The oblique figure loomed in the horizons; space grew silent in serenity, all were captivated in the moment. For a brief period of time, the stars shuddered and quaked under the ferocious onslaught among them.

Hundreds of projectile tubes space throughout the Star Destroyer’s keel lined in banks of twenty erupted violently as dozens of lethal detonite warheads surged from the ports vectoring onwards against the particle dampening systems of the enemy thrustship. Orange white plumes of explosive materials ignited as the ballistics gained contact on their target. Durasteel screeched in protest, whining under the heavy physical pressures of the collapsing shield modules all over the ship’s port side.

Suddenly, to the relief of the <!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> Bellicose’<!--EZCODE ITALIC END--> crew, an unmistakable reverberation of the thrustship’s power reactor overloading gave way to cheers of success as the Yevethan thrustship was torn apart in a glittering atmospheric flame of oxygen and hydrogen particles. To certain unforeseen circumstances, a few pilots managed to scramble from their acceleration pods and into their snub fighter cockpits, careening on an uncontrollable course

“Dispatch, signal the fighter screen to move in and scrap up those enemies flyers.” Immediately, a single A-wing squadron broke formation from the main screen, vectoring starboard against the seven enemy snub fighters dispersing in an erratic undirected formation from the explosion. The A-wing squadron broke into four flights of three, each flight vectoring towards an intercept course of four enemy craft. All four flights expended little time in decimating the four lone enemy craft.

The three enemy fighters not targeted in the initial attack gathered together in a shaky flight, pulling to a suicidal speed one of the A-wing flights. Before the flight could respond to the oncoming oppressors, the enemy flight broke up in a corkscrew maneuver that drove through the flight’s center, destroying two A-wings. Driving from the last remaining A-wing, a second friendly flight pulled against the enemies flank and spearheaded a barrage of mini ballistics through their vector.

The flight erupted and tore apart in devastation. Satisfied, the <!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> Bellicose’<!--EZCODE ITALIC END--> launched two more A-wings to cover the squadron’s losses. “Dispatch, recall the squadron to join the main screen. Helm, pull our bow starboard, thirty degrees. We’ll turn up to their aft structure and deliver a starboard broadside. I’ll signal the <!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> Peremptory<!--EZCODE ITALIC END--> to scrap up its target and proceed thirty degrees port side and assault the thrustship against its bow.”

“Sir, the <!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> Bellicose<!--EZCODE ITALIC END--> reports two losses, star fighters. Sensor Imagery is giving us some feedback now.” The commanding officer of the <!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> Peremptory<!--EZCODE ITALIC END--> staggered to his belly as a sudden quaking jolt sent the bridge crew careening under their command stations. The commander rose to his knees, hands clasping the frame of the Tactical Command Console. “Patch the signal into my station console.” Rising to his seat, he frowned in dismay noticing the broken clasp of the acceleration chair’s seat belt. <!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> Damn faulty stang!<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->

Acknowledging the video display receptor, the commander directed insurance against further casualties. “Sir, we’re receiving an update of orders from the Bellicose. I’m feeding the specifics to Helm and Gunnery department now,” reported an officer from Relay. “The specifics?”, asked the commander. “Authorization to engage the final target. Helm has pulled into a thirty-degree yaw portside sir. Once we’ve gained target acquisition, the order to fire falls under your jurisdiction.”

Nodding, the commander replied in finality, “Very well, Helm, make flanking speed. Prepare for a final engagement.”

As the mammoth Yevethan thrustship drew nearer through the range of the Star Destroyer’s weaponry banks, the ship’s fighter screen efficiently and methodically decimated the few strangling enemy snub craft that managed to exit drop bays before the thrustship was destroyed. Flanking the <!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> Peremptory<!--EZCODE ITALIC END--> portside, the screen of B-wing anti star craft fighters flew in a tight claw formation increasing speed for the impending strike.

In a short span of a few casual seconds, the two Star Destroyers met their final opponent all lateral batteries blazing in a flurry of devastation. The <!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> Peremptory<!--EZCODE ITALIC END--> proceeded with a steady drawn out spread of gunfire across the thrustship’s bow, concentrating a synchronized burst of ion spread followed a nanosecond later by a short volley of turbo charged laser weaponry.

The <!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> Bellicose<!--EZCODE ITALIC END--> proceeded along a similar route across the thrustship’s bow, targeting the various oblique gun ports that appeared as numerous blisters along its hull. Using a maximum concentrated spread of ballistics to confuse and overwhelm the thrustship’s counter targeting sensors, the Star Destroyer was able to crack open the shell of it’s defenses with a deafening volley of turbo laser fire.

At once, the simultaneous attack from the two destroyers decimated the out classed thrustship. With a waning ache of steel mesh and fire blazing across her decks, the bulgy, crater of a vessel gave away the sighs of the crew aboard the <!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> Bellicose<!--EZCODE ITALIC END--> and the <!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> Peremptory<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->.

Viewing the calculated precision of his crewmates, Cronus leaned a heavy weight of relief and pride on the Tactical Command Console’s repulsor chair, “Fine job. Damn fine job to all.” Davin looked up from his seat, a smirk upon his features. “Indeed. Although the damn @#%$ did pull a fanciful move with that hyperspace jump to our flank.” At once, the remembrance of the crews, the men and women serving aboard the dead frigate brought both men to an eerie, sorrowful silence. At last, Davin shook the serenity, glancing at Cronus dutifully.

“Shall I give the word to assume thretcon H?”, he asked, a shimmer of a tear forming in his eyes. Cronus nodded solemnly, “And contact the management team for Mechis III operations, I want a garrison quartered there in thirty-five minutes. We’ll leave once we’ve established our own management teams and set up new CI operations throughout the facilities. With a bit of luck, we’ll be able to shove off in forty-eight hours.” Cronus brushed away at the order, heading to the docking bay, requesting a leave of absence from the bridge to accompany the garrison planet side.

Walking down the catwalks of the command bridge to the <!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> Blaze<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->, Davin couldn’t help but feel a wave of cool relief and gratitude to the brave souls who sacrificed their lives to put such a short end to a potentially bloody conflict. “Forty-eight hours,” he muttered to himself, running his fingers through a thicket of glossy hair. “I need a shower.”

Dace shifted slightly in his polarized recliner, and smile of approval spread across his face, stitched with relaxation and relief. His eyes glittered against the burning essence erupting with a constant in the stone walled fireplace. It had been a solid week since his return form assignment in the Coruscant system. His fingers thumbed through an old dusted novel, the scent of age and wear lingering on the cover. <!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> Hello, old friend. It’s been a long time.<!--EZCODE ITALIC END--> He opened the cover, eyes drifting across the lines of the pages, thoughts pursing a fantasy of old, a dream long misplaced and forgotten.

Archon had successfully bought out the 70% ownership of Industrial Automation by the shareholders; Cryonics Industries economic consultants had been precise and accurate in their estimations, and their efforts had paid off as expected. The 70% ownership bought out from the shareholders facilitated an enormous amount of funds into the Cryonics Industries treasury. Utilizing the capitol gained from venture, Cryonics Industries management team arranged for the transfer of the sole proprietorship monopoly over Industrial Automation from the administrative board.

In less than a standard week from the transfer date, Cryonics Industries revenues had sky rocketed 200% over the average annual revenue take. With the holdings of the ironclad droid products, Cryonics Industries quickly expanding beyond all expectations.

Regarding the diplomatic take to the Mechis III and Telti systems, Cryonics Industries diplomatic staff were able to tie peaceful and productive relations between Arakyd Industries, Genetech Corporation, MerenData, and Veril Line Systems; all the pro choice users of the manufacturing facilities located on Mechis III. The four companies agreed to fund a quarterly tariff for their continued use of the manufacturing facilities, this tariff in turn financing the intense maintenance requirements for the Mechis III installations, and granting Cryonics Industries a considerable endowment.

Telti had not faired as well in its diplomatic pursuits. Cybot Galactica had flared an efficient, furious corporate lawsuit against Cryonics Industries in its unconstitutional act of militarily governing the Telti manufacturing. However, certain members of the jury felt otherwise, due to the generous donation from certain Cryonics Industries law offices. Hence, the case was unanimously voted in favor of Cryonics Industries motion to govern the system of Telti as they saw fit. And, their first order of business on the newest piece of corporate property was to see that Cybot Galactica were given an exuberant tariff for their uncooperative attitude, and for their use of the Telti manufacturing plants.

At the present moment however, there were more important issues to be dealt with other than tariff enforcement. Regarding Mechis III and Telti’s defensive initiatives, Corporate Executive Officer Tenloss arranged for a private ceremony to commemorate the sanctioning of Cryonics Industries jurisdiction over the new market, with two highly distinguished guests, Regent Gomorran Kay of the Caprician Regency, and Seth Vinda of the infamous Vinda Corporation.

The meeting was meant for more than a simply commemoration of course. CEO Tenloss perceived the necessities for defending Mechis III and Telti against invasion from a neighboring political or corporate power, and signing on such contracts for the systems defense to two such powers would be crucial in budding relations with the immediate powers dwelling in the galaxy’s vicinity. War never seemed so imminent during the present times, so the CEO felt it best to take all the necessary protocols to keeping Cryonics Industries secure from the daemons of life. Archon was meant to act as receptionist upon their arrival in Korriban, and tour them through the Crown Ace, the most luxurious suites in Korriban, set off 2,000 meters from sea level, in the exotic mountain ranges looming high in the planet’s atmosphere. The seasons had changed to a mild winter; it faired a bright sunny day to Dace’ surprise.

With the guests to be arriving soon, he hurried to dress himself.

Gomorran Kay was always happy to see the Embassy buildings on Onderon. The grounds were purchased from the former Tenloss Syndicate (now Cryonics Industries) before the Clans had returned to Capricia.

<!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> Before the Reconstruction...hell, before becoming Regent.<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->


He remembered his coming onto the starport to avenge Caprician children (especially his son) whose ashes (or rather their expensive urns) were stolen by pirates for profit.

He'd caught the last one in Onderon's orbit and killed him, retreiving his son's remains.

It was on Onderon that his son's ashes had been scattered, the paradisaic grounds proving a more than suitable area.

Onderon held a special place in Gomorran's heart and so, as long as Tenloss held the planet, Gomorran would give special attention to the devious, sometimes ruthless businessman.

He'd enjoyed his stay on the Embassy Grounds. The <!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> Oberth<!--EZCODE ITALIC END--> was in the system, keeping an eye on the Embassy which gave the Caprician Regent a sense of security.


<!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> When did the galaxy become so.. insecure?<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->

Already Parliament members, individual houses were becoming more and more outspoken against the Clan's reign of Capricia.

Scipio Arien's Office of Consular Affairs, or Consular Operations, kept tabs on the worrys of the Ministry of State (Scipio Clan) as well as planetary security. He marvelled how his former adjudant had taken the job with both hands and tranformed government efficiency tenfold.

<!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> As long as we do not experience another devestating invasion as the last one, we can handle the opposition speakers.<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->


**

But now, he was travelling to Korriban and on this flight, Seth Vinda, CEO of Vinda Corporation, was a passenger as well.


<!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> Scipio's reports were very imformative about the enigmatic businessman.<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->

He smiled, <!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> It's good to know that the man does not eat babies.<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->


He glanced over his reports a bit anxious to listen to what plot Tenloss had up his sleeve.

He also very much desired to meet Mr. Vinda.


<!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> This would be my first time.<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->


He looked out the window of the transport taking in the view of nearby mountains.

*A tall, rather imposing figure strode into the area where Gomorrankay was seated, a stewardess, quickly sidled up alongside to meet him...*

"...Mr Vinda is finished with conference room now, he wishes for me to thank you for the use of it..."

"..our pleasure Mr Vega, Mr Cronus has made it very clear he wishes nothing for the best for our esteemed guests.
We shall be arriving shortly, would either you or Mr Vinda be requiring anything else?..."

*Achinta, shook his head slightly , and smiled reassuringly, his long leather coat creaked a little as he clasped his hands behind his back...*

"..not at the moment, thank you, I think Mr Vinda would just like to relax now..."

*Nodding slightly the Stewardess was about to move on to continue with her duties, when a deep voice interjected...*

"..speak for your bloody self!..."

*Another figure emerged from the small doorway, immacutely dressed in a suit and grinning slightly, he bowed his head in greeting to the Stewardess..*

"...I would <!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> love<!--EZCODE ITALIC END--> a scotch if you have any onboard, and is it ok for me to smoke here?..."

*The Stewardess, a little taken aback nodded quickly...*

"..er, no thats fine, we have some imported Tetan scotch, would that be to your taste?..."

*Vinda smiled warmly as he responded...*

"...Tetan eh?...excellent!, I hear its quite good. Yes that would be wonderful thank you.."

*As the stewardess moved on to oblige his request, Vinda took a moment to look around the room, exhaling deeply as he did. As if trying to breath away the stress from whatever his meeting had been about. It had obviously been more stressful than usual, he took a moment to consider the next one he was about to have...*


<!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> ...Mechis and Telti eh?...


...Cronus, you sly old dog....<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->


*Smiling inwardly to himself, Vinda couldn't help but admire the long time asscociate's latest shrewd business dealings. Shrewd, if ruthless, aggressive buyouts was definately one of Cryonics Industries main selling points, and certainly made it an attractive option for further investment. He smirked a little as he thought about this point *

<!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> ...just depends on what it is they are asking for me to invest...<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->

*Whatever the reasons for this meeting, Vinda was in no doubt, it was bound to be lucrative.

The stewardess, returned, interrupting Vinda's thoughts for the time being, and handed him a short square-shaped glass, thanking her , he took a moment to admire the golden beverage, before taking a sip.

Reaching into his inside pocket, Vinda clasped hold of a Cigarra, and chewed on the end slightly, but didn't light it as he moved forward to take a seat beside Achinta.

Just as he was about to speak, Vinda noticed a rather striking shortly cropped white haired individual, seated quietly a couple of seats in front of him. Glancing at Achinta , he walked up to the gentleman and introduced himself.*

"...hello, I don't think I have had the pleasure...

(he extended his hand in greeting...)

"... Vinda, Seth Vinda..."

The shuttles engines whined gently as the repulsorlift coils compensated for the suddenly reduced inertia of its approach to a lateral docking bay built into the Crown Ace. The decks gleamed under the hiss of the gaseous formation under the repuslor unit, creating an airy cloud of steam throughout the immediate vicinity. A faint ‘clank’ resounded through the bay as the landing bricks settled firmly into specially fitted groves carved into the deck to fit the unique SoroSubb series of luxury liner yachts. A landing bridge extended from the front keel of the vessel, as the crew and passengers efficiently disembarked.

Filing down the bridge, Dace, recognized his distinguished guests, and began a casual saunter towards the zone. He picked out two notable dignitaries, the main envoys he was supposed to meet with, one; a fair skinned gentlemen of average build, white chalky hair outlining a distinguished countenance, arguing with a the station manager about displacement of the luxury liner’s cargo holds. The manager, a Bith, seemed arrogant and insistent on protocol continued in a brash argument with the dignitary.

“No, no, no. I want these delivered here.” He pointed to a map of the Crown Ace, “This suite. Got it?” The Bith scratched his head puzzled, then finally shrugged his shoulders in consent. Dace smiled to himself, recognizing the gentlemen as Achinta Vega, cohort and VC chief commercial representative. The droid had a casual aloofness towards his demeanor, and shortly proceeding him, followed the Corporate Executive Officer of VC, Mr. Seth Vinda. The quaint fellow appeared regal, with a sardonically mellow atmosphere hanging about his aura, almost naturally.

Dace reeled back in a bit of shock, not expecting the airy sense from the man. Not without even meeting him. He shifted his attention towards a group of individuals departing from the luxury liner’s boarding ramp, bringing awe and reverence to a proceeding of almost religious significance. A group of five, draped in long cloaks of velvet and leather hides, hands clasped to each other encircled a figure of royalty, one embodying ritual obeisance and commanding respect and obedience from all who dared present themselves before this body.

His dress was exotic varying in shades of white and scarlet, his countenance enflamed with a passion begotten of gods and titans. <!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> Only the Capricians...<!--EZCODE ITALIC END--> Dace collected himself, identifying the figure as Kay, of Clan Gomorran. Approaching the assemblage casually, Dace greeted the parties with a respectful introduction.

“Respectful parties, esteemed dignitaries, I am Dace Archon... your host Lord Tenloss sends his greetings.”

The VC embassy greeted Dace with a courtesy of nods, the Caprician escort bowed in respect, save for Kay, who dismissed him with a wave of his hand.

“With all due respect Mr. Archon, this trip has taken a longer toll of my time than has been wished. If you’d lead, I’d prefer to engage in the proceedings that have called my attention away from Capricia.”

Dace proceeded to speak, but a bemused concern tugging at the back of his mind referred him to choose other words.

“Of course Lord Kay, if you’d follow, I’ll escort you to your suites. I understand it’s been a long tiring journey for your people, and I’m most sure you’d like to refresh yourselves before we start the proceedings.”

Within the following standard weeks, the embassies representing Vinda Corporation and the Caprician Regency engage in fair negotiations with the Cryonics Industries diplomatic bureau on relations regarding the system Telti’s welfare, and as the long drawn out discussion came to their close, Cryonics Industries bargained themselves into open productive relations with two new and highly esteemed customers.