fortan was another who could scare him. And when he heard her speak, he jumped in his chair a bit. However, her speech was also succinct. Now was the time for reparations. He was emboldened by the demand of denunciation of the incestuous Firemane cult. However, he felt that they should have pushed further. Requesting the cessation of systems. But Carlyle’s thoughts were stunted. Upon being reminded of the civilian death toll, Carlyle's mind wandered.

All Carlyle could think back to was the reaction his brother Halford and his nephew Ignatius had when they learned that the fate of the matriarch of that happy family. Halford's wife and Ignatius' mother, Mathilda had been murdered on the radioactive world. She'd been a humanitarian who'd volunteered to work on Kaeshana as a field nurse. From the reports of the stormtroopers who'd been at her camp, who'd recovered what had remained after the bombs stopped. The top half of her torso was found beneath a durasteel girder, cradling the cold remains of a three year old Eldorai child.

Rausgeber let that feeling of sorrow fester momentarily. He remembered the funeral so well out of the thousands performed in the months following Kaeshana. The fleet admiral could feel his chest pumping up and down. His breaths shortening. He closed his eyes, and tried to regain his composure. He tried to look busy, starring down at his datapad, and gently dragging a tip of his stylus up and down the screen.

He tried to clear the memories from his mind. Bring himself back to the clear and present job at hand. He didn't want to show a moment of weakness in front of the Alliance’s officials. But he couldn't help it. The raw emotion he felt, watching his younger brother's reaction to to his wife's death was too strong. The wounds from informing the family of Ranulph Gudderian of their fathers death. The cries and long nights spent trying to reassure his nephew. Time seemed to sit still momentarily as Rausgeber recollected the trauma experienced by his loved ones. It was only stopped when he heard an anxious voice.

Carlyle’s head rose slowly. His eyes strained from suppressing the need to cry. The anger which he had felt now returned, in a big way. Primal adrenaline pumped through his veins. If he were any lesser man, like the Supreme Commander, he'd have most likely beaten the translator to death. "Fleet Admiral." Carlyle corrected him, his tone sharpened, and his face curled into a scowl.

He would not be short changed by this twerp or the abomination he translated for. His glare clearly exhibited unimpressed with the intrusion. "Though judging by your composure, you're not the admiral." He added drily, "The thing which is spastically shaking it's hands everywhere is." It struck him as quite peculiar. Not so much the attempt at idle chatter, but more so how the alien came to be of such prestigious rank. How does one become an admiral, when every order must be translated?

He paused and listened to the nervous naval officers translation. His scowl somehow became more severe. More empty platitudes from hollow officials. "[SIZE=10.5pt]You forfeit [/SIZE]any right to call yourself any ally of mine when your colleagues attacked us over Kaeshana." He coolly replied, possibly to allow the officer more time to translate, or to collect his thoughts. No one would know. "Your governments days are numbered." Carlyle informed the translator.

"This treaty will not be an end to hostilities, mark my words. Because your Alliance have been exposed, as frauds, and liars." He spat, his eyes seemingly becoming larger, and more bulbous. Veins began to strain themselves against his taut, pale skin, and he began to lean forward. “Your alliance may now be happy that this conflict is over. But over time, they will become restless.” He pointedly scowled, “Hollow politicians like Sovv, promised their protection. Their safety.”

“And what safety is there now?” He asked, feeling himself becoming emboldened. His tone wasn’t loud enough to interrupt the other speakers in the room, but it was confrontational. “The prestigious armies of the Galactic Alliance were thoroughly defeated. You could defeat narcissistic Sith, but you couldn’t wipe us out.” He pointed at his chest, “And when they realise this, when the populace realise this, they will leave your alliance by droves. And when you begin to suppress them, like you did on Atrisia,” He paused, and let a sardonic smirk purse his lips, “Then hundreds of star systems will slip through your fingers.”

"And when the time comes for your government to flounder desperately with a deficit of political capital. You will come to us. Come to us, to reassure the masses, by fighting another war. One to curry favour with the blindly nationalistic, the opportunistic, the stupid who swallow your propaganda, and your corporate masters.” He looked right into the eyes of the alien admiral, “And when that day comes. The day where you attack us. Where your ships enter our borders. That will be where we will finish what you started." He informed the duo.

"There will come a day where your fleets are scattered, and your armies torn apart by men and women wearing white, shining plastoid. Your Jedi, have left, betraying you, and leaving you for the wolves. And when that day comes, I will be the one to wrap the noose around you[SIZE=10.5pt]r necks. Letting you watch as your legacy dies.[/SIZE]" Carlyle let the words hang in the air, before leaning back in his seat. He reached for a glass of water, and slowly drank it. His reddening face, returned to its usual complexion.

"I do have a question." He said, having allowed his rant to finish. His tone was a little more conciliatory. "Why are you here? Why not have Morrow, or the schizophrenic Twi'lek here?" He asked, referring to the incompetent leaders of both Therapy Command and Phoenix Fleet. "Were they executed?" He asked. It had of course been their tactical genius who had lost the Alliance the Anoat Campaign, and arguably, more broadly, the whole war. "Or did they do the honourable thing and swallow a blaster barrel?" He asked, his tone may have been calmer now, but it still carried that dangerous edge.

[member="Samka Derith"] | [member="Claire Organa"] | [member="Jaius Sovv"] | [member="Taeli Raaf"] | [member="Madlyn Sol"] | [member="Dante Calgar"] | [member="Valessia Creed"] | [member="Jamie Pyne"] | [member="Asharad Graush"] | [member="Natasi Fortan"] | [member="Ara Ren"]

 

[Jamie Pyne]

Not thirty seconds into the sit down and already three officials were barking demands as if this were a Tatooine stand-off of hostages and spice rather than civil discussion. With a varying degree of aggressiveness to their collective tones, Jamie listened to each one from where she sat, gentle cerulean eyes bouncing from [member="Natasi Fortan"], to [member="Asharad Graush"], to [member="Carlyle Rausgeber"], and briefly, [member="Dante Calgar"]. Despite their damning condescension and harsh attitudes mere moments into discussion, Jamie maintained her quiet, soft demeanor. Two spoke of withdrawals of forces and both trials and executions for supposed war crimes committed. Another spoke of reparations. But it was none of these things that drew her attention more than the dialog of the Fleet Admiral, whose composure appeared to be edging on the brink of breakdown. In Jamie's mind, the man was a danger to these talks, in need of a therapist far more than a seat at the table, and certainly not a place of power in his current state of mental stability. Her eyes remained fixed on the man for perhaps too long, staring with unblinking eyes until his eruption of word vomit had been quelled by the need to take a breath and collect himself. In an almost recovering daze the blonde snapped out of her transfixed glare and took a breath just as the admiral looked momentarily in her direction. Jamie didn't attempt to look as though she wasn't staring, what was the point? Their eyes met, blue against green, yet the only gesture the young queen could offer was a slow shake of her head.

The momentary exchange between [member="Taeli Raaf"] and two of the Ren had not escaped her either, and though she could not quite hear the musings passed, it was clear to the girl that there was a history between them that may further interfere with the civility of the discussion if they could not keep themselves in check. Despite being the youngest face in the room, thus far it seemed she had been the one most concerned with actually seeking a peace between the two governing bodies, rather than dragging the opposing side through the mud in an explosive beating of the chest or making passive, foreboding threats. At present this seemed less devoted towards discussions of peace and more terms of surrender offered to an enemy who had been crippled beyond the ability to wage war. Unless that perspective changed, little would be accomplished here, and days from now the two superpowers would be back at each other's throats. Judging by the words cast, and the expressions and appearances of some present, perhaps that was in fact their preference. It was those who were not open to the concept of peace without brutality that were hardest to reach, sometimes impossible. For a moment Jamie feared of those present, that may have been the majority. If so, their cause was already lost.

"While I recognize that this is neither a pleasant experience for those present, nor a time where those gathered seek to make friends with those across from them, it would be in everyone's interests to try and keep their own personal feelings in check throughout this time and extend a metaphorical hand across the aisle instead. Demanding executions, making threats, and losing sight of the purpose for which we are gathered is neither conducive nor productive to the purpose of this dialog." The queen's eyes settled in particular on Admiral Rausgeber. "For the sake of this meeting I would please ask that if you are unable to do so, to kindly excuse yourself." War was an atrocity by name. It was a crime by its very nature against life. Yet it had been waged for eons, and would likely continue until the last sentient drew its final breath, before silence once again enveloped the galaxy. Yet whatever Jamie could do to stymie that tide, she would dedicate herself to doing so. "One of your own," She began, her eyes shifting from the admiral to the congregation of Ren present, "Beseeched I come here, that Sieger himself sought peace with the Alliance. During my time as his captive, our conversation, however brief, led him to ask me what I would do, were I in his position." Momentarily her attention returned to the others seated at the table. "I confessed that I would see every man and woman returned to their families, and the bloodshed stopped." Her words then were as true as they were now, hence the reason she had agreed to seeing this meeting through. "And while I cannot assume to know the intricacies of your government, I can only surmise that at least in part, why we stand here today stems from an extension of that conversation. So I hope that despite any preconceived theories regarding my intentions, age, or words thus far that I may implore those of us here to see things from a perspective of mutual cooperation and begin to construct a new foundation from which further diplomatic blocks may be built on in the future."

Hopefully this train doesn't derail before it leaves the station...​

​

The woman sat forward, eyes scanning about the room as she tapped a number of times on the datapad she carried. "As for reparations, a total of reasonable damages valuated at present should be tallied, to include verifiable civilian infrastructure, transport, and goods. No military expenses will be included on behalf of either side, as the cost of war is an expense and consequence paid by both parties." Asking for a military power to be given the credits to rebuild their strength was a fools errand. "Demands regarding the executions of any involved party will be disregarded. Requests may be made for extradition in the face of war crimes on behalf of either the First Order or the Galactic Alliance, however will need to be handled on a case by case basis, subject to irrefutable evidence and the capacity for which either government has to apprehend said requested individuals. Furthermore, prisoners of war should be reunited with their families and released upon the conclusion of this meeting without delay." Then was the issue regarding the removal of assets from sovereign space held by the First Order and the Alliance. "Any operations in progress for or against the Alliance, and for or against the First Order are to cease immediately, assets withdrawn, and borders respected. Those in violation following the signing of any agreement will be held responsible for their actions and if arrested, will stand trial for violation of terms of agreement."

Jamie looked to [member="Jaius Sovv"], in the event that the President had further comments to add.

[member="Claire Organa"] | [member="Samka Derith"] | [member="Madlyn Sol"] | [member="Valessia Creed"] | [member="Ara Ren"]

 

[Ara Zambrano]

The half-Hapan side of her heritage was both a gift and a curse. Beauty stymied by a lack of low-light vision that plagued one half of her bloodline, a disadvantage unaltered by a history of life in the ever-present glow of LED and plasma of the Coruscant underbelly. In exchange, Ara’s hearing was unparalleled.

The conversation between the Jedi and the Master of Ren, quiet as it was, was heard as clearly as if the Knight sat beside the two. A wicked smile bloomed behind the mask, the laughter that threatened to bubble over withheld only as strains of another conversation interrupted, followed closely by the opening demands of the First Order delegation.

Slowly, the knight turned her attention away from the pair at the lower table, mask moving to light on the others seated at the raised circular table, separate from the dignitaries below. Emerald eyes raked over the figure of Admiral Rausgeber with disdain, the flames of bloodlust and anger within stoked by the emotion dripping off the older man as he spoke to Fleet Admiral of the Galactic Alliance and his translator. Crimson rolled over her irises as power rose to the surface, strengthened by the tides of anger and rage that flowed over her skin, palpable to any of those of the Darkside persuasion in the vicinity.

Canting her head to the side, Ara’s eyelids narrowed in disappointment, even as her fingers tapped against the smooth surface of the table, an attempt to resist the siren call of the darkness swirling within. Unlike [member="Carlyle Rausgeber"] , she would not add fuel to the Alliance’s fire, as much as she might share his opinions on their inevitable destruction at the hands of the Order. The difference, between the soldier and herself, was that her desire to see to their destruction came from the simple urge to rend and destroy, the target meaning little. His was a personal grudge that should hold no sway here in this attempt at peace.

Flicking her hand lightly, a small tendril of power answered her silent call, wrapping around the Admiral’s throat with the precision of a noose. A soft smile curled up the corners of her mouth as another small movement of her hand tightened the invisible threads. With the cessation of air to his lungs, the Knight trusted she had bought them a few moments of blessed silence, even as the young queen of Naboo requested his silence or removal. [member="Samka Derith"] might berate the older woman for her decision to step in and silence him of her own accord, but such punishment would be dealt with later. For now, she would be content with reminding Rausgeber their role in the proceedings.

You will control yourself and your emotions, Admiral.

The silky voice whispered through his mind, soft, alluring, and utterly unyielding. Her gaze remained trained on the man, piercing through the opaque visor of the mask she wore, no question left as to whom was pulling the strings as the grip tightened once again.

If you fail to do so, I will do it for you. I trust we have an understanding?

Letting the grip linger until the maroon shades of his face were from a sufficient flow of oxygen rather than anger, Ara released her hold on the tender muscles of the man’s throat, blood singing with the thrill of such a small action.

[member="Claire Organa"] | [member="Jaius Sovv"] | [member="Taeli Raaf"] | [member="Madlyn Sol"] | [member="Dante Calgar"] | [member="Valessia Creed"] | [member="Jamie Pyne"] | [member="Asharad Graush"] | [member="Natasi Fortan"]​

 

[Jaius Sovv]

Admiral Hexyra handled the tirade from the Imperial command officer with a measure of grace uncharacteristic of the normally almost ritualistically competitive Vaemath species. An eyebrow raised as the first threats were made, but other than that the alien showed no signs of outrage. Of course, even if Rausgeber had been interested in studying the Admiral's reaction, the lack of a mouth made his body language somewhat more difficult to read, but his eyes twinkled with something akin to bemusement. He offered no protest, and made no attempt at any point to interrupt. When the human was finished, he began signing once more to his military attache, who had seemingly not been so fortunate in his resolve even simply standing adjacent to the target of such ire.

"M...my s-sincerest, ahem. My sincerest apologies, F-Fleet Admiral," the attache stuttered out as he translated Hexyra's sign, obviously deeply uncomfortable at being forced to refocus Rausgeber's attention on him, "I meant no disrespect in my ignorance. Your views on today's proceedings are...likewise illuminating."

Dancing fingers signed back and forth at one another as two conversed.

Your assessment.

You were right, Hexyra admitted, He is completely delusional. Are they all this way?

Uncertain, the attache signed back, Rausgeber is a true believer, one of the Supreme Leader's fanatics. It remains to be seen how deep the indoctrination goes.

"As far as why myself and not a veteran of the Ison theater," the attache continued aloud, passing off their conversation as more translation, "as a fellow officer I am certain you understand I am not privy to why such decisions are made, but if I had to speculate-"

The attache trailed off as the Fleet Admiral's features suddenly changed. Though discreet enough not to cause a scene among the wider audience, both Hexyra and his aide were standing close enough to the man to notice a marked change in his facial expression and demeanor. Glancing back and forth at each other out of the corner of their eyes nervously, both of the Alliance representatives gave each other a look as if to ask if either of them were responsible. His sense of honor overriding even his personal distaste of the man, the Admiral shifted his head around to look for the best person to notify that the Imperial was in need of medical attention.

What is happening? Hexyra signed at last, Is he having some sort of fit?

Unclear, the attache replied, outwardly looking even more panicked than the Vaemath beside him, Take no action. Lets see how this plays out.

The Admiral's eyes darted about suddenly as if hunting for an invisible intruder.

Someone is speaking to him mentally, he signed to the attache.

Are you sure?

I'm a telepath, of course I'm sure, the alien signed frustratedly.

Can you listen in? the aide asked eagerly.

Hexyra shook his head slightly, signing back, Can't tell where its coming from, either.


President Sovv, for his own part, had also remained silent throughout the proceedings up until that point. Not unfocused or disinterested, his wrinkled brow turning to make eye contact with each Imperial representative as they made the voices heard. When the young emissary from Naboo chose to speak, he nodded throughout in the characteristic manner of his species when expressing agreement, giving his hovercane a few wobbling taps as if to punctuate statements he found particularly compelling.

"Could it be that the youngest among us here today, is also the wisest?" the President of the Sullustan Council began, finally, "I must confess, despite my personal convictions, that some of the words spoken here already today have risen me to ire. If it were not for the Queen of Naboo, I might have lost sight of the purpose that has driven us both here today. You speak of reparations, and outrages. The Alliance will help you shoulder the cost of this war, because it is right, but we will not play this game of who shall assume blame for what. The Tygarans may very well be guilty of the crimes you claim, and if so I promise on behalf of the Triumvirate that we will do everything within our power to see justice done."

"As far as the so called perpetrators of the Kuragin, if the First Order truly demands someone for trial, then you may have me. I am here as a representative of the Triumvirate Council, and it was the Council's decision to target the station. The Alliance cannot be held accountable for the Imperial strategic decision to place a sector's logistical command and control operations directly on top of a major civilian population center. You seek justice from the Tygarans, will we see equal justice from those who designed your Gallidran-class stations? If you desire someone in Alliance colors to execute, then you may execute me. The leadership of the Alliance takes responsibility for our actions, we don't expect those who serve their government and their nation faithfully and without malice to fall on their swords to avoid blame. You accuse us of a disproportional response, but each target we struck in our counter-assault was a military target. A command and control center, an isolated military base, and an industrial refinery. Will we receive justice from the architects of the assault on Skor, or would that hit too close to home for some in this room?"

"You may not believe me, but I mean this with the utmost respect. Queen Pyne is right, we don't like each other. Though it pains me to admit it, I do not believe a time will come when we will ever like each other. We each have grievances, many of them just ones, but I will say this. As the Queen said, any requests from the First Order for extradition will be reviewed on a case by case basis, we will need incontrovertible proof of war crimes if we are to hand one of our own over for what I can only assume would be summary execution. But for our own part, the Alliance will seek no extradition, and will release all Imperial citizens we have not already regardless of their record. It is our belief that all wars are crimes, and although I understand it may not be a sentiment shared throughout this room, we hope you will nonetheless take this as a sign of good faith from our people."

"I am certain there are also those here who see this as a necessary evil," Jaius continued, "An armistice as temporary as the cease fire which has held up to this point, to be abandoned as soon as is convenient or profitable. Without admonishment, I would remind those too, why they are here. They are here because for some, Kaeshana was inevitable. It simply came too soon. If we were to continue this conflict, any victory would prove far too costly for either side. We would be effectively baring our necks to what is quickly becoming a very crowded galaxy. I wish I could convince those of this inclination of their folly, that millions need not perish just to prove which side in this room is right and which is wrong. I do not believe I can."

"I can only hope, that we can convince you that millions need not perish today, and go from there."


[member="Taeli Raaf"] | [member="Jamie Pyne"] | [member="Claire Organa"] | [member="Natasi Fortan"] | [member="Dante Calgar"] | [member="Valessia Creed"] | [member="Carlyle Rausgeber"] | [member="Asharad Graush"] | [member="Madlyn Sol"] | [member="Samka Derith"] | [member="Ara Ren"]

 

[Taeli Raaf]

"Considering the state of your disciples' training, I was able to stay until the end," she replied just as quietly to [member="Samka Derith"], a small polite smile still in place. "I think you need to teach them the difference between what blue lightning means and what green lightning means." It was a small barb, poking at the Ren girl and boy's lack of understanding during their fight at Hilikan of what was actual Force Lightning and what was Electric Judgment. As it looked like the speeches and demands section was about to begin, she added one more thing, "Make sure to temper that zealousness a little as well, it will just lead to more of your disciples coming back well done."

With that said, and the speeches by [member="Asharad Graush"], [member="Jamie Pyne"], [member="Natasi Fortan"], and [member="Jaius Sovv"] essentially preventing their conversation continuing at this point until the reception... or fight broke out, she settled back to listen. Plenty of anger, especially from that Admiral [member="Carlyle Rausgeber"], but that was the general feeling in the room. If she was quite honest with herself, the room and the individuals in the delegations were essentially ticking time bombs. Even Sovv was proposing that if they wanted to execute someone, he would volunteer to take the sword to the neck or however they decided to kill the Sullustan. That was unbelievably naive of him to think that these people, especially their Supreme Commander, might not take up the offer as they couldn't go after Siobhan and Firemane at the moment.

Tempers needed to be calmed now, or this entire process was likely to implode on itself. In either scenario, it wasn't a total loss to her. But, she did have a part to play. She wondered how long it would be until an issue that the Grand Marshal had charged her with negotiating came about.

[member="Valessia Creed"] [member="Dante Calgar"] [member="Madlyn Sol"] [member="Ara Ren"] [member="Claire Organa"]

 

[Asharad Graush]

Words went back and forth, [member="Jamie Pyne"] spoke of similar wants as what was already mentioned by the First Order. Lack of actual response to their own proposals, but making their own at the very same time. The Sith Lord made a face behind his helmet, and he stuck his tongue into his cheek as he kept his mouth shut, at least the following moments of the Queen of Naboo's statement, for a voice was being raised behind him... And it happened to be the voice of one that was a nuisance; [member="Carlyle Rausgeber"].

The man had never actually done anything that warranted being executed on the spot, at least in the eyes of the Supreme Commander. not even this outburst... Especially in an establishment such as this, though it did tempt the Sith Lord to... Devolve the entire situation and order the murder of the entire Alliance delegation. Ship used as transportation and all. They had the necessary ships in orbit to shoot them to pieces before the ship that had brought them to Kaeshana could even plot a hyperspace jump. Yet, it had come to an end, nevertheless, though it did trigger A'sharad's head swiveling about to spot the source of the muted voice, and he laid eyes on [member="Ara Ren"].

There was a blink as it appeared to lessen, and his head started to come back around before that helmet's visor was focused on the Master of Ren to his side.

As much use as the Jedi across the aisle.

Unfortunately, there was no usage of telepathy, as his head came back around to settle on [member="Jaius Sovv"] as he spoke.

The man wants to die.

His right hand, albeit cybernetic, though encased in a gauntlet clenched at the idea of wringing the life of the Sullustan. In his peripherals, he caught sight of the two other Moffs, [member="Dante Calgar"] and [member="Valessia Creed"]. Shame no one seemed to care about the crucifixions. Though, it was neither here nor there, the Sith Lord Veles was long gone, where? A'sharad hadn't the faintest clue, and nor did he particular care. It was just one more illusion that the Alliance had that had been cut at the root before it had been used to waste more time to come to terms. However, it was curious to hear the potential submission of the Sullustan, to the First Order, or rather, to him. A'sharad saw the Sullustan's 'you may execute me' as him speaking directly to the Sith Lord, almost as if the President could sense the Sith Lord wanting to do it already.

Of course, despite his own characteristics, birth, instilled doctrines of murder and war, he didn't represent himself here, he was representing the First Order. To continue pursuing pointless mockeries of the Alliance's military or diplomats would paint a poor picture of the Supreme Commander, he had come to realize. There was a low hum that emanated from the Sith Lord, as if he were thinking deeply on the matter.

"I accept - Your surrender to Imperial custody that is." The black helmet swept around the room, to those gathered. "After we come to a conclusion for these discussions." That should keep the more reserved occupants in line, at least for the moment. Before the battle, so to speak had begun, he was already switching tactics. He had been raised as a highborn, a fact that had rarely if ever come to light. There was another humming sound from the armoured being before he continued his address. "In regards to Skor however..." There was a clearing of his throat. His first mission as Supreme Commander, overlooking multiple branches of the First Order's military, and even the Ren, in the form of the very same masked Ren that stood somewhere behind the Master of Ren to the side of the Supreme Commander.

"You had the architect of the Skor Incident." The Sith Lord stopped, allowed the Alliance delegation to take that in. Connor Harrison was the name of the man who called it the orbital strike, Graush knew, they all did, at least the ones on the Imperial side of the discussions. "Connor Harrison. Former Jedi Master of the Silver Jedi Order." A'sharad didn't care. He held no allegiance to the man, didn't even know him. "Intelligence reports say he was being transferred to the Silver Jedi and made his escape somewhere between there." A pause. "Our surveillance and intelligence operatives are gifted in tracking, to say the least." The man served no purpose to the First Order, and so, he would be sacrificed, though uncharacteristically of the Sith Lord, there would be no direct ridiculing of the Alliance's security. That ridicule came with the information they were being given. "Additionally, I'm sure you're aware of what happened to the crew of the ship that performed the bombardment - Your operatives at the industrial refinery seemed to enjoy replaying it for a population it was already broadcasted to."

Had he not been in that suit of armour, he would've given a shrug that showcased his indifference. He didn't need to mock them. Their decisions, choices, and conducts had done that enough. Hit too close to home indeed...

To further the diplomatic talks, he'd cease his back and forth to allow [member="Natasi Fortan"] to address the terms. She was much better suited in... Calming the situation, though taking into account her past with the President, it was unlikely it would do much.

[member="Taeli Raaf"]

 

[Natasi Fortan]

Natasi observed [member="Jamie Pyne"]'s words, her eyebrows lofting a little at the way she seemed to provide instructions to the group at large. She wasn't sure, exactly, what the young Queen of Naboo was yammering on about, and she cast a sidelong glance at [member="Dante Calgar"], lips turning down at the edges to communicate her bewilderment. When she had finished, Natasi turned her attention to [member="Jaius Sovv"] and had to suppress an eyeroll at his pontifications.

"This is all well and good, Mr. President, but we do need to be specific as well as realistic. Arresting you may see justice done, but the First Order is not interested in creating a martyr for the Galactic Alliance cause. Besides, I find it difficult to believe that you authorized the destruction of a hybrid civilian station. Operations on it, perhaps, but its destruction?" She shook her head. "At any rate, we have images from the security system of the station that identify certain individuals. Your government's cooperation in identifying these terrorists and extraditing them to the First Order to stand trial for their crimes would be much appreciated." She produced a datachip and slid it across the table to Sovv. "I'm sure you would have no objections to turning over those responsible for the deaths of hundreds of innocent civilians whose only sin was attempting to go about their lives on the Kuragin."

The Grand Moff inclined her head. "If you are so eager to prove that the Galactic Alliance takes responsibility for its actions -- all evidence, thus far, to the contrary -- I look forward to your public apology for the murders of members of the First Order science and humanitarian aid mission on Kaeshana. As you well know, the First Order has already publicly atoned for Skor II -- but if it would loosen your tongue where the sins of the Alliance are concerned, I am prepared to offer a public apology and, as I pointed out before Her Majesty interrupted, reparations. Shall we include these matters in a joint press conference?" she asked, picking up her pen and preparing to jot notes on her notepad.

"And while we're on the subject -- the First Order never sought to engage with the Galactic Alliance. All we want -- all we have ever wanted -- is to be left to our affairs and build a strong, stable government for the citizens of our nation. The Galactic Alliance has pushed and prodded and needled and cajoled us to the point that it would have been unacceptably irresponsible to continue ignoring the threat. If it helps you, in this discussion, to think of us as equally guilty for purposes of this discussion, to keep hold of what little is left of the Alliance's moral authority, then so be it. But you must know that history will reflect -- if not the truth, then that which is closer to the truth than your narrative. But this is all neither here, nor there. As a show of good faith, we are willing to return to Alliance custody the prisoners of war captured from the battlefield -- excluding, of course, those who we have probable cause to suspect are guilty of war crimes. You can be assured that those retained by the First Order will be given a free and fair trial; those acquitted will be returned to the Alliance unharmed."

She spread her hands, looking across the table at Sovv with a pleasant smile. "Thoughts?"

[member="Taeli Raaf"] | [member="Jamie Pyne"] | [member="Claire Organa"] | [member="Dante Calgar"] | [member="Valessia Creed"] | [member="Carlyle Rausgeber"] | [member="Asharad Graush"] | [member="Madlyn Sol"] | [member="Ara Ren"] | [member="Samka Derith"] | [member="Jaius Sovv"]

 

[Alleycat]

From the First Order's side of the negotiations, for the most part, the diplomatic principles at the table were following the predefined script they had gone over prior to coming to Kaeshana. All possible bargaining positions had been thoroughly discussed and proven/disproven to get what the Imperials wanted, no deserved. The one wild card they had not counted on was the FO's Fleet Admiral, [member="Carlyle Rausgeber"]. His impassioned speech or rant from where one stood on the matter was most riveting to say the least.

As Madlyn sat next to Admiral Rausgeber, the diplomatic aide could feel the temperature rising in the space between them at the circular table as he started to become angry from the words being spoken by the Galactic Alliance. The man was like a super nova going to explode. She so wanted to elbow the man in the ribs, but a public display like that could derail the talks. The red-haired counsellor dared to subtly place her hand upon his upper leg under the table top yet only to pull it back before doing so. Rausgeber by that time had already jumped head first into the deep end. There was no throwing him a life preserver now... He'd have to sink or swim in the self-made whirlpool.

But then, something strange happened to him. It was as if, no... the admiral was being invisibly choked?! Forest green orbs perused around the gallery to find one of the Knights of Ren, who had accompanied the Imperial delegation, gazing their way with the tinted mask staring not at her particularly more so past Madlyn to him. Mads busied herself in pouring a glass of water from the clear pitcher provided nearby, then set the glass in front of the admiral in case he needed to give his throat relief.... If he survived that long. She knew the Force could be used in all sorts of fashion as [member="Asharad Graush"] had given her a small introduction into its wonders after the Battle for Mustafar had been won.

[member="Natasi Fortan"] [member="Valessia Creed"] [member="Dante Calgar"] [member="Samka Derith"] [member="Ara Ren"]​

[member="Jaius Sovv"] [member="Jamie Pyne"] [member="Taeli Raaf"]​

 

[Jaius Sovv]

Perhaps he had miscalculated.

President Sovv had been hoping to shame them, that in accepting his grand overture they would be admitting to shirking their own responsibilities by assigning the soldiers under them to firing squads, soldiers whose only crimes had been carrying out their orders in faithful service to their Empire. Evidently, the First Order delegation did not appear to see it that way, or perhaps it was they simply did not care. Either way, although it perhaps shouldn't have, the Supreme Commander's eager acceptance of the Alliance diplomat into First Order custody caught him by surprise. And yet, to his credit, he showed no outward sign of it. He had meant every word he had said, and even if he was now forced to process that he had unwittingly walked right into his own death sentence, he would not give them the satisfaction of losing his resolve.

For as far as the Alliance was concerned, Imperial custody and pending execution may as well have been synonymous. Like many within the Federation's leadership, Jaius had a low opinion of what passed for justice within the First Order. There had been none under the tyranny of the One Sith, and could they expect any less from this new breed of conquerors, who allowed Sith Lords to serve openly among their ranks? The Sullustan struggled to focus on the words of Grand Moff Fortan, who was to her credit doing her best to ease tensions within the room and pull them back from the brink they were so rapidly approaching. And yet despite all his training, he could not help but gaze at the Supreme Commander with narrowed eyes as Natasi spoke.

Jaius could not claim to hold no fear of death, he was not a soldier, but he did not fear Graush. Fear was the only thing that gave the Sith power, true power. Without it, they were less than nothing. More natural disaster than men, they consumed everything and everyone around them and called it glorious. Seeking freedom through pain, they unwittingly built their own prisons brick by brick, until the person there had once been inside was locked away forever, and only tormented husks remained. Graush could lunge across the room at this very moment and cut him down, it was true, and Jaius would be powerless to stop him. But that was not true power, and his would not be true death. He may not have the gift, but Sovv was one with the Force, and the force was with him. To the Sith, it was merely a tool. A pitiful state, the Sullustan had to remind himself.

"You claim to have no desire to make martyrs," the Sullustan spoke at last when the Grand Moff had finished, now giving her his undivided attention, "And yet that is what I fear you would accomplish, whether you have me shot or hauled off to a cage. It is obvious to us by now that to the First Order, might makes right, and so I would not expect my people to be satisfied by Imperial decree as to my ultimate fate. But if this is indeed the will of your Supreme Leader, if a sacrifice is necessary to prove the First Order's...moral authority, then I would have no other stand in my place."

"I am certain the footage contained on these datachips are authentic, that you do indeed have proof of the presence of Alliance military personnel on Kuragin," the President glanced down at the offered intelligence on the table between them as he spoke, "What we dispute, is the station's designation as a...hybrid civilian station. Its significance as a port to civilian traffic is undeniable, but what is equally undeniable is that a significant portion of the Kuragin's function was to serve as a command and control installation for all Imperial naval logistics in the sector. You are correct, Grand Moff, that I myself did not personally give the order, but at the time it was perceived by the Triumvirate as the best possible of choices for the preservation of life on both sides if we were to successfully establish a foothold within the Anoat sector."

"You speak of the crime of Skor, and while I accept the First Order's explanation of a rogue agent's responsibility for the orbital bombardment, this is not the offense to which I was referring. I find it somewhat disingenuous that you can claim this conflict solely the result of the Alliance's belligerence, when with the exception of the tragedy that occurred at Kaeshana, each target the Alliance has selected has been a military target, and only then as a direct reaction to the First Order's continued violation of sovereign Alliance territories. While Asmeru and Barkhesh were mere outposts, the native peoples of Skor had pledged themselves to the Federation's cause of their own free will. What justice was served by coming to their system in force?"

Jaius paused suddenly, as if he had meant to continue, but then remembered himself, "Even now, we seek only to defend ourselves. I say to you again, the First Order's past offenses, perceived or otherwise, are forgiven. Though I would caution you, Grand Moff, to mind your own house. First Veles, and now Harrison, that is two acolytes in service to the Darkside who have now betrayed you. Who is to be next, I wonder?" The President stared openly at Supreme Commander Graush, "You may have every right to question my prejudices and motivations, but I warn you all the same. The Sith are not your friends, and no matter what they might do or say, their only true loyalty is ultimately to themselves. If any one of them could kill Sieger himself to advance their own aims, they would do so without hesitation. I cannot speak to this Order of Ren, perhaps they are different. Perhaps not, I am not a religious scholar. But should this pattern continue, the Alliance's tolerance will wane on this matter. If you continue to appoint Sith to positions of power and influence within your military hierarchy, can you truly claim no responsibility when they inevitably wreak havoc?"

"I will cooperate with you in this joint statement, Grand Moff," the President pressed on before his words could cause any further outburst, "I believe that we are only enemies because we have decided to be, but we can also choose not to be. Right here, in this room, even if it does not last forever. But the Alliance will not allow your Security Bureau carte blanche authority to persecute our soldiers for serving their country. Any extradition must be based command decisions that take into account the individual's understanding of the situation at the time."


[member="Taeli Raaf"] | [member="Jamie Pyne"] | [member="Claire Organa"] | [member="Natasi Fortan"] | [member="Dante Calgar"] | [member="Valessia Creed"] | [member="Carlyle Rausgeber"] | [member="Asharad Graush"] | [member="Madlyn Sol"] | [member="Samka Derith"] | [member="Ara Ren"]

 

[Progflaw99]

It was with piqued interest the Minister of Security listened, silently absorbing all the words being said. It seemed progression had stalled in place of political shuffling - how quaint. Dante was no politician, and it showed in the manner with which he approached most political offerings, though to say he wasn't adept would be incorrect. Moff Calgar was a quick learner, and given his background both official and unofficial, he was just as much a threat as the rest of them. Gently he tapped his fingers against his leg beneath the table. What he wouldn't do for a concealed blaster pistol, or even a thin blade. It wasn't that the man was inherently violent, however he had replayed the scenarios over and over in his head a million times. There was no hate there, no overwhelming rage - merely a cold and calculating edge to his thoughts. The man raised an eyebrow as the Sullustan before them spoke, his words mincing politics and morality as if they were a delicacy to be consumed. On that they may have agreed, strangely enough - though Dante would more likely have compared it to a steak to be torn into. But just like any meal, one had to pace themselves to fully appreciate it.

Dante waited patiently, like a hawk waiting for the right moment to enter its dive, intent on capturing its prey. When the moment presented itself, he interjected - his hands coming up from beneath the table and resting on the datapad before him.

"President Sovv - if you'll pardon my interruption. As with any conflict, truth is often the first casualty." His words hung for a moment before he continued. "Let's not wallow in the past, but instead, look to the future. I have collected a series of official reports and recordings over the last few months. Unclassified documentation of course, of the conflicts on Kaeshana, Mustafar, Bespin, Skor II - I've been busy Mr. President. Perhaps with these your intelligence agency might be able to uncover the truth behind some of our claims. That being said, I have included a full dossier of subjects identified by our intelligence agency which we intend to pursue extradition for."​

​

Sliding the datapad over to the Sullustan, he took a moment to eye each and every one of the members on the other side of the table. The data he had provided them with would give nothing away, he'd made sure of that personally. It would allow them to identify persons of interest and develop a reasonably accurate timeline, but anything remotely pertinent to operations or procedures had been meticulously removed. It was interesting to Moff Calgar, that the Sullustan had mentioned the Security Bureau. A wry smirk crossed his features then, his eyes looking directly into the President's with a cold chill.

"As for the Bureau... Your soldiers will be released, as the Grand Moff has already stated. However..." Dante cleared his throat. "...those identified as spies and saboteurs relinquish the rights afforded to those of uniformed services should they be caught, or convicted. They will have fair trial - and a fitting sentence should they be convicted, of that I assure you."​

​

​

[member="Jaius Sovv"] | [member="Jamie Pyne"] | [member="Taeli Raaf"]​

[member="Natasi Fortan"] | [member="Asharad Graush"] | [member="Samka Derith"]​

 

[Jamie Pyne]

Jamie looked quizzically towards Moff Fortan, uncertain as to where she acquired the idea that Jamie had interrupted in any way. The irony behind the phrase struck her like a runaway landspeeder. It seemed the Grand Moff had somehow forgotten about, or chose not to acknowledge the abhorrent ramblings and threatening outburst pouring from the lips of one of her top admirals not more than two meters away. Perhaps this was a common enough occurrence that the woman had become so accustomed to the man's delirious tirades that she simply tuned him out. There were people like that she had dealt with herself, so perhaps that was the confusion. The blonde simply shook her head and listened to the words President Sovv spoke, though finding no further comfort in the speech presented.

Give yourself over to First Order incarceration? Jamie knew that would not solve matters, likely complicate them further. And though the Supreme Commander seemed ecstatic to have an enemy for which to extract his dark aggression on, it was Fortan that interjected, speaking the words that she didn't necessarily phrase in the way Jamie wanted, but nonetheless provided the outcome the blonde had been aiming for regardless. In the end, Jamie wanted the men and women from both sides released, hostilities ended, and for civilian reparations made. Apologies she knew well were nothing more than lip service to the other, and thus would account for little. It could only be assumed that the only reason it was so readily agreed to was that all parties involved knew it meant nothing more than the air expended to speak those words.

"Jaius, if I may." She said quietly, "Our council regarding their choice of advisors in the Sith will hardly be considered. I advise we simply concern ourselves with ratifying terms rather than convincing them of our belief in their misjudgement." They could point fingers at the Sith surrounding them, Asharad in particular, yet it was the First Order's bed, and if they chose to lay in it, it was their decision. If thousands of years of evidence to the contrary could not persuade them otherwise, the voices of enemies across the table would certainly carry no weight. "I concur with Minister Calgar, that we should not wallow in the past, but look towards the horizon. Allow the Alliance time to review the documents, datachips, and recordings. Present the joint statement, let us all begin to mend the tear between these two sides. We needn't be friends, but we can all cooperate for a better future without the need for, or the perception of martyrs."

[member="Jaius Sovv"] | [member="Dante Calgar"] | [member="Natasi Fortan"] | [member="Asharad Graush"] | [member="Samka Derith"] | [member="Claire Organa"] | [member="Valessia Creed"] | [member="Carlyle Rausgeber"] | [member="Madlyn Sol"] | [member="Ara Ren"] | [member="Taeli Raaf"]​

 

[Valessia Brentioch]

In all her days, Valessia had sworn she had heard it all.

She was wrong.

Even now the Galactic Alliance's President had the audacity to preach, preach to a group who had not only repelled his military forces once but twice, and then succeeded in removing the Alliance from the Mustafar Sector. Valessia was content to allow Natasi and Dante to then steer their conversation back to the entire reason that they were here. They were here to strike an accord however temporary they may be, they were here because neither government wanted this to go on. For they had read the history of the past, nothing good ever came from war, and naturally, the Minister sided the Grand Moff. Her eyes shifted from one speaker to the next as she continued to jot down notes, and dictate the meeting. She was sure they would reconvene later to discuss this back at the Palace, but for now, the time to preach, and debate philosophies and styles of governance had to end.

"Indeed," she finally said, "so let us begin by hearing your terms, mhmm?" Her question was posed directly to the young Queen of Naboo, still a little rough around the edges. If her eavesdropping was of any evidence. The older woman watched the blonde's movements, studied, really. As a younger woman, Valessia had spent time with many unsavory characters and she had learned that everyone had a tell. So too, would she study the Queen and look for how she acted. "Once you've said your piece, we'll allow time for [member="Claire Organa"] to organize the information before we present any objections or amendments." She paused allowing the Alliance Delegation time to process before she continued, "from there I hope that those gathered here will be able to come to an agreement."

"Now, I will return the floor back to her majesty, Queen Pyne of Naboo."


[member="Dante Calgar"] | [member="Natasi Fortan"] | [member="Jaius Sovv"] |[member="Asharad Graush"] | [member="Samka Derith"] | [member="Carlyle Rausgeber"] | [member="Madlyn Sol"] | [member="Ara Ren"] | [member="Jamie Pyne"] | [member="Taeli Raaf"]

 

[Natasi Fortan]

Natasi leaned forward and glanced down the table at her Foreign Minister, eyes hard and shining, like polished topazes. "Forgive me, Minister Creed," she said, straightening. She pressed her hands to the surface of the table and pushed herself up to stand. "But I think we should take some time to clear the air. Suites have been set aside for your use, with refreshments and secure communications facilities; please see my private secretary for the keys." The Grand Moff gestured to Clémence, who stood up immediately and bowed her head. "Shall we reconvene in -- say, an hour? Mr. President," she said, inclining her head to lock eyes with [member="Jaius Sovv"]. "I wonder if you might walk with me briefly."

A few minutes later, the Grand Moff and the Sullustan president were walking along the outer balcony, protected from the environment by an environmental shield. Natasi clasped her hands behind her back, dark eyes thoughtful as they walked in silence together. Finally, she cleared her throat and said: "Perhaps involving a larger party was a mistake," she said, her dark eyes glinting humorously. "Lots of posturing, lots of... speechifying. It's as if people think they'll be on the holovision. But we should really be speaking in simple truths."

She paused, finally stopping, and turned towards Sovv. "Here are some simple truths: first, neither of us are innocent in this fight. Second, you -- your government -- started this war, and third: you lost it.The Naboo Queen's posturing notwithstanding, your position is not strong. I feel we have been more than generous in the terms we've offered in terms of reparations. Perhaps you feel that the embarrassment inherent in agreeing to our terms is an unacceptable humiliation. Another simple truth: the time for such concerns was before the Alliance started this war."

Natasi took a breath and locked eyes with the Sullustan. "My last simple truth, for now: I want to end this war." Dark eyes stared into the glossy black orbs belonging to the Sullustan president. "Do you?"

[member="Jaius Sovv"] | [member="Valessia Creed"] | [member="Dante Calgar"] | [member="Asharad Graush"] | [member="Samka Derith"] | [member="Carlyle Rausgeber"] | [member="Madlyn Sol"] | [member="Ara Ren"] | [member="Jamie Pyne"] | [member="Taeli Raaf"] | [member="Claire Organa"]​

 

[Claire Organa]

The Naboo Queen was quite elegant in her words expressing her concerns in a non confrontational voice that Claire admired. A skill to have the words you need at the moment you need them and express them with such clarity. A skill she was still acquiring. Perhaps some lessons on Naboo would help.

There were other voices equally compelling in their convictions and thoughts and yet not for a moment did Claire ever think they would eliminate one another in this very room. Their passions were high, their beliefs strong, they were people who viewed the galaxy differently and it had cost them in the conflicts they had waged upon one another. Claire felt the sadness again. She tilted her head down continuing to work at what they were discussing.

Claire was taking notes she put the names at the top, and in alphabetical order in case anyone asked. She hoped that she captured everything as it came and went. She did pause when she heard [member="Madlyn Sol"] say she was an Eriaduan. She knew about Eriadu everyone had to know about Eriadu.

As she was tapping the screen before her she heard her name, the sound of it caught her off guard. She looked up visibly shocked for a moment but then realized that they were nearing their agreement they would want to make sure everything was captured correctly and documented for their signature. She nodded to [member="Valessia Creed"] that she understood what was expected. Claire played with how the document would look.

She couldn't help but hear the conviction in Natasi voice she spoke it was similar to the tone she had used months earlier when she asked her to do this. Claire had never seen her in this capacity, in her roll as Moff, always she was just her one client that wanted to dress in a box, she preferred there be nothing to indicate a softness to her. In here though it was clear Natasi was in her element and in here one couldn't afford to show any softness.

​

2. The apprehension of the Mon Calmari known as Avreet, also known as Veles.
3. That an official condemnation of Siobhan Kerrigan be issued regarding her actions on Kaeshana

[SIZE=26pt]Proclamation of Cease Fire[/SIZE]​

[SIZE=14pt]The First Order and The Galactic Alliance[/SIZE]​

​

[SIZE=14pt]Hereby set down and agree to the following terms for a cease fire between their two factions:[/SIZE]

[SIZE=14pt]1. [/SIZE][SIZE=14pt]A proclamation will be issued jointly to cease all armed combat.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=14pt]2. [/SIZE][SIZE=14pt]Each agree to withdraw all assets, official and unofficial from the systems under the influence of the other.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=14pt]3. [/SIZE][SIZE=14pt]Reparations will be made based upon an assessment of the civilian infrastructure to include transportation and goods, the value set at current market prices. [/SIZE]
[SIZE=14pt]4. [/SIZE][SIZE=14pt]There will be no reparations in regards to military losses.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=14pt]5. [/SIZE][SIZE=14pt]Release of all prisoners of war immediately[/SIZE]
[SIZE=14pt]6. [/SIZE][SIZE=14pt]Each faction will receive requests for extradition of war criminals, and will be granted on a case by case basis. [/SIZE]
[SIZE=14pt]a. [/SIZE][SIZE=14pt]This is also dependent upon evidence and the ability to capture and detain said criminals.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=14pt]7. [/SIZE][SIZE=14pt]Operations currently in progress against either the First Order or the Galactic Alliance will cease upon the signing of this agreement.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=14pt]8. Violators of this agreement will be arrested and stand trial[/SIZE]

[member="Natasi Fortan"] [member="Jaius Sovv"] [member="Dante Calgar"] [member="Asharad Graush"] [member="Samka Derith"] [member="Ara Ren"] [member="Jamie pyne"] [member="Taeli Raaf"] [member="Carlyle Rausgeber"]

 

[Jaius Sovv]

As the two high ranking government officials walked together alongside a magnificent, heartbreaking Kaeshana vista, the Grand Moff courteously slowed her pace to allow the diminutive Sullustan shuffling along on his hovercane to keep up. Jaius felt weary already, and not from the walking. Exhausted, both from the egos at play (including his own) and the threats upon his life, he nodded solemnly in agreement as Natasi elucidated his very thoughts far more eloquently then he had apparently been able to manage. In retrospect, the President was forced to admit to himself that he had played no small part in elevating the tensions in the room to their current point.

As she turned and continued to lay out her simple truths, so too did Jaius stop, leaning heavily on his cane as he gave the Imperial aristocrat his undivided attention. When she had finished, President Sovv nodded sadly.

"I have always wanted to end this war," the President of the Sullustan Council turned to place a hand upon the balcony beside him, gazing out upon the landscape, "And I believe you do as well. If all my years have taught me anything, its that simple truths are the most elusive kind. I do not think we will ever agree on the motives for this war. For you, it began on Kaeshana. For us, on Mustafar. It matters, as the truth always matters, but for our purposes now what matters infinitely more is that we agree it now must end."

"But since we are being frank with one another, and since several other members of your delegation have also made their opinions on this matter known, I believe that our position is stronger than you are willing to allow. We turned you back at Skor, and we could do so again if forced to. While we may not have secured the Anoat sector, the Defense Force certainly dealt its military infrastructure a catastrophic blow. Failure to achieve victory is not always the same as total defeat, Grand Moff."

"The Federation agrees to your reparations," President Sovv turned back to look at Natasi with a warmer expression upon his wrinkled brow, "And the Galactic Alliance Guard and Strategic Intelligence Service will work with your First Order Security Bureau to come to an agreement on the dispensation of justice that is tolerable for both sides. For my own part, I apologize for my behavior inside that contributed to the current tensions, particularly concerning your Supreme Commander. My people have suffered much at the hands of his, but Queen Pyne was correct in that I had no right to air out my personal grievances in a diplomatic forum."


[member="Taeli Raaf"] | [member="Jamie Pyne"] | [member="Claire Organa"] | [member="Natasi Fortan"] | [member="Dante Calgar"] | [member="Valessia Creed"] | [member="Carlyle Rausgeber"] | [member="Asharad Graush"] | [member="Madlyn Sol"] | [member="Samka Derith"] | [member="Ara Ren"]