Ask Machines of War

[Darth Caelestis]

Hi above the planet of Liana, orbital shipyards floated around the Ecumenopolis, below the hulking pieces of metal billions of people lived and worked, many for the tycoon that Artorigas had travelled here to see. The planet was less known for its enormous population or tactical location but of a signular product. The TIE Fighter, the headquarters for Sienar and Siena-Jaemus Fleet Systems, the renowned Starship design who had helped redefine space combat over the past century and a half resided on the planet. It was a strange thought that even though the Sith had seen a large number of there ships he had never once known that the planet of Liana was were they came from.

"Starport Valles to 'Wyvern', you have clearance to land on pad seventeen. Please approach at low speed." Cydric flicked to switch to accept the comm link and give the woman on the other line his acknowledgement. They had exited Hyperspace a short time ago and had made there way over to the orbital platform at a slow pace. Cydric had called ahead that two Sith Marauders had requested a meeting with the current CEO of Sienar-Jaemus Fleet Systems, it had received a panicked reply from the command tower and they were slowly moved around from the commercial side of the shipyard to the private entrances.

The traffic around the far side of the shipyard was light, only a few transports leaving the nearby hanger bays giving Cydric who was in the pilot's chair today and easy approach into bay seventeen. As they passed through the shielding keeping the oxygen in and the empty void out, the ship pivoted in place showing the landing ramp to the hanger bays internal doors. Already a small group had appeared all standing straight, prim and proper the correct greeting party for the Sith.

Artorigas moved away from the Co-Pilot chair and back into the personal living areas of the transport. He was already kitted out in his personal Armour of Wessex, the extravagance of the armour was made for this. To impress, to intimidate, to win the fight before he had spoken a word or swung a saber. Taking the helmet from the armour stand near his quaters doors he turned to his accomplice on the mission, the Zabrak Xeno. He to had recently risen from the rank of Acolyte and Artorigas had worked with the alien before both times to good success.

"I hope you brought your fancy clothes today Xeno, we are here as representative of the Sith Eternal." It was a lie Artorigas was here for Artorigas no one else, Xeno would be rewarded for his help, that was no skin of his back but otherwise it was for his gain. Not a Darth's and not The Eternals.

@Scoobert

 

[Darth Draugr]

Liana, this was a first for Xeno undoubtedly. The idea of materialistic items here was not anything that interested the Zabrak. Artorigas was only able to get Xeno to agree to come by saying it was for the Sith Eternal. Did Xeno fully believe him? Not entirely, though the Zabrak figured there would be a way to make it for the Eternal nonetheless. If there would be the chance of getting an agreement set in place, then the Sith would have an arsenal at their disposal. He just needed to play his cards right.

Artorigas was wearing that ridiculously over bearing armor and had dared to say he hoped Xeno was wearing 'fancy' clothes? The Sith has really lost his karkin mind. Anyhoo, yes Xeno was dressed for the occasion wearing his Sith Ops Robes to give the Zabrak the look of a true Sith and a hint of class. It didn't matter what the two wore, only results mattered when it came to a mission.

"Yes of course, I can say I dressed a little more accordingly than you have my friend. Alright, let us go see this person you spoke earlier on the ride here."

@Braden Drake

 

[Darth Caelestis]

Considering most of the time he had seen Xeno he was in training robes if not something less concealing, the fact he wore his fancy robes today, Artorigas could only count as a win. "Well thank you for making the effort." He said with a smirk, sarcasm thick within his voice as he made his way to the slowly lowering loading ramp. Just before making his full prescene known tot he waiting officials he slipped the mask over his head, a snap-hiss signalling it was locked and the rebreather was active.

The armour was heavy but with the aid of The Force he was able to move with little impediment, the added weight was easily heard through his footsteps echoing of the Durasteel floor of the hanger. He gave no look to see if Xeno was following, to look back was to look weak and in he needed to project strength if he was going to strong arm the CEO into doing what he wanted.

Reaching the small group of ten individuals he stopped and waited for them to introduce themselves. "It is a pleasure to meet you My Lords." The man said with a small bow. "My name is Markus Ran, I am the CEO of Sinear Fleet Systems, welcome to Starport Valles." Though neither of them were Sith Lords in the eyes of those not amongst the ranks of the Sith they might as well have been the Sith Eternal himself. "Please follow me this way, we have a room set up for you both."

@Scoobert

 

[Darth Draugr]

Xeno was relaxed and waiting for the departure from the ship to commence, so basically he was waiting for Artorigas to move his metal ass and get going to where they need to be. The Zabrak watch as the other Marauder would put his helmet on, it was pressurized. The armor was large, movement would be restricted if he hadn't been focusing the force on aiding his movement. It was a risky suit to wear. Fortunately for him the two were not encountering Jedi, only business people.

"And off we go, metal man."

After a walk from the ship, the two had come across a group of individuals. One of which introduced himself as Markus Ran, the CEO of this establishment. He figured the two Marauders were Lords of the Sith.. not quite yet, though soon they will be in that role of leadership. The Zabrak would speak only enough to introduce who he was,

"Xeno"

The introduction was spoken with a slight growl. He had to let the others know he was more fierce than they. To let them know to not get any ideas of ambush, or to even simply touch him. Xeno's eyes were fixated on watching the individuals and their movements. I the had seen any sign of threat he would be ready to eliminate them.

@Braden Drake

 

[Darth Caelestis]

The surrounding group took an involuntary step away from the Zabrak, probably much to Xeno's preference. The man had seemed to embrace the Sith be angry all the time mantra rather well, it was a rather useful to have around though it could lead to situations Artorigas would rather avoid.

Markus led the pair through a whole lot of Durasteel corridors, he rattled off about some of the targets and production lines they were currently producing for the Sith Eternal war effort. These numbers mattered little to Artorigas but the fact the man was willing to give out such important information on the Sith war effort to him gave him an excuse to smile behind his mask. He was moving on up and that was all he could ask for at t his time, the first plan had gone off without a hitch. Now the second stage was moving forward at a good pace.

Eventually the pair were lead to a boardroom set up overlooking the main shipyards, dozens of ships could be seen slowly being constructed from the viewport to the right. A rather lavish array of food and drink had been laid out for the pair. "Please take what you wish, we can then discuss business."

@Scoobert

 

[Darth Draugr]

The place of business was rather impressive Xeno had to admit. Though his face wouldn't show it. The Zabrak wasn't much for letting himself seem like the approachable type. Power by way of fear was the easiest way to show who was in charge. No one will disobey if they feared they would die by doing such things. This is how Xeno did his business, Artorigas by now was well aware of how Xeno conducts such business, and should be aware he would be acting the same way here.

When Xeno and Artorigas had made it to the boardroom he noticed the person they came to meet was not present. Gave a little more time to appreciate the look of the fleet out in front of them. When the Sith had been offered the food and drinks, the Zabrak waved one of the members of the group over.

"You will eat this, and drink that. They are my favorites. I would like to know I am not to be poisoned, and before you ask if I am serious, yes. I am. Can't be too careful."

The scared board member was confused. Though when the Sith's eyes had met theirs, they quickly grabbed the drink and took a swig out of it. Then grabbed a small portion of the food and took a couple bites. Xeno waited a few moments to see the outcome and held a hand to Artorigas knowing he would ask if it was necessary. When the board member was fine, Xeno turned to face Artorigas and then said,

"The food and drink are safe for you to eat. Indulge at your own free will."

The Zabrak looked around the room and grew annoyed with the faces of the people around him. He had wanted to make them leave but he knew Artorigas would want to speak with them so instead he walked to the windows and looked upon the fleet of vessels being constructed.

"The sun shines on the Sith..."

The whisper left the Zabrak's mouth. He was proud to be on this mission for the Eternal this day.

@Braden Drake

 

[Darth Caelestis]

A smile lifted Artorigas' lips as the rather aggressive Zabrak forced a man to eat his food to make sure he was not being poisoned. Xeno never ceased to make time around him interesting that was for sure, the panicked man quickly began to down the drink and eat the food giving the paranoid Sith some measure of peace. Artorigas was not fussed about the food taster, one because he was not planning on eating or drinking, that would involve removing the Mask something he did not wish to do.

As Xeno made his way across towards the window Artorigas let out a small comment. "You know it could just be slow acting poison?" It was a joke though he was unsure how the rather stiff Zabrak would take it.

Turning back to the assortment of officials that had met them he pointed at the chairs around the main table. "Please sit, let us discuss." It was supposed to be a polite request but the voice distortion through the mask made it sound more sinister than perhaps intended. Though Artorigas did not care as the men quickly made towards the seats.

Once they were seated Artorigas through a small holo-disk onto the table, as it hit the durasteel a small image appeared of an advanced TIE. "Sienar-Janus designed and built this ship for the First Order, though you cancelled all work upon it once they collapsed." He moved slowly around the table moving closer to his fellow Sith. "We desire the design to be re-started. I think four test models will suffice. One for my colleague here and the rest for myself, my apprentice and our Lord." The last was a bluff, Artorigas just wished for a third just encase.

@Scoobert

 

[Darth Draugr]

Artorigas spoke of the possibility of the drink Xeno had checked being slow acting poison. The Zabrak turned to look at his ally clad in armor, and would scoff as he went back to looking at the ships. Xeno was sure he would not die from the drinks but he was also not to partake in them yet. Business wasn't handled just yet. So the Zabrak decided to remain sober.

"If it is slow, then I will find out when he dies."

The time to speak of the ships and the business deal was here, Unfortunately the CEO had not yet made an appearance, which was quite disrespectful to the Sith here for business. When Artorigas was speaking over the continuation of the production on the advanced TIE, the board members that were actually in attendance were listening to how the proposition sounded. Luckily a majority were showing interest in the offer, but one had spoken up.

"And what exactly do you offer us in return? I don't see production being likely if there is not a proper payment. Plus, the way you Sith are, you can provide protection to this planet and such. We will require protection for the production."

The man was human, and tall. He sat directly across from where Artorigas stood and had an unamused face when speaking. Xeno turned to see who was daring to demand anything from them and had an angered expression. The Zabrak had his arms crossed and was ready to force choke the man, but would stay still and let the negotiator, Artorigas, handle the problem.

@Braden Drake

 

[Darth Caelestis]

Though none could see it, Artorigas gave a large smile beneath the helmet of his armour. He liked opposition such as this, getting things all your own way just because you swung around a big glowing stick for a job was no fun at all. Eyeing the man up, Artorigas lent forward, it was Markus, the one who had met them in the hanger. As the Sith moved some of the men around him shifted in there seats unnerved by the movement of the Sith Noble.

"If the four test units are up to a suitable standard and perform as required then our Lord will place a larger order for the fighters. His own domain covers four planets, he will need a suitable fighter force to cover all those systems. I would say at least two air wings each, wouldn't you Xeno?" He asked looking at his dour accomplice.

After the Zabrak replied Artorigas continued. "So with a large order incoming I see no issue on payment for four test models. With regards to protection, you lie deep within Sith territory, even know I can see a fully armed and operational Star Destroyer from this window, what else do you need protection from?"

@Scoobert

 

[Darth Draugr]

The Zabrak was listening to Artorigas speak as he was better with words. This was where Artorigas excelled, words. Xeno was much more of a big body to attack and kill. To intimidate. Negotiation was possible with the Zabrak Marauder, but more often than not, you'll catch Xeno being the guy who incites fear. Artorigas continued to ask Xeno of what he thought with the air wings.

"I'd say three, but you always were more of the negotiator."

Then the continuation of Artorigas' words would reveal that the idiots were already under Sith supervision, and that they couldn't ask for more protection. Xeno agreed with it. This was possibly the easiest mission he had ever been a part of for the Sith.

"I suppose you are right. I can see to it that production continues but please note that these schematics are slightly outdated. Are you sure you still want these on the line?"

@Braden Drake

 

[Darth Caelestis]

Artorigas gave the Zabrak a side look when he mentioned the three wings, they both knew this entire bluff was a lie so it was strange for him to go bigger, he was usually such a straight shooter. Neither Artorigas or Xeno served a direct Sith Lord, yes there were those above them but neither of them reported directly into anyone. Turning back to the assembled group he crossed his arms and lent back.

"The units were experimental and advanced for their times, so hopefully only basic systems would have traversed those plans. Though I am sure with your combined knowledge you will know what systems need to be upgraded and what can stay the same. You wouldn't be the best starfighter company in the Galaxy is that wasn't the case." It was half arsed praise to say the least, if they brought it great if they didn't it was hardly to much of a wasted breath.

@Scoobert

 

[Darth Draugr]

The Zabrak was tired of the political actions. He wanted to just force the production into motion, but from what he remembered on Edusa, Artorigas prefers using words. Not actions. Out of respect for his fellow Marauder, Xeno would stay quiet and still. Besides, he knew he was here as muscle for the "just in case" moments. Xeno was physically, and forcefully stronger. Artorigas just had more intuition than the Zabrak. It's that Dathomirian education that really stands out.

Biting his tongue the fool speaking to Artorigas would not have much else to say. The Sith pointed out their flawed requests, and points. He simply sat in his chair and stared at the table for a few moments tryint to think of any reason not to do what he was asked. Then with a sigh he would look up at Artorigas' armor, and say

"Alright Sith, I will inform the engineers and architects to begin development of the TIE fighter. We will keep in touch."

Right then he stood up and began to walk out, leaving the Sith in the room with the other board members. The Zabrak looked to Artorigas. Then asked.

"What else did we come here for?"

Xeno was giving Artorigas the chance to speak of the truth to why they came to this planet. He knew the Eternal wasn't going to receive a ship from Artorigas, and the Zabrak would eventually make it known of the charade that the other Sith was playing, but he would wait until the right time. There were ill intentions being made from Artorigas since that day in the tomb.

@Braden Drake

 

[Darth Caelestis]

That wasn't to hard now was it, Artorigas thought, everyone one in the room felt better for what had happened. If Xeno have had his way he would have his lightsaber against the boards throat forcing them to do everything he wanted. Yes that got fast results but also sloppy ones, people who work in fear do not work as hard as those who work of there own accord. It was a fact of the galaxy, one that many of his Sith brethren had not had the sense to understand.

"Thank you, Mr Ran. It has been a pleasure." Artroigas said from behind the mask before pushing the chair back and standing. All those at the desk quickly rose to there own feet and gave both Sith a bow before Artorigas turned to depart. "No, nothing else unless you want yours in a shiny red to match your fod?" He replied with a sarcastic tint. Before making his way to the door and their ship.

@Scoobert

 

[Darth Draugr]

As the board members left, Xeno listened to the sarcastic comment about his color ship. It was enough to cause for annoyance but the presence of Artorigas was much like when they had first met each other. Not much would change the way these two spoke with each other.

"No, I prefer black. Though some red for the blood of my enemies would quite nice."

Xeno still had the comment come out in a deep tone, but it was obvious he was making a joke with Artorigas. At least to the best of his ability. The Zabrak walked behind Artorigas as he would just follow to the ship. What was it called? The Waverly Place? Eh it didn't matter these two 'wizards' achieved their goals today. Artorigas for the production, Xeno for not killing someone for once. The dynamic duo will be back at it again someday soon.

@Braden Drake