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[SWAW] The Rival (28)
Ladro,
The take on that convoy was truly amazing. The entire haul, including the ships, is worth nearly 200 million credits (before the Alliance cut). The shipment includes no weaponry, but does have enough ship's consumables to completely restock the Far Orbit. This costs 18,000,000 credits off the Far Orbit's cut. The Alliance awards you a million for the destruction of the New Star, and Mon Mothma's aide indicates they would have paid more for the ship intact, but understand your decision was made in the field. It's truly an impressive take.
Did you keep the crew together after the handover, or bring the Far Orbit to port and grant them leave?
Major Cet Willak has been investigating the saboteurs for a week now, day and night. He's been thorough, but hasn't made an accusations, you've heard rumors and a bit of scuttlebutt, but he's pursued everyone and anyone who had access to the engine room or the exterior. He's brough in a pair of Imperial engineers, both cousins, to present his findings. You've read the report, they're guilty. Did it for credits, plus they have another cousin who lives on Saccoria, smack dab in the Core Worlds. Cet waited until they took payment for the work through an indirect network, then he brought in Amarath and a half squad of Naval Troopers along with a pair of non-human merc, just to be a goodly mix of Far Orbit personnel to close it out. What are you going to do with them?
General Lens Reekeene has scheduled a meeting with you after this one. You have a strong feeling she's going to be heading out with the Roughnecks on a new mission. Her team took a minimal share for their part in the effort. Less than was fair, honestly.
How public were you about the payment of the droids?
The take on that convoy was truly amazing. The entire haul, including the ships, is worth nearly 200 million credits (before the Alliance cut). The shipment includes no weaponry, but does have enough ship's consumables to completely restock the Far Orbit. This costs 18,000,000 credits off the Far Orbit's cut. The Alliance awards you a million for the destruction of the New Star, and Mon Mothma's aide indicates they would have paid more for the ship intact, but understand your decision was made in the field. It's truly an impressive take.
Did you keep the crew together after the handover, or bring the Far Orbit to port and grant them leave?
Major Cet Willak has been investigating the saboteurs for a week now, day and night. He's been thorough, but hasn't made an accusations, you've heard rumors and a bit of scuttlebutt, but he's pursued everyone and anyone who had access to the engine room or the exterior. He's brough in a pair of Imperial engineers, both cousins, to present his findings. You've read the report, they're guilty. Did it for credits, plus they have another cousin who lives on Saccoria, smack dab in the Core Worlds. Cet waited until they took payment for the work through an indirect network, then he brought in Amarath and a half squad of Naval Troopers along with a pair of non-human merc, just to be a goodly mix of Far Orbit personnel to close it out. What are you going to do with them?
General Lens Reekeene has scheduled a meeting with you after this one. You have a strong feeling she's going to be heading out with the Roughnecks on a new mission. Her team took a minimal share for their part in the effort. Less than was fair, honestly.
How public were you about the payment of the droids?
Comments
"Major Willak, this is excellent work. Thank you. Please detain these two for now, and arrange for two extra coffins for the funeral tomorrow." I give the two saboteurs my most wolfish grin. "No need for flags or regalia for the last two, Major. Purely functional."
As to the droids? I was public, in that the payments are listed on the share-out spreadsheet, along with mine and the crew's and all the others. I don't shout it from the comms, but I don't hide it either. The information is available for anyone that cares to look, after the best haul they've ever had.
I'm aware that Lens and the Roughnecks are leaving soon. Hoping I can talk her into staying for tomorrow's ceremony, but I'll accept it if she's reluctant.
I have a fleeting thought. Could Sark get to the cousin on Saccoria? Would that be worth the contact?
I let them go, ignoring the saboteur's words. Once I'm alone, I pause to consider what I will say at the funeral. Both in honor of those who died, and regarding these criminals. After I have my thoughts in order, I'll comm Lens. "General, do you want to come to me, or shall I come to you?"
"I'll come your way, Captain Vos," is her quick response. Within a minute, she arrives, dressed in uniform that fits nicely and looks very impressive. She gives a curt salute, then has a seat when you offer. "The Roughnecks have a ripe new mission. We're leaving after the funerals. It's been a pleasure, but I know the Far Orbit is in good hands."
I return the salute. "It's been good having you aboard, General Reekeene, and I wish you luck. As to the Far Orbit, well, who was it that said flying is just falling and forgetting to hit the ground? Thank you for your faith."
Lens chuckles, "Hard not to have faith in someone who saved my keyster more than once, you know?" She slaps the table once, smiling. "I hope Mikka didn't step on Squall's toes too much. Did ze ever complain about my man? Not that I'd blame zir."
I shake my head. "Ze was frustrated that he didn't back zir on the sabotage, but never seemed angry, really. Squall has learned so much while you've been with us, just from Mikka's manner and his way with people, not to mention his skill as an engineer." I chuckle. "Have you heard? She and Amarath plan on getting married. Apparently, I'm officiating."
"Hah!" Lens says as she slaps the table again. "You're just trying to keep me here, Ladro. My love of weddings is well known. An Achilles heel. I think it's the free booze and dancing afterwards." She grins, then rocks herself up to a standing position. "I hope to check in on you and yours from time to time. Mikka thinks the world of your little engineer. Come on, it's just us, give me a hug before we have to get official when I leave." She walks over to wait for you to rise.
Anything more before the funeral?
I stand, of course. Pull her into a frank and unreserved hug. "Lens... the first time I pulled your space-heinie out of the fire was one of the best things that ever happened to me." I pull back and give her a grin. "If I didn't think Mikka would brain me with a hydrospanner, I'd steal you away for a little tryst before you go."
And no, other than the day-to-day business of the ship, there's nothing before the funeral.
A single mournful song is sung by one of the mercs, a human named Cemma the Younger, a handsome and cocky man most of the time, but he's respectful for this ceremony.
As the funeral proceedings move along, there are no tears or anything emotional, but the ex-Imperials are certainly marking the occasion, and the green Alliance troops are trying to follow that lead.
How does this end?
The ceremony is over. The words have been said, the eulogies, my own ignorant (how well did I know them?) tribute, heartfelt but essentially empty. The song has been sung, and all are expecting to get back to their business after I give the indication to eject the coffins into the embrace of space. The two extras? Maybe considered a mistake by most, a curiosity by some, an insult by others. I don't know. I give Major Willak the nod, and he has the two prisoners escorted out to stand next to the two empty coffins.
"We have mourned and celebrated those that gave their lives for the Far Orbit and her mission. I am sad to say that I have another duty today. These two, formerly Imperial, but does that matter? These two, sworn to the Far Orbit by both previous commitments and current, conspired and actually achieved sabotage to our sublight engines, putting us all, and the ship we serve, at great risk." I pause to take a look around the crowd, shaking my head. "Not for loyalty to the Empire, mind you. But for credits. Do any of you have complaints about the credits you've earned recently? But these men... they sold you out."
I take a pause to let that sink in.
"We are an Alliance vessel, but also a privateer. As Captain, I have absolute authority to mete out justice. I am well within my rights to have these... traitors... to the Far Orbit and to the sacred commitments we have made to each other, sent into the cold heart of the galaxy. To end their existences, as they would have ended yours."
I meet Lt. Commander Panaka's eye, then Seki's, and Willak's. "But we are an Alliance vessel, among a fleet of Alliance vessels, and I choose not to exercise my privilege. These men, who have put your lives in jeopardy, will by taken and tried by the Alliance, with all the evidence that has been accumulated."
I take a glance at the two prisoners and the coffins. "But the coffins will stay right here, waiting to be filled. This is the only warning for anyone else who might be inclined toward another attempt at sabotage or mutiny. What say you?"
Willak picks up on the cue and shouts with authority, "So say we all!" Others snap to, and repeat the phrase.
This is now "a thing".
These calls are welcome, but I know they're fleeting. I feel exhausted, hollow, like I've run a race on an empty stomach.
I wait for a few moments, for the noise to die down, then signal to the guards. "Escort the prisoners back to the brig. The fleet is sending transport to pick them up."
I step down from the podium and find LCDR Panaka. "Commander Panaka, I'd like to see you in my ready room in fifteen minutes."
Twelve minutes later, Panaka arrives and enters. She stands near the chairs at your desk, takes a seat if you offer. "Yes, Captain Vos, what did you need from me, sir?"
I do offer a chair. "Commander, I'll be blunt. I'm curious why Ellic Heaval would think that you would intervene on his behalf once he was found to be one of the saboteurs. I'm not making any accusations, but I am interested."
She sits up slightly at that. Not surprised, exactly. But more cautious than she was when she walked in. "He's Nabooan, like me. He must have assumed I would protect him. As you know, I didn't lift a finger, sir."
(Rolled: 2d6+2. Rolls: 6, 3. Total: 11)
How can I get Panaka to fully commit to my command?
She is a career military, and while she chose mutiny, she feels like she's stuck in her current position, no chance for promotion or command, never again Imperial, never accepted into the Alliance. She's dug in, no desire to lose what she has. She fought hard for this rank.
I lean forward just a bit. "Commander, from my first hours aboard the Far Orbit, you've been one of the few that's raised a voice, challenged, contributed, rather than just nodding and waiting to see whether I succeed or fail. I respect that, and I see true strategic and command ability in you." I wait a second, one eyebrow raised. "However... if you choose to continue hiding whatever it is you're hiding from me about your relationship with the saboteurs, it simply won't matter how much I respect you. Do you understand?"
When you compliment her, she stiffens, as if that feels like a setup for something, she doesn't trust it. When you ask her to talk about "her relationship with the saboteurs, Panaka's mouth tightens, and you see her calculating the risks here, of saying something against saying nothing. She exhales a short breath through her nose, then answers, "Ellic Heaval and six other members of the engineer and maintenance core unofficiallyworked for me, before the mutiny. I paid them to report to me whatever they heard that they deemed noteworthy. It was helpful for me to anticipate changes within the ship, and it paid dividends during the overthrow. I told them they were on their own once things started to settle, that I was unable to fund their activities further. I... may have asked them to participate in some unofficial actions when I was Imperial. I used to to make rivals look ineffective, but I never used it to harm anyone. That's... I swore an oath, Captain Vos."
She pauses, realizes the flaw in her logic about oaths, "Of course, I broke the oath when I overthrew the captain. Honestly... I realized if I'd sided with him, my career would be ruined and I would end up on some remote station like Dantooine... or Pzob."
I listen, thoughtful. "So, in the interests of ambition you created a weakness within your crew that someone else was later able to exploit. Let me explain something..." I take in her bearing, her pride. "Your way forward, your way to advancement, from here on out? It's not bribes or backstabbing or making others look bad. It's winning. Winning battles. Winning the respect of your peers and superiors. Winning the support of your subordinates. I'm choosing to believe you about Heaval and his cousin, choosing to believe that sort of poodoo is in the past for you. Are you going to make me regret that?"
Panaka responds quickly this time, her tone less careful, "I did not create a weakness, sir. I exploited an extant weakness and used it for my own gain. The Imperial officer core is filled with rivals, Captain Vos. I was out-maneuvered at my last post, and on the Far Orbit, I was determined to avoid that mistake again. I did not impair the functioning of the ship, merely slanted how my rivals were perceived by the former captain and others on the command staff. It was effective as well, Captain. I'm sorry this may offend you. But I saw the environment for what it was, adapted, and utilized it for my own benefit. I add that I am the most qualified for my post, just not the most well-connected, therefore, my actions benefitted the entire ship."
She pauses, looking at your reaction, then adds, "In answer to your question about regretting your trust, I would say that you will not. I have nowhere else to serve, Captain. My rivals all chose to remain with the Empire. I have nothing left, but these people and this ship. That's it."
I don't question her self-justification of previous actions, because I've decided to accept the final point—she will do her best here, because she has no other path open. I nod my agreement.
"I believe you, Commander, and I look forward to taking every advantage of your skill and expertise on behalf of the Far Orbit in the future. As a matter of fact, I'll be forming a task force soon to work on integrating all elements of our ship's complement into a single coherent crew, and I'd like you to be the representative for the former Imperial forces on that task force. Are you interested?" She wants politics? Very well, she can have politics.
"Yes, Captain Vos, I am interested," is her response. She sees the opportunity, and realizes it could be a way to move up, or if she stays with Alliance, off the boat. She's adaptable.
There's a soft ping on your comm, it's Ensign Leex.
I hold up a finger to Panaka. "Yes, Ensign?"
He transfers the feed to your holoprojector in the Ready Room.
The face of Ashii Nermani (one of the most popular HoloVision newscasters) flickers into view.
“...Topping tonight’s news - Rebel terrorists have been reported operating in the Tingali Shell. The Rebel agitators have attacked civilian targets near Brentaal, Esseles and Rhinnal.
“In two cases, the Rebels attacked transport ships to rob citizens of their belongings. In another case, the bloodthirsty gang of pirates seized a cargo ship with ciritcal medical supplies bound for Ralltiir. In the most recent atrocity, the Rebels destroyed a cargo ship when it resisted capture, then flex when Sector Rangers arrived on the scene.
“One of the Rebel attacks was holorecorded by a passenger on one of the victimized ship.s As you can see, the Rebels have the transports outnumbered and are firing to intimidate the ships to surrender. Apparent on the ships is the insignia of the seditious Rebel conspiracy.
“The leader of the Rebel pirates identified himself as Vanslas Beeli, a notorious criminal who until recently had operated in the Outer Rim Territories. Beeli is already wanted for numerous counts of murder, piracy, assault, and other crimes. Beeli’s transmission to the target vessels indicated that he is a ‘Rebel privateer striking a blow for the Rebellion’.
“Imperial officials have issues a condemnation of these attacks, and vow that the Rebel pirates will be tracked down, captured, and made to pay for their aggression. Sector Ranger patrols are being stepped up and a spokesperson for the Imperial Navy has said it is taking a direct interest in locating and breaking up the Rebel pirate fleet.
“The Ringali Shell Security Force announced that is it working closely with the Imperial services and local system patrols to coordinate security for civilian traffic. The Imperial Security Bureau announced new travel regulations intended to limit the ability of the Rebels to smuggle hijackers on board commercial transport ships and is issuing new travel identification codes to increase security.”
“In other news, Imperial Center Security has announced the sudden and tragic death of Imperial Advisor Coh Veshiv in a space accident. Advisor Veshiv’s shuttle was destroyed by a stray asteroid while on an inspection tour of the sectors under his supervision. The news was delayed while the Space Rescue Corps conducted an extensive search for the shuttle.
“The Advisor was responsible for Bormea and Darpa sectors and represented Ringali Shell in the Imperial Court. The offices of Moff Graffe and Moff Caglio issues a joint statement praising Advisor Veshiv’s record and contributions to Imperial stability and growth. No replacement has been named…”
The broadcast shifts to more pleasant news - the opening of a new Holo-Opera in Coruscant, a new entertainment channel, and drones on and on. Panaka's face is slightly alarmed at this, but not entirely surprised.
what do you do?
I turn off the broadcast, then look at Panaka again. "Have you heard anything about this Vanslas Beeli? You've been in the privateer business at least a little longer than I have."
"I've heard of him," Panaka replies. "I know he has a small fleet, that he's independent scum, and like the news report says, only worked on the Outer Rim before. I am sure some of the newer crew that Vedij picked up might know more. Would you like me to inquire?"
"No, thank you. Contact Admiral Akbar's flagship and respectfully request a holo-conference in an hour. I'll meet with the newer crew."
Anything you wish to do in the meantime?
I'd like to meet with the newer crew, as I told Panaka. I'm guessing that Hosk should be able to get me a representative selection of whoever's not currently on duty, so I comm him and ask to have it arranged immediately.
"Captain Vos," Hosk says after saluting and waiting for you to return the salute. "I'd like you to meet three members of our crew. Pao-Neh-Lo, she is part of on-board security," He indicates the Tiss'shar. "Cemma, from the maintenance department." He gestures to the human. "And Napvansa Tadavv, who works in the Boom section as an engineer."
Each of them salute, not the best of salutes, but they put forth the effort, and stand at attention.
I note, and am pleased by the effort and acknowledge the smile with a captain's wave. "As you were, gentlebeings. Please make yourselves comfortable." Once they have, I continue. "Are any of you familiar with an operator named Vanslas Beeli? He's claiming to be a Rebel privateer back in the Ringali Shell. Understandably, I'm not in love with this turn of events."
Pao-Neh-Lo hisses with what seems like disgust and speaks up, "I served on the Daring Five with him. It was a pirate crew. He was a cunning little man, spread rumors of his fighting ability, but he would only attack from a position of power. When the Imps came out way, hot and heavy, he bailed and formed a new crew, the Solar Terrors. They hopped to the Outer Rim. Ended up picking up a half dozen transports that they tricked out with some serious armaments. They even picked up a Corellian corvette that Belli named the Zahtjav, after some Rodian monster. He tried to recruit me back, but I declined. I didn't like the idea of serving under a honorless coward."
I make a few notes, taking that in. "Clever enough, though, seems like. Does it seem out of character for him to draw attention to himself like this?"
"He would only do something like this for a big score." Pao-Neh-Lo says after a moment of deliberation. She is not one to speak out of turn. "It seems odd..."
"I know an infochant a few planets over who might know a thing or two." Cemma the Younger, as he's known on the ship, interjects. Napvansa shakes her head sadly and sighs, but says nothing out loud.
"Thank you, Cemma. I'll let you know if we need to exercise that option. Napvansa, do you have anything to add? Heard anything or know anyone else that knows Belli?"
"I... I do not know of this man, Captain." Napvansa says, her eyes downcast with a show of shame. "I am sorry. I do not trust infochants."
I give the Sluissi a smile meant for reassurance. "Neither do I, engineer. My question wasn't intended as a rebuke, merely as a means to include you in the conversation." I glance at the chrono. Still lots of time before the conference with the Admiral. "Pao-Neh-Lo, I'll be having a holoconference with Admiral Ackbar in the Main Conference Room on this deck in about forty minutes. Please join me there in thirty-five. Hosk, please stay, but the rest of you may return to whatever you were doing."
Pao responds with a calm, "Understood, Captain." The other two leave, Hosk remains, gets up at a point to walk atound.
At the appointed hour mark, you receive a holo-comm from Ackbar from his ship, the Home One.
"Captain Vos," he intones with his crisp voice. "I assume you saw the news transmission from Ashii Nermani? Obviously an Imperial tactic to discredit the Alliance to Restore the Republic. I recommend we ignore it until further details are known."
I indicate the Tiss'shar. "Admiral Ackbar, this is Pao-Neh-Lo of Far Orbit security. She has personal experience with this pirate."
"She does?" Ackbar says with curiosity. "What do you know of this sleemo? Why is he trying to discredit us?" It isn't lost on any of you that he used an inclusive pronoun there.
"Vanslas Beeli is a pirate who attacks from a position of strength." Pao relates. "He isn't stupid, and this action seems... well, stupid. He must have some hidden motive."
"Agreed." Ackbar says, Pao-Neh-Lo's information confirming his suspicions. "It's a trap."
What do you do?
I nod. There's some familiar cadence in the Admiral's words that helps align my thoughts. "I believe it is, Admiral. And yet... I wonder if we should, as you said, simply ignore this. If he's taking these risks, I doubt it's simply for the kind of payday the Empire is likely to offer. I've been in the position of being coerced into action before, and that experience... I wonder what they've got hanging over his head?"
"Either way, this might be an opportunity. With a roving band of Rebel Privateers in the Ringali Shell, Far Orbit will be even more 'invisible' to merchants and lesser functionaries, at least for now. Perhaps?"
Ackbar puts a hand to his mouth, considering for a moment. He tilts his head to look at you with his right eye, then nods once, "It would be an excellent place for you to operate." He looks to Hosk then Pao, "This is a very dangerous mission, Captain Vos. While you are in a fully stocked frigate, you are still undermanned and Beeli has at least six freighters that are well armed, as well as a Corellian corvette, which is the best ship in the galaxy, pound for pound." Of course, he would say that.
What do you do?
"Never tell me the odds, sir, it just makes me stubborn." I give him a grin. "Regardless, we certainly won't seek out Beeli and his merry band, but we'll deal with it if we need to. Any preferred targets on your wishlist, or shall we see what pickings we can find?"
Admiral Ackbar chuckles, "I'll have my team forward some targets your way. I have to admit, Lens was right about you. Good hunting, Captain Vos."
If there's nothing else, he ends transmission.
What next?
I dismiss Pao-Neh-Lo with my thanks, but ask Hosk to stay for a bit. "How are things going for you, Hosk? I haven't had much time to check in."
"Five by five, Lad." Hosk answers reflexively. He sits a bit heavier in his seat. After a minute, he admits, "Haven't had a deathstick in a couple weeks. Don't want to set a bad example. It's the worst. What about you? "
With a wink, I answer the wrong question. "I haven't had a deathstick in weeks, either." My face gets serious quickly, though, and I swipe at my face with the back of a hand. "The other night I had a dream that I was juggling grenades, knowing that only some of them were live and trying to figure out which ones they were without dropping any..."
Hosk frowns like he's had similar dreams, "None have dropped yet, Lad. That convoy haul will buy us all more leeway that anything else we could've done. I'm glad you pushed us through on that." He pauses for a moment, and you see him about to switch to business topics, but he doesn't. He sees your posture, reads it as a moment to chat, and only chat.
I know I should hear out what he has to say about the business of the ship, but I don't ask. "So, this will sound odd, I guess. How are you getting along, personally? Found any buddies?" That sounds so much like baba when I was ten, I cringe inwardly, but it actually matters to me. "I know I kind of put you in an awkward position, but I hope you have people you like..."
"Buddies? Hell no." Hosk answers with a dismissive wave of his hand. "The ex-Imps despise me or outrank me and avoid me. The greenies are scared to talk to me, and there's this ongoing rumor that I spaced someone for calling me short. And the... well, the third crew wants to work for me, but they're still suspicious. Testing me out, you know? Basically, I'm still "the man" in their eyes."
"How do we shake this up? I can't run a ship with three crews, and it's not fair to ask you to help, if I'm struggling with the concept. Any ideas how to cross the streams? Do we need to..." I kind of hate myself for saying this. "Standardize uniforms, for a start?"
Hosk ponders it for a few moments before responding. "Unis aren't a bad idea. Won't cure everything, but it won't hurt, either. Make everyone realize we're part of the Rebel Alliance." He licks his lips looks at you seriously, "We need to promote some of the third crew. Granted, not all of them are officer material, but I've got five who have captained ships, run security compounds, even one who acted as a city official for a decade. If we work through the old structure, the ex-Imps will stay in power. If we work through the Alliance methods and practices, we'll get the same result. We need to integrate this crew, top to bottom. And we need to do it ASAP."
I nod. "Agreed, of course. I'm also setting up a task force to work on integrating the crew, but that's not sufficient, I think. Get me a list of those five you mentioned soon, and I'll start working on which gaps need to be filled in the command structure. And I'll see about requisitioning uniforms from the fleet before we go."
Hosk nods curtly, he'll have the list to you soon. "About our old crew.... what are you doing about Jojee getting thrown into the brig? And, this wedding thing. Are you really going to marry those two?"
At the mention of Jo in the brig, I shrug. "Time's up, she's out. She jumped in to the fight to help Dart, of all things, so I don't see it as entirely a bad thing. Of course, I'll never tell her that." I hold up a finger. "But... the whole thing is a clear symptom of the same thing we've been talking about. There's a difference between hazing the new kid and hazing the outsider. Dart doesn't exactly try to fit in, but that's no excuse. I'll check in with Major Vorpatrick."
With a grin, I continue. "As to Squall and Amarath, I am certainly going to marry them. There are many reasons why that's scary, but I think they're outweighed by the good. Besides, I've never gotten to perform a wedding before. I've been reading up in my copious spare time."
"I've never hunted a Rancor beast, but that doesn't mean it;s a good idea." Hosk remarks with a wry chuckle. "Squally keeps making bad choices. Amy is a good merc, but an awful mate, you know? I know you can't make them stop, but can you maybe delay it a bit?"
"Hosk, take a step back for a minute. Squall has been doing great since ze joined us on the Profit Margin, and aside from going crazy on 1313, Amy's been steadily getting more and more solid. From the evidence, it looks like they've been good for each other, to me."
Hosk shrugs a little, "Maybe. Still a bad idea on a ship. We had articles on this. You know Amy brings drama, and if Squally takes over engineering and Amy breaks zir heart, that's gonna be trouble. But yeah, they've been alright lately, I agree with that much."
This gets a little tired after months and months of it. "Hosk, what's the real issue, here? This isn't just about military discipline, is it? Is it Squall and Amy in particular, or is there more going on?"
Hosk makes a little noise like hrm, "Lad, I'd prefer this conversation over a drink. Let's just say I've found relationships on board a ship get messy. I mean, hell, think about how rough it was with Lee, Yeah, I'm biased, and if it's getting old, you don't have to ask me and I won't volunteer it anymore." He doesn't seem defensive as much as ready to put this to bed, like he reads your attitude and realizes it's just something you won't agree on.
I give him a conciliatory smile. "I guess I'm just a romantic, old friend. And I'm looking forward to eventually having some liberty, so we can find an out-of-the-way bar and get to a seven on the scale without scandalizing the crew. Anything else while I've got you?"
"Nah. I've got things under control. If there's something else, I'll let you know." He pushes himself up out of his chair. He'll salute and leave if you're done.
I acknowledge the salute and watch him leave, thankful for his loyalty, honesty and overall good sense, even if I don't always agree with him. If only I had a few hundred more like him.
After that, it's requisitioning sufficient Alliance uniforms for the crew, if they're to be had, reviewing the roster of officers, and, when it arrives, checking over the list Hosk sends of "third crew" (how I hate that) hopefuls. The list of potential targets from the Admiral's staff will wait until the next command conference. Need to get my house in order.
The Alliance Needs My Ship: When you want to put political pressure on the fleet to provide for your ship, roll+Suave. On a 10+, your ship is provided for, no questions asked. On a 7-9, it’s all grudges and bickering. The MC can offer you giving up something from your ship, a complication in the deal, or giving you a rival.
(Rolled: 2d6+3. Rolls: 2, 6. Total: 11)
How do you plan on "rolling this out?"
This doesn't have to happen right away, and I did appoint a task force. Or start to. First, I scrounge a set of Lieutenant's pips (Navy, not Ground), then I comm LCDR Panaka, Napvansa Tadavv, and Major Willak, ask them to meet me right away.
When they arrive, I'm my usual whirl of activity. I think sometimes that me in meetings could power the ship, if we ever lose backups. "Thank you for coming. I have several orders of business. First, Major Willak, I would like for you to witness my field-commission of Engineer Napvansa Tadavv to the rank of Lieutenant in the Alliance Space Forces." I hold out the pips for Willak to take. "If you'll do the honors?"
"Yessir," Major Willak says, his military training kicking in. He takes the pips with respect and marches over to pin them on the Sluissi. she seems affected, if you read her reactions correctly. She didn't expect this. Panaka watches impassively.
Hiding a grin, I nod, then say, "Congratulations, Lieutenant Tadavv. Those look good on you." I steeple my fingers, trying not to look too much like the megalomaniacal villain in a holodrama. "I'm officially empaneling the three of you as my Task Force for Crew Integration. I'm tired of having three separate crews, sometimes working at cross-purposes. It's not good for the Far Orbit and, frankly, it gives me heartburn. Within three days, I want you to submit to me the following: a list of candidates from the so-called 'third crew' to be added to the Officer Corps; a plan for mass commissioning of both officers and enlisted from former-Imperal and 'third crew' into the official ranks of the Alliance; and a plan to distribute Alliance uniforms, which should be ready by then, to the entire crew, and to ensure that they are worn by all in compliance with Alliance regs." That's not too much to work on, is it? "Cet, you're the subject matter expert on Alliance protocol, but the three of you are to act as equals on this, regardless of rank or seniority. I will be available for consultation, but I expect solid work from all of you."
I turn to Napvansa. "Lieutenant, I fear I'm throwing you in the deep end, but I needed someone immediately, and the Command Master Chief clearly trusts you."
Lt. Tadavv snaps into a salute, which isn't half bad, "Yes, sir, Captain Vos. I'm happy to serve as an officer on the Far Orbit, as well as part of this team." She sounds excited, her tone is tempered slightly by the realization of all the work ahead.
"Alliance unis are a great start, sir." Major Willak asserts. "We'll have findings to you in an actionable list with pros and cons well in advance of the new duds."
"Captain, Panaka says after a moment. "Apologies for the remedial question, but Imperial unis will be used on operations still, correct?"
I smile at Panaka. "Waste not, want not, Commander. We will definitely keep Imperial uniforms in reserve for when we need to play our part. I've grown quite fond of mine, actually."
To the three as a whole, "I'd like regular updates from the three of you, both individually and as a group. Of course, this task force will be ongoing... we're only starting to work toward a very important goal, and I expect to lean quite heavily on the three of you in achieving it. There's plenty of unoccupied space on the ship - feel free to set up and outfit a task force office, if you like. Just don't go overboard on the requisitions from stores."
On the way out, Cet says to his fellow officers, "An office on Deck Twenty-Two has our name on it. Come on, I'll show you..."
"This is my home, Major." Panaka interjects. "I'll check out the office, but I've got my eye on a spot in Eighteen. Better view." Tadavv makes a pleasant sound at the better view.
What's next on your agenda?
As long as I'm at my desk, I'd like to ask for a rundown on what any of the former Imperials might know about Advisor Coh Veshiv. I wonder if there's any advantage to be taken from his untimely death, or anything of tactical value that might be found in his shuttle, should we come across it.
Your ex-Imp command staff all have stories about different blackmails or manipulations Coh Veshiv pulled off in court or in the Ringali Sector. He was feared and loathed by anyone in power. Seki related a story about how Vedij once received a commendation from Veshiv, specifically done by the Advisor to spite one of his rivals. There is no mourning for the man on this crew.
I soak it in, a little grateful that most of my conflicts have been with people that either wanted to use me or simply kill me. Imperial politics sound truly exhausting. "We'll keep an eye out for the wreckage, certainly. There might be something useful if we happen to run across it. Not a priority, but it's worth a few minutes of sensor time."
"Aye aye, sir." Seki replies and details the work for the sensor staff. After that, he moves a little closer while you're standing on the bridge now with him. "If we're operating in the Ringali Sector, we should find a base where we can resupply without entanglements. Securing an arrangement with a shadowport is out of my expertise, but I'm rather sure we have a few experts on board."
I give Seki a conspiratorial grin. "Commander, I suspect I have just the man for the job." I'll let Cemma know that I need some time, once I'm done on the bridge.
"Yes, Captain, what did you need?"
I acknowledge the sort of salute, then (after he sits), say, "Please, have a seat." With a smile, I continue. "Cemma, we're heading back into the Ringali Shell, and we're going to need a... discrete place to resupply and take care of repairs. Somehow, I've managed most of my rather disreputable career to date without having negotiated with a shadow port. I suspect that isn't true for you. I'd like to make you our liaison, to find us one in the Shell and establish a relationship. Interested?"
Cemma grins, leans back in his seat a bit. "You want a shadowport? That, I can do." He purses his lips, looking at the ceiling for a moment. As he thinks, the low barely audible hum of the ship fills the space. "Can't really tool around in this frigate, so I'll need a transport. Why don't you let me use your old ship, sir? It'd be nice to keep things fresh for Darkal, and I know he wouldn't mind a chance to get his new crew some live action. We'd be gone, say, two or three weeks? I can plot a course after I check up on a few things, submit that to you tomorrow?"
"Go ahead and plot the course. I'll check in with Darkal first, but that seems like a plan. You'll be acting under his command, of course. I'd guess he is going stir crazy." I wonder if he and Jojee have maintained their... whatever it is.
He hops up out of his chair, "You bet he is. Hey, do you have anything you want me to pick up while we're out? Small goods, rare goods... contraband?" He gives a sneaky grin, "Amy talks about you quite a bit, sir. She's a fan, which makes me a fan. Can't believe you two are cousins."
I raise an eyebrow at the thought that Amarath is saying good things about me. "Sometimes, I can't believe we're cousins, Cemma." I shake my head. "As far as shopping lists, let me say something first. If you bring Spice on board my ship, I won't bother with a trial. I'll just tear you apart with my own hands." After a pleasant smile, I continue. "Aside from that, I don't object to a bit of freelancing. It's a tradition, really. And I'll have a list for you. Primarily klava-related." Need to remember to ask my kitten if she has any requests to add.
Cemma's eyes widen a bit when you threaten about spice, he listens closely to the rest, "Spice no, klava yes. Got it, Captain. No problem. I'll let Darkal know, unless you want to tell him?"
"I appreciate the initiative, but I'd rather speak to him myself, being Captain and all. Go ahead and make your plan, get it to me tomorrow, and you can be on your way once I get a chance for a quick review. And listen... our biggest advantage is that the merchants and Imperials don't know we're not an Imperial vessel yet. I'm trusting you with a lot, here. Trusting that you're both sneaky and loyal."
Cemma heads for the door, giving you a nod, "Don't worry, Captain. I vastly prefer this," he looks around, as if he's indicating the entire frigate, "To working cons at some backwater city on the Outer Rim or a spacestation." He leaves.
What do you do?
I'll give Darkal a chance to object to the idea, but unless he does, it needn't be a long conversation.
I would like to make a quick visit to Ahji Dar to discuss whether she wants to add anything to my shopping list for Cemma. Maybe not that quick a visit. I do leave comms on, though, and though I don't specifically tell people where to find me, comms should be enough.
After you explain the mission to Darkal, he asks, "Ladro, I'd be happy to take this Cemma out to find a port for us. I don't know Rengali well, but I'll sound out his ideas, too. Thing is, I don't have a pilot yet. I could fly her, but I'd rather we have someone that can really take care of the Margin..." He looks to you, knowing you know what he's asking.
What do you do?
I give Darkal a skeptical look. "Honest truth, brother. Is this about having Jojee within your nefarious clutches, or truly about what you need? She knows the Margin, yes, but you know she was born for an X-Wing. Are you putting your mutual libidos ahead of her career?"
Avoiding the direct question, Darkal peers at you, "Are you saying there's a better pilot on this frigate for such an important mission?"
I blow out a breath. "Listen, big brother... don't play me. I've got too many years of that experience, and we don't want to go there. You've had time to recruit, you have an entire crew except for a pilot that you feel comfortable with? If you want to ask Jojee to give up her place in the Air Wing and commit to going back to piloting the Profit Margin, then I'll take her answer, but I will not assign her to you unless she asks. And those are the terms. Your crew, or mine."
Darkal does that thing with his mouth when he's annoyed, on the verge of upset, and stymied. "You know I already asked her, little brother. Kark it, I was hoping you'd pull some strings for me. I can fall back to either one of the recruits who tests really well, but he's well, green. And there's a Falleen named Xad who's not half bad." He looks away, frustrated.
I ponder that for a moment. Jojee said no. Wonder if that has more to do with the X-Wing or something else. "Well... I may be responsible for an entire small town worth of crew, but you have to know that I'm still scared of Jo, and if she's turned you down I'm not going to push it." I give him a 'half-joking' smirk. "Either of the others, go for it. I'm sure they'll jump for the chance. I'll sign the transfer in a heartbeat."
"Listen, Darkal... I made the Margin work with a recovering Spice addict, a Kiffar merc even more screwed up and impulsive than I am, a Keshiri pilot that was either going to kriff me or kill me half the time we were in close quarters, and a Bothan that disapproved of everything that was going on. Do you think you can deal with a hand-picked crew that signed up to join you instead of just inheriting the job? You're the charismatic one."
"She was about to kriff you? C'mon, Ladro, that's just your ego talking." Darkal jokes. "Not every female in the galaxy wants you." He shifts in his seat, his shoulders slump slightly, "Alright, yeah. I'll pull the Falleen, he was an aristocrat... but I think all Falleens are lords of something or other. It's a good crew, I just, well, hoped I could get the best pilot for our girl." He laughs a little wry laugh at that, sits back, dismissing it. "You need anything else, Captain?"
I laugh, too. "Listen, I want the best for our girl, too... so MAKE the best pilot for her. She's still not payed off, by the way... so keep her safe."
He rolls up out of his chair, taps your desk, "Aye aye, Captain Vos." There's a moment, like he's going to go, but he stops. Turns his shoulders back to you, "She makes you happy, doesn't she?" His tone has shifted. He's not talking about Jojee or the Profit Margin. You know who he's asking about.
I take a second to evaluate that. "Yes. She does." I meet his eyes, not flinching. "She is my heart, and despite my best efforts, I know she will likely go her own way, chasing after her own prize, someday." I look down at my hands, then back up to him. "There is no offspring from us... no formality that we can negotiate..." I look away. "Nothing that mama can possibly recognize." I blow a breath out between my lips. "I asked. She said no."