A takeover of Asation, Belkaden, Muscave, and Improcco among other things.
Belkaden
Over one year ago…
“It is a bold plan that sets the entirety of the Imperial Fleet in motion,” Grand Admiral Zell commented, his eyes scanning the military briefing each line incurring more interest than the last.
“This move could make us or break us..” Grand Admiral Daemon Hyfe commented seated directly across from the other.
They were the only two men in the darkened conference table at a meeting that was not recorded. While Grand Admiral Zell’s visit to First Fleet’s port on Belkaden was not a secret, the media playing it up with benefits and events, this was a chat that never happened.
The room aboard the Attack Sphere Terra Kasar caught the brilliance of Belkaden’s atmosphere creating a greenish-blue illumination within the conference room.
Belkadan, home port of First Sentinel Fleet and the Ebony Vigilance. An out of the way little place that allowed Grand Admiral Hyfe the luxury of choosing his targets with care.
His mind reverted back to the last battle he fought as he and the MIA Vice Admiral Drakiss, together with the hated New Republic launched an all out attack on the Jutraalian Death Star disguised as a diplomatic center around Hoth.
Between the Galactic Defense Initiative, The Jutraalian Empire, and the New Republic, the Empire had to tread carefully if they were to come out on top.
And here they had something that would literally turn the galaxy over on itself.
Yet, if successful…
If successful.
That was the question.
“What do you think, Azrael?” Hyfe asked pointedly.
“My feelings on the matter are not secret Daemon. We had a plan to attack Coruscant since the formation of the Dark Alliance. Hell, it started as a result of their attack on the Ebony Vigilance on Muunilist.”
Zell referred to the triad alliance between TNO, TNSO and TRE/TJE and an attack that was to culminate in the Empire’s Shadows Campaign as they struck the ossifying corpse of The New Alliance. A triad alliance when all seemed secure. Before the Rogue Empire (now Jutraalian) split from the alliance as the New Republic Agents worked hard to sow a paranoia into Fearsons and, fearing he would be attacked by the New Order, aided in The New Republic’s attack on Dantooine. Before the Naboo Sith Order merged with the Empire augmenting their fleet a hundredfold.
“Yes, Fearsons put those plans on the backburner.” Hyfe commented. “That the Empire would need to retake Corsucant for any sort of bid for reasserting our place in the galaxy, my question, Is now that time?”
“General Kaine is correct in his report about one thing. The New Republic is falling apart. And with their merge into the Empire, the Sith have suddenly become an even more menacing threat because our reputation coupled with their power suddenly brings distant corners of the galaxy into reach. We have only to extend our hand. But..” and Azrael Zell frowned, “the plan hinges on quite a lot of factors. If certain things do not play out correctly, our bid for Coruscant could be drawn out into an extended siege. And while I believe we can defeat the New Republic Fleet, it would weaken us. Also, an extended siege leaves us vulnerable to intervention by GDI or the Jutraalians. Emperor only knows how badly Isstal and Fearsons desire to obtain the galactic capital drips from their mouths.”
Daemon Hyfe drummed his fingers on the table as the other spoke, his eyes reading the asset transfers and came to a sudden conclusion. “The report is incomplete.”
“In it, Kaine allocates nearly the bulk of the Imperial Navy to an operation with high potential loss. That we will win seems pretty evident. But the question is, at what cost? What good is winning Coruscant if it costs us 2/3 of our fleet?”
Zell nodded, “The Regent will never approve this operation. Not unless it was undeniably shown that to do otherwise poses a clear and definitive danger to the Empire. And, quite honestly, it doesn’t. But this is something that General Kaine knows. Or he should know.”
“So give us an incomplete report and waste our time? We cannot go to the Regent with this.” Hyfe’s eyes narrowed. “No. Something else is at work here. Simon Kaine acts with reason. He has to know his report as it is will never be approved. He has to know that we will have to inform him.”
“Unless he is looking for nominal command of the entire Navy. Or enough of it to … topple Bastion?”
Daemon laughed. “Now who is paranoid? Kaine threw his ship in front of Republican Fleet at Dantooine. That the man still breaths shows he has the luck of the devil in him. Kaine would not betray the Empire.”
“It is a possibility, Hyfe. And to ignore possibility is to replay disaster. Look at Darth Vader and Palpatine, assuming the Jedi are correct in their assertions. The only things Kaine would know was that his plan, as it is, is not enough for us to take to the Regent for his blessing. But,” and Zell’s eyes narrowed, “He knows that you and I have to meet to discuss it. This is not an operation one discusses over the holonet no matter how encrypted or secure. And by forwarding a hardcopy to me, he knows I must travel to you.”
Grand Admiral Hyfe frowned in slight confusion. “So Kaine knows that when and where we are meeting and why. I don’t see what edge this gives him.”
Grand Admiral Zell came to a conclusion, “Then we need to speak to him. Now. If he has manipulating us this whole time.”
Krake’s Planet – a week ago…
Ysanne Isard walked the empty halls of Krake’s Planet deep in thought, hands clasped behind her back. The “Iceheart” began to feel the chill of the halls as the environmental units were turned low. Every year, the main facilities of Imperial Intelligence underwent an extensive refit as new technologies, new countermeasures, new tools for the espionage world of Intelligence and Counter Intelligence were realized and finally implemented.
The hidden capital of Imperial Intelligence had served Isard well over the years and continued to serve her faithfully, even though publicly the Intelligence Offices were moved to Coruscant.
She needed to keep a pulse on the Regent and the Empire. And Coruscant?…Coruscant was where the galaxy was being shaped.
Representatives from all the Protectorates had their official offices near the Imperial Palace to keep the Regent apprised of what was going on within their portion of the Empire.
But it was not what these representatives said that interested Isard so much as what it was they did not say.
Every Protectorate had their own secrets and their own agendas and Isard had to manipulate and adapt her organization to compensate for these multiple provinces within the Greater Galactic Empire.
On some level, the formation of the protectorates made her job easier where on other levels, it was a complete logistical nightmare. The creation of the ISB, the rise of Military Intelligence (if one could call it that), all these different organizations that arose out of the beauracracy that had become the Empire competed for their portion of glory. And all of them desired the accolades Imperial Intelligence enjoyed (even despite its operational failures). These organizations fell by the wayside as the Empire tottered at the edge of the galaxy on Bastion while Imp Intel thrived.
*
She entered her private room and stared at a map of the Empire with the provinces laid out in different colors. White for the Empire Proper, Blue for the Bastion Conclave, Red for the Corellian Protectorate (the Sith), Yellow for the Yaga Minor Protectorate, and Green for the Mechis Cluster.
The creation of the protectorates gave rise to ability which was a stark contrast to the political foundations of the Empire before.
Before the conquest of Coruscant, those in power were in place due to privilege, money and/or favors rather than ability. The new Imperials to come onto the public scene were a stark contrast with those bygone warlords for they rose due to their accomplishments.
That alone strengthened the Empire a hundred-fold. She herself had seen the inept leadership of before as Imperial Warlords tried to shape the Empire to their image and failed.
Failure upon failure.
But there was a danger with these new, accomplished leaders.
What if one became too strong? What if one decided to become a warlord in their own right?
“Then the Regent will execute them and replace them with someone else,” she muttered to herself. But there was a danger. Her eyes scanned the Yaga Minor Protectorate and a sneer came to her face when she thought of Bhindi Drayson.
The girl was still sucking milk from her mother’s breast while Isard ran the Empire after the fall of Emperor Palpatine.
And she expects me to report to her?
Isard laughed quietly to herself.
She couldn’t be in a more secure position with Drayson to control what information the young welp received. Still, the girl made mistakes. The same mistakes every young person made when they put confidence in their seemingly invincibility. She took for granted the solidarity of her Protectorate and her soldiers when she shouldn’t. Items such as the location…hell, the significance of Krake’s Planet were not things to be tossed around lightly and yet Drayson handled them like so much child’s candy.
But, as with all young people, it took the older ones to mold them into the “Imperial Officers of Tomorrow”. The banner slogan from the Carida Academy flashed across her mind. General Ming was always coming up with such sayings.
Perhaps, in the end, it was General Ming who outsmarted them all by taking a teaching position. Would the future incarnations of the Empire reflect the efforts of Hyfe, Kaine, Gevel, Drayson and Isard? Or would all of them simply end up being a homage paid by future leaders who carried out the ideals taught to them by their instructor, the beloved General Ming?
Her thoughts focused back to Bhindi Drayson. In her darker moments she’d think it was a shame the girl was such an accomplished warrior or Isard would make her disappear .. perhaps share a cell with former Emperor Fearsons.
The ‘emperor’ had requested the company of a lady friend.
Perhaps it was time to throw their one-time adversary a bone. Her thoughts drifted from Drayson to other young women, daughters ..wives even..of internal adversaries that hindered Isard, separating her from her goals. Jenice Arliss came to mind but only briefly. The Arliss wench had wrangled herself out and away from Grand Marshall Kaine which made her usefulness to Isard go up a notch.
Still, she’d be experienced at giving a good screw., Isard’s mind went back to the way the girl was used as a teenage bargaining chip by her father.
Whatever got him the deal to create his corporate empire.
Her eyes moved from the map to her desk with it’s many reports still awaiting her review and, in many cases, approval.
Projects, assignments, Black ops.
One of her better agents, Ciscero, was unaccounted for in this latest attack by TGC. The boy is resourceful. If he is to die, it will be by my hand. Not some stupid alien.
More Black Hand incursions here and there. Joren Logan’s retirement.
Her eyes narrowed at the reports on the old man.
So… Black Hand does have some capacity for ruthlessness..
As she sat down, she glanced at the Protectorate map on the wall.
The Empire was running smoothly, even beset by warmongering aliens and fools.
She saw the undercurrent of enemy confusion and smiled.
Everyone seemed active.
Everyone seemed to be accomplishing something.
Her smile faltered.
Everyone except…. [/i]Kaine.[/i]
That did not bode well with her.
“What are you doing?” she muttered.
Bastion - Capital of the Conclave.. Present Day.
"History is written by the winners." Vassinia muttered as she moved around the wrecked remains of the once New Empire.
Tilaric Birel was painted as the Devil as thoroughly as INS and the Imperial Propaganda machine could present but no one was asking the questions that needed asking.
Why had Tilaric, of the former Freedom Guard Corporation, of the former Imperial Guard, been allowed to become a part of Imperial Intelligence?
Didn't the Empire realize who Tilaric was?
What he was capable of?
It seemed to defy all logic.
Her scanner started beeping.
“What do we have here?” she murmured to herself.
Unknown Planet….. decades past..
The Summer Solstice was approaching. All throughout the region, people began to travel to the capital to experience the Sharing. The Tear of the Sun had fallen and, as it was with all Sharings in the past, it was also time to heal.
A time of Judging..
A time of Repentance.
And a time of Renewal.
Unnoticed by the inhabitants however, a mechanical object fell to their world with all the signs of it being a meteor. However, this object did not disappear in a flash as most meteors did.
This object hit.
And an Imperial Probe Droid emerged.
Belkaden… months ago..
“Standard approach, Mr. Gail.” Admiral Ibren Chandler called as the Imperator Class Star Destroyer Victory entered the system. “Tactical Wings One through Four, drop.”
The remains of an old Imperial Shipyard hung against the dullness of the planet off to the Victory’s port side. Debris, large and small, was seen floating in the quiet serenity of their respective orbits.
Broken pieces of warships, civilian transports…. indescribable pieces of metal that once held form, that once held a function..a purpose.
Just floating here..
“Open a communication channel with planet and let’s see what’s down there.”
Belkadan was one of the first worlds that Simon had taken for the Empire during the reign of the Regent Exceron. Since the world’s conquest, it had become a port to the highly decorated Sentinel First Fleet under the command of a former Grand Admiral Daemon Hyfe. Belkadan had been the First Fleet’s port of choice, being out of the way from most of the major shipping lanes of the Empire.
A nice perch to hold your power until you were ready to strike!
It was the port that had at one time housed the mighty Ebony Vigilance, the Empire’s Eclipse Class Star Destroyer.
It was also the location of the Galactus’ maiden voyage from it’s founding berth.
The shipyard was dark and ominous and as the Victory slowly approached, no life of any sort was detected.
Lights from destroyer shot out catching the yard along it’s under-chassis as Chandler’s crew tried to determine yard’s structural integrity.
The fighters that had launched descended into the planet’s atmosphere intent on sourcing any location of Imperial remnants that would still be alive.
Being cut off abruptly by the New Empire, the planet was all but forgotten as Imperial Center and the galaxy in general reeled from the ravages of the Wrath Virus.
But now the Empire was back, strengthening it’s old ties with worlds it formerly held during the Rebellion.
Now that the Rebellion was over and the Empire stood triumphant, in full vindication of it’s New Order, the only thing that stood between a totally true Galactic Order was the aliens.
But they were a minor matter.
Kaine had started preparations for a major operation very subtly, first focusing on priorities at home. It was time to put the policies of their recent meeting into action.
As with all of the Grand Marshall’s planning, however, the operation called for multiple agendas to be carried out.
Ibren tugged at his fitted black and gray uniform. Everyone of the former Galactic Empire Regiment 256th had come a long way since Sotel.
What would he do when all the wars ended? When the Galactic Empire ruled all corners of the galaxy and peace reigned?
It was something that Chandler rarely thought about but now… being so close ..
Of course, his cynicism then came alive in his mind chiding the Admiral for even having those flights of fancy.
Something always happens..
“Sir! You’ll want to look at this!” an Ensign exclaimed refusing to tear his eyes away from the monitor.
The Admiral walked over and peered at the monitor, his hands folded over his chest.
This assignment had been two fold. One to reestablish former Imperial military outposts and pave the way for future commercial convoys.
Yet, with some of these formerly held Imperial worlds there were secrets to explore and confirm. And with Belkadan a secret indeed was tucked away…only hinted at. Kaine just never had the time to fully explore it and now it was up to the Admiral, his second priority.
Or did he? One never knew with the enigmatic Grand Marshall.
Damn! he thought glancing at the readings.
Something always happens!
The monitor was reading an area covered over by a glacier environment. But that is not what was disturbing to Chandler. It was what was frozen inside.
The readings were confirmed by a flyby from a TIEs.
Readings of a creature that had not lived for thousands of years.
Now what the hell is a Sith doing here?
Hell, what were they doing here?
“Comm. Officer. Send an encrypted priority message to Lupercus Darksword, care of Corellia. Include the results of our test.”
We are going to need an expert on this..
Kaine, what have you gotten us into?
From Lupercus Darksword:
The lecture passed quickly and without incident, the students filing out quickly although something about them was different. Their eyes had a mean and determined look and their movements were cold and calculating, a real sense of emotional detachment having become a part of the group. And at the head of the class, his eyes afire with mirth, Lupercus stood.
"Remember, there is no honour amongst aliens.
Why should you give them deference when they will surely kill you on sight?"
From the back of the theatre an older man approached, his hunched wizened body appearing a quarter the size of the Sith. Before he spoke he adjusted his lopsided glasses with a knobly finger. His smile was warm, bred of mutual interest and intregue.
"Governor Darksword, i had absolutely no idea you were so interested in our line of work...
The Xenophobic arts have been, how shall i put this, shelved lately."
Lupercus smiled broadly, but although the smile was a happy one, it spread no warmth to those that saw it.
"I aquired my Masters in Alien Studies from the Royal Institute on Hapes. It was the reason i received this posting, that i may be able to continue my studies at the Corellian Academy, as well as share my experiances with the recruits as they move towards enlistment.
The Regent has been, eager, to see a return to all the original policies of Palpatines New Order.
That, is why i am here."
He smirked as he retrieved a holodisk from his pocket.
"Professor Ziatsev, I wish to commission you to continue that studies you began as in intern during your time at COMPNOR.
I have all the required authorization to get your team moved out aboard
Kamino….days ago..
Seamus Arliss sat facing the Military Tribunal Council, convened to review Arliss Industries latest request. Having to deal with military types always irritated the business owner since they always tried to impress with power where they had no personal money.
Unfortunately for them, I have both.
“Mr. Arliss,” a rather fat retired Admiral, having won his fame from Fondor and subsequently retiring, was saying, “ surely you are aware of the Biogenetics Accords drafted by the Military Command classifying biomaterial as a military item and as such, a material unable to be allocated to civilian and private agencies.”
Seamus was flanked by his corporate lawyer, Mr. Conrad of Financing, and Jenice Arliss, his daughter and Executive Director of Arliss Towers on Muunillist. All were seated stiffly in their seats and were immaculately dressed.
The lawyer, a white haired and rather pale figure, leaned forward. “Does this also include Bacta?”
“Objection! Irrelevant to the case at hand.” the Imperial protocol droid serving as a legal recorder incorporated.
“Sustained. Mr. Arliss, if you will instruct your lawyer to stick to the relevancy of the case at hand, this Tribunal will not have to hold you in contempt.”
Another Admiral spoke up, relishing the thought of going against Seamus Arliss, “The issue at hand being that your company has petitioned the Military Command for samples of Bioweapons-grade material. Given the ‘Accords’ Policy, we find that this Tribunal cannot, in good conscience, release the material to you.”
Good conscience, indeed! How many Admirals does the Empire have?
Another retired Moff spoke up, a Moff Handler.
Things do not look so dark just yet..
“While my esteemed fellow officers do interpret the Biogenetics Accords truthfully, I feel I must give you the underlying reasoning behind the Accords and the Tribunal’s decision.”
Moff Handler put his hands together and leaned forward. “Mr. Arliss, bioweapons are quickly turning into a commonplace item in the arsenals of both factions and terrorist organizations. It is the Regent’s express decision, as well as the Imperial High Command that such material be handled by none other than military organizations.
By giving access to a possibly virulent biomaterial, we provide an unnecessary risk to our citizenry and Empire at large.”
The fat Admiral broke in, attempting to be the voice of reason, “A private corporation just does not have the suitable security measures to prevent the material from falling into the wrong hands.”
A captain from the Bastion Conclave spoke up, “We will NOT have another Wrath Virus on our hands nor another New Empire!”
Jenice Arliss spoke up, “Biomaterial does not mean bioweapons, however. Surely the Tribunal can see the distinction..”
“Acquisition of suitable biomaterial is the first step to the creation of a bioweapon.”
“Durasteel is the first acquisition for building a planetary defense cannon. I do not see the military regulating durasteel purchases.” Jenice countered.
“Durasteel was not an item for discussion when the Biogenetic Accords were drafted, Ms. Arliss.” Moff Handler answered quietly.
“This is bullshit!” Mr. Conrad whispered to Seamus and Seamus agreed. Military politics were fairly different in nature than those with political offices. “We don’t run into these damned roadblocks when working from Coruscant!”
Because we have the government’s ear on Coruscant! snapped Seamus’ mind irritably. He sighed, ..but what we need is not on Corsucant now. It’s here.
“Moff Handler, this is nothing more than a delaying tactic devised by the regional commander of this planet. The Bastion Conclave cannot be happy with their monopoly over the cloning industry being prevented. However, it must please you to know that we have no intention of raiding any of Kamino’s genetic secrets. They still retain the premier status among cloners galaxy wide.”
“Words..” muttered the Commander, a little too low for Seamus to hear though the expression on his face told all.
“The manufacture of bioweapons is to remain in the hands of the military, Mr. Arliss, whatever the commander’s intentions or feelings.” Moff Handler concluded.
“We are not asking to circumvent the Biogenetic Accords, Moff Handler,” the lawyer continued. “We are not asking for your consent to build bioweapons. We are, however, asking for this Tribunal’s consent to have access to necessary biomaterial.”
“The use of which is strictly restricted by the same Accords!” the fat Admiral nearly shouted. “There is no getting around it!”
“Restricted yes, but no prohibited.” The lawyer countered. “As in the case of Bacta.”
“The definition of Bacta and it’s relation to Biogenetic Accords is still under review.” The retired Admiral commented.
“To give you access to biomaterial is tantamount to giving you our consent to build bioweapons. There is money in bioweaponry Mr. Arliss. Lots of money. Can this Tribunal actually be asked to believe you will turn your eyes from a substantial profit?”
Seamus Arliss smiled at that. “Yes. When there is substantially more to be made with what we are proposing.”
Jenice Arliss spoke up, “Can this Tribunal actually guarantee that if the military retained all biomaterial in their possession, that there will not be another debacle like Wrath loosed upon the Empire?”
The Tribunal shifted uneasily and Moff Handler had the shadow of a smile form on his lips. “No, we cannot guarantee.. .but we can reduce the probability of the military held in security biomaterial.”
Jenice continued, “Of course. No one here is saying that the Biogenetic Accords are wrong! That military protocol is used to secure biomaterial is advantageous. But our proposition rests on one factor. Even with the probability reduced, that small chance is still too high! If something like Wrath was released the damage would still be extensive!
So, does this Tribunal think that the military is prepared to handle the outbreak of a bioweapon. Is the military prepared to combat a weapon of extreme depth and scope should an outbreak occur?”
“The Biogenetic Accords limits access to biomaterial and thus reduces the chance for bioweapons to spread in the Empire but the Accords do nothing to prepare the military for combating either an outbreak or handling the damage it ensues.
And that is where Arliss Industries comes in.”
The lawyer spoke up, “The Invisec Division of Arliss Industries had obtained a military charter to set up Emergency Response Centers on every planet in the Empire. The prime objective of Invisec is to develop counter-agents against bioweapons used against the people of the Empire.”
“There is more profit in curing a person with a sickness than giving them the sickness isn’t it?” Moff Handler commented dryly.
Mr. Conrad spoke up sharply, “Be that as it may, the military is pathetically ill-prepared to handle another crisis on the level of Wrath. We are here to set up that infrastructure to ensure that the Empire can combat an enemy on ALL fronts!”
“The only advantage of the military is logistical support it has in place. But there is no clear line of command and control procedures in place.”
“But what you are asking for is a military responsibility.”
“Which is why Invisec Division is a military charter. This division will be funded by the Imperial Military Budget..”
“..which usually means the department will be flat broke most of the time.” Mr. Conrad inserted.
“..and why Arliss will also direct it’s own resources to make Invisec Division a serious player in military matters involving biowarfare and counteraction. The division will prepare regular status reports and delivered to the officer in charge. The power of the Emergency Response Center will be nearly absolute in the advent of a bioterrorist act, yet every other time completely subordinate to the local chain of command.”
“But the military will not be able to transfer suitable personnel..”
“No. Our operation is highly specific and specialized. Our people are the best at what they do and we intend to use them.”
The lawyer spoke up, “What we are doing today is presenting you with our charter notification and taking the local people’s pulse (as it were) about ERC’s being set up.”
“And to secure available quantities of biomaterial...”
“Absolutely NOT!” barked the fat Admiral. “By all means, give us cures, but you do not need biomaterial…” his voice trailed off as he looked at his fellow Tribunal members. “They do?” he asked.
Moff Handler cleared his throat but it was the Bastion Conclave Commander who spoke, “To test cures one needs the proper medium to work with.” He turned to the representatives of Arliss Industries. “I suppose you will want samples of the Empire’s bioweapons as well?”
“Why thank you, Commander! I had hoped to obtain samples of our own bioweapons. Imperial Intelligence has already agreed to send us samples of any bioweapon material that outside factions are developing so we can work to arm ourselves.”
Seamus shrugged, “but with the rebellions to the New Order, it seems the prudent thing to secure cures for our own weapons should some insanity induce someone to turn our own weapons against us.”
“There is talk of increasing the internal security of the Empire..”
“And it will go a very long way to making sure such insanity never takes one of our officers but better safe than sorry.” Seamus finished smoothly.
Moff Handler smiled. “While you do have a military charter, I find that it is also general due to this being a rather new creation. Therefore, we should meet tomorrow to determine the exact jurisdictions and responsibilities of the ERC’s and how we can insert them into our present Military System with as few problems as possible.
We are adjourned until tomorrow. Same time.”
The Tribunal members and the Arliss Representatives stood in unison. When the members had exited, Jenice let out a breath. “Military pricks.” She said, with little heat.
“I don’t know. Moff Handler seemed to enjoy himself.” Seamus mused.
“He’ll be a problem if he comes down on the wrong side of this.” Mr. Conrad commented packing his notes in his briefcase.
“We have the charter from Imperial Center but it’s up to us to see that it is implemented the way we want with the various districts. Damned military bureaucracy!”
“It’s a damned shame we couldn’t get the Military Budget to cover Invisec’s corporate expenses.” Mr. Conrad mourned.
“No. The clear demarcation line is money. The Empire needs it’s full monetary resources for it’s military operations. And, I’ll not have our company come under military scrutiny. I consented to Invisec because it is necessary to accomplish certain goals!”
“Besides,” Jenice offered, “The Imperial Military Budget couldn’t afford to pay our entire corporate expenses.”
Seamus laughed. “Come all. I know this perfect seafood place about 200 fathoms down.”
*
“Look!” Mr. Conrad pointed to a monitor as they walked across a lobby area to the water transports.
“The fools actually did it.”
“I need to get to the Towers.” Jenice snapped. “I’ll take a rain check on dinner.”
“Of course, my girl. Of course. This plays into our hands.”
And on the monitors the declaration of war spilled out by the Galactic Coalition.
Belkaden
Over one year ago…
“It is a bold plan that sets the entirety of the Imperial Fleet in motion,” Grand Admiral Zell commented, his eyes scanning the military briefing each line incurring more interest than the last.
“This move could make us or break us..” Grand Admiral Daemon Hyfe commented seated directly across from the other.
They were the only two men in the darkened conference table at a meeting that was not recorded. While Grand Admiral Zell’s visit to First Fleet’s port on Belkaden was not a secret, the media playing it up with benefits and events, this was a chat that never happened.
The room aboard the Attack Sphere Terra Kasar caught the brilliance of Belkaden’s atmosphere creating a greenish-blue illumination within the conference room.
Belkadan, home port of First Sentinel Fleet and the Ebony Vigilance. An out of the way little place that allowed Grand Admiral Hyfe the luxury of choosing his targets with care.
His mind reverted back to the last battle he fought as he and the MIA Vice Admiral Drakiss, together with the hated New Republic launched an all out attack on the Jutraalian Death Star disguised as a diplomatic center around Hoth.
Between the Galactic Defense Initiative, The Jutraalian Empire, and the New Republic, the Empire had to tread carefully if they were to come out on top.
And here they had something that would literally turn the galaxy over on itself.
Yet, if successful…
If successful.
That was the question.
“What do you think, Azrael?” Hyfe asked pointedly.
“My feelings on the matter are not secret Daemon. We had a plan to attack Coruscant since the formation of the Dark Alliance. Hell, it started as a result of their attack on the Ebony Vigilance on Muunilist.”
Zell referred to the triad alliance between TNO, TNSO and TRE/TJE and an attack that was to culminate in the Empire’s Shadows Campaign as they struck the ossifying corpse of The New Alliance. A triad alliance when all seemed secure. Before the Rogue Empire (now Jutraalian) split from the alliance as the New Republic Agents worked hard to sow a paranoia into Fearsons and, fearing he would be attacked by the New Order, aided in The New Republic’s attack on Dantooine. Before the Naboo Sith Order merged with the Empire augmenting their fleet a hundredfold.
“Yes, Fearsons put those plans on the backburner.” Hyfe commented. “That the Empire would need to retake Corsucant for any sort of bid for reasserting our place in the galaxy, my question, Is now that time?”
“General Kaine is correct in his report about one thing. The New Republic is falling apart. And with their merge into the Empire, the Sith have suddenly become an even more menacing threat because our reputation coupled with their power suddenly brings distant corners of the galaxy into reach. We have only to extend our hand. But..” and Azrael Zell frowned, “the plan hinges on quite a lot of factors. If certain things do not play out correctly, our bid for Coruscant could be drawn out into an extended siege. And while I believe we can defeat the New Republic Fleet, it would weaken us. Also, an extended siege leaves us vulnerable to intervention by GDI or the Jutraalians. Emperor only knows how badly Isstal and Fearsons desire to obtain the galactic capital drips from their mouths.”
Daemon Hyfe drummed his fingers on the table as the other spoke, his eyes reading the asset transfers and came to a sudden conclusion. “The report is incomplete.”
“In it, Kaine allocates nearly the bulk of the Imperial Navy to an operation with high potential loss. That we will win seems pretty evident. But the question is, at what cost? What good is winning Coruscant if it costs us 2/3 of our fleet?”
Zell nodded, “The Regent will never approve this operation. Not unless it was undeniably shown that to do otherwise poses a clear and definitive danger to the Empire. And, quite honestly, it doesn’t. But this is something that General Kaine knows. Or he should know.”
“So give us an incomplete report and waste our time? We cannot go to the Regent with this.” Hyfe’s eyes narrowed. “No. Something else is at work here. Simon Kaine acts with reason. He has to know his report as it is will never be approved. He has to know that we will have to inform him.”
“Unless he is looking for nominal command of the entire Navy. Or enough of it to … topple Bastion?”
Daemon laughed. “Now who is paranoid? Kaine threw his ship in front of Republican Fleet at Dantooine. That the man still breaths shows he has the luck of the devil in him. Kaine would not betray the Empire.”
“It is a possibility, Hyfe. And to ignore possibility is to replay disaster. Look at Darth Vader and Palpatine, assuming the Jedi are correct in their assertions. The only things Kaine would know was that his plan, as it is, is not enough for us to take to the Regent for his blessing. But,” and Zell’s eyes narrowed, “He knows that you and I have to meet to discuss it. This is not an operation one discusses over the holonet no matter how encrypted or secure. And by forwarding a hardcopy to me, he knows I must travel to you.”
Grand Admiral Hyfe frowned in slight confusion. “So Kaine knows that when and where we are meeting and why. I don’t see what edge this gives him.”
Grand Admiral Zell came to a conclusion, “Then we need to speak to him. Now. If he has manipulating us this whole time.”
Krake’s Planet – a week ago…
Ysanne Isard walked the empty halls of Krake’s Planet deep in thought, hands clasped behind her back. The “Iceheart” began to feel the chill of the halls as the environmental units were turned low. Every year, the main facilities of Imperial Intelligence underwent an extensive refit as new technologies, new countermeasures, new tools for the espionage world of Intelligence and Counter Intelligence were realized and finally implemented.
The hidden capital of Imperial Intelligence had served Isard well over the years and continued to serve her faithfully, even though publicly the Intelligence Offices were moved to Coruscant.
She needed to keep a pulse on the Regent and the Empire. And Coruscant?…Coruscant was where the galaxy was being shaped.
Representatives from all the Protectorates had their official offices near the Imperial Palace to keep the Regent apprised of what was going on within their portion of the Empire.
But it was not what these representatives said that interested Isard so much as what it was they did not say.
Every Protectorate had their own secrets and their own agendas and Isard had to manipulate and adapt her organization to compensate for these multiple provinces within the Greater Galactic Empire.
On some level, the formation of the protectorates made her job easier where on other levels, it was a complete logistical nightmare. The creation of the ISB, the rise of Military Intelligence (if one could call it that), all these different organizations that arose out of the beauracracy that had become the Empire competed for their portion of glory. And all of them desired the accolades Imperial Intelligence enjoyed (even despite its operational failures). These organizations fell by the wayside as the Empire tottered at the edge of the galaxy on Bastion while Imp Intel thrived.
*
She entered her private room and stared at a map of the Empire with the provinces laid out in different colors. White for the Empire Proper, Blue for the Bastion Conclave, Red for the Corellian Protectorate (the Sith), Yellow for the Yaga Minor Protectorate, and Green for the Mechis Cluster.
The creation of the protectorates gave rise to ability which was a stark contrast to the political foundations of the Empire before.
Before the conquest of Coruscant, those in power were in place due to privilege, money and/or favors rather than ability. The new Imperials to come onto the public scene were a stark contrast with those bygone warlords for they rose due to their accomplishments.
That alone strengthened the Empire a hundred-fold. She herself had seen the inept leadership of before as Imperial Warlords tried to shape the Empire to their image and failed.
Failure upon failure.
But there was a danger with these new, accomplished leaders.
What if one became too strong? What if one decided to become a warlord in their own right?
“Then the Regent will execute them and replace them with someone else,” she muttered to herself. But there was a danger. Her eyes scanned the Yaga Minor Protectorate and a sneer came to her face when she thought of Bhindi Drayson.
The girl was still sucking milk from her mother’s breast while Isard ran the Empire after the fall of Emperor Palpatine.
And she expects me to report to her?
Isard laughed quietly to herself.
She couldn’t be in a more secure position with Drayson to control what information the young welp received. Still, the girl made mistakes. The same mistakes every young person made when they put confidence in their seemingly invincibility. She took for granted the solidarity of her Protectorate and her soldiers when she shouldn’t. Items such as the location…hell, the significance of Krake’s Planet were not things to be tossed around lightly and yet Drayson handled them like so much child’s candy.
But, as with all young people, it took the older ones to mold them into the “Imperial Officers of Tomorrow”. The banner slogan from the Carida Academy flashed across her mind. General Ming was always coming up with such sayings.
Perhaps, in the end, it was General Ming who outsmarted them all by taking a teaching position. Would the future incarnations of the Empire reflect the efforts of Hyfe, Kaine, Gevel, Drayson and Isard? Or would all of them simply end up being a homage paid by future leaders who carried out the ideals taught to them by their instructor, the beloved General Ming?
Her thoughts focused back to Bhindi Drayson. In her darker moments she’d think it was a shame the girl was such an accomplished warrior or Isard would make her disappear .. perhaps share a cell with former Emperor Fearsons.
The ‘emperor’ had requested the company of a lady friend.
Perhaps it was time to throw their one-time adversary a bone. Her thoughts drifted from Drayson to other young women, daughters ..wives even..of internal adversaries that hindered Isard, separating her from her goals. Jenice Arliss came to mind but only briefly. The Arliss wench had wrangled herself out and away from Grand Marshall Kaine which made her usefulness to Isard go up a notch.
Still, she’d be experienced at giving a good screw., Isard’s mind went back to the way the girl was used as a teenage bargaining chip by her father.
Whatever got him the deal to create his corporate empire.
Her eyes moved from the map to her desk with it’s many reports still awaiting her review and, in many cases, approval.
Projects, assignments, Black ops.
One of her better agents, Ciscero, was unaccounted for in this latest attack by TGC. The boy is resourceful. If he is to die, it will be by my hand. Not some stupid alien.
More Black Hand incursions here and there. Joren Logan’s retirement.
Her eyes narrowed at the reports on the old man.
So… Black Hand does have some capacity for ruthlessness..
As she sat down, she glanced at the Protectorate map on the wall.
The Empire was running smoothly, even beset by warmongering aliens and fools.
She saw the undercurrent of enemy confusion and smiled.
Everyone seemed active.
Everyone seemed to be accomplishing something.
Her smile faltered.
Everyone except…. [/i]Kaine.[/i]
That did not bode well with her.
“What are you doing?” she muttered.
Bastion - Capital of the Conclave.. Present Day.
"History is written by the winners." Vassinia muttered as she moved around the wrecked remains of the once New Empire.
Tilaric Birel was painted as the Devil as thoroughly as INS and the Imperial Propaganda machine could present but no one was asking the questions that needed asking.
Why had Tilaric, of the former Freedom Guard Corporation, of the former Imperial Guard, been allowed to become a part of Imperial Intelligence?
Didn't the Empire realize who Tilaric was?
What he was capable of?
It seemed to defy all logic.
Her scanner started beeping.
“What do we have here?” she murmured to herself.
Unknown Planet….. decades past..
The Summer Solstice was approaching. All throughout the region, people began to travel to the capital to experience the Sharing. The Tear of the Sun had fallen and, as it was with all Sharings in the past, it was also time to heal.
A time of Judging..
A time of Repentance.
And a time of Renewal.
Unnoticed by the inhabitants however, a mechanical object fell to their world with all the signs of it being a meteor. However, this object did not disappear in a flash as most meteors did.
This object hit.
And an Imperial Probe Droid emerged.
Belkaden… months ago..
“Standard approach, Mr. Gail.” Admiral Ibren Chandler called as the Imperator Class Star Destroyer Victory entered the system. “Tactical Wings One through Four, drop.”
The remains of an old Imperial Shipyard hung against the dullness of the planet off to the Victory’s port side. Debris, large and small, was seen floating in the quiet serenity of their respective orbits.
Broken pieces of warships, civilian transports…. indescribable pieces of metal that once held form, that once held a function..a purpose.
Just floating here..
“Open a communication channel with planet and let’s see what’s down there.”
Belkadan was one of the first worlds that Simon had taken for the Empire during the reign of the Regent Exceron. Since the world’s conquest, it had become a port to the highly decorated Sentinel First Fleet under the command of a former Grand Admiral Daemon Hyfe. Belkadan had been the First Fleet’s port of choice, being out of the way from most of the major shipping lanes of the Empire.
A nice perch to hold your power until you were ready to strike!
It was the port that had at one time housed the mighty Ebony Vigilance, the Empire’s Eclipse Class Star Destroyer.
It was also the location of the Galactus’ maiden voyage from it’s founding berth.
The shipyard was dark and ominous and as the Victory slowly approached, no life of any sort was detected.
Lights from destroyer shot out catching the yard along it’s under-chassis as Chandler’s crew tried to determine yard’s structural integrity.
The fighters that had launched descended into the planet’s atmosphere intent on sourcing any location of Imperial remnants that would still be alive.
Being cut off abruptly by the New Empire, the planet was all but forgotten as Imperial Center and the galaxy in general reeled from the ravages of the Wrath Virus.
But now the Empire was back, strengthening it’s old ties with worlds it formerly held during the Rebellion.
Now that the Rebellion was over and the Empire stood triumphant, in full vindication of it’s New Order, the only thing that stood between a totally true Galactic Order was the aliens.
But they were a minor matter.
Kaine had started preparations for a major operation very subtly, first focusing on priorities at home. It was time to put the policies of their recent meeting into action.
As with all of the Grand Marshall’s planning, however, the operation called for multiple agendas to be carried out.
Ibren tugged at his fitted black and gray uniform. Everyone of the former Galactic Empire Regiment 256th had come a long way since Sotel.
What would he do when all the wars ended? When the Galactic Empire ruled all corners of the galaxy and peace reigned?
It was something that Chandler rarely thought about but now… being so close ..
Of course, his cynicism then came alive in his mind chiding the Admiral for even having those flights of fancy.
Something always happens..
“Sir! You’ll want to look at this!” an Ensign exclaimed refusing to tear his eyes away from the monitor.
The Admiral walked over and peered at the monitor, his hands folded over his chest.
This assignment had been two fold. One to reestablish former Imperial military outposts and pave the way for future commercial convoys.
Yet, with some of these formerly held Imperial worlds there were secrets to explore and confirm. And with Belkadan a secret indeed was tucked away…only hinted at. Kaine just never had the time to fully explore it and now it was up to the Admiral, his second priority.
Or did he? One never knew with the enigmatic Grand Marshall.
Damn! he thought glancing at the readings.
Something always happens!
The monitor was reading an area covered over by a glacier environment. But that is not what was disturbing to Chandler. It was what was frozen inside.
The readings were confirmed by a flyby from a TIEs.
Readings of a creature that had not lived for thousands of years.
Now what the hell is a Sith doing here?
Hell, what were they doing here?
“Comm. Officer. Send an encrypted priority message to Lupercus Darksword, care of Corellia. Include the results of our test.”
We are going to need an expert on this..
Kaine, what have you gotten us into?
From Lupercus Darksword:
The lecture passed quickly and without incident, the students filing out quickly although something about them was different. Their eyes had a mean and determined look and their movements were cold and calculating, a real sense of emotional detachment having become a part of the group. And at the head of the class, his eyes afire with mirth, Lupercus stood.
"Remember, there is no honour amongst aliens.
Why should you give them deference when they will surely kill you on sight?"
From the back of the theatre an older man approached, his hunched wizened body appearing a quarter the size of the Sith. Before he spoke he adjusted his lopsided glasses with a knobly finger. His smile was warm, bred of mutual interest and intregue.
"Governor Darksword, i had absolutely no idea you were so interested in our line of work...
The Xenophobic arts have been, how shall i put this, shelved lately."
Lupercus smiled broadly, but although the smile was a happy one, it spread no warmth to those that saw it.
"I aquired my Masters in Alien Studies from the Royal Institute on Hapes. It was the reason i received this posting, that i may be able to continue my studies at the Corellian Academy, as well as share my experiances with the recruits as they move towards enlistment.
The Regent has been, eager, to see a return to all the original policies of Palpatines New Order.
That, is why i am here."
He smirked as he retrieved a holodisk from his pocket.
"Professor Ziatsev, I wish to commission you to continue that studies you began as in intern during your time at COMPNOR.
I have all the required authorization to get your team moved out aboard
Kamino….days ago..
Seamus Arliss sat facing the Military Tribunal Council, convened to review Arliss Industries latest request. Having to deal with military types always irritated the business owner since they always tried to impress with power where they had no personal money.
Unfortunately for them, I have both.
“Mr. Arliss,” a rather fat retired Admiral, having won his fame from Fondor and subsequently retiring, was saying, “ surely you are aware of the Biogenetics Accords drafted by the Military Command classifying biomaterial as a military item and as such, a material unable to be allocated to civilian and private agencies.”
Seamus was flanked by his corporate lawyer, Mr. Conrad of Financing, and Jenice Arliss, his daughter and Executive Director of Arliss Towers on Muunillist. All were seated stiffly in their seats and were immaculately dressed.
The lawyer, a white haired and rather pale figure, leaned forward. “Does this also include Bacta?”
“Objection! Irrelevant to the case at hand.” the Imperial protocol droid serving as a legal recorder incorporated.
“Sustained. Mr. Arliss, if you will instruct your lawyer to stick to the relevancy of the case at hand, this Tribunal will not have to hold you in contempt.”
Another Admiral spoke up, relishing the thought of going against Seamus Arliss, “The issue at hand being that your company has petitioned the Military Command for samples of Bioweapons-grade material. Given the ‘Accords’ Policy, we find that this Tribunal cannot, in good conscience, release the material to you.”
Good conscience, indeed! How many Admirals does the Empire have?
Another retired Moff spoke up, a Moff Handler.
Things do not look so dark just yet..
“While my esteemed fellow officers do interpret the Biogenetics Accords truthfully, I feel I must give you the underlying reasoning behind the Accords and the Tribunal’s decision.”
Moff Handler put his hands together and leaned forward. “Mr. Arliss, bioweapons are quickly turning into a commonplace item in the arsenals of both factions and terrorist organizations. It is the Regent’s express decision, as well as the Imperial High Command that such material be handled by none other than military organizations.
By giving access to a possibly virulent biomaterial, we provide an unnecessary risk to our citizenry and Empire at large.”
The fat Admiral broke in, attempting to be the voice of reason, “A private corporation just does not have the suitable security measures to prevent the material from falling into the wrong hands.”
A captain from the Bastion Conclave spoke up, “We will NOT have another Wrath Virus on our hands nor another New Empire!”
Jenice Arliss spoke up, “Biomaterial does not mean bioweapons, however. Surely the Tribunal can see the distinction..”
“Acquisition of suitable biomaterial is the first step to the creation of a bioweapon.”
“Durasteel is the first acquisition for building a planetary defense cannon. I do not see the military regulating durasteel purchases.” Jenice countered.
“Durasteel was not an item for discussion when the Biogenetic Accords were drafted, Ms. Arliss.” Moff Handler answered quietly.
“This is bullshit!” Mr. Conrad whispered to Seamus and Seamus agreed. Military politics were fairly different in nature than those with political offices. “We don’t run into these damned roadblocks when working from Coruscant!”
Because we have the government’s ear on Coruscant! snapped Seamus’ mind irritably. He sighed, ..but what we need is not on Corsucant now. It’s here.
“Moff Handler, this is nothing more than a delaying tactic devised by the regional commander of this planet. The Bastion Conclave cannot be happy with their monopoly over the cloning industry being prevented. However, it must please you to know that we have no intention of raiding any of Kamino’s genetic secrets. They still retain the premier status among cloners galaxy wide.”
“Words..” muttered the Commander, a little too low for Seamus to hear though the expression on his face told all.
“The manufacture of bioweapons is to remain in the hands of the military, Mr. Arliss, whatever the commander’s intentions or feelings.” Moff Handler concluded.
“We are not asking to circumvent the Biogenetic Accords, Moff Handler,” the lawyer continued. “We are not asking for your consent to build bioweapons. We are, however, asking for this Tribunal’s consent to have access to necessary biomaterial.”
“The use of which is strictly restricted by the same Accords!” the fat Admiral nearly shouted. “There is no getting around it!”
“Restricted yes, but no prohibited.” The lawyer countered. “As in the case of Bacta.”
“The definition of Bacta and it’s relation to Biogenetic Accords is still under review.” The retired Admiral commented.
“To give you access to biomaterial is tantamount to giving you our consent to build bioweapons. There is money in bioweaponry Mr. Arliss. Lots of money. Can this Tribunal actually be asked to believe you will turn your eyes from a substantial profit?”
Seamus Arliss smiled at that. “Yes. When there is substantially more to be made with what we are proposing.”
Jenice Arliss spoke up, “Can this Tribunal actually guarantee that if the military retained all biomaterial in their possession, that there will not be another debacle like Wrath loosed upon the Empire?”
The Tribunal shifted uneasily and Moff Handler had the shadow of a smile form on his lips. “No, we cannot guarantee.. .but we can reduce the probability of the military held in security biomaterial.”
Jenice continued, “Of course. No one here is saying that the Biogenetic Accords are wrong! That military protocol is used to secure biomaterial is advantageous. But our proposition rests on one factor. Even with the probability reduced, that small chance is still too high! If something like Wrath was released the damage would still be extensive!
So, does this Tribunal think that the military is prepared to handle the outbreak of a bioweapon. Is the military prepared to combat a weapon of extreme depth and scope should an outbreak occur?”
“The Biogenetic Accords limits access to biomaterial and thus reduces the chance for bioweapons to spread in the Empire but the Accords do nothing to prepare the military for combating either an outbreak or handling the damage it ensues.
And that is where Arliss Industries comes in.”
The lawyer spoke up, “The Invisec Division of Arliss Industries had obtained a military charter to set up Emergency Response Centers on every planet in the Empire. The prime objective of Invisec is to develop counter-agents against bioweapons used against the people of the Empire.”
“There is more profit in curing a person with a sickness than giving them the sickness isn’t it?” Moff Handler commented dryly.
Mr. Conrad spoke up sharply, “Be that as it may, the military is pathetically ill-prepared to handle another crisis on the level of Wrath. We are here to set up that infrastructure to ensure that the Empire can combat an enemy on ALL fronts!”
“The only advantage of the military is logistical support it has in place. But there is no clear line of command and control procedures in place.”
“But what you are asking for is a military responsibility.”
“Which is why Invisec Division is a military charter. This division will be funded by the Imperial Military Budget..”
“..which usually means the department will be flat broke most of the time.” Mr. Conrad inserted.
“..and why Arliss will also direct it’s own resources to make Invisec Division a serious player in military matters involving biowarfare and counteraction. The division will prepare regular status reports and delivered to the officer in charge. The power of the Emergency Response Center will be nearly absolute in the advent of a bioterrorist act, yet every other time completely subordinate to the local chain of command.”
“But the military will not be able to transfer suitable personnel..”
“No. Our operation is highly specific and specialized. Our people are the best at what they do and we intend to use them.”
The lawyer spoke up, “What we are doing today is presenting you with our charter notification and taking the local people’s pulse (as it were) about ERC’s being set up.”
“And to secure available quantities of biomaterial...”
“Absolutely NOT!” barked the fat Admiral. “By all means, give us cures, but you do not need biomaterial…” his voice trailed off as he looked at his fellow Tribunal members. “They do?” he asked.
Moff Handler cleared his throat but it was the Bastion Conclave Commander who spoke, “To test cures one needs the proper medium to work with.” He turned to the representatives of Arliss Industries. “I suppose you will want samples of the Empire’s bioweapons as well?”
“Why thank you, Commander! I had hoped to obtain samples of our own bioweapons. Imperial Intelligence has already agreed to send us samples of any bioweapon material that outside factions are developing so we can work to arm ourselves.”
Seamus shrugged, “but with the rebellions to the New Order, it seems the prudent thing to secure cures for our own weapons should some insanity induce someone to turn our own weapons against us.”
“There is talk of increasing the internal security of the Empire..”
“And it will go a very long way to making sure such insanity never takes one of our officers but better safe than sorry.” Seamus finished smoothly.
Moff Handler smiled. “While you do have a military charter, I find that it is also general due to this being a rather new creation. Therefore, we should meet tomorrow to determine the exact jurisdictions and responsibilities of the ERC’s and how we can insert them into our present Military System with as few problems as possible.
We are adjourned until tomorrow. Same time.”
The Tribunal members and the Arliss Representatives stood in unison. When the members had exited, Jenice let out a breath. “Military pricks.” She said, with little heat.
“I don’t know. Moff Handler seemed to enjoy himself.” Seamus mused.
“He’ll be a problem if he comes down on the wrong side of this.” Mr. Conrad commented packing his notes in his briefcase.
“We have the charter from Imperial Center but it’s up to us to see that it is implemented the way we want with the various districts. Damned military bureaucracy!”
“It’s a damned shame we couldn’t get the Military Budget to cover Invisec’s corporate expenses.” Mr. Conrad mourned.
“No. The clear demarcation line is money. The Empire needs it’s full monetary resources for it’s military operations. And, I’ll not have our company come under military scrutiny. I consented to Invisec because it is necessary to accomplish certain goals!”
“Besides,” Jenice offered, “The Imperial Military Budget couldn’t afford to pay our entire corporate expenses.”
Seamus laughed. “Come all. I know this perfect seafood place about 200 fathoms down.”
*
“Look!” Mr. Conrad pointed to a monitor as they walked across a lobby area to the water transports.
“The fools actually did it.”
“I need to get to the Towers.” Jenice snapped. “I’ll take a rain check on dinner.”
“Of course, my girl. Of course. This plays into our hands.”
And on the monitors the declaration of war spilled out by the Galactic Coalition.