The Manaan Initiative: Solidification

[Zamid Sarlo]

Ahto City, Governmental District​

Inside a sliver colored conference room, sitting at the front of a table was Zamid Sarlo dressed his new Imperial black uniform. For a moment, the Duros looked out at the window on the right. He could see the waters were placid underneath the sun. Hopefully, it will be the same with this upcoming meeting. Sarlo thought to himself before pulling out a note pad and began writing.

Not too long ago he came here on a different diplomatic mission as a senator accompying the Jedi. It had part of a joint effort to resettling a collection of outworld refugees in this planet back to their original homeland. Now here he was serving as an ambassador for the Sith Empire with a very different objective. Times have changed greatly.

Councilman Ah-Tock has proven a thorn to Empire’s interests on Manaan. Eliminating the man is out of the question. Better to turn him to our side or rendered the official harmless to our efforts without violence of course. He should be entering any minute since our parties agreed to meet halfway.

The junior Moff then turned toward the other man in the room. Zazai Ta’Resh, a towering Sith Knight assigned to the same mission but more as muscle for security and a set of observant eyes. This is the second Pureblood Sith that Sarlo had encountered so. They will need to work together efficiently to conclude the mission in a successful matter.

He nodded at the Knight respectfully acknowledging the warrior’s role. A moment later he went back to making more notes as they waited for the Councilman to arrive.

@Raydo

 

[Zazai Ta'Resh]

Zazai stood off to side, arms folded in the sleeves of his robe. Underneath, his metallic armor shimmered from the light outside. He had a hard, blank expression on his face. This type of mission didn’t suite him. He belonged on the battlefield with his troops, but he had found himself here accompanying the Jr. Moff on this diplomatic mission.

Zazai had technically come as security if was needed, but the expected little danger. Zazai was here as a reminder of what awaited the councilor’s people if they dare oppose the Empire further.

He nodded slightly in response to the Moff’s greeting before settling back into his position.
A moment later the doors slid open revealing the councilman they had been sent to speak with. The men quickly entered the room “Sena…” he said cutting himself off as he recovered “My apologies.. Moff Sarlow. It is a pleasure.” He turned to Zazai and bowed slightly “and to you, friend.” He spoke in greeting to the Sith Knight before turning back to the Moff and taking a seat “Shall we begin?” He asked.

Spoiler: Gear

*Red Lightsaber with Black Hilt
*Exile Inquisition Armor
*SP-20 Blaster Pistol - Two Power Packs
*Six Ball Bearings

@Minuteman75

 

[Artyom]

Artyom stood, disguised, outside the meeting room. He wore a nice, tailored suit and had pulled his long hair back into a neat bun. Inside the jacket pocket of his suit were his two lightsabers, tucked away but ready to utilize at a moment's notice. He watched quietly as the councilman seeking to meet with the Sith arrived. He had come to protect the councilman, just as the Sith had brought a Knight to protect their moff.

Stepping in behind him, he took a position standing in front of the door and added to the man speaking, "Yes, let's begin." The room was beyond tense, with Artyom gathering strength in the Force and prepared himself to strike at a moment's notice. However, he would not be the first to strike under any circumstances. Let the Sith initiate the violence.
@Loco

 

[The Storyteller]

Councilman Ah-Tock had served on the council of Manaan for several decades. He was an older selkath, known for being stubborn and stuck in his ways. As the new leader had emerged victorious he wasted no time making sure everyone knew of his displeasure with the event, flexing what political strength he had to leverage as much resistance to every bill and motion the younger selkath had tried to pass.

He was no fool, he knew this was why the Sith were meeting with him today. He knew they were tired of him making waves, but he had almost expected them to show up with a battalion of troops and forceably remove him. This was not what he had been anticipating, but he still had precautions prepared just in case. The Jedi stayed just behind thankfully, it really did ease his mind knowing he was there afterall. He stroked his chin thoughtfully for a moment as the doors opened to the gentlemen from the Sith Empire awaiting them. His voice was harsh and the natural language of the selkath didn't help this in anyway, his speech sounding almost entirely gutteral.

Greeting and salutations. I had not expected the Sith to have diplomats on standby.

He said, the closest thing to a joke the old selkath could manage. He took his seat opposite the two Sith and settled into his chair, relaxing as best he could despite already feeling a bit tense. He wasn't anxious, but he also wasn't calm. How could he be afterall, with a Sith warrior and junior moff in the room he'd have to be a fool to not feel some level of anxiety he tried to convince himself.

Now, what is this all about? I only ask for the sake of clarity. We selkath like to not "beat around the bush" as it were. Please speak plainly and I shall do the same.

 

[Fennex Zeerda]

Fennex didn't like this world at all- far too wet. So water-y. Much humidity. Terrible. But, on the upside, it was nice to work alongside his old friend Artyom again. Dantooine had turned out to be a real trial on their friendship after the incident with the abominable droid brainwashing apparatus on that poor little girl, but that seemed liked ages ago now. Years had passed. They'd fought together on telos since that, but even that seemed like a distant memory. The pool of Jedi that Master Fennex had fought beside, come to know, and cared about seemed to have been shrinking for some time now. A bit of comradic nostalgia was a good change of pace.

Not that this mission was likely to be without its own problems. Recent events on Manaan had become... unpleasant. Things were tense and tempers ran hot. The political environment here was uneasy, to say the least. Hence why the Councilor had asked for a bit of assistance on this occasion- with the way things had gone, who could guarantee that any meeting with the Sith was entirely safe or free of coercion? And so, the Council had dispatched Fennex and Artyom to keep an eye on things, and to act as Guardians and- if the Slekath wished- advisors. The goal here was to avoid violent complications and undue coercion of the Manaan government. The Selkath were notoriously passionate about their neutrality to the point that it had become a fixture of Galactic politics, and the Jedi were happy to see it remain that way.

Fennex nodded at the Sith as they entered. This was his first encounter with a Sith "pureblood" as they seemed to call themselves, but he recognized former senator Sarlo from Holonet broadcasts. The Amaran offered a polite half bow to the diplomat from the far corner of the room- where he could keep watch on everyone- but was careful to never take his eyes off the two as the Councilor opened the negotiations.


@Black Noise @Raydo @Minuteman75 @anzat17

 

[Zamid Sarlo]

Sarlo, did catch the Selkath official nearly calling him a senator and misspelled his name. Of course outwardly the Moff showed no hint of irritation but rather bowed his head in respect and understanding. To himself though Zamid looked forward to the day when no one will ever call or mistaken him as a senator ever again. I will make sure of it. The old Duros silently vowed.

It was in that moment that he noted the human bodyguard in the suit who actually spoke up. Usually, mercenary types don’t speak during their employers’ meetings. This one acted like he had an actual say in this whole affair, very strange. Then there was the little Amaran as well. It’s one thing to bring a human contractor but a smaller alien as well?

Suspicion amounted in the back of his mind but he acknowledged them both with polite nods, focusing back on the task at hand. Sarlo actually grinned when the Councilman commented about the Sith’s supposed lack of diplomats.

“Well I’m proud to have broken that impression to you good sir.”

Calmly Zamid noted the tension in the air especially from Ah-Tock. The local official was clearly mistrustful of their party’s intentions. Seems I have my work cut out for me. That’s nothing new.

Ah-Tock got to the point and asked him to speak plainly. In that case the Moff will obliged the request. Professionally he answered.

“As you wish Councilman Ah-Tock. We’re aware of your opposition to Manaan’s new policy of strengthening ties with the Sith Empire. I was send here to convince you of our good intentions.”

Linking his gloved hands together Sarlo went on. “Of course Councimam I understand you have doubts about it being fact so please ask your questions and I’ll do my best to answer.”

 

[Zazai Ta'Resh]

Zazai bristled slightly as the human entered the room. He had no doubt the Councilman would bring security to protect himself, it would be foolish not too, but this was more than a mere bodyguard. There was a slight pull, a buzzing in the back of his mind as the man rested against the wall. Zazai's gaze settled on the man from across the room, studying him. His muscles were tense, pulling him to action should the need arise.

Then the second creature entered the room. This was someone he recognized by picture and reputation. Jedi Master Fennex Zeerda. "Excuse me, Councilman. Moff." he said as the Jedi Master also settled on the other side of the room. "You say you speak plainly, but then invite the Jedi to this meeting without our knowledge when we have approached you in good faith, and with the blessing of the rest of your Council. Even now, we work to help your people and the Empress is repaid for her graciousness with underhandedness?" he spoke in a rumbling tone. If the Councilor wanted bluntness, they had sent the right Knight. He was no mere bodyguard either, and it appeared the Moff wasn't aware of the Jedi Master. At least now, he could be more on guard.

This ultimately didn't change their mission. If the Jedi attacked them openly in front of one of their last holdouts to a Sith Alliance, the battle for Manaan would be over. The Sith had had a government to stand behind when the offered something or made promises. The Jedi had nothing of value to offer people of Manaan.

 

[Artyom]

Artyom stood beside the senator as Councillor Fennex entered the room astride him. The presence of the older Jedi comforted Artyom, though his expression did not change from one of strength and calm. In this moment, he was centered in the light side of the Force, and he would not allow brashness nor foolishness to enter into their negotiations.

When the Sith spoke, Artyom countered quickly, but kept his tone calm, low, and peaceful. Of course, if the Selkath councillor sought to speak, Artyom would not dare interrupt him either. But it was necessary, he felt, to point out a slight shade of irony, “Do you wish to call off the meeting due to this fact, Sith? Surely you do not object to our protecting of the councilman, as you protect your Moff.”

This man, not only being a Sith pureblood himself, was dressed in full inquisition armor. He was prepared for battle, and he took offense to the prospect of Jedi protecting the councilman? It was almost laughable.

 

[Fennex Zeerda]

"Alright now," Fennex raised his paws to intervene in what was quickly headed towards a verbal spat that wouldn't do them much good- he sideyed Artyom indicating he should stand down, and then addressed the Sith Warrior who was armed and armored to the teeth at a diplomatic meeting, "let's not get all hyperbolic. Selkath neutrality is famed and respected, so let's not tarnish that with another Sith-Jedi squabble here. We're simply here as observers and advisors if the Selkath want them. If the Councilman would like us to leave, however, so as not to impede your talks, we're happy to do so."

Fennex clasped his paws in front if him and looked to the Selkath for his opinion. The hotheaded pureblood hadnt gotten things off to a great start, but Fen wasn't about to let that devolve into actual hostilities here if he could help it. There had been enough disasters on Manaan already. The Jedi could find another way.

@anzat17

 

[The Storyteller]

The old selkath raised a hand as well, indicating he would like everyone to just calm down for a moment. While he appreciated the Jedi coming and taking such an interest in him, he couldn't deny that their presence there would only anger and send an offensive message to the Sith whom he had agreed to meet with. He sighed, or something that sounded like a sigh for his species, and addressed the jedi.

While I appreciate your help Jedi, you will only agitate my guests here, whom I have agreed to have audience with. Perhaps another time, if you wouldn't mind?

He said before gesturing to the door, not meaning to offend them with the gesture, but he'd be damned if he was going to have Jedi and Sith fighting right next to him. That would be quite disenfranchising to his health now wouldn't it.

Now then, Imperial Moff Sarlo. You ask wjat concerns i may have? It should be obvious to you, i should think, my concerns. My government threatens it's neutrality by dealing with you and yours. What happens when you ask us not to sell kolto to anyone but you? What would happen if you brought your war ships here to force us to? Being friendly with the Sith threatens the neutrality of my planet.

I do apologize for the Jedis intrusion but I was not made aware of it, although their sentiment is again appreciated. I would not use such underhanded tactics as you call them my friend, I don't fancy making enemies out of either of you, but that doesn't mean I have to be friendly with either of you. Neutrality my friends. That is my concern. My world's neutrality in the galaxy. It has kept us safe for generations, and will continue to do so in the future.

@Loco @Minuteman75 @Black Noise @Raydo

 

[Zamid Sarlo]

As Zamid had suspected the guards were indeed Jedi in disguise. It wasn’t too long ago the Duros statesman once looked up to the Order. Now he viewed them as a threat to galactic progress under the Empire’s guidance. Sarlo nearly grimaced as the situation threaten to escalate. Fortunately it did not, due to both the Amaran and Ah-Tock.

Looking at the diminutive ‘peacekeepr’ Sarlo finally recognized it was the Jedi Master Fennex from the reports about notable Jedi. He couldn’t help but think.

This tells me a few things. One the distinct possibility of Jedi agents or at least informants providing them intel about the inner workings of Manaan’s government. Their very presence at this discreet meeting is proof of it. Two the fact that they send one of their key masters with support shows their vested interest in preventing our mission’s success. The question is how deep is Ah-Tock’s involvement with them or did they really came here without his knowledge?

It was something he would have to fill out in his later report. As Zamid concluded that quiet line of thought, councilman asked the Jedi to vacate the room. Sensing an opportunity to win possible some points with Ah-Tock the Imperial Moff turned toward his Sith ally.

“Knight Ta’Resh I think it would be best to demonstrate good faith to our host, I ask that you wait outside too.”

Hopefully the Pureblood would understand the request as a hint to keep an eye on the Jedi and divert their attention. To rule out possible objections from both the Sith or the official Sarlo looked back to the latter and said. “I humbly request Councilman Ah-Tock that a small local security team be called to keep my esteemed colleague and our unexpected guests company while we continue this discussion.”

It wasn’t that Zamid believed the police officers would in fact be a match for any of three force users. However, they all would less likely engage in combat or trickery in front of Selkath witnesses. Neither side could afford to look as the aggressors in the present situation. Once they were gone from the room Sarlo paid full attention to Ah-Tock who willingly laid out his grievances. Displaying a sympathetic expression, Sarlo answered.

“I understand where you’re coming from sir. Thankfully it is my duty to inform you Councilman that her Imperial Majesty’s government has no intentions to violate your nation’s sacred neutrality, fleets or no fleets. We do not desire to prevent Manaan from selling to other parties, even to our enemies. It’s not good business sense to risk turning the only sovereign planet with mass sources of kolto into a war-zone. There would be no real gains for anyone in such a colossal tragedy.”

Your continued neutrality is vital not only to your civilization, but to the greater galaxy as well.”

Pausing to bring out a simple datapad he slided it over to the Councilman for view, before explaining.

“What you are now viewing there is a simple list of planets of that Manaan has never had the privilege of conducting business with. It is at the heart of Sith Space where Knight Ta’Tash hails from. His entire race, the Purebloods have never known the benefits of kotlo and they inhabit these worlds like Korriban, Ziost, Dromund Kaas and many more. We’re offering to help extend Manaan’s business opportunities into a realm no one else had access before until now...”

He allowed the idea of a new source of profit to Manaan’s economy set in to Ah-Tock’s mind before concluding.

“It is the Empire’s sincere hope that your state would in the future recongize us as your most profitable of business partners. Not exclusive by any means but profitable all the same.”

 

[Zazai Ta'Resh]

His agitation spiked when the Moff thought to dismiss him. He had not been sent as some petty servant to this snake of a politician. His jaw tightened ever so slightly as he stared daggers into the man. It would look very similar to the stern look Zazai often had on his face.

He forced himself to remain composed, bowing his head slightly at the two men at the table. "Of Course. I will be outside." he forced himself to say calmly, while entertaining thoughts of throwing the Moff out the window. "Councilor." he said nodding his head once again. He moved across the room, looking it over one last time. He would make sure the Jedi left first. He had only met three Jedi in his life, and they had all attacked him unprovoked. He doubted the Jedi were capable of anything else.

If the Jedi left as well, Zazai would follow, stopping just outside the door as the security forces arrived and stood by outside as well. It was a somewhat tense, awkward situation. Zazai remained vigilante, extending his senses to make ensure the Moff came into no danger but also being mindful of his position outside.

 

[The Storyteller]

The councilman waited for the Jedi to leave, and was actually very thankful that as a kind of professional courtesy he asked the Sith warrior to do the same. That most certainly in his eyes was seen as quite the friendly gesture to be honest with himself.

He listened to the Sith moffs speech and was fairly impressed. While he wasn't much of a business man himself, an additional planet among others to sell to would only be good for his planet, if the Sith were in fact serious about it. He stroked the protrusions on his chin thoughtfully for a moment before speaking.

I appreciate this gesture of yours. I will have a security detail arranged to watch them.

He said before punching a few keys on his datapad and then returning his focus to the Sith representative.

While this is all well and good, I would need more than just a assurance that we will not be blockaded or anything of the like. Were not just talking about destroying the kolto everyone wants so much, I'm talking about taking it all for yourselves.

He didn't say this harshly or with any sort of attitude. He was merely speaking as an old man concerned for the direction his planet might be going.

 

[Zamid Sarlo]

It was very fortunate Ah-Tock appreciated the courtesy that was made. The Imperial Moff watched the Selkath contemplate the benefits of doing business with the Empire with a patient glaze. Moments later the other official specify his concerns, causing Zamid to briefly pause as well.

“If that was the case, such an illegal seizure would’ve happened by now.” He professionally answered before adding. “The fact we’re speaking here today is proof of the Empire’s goodwill. Trust goes both ways Councilman Ah-Tock. Despite the fact two Jedi somehow were able to make an attempt at infiltrating this private meeting I trusted you enough to believe it was done without your consent and you proved it by honorably sending them out.

In turn I convinced my Sith colleague to do the same and leave them all under your security detail’s watch. As for further proof let’s review some recent history. Five years ago, the world of Balmorra was engulfed by violence and chaos due to the fighting between Republic, Jedi, Exile and Hutt forces. Andraste, who soon after uniting the exiles, withdrew them from the planet and personally lead the reconstruction efforts for Balmorra.

I was there as a senator and saw it with my own two eyes, her future Imperial Majesty saving lives despite all the terrible accusations level upon herself by then. She did even more, promising to keep exiles away from Republic space and held true to it, making the non-aggression pact with them possible. Since then the Empire has kept faith with the agreement. We will do same for Manaan, honoring its neutrality.”

Just to make sure Sarlo collected his thoughts before addressing directly the two mentioned concerns

“Finally a blockade or seizing every ounce of Kolto would be counterproductive in the long run. The Sith Empire is a new and independent state, establishing itself. What kind of message would it send to other nations that my government wishes to befriend or trade with? The Empire commits foul robbery of Manaan, a highly respected neutral world for short terms gain? Not only would we be reviled by others but also lose your people’s trust, risking the production of future kotlo in the process.”

He shook his head at the very thought.

 

[The Storyteller]

To say that the Sith representative was saying everything that the councilman wanted to hear would be a perfect assessment of the situation. The Sith moff was incredibly well spoke and did an excellent job at extinguishing the selkaths fears about the relations with the Sith Empire.

While he still wanted to see some proof, he had a feeling that the Sith were going to hold up to their word. There was no real reason to doubt them. If anything there was always Lothal to look to as an example he thought to himself.

The fact that you were a member of the republic Senate and now are a moff speaks highly of you in my opinion. It allows you to see a conflict from both sides with much more clarity. Staying with the Sith means you must have your reasons. It would seem that there is no real reason for us to distrust the Sith I suppose. You can consider me convinced moff Sarlo.

 

[Zamid Sarlo]

A pleasant smile formed on Sarlo’s expression once the Sekath finished speaking. This discussion has proven more of a success than he had actually envisioned. Nodding with gratitude Sarlo replied. “The fact, you’re willing to listen and consider all possibilities says much about your wisdom sir. Her Imperial Majesty’s government will be pleased.”

Standing up from his seat, Moff Sarlo walked over to the local official and shook his hand, commenting. “Farewell Councilman it’s been an honor to speak with you.”

Walking out of the office, he gave a nod toward the awaiting Zazai, letting him know of their mission’s completion. He spared no glance toward the Jedi with the security guards as their party left for the exit on the opposite side. The so-called peacekeepers should’ve thought of a more efficient way to sabotage the meeting than that amateurish attempt they pulled.

Honestly, what did they hope to achieve by pretending to be mercenaries with a Sith Knight present who is able to detect them? Provoke a fight perhaps or maybe they were arrogant enough to believe the councilman would overlook their transgression of coming here uninvited for simply being Jedi?

Either way it worked to the Empire’s advantage. Of course I’ll have to still to recommend that intelligence check Ah-Tock and see if he was innocent of the Jedi intrusion or not. Turning the Sith, he said.

“Well-done Knight Ta’Resh. Your sensing of the Jedi gave us the high ground in that meeting, not to mention your willingness to oblige the councilman as well. I imagine it wasn’t easy to stay out of the meeting with the enemy but it paid off, nonetheless. I’ll let our superiors know of your essential role to these negotiations.”

Spoiler: OOC

The mission is basically finished. Of course feel free to do your own ending posts @Raydo @Loco @Black Noise if you all wish to. Great job, everyone including you @anzat17 for your role as DM.