Ask Army of Faith: Fresian Fly By

[Alexandria Voran]

Hypocrite. The words rang hollow in the meditation chamber…bouncing time and again off the walls. You preach peace yet fund a war. You begged Morata for chances to heal but now fund killing you seek to stop. You teach harmony but ripped Asminy’s mind apart because you were tired. Alone in the mediation chamber on her shuttle, Alex allowed her doubt to cloud her mind. She faced them only when certain her weakness would not be seen. Here it was safe to face the growing concern in her soul. The Jedi Master firmly believe it was important to face your failings and to show the Order perfection was not the standard.

However, there was different between accepting failing and reveling your darkest fears. Without, Max she faced those alone. Her shortly cropped blonde hair had become a standard within the Order. A standard she was not yet ready to tarnish. So, she faced the duplicity of her mind. She faced her fears and wondered how to defeat that darkness. She wondered who she wanted to be? Who was she meant to be? Today, she was the consummate diplomat again.

The Council sought ways to bolster the growing conflict against the Sith. They were rapidly becoming outmanned and outgunned. They reached back to an era long since gone, and era not even Alex truly remembered. Yvian was beginning to counsel a return to an even older age. Alex agreed, but only to stop the militarization from growing. Her shuttle was headed to a complex run by Incom-FreiTek where she was to convince the CEO to part with some older symbolic fighters. Of course, she was not alone in her mission and her unlikely companion was flying them towards the rendezvous.

Alex stood slowly and moved to press the com. “Vraes, how close are we?” The Force was empty to her. She could not feel the distance. Concerning…to say the least.

@Rhogar

 

[Vraes Trenessar]

Vraes had been invited along by Alex to aid her in her quest. And since it ultimately aided in his own directive, he'd agreed. The Jedi, he could see why his kin hated them. But none hated the Jedi more than themselves. The struggle between the gods was evident in their daily strife's. Many of the Jedi, he noticed, were agents of Arasuum. More than happy to wait and lounge. They brought no change, they just.. existed. Jedi like Masters Yvain and Vahn were clearly agents of Kad Ha'rangir, the Destroyer as they were masters of war. But Master Voran was unique. She sought change.. through peace. Something that rarely worked, but it was respectable. Part of him wondered if the Jedi knew they served the Mandalorian gods, another part made him wonder if he should shed light on that.

Alex's voice would pull him from his reverie and he'd hit the button to answer. "Ten minutes out. Change out of your pajamas and rejoin the land of the living. We don't want anyone thinking you're a bandit. And bring your glowstick in case osik hits the fan." He'd tease.

Vraes was in his full kit, save for the additions of a grapple gun with an auto winch and jet boots instead of his old jump boots. The axe was propped against the control panel of the craft. "What are the rules of engagement? And do I need to follow them?"

@Valen Pelora

 

[Drow Venn]

Drow was both nervous and excited about this upcoming mission. For one, if it was successful, this venture would be a huge win for the Jedi as a reliable source of fighters was a huge boost to any army; as Drow well knew from his mercenary days. The Pamarthens were excellent allies but they could always be bolstered; especially after the losses they'd sustained on Byblos. But his nervousness crept in because Alexandria Voran was his partner and the last time he'd negotiated with her, it had been an embarassing mix of him saying the wrong things or stumbling over his words. While he was glad a superior diplomat was paired with him, he was trying to impress a bit more.

The Mandalorian companion was an interesting fellow and he reminded Drow of another Mandalorian he'd recently entered into a partnership. As their partnership was secret, Drow didn't say anything to Vraes about it but he was content to observe the Mandalorian for now.

"Hopefully, there won't be any engagement ruled or otherwise." Drow said to Vraes; no stranger to combat but not exactly wishing for it either.

"I've found in these situations, it's best to let Alex do the talking though. " he said a bit quieter to the Mando.

@Rhogar @Valen Pelora

 

[Alexandria Voran]

Alex took Vraes’ advice. They were not galivanting across some backwater world, she was delicately trying to win over the support of a major manufacturer. Appearances did matter. She opted to forgo the truly opulent style for a little more subtly. Their potential partner needed to be reminded exactly who he delt with. Jedi Master Alexandria Voran. Instead of formal attire, she kept the Jedi Robes but freshly pressed. They joined her typical synthweave tan tunic, black pants, and shiny black boots. Today she was every inch the well-kept Jedi Master. Alex’s saber hilt rested lightly against her hip.

Satisfied she made her way to Vraes. Of course, he was dressed for all-out war. Well…that was par for the holo-course these days. Their ship was nearing their destination. “We need resources to battle the Sith. This is a non-violent avenue to securing those resources.” Alex shrugged. “But frankly, I do not know what to expect. The Sith’s reach grows farther each day, and it is difficult to know friend from foe.” That was becoming truer and truer.

“The CEO is said to be a good man…a trustworthy man…but despite appearances at his heart he is an arms dealer. War is good for business, and I am sure he would like to keep it that way.” Her mind searched through the possible outcomes. “There will be a deal to be had and hopefully one that does not require fighting our way out.” She was growing tired of the constant violence. Alex contributed to the never-ending cycle. She wanted to stop but she struggled to find the answer. “But nothing is certain these days.” The Force rang as the ship exited hyperspace. A large space station appeared in the viewport. Ah…yes an arms dealer indeed. The Force hummed with the tension of a thousand souls. They were expected. Suddenly, Alex was very glad Drow was beside her.

@Rhogar @Fantasy Liver

 

[Vraes Trenessar]

Drow would recognize the Clan sigils on the man's beskar from the village of Tann on Roon. It would appear that his Clan and the Clan protecting the slaves was one and the same. He'd offer a shrug to Drow. "I'd rather be prepared and be able to fight without my hands tied. These aren't morally aligned people, they're in their business for profit, nothing else. I'm not much of a diplomat, but I typically let her do the talking anyway. But if you need an instigator, I'm your man."

The Mandalorian would rise to his feet, hefting his heavy axe and tucking it away. When Alex walked in, he'd whistle lowly, the sound modulated by the helm. "Watch out Arms Dealers, she broke out her fancy Pajamas." Something he had gathered from Alex, was she fought, but she wasn't fond of it. He could tell it was something that left a bitter taste in her mouth. "If it comes to it, leave the fighting to me. Just defend yourself, I can handle the rabble aboard the station. Save the rest of your soul."

@Fantasy Liver

 

[Vraes Trenessar]

Drow would recognize the Clan sigils on the man's beskar from the village of Tann on Roon. It would appear that his Clan and the Clan protecting the slaves was one and the same. He'd offer a shrug to Drow. "I'd rather be prepared and be able to fight without my hands tied. These aren't morally aligned people, they're in their business for profit, nothing else. I'm not much of a diplomat, but I typically let her do the talking anyway. But if you need an instigator, I'm your man."

The Mandalorian would rise to his feet, hefting his heavy axe and tucking it away. When Alex walked in, he'd whistle lowly, the sound modulated by the helm. "Watch out Arms Dealers, she broke out her fancy Pajamas." Something he had gathered from Alex, was she fought, but she wasn't fond of it. He could tell it was something that left a bitter taste in her mouth. "If it comes to it, leave the fighting to me. Just defend yourself, I can handle the rabble aboard the station. Save the rest of your soul."

@Fantasy Liver

 

[Drow Venn]

OOC: Apologies for lateness of the post - forgot to watch this thread

Drow had developed a killer's instincts during his time as both a mercenary and a Jedi. And since he was still alive and had all his limbs and eyes, he was grateful for them and learned to trust them. As such, he felt it wise to holster his E-11 blaster rifle to his belt in addition to his lightsaber. One never knew what could happen on assignments and Drow would rather have more weapons at hand than less.

"Honestly, them seeking profit puts me at ease. I know what their angle is at least. They want us buying from them." Drow murmured to his two companions as they approached the large space station. Their spacecraft came to dock in a ring and a tunnel was extended from the station to connect to their airlock so they could walk aboard.

"May the Force be with us. And try not to kill anyone." Drow said as he stepped out of their ship and into the station.

@Rhogar @Valen Pelora

 

[Alexandria Voran]

Alex smiled. “They’re comfortable.” The shuttle shuddered as it docked with the station. She took a small calming breath, laughing lightly. “That’s what I brought the two of you for.” She wiggled her fingers. “I don’t want to break a nail.” Of course, both Vraes and Drow had witnessed what Alex was capable of. Drow had seen the worst of her internal conflict with Asminys. Vraes present for the brawl on Taris. Alex did not take lives, but her life was lately prone to violence. She stepped into the station with her fellow Jedi. The stale scent of recycled air greeted the negotiating team. A hot rod red protocol droid stood flanked by a variety of guards. The droid’s optical receptors flashed.

“Master Voran I presume? And your companions?” Alex plastered that sweet smile on her face, her voice shifting to her diplomatic setting. “Of course.” She gestured first at Drow and then Vraes. “Jedi Master Drow Venn and Vraes Trenessar.” The droid cocked its head to the side. “We had been told to only expect you.” Tension hummed in the Force for a moment. It did not come from the droid but the guards. Their grips on weapons tightened ever so slightly.

Alex spread her arms wide. “Apologizes but these are dangerous times and unlike many of my brothers and sister, I am no warrior.” The droid whirred again. “Not what we’ve heard…no matter…Mr. Errol is ready to receive you.” The droid started waddling away. “Follow me.” Alex offered a small shrug. “Lovely.” They were off to a simple fantastic start…as usual.

@Fantasy Liver @Rhogar

 

[Vraes Trenessar]

"I make no promises, Master Jedi." Vraes would say with an amused tone through his helm as they headed for the exit ramp. "I believe even the Destroyer himself would weep for your broken nails." the Mandalorian said as he descended the ramp. He knew full well what she was capable of, he was just mindful of the path she wished to walk, and was present enough to know the path she was forced to walk.

Thankfully, he didn't have to smell that recycled station air. He had his own tihaar scented recycled air, which was far more pleasant. He would hum an old Mandalorian war chant to himself, lowly of course, to entertain himself. Peace talks could be boring and he was positive this would be no different.

When the droid began to speak, his arms crossed over his chest. By the gods, what he would give to just scrap the damn thing. Not that he hated droids, this one just seemed.. snooty. When the guards grips tightened, Vraes would step forward, positioning himself between Master Voran and the nearby guards, his own arms uncrossing slowly as his visor panned between each of them. Did he hope for a brawl? Always. Though for this one single moment, he wasn't. He was just well aware that he was a large warrior in large armor. A prospect he was sure the guards would be quick to realize.

Finally when the guards and the droid turned to lead them forward, his visor would shift to Master Voran, though there would be no apology.

@Valen Pelora @Fantasy Liver

 

[Drow Venn]

"Mr. Errol..." Drow mulled the name over in his mind. Of course, the name was familiar - he knew he was the CEO of Incom-FreiTek but that was the extent of his knowledge. He was certainly a billionaire but what kind of billionaire he was remained to be seen.

As it turned out, the answer turned out to be "eccentric billionaire." Cadence Errol was a Pau'an and he strutted into the conference room wearing nothing but the finest Lashaa silk in the brightest of colors. While that was garish enough, he also was decked out in the blingiest of jewelry that sparkled with every step. War was his business and, evidently, business was booming.

"My dear Jedi, welcome! I can't say that I've had the pleasure of meeting your kind before. Or if I had, it was quite unmemorable and I've forgotten!" Errol shouted gleefully as he walked in after having made the Jedi wait fifteen minutes of course. Punctuality was for the non-billionaires.

"So, what can I do for your illustrious order today?" Errol said, crisscrossing his feet on the conference room table.

@Valen Pelora @Rhogar

 

[Alexandria Voran]

The durasteel halls of the station were exactly what one would expect. Perfectly curated corporate taste. A tasteful rub lined the hallways, art depicting various planetary offices, the sounds of bustling employees. Of course, the Jedi knew the darker truth. This was all designed to give the feel of mere office work when the reality was much different. Incom-FreiTek was an arm manufacturer. The station was not an expansion of office life but a fully armed battle station. Satora Errol as head of the company was a political figure onto himself. That came with certain dangers. The Jedi Order were not the only ones looking to buy.

Alex occupied herself with these thought as they were lead through the maze-like complex. She did her best to try and memorize the route, but it was twisting. Oh well. The Force would be their guide if needed. She sensed only the usual tension aboard the station, nothing to indicate nefarious intent. In time, they were led into a stunning conference room…eventually being joined by the man of the hour. Alex smiled widely. He was exactly what they expected. “I doubt you’d forget us.” She laughed lightly. “Look at my friend here…he is extremely memorable.” Her hand flicked towards Vraes. That drew a small smile from the CEO. “You’d be surprised how many large men in armor I meet, Master Jedi.”

Well, that rang truthful in the Force. She supposed in this line of work Satora met his fair share of ruffians. Alex kept her tone conversational. “You’re busy and pleasantries are wasted breath. Incom once was the face of the Rebel Alliance, Resistance and New Republic.” She turned her palms up spreading her arms wide. “It should be again…we need starfighters…and you could use some good press.” Alex clicked her tongue in satisfaction. “You I like…but you can’t really think I can give them to you for free? The board was lose their minds…but it is tempting.” Alex could feel the Force churning. They at least had his attention.

OOC: Rolling!

@Fantasy Liver @Rhogar

 

[Vraes Trenessar]

Though Vraes was a well-trained navigator, he learned a few tricks in his day. He removed a stick of chalk as they walked, small enough to hide in his palm. During the walk, he'd pause at each intersection, admiring the craftsmanship of the station, or at least that's what it looked like. In reality, he'd be leaving small etchings that he'd recognize to map the path.

When they finally met the arms dealer, Vraes was far from impressed. The lithe man could probably support the weight of nothing heavier than a blaster. When Master Voran motioned to him, Vraes would speak up. "But most men in armor dress as such for play. And even less could drive an axe through it." Though his tone was usually gruff due to the speakers, she would be able to tell there was an attempt from Vraes to make his tone sound more conversational.

His visor would shift towards Master Voran, before shifting back to the Arms dealer. She seemingly had him on the ropes, he just couldn't tell if she was twisting the poor bastards mind. "Whats more, is you can tell potential customers that Mandalorians are using your fighters. We both know if you throw that on there, more will bite. Think of it as an investment. Your ships turn the tide of the war, no government would turn down purchasing your fighters."

@Valen Pelora @Fantasy Liver

 

[Drow Venn]

"The Order does have some money we can offer but, to be honest, it will be well below your asking price." Drow brought up, knowing the Order did have some funds and more now that he was selling produce from their newfound orchard. But it was still sure to be paltry amounts compared to what the Sith and Syndicates would likely pay.

"But look at this way. You could spend millions on your advertising budget to convince customers to buy your product. Or you could save that money and instead, use it to cut us a deal. What's more persuasive - some holo ad showing off your newest fighter? Or the news that Jedi and Mandalorians alike are using Incom fighters to right the wrongs of the galaxy?" Drow asked, trying his best to come off as measured and diplomatic and not the grizzled former mercenary that he was at heart.

"I like the way you think darling. But to be practical, there's a war going on. What am I to do if the Sith get a bit snippy that the Jedi are flying my fighters against them?" Errol brought up to Drow

OOC: 55/100 - a moderate success

@Rhogar @Valen Pelora

 

[Alexandria Voran]

Alex kept on smiling. This was her signature skill. Diplomacy with a pretty face. Frankly, everything seemed to be going smoothly. Vraes was gruff but trying and Drow had come a long way from their first meeting. Kriff, she was impressed. That was no easy feat to accomplish. A small bud of hope jumped in her chest. Perhaps this would be fruitful after all. Alex jumped in at the mention of the Sith. “The Sith may come asking but Order fights for freedom.” She shrugged. “Before long, the Sith just take what they want.” Their new friend clicked his tongue in disapproval.

“Oh dear, I see you’ve misjudged me. I am everything you think of me…a ruthless businessman with no moral compass.” He smiled. “I don’t fight for ideals or causes. I love credits.” Alex kept smiling. Don’t ever frown. They did not like frowns. “The Sith may come knocking but they pay and until they don’t, I am very happy. Now, I’m willing to sell to the Jedi but money talks.” She quickly shot Drow and Vraes a look. They simply did not have the credits to buy the fighters. They needed to convince the massive pain in their backside otherwise.

@Rhogar @Fantasy Liver

OOC: 22/100

 

[Vraes Trenessar]

The benefit of the helm? You could frown. You could frown all day and nobody would be the wiser. And the Mandalorian hated everything about the man standing before him. So, Vraes would casually step forward, at least as casual as one in heavy armor could. "Credits are only good.. when you are alive to spend them. And with the Sith losing their capital world, how many of their worlds will gladly contribute wealth to purchasing these ships?" he would pause in his gait before something very expensive, one gauntlet deftly reaching out, as if he were going to touch it.

But, he didn't. He'd just look over his shoulder, past the blade of the axe, so the dealer would have to focus on the weapon when he spoke. "If anything, they'll just take. And you'll become an example. And for a man who loves money, you miss the importance of having free advertising and the millions, if not billions you would save." His visor would shift back to the expensive item, where he -almost- touched it again. Though he'd leave his post to walk around behind the arms dealer as he mulled over the Mandalorians words and that of his companions.

All the while, he counted eight guards.. And as the arms dealer pointed out, this was a money venture and the Mandalorian was more than certain none in the room were willing to die for what little sums he paid them.

@Valen Pelora @Fantasy Liver

((OOC : 50/100- Barely a success))

 

[Drow Venn]

"Forgive us Mr. Errol but it seems like you didn't quite understand our earlier points about the money you'd be saving with throwing in with the Jedi. Advertising talks, I don't care which company it is. And the Jedi and Mandalorians flying your fighters are about as good and cheap of a celebrity endorsement as you can get." Drow said bluntly. Perhaps too bluntly but the Ishi Tib was a man of action and he'd always despised dancing around the rich, coddling them and playing their games. These were men who had everything and loved to see people grovel to get the few scraps they were willing to give out. Drow was sick of it.

"And let's be real here. We'd be flying those fighters to protect your interests as well. My friends are right; the Sith don't ask nicely for things and if they want what you have, how safe can your credits keep you from the full power of the Dark Side?" Drow asked somewhat menacingly. Perhaps it was a bit too bold but it actually seemed to shut Errol up.

"T-that is a good point Master Jedi, I have to say." the CEO said after being silent for some time.

@Valen Pelora @Rhogar

OOC: 82/100 - pretty damn successful

 

[Alexandria Voran]

Jedi Master Alexandria Voran…master negotiator. The grand diplomat was being marvelously outshone by her more martial companions. The smile plastered to Alex’s face was becoming genuine. She was stunned by Vraes effectiveness and Drow was a regular wordsmith. She raised an eyebrow at the Ishi Tib. He had gotten good. The tides of the negotiation were turning…that she could feel. Alex may have faltered with her words, but no one could sense the subtle shifts in conversation like the Morellian. They sang to her in the Force. Slowly, the balance was shifting towards the Jedi. She shrugged.

“What else can I say that my manly companions haven’t?” A flash of teeth. “The Sith grind all to dust eventually. Their Empires burn bright and burn out, leaving charred ruins in their wake.” Alex casually pulled her saber into her hand. “We offer a chance to avoid that cycle. You can’t be rich if you’re dead…and you love being rich.” A huge boom of laughter came from the CEO. “Well you are certainly correct on that front dear.” He eyed the assembled group. “So tell me exactly what you need from me. I sense we are near a deal.” She did not sigh in relief. She was too control for that but thank the Force she had managed to remove the foot from her mouth. She had a reputation to uphold damn it.

OOC: 81/100

 

[Vraes Trenessar]

At this point, Vraes would remain quiet, choosing to move beside the little puke, his heavy armor nudging the man. The visor would shift to focus on the arms dealer. The man had chosen wisely so far, he had no idea the lengths Vraes was willing to go to get the Jedi their ships. "When they come for you, the Sith.. I'll be sure to be here defending your station. Show you the worth of your investment."

The Mandalorian would then clap the Dealer on the back, his grip tight around the upper shoulders. "I'll let the pretty lady iron out all the details." He'd then give him a gently but rough shake before releasing the grip and stepping away.

@Valen Pelora @Fantasy Liver

 

[Drow Venn]

"A Mandalorian bodyguard isn't something to sneer at, trust me." Drow said, having had quite the experience with the famed warriors. He'd been on the opposing side of one before and wasn't keen to repeat that experience. For his part, Errol smiled at the remark and Drow's stomach was filled with a warm, happy feeling. He wasn't tanking these negotiations like he was used to! In his fifties and he'd finally managed to get one down on the books!

It seemed a deal was about to be made. All that needed to be stated was asking for what specifically the Jedi wanted. On a roll, Drow decided to shoot for the stars and ask a bit higher

"30 T-70 X-Wings with astromechs, flight suits, and training modules to go along with them." Drow said firmly, not daring to hope that such an offer would be accepted without negotiating. It turned out that it was though. Errol boomed with laughter and shook the Ishi Tib's hand.

"I love it! You're not afraid to ask for the moon! You know what - I'll even throw in a paint job for you on all those fighters too! What do you say to a nice sky blue with an image of Luke Skywalker on the nose? Or maybe a really gonzo color scheme like green and gold stripes. Or maybe jet black with a white wampa skull to really terrify those Sith! I can see it on an ad poster now!" Errol said giddily. Drow flashed a knowing and incredulous grin to Alex and shrugged his shoulders.

@Valen Pelora @Rhogar

OOC: 92/100 - huge success.

 

[Alexandria Voran]

Alex was rarely rendered speechless. In fact, she always had something to say. A true blessing and a curse. She was searching for words that simply would not come. They had done it. They had actually done it and she had been almost no help. The dynamic duo of Drow and Vraes convinced Mr. Errol of the impossible. Never in a lifetime would she have bet on those two. Alex deeply respected Drow trusted him with her life, but she knew his limitations with the gentler arts. Vraes was a loyal companion that no one was mistake for a politician. Incredibly, each knew exactly what to say. Alex was in the way if anything. The Jedi Master smiled broadly. “Just the coat of paint will be fine.” She patted Drow on the shoulder.

“Master Venn will handle the delivery particulars.” Her mind touched Drow’s at that moment. “Incredible…a long way since the last time we tried this.” Even now she could see the last eccentric trillionaire Drow tried to charm. The outcome had been similar but that had been her doing. Alex bowed deeply to the CEO. “I must report to the Council, I am sure this will not be our last meeting.” Another beaming smile. “Yes, yes, of course! The start of many a spirited negotiation!” She nodded to Drow. He could wrap things up without her. She really did need to report to the Council.

Alex was lead through the labyrinthian station back to their ship. She smiled the entire walk. The delegation had accomplished the seemingly impossible and this was just the start. A connection with Incom could change everything. The Morellian Master set aside her moral questions. For now. She could celebrate a success without worrying for the future. The truth was the Order was changing whether she want the changes or not. She needed to help in whatever way she could. This would help. Her concerns would need to addressed but for now she could report to the Council assistance was on the way. That little voice in the back of her head wouldn't shut up.

OOC: Alex Exits Thread

@Rhogar @Fantasy Liver