[Malastare] Dugout Councils

[Horus Tempest]

Dugout Councils

Horus sighed as the Winter's Crow docked onto the surface of Malastare, a relatively desolate planet. He'd volunteered for a mission that required diplomacy and tact, something that he was quite skilled at. It was suited to the young Vahla to be meeting with the Dug representatives to discuss the possibility that they would allow humans to be allies in the coming months and beyond. The Vahla was more than aware that it may be difficult given the history. But as one of the Dug guards approached, and escorted him and his ally to the main council chamber, he knew it was also possible to achieve a balance of amity here.

"Welcome, ambassador. Right through here please."

"Absolutely. Thank you, sir, this should be interesting. Come on, let's move."

He turned to his allies and nodded forward, leading the way into the cylindrical meeting chamber, wherein sat a number of dug representatives and their Doge, respectively. The Doge was a leader of the Dug, and he was usually the be all, end all of the conversation. He was to be afforded absolute respect, and as such Horus bowed low as he entered, to which the Doge nodded respectively. It was from there that he found himself a seat, and the conversations would begin once his ally found himself inside. This would hopefully be a quick and easy mission, one of conversation instead of blaster fire and sword swinging.

A good change of pace.

@Great Jamie

 

[Joran Miran]

Negotiation. A skill Joran did not know whether he would be good at this or not. In his time in the Alliance, he hadn't really had to utilise this skill in any meaningful way. Unfortunately, or fortunately, depending on whether this mission would go well for him or not, this as changed. He was here with a different person than he usually fights with, someone he hadn't seen at Savareen. But he was part of the Alliance, and that was good enough for him. So here he was, on Malastare. On the way to the planet, he wracked his brains for any information about the planet which could prove vital in their quest to persuade the Doge to support the Alliance. But he couldn't think up of anything. Maybe it was just some insignificant planet that the Rebels could just swoop in and gain the support of with ease. Hopefully it would be that easy. Standing alongside his ally and entering the chambers, he noted that the palace wasn't actually that impressive compared to the others he's seen. And in that moment, he wondered why the Rebels even bothered with this world. There didn't seem to be much which this world could give. A mission which was just the usual waste of time? He certainly hoped not. Remaining silent as he let his ally speak, he nodded where he had to the guards, and as they entered the meeting chamber, he bowed with the greatest courtesy which he could muster. As a former Imperial, manners and discipline had been paramount, which helped him get through this. After, he found a seat, and things would now begin to proceed. Hopefully this could just all end and he could get out, but beggars can't be choosers.

 

[The Storyteller]

The Doge wasn’t a particularly kind or benevolent man, he was in fact the very pinnacle of corruption and seemed all rather all that the Rebels wanted to broker an alliance with him. Not that such political desperation mattered to him, he would get his credits and his country would prosper, thus securing his position for some time further. He wasn’t really one to have elaborate meetings in his office and thus they would find that seats were limited.

The Doge looked over Joran a bit @Great Jamie , before saying calmly, “You’re in my seat...”. He smirked as he light a cigar and paced behind his other two Dug Representatives. “You gentleman have had quite the journey, so let’s get to it...What can I do for you?”

@TheMorrigan

 

[Horus Tempest]

Almost immediately, Horus was placed on edge when the representative entered the scene. He gave off an aura of someone who was used to getting his way and would likely not sway on his views. Luckily, the Vahla was more than practiced in the art of dialogue and discussion, and he was something of a diplomat himself through his Jedi training. He could also, if needed, pull manipulations, though he would rather not if it could be avoided. Straightening in his seat, he recovered his flask and drank some water from the container before moving it onto the table and onto the side, even as the Doge informed Joran that he was in his seat. That was some kriffery, right there, and a clear show of dominance. If it wasn't for the fact he was on a mission and this was an important dignitary, Horus would have had half the mind to slap the being. Turning to the Doge as he was addressed, he smiled slightly, and shook his head gently, motioning for his allied human to join him on the seat adjacent to him.

"It's okay. Just sit across from me."

Turning back to the doge with a mask of an appearance, neither showing emotion nor revealing his thoughts. He did not approve of corrupt officials, but he was no Sith. This wasn't meant to be a strongarm maneuver, this was meant to be a casual conversation concerning the future of the Alliance here on Malastare. He would not allow his emotions to compromise everything, and his meditations alone would prevent that. He was, as usual, in a state of ego-death that removed most inhibitions and allowed him to view the whole picture for what it was. His kyber crystal sat taught against his chest, his leather coat folded against the back of the chair awkwardly. He leaned forward as he began to reply, to show keen interest, but also to show a form of dominance and respect in kind. He understood that in these situations you needed tact, but also budging to ever whim would not serve the Alliance whatsoever.

"We are here to discuss a possible agreement between the Galactic Alliance and your people. I understand you are not exactly pleased with the idea of Sith occupation, and I assure you they will come in due time. We have a proposition that may ensure that never occurs."

@Great Jamie @Faded Truth

 

[Joran Miran]

Joran was certainly unimpressed by the Doge’s comment about him being in his seat. What a load of utter... This was most certainly a show of how he would maintain charge of these negotiations. Joran wanted to eventually prove him wrong. If he was an Imperial, by this point he’d get half the Navy to blast his world to smithereens by now. Unfortunately as a member of the Alliance, and being the quintessential good guys, he couldn’t. And so, with a gracious smile, he nodded, saying
“My Apologies” and got up, walking over to the seat which his fellow companion had indicated. Now, the negotiations could begin. After being led by the Jedi to what he should say, he took up the mantle.
“The Alliance has grown in strength ever since it’s birth, and it’s power is constantly increasing. Your people understandably don’t want a Sith occupation. We are the only ones who can deny the Sith, protecting your world against Imperial influence. They are already divided and weak, and with our forces, you’ll never have to dream about a Sith threat.” Before pausing, to catch his breath before speaking again
“But also, we understand that relations between you and the humans aren’t at its friendliest, and we want to try and mend these wounds. Because if your two peoples unite, Malastare will flourish. It’s economy will boom, the credits coming into your treasury will turn from a trickle into a flood, and the resources at your disposal would be endless. Malastare would prosper like never seen before, and that is all that we want.”

 

[The Storyteller]

.

The Doge was amused, and internally he couldn't keep from holding in the laughter. It was hilarious to mess around with these Rebels, as every year he'd have some overtly ambitious political swine try and convince him that it was time for the Dug to ally with the Humans. No, if they wanted this alliance they would have to do a little bit more that just reason based on economic terms. A snicker came to his face, as he playfully smacked Joran's back and moved away from the two Rebels. Perching upon the counter, "At least you have a good enough sense of humor to take my jokes." As his assistant brought in a full bottle of liquor, the Doge began to drink rather profusely from it. There were rumors of him being an alcoholic but it seemed that these actions had now re-affirmed that.

"You see, it is not that I do not realize the importance of this human alliance. You don't understand how often we have emissaries come to speak to us in regards to the same offer you have on your table. More money, more prosperity, blah blah blah. The truth is, I frankly do not care about any of that. I am an elected official and my constituents are not going to be pleased with any brokerage with the humans regardless of the financial well being it may bring. And I don't intend to lose my position over helping some cause that the two of you decided to splutter in about.."

He took another swig from the liquor, attention now resting upon Horus. "I hate those bloody Sith but at least when they ask for my support they assure me that I will maintain my position regardless of the cost.." He chuckled darkly, "Offer me the same, and perhaps we can broker a deal.".

@Great Jamie @TheMorrigan

 

[Shikari]

Out on the landing platform, an imperial shuttle slowly lowered itself down onto the a pad. Guards came walking out of the control tower as the ramp extended down from the shuttle and a Pantoran woman walked out. She was somewhat oddly dressed. Definitely an outfit designed in the core. It definitely barred a bit of her blue-purple skin and showed her EL-Tattoos off quite nicely. None here would realize, but the peculiar thing about her appearance was in fact the lack of her signature mask covering the lower half of her face. She had left it on the ship, deciding that it would not be especially helpful in negotiations. Glancing across the landing platform, she saw a mynoch freighter landed on another pad. "Is that really what they came in? These guys are braver than I thought."

As the guards approached they called out. "Pardon us... uh..." They didn't seem to know how to address her. "A-... Ambassador Gale?" Ambassador? Yes, that would work nicely. Shikari would go with that. "We received your transmission to expect you, but as we said before, the Doge is currently in a meting with... Others right now." Shikari raised her pink eyebrow. "Others? Who would these others happen to be, might I ask?" Shikari waved her hand in front of the two dugs's eyes pushing his mind to be slightly more cooperative. "Oh, they are the ambassadors from the galactic alliance. They arrived a short time before you did." The Galactic Alliance? So it was them after all. Shikari had heard the rumors in the Empire, and the possibility had occurred to her when she had heard that her meeting with the Doge would have to be pushed back due to a conflict in his schedule, but to think that they were actually here? She had no time to waste.

Shikari waved her hand before the guards again, pushing their minds once more. "Oh yes, I had thought it might be them. You see, in fact, I am supposed to be present at this meeting to make a presentation to the Doge. I am so very sorry for my tardiness, would you kindly pass on my apologies to the staff? I would like to apologize to the Doge in person. Could you show me to the meeting please? I'd hate to be any later than I already am." The dugs blinked for a second and then snapped to attention. "Yes, well, the Doge does dislike being kept waiting, we'll have you know ma'am. But, with your polite apology, I am sure he will be forgiving of the matter. Now, we will take you to the meeting hall post haste. We cannot keep the Doge waiting." With that, the dugs set off in a rapid walk to the meeting hall, escorting Shikari along with them.

"...perhaps we can broker a deal." The doors to the meeting hall swung open and there stood Shikari, smiling at the Doge at the other end of the table. "I do hope you don't mean that when you say that you hate the sith, lord Doge." Shikari slid her right leg back and did an impressively elegant curtsy to the Doge. "You are certainly our favorite ruler in this sector of the galaxy." Shikari slid back to her standing position and smiled once more at the Doge and those at the table. Her yellow eyes slid over the two humans seated at one end of the table. Those must be the members of the alliance. She would remember their faces. "Surely the wise Doge would prefer to hear all offers that lie on the table before deciding on which would suit him and his people best, wouldn't he? I am Shikari Gale. Ambassador of the Imperial Republica, here at your service." Shikari hated pleasantries like this, but that didn't mean she couldn't do it with the best of them. Spending time with Eriana had certainly helped.

@Great Jamie @TheMorrigan @Faded Truth

 

[Horus Tempest]

Horus sat a little straighter on his chair as the Doge spoke honeyed words, commending Joran for being so able to take a joke. The young Vahla was not exactly wholeheartedly impressed, but at a minimum, the doge was a humorous being with a streak to continue. When the Doge began his speech, Horus had to actually strain not to physically cringe at the dialogue, which became more and more self-centered. It didn't take a genius to realize that the man was used to his authority and would do whatever was necessary to ensure that he possessed it. Horus couldn't make that sort of promise, he didn't have the authority to ensure that the Doge remained in command, but he did have the wherewithal to know that he would maintain a position and retain it if it was the will of the people. This being was not born for command, no being was, it was the right of all the dug to choose their leader. But, the Vahla had absolutely no reason not to lie through his teeth, he would avoid being untruthful only if it was truly horrid to lie. This man would no doubt have risen the ranks through much the same.

"I'm certain if you cooperate with us, we would be more than happy to keep you as you are. Of course, with another leader -"

Even as he spoke, Horus felt something odd wash over him. Something strange, something out of place... a gentle breeze of cold energy that emanated from outside. He knew what that feeling was, as he knew how powerful the being was - no more powerful than himself - undoubtedly an aura of dark energy. As the door swung open, Horus immediately rose from his seat, his eyes turning from ambient and joyful to thin and averse. His left hand gravitated towards his saber and remained there as he glared the woman who so boldly announced her presence down. Sith. Little did the woman know that despite his Jedi training, despite his natural inclination towards mercy, he had none such for users of the Dark Side. And even less patience for a Sith, the ones who so openly caused his family such pain. He would stay risen, his head cocking sideways slightly, and leaning forward on the very table on which they sat. Even as the woman sat down, he made note of her appearance, of any weapons - and on any allies. She had none. He considered taking her life, but quickly decided a limb would be enough.

"Sithspawn. Bold of you, to come here. Even bolder to assume I will ever allow you to leave. Doge, I am sorry to have brought this one here. Allow me to correct my mistake."

@Great Jamie @Faded Truth @Yuan

 

[Joran Miran]

The Doge's response was not an unusual one. Because for people out here, power was everything. Power granted you wealth and a comfortable life, compared to what everyone else lived in. Some of his decisions as leader might also have gotten him enemies, who would live to go in on him if he left the comfortable fortress that was his position. At this point, Horus began to speak up, going on presumably about the benefits of joining the Alliance which would be bestowed upon him if he joined. However, he began to trail off, and Joran raised his eyebrows. He didn't know why he was acting up before the door swung up. Great, the Imperials were here. He hoped there wasn't an armada at the representative's back for the Imperials, and there probably wasn't, he was just getting a little scared. He frowned at the Sith's arrival, he knew if it came down to it, he wouldn't stand a chance at fighting her. In fact, if he ever did go undercover and met her, he would be probably finished. But he wasn't. and he knew he had to keep things diplomatic and peaceful at any costs. Unfortunately, this probably meant accommodating the fiend, and winning the engagement not with weapons, but with words and in the end, promises. However, as he looked at Horus, it was very clear that he wasn't going to be so nice. So at this point, he rose sharply and coughed a little, before speaking
"I'm sure what he meant was we welcome the representative from the Empire, and would like to try and accommodate her in these talks." He said with a happy smile, and a nod to the Sith before saying.
"If you would like to take my current seat Sith, I can sit next to my friend, to make sure there's a little distance between the 2 of you if you feel uncomfortable sitting next to him.". He also pointedly looked at the Jedi, giving him a look which said something on the lines of
'If you ignite your weapon, I'll ignite you.'

 

[The Storyteller]

.

The Doge was seated and about to speak when it appeared that an eccentric emissary from the Empire decided to join and offer her cards on the table as well. He lofted a singular brow and then chuckled as the two Rebels prepared to hurl some entertaining verbal threats at the newcomer. This was actually turning out to be a more hilarious encounter than he had anticipated, and a sly smile of amusement was etched onto the diplomat's face.

"Well, this certainly changes these..You gentlemen don't mind if I listen to what our Imperial friend has to offer do you? After all, wouldn't you be trying to match or beat their offer?"


@Great Jamie @TheMorrigan @Yuan


(Sorry for the Delay. Hopefully we all get to post regularly now so we can crank through the remainder of this DM plot)

 

[Shikari]

Shikari smiled at the Alliance representative that rose so adamantly at her arrival and threw such vigorous contempt her way. This was the reaction that she had been looking for with her rather grand entrance. Not only did her presence clearly shake him, but he actually threatened her life. How wonderful. He really seemed to hate her. She could use that. Shikari watched as the man's hand gravitated towards his belt. Hanging there was what could not be mistaken for anything else. A lightsaber. So this one was one of the Jedi who had only recently reappeared in the galaxy. The fact that he was here and armed sent a slight chill up Shikari's spine, but she pushed it back. Indeed, this was actually a rather entertaining turn of events. She would put this jedi to the test and see what he was made of. The other Alliance member issued forth a gesture of peace, even offering Shikari his seat. What a boring response. Shikari decided that she was less fond of him.

Shikari bowed once more as the Doge spoke. She slipped her jacket down off of her shoulders and spun about, showing off her curves and lack of any sort of armament. "Forgive my sudden interruption again, lord Doge. I did not mean to startle anyone. Though I must say that I did not expect another guest of yours to threaten my life upon entering. I only wish to offer the lord Doge everything that he wants and more. I even came here completely unarmed in good faith, as you can see. I suppose it was foolish of me to assume that the JEDI would do the same." Shikari smiled at the Galactic Alliance members as she completed her turn. But, when her eyes crossed those of the Jedi, they showed a wicked sort of glee within them. "I thank my counterpart of the Rebel faction for his offer of his seat, but I think it would be better for everyone if I took a seat on the opposite side of the table. I wouldn't want to provoke your partner with my proximity. He seems rather on edge. I find that rather amusing given that jedi are supposed to be known for their patience."

Shikari stepped up to the table and walked to the side opposite the Alliance members, taking a seat by herself. "Now, I would be delighted to regale lord Doge with everything the Republica is prepared to offer, but seeing as I missed the first portion of the meeting, I am unaware of what it is I am competing against? Perhaps the representatives of the Rebels could repeat their offer so I might have a better understanding? As it stands right now I am only aware of the Jedi's offer to take my life." Shikari rested her head on her hand and gazed cooly at the Jedi before her. "Forgive me, but I am not familiar with this new jedi order that has recently arisen within the Rebellion. Do they always offer death in the middle of negotiations?"

@Great Jamie @TheMorrigan @Faded Truth

 

[Horus Tempest]

-Music-
(Sorry for the late reply, just recovered from some stuff.)
​

Horus usually wasn't one to jump into conflict. In fact, it was rare that he drew his saber at all. And yet the amber bladed weapon sat clasped in his hand, prepared to spring forth the fiery blade that would end this woman. His ally, however, did not seem to take very well to that idea and immediately provided a diplomatic continuation of the negotiations. His knuckles were almost white from the force used in holding the hilt itself. He sat back, tall and straight; his hair was of a shining raven, his face fair and young and fearless and full of purpose; his eyes were bright, crackling, fiery and clean, and his voice like music. On his brow sat wisdom, and in his heart was strength. Strength enough to thin his gaze and return to his seat, impassively, as though her presence was that of a minor inconvenience.

"That is absolutely not what I meant. But, sure. Let's entertain. As for your quips, young lady... We both know neither Sith nor Jedi are ever unarmed. Even now, the weapons at my side are nothing compared to the power of the Force. A user of the Dark Side is a living weapon, to be treated as a deadly threat at all times, no matter the circumstances. My ancestors tried to reason with your kind once, so did my father, forgive me for not making the same mistake."

His head cocked slightly at his ally's comment about attacking him should he do anything against this newcomer, and in response, both of his eyes began to spark and fume golden for a moment, before returning back to their usual glowing state. He was more powerful than anyone in the room. The Vahla was aware of it, and he had no issues in reminding those around him exactly what a newly christened Jedi Knight was capable of. But, not now. Not yet. Horus turned and completely disregarded the girl for a moment, his face becoming more calm and amiable, even casting a slight smile as he turned back to the Doge. His eyes were certainly questioning of the being, wondering what he had to gain from being branded a traitor. Even talking to the Alliance was perhaps a death sentence for him. But maybe he didn't know that yet, or maybe he knew full well and needed to save face. The negotiations were far from over, and they were also far from lost to him and his ally. As he repeated the terms, he turned back to the Sith with the same impassive composure as earlier.

"Our offer is simple. Allying with us will provide you with a unique and rare opportunity to truly develop yourselves as an independent power - one without the oversight of a military government. Keeping your position will be the least of the benefits. Imagine exactly what you and your people can do... once you are free of them. We are not an Empire, we do not seek to rule or sanction, we want peace and freedom for every living thing if they'd have it. In the end... that is our offer. The chance to gain your own freedom, and do with it as you see fit."

@Faded Truth @Great Jamie @Yuan

 

[Joran Miran]

Joran was very tempted to slap the living hell out of Horus. Jedi are supposed to be peaceful no? Happy! And yet this Jedi clearly seems to have something against these Sith. Well guess what buddy, don’t we all! However, Joran decided to let him off, as the conversation continued. Hours decided to use this time to begin talking about the benefits of joining a free society like the Alliance. Now however, Joran decided to coordinate with him, by talking about the disadvantage of working alongside the Empire

“Allying with the Sith however, well. Your power won’t be so well maintained when they march in. The Sith don’t care about you or any authority you hold. When they march in, that’s that. The Empire will hold a lightsaber to your throat and force you into decisions, which you have no say, and that’s if your lucky. They’ll send a Moff in, and kick you to the curb, or just execute you anyway. That’s their preferred method. Whilst the Alliance will let you rule independently, not interfering in the internal management in a manner the Sith will. You can rule however you wish. The Sith may not even let you rule for very long at all.”