" I am a man of the Jutraalian Empire. Like all officers, I swore an oath to defend it and its leaders, one of which I now am. That means to defend it from anything it may do to itself."

The Grand Admiral steepled his hands in front of his face.

" My government wants no war with the Galactic Empire, nor its Sith protectors. I do not claim to know anything of the Force, but I know it is indeed powerful. I harbor no false hopes of an easy victory should our forces come to blows.

" I believe that as the current officer in charge, it is my duty to see that what has been built does not fall while I am at its helm.

" Your offer is genuine, and I see no reason that personal vendetta mark relations between two governments. The feud of two men should not affect two trillion.

" I want peace with my allies and victory over my enemies. You, sir, are not in the later category."

The Dark Lord leaned back in his chair, relaxing slightly. His eyes danced over the man before him and his senses tested his genuiness. Sensing no ill will, he smiled and stated in as polite a tone as he had in his power.

"I am glad you are a man of wisdom, Inquisitor. Shall we draw up an official truce between our governments?"

Perhaps this was pushing things to far, or perhaps it was a needed step. Soon the Dark Lord would find out exactly to what lengths the Inquisitor was willing to go to ensure peace. The Dark Lord never spent wasted time on false pretenses. It was needless effort. Instead, he chose to focus upon the matters at hand, deal with them as swiftly and efficiently as possible, and then move on to the next.

This was the current matter at hand.. .

" I am ameanable to all things, Lord Maim. An official truce, however, would have to be endorsed by the Imperial government. I could not lay down arms against the richt flank, while the left presses in.

" If that can be so, that I agree and shall so sign. If not, then a simple agreement among gentlemen shall suffice."

The Dark Lord curled a lip a moment, then relaxed once more.

"As I stated previously, this meeting regards the Ancient Sith Empire and the Jutraalian Empire. The New Order's affairs must be handled by their duly noted representatives. As far as the Sith Empire's leadership is concerned, I am the final word. What I say is law, and it shall be so until the council is reformed."

He paused a moment.

"And likely, even beyond then."

A man of true power, thought the Supreme Inquisitor, slipping into a devious mode of political maneuvering.

" Lord Maim, speaking on behalf of the Jutraalian Empire, I consider all past transgressions as such, and order that the future be considered for all future meetings. What has been is such, what shall be is now.

" I foster no animosity to you, Lord Maim. The Sith are welcome to my side, and the side of the Jutraalian Empire. What the Emperor may rule on his return I cannot guess. Until then, this is my rule. And my law."

oops...pretend that was me.

The Dark Lord spoke with a slight smile.

"You are wise beyond your years, my friend. What is now, let no grudge tear asunder. The peace we have made here today shall hopefully stand the test of time and pressure. I have come to respect you, Inquisitor, a rare trait indeed."

The Dark Lord extended his hand, something even more rare for him to do.. in any situation.

The Grand Admiral stood, his uniform forming back to its pressed stance as he walked the length of the table. He extended his as well, and the two shook, slowly and deliberately. Both we testing grips. Each was firm and stern, but neither was offensive of aggressive.

" And I you, Lord Maim."