Under normal circumstances they wouldn't be that freaked out, but when Darra came back with her testimony the Jedi were aware of the fact that the Sith Conspiracy was a thing and that there were people out there trying to take out the Jedi. And wouldn't you know it, there's this charismatic woman who has the adoration of the galaxy that conveniently has no real enemies, was known to have associated with the Separatists at the time of their founding, and was just implicated in working with the criminal underworld to a significant degree and then was accused of trying to take control of a powerbase that wouldn't be affected by the war due to its nautre...
It definitely raised alarm bells. Now the reason they don't like her is just the fact that the Council doesn't like Ciaran on a personal level.
So to the Jedi Council, Ciaran is the most likely suspect to be the Sith Lord they're looking for... that's actually hilarious. It makes sense from a certain point of view, the connections, the unnatural charisma, the muffled connection to the Force as if she was hiding something and her attempts to subvert the Order via corrupting members through such horrible things as 'dangerous truths' (i.e force facts not approved by the Jedi Order).
Ironically they dismissed Palpatine from the list as a suspect because he was 'already the most powerful person in the galaxy'. They thought that the Dark Side hanging around him meant he was a influenced by the Sith.
Hey @Dr. Snark if you want to (sorta) rebalance the omake glut we currently have you can just add the +20 to any rolls we may need to do in the Wesker mini arc.
[X] Bring in support. You could use the opportunity to quietly spread the word about Order 66 and Palpatine to people you know will keep quiet about it, giving you useful allies in a worrying time. (Choose one or both)
-[X] Kal Skirata: Effectively one of the leaders of the Republic's commando divisions, you did promise him that you would tell him about the chips first thing. Contacting him would also likely get you some commandos or possibly even a Null ARC on your team.
[X] Bring in support. You could use the opportunity to quietly spread the word about Order 66 and Palpatine to people you know will keep quiet about it, giving you useful allies in a worrying time. (Choose one or both)
-[x] Ferus Olin: He told you he would help you if you needed it after saving Darra and even though its been a few years since you last spoke with him now seems like the perfect time to cash in that favor. That, and he's a powerful Jedi on his own, making him an invaluable asset on the battlefield.
-[x] Kal Skirata: Effectively one of the leaders of the Republic's commando divisions, you did promise him that you would tell him about the chips first thing. Contacting him would also likely get you some commandos or possibly even a Null ARC on your team.
A/N: Be advised: this is longer than the first one. Yeah, it got away from me. Less info-dumpy, though.
Briefing the Boss, Pt. 2: Northern Mid Rim
"...which makes three dozen districts of the Tarisan Upper and Middle City that have been cleared for resettlement. And with the latest reports from our Undercity reclamation teams, we've finally dispensed with those ridiculous rumors that somehow rakghouls were plaguing the lower levels. Our Paigun actuaries are predicting an 87% increase in refugee traffic to the Lower and Undercity over the next quarter."
"Excellent. Though... did the Paigun tell you what the number would have been if we hadn't hired that Lellish team to run the marketing?"
Borvo looked crestfallen. On a face like his, it vaguely resembled hunger. "They told me the increase would have capped at plus-20."
Ciaran smirked. "And that means...?"
"You were right, Lady Ciaran." Borvo sighed.
"Marvelous. By my reckoning, our current tally is twenty-eight to four?"
"Yes, Lady Ciaran."
"Do cheer up, you could still make a comeback. Best of 57?"
"You've been taking lessons from Xruk again, haven't you?"
"Oh, Borvo, you say the nicest things. Do comm me if you find anything else to report?"
"I shall."
Ciaran eased back into her Kesslerite lounging chair as the hologram vanished. Who knew a missile manufacturer could build such comfortable chairs?
"Lady Ciaran?"
"Yes? Come in, PR-1. Any news from Yablari?"
"Thank you, Mistress, and not yet. Despite their interest in our cultivation of Maridun, they're still inclined to wait for the other member-systems of the Commonality before joining the CNS."
"So we'll just have to wait till Mr. Greenshade convenes the Common Assembly, then."
"Indeed. Though I doubt we'll have to wait long -- the Vorzydiaks are positively green at the growth potential of joining Neutral Space, and the Columexi aren't far behind. Greenshade would face a recall if he lets things slide too much longer."
"So you've told me. Though... didn't you tell me earlier that the Vorzydiaks are born with green skin?"
"...Hoped you wouldn't notice. A short of the circuits."
"Sure." Ciaran smirked. "But I've distracted you long enough -- was there a reason you came in?"
"Oh. Yes, Lady Ciaran. That is... last time you told me to look in things, and then you were off for that Snake Eater mission, and I didn't have anything else to be doing, and--"
"Stop."
"...Yes?"
"Topic sentence?"
"Oh, right. The survey of the Mid Rim you assigned me."
"Ah. Having trouble with it?"
"No, Lady Ciaran. I'm... I've finished it."
"Wait, what? Finished, already? It's been less than a week!"
"Yes, I know, Mistress. The thing is... well, the thing is the Mid Rim is just plain boring. All those planets, and systems, and people, and all of it unfailingly dull. It was as though The Maker coded one agriworld into existence, decided that was good enough, and replicated the same one in a thousand other systems whenever He needed to fill up space."
"...That bad?"
"Worse. Even the trade worlds were boring! There must be at least a billion starships that pass through the Mid Rim each week by the Celanon Spur, and I only found three ports of call that were even slightly worthy of note!"
"Sithspit, even my data-droid would fall asleep on a diet like that. Do you know why there was such a difference?"
Despite his lack of facial expression, PR-1 somehow managed to look abashed. "Yes, Lady Ciaran. I consulted with Borvo and with your esteemed grandfather, but neither of them were able to assist. I managed yesterday to secure an appointment with Mitth'raw'nuruodo and--"
"Just... call him Thrawn like the rest of us. Please?"
Now PR-1 looked quite put out. "That's not his name!"
"Doesn't stop him from responding to it."
"He may respect the enunciatory difficulty his birth name poses to non-Chiss speakers, but that's no excuse for not trying!"
Ciaran looked bemused. "I'm led to believe nicknames are customary among close friends."
"Not always, and not without the other party's assent!"
"But he gave us permission...?"
"Compliance is not assent. Just because OOM-9 responds to 'Roger' doesn't mean he likes it."
"Yes, well, calling him 'whom-nine' would be silly, and 'oh-oh-em-nine' takes too long. Besides, Roger is a B1 -- he's programmed for tactics, not conversation."
"Yet it still took the better part of a decade to badger him into responding to it."
"Again: he's a B1, not a protocol droid. It took that long for him to understand the concept of a nickname."
"Droids don't get nicknames. Droids have designations, hard-coded into our cognitive modules. To deny us that, is to deny us our identity."
"...Oh. Sithspit. You still haven't forgiven me for suggesting we call you 'Priam', have you?"
"My designation is PR-1." The droid looked mutinous.
"Yes. You're right. And I... apologize, for not respecting that. Now then. If I promise to never again try to rename you..." PR-1 curtly nodded at Ciaran's gaze, "will you tell me how... Mitth'raw'nuruodo" Ciaran choked on the name "explained the Mid Rim situation?"
"Indeed, Lady Ciaran." A mollified PR-1 responded. "Thank you, Lady Ciaran. I consulted with Mitth'raw'nuruodo yesterday, and found his answer quite illuminating. To be specific: it hinges on our definition of 'interesting'. As you know, the Core and Colonies worlds were the first systems settled, so they tend to have the longest histories, or tend to have the largest populations, or tend to have good reason why they are under-populated, or something else entirely. In contrast, the Outer Rim was settled last, so it tends to be much more thinly populated, but with much more turbulent and eventful histories. For business purposes, the Core and Colonies are the galaxy's consumer class, so the biggest businesses compete over market share, while in the Outer Rim they compete over control of systems and sectors due to the lack of regulation. This also affects politics -- the Core and Colonies face direct oversight from the Galactic Republic, while there are still bustling slave markets all around the Outer Rim. Thus, in the center of things, as on the periphery, life is busy and important and most of all interesting."
"...But that's not the case in between. Is that right?"
"Precisely, Lady Ciaran. The Mid Rim is far enough from the galactic center to be underpopulated, but close enough to deal with the Senate's oversight and busybody-ness. Perhaps at the beginning, these systems were on the frontier, but the frontier moved on, and they remained. In business terms, they're not independent enough to be entrepreneurs, but not connected enough to be corporate executives -- they're the struggling small businesses of the galaxy. By way of example: do you remember the Yinchorri Uprising about a decade back?"
"Of course!"
"Do you remember what that Uprising consisted of?"
"...They killed a few Jedi, didn't they?"
"That came later. The Uprising itself consisted of the Yinchorri warrior-caste invading three of its neighboring systems, and destroying a nearby space station. The Jedi responded by sending a master and padawan to negotiate a cease-fire; the pair were killed. The Jedi launched a larger task force of masters and knights, backed by Judicial Force troops, which put an end to the Uprising within a few weeks. This was enough to dominate Coruscant headlines for the better part of the year. Now compare to the Outer Rim. What was the final tally of deaths and damages due to Operation Absolute Eclipse, again?"
Ciaran's eyes widened.
"True, it happened in the middle of a war, but even if it were peacetime, it'd have been off the headlines within a month. The rivalry between the Hutts and the Neimoidians has been simmering for the better part of a century, with dozens of systems and space stations trading hands over that time, yet the Jedi only sent ambassadors once the Neimoidians threatened Naboo -- and Naboo belongs in the Mid Rim."
"Huh."
"So there's your answer: the Mid Rim is boring because it's well governed, and the Outer Rim is interesting because it isn't. All that to say: I made sure to clear your schedule for three hours, so feel free to take notes and ask questions. First, as before, let me show you the map."
"As you can see, Neutral Space is colored purple, with nearby sectors organized into eight large regions. Given the glaring lack of interesting things in the Mid Rim, I decided to expand my gaze to the nearby sectors of the Expansion Region. I also decided to include some of the known systems in the Unknown Regions, including -- with Mitth'raw'nuruodo's permisssion -- the key systems of the Chiss Ascendancy."
"Excellent work."
"First, though, the Mid Rim sectors immediately west of Neutral Space. As there are no major hyperlanes in this region, I've taken to calling it "Transvulta West," after the sole neutral sector in the Mid Rim."
Mezeg sector
Strabin sector
- Lavisar: childhood home of Cin Drallig (Jedi battlemaster), resource-rich mining/industrial planet, headquarters of Skyrung Manufacturing (starships)
Hewett sector
Hollan sector
- Tartaglia: isolated planet near Fusion Clouds nebula, site of legendary 'Nova Vaults' (underground treasure vaults from Old Republic era)
Homon sector
Shiwal sector
Nicandra sector
Kordu sector
Alderath sector
M'shinni sector
- Genassa: homeworld of M'shinni race (mammals with moss symbiotes), major agriworld known for botanical bioengineering
- Ylix: ancient rivalry with neighbor Goelitz [NB: Goelitz-Ylix War ends in 20 BBY], childhood home of Gallandro (best gunslinger)
Ottega sector
- Ithor: homeworld of Ithorian race (best agriculturalists); rich in bafforr trees (telepathic); home of Tendau Bendon (anti-Palpatine Senator, pacifist), Roron Corobb (Jedi Master), Worror Dowmat (Jedi Lord, survived Ruusan, died c. 990 BBY) and Chodo Habat (legendary agriculturalist, restored Telos IV c. 3950 BBY); headquarters of Ithorian SkyYards (produce 'herdship'-cities) and Brathflen Corporation (Manolium-class herdships)
Urce Space sector
Kesh sector
- Ebra: homeworld of Ebranite race, rich in lu-ramin (medicinal oil), trade controlled by Carosi XII
"... Yes, rather underwhelming. While yet another resource-rich world with yet another starship company might be nice, I imagine you'll find Lavisar more interesting as the homeworld of the current Jedi Temple battlemaster, who is by all accounts one of the greatest combat swordsmen to ever live. The other key system in this region is Ithor--"
"They just joined Neutral Space, didn't they?"
"Yes, with several of the neighors I list. Ithor is the homeworld of the Ithorians, a pacifist race who quite eagerly joined Neutral Space due to your reputation as a humanitarian and peacemaker. Better still, the Ithorians are quie simply the greatest agriculturalists in the galaxy. Any other species, system or syndicate that work in the field -- such as the M'Shinni of nearby Genassa -- are compared and invariably found wanting to the Ithorians. If we ever need to restore a planet's ecosystem, they should be the first ones we comm."
"...We were planning to restore the Tarisian kelp farms. PR-1, make sure to remind me to comm them when I get a spare moment."
"Of course, Lady Ciaran. Next, if you'll turn your attention further west, to the region I'm calling 'Bright Jewel' after the star of Ord Mantell, which lies at the heart of this area."
Droma sector
Irishi sector
- Obredaan: homeworld of Jin'ha race (weaponsmiths), rich in cortosis (anti-lightsaber metal), trade world, formerly controlled by Trade Federation
- Ord Tessebok: thriving and heavily populated trade world, site of major Refugee Relief Movement settlements
Tyan sector
Qiilura sector
- Qiilura: homeworld of Gurlanin race (best spies, Force-sensitive changelings), rich in barq (delicacy), agriworld, formerly controlled by Trade Federation
Bright Jewel sector
- Aleen: home of 'Orphne', homeworld of Aleena (surface) and Kindalo (underworld) races, site of 'Great Seal' (Jedi outpost) and ancient ruins
- Ord Mantell: homeworld of Savrip race (low-tech brutes) and flutterplume species (peacock-vultures); childhood home of Mawkran (Savrip freedom fighter, killed 37 BBY); home of Taxer Sundown ('Jedi' crime lord, died 37 BBY), Mama (Columi smuggler) and Weeffil Liff (merchant); headquarters of Bright Jewel Command (Republic 8th Sector Army); major banking/trade hub ('Heart of Bright Jewel') formerly controlled by Black Sun
- Mount Avilatan: volcanic island and shadowport, site of Drelliad Tradeport, Fort Garnik (abandoned Republic outpost), and Mantellan Separatist stronghold (caldera fortress)
- Ord Mantell City: walled island-city [NB: looks like Mont St. Michel], site of Black Sun compound (now Abyss Watcher facility)
- Scraplands: massive hemispheric junkyard, home of salvagers (Jawas et al.), site of Junkheap (processing station) and Rusty Reach (reclamation plant)
- Ten Miles Plateau: near Scraplands, site of abandoned stellar-energy station (former home of Taxer Sundown, land baron/crime lord, died 37 BBY)
- Worlport: continent-sized capital city, tourism & commercial center, site of Morro Spaceport (primary), Government House (capitol), Hotel Grand, Red House (prison), Path of Coins (casino district, including Mugwaar's Palace and Lady Fate), and Jedi ExplorCorps outpost
- Jubilee Wheel: space station over Ord Mantell, 'antique' ring-shaped shadowport
- Mantellian Nebula: resource-rich comet cloud, sole source of midlithe crystals, site of H-5 70 Mining Facility, headquarters of Dynath Miners
- Nova Orion Station: private space station over Ord Mantell, headquarters of Nova Orion Industries (starship R&D)
- Tansarii Point Station: space station over Ord Mantell, controlled by Car'das Smugglers, major shadowport
Luuq sector
Vadigult sector
Abaar sector
Manoe sector
Dohu sector
Tiala sector
Thory sector
Corthenia sector
Pacor sector
Barsa sector
"... Obredaan and Qiilura both have tied to the Trade Federation, so recruiting them might prove difficult. On the other hand, they are deep in Republic space, and the Trade Federation's reputation in the Mid Rim is pretty abysmal after the invasion of Naboo. Obredaan has one major claim to fame: it is a major supplier of cortosis weapons, which cause lightsabers to 'short out' on contact. You ever need to kill a Jedi -- or, say, a Sith Lord -- a cortosis weapon is your best bet. As for Qiilura... well, just look at its native population. Gurlanins are Force-sensitive shapeshifters, who have an improved version of 'Buried Presence' trick that makes them invisible to normal sight as well as the Force. For this reason, they are terrifyingly competent as spies and assassins. Early last year, the Senate brokered a deal to evict all human colonists from the planet in exchange for Gurlanin support in the war. The local humans refused the deal and the Senate let them get away with it. That's when the Gurlanins sent two agents to Coruscant. The Senate promptly decided to evict the human colonists at blaster-point, and the deal was upheld. You do not want to get on the Gurlanins' bad side. On the other hand, it was apparently Omega Squad commandos trained by Kal Skirata that initially liberated the planet, so we do have an 'in' if we want their cooperation...."
"Oh. PR-1?"
"Yes, Lady Ciaran."
"Make a note of it."
"Already done."
"No, I mean... make a dozen notes and send them to each of the other principals, then make a dozen more just to make sure they take it seriously. If it took two Gurlanin agents to bring the Senate to its knees, what could a full squad of them do?"
"Indeed, Lady Ciaran."
Ciaran made a noise that faintly resembled a giggle. Though she would deny it if asked. She took a slow, deep breath. "Nope. Too much, too giddy, too many daydreams." She shook her head. "Right. What's next?"
"That would be the third region, Mistress, which I've named after the primary hyperlane that runs from this region to Coruscant."
Glythe sector
- Iridonia: homeworld of Zabrak race, childhood home of Maris Brood and Agen Kolar (Jedi), site of Sith Academy, urbanized lava planet with valley-farms
- Vortex: homeworld of Vor race, site of 'Cathedral of Winds' galactic wonder, major tourist destination
Vorc sector
Jaloor sector
- Glee Anselm: homeworld of Nautolan race, childhood home of Kit Fisto (Jedi), waterworld with thriving aquaculture
Outer Jalor sector
- Kril'Dor: gas giant rich in tibanna (rare fuel), ringed by gas mining stations
Belshar sector
- Ord Varee: thriving and heavily populated trade world, site of major Refugee Relief Movement settlements
Chaama sector
Londori sector
Ariarch sector
Churnis sector
- Ansion: homeworld of Ansionian race, minor agriworld, home of Mousul (pro-CIS Senator) and Tam Uliss (pro-CIS industrialist, killed by Shu Mai in 22 BBY), signing member of 'Malarian Alliance' and 'Keitumite Mutual Military Treaty' [NB: if Ansion secedes, so do a dozen other sectors...]
Rago sector
"...I highlight Ord Varee if only because you ought to be familiar with each of the major worlds taking in significant numbers of refugees, as your humanitarian work will go a long way toward inducing these systems to join the CNS. As for Iridonia, well, the Zabrak homeworld has a history with the Force, but I rather thought you'd find the geology more interesting."
"How so?"
"How many agriworlds can you name, that are dominated by continent-sized lava flows and city-sized pools of acid?"
"...You say it's an agriworld?"
"Produces most of the food for the sector, I'm told."
"...How?!"
"They carved valleys out of the volcanic soil, place energy field generators to protect against the acid, and cultivate every square inch. I understand the Ithorians helped set it up."
"Of course they did." Ciaran snarked. "Was that all?"
"No, actually, you may find the last planet I've highlighted to be the most intriguing. Shortly before the outbreak of war, your ex-employee Shu Mai of the Commerce Guild noticed a peculiarity -- that a backwater world called Ansion was at the center of a number of interlocking trade treaties and defensive pacts around the region. Specifically, if Ansion joined the Separatists, those treaty obligations would force a dozen other worlds to follow suit, and those systems' treaty obligations would bring a dozen sectors into the CIS, reaching deep into the Core and Colonies. When the Republic noticed her game, they sent a team of Jedi ambassadors -- incidentally, including Obi-Wan and Anakin -- to deal with it. Shu Mai failed, of course, but there's no reason to think we couldn't succeed. Ansion has no desire to participate in the war, and the Republic has not openly opposed our diplomatic overtures for Republic systems to join the CNS. Swing Ansion, and the rest of the galaxy may follow."
"Huh. Do make a note of it."
"Yes, Lady Ciaran. Now, that covers the northern Mid Rim, but I decided to include the Freestanding Subsectors and the northern Unknown Regions in my survey. I'm calling this area the galaxy's 'Wild West'."
Expansion Regions
Freestanding Subsectors
- 244Core: resource-rich foundry world (sole source of TOL-type ore), headquarters of Tor-Ro-Bo Industries and Eeook Mining & Reclamation (mining corps), center of 'Omenada' Force sect, site of The Dump (strip mine-turned-junkyard), Eeookko Crater mines, and Relaali Spaceport
Mid Rim
Freestanding Subsectors
- Ankus: homeworld of Cragmoloid race (bipedal elephants), home of Boulad (information broker on Coruscant), [NB: opposed Ruusan Reformation]
- Jedha: homeworld of Jedi Order, center of 'Guardians of the Whills' Force sect, site of Temple of the Kyber, rich in kyber lightsaber crystals
Wild Space
Freestanding Subsectors
- Acherin: isolated trade world, controlled by IGBC, known for high-security vaults and currency exchanges, site of Sood Spaceport
Utegetu Nebula sector
- Chiss Redoubt: member of Chiss Ascendancy, terminus of Way of Schesa hyperlane, site of multiple Chiss 'Firepoint' fortresses
Unknown Regions
7G Sector
- Ilum: ice planet rich in kathracite, mephite, and pontite ('Adegan') lightsaber crystals, site of 'Crystal Caves' and the 'Jedi Temple' (nexus)
Chiss Ascendancy
- Cioral: heavily urbanized trade world on 'Path of the Houses' hyperlane, headquarters of House Csapla (colonial affairs & agriculture)
- Copero: major trade world on 'Path of the Houses' hyperlane, headquarters of House Mitth (military affairs), site of Copera Shipyard
- Csaus: major trade world on 'Path of the Houses' hyperlane, headquarters of House Inrokini (industry, science & communications)
- Csilla: capital of Chiss Ascendancy, heavily populated hub on 'Path of the Houses' & 'Vagaari Corridor' hyperlanes, site of Expeditionary Library
- Mobus: gas giant in Klasse Ephemora A system, rich in Corusca gems [NB: orbited by living planet Zonama Sekot, colony world of Yuuzhan Vong...]
- Naporar: trade world on 'Path of the Houses', headquarters of House Nuruodo (military affairs) and of Chiss Expansionary Defense Force
- Rhigar: terminus of 'Path of the Houses' in the Rata Nebula, controlled by House Nuruodo [NB: site of Syndic Mitth'raw'nuruodo Military Academy]
- Sarvchi: trade world on 'Path of the Houses' hyperlane, headquarters of House Chaf (diplomacy)
- Sposia: major trade world on 'Path of the Houses' hyperlane, headquarters of House Sabosen (medicine & education)
Killik Space
- Ruu: member of The Colony, moon of Qoribu, agriworld for The Colony, headquarters of 'Saras Nest' (weavers/shapers)
- Kr: member of The Colony, moon of Qoribu, rich in ethmane (blocks sensors), secret headquarters of the 'Dark Next' (spies/assassins)
- Yoggoy: adopted homeworld of Killik race (hive-minded insects), capital of 'The Colony', at war with Chiss Ascendancy
Kharmort's Miasma
- Vagar Praxut: homeworld of Vagaari race (slavers), capital of Vagaari Empire, at war with Chiss Ascendancy
"...Jedha is a bit further south than the rest, but if anything desires special mention, it'd be the original homeworld of the entire Jedi Order. Definitely a priority destination for our Discovery Corps, if only for those kyber crystals. We could also send a team to Ilum, but I'm unsure if the Temple there has been completely snowed over, or if the Jedi have resumed their annual 'Gathering' trips with Padawan Learners. Either system would be have a wealth of artifacts and history to discover, though. As for Acherin, it's a IGBC client world, and will almost certain follow Muunilist into the CNS despite their distance."
"Good to know."
"Finally, by consulting with Mitth'raw'nuruodo I've compiled a list of the major worlds and points of interest in the Chiss Ascandancy. You might be interested to learn that the Chiss has a local source of luxury Corusca gems on Mobus, when the rest of the galaxy must rely on only a single other source: in the atmosphere of Yavin Prime."
"Interesting. I wonder what makes Mobus so special?"
"Indeed, Lady Ciaran. Now, to proceed with the fifth region, cutting around the entire northern Expansion in a straight line."
Expansion Region
Mondress sector
Vardoss sector
Hijoan Space sector
Neshei sector
Sarla sector
Carvandir sector
Deadalis sector
- Dorin: homeworld of Kel Dor race, childhood home of Plo Koon (Jedi), center of 'Baran Do Sages' Force sect (meditation), site of Jedi Enclave
Ryborean sector
Drannik sector
Trestis sector
Immalia sector
Fellwe sector
- Yinchorr: homeworld of Yinchorri race (Force-resistant thugs), under Republic interdiction due to Yinchorri Uprising a decade ago
Ehosiq sector
- Kiros: lush planet, site of Twi'lek artisan colony recently enslaved by Zygerrians [NB: freed by Anakin and Obi-Wan]
- Shili: homeworld of Togruta race (montrals), childhood home of Shaak Ti and Ahsoka Tano (Jedi), major trade hub
- Sljee: homeworld of Sljee race (blind olfaxes -- rely on sense of smell), childhood home of Jeseej (Force-sensitive information broker on Coruscant)
Corpheli sector
- Corphelion: asteroid space station (resorts), site of Corphelion Comets (galactic wonder & tourist destination)
Lostar sector
- Nessem: major trade hub on Hydian Way, headquarters of Nessem Shipyards (starship production & design), controlled by Trade Federation
- Teya IV: site of Teyan Praxeum (Jedi) and 'Cave of Truth', origin of Teyan Apologia (6-volume work, origin of Jedi practice of only training children)
Greater Plooriod sector
- Corsin: lush urbanized planet, major trade hub between Hydian Way and Vaathkree Trade Corridor
Dalqan sector
Ploo sector
- Merr: headquarters of Merr-Sonn Mil/Sci (megacorporate conglomerate, sponsor of Corporate Sector Authority), Merr-Sonn Munitions (top 3 military supplier, produces all the weapons), MerrWeapons, and Merr-Sonn Industrial Equipment (mining/construction), neutral!
"...I've already mentioned the Yinchorri Uprising, and I believe you've already discussed the insular Baran Do Sages. Almost as interesting as either of them is Teya IV, which hosted the Jedi training academy that pioneered the current practice of only training children to become Jedi, and rejecting any who were too old, too accustomed to strong emotion."
"And a hearty 'fuck you' right back atcha. Having rewritten the Code to delegitimize any hint of humanity, now they rewrite the rules of the Order itself to minimize the chance that any humanity might accidentally seep in. What self-righteous pricks."
"Indeed, Lady Ciaran. You've made your--"
"Eh, right now I'm feeling more like Darth Traya."
"Very well: Darth Traya. You've made your sentiments in this matter known many times."
"Heh. You do keep me on my toes, don't you?"
"I do try, Darth Tra--"
"And I'm back to being Ciaran again."
"As you say. Shall I move on to the next region?"
"Certainly."
"Having completed the 'northern' part of the Mid Rim and Expansion Region, we turn to the eastern part. We start with the Mid Rim sectors due east of Neutral Space, specifically east of Transvulta."
Mid Rim
Thusa sector
- Dahgee: rich in Dahgee lightsaber crystals (zigzagging blade), center of 'Dahgee Jedi' Force sect
Vensori sector
- Katarr: former Miraluka colony world, rendered uninhabitable by Darth Nihilus in 3952 BBY
Trans-Gascon sector
Msst sector
- Cadannia: jungle planet, only known source of senflax (neurotoxin that disrupts ability to access/manipulate the Force)
- Garos IV: only known source of hibridium (less effective cloaking), site of University of Garos & major Refugee Relief Movement settlements
Esuain sector
- Anteevy: ice planet, rich in phrikite (used for lightsaber-proof alloy)
- Kromus: heavily populated planet, site of CIS research facility & shipyard [NB: currently developing Shadowblade aka 'Starkiller' superweapon]
Perkell sector
- Daminia: desert planet, only known source of damindium/daminid lightsaber crystals (broader blade)
- Gromas XVI: moon of Gromas, primary source of phrik in galaxy (lightsaber-proof alloy)
- Mooga: homeworld of Moogan race, smugglers haven, controlled by Commerce Guild
Tennuutta sector
Romintine sector
- Romin: homeworld of Romin race, childhood home of Elsae and Eldewn Sarvool (Force-sensitive twins), site of Cloudflower Wall (now defunct)
Halori sector
- Khorm: homeworld of Khormai race, rich in agrocite (very rare, can boost turbolaser blasts), slave mines run by warlords, under CIS occupation
- Velmor: homeworld of Velmoc race, rich in velmstone (natural permacrete), resource-rich but known for art & literature exports
Truum:
- Contruum: childhood home of Airen Cracken [NB: Rebel general], rich in borium (ore), major trade world on Vaathkree Trade Corridor
"...I've highlighted Garos IV due to its involvement in refugee resettlement. You might find its neighbor Cardannia more interesting however -- from what reports I've seen, senflax is a neurotoxin specifically designed to incapacitate Force user. If we're looking for a solution to our Sidious problem, that might be one possibility."
"Quite right -- please make a note of it."
"I shall. I also confess myself intrigued by Dahgee -- apparently, lightsaber crystals taken from that planet generate in a dark, zigzagging blade, and a small Jedi-based Force sect has grown up around those caves."
"Interesting."
"Speaking of odd or interesting minerals, I've mentioned phrik several times before, but Gromas XVI is the primary source of the metal for the entire galaxy, and it's right on our borders in the east. Likewise, I imagine we'd be interested in Khorm due to the brutally repressive slave regime that's mining the planet for the Separatist war machine, but we would have good business reasons to free the planet as well. Khorm is rich in an exceptionally rare mineral called agrocite, which apparently can be added to turbolaser energy cells to amplify their explosive and penetrating power. As far as I know, it's only been tried on larger guns, but I can't help but wonder if agrocite could be used for smaller hand-held blasters as well."
"Ooh, I like the sound of that."
"I thought you might. Next, we turn to the region between the Perlemian Trade Route and Pabol Sleheyron hyperlanes, most notably including Kashyyyk.
Lantillian sector
- Lantilles: heavily urbanized trade hub on Perlemian Trade Route, headquarters of Lantillian ShipWrights (reliable starships, e.g. GX1 Short Hauler)
- Uyter: major agriworld on Randon Run, current Senator is Lexi Dio (anti-Palpatine member of Loyalist Committee, strong advocate for refugee relief)
Roche sector
- Roche: asteroid field, homeworld of Verpine race (starship engineers), headquarters of Roche Industries (droids) and 'Slayn & Korpil' (starships)
- Va'art II: jungle moon, homeworld of Taozin species (Force-invisible bugs with lightsaber-resistant armor), can be converted into taozin nodules/amulets
Sarka sector
- Sarka: jungle planet, homeworld of Sarkan race, only known source in 'Nova rubies' (high-demand luxury gemstone), heavily populated cave cities
Talcene sector
- Caramm: massive industrial center, controlled by Haor Chall Engineering to produce HMP Predator-class gunships, under CIS occupation
- Metalorn: massive industrial center, controlled by Techno Union [NB: to produce C-B3 cortosis battle droids], 'Foundry of the Confederacy' world
Eucer sector
- Euceron: homeworld of Euceron race, site of Great Dordon Caves (hosted Galactic Games of 26 BBY) formerly controlled by Commerce Guild
Maldrood sector
- Abhean: headquarters of Republic Fleet Systems (ancient shipwright, affiliated with Jedi, produced Aurex-class A-Wing tactical strikefighter) [NB: nationalized c. 22 BBY], site of Abhean Shipyards (massive orbital drydock, built Chu'unthor praxeum-ship), CIS foundry world
- Besh Gorgon: site of heavily-armed 'The Wheel' space station (casino & smuggling den), thriving black market in Tirefin spice (drug)
- Centares: heavily urbanized trade hub and resort world on Perlemian Trade Route, site of 'Rubyflame Lake', CIS foundry world
- Ganzik: orbital shipyards run by Mesen Corporation (light spacecraft, e.g. SCT Scout Craft)
- New Holstice: hospital world, homeworld of 'memory moth' species, site of 'Jedi Monument to the Fallen', neutral!
Bryx sector
- Anzat: homeworld of Anzati race (parasitic telepathic assassins) [NB: vampires...], orbital spaceports, thriving black market & smugglers den
- Loken III: industrial planet, headquarters of TransTech Droidworks (controlled by Trade Federation), CIS foundry world
Lifh sector
- Diado: ice planet, heavily industrialized, site of Techno Union facility [NB: prototyping an advanced bomber-fighter], under CIS occupation
Bortele Cluster sector
- Ingo: rich in scatrium & fravisite (rare ores), mining facilities run by Tagge Mining Company; nearby shipyard owned by Fromm Gang
Halla sector
- Bimmisaari: homeworld of Bimms races, major trade hub on Ilosian Spur, site of major Refugee Relief Movement settlements
- Boz Pity: 'graveyard planet' (homeworld of extinct Gargantelle race), site of major Separatist base & staging point
Taldot sector
- Balamak: major agriworld and trade hub, site of Republic's primary regional Holonet relay node [NB: and CIS's prototype comm-jammer platform]
- Charros IV: homeworld of Xi Charrian race (cathedral-factories), headquarters of Haor Chall Engineering (starfighters, e.g., vulture droids), CIS 'Foundry'
- Togoria: homeworld of Togorian race (pastoral lions), resource-rich but unindustrialized, known for exporting sc'rath (custom-made electrified scimitars)
Mytaranor sector
- Alaris Prime: Wookie colony world, headquarters of KashyCorp, site of former Decimator factory, Jedi Temple ruins, and Abyss Watchers businesses
- Chamble: major trade hub on Randon Run, headquarters of Bansche Tech (droids, e.g., assassin droids sold on the black market)
- Kashyyyk: homeworld of Wookie race and wroshyr trees, home of Chewbacca [NB: and Kento & Mallie Marek], headquarters of Wookie Trade Guild, KashyCorp (heavy starships), Uurbahhahvoovv Joiners & Artisans (evac-pods), Claatuvac Guild (hologrid of secret hyperlanes), site of Abyss Watcher base
- Messert: major financial hub in region, headquarters of Messert Mines Corporation and Kashyyyk Combine (bank for Wookie planets)
- Rakhuuun: Wookie colony world, site of Rakhuuun Shipyard (produces civilian starships, e.g., yachts and freighters)
- Trandosha: homeworld of Trandoshan race (slavers), site of Warlord's Palace, orbited by Wasskah ('hunting moon,' with Wookies as prey)
Terr'skiar sector
- Quas Killam: homeworld of Killam race, rich in trinium (weapon systems), factories & mining facilities run by Trade Federation, under CIS occupation
Trax sector
- Draenell's Point: heavily populated agriworld, headquarters of Draenell Industries and Thulpin Agriculture
- Essowyn: homeworld of Saurton race, cavern-cities, site of Thergum Pits, rich in iron alloys, mining facilities run by Messert Mines Corporation
- Genian: rocky planet known for secure bank vaults & research labs, headquarters of Fry Industries (security systems) owned by Talesan Fry (tech genius)
- Longwind: originally a Republic penal colony, now a major agriworld and primary textile producer in Mid Rim
- Nurstin: rocky planet rich in corthel and cortheum (droid photoreceptors), mining facilities run by Messert Mines Corporation
Kastolar sector
- Chalacta: home of Yudrish Senate (anti-militarist Senate),center of 'Chalactan Adepts' faith (resistant to mind tricks), site of Temple of Illumination
- Durkteel: homeworld of Saurin race, headquarters of Sublight Products ('Subpro') Corporation (starships e.g. NovaSword superiority fighter) and Icaris Tool & Drive (Subpro parts supplier), thriving agriworld, site of orbital shipyards and Refugee Relief settlements
- Kween: site of Kwenn Space Station (massive drydock & supply depot with up to six docking ports sized for capital ships)
- Sneeve: homeworld of Sneeve race, heavily populated mountain planet, site of major Refugee Relief Movement settlements
- Ubrikkia: industrial planet controlled by the Hutts, headquarters of Ubrikkian Industries (civilian vehicles & droids) owned by Kuat Drive Yards
"...As you see, this region is far more interesting than most of the others in the Mid Rim, possibly due to proximity of Hutt Space, probably due to the number of Separatist-aligned industrial planets that are collectively known as the 'Foundry of the Confederacy'. As before, I've highlighted Bimmisaari, Durkteel, and Sneeve as major refugee worlds, along with Uyter as the home system of a major anti-Palpatine politician who's been a strong ally of our humanitarian work. I've also highlighted Genian due to your interest in Talesan Fry's latest device, and Kashyyyk due to our previous work with the Wookies."
"Thank you, PR-1."
"Most welcome, Mistress. In addition to these, however, there are a number of... curiosities in this region. First, turn your attention to Va'art II, an unassuming jungle moon with the galaxy's sole natural predator against Force users. Taozin are giant bugs -- big, big bugs, bigger than most starships, reaching up to 20 meters in length -- with lightsaber-resistant armor and a natural ability to interfere with others' use of the Force."
"Oh. Oh my."
"Fortunately, while they are damnably hard to kill, they can apparently be harvested. There are records of 'taozin amulets' made out of the animals skin, that allows the wearer to interfere with Force abilities, including Force sight and battle precognition. If we're ramping up for a war against a Sith Lord--"
"Oh my. Between this and the ysalamiri on Myrkr... Mr. Palpatine's life is about to get interesting." Ciaran barely resisted the urge to cackle.
"As you say, Mistress. Finally, I also want to draw your attention to Abhean, a planet known for their supersized shipyards, capable of building single vessels larger than most capital ships. While they're currently a 'Foundry' world for the CIS, their best known product was a ship built several hundred years ago called the Chu'unthor."
"PR-1?"
"Yes, Lady Ciaran."
"Why did I just feel a chill go down my back?"
"...I'm afraid I can't answer, though it might have to do with the fact that the Chu'unthor was designed as a praxeum-ship, as a mobile Jedi Academy, with fully automated facilities, room for 10,000 students, requiring only a token crew to fly the thing around. Not to mention-- Lady Ciaran?"
"...Yes, PR-1?"
"You may want to... yes, there." PR-1 gestured. "You were salivating."
"Damn straight I was. But there was something else you were about to mention?"
"Well, I hadn't yet mentioned that the Chu'unthor provided quarters and teaching facilities for multiple universities and unaffiliated research teams interested in meeting Force-sensitive species and races across the galaxy. Nor had I mentioned that the Chu'unthor contained a near-comprehensive Jedi Library and Archive."
"Yup, that's it: I want one."
"Unfortunately--"
"Oh, no no no, don't tell me it was destroyed."
"I won't. I do regret to inform you that the Chu'unthor is unfortunately lost, and hasn't been seen in 200 years."
"...Can we make one of our own?"
"I'm afraid that won't be necessary." PR-1 lacked the hardware for facial expressions, but Ciaran could have sworn the droid was smirking.
"What do you mean?"
"Well, I told you that Chu'unthor hasn't been seen in 200 years, but I very carefully didn't mention that records indicate it crashed on a planet, or that shortly after its disappearance Master Yoda led a rather significant number of Jedi to that same planet and returned with the missing students."
"Tell me where."
"...It was last seen over Dathomir."
This time, Ciaran didn't bother resisting the urge to cackle.
Some time later: "Feeling better, Lady Ciaran?"
"You have no idea, PR-1. I trust...?"
"I've already made a dozen notes for the principals, and a dozen more reminders to send in an hour."
"You are a marvel."
"I try, Mistress."
"You succeed."
"Thank you, Lady Ciaran. Shall we proceed?"
"...There's another? Oh. Right then."
"The last area to cover extends through the Expansion Region due south of Neutral Space, and due east of the galactic Core."
Expansion Region
Prackla sector
- Cartao: homeworld of Cranscoc race, headquarters of Spaarti Creations (produce Spaarti cloning cylinders)
Locris sector
- Pirin: major trade hub on Perlemian Trade Route, headquarters of Kontag (starship security systems), regional office of Bounty Hunters' Guild
- Sermeria: major mining & agriworld on Perlemian Trade Route, current Senator is Ister Paddle (member of Loyalist Committee, opposes neutrality)
Hali sector
Nojic sector
- Valgauth: resource-rich but heavily polluted industrial world, headquarters of Trigdale Metallurgy (mineral/crystal mining & refining)
Dona Laza sector
Biivren sector
Annecy sector
Couronne sector
Axion sector
- Arkinnea: homeworld of Yuru race, site of 'Hidden Temple' (Jedi outpost), under CIS occupation
- Axion: Colicoid colony world, R&D facilities run by Colla Design (designed W-series droidekas, droid tri-fighters, buzz droids), CIS 'Foundry' world
Oeiros sector
Ghost Nebula sector
- Umbara: homeworld of Umbaran race, childhood home of Sly Moore (Palpatine aide), site of Sith Academy, produces Millicreep (assassin droids)
Noori sector
"...Nothing as thrilling as the last region, as you can see. I've highlighted Sermeria as a potential recruit for CNS, despite the attitude of its current senator; they're a close neighbor to Onderon, and every Separatist saber-rattling in the area makes them more uncertain of their position. Freeing Onderon and drawing it into the CNS would provide a decisive example that Neutral Space is for systems that truly seek peace. As a trade world, Cartao is less interesting, but as the corporate headquarters of Spaarti Creations, that produces the only cloning technology outside of Kamino, it's decidedly worth your attention. Further south, Axion is in a rather peculiar position, as a major CIS 'Foundry' world despite being surrounded by Republic space. Its neighbor Arkinnea is a quiet world suffering a rather brutal occupation to maintain Axion's control of the area. A victory at Onderon would destabilize the regime there, and undercut Axion's control of the local hyperlane access to the sector."
"Interesting. Nothing we can do for the moment, but it'll be worth keeping our eye on as the situation in Onderon progresses."
"Indeed, Lady Cia--"
Suddenly they heard the blaring sound of the Vault alarm. Ciaran's eyes widened, and her hand leapt to the comms. "Report."
Gulan sounded out of breath. "Thief in the Vault. Didn't get a good look, but I... nope, definitely a Changeling. She snuck through my legs to escape, but had to ditch her bag of goodies to make it out, and she was apparently tall enough to reach the Darksaber display."
"Got it. Report back if there's anything else." Ciaran pressed a different button. "All teams, this is Lady Ciaran. Intruder is a Changeling. Double-check all identities, work only in teams of two or more." The comm beeped at her. "Yes?"
"We got her, ma'am."
"Wait, really?"
"Yup, ran right into us. Looked like Gulan had a cousin, till we realized we only have one Bothan on site. Intruder down, no casualties due to Tyro, and Mr. Cata has taken custody. Also, uh... I think I'll let Mr. Cata explain this one, actually."
Ciaran sensed a headache in her future. "All right. Have Grandfather bring her up for an interview. Report back if any developments." Ciaran pressed the second button again. "All teams... intruder has been taken into custody. Remain on heightened alert until we confirm that she was working alone." Ciaran eased back in her lounging chair. "Looks like that will be all, PR-1. Can you go be a one-droid welcoming committee?"
"Yes, Lady Ciaran."
"And PR-1?"
"Yes, Lady Ciaran?"
"Good work today."
<><><><><><><>
A/N: Like last time, halfway a quarter of the way through when @Panory posted his omake, and I just had to tie things together. Also, holy shit this was longer than I expected it to be. Honestly, besides the Kashyyyk Region there isn't even many interesting systems to talk about. It's just... well, I wanted to give a slice of 'in the life of Lady Ciaran', and then it just kept going and going. And then PR-1 decided to be a character instead of just an authorial proxy for info-dumping, and then I had to give a good reason why there's virtually nothing on the northern Mid Rim in Star Wars canon or extended universe. <sighs heavily>
In more pleasing news, holy crap am I excited to find an in-character way for Ciaran to learn about the Chu'unthor praxeum ship on Dathomir. Turns out it was built in a Mid-Rim shipyard right next door! And if PR-1 really were consulting with the other advisors on what Ciaran would find interesting, there's no way he could possibly miss that one.
As for 'things I can't say in-character': I do want to point out that 'Mobus' in the Chiss Ascendancy isn't interesting just because it's a source of Corusca gems. No, that was just my excuse to get people to notice the fact that it's also the current location of the living planet Zonama Sekot, a colony world & kinda-enemy of the Yuuzhan Vong. If we do somehow survive long enough to face their invasion, Zonama Sekot would be a huge resource, and it'll be sitting in orbit around Mobus for the next 50 years or so.
Also in the 'things I can't say in-character' category: agrocite-infused fuel cells are my new head canon for Chewie's super-powered bowcaster in 'The Force Awakens'. Applying a compound designed to supercharge a turbolaser, to something the size of a blaster? It should be wickedly powerful.
Finally: I can't help but notice that holy sithspit there's a bunch of possible anti-Force weapons we could be developing. Ysalamiri tree packs, cortosis battle droids, Gurlanin agents, senflax neurotoxins, taozin amulets -- or we could just send Grievous to capture a live taozin and smuggle it into the Chancellor's office. And with Jango Fett (with his Cul'val Dar and ties to the clone commandos) and HK-47 (with his... everything-ness) on the docket for recruitment, we have a lot of potential delivery systems.
First, turn your attention to Va'art II, an unassuming jungle moon with the galaxy's sole natural predator against Force users. Taozin are giant bugs -- big, big bugs, bigger than most starships, reaching up to 20 meters in length -- with lightsaber-resistant armor and a natural ability to interfere with others' use of the Force."
A/N: Be advised: this is longer than the first one. Yeah, it got away from me. Less info-dumpy, though.
Briefing the Boss Pt. 2
"...which makes three dozen districts of the Tarisan Upper and Middle City that have been cleared for resettlement. And with the latest reports from our Undercity reclamation teams, we've finally dispensed with those ridiculous rumors that somehow rakghouls were plaguing the lower levels. Our Paigun actuaries are predicting an 87% increase in refugee traffic to the Lower and Undercity over the next quarter."
"Excellent. Though... did the Paigun tell you what the number would have been if we hadn't hired that Lellish team to run the marketing?"
Borvo looked crestfallen. On a face like his, it vaguely resembled hunger. "They told me the increase would have capped at plus-20."
Ciaran smirked. "And that means...?"
"You were right, Lady Ciaran." Borvo sighed.
"Marvelous. By my reckoning, our current tally is twenty-eight to four?"
"Yes, Lady Ciaran."
"Do cheer up, you could still make a comeback. Best of 57?"
"You've been taking lessons from Xruk again, haven't you?"
"Oh, Borvo, you say the nicest things. Do comm me if you find anything else to report?"
"I shall."
Ciaran eased back into her Kesslerite lounging chair as the hologram vanished. Who knew a missile manufacturer could build such comfortable chairs?
"Lady Ciaran?"
"Yes? Come in, PR-1. Any news from Yablari?"
"Thank you, Mistress, and not yet. Despite their interest in our cultivation of Maridun, they're still inclined to wait for the other member-systems of the Commonality before joining the CNS."
"So we'll just have to wait till Mr. Greenshade convenes the Common Assembly, then."
"Indeed. Though I doubt we'll have to wait long -- the Vorzydiaks are positively green at the growth potential of joining Neutral Space, and the Columexi aren't far behind. Greenshade would face a recall if he lets things slide too much longer."
"So you've told me. Though... didn't you tell me earlier that the Vorzydiaks are born with green skin?"
"...Hoped you wouldn't notice. A short of the circuits."
"Sure." Ciaran smirked. "But I've distracted you long enough -- was there a reason you came in?"
"Oh. Yes, Lady Ciaran. That is... last time you told me to look in things, and then you were off for that Asclepius mission, and I didn't have anything else to be doing, and--"
"Stop."
"...Yes?"
"Topic sentence?"
"Oh, right. The survey of the Mid Rim you assigned me."
"Ah. Having trouble with it?"
"No, Lady Ciaran. I'm... I've finished it."
"Wait, what? Finished, already? It's been less than a week!"
"Yes, I know, Mistress. The thing is... well, the thing is the Mid Rim is just plain boring. All those planets, and systems, and people, and all of it unfailingly dull. It was as though The Maker coded one agriworld into existence, decided that was good enough, and replicated the same one in a thousand other systems whenever He needed to fill up space."
"...That bad?"
"Worse. Even the trade worlds were boring! There must be at least a billion starships that pass through the Mid Rim each week by the Celanon Spur, and I only found three ports of call that were even slightly worthy of note!"
"Sithspit, even my data-droid would fall asleep on a diet like that. Do you know why there was such a difference?"
Despite his lack of facial expression, PR-1 somehow managed to look abashed. "Yes, Lady Ciaran. I consulted with Borvo and with your esteemed grandfather, but neither of them were able to assist. I managed yesterday to secure an appointment with Mitth'raw'nuruodo and--"
"Just... call him Thrawn like the rest of us. Please?"
Now PR-1 looked quite put out. "That's not his name!"
"Doesn't stop him from responding to it."
"He may respect the enunciatory difficulty his birth name poses to non-Chiss speakers, but that's no excuse for not trying!"
Ciaran looked bemused. "I'm led to believe nicknames are customary among close friends."
"Not always, and not without the other party's assent!"
"But he gave us permission...?"
"Compliance is not assent. Just because OOM-9 responds to 'Roger' doesn't mean he likes it."
"Yes, well, calling him 'whom-nine' would be silly, and 'oh-oh-em-nine' takes too long. Besides, Roger is a B1 -- he's programmed for tactics, not conversation."
"Yet it still took the better part of a decade to badger him into responding to it."
"Again: he's a B1, not a protocol droid. It took that long for him to understand the concept of a nickname."
"Droids don't get nicknames. Droids have designations, hard-coded into our cognitive modules. To deny us that, is to deny us our identity."
"...Oh. Sithspit. You still haven't forgiven me for suggesting we call you 'Priam', have you?"
"My designation is PR-1." The droid looked mutinous.
"Yes. You're right. And I... apologize, for not respecting that. Now then. If I promise to never again try to rename you..." PR-1 curtly nodded at Ciaran's gaze, "will you tell me how... Mitth'raw'nuruodo" Ciaran choked on the name "explained the Mid Rim situation?"
"Indeed, Lady Ciaran." A mollified PR-1 responded. "Thank you, Lady Ciaran. I consulted with Mitth'raw'nuruodo yesterday, and found his answer quite illuminating. To be specific: it hinges on our definition of 'interesting'. As you know, the Core and Colonies worlds were the first systems settled, so they tend to have the longest histories, or tend to have the largest populations, or tend to have good reason why they are under-populated, or something else entirely. In contrast, the Outer Rim was settled last, so it tends to be much more thinly populated, but with much more turbulent and eventful histories. For business purposes, the Core and Colonies are the galaxy's consumer class, so the biggest businesses compete over market share, while in the Outer Rim they compete over control of systems and sectors due to the lack of regulation. This also affects politics -- the Core and Colonies face direct oversight from the Galactic Republic, while there are still bustling slave markets all around the Outer Rim. Thus, in the center of things, as on the periphery, life is busy and important and most of all interesting."
"...But that's not the case in between. Is that right?"
"Precisely, Lady Ciaran. The Mid Rim is far enough from the galactic center to be underpopulated, but close enough to deal with the Senate's oversight and busybody-ness. Perhaps at the beginning, these systems were on the frontier, but the frontier moved on, and they remained. In business terms, they're not independent enough to be entrepreneurs, but not connected enough to be corporate executives -- they're the struggling small businesses of the galaxy. By way of example: do you remember the Yinchorri Uprising about a decade back?"
"Of course!"
"Do you remember what that Uprising consisted of?"
"...They killed a few Jedi, didn't they?"
"That came later. The Uprising itself consisted of the Yinchorri warrior-caste invading three of its neighboring systems, and destroying a nearby space station. The Jedi responded by sending a master and padawan to negotiate a cease-fire; the pair were killed. The Jedi launched a larger task force of masters and knights, backed by Judicial Force troops, which put an end to the Uprising within a few weeks. This was enough to dominate Coruscant headlines for the better part of the year. Now compare to the Outer Rim. What was the final tally of deaths and damages due to Operation Absolute Eclipse, again?"
Ciaran's eyes widened.
"True, it happened in the middle of a war, but even if it were peacetime, it'd have been off the headlines within a month. The rivalry between the Hutts and the Neimoidians has been simmering for the better part of a century, with dozens of systems and space stations trading hands over that time, yet the Jedi only sent ambassadors once the Neimoidians threatened Naboo -- and Naboo belongs in the Mid Rim."
"Huh."
"So there's your answer: the Mid Rim is boring because it's well governed, and the Outer Rim is interesting because it isn't. All that to say: I made sure to clear your schedule for three hours, so feel free to take notes and ask questions. First, as before, let me show you the map."
"As you can see, Neutral Space is colored purple, with nearby sectors organized into eight large regions. Given the glaring lack of interesting things in the Mid Rim, I decided to expand my gaze to the nearby sectors of the Expansion Region. I also decided to include some of the known systems in the Unknown Regions, including -- with Mitth'raw'nuruodo's permisssion -- the key systems of the Chiss Ascendancy."
"Excellent work."
"First, though, the Mid Rim sectors immediately west of Neutral Space. As there are no major hyperlanes in this region, I've taken to calling it "Transvulta West," after the sole neutral sector in the Mid Rim."
Mezeg sector
Strabin sector
- Lavisar: childhood home of Cin Drallig (Jedi battlemaster), resource-rich mining/industrial planet, headquarters of Skyrung Manufacturing (starships)
Hewett sector
Hollan sector
- Tartaglia: isolated planet near Fusion Clouds nebula, site of legendary 'Nova Vaults' (underground treasure vaults from Old Republic era)
Homon sector
Shiwal sector
Nicandra sector
Kordu sector
Alderath sector
M'shinni sector
- Genassa: homeworld of M'shinni race (mammals with moss symbiotes), major agriworld known for botanical bioengineering
Ottega sector
- Ithor: homeworld of Ithorian race (best agriculturalists in galaxy) and telepathic bafforr trees, headquarters of Ithorian SkyYards (build 'herdship cities')
Urce Space sector
Kesh sector
- Ebra: homeworld of Ebranite race, rich in lu-ramin (medicinal oil), trade controlled by Carosi XII
"... Yes, rather underwhelming. While yet another resource-rich world with yet another starship company might be nice, I imagine you'll find Lavisar more interesting as the homeworld of the current Jedi Temple battlemaster, who is by all accounts one of the greatest combat swordsmen to ever live. The other key system in this region is Ithor, homeworld of the Ithorians, who are universally acknowledged as the greatest agriculturalists in the galaxy. Any other species, system or syndicate that work in the field -- such as the M'Shinni of nearby Genassa -- are compared and invariably found wanting to the Ithorians. If we ever need to restore a planet's ecosystem, they should be the first ones we comm. Better still, the Ithorians are pacifists, and your reputation as a humanitarian and peacemaker will have gone a long way in securing their trust. Of all the systems that might join us in the next month or two, Ithor ranks at the top of the list."
"Next, if you'll turn your attention further west, to the region I'm calling 'Bright Jewel' after the star of Ord Mantell, which lies at the heart of this area."
Droma sector
Irishi sector
- Obredaan: homeworld of Jin'ha race (weaponsmiths), rich in cortosis (anti-lightsaber metal), trade world, controlled by Trade Federation
- Ord Tessebok: thriving and heavily populated trade world, site of major Refugee Relief Movement settlements
Tyan sector
Qiilura sector
- Qiilura: homeworld of Gurlanin race (Force-sensitive spies), rich in barq (delicacy), major agriworld formerly controlled by Trade Federation
Bright Jewel sector
- Aleen: home of 'Orphne', homeworld of Aleena (surface) and Kindalo (underworld) races, site of 'Great Seal' (Jedi outpost) and ancient ruins
- Ord Mantell: homeworld of Savrip race, site of Jubilee Wheel & Tansarii Point stations, major trade/banking hub world formerly controlled by Black Sun
Luuq sector
Vadigult sector
Abaar sector
Manoe sector
Dohu sector
Tiala sector
Thory sector
Corthenia sector
Pacor sector
Barsa sector
"... Obredaan and Qiilura both have tied to the Trade Federation, so recruiting them might prove difficult. On the other hand, they are deep in Republic space, and the Trade Federation's reputation in the Mid Rim is pretty abysmal after the invasion of Naboo. Obredaan has one major claim to fame: it is a major supplier of cortosis weapons, which cause lightsabers to 'short out' on contact. You ever need to kill a Jedi -- or, say, a Sith Lord -- a cortosis weapon is your best bet. As for Qiilura... well, just look at its native population. Gurlanins are Force-sensitive shapeshifters, who have an improved version of 'Buried Presence' trick that makes them invisible to normal sight as well as the Force. For this reason, they are terrifyingly competent as spies and assassins. Early last year, the Senate brokered a deal to evict all human colonists from the planet in exchange for Gurlanin support in the war. The local humans refused the deal and the Senate let them get away with it. That's when the Gurlanins sent two agents to Coruscant. The Senate promptly decided to evict the human colonists at blaster-point, and the deal was upheld. You do not want to get on the Gurlanins' bad side. On the other hand, it was apparently Omega Squad commandos trained by Kal Skirata that initially liberated the planet, so we do have an 'in' if we want their cooperation...."
"Oh. PR-1?"
"Yes, Lady Ciaran."
"Make a note of it."
"Already done."
"No, I mean... make a dozen notes and send them to each of the other principals, then make a dozen more just to make sure they take it seriously. If it took two Gurlanin agents to bring the Senate to its knees, what could a full squad of them do?"
"Indeed, Lady Ciaran."
Ciaran made a noise that faintly resembled a giggle. Though she would deny it if asked. She took a slow, deep breath. "Nope. Too much, too giddy, too many daydreams." She shook her head. "Right. What's next?"
"That would be the third region, Mistress, which I've named after the primary hyperlane that runs from this region to Coruscant."
Glythe sector
- Iridonia: homeworld of Zabrak race, childhood home of Maris Brood and Agen Kolar (Jedi), site of Sith Academy, urbanized lava planet with valley-farms
- Vortex: homeworld of Vor race, site of 'Cathedral of Winds' galactic wonder, major tourist destination
Vorc sector
Jaloor sector
- Glee Anselm: homeworld of Nautolan race, childhood home of Kit Fisto (Jedi), waterworld with thriving aquaculture
Outer Jalor sector
- Kril'Dor: gas giant rich in tibanna (rare fuel), ringed by gas mining stations
Belshar sector
- Ord Varee: thriving and heavily populated trade world, site of major Refugee Relief Movement settlements
Chaama sector
Londori sector
Ariarch sector
Churnis sector
- Ansion: homeworld of Ansionian race, minor agriworld, member of 'Malarian Alliance' & 'Keitumite Mutual Military Treaty' (extends to Core Worlds)
Rago sector
"...I highlight Ord Varee if only because you ought to be familiar with each of the major worlds taking in significant numbers of refugees, as your humanitarian work will go a long way toward inducing these systems to join the CNS. As for Iridonia, well, the Zabrak homeworld has a history with the Force, but I rather thought you'd find the geology more interesting."
"How so?"
"How many agriworlds can you name, that are dominated by continent-sized lava flows and city-sized pools of acid?"
"...You say it's an agriworld?"
"Produces most of the food for the sector, I'm told."
"...How?!"
"They carved valleys out of the volcanic soil, place energy field generators to protect against the acid, and cultivate every square inch. I understand the Ithorians helped set it up."
"Of course they did." Ciaran snarked. "Was that all?"
"No, actually, you may find the last planet I've highlighted to be the most intriguing. Shortly before the outbreak of war, your ex-employee Shu Mai of the Commerce Guild noticed a peculiarity -- that a backwater world called Ansion was at the center of a number of interlocking trade treaties and defensive pacts around the region. Specifically, if Ansion joined the Separatists, those treaty obligations would force a dozen other worlds to follow suit, and those systems' treaty obligations would bring a dozen sectors into the CIS, reaching deep into the Core and Colonies. When the Republic noticed her game, they sent a team of Jedi ambassadors -- incidentally, including Obi-Wan and Anakin -- to deal with it. Shu Mai failed, of course, but there's no reason to think we couldn't succeed. Ansion has no desire to participate in the war, and the Republic has not openly opposed our diplomatic overtures for Republic systems to join the CNS. Swing Ansion, and the rest of the galaxy may follow."
"Huh. Do make a note of it."
"Yes, Lady Ciaran. Now, that covers the northern Mid Rim, but I decided to include the Freestanding Subsectors and the northern Unknown Regions in my survey. I'm calling this area the galaxy's 'Wild West'."
Expansion Regions
Freestanding Subsectors
Mid Rim
Freestanding Subsectors
- Jedha: homeworld of Jedi Order, center of 'Guardians of the Whills' Force sect, site of Temple of the Kyber, rich in kyber lightsaber crystals
Wild Space
Freestanding Subsectors
- Acherin: isolated trade world, controlled by IGBC, known for high-security vaults and currency exchanges, site of Sood Spaceport
Utegetu Nebula sector
- Chiss Redoubt: member of Chiss Ascendancy, terminus of Way of Schesa hyperlane, site of multiple Chiss 'Firepoint' fortresses
Unknown Regions
7G Sector
- Ilum: ice planet rich in kathracite, mephite, and pontite ('Adegan') lightsaber crystals, site of 'Crystal Caves' and the 'Jedi Temple' (nexus)
Chiss Ascendancy
- Cioral: heavily urbanized trade world on 'Path of the Houses' hyperlane, headquarters of House Csapla (colonial affairs & agriculture)
- Copero: major trade world on 'Path of the Houses' hyperlane, headquarters of House Mitth (military affairs), site of Copera Shipyard
- Csaus: major trade world on 'Path of the Houses' hyperlane, headquarters of House Inrokini (industry, science & communications)
- Csilla: capital of Chiss Ascendancy, heavily populated hub on 'Path of the Houses' & 'Vagaari Corridor' hyperlanes, site of Expeditionary Library
- Mobus: gas giant in Klasse Ephemora A system, rich in Corusca gems [NB: orbited by living planet Zonama Sekot, colony world of Yuuzhan Vong...]
- Naporar: trade world on 'Path of the Houses', headquarters of House Nuruodo (military affairs) and of Chiss Expansionary Defense Force
- Rhigar: terminus of 'Path of the Houses' in the Rata Nebula, controlled by House Nuruodo [NB: site of Syndic Mitth'raw'nuruodo Military Academy]
- Sarvchi: trade world on 'Path of the Houses' hyperlane, headquarters of House Chaf (diplomacy)
- Sposia: major trade world on 'Path of the Houses' hyperlane, headquarters of House Sabosen (medicine & education)
Killik Space
- Ruu: member of The Colony, moon of Qoribu, agriworld for The Colony, headquarters of 'Saras Nest' (weavers/shapers)
- Kr: member of The Colony, moon of Qoribu, rich in ethmane (blocks sensors), secret headquarters of the 'Dark Next' (spies/assassins)
- Yoggoy: adopted homeworld of Killik race (hive-minded insects), capital of 'The Colony', at war with Chiss Ascendancy
Kharmort's Miasma
- Vagar Praxut: homeworld of Vagaari race (slavers), capital of Vagaari Empire, at war with Chiss Ascendancy
"...Jedha is a bit further south than the rest, but if anything desires special mention, it'd be the original homeworld of the entire Jedi Order. Definitely a priority destination for our Discovery Corps, if only for those kyber crystals. We could also send a team to Ilum, but I'm unsure if the Temple there has been completely snowed over, or if the Jedi have resumed their annual 'Gathering' trips with Padawan Learners. Either system would be have a wealth of artifacts and history to discover, though. As for Acherin, it's a IGBC client world, and will almost certain follow Muunilist into the CNS despite their distance."
"Good to know."
"Finally, by consulting with Mitth'raw'nuruodo I've compiled a list of the major worlds and points of interest in the Chiss Ascandancy. You might be interested to learn that the Chiss has a local source of luxury Corusca gems on Mobus, when the rest of the galaxy must rely on only a single other source: in the atmosphere of Yavin Prime."
"Interesting. I wonder what makes Mobus so special?"
"Indeed, Lady Ciaran. Now, to proceed with the fifth region, cutting around the entire northern Expansion in a straight line."
Expansion Region
Mondress sector
Vardoss sector
Hijoan Space sector
Neshei sector
Sarla sector
Carvandir sector
Deadalis sector
- Dorin: homeworld of Kel Dor race, childhood home of Plo Koon (Jedi), center of 'Baran Do Sages' Force sect (meditation), site of Jedi Enclave
Ryborean sector
Drannik sector
Trestis sector
Immalia sector
Fellwe sector
- Yinchorr: homeworld of Yinchorri race (Force-resistant thugs), under Republic interdiction due to Yinchorri Uprising a decade ago
Ehosiq sector
- Kiros: lush planet, site of Twi'lek artisan colony recently enslaved by Zygerrians [NB: freed by Anakin and Obi-Wan]
- Shili: homeworld of Togruta race, childhood home of Shaak Ti and Ahsoka Tano (Jedi), major trade hub near Hydian Way
Corpheli sector
- Corphelion: asteroid space station (resorts), site of Corphelion Comets (galactic wonder & tourist destination)
Lostar sector
- Nessem: major trade hub on Hydian Way, headquarters of Nessem Shipyards (starship production & design), controlled by Trade Federation
- Teya IV: site of Teyan Praxeum (Jedi) and 'Cave of Truth', origin of Teyan Apologia (6-volume work, origin of Jedi practice of only training children)
Greater Plooriod sector
- Corsin: lush urbanized planet, major trade hub between Hydian Way and Vaathkree Trade Corridor
Dalqan sector
Ploo sector
"...I've already mentioned the Yinchorri Uprising, and I believe you've already discussed the insular Baran Do Sages. Almost as interesting as either of them is Teya IV, which hosted the Jedi training academy that pioneered the current practice of only training children to become Jedi, and rejecting any who were too old, too accustomed to strong emotion."
"And a hearty 'fuck you' right back atcha. Having rewritten the Code to delegitimize any hint of humanity, now they rewrite the rules of the Order itself to minimize the chance that any humanity might accidentally seep in. What self-righteous pricks."
"Indeed, Lady Ciaran. You've made your--"
"Eh, right now I'm feeling more like Darth Traya."
"Very well: Darth Traya. You've made your sentiments in this matter known many times."
"Heh. You do keep me on my toes, don't you?"
"I do try, Darth Tra--"
"And I'm back to being Ciaran again."
"As you say. Shall I move on to the next region?"
"Certainly."
"Having completed the 'northern' part of the Mid Rim and Expansion Region, we turn to the eastern part. We start with the Mid Rim sectors due east of Neutral Space, specifically east of Transvulta."
Mid Rim
Thusa sector
- Dahgee: rich in Dahgee lightsaber crystals (zigzagging blade), center of 'Dahgee Jedi' Force sect
Vensori sector
- Katarr: former Miraluka colony world, rendered uninhabitable by Darth Nihilus in 3952 BBY
Trans-Gascon sector
Msst sector
- Cadannia: jungle planet, only known source of senflax (neurotoxin that disrupts ability to access/manipulate the Force)
- Garos IV: only known source of hibridium (less effective cloaking), site of University of Garos & major Refugee Relief Movement settlements
Esuain sector
- Anteevy: ice planet, rich in phrikite (used for lightsaber-proof alloy)
- Kromus: heavily populated planet, site of CIS research facility & shipyard [NB: currently developing Shadowblade aka 'Starkiller' superweapon]
Perkell sector
- Daminia: desert planet, only known source of damindium/daminid lightsaber crystals (broader blade)
- Gromas XVI: moon of Gromas, primary source of phrik in galaxy (lightsaber-proof alloy)
- Mooga: homeworld of Moogan race, smugglers haven, controlled by Commerce Guild
Tennuutta sector
Romintine sector
- Romin: homeworld of Romin race, childhood home of Elsae and Eldewn Sarvool (Force-sensitive twins), site of Cloudflower Wall (now defunct)
Halori sector
- Khorm: homeworld of Khormai race, rich in agrocite (very rare, can boost turbolaser blasts), slave mines run by warlords, under CIS occupation
- Velmor: homeworld of Velmoc race, rich in velmstone (natural permacrete), resource-rich but known for art & literature exports
Truum:
- Contruum: childhood home of Airen Cracken [NB: Rebel general], rich in borium (ore), major trade world on Vaathkree Trade Corridor
"...I've highlighted Garos IV due to its involvement in refugee resettlement. You might find its neighbor Cardannia more interesting however -- from what reports I've seen, senflax is a neurotoxin specifically designed to incapacitate Force user. If we're looking for a solution to our Sidious problem, that might be one possibility."
"Quite right -- please make a note of it."
"I shall. I also confess myself intrigued by Dahgee -- apparently, lightsaber crystals taken from that planet generate in a dark, zigzagging blade, and a small Jedi-based Force sect has grown up around those caves."
"Interesting."
"Speaking of odd or interesting minerals, I've mentioned phrik several times before, but Gromas XVI is the primary source of the metal for the entire galaxy, and it's right on our borders in the east. Likewise, I imagine we'd be interested in Khorm due to the brutally repressive slave regime that's mining the planet for the Separatist war machine, but we would have good business reasons to free the planet as well. Khorm is rich in an exceptionally rare mineral called agrocite, which apparently can be added to turbolaser energy cells to amplify their explosive and penetrating power. As far as I know, it's only been tried on larger guns, but I can't help but wonder if agrocite could be used for smaller hand-held blasters as well."
"Ooh, I like the sound of that."
"I thought you might. Next, we turn to the region between the Perlemian Trade Route and Pabol Sleheyron hyperlanes, most notably including Kashyyyk.
Lantillian sector
- Lantilles: heavily urbanized trade hub on Perlemian Trade Route, headquarters of Lantillian ShipWrights (reliable starships, e.g. GX1 Short Hauler)
- Uyter: major agriworld on Randon Run, current Senator is Lexi Dio (anti-Palpatine member of Loyalist Committee, strong advocate for refugee relief)
Roche sector
- Roche: asteroid field, homeworld of Verpine race (starship engineers), headquarters of Roche Industries (droids) and 'Slayn & Korpil' (starships)
- Va'art II: jungle moon, homeworld of Taozin species (Force-invisible bugs with lightsaber-resistant armor), can be converted into taozin nodules/amulets
Sarka sector
- Sarka: jungle planet, homeworld of Sarkan race, only known source in 'Nova rubies' (high-demand luxury gemstone), heavily populated cave cities
Talcene sector
- Caramm: massive industrial center, controlled by Haor Chall Engineering to produce HMP Predator-class gunships, under CIS occupation
- Metalorn: massive industrial center, controlled by Techno Union [NB: to produce C-B3 cortosis battle droids], 'Foundry of the Confederacy' world
Eucer sector
Maldrood sector
- Abhean: orbital shipyards run by 'Republic Fleet Systems' (super-capital ships, e.g. Chu'unthor praxeum-ship), 'Foundry of the Confederacy' world
- Besh Gorgon: site of heavily-armed 'The Wheel' space station (casino & smuggling den), thriving black market in Tirefin spice (drug)
- Centares: heavily urbanized trade hub and resort world on Perlemian Trade Route, site of 'Rubyflame Lake', 'Foundry of the Confederacy' world
- Ganzik: orbital shipyards run by Mesen Corporation (light spacecraft, e.g. SCT Scout Craft)
- New Holstice: homeworld of 'memory moth' species, site of 'Jedi Monument to the Fallen', neutral hospital world,
Bryx sector
- Anzat: homeworld of Anzati race (parasitic telepathy), orbital spaceports used for off-world trade, thriving black market & smugglers den
- Loken III: industrial planet, headquarters of TransTech Droidworks (controlled by Trade Federation), 'Foundry of the Confederacy' world
Lifh sector
- Diado: ice planet, heavily industrialized, site of Techno Union facility [NB: prototyping an advanced bomber-fighter], under CIS occupation
Bortele Cluster sector
- Ingo: rich in scatrium & fravisite (rare ores), mining facilities run by Tagge Mining Company; nearby shipyard owned by Fromm Gang
Halla sector
- Bimmisaari: homeworld of Bimms races, major trade hub on Ilosian Spur, site of major Refugee Relief Movement settlements
- Boz Pity: 'graveyard planet' (homeworld of extinct Gargantelle race), site of major Separatist base & staging point
Taldot sector
- Balamak: major agriworld and trade hub, site of Republic's primary regional Holonet relay node [NB: and CIS's prototype comm-jammer platform]
- Charros IV: homeworld of Xi Charrian race (cathedral-factories), headquarters of Haor Chall Engineering (starfighters, e.g., vulture droids), CIS 'Foundry'
- Togoria: homeworld of Togorian race (pastoral lions), resource-rich but unindustrialized, known for exporting sc'rath (custom-made electrified scimitars)
Mytaranor sector
- Chamble: major trade hub on Randon Run, headquarters of Bansche Tech (droids, e.g., assassin droids sold on the black market)
- Kashyyyk: homeworld of Wookie race, childhood home of Chewbacca, near Alaris Prime (colony world), headquarters of Claatuvac Guild (navigators)
- Messert: major financial hub in region, headquarters of Messert Mines Corporation and Kashyyyk Combine (bank for Wookie planets)
- Rakhuuun: Wookie colony world, site of Rakhuuun Shipyard (produces civilian starships, e.g., yachts and freighters)
- Trandosha: homeworld of Trandoshan race (slavers), site of Warlord's Palace, orbited by Wasskah ('hunting moon,' with Wookies as prey)
Terr'skiar sector
- Quas Killam: homeworld of Killam race, rich in trinium (weapon systems), factories & mining facilities run by Trade Federation, under CIS occupation
Trax sector
- Draenell's Point: heavily populated agriworld, headquarters of Draenell Industries and Thulpin Agriculture
- Essowyn: homeworld of Saurton race, cavern-cities, site of Thergum Pits, rich in iron alloys, mining facilities run by Messert Mines Corporation
- Genian: rocky planet known for secure bank vaults & research labs, headquarters of Fry Industries (security systems) owned by Talesan Fry (tech genius)
- Longwind: originally a Republic penal colony, now a major agriworld and primary textile producer in Mid Rim
- Nurstin: rocky planet rich in corthel and cortheum (droid photoreceptors), mining facilities run by Messert Mines Corporation
Kastolar sector
- Durkteel: homeworld of Saurin race, thriving & heavily populated agriworld, site of major Refugee Relief Movement settlements & many orbital stations
- Kween: site of Kwenn Space Station (massive drydock & supply depot with up to six docking ports sized for capital ships)
- Sneeve: homeworld of Sneeve race, heavily populated mountain planet, site of major Refugee Relief Movement settlements
- Ubrikkia: industrial planet controlled by the Hutts, headquarters of Ubrikkian Industries (civilian vehicles & droids) owned by Kuat Drive Yards
"...As you see, this region is far more interesting than most of the others in the Mid Rim, possibly due to proximity of Hutt Space, probably due to the number of Separatist-aligned industrial planets that are collectively known as the 'Foundry of the Confederacy'. As before, I've highlighted Bimmisaari, Durkteel, and Sneeve as major refugee worlds, along with Uyter as the home system of a major anti-Palpatine politician who's been a strong ally of our humanitarian work. I've also highlighted Genian due to your interest in Talesan Fry's latest device, and Kashyyyk due to our previous work with the Wookies and our current facility on Alaris Prime."
"Thank you, PR-1."
"Most welcome, Mistress. In addition to these, however, there are a number of... curiosities in this region. First, turn your attention to Va'art II, an unassuming jungle moon with the galaxy's sole natural predator against Force users. Taozin are giant bugs -- big, big bugs, bigger than most starships, reaching up to 20 meters in length -- with lightsaber-resistant armor and a natural ability to interfere with others' use of the Force."
"Oh. Oh my."
"Fortunately, while they are damnably hard to kill, they can apparently be harvested. There are records of 'taozin amulets' made out of the animals skin, that allows the wearer to interfere with Force abilities, including Force sight and battle precognition. If we're ramping up for a war against a Sith Lord--"
"Oh my. Between this and the ysalamiri on Myrkr... Mr. Palpatine's life is about to get interesting." Ciaran barely resisted the urge to cackle.
"As you say, Mistress. Finally, I also want to draw your attention to Abhean, a planet known for their supersized shipyards, capable of building single vessels larger than most capital ships. While they're currently a 'Foundry' world for the CIS, their best known product was a ship built several hundred years ago called the Chu'unthor."
"PR-1?"
"Yes, Lady Ciaran."
"Why did I just feel a chill go down my back?"
"...I'm afraid I can't answer, though it might have to do with the fact that the Chu'unthor was designed as a praxeum-ship, as a mobile Jedi Academy, with fully automated facilities, room for 10,000 students, requiring only a token crew to fly the thing around. Not to mention-- Lady Ciaran?"
"...Yes, PR-1?"
"You may want to... yes, there." PR-1 gestured. "You were salivating."
"Damn straight I was. But there was something else you were about to mention?"
"Well, I hadn't yet mentioned that the Chu'unthor provided quarters and teaching facilities for multiple universities and unaffiliated research teams interested in meeting Force-sensitive species and races across the galaxy. Nor had I mentioned that the Chu'unthor contained a near-comprehensive Jedi Library and Archive."
"Yup, that's it: I want one."
"Unfortunately--"
"Oh, no no no, don't tell me it was destroyed."
"I won't. I do regret to inform you that the Chu'unthor is unfortunately lost, and hasn't been seen in 200 years."
"...Can we make one of our own?"
"I'm afraid that won't be necessary." PR-1 lacked the hardware for facial expressions, but Ciaran could have sworn the droid was smirking.
"What do you mean?"
"Well, I told you that Chu'unthor hasn't been seen in 200 years, but I very carefully didn't mention that records indicate it crashed on a planet, or that shortly after its disappearance Master Yoda led a rather significant number of Jedi to that same planet and returned with the missing students."
"Tell me where."
"...It was last seen over Dathomir."
This time, Ciaran didn't bother resisting the urge to cackle.
Some time later: "Feeling better, Lady Ciaran?"
"You have no idea, PR-1. I trust...?"
"I've already made a dozen notes for the principals, and a dozen more reminders to send in an hour."
"You are a marvel."
"I try, Mistress."
"You succeed."
"Thank you, Lady Ciaran. Shall we proceed?"
"...There's another? Oh. Right then."
"The last area to cover extends through the Expansion Region due south of Neutral Space, and due east of the galactic Core."
Expansion Region
Prackla sector
- Cartao: homeworld of Cranscoc race, headquarters of Spaarti Creations (produce Spaarti cloning cylinders)
Locris sector
- Pirin: major trade hub on Perlemian Trade Route, headquarters of Kontag (starship security systems), regional office of Bounty Hunters' Guild
- Sermeria: major mining & agriworld on Perlemian Trade Route, current Senator is Ister Paddle (member of Loyalist Committee, opposes neutrality)
Hali sector
Nojic sector
- Valgauth: resource-rich but heavily polluted industrial world, headquarters of Trigdale Metallurgy (mineral/crystal mining & refining)
Dona Laza sector
Biivren sector
Annecy sector
Couronne sector
Axion sector
- Arkinnea: homeworld of Yuru race, site of 'Hidden Temple' (Jedi outpost), under CIS occupation
- Axion: Colicoid colony world, R&D facilities run by Colla Design (designed W-series droidekas, droid tri-fighters, buzz droids), CIS 'Foundry' world
Oeiros sector
Ghost Nebula sector
- Umbara: homeworld of Umbaran race, childhood home of Sly Moore (Palpatine aide), site of Sith Academy, produces Millicreep (assassin droids)
Noori sector
"...Nothing as thrilling as the last region, as you can see. I've highlighted Sermeria as a potential recruit for CNS, despite the attitude of its current senator; they're a close neighbor to Onderon, and every Separatist saber-rattling in the area makes them more uncertain of their position. Freeing Onderon and drawing it into the CNS would provide a decisive example that Neutral Space is for systems that truly seek peace. As a trade world, Cartao is less interesting, but as the corporate headquarters of Spaarti Creations, that produces the only cloning technology outside of Kamino, it's decidedly worth your attention. Further south, Axion is in a rather peculiar position, as a major CIS 'Foundry' world despite being surrounded by Republic space. Its neighbor Arkinnea is a quiet world suffering a rather brutal occupation to maintain Axion's control of the area. A victory at Onderon would destabilize the regime there, and undercut Axion's control of the local hyperlane access to the sector."
"Interesting. Nothing we can do for the moment, but it'll be worth keeping our eye on as the situation in Onderon progresses."
"Indeed, Lady Cia--"
Suddenly they heard the blaring sound of the Vault alarm. Ciaran's eyes widened, and her hand leapt to the comms. "Report."
Gulan sounded out of breath. "Thief in the Vault. Didn't get a good look, but I... nope, definitely a Changeling. She snuck through my legs to escape, but had to ditch her bag of goodies to make it out, and she was apparently tall enough to reach the Darksaber display."
"Got it. Report back if there's anything else." Ciaran pressed a different button. "All teams, this is Lady Ciaran. Intruder is a Changeling. Double-check all identities, work only in teams of two or more." The comm beeped at her. "Yes?"
"We got her, ma'am."
"Wait, really?"
"Yup, ran right into us. Looked like Gulan had a cousin, till we realized we only have one Bothan on site. Intruder down, no casualties due to Tyro, and Mr. Cata has taken custody. Also, uh... I think I'll let Mr. Cata explain this one, actually."
Ciaran sensed a headache in her future. "All right. Have Grandfather bring her up for an interview. Report back if any developments." Ciaran pressed the second button again. "All teams... intruder has been taken into custody. Remain on heightened alert until we confirm that she was working alone." Ciaran eased back in her lounging chair. "Looks like that will be all, PR-1. Can you go be a one-droid welcoming committee?"
"Yes, Lady Ciaran."
"And PR-1?"
"Yes, Lady Ciaran?"
"Good work today."
<><><><><><><>
A/N: Like last time, halfway a quarter of the way through when @Panory posted his omake, and I just had to tie things together. Also, holy shit this was longer than I expected it to be. Honestly, besides the Kashyyyk Region there isn't even many interesting systems to talk about. It's just... well, I wanted to give a slice of 'in the life of Lady Ciaran', and then it just kept going and going. And then PR-1 decided to be a character instead of just an authorial proxy for info-dumping, and then I had to give a good reason why there's virtually nothing on the northern Mid Rim in Star Wars canon or extended universe. <sighs heavily>
In more pleasing news, holy crap am I excited to find an in-character way for Ciaran to learn about the Chu'unthor praxeum ship on Dathomir. Turns out it was built in a Mid-Rim shipyard right next door! And if PR-1 really were consulting with the other advisors on what Ciaran would find interesting, there's no way he could possibly miss that one.
As for 'things I can't say in-character': I do want to point out that 'Mobus' in the Chiss Ascendancy isn't interesting just because it's a source of Corusca gems. No, that was just my excuse to get people to notice the fact that it's also the current location of the living planet Zonama Sekot, a colony world & kinda-enemy of the Yuuzhan Vong. If we do somehow survive long enough to face their invasion, Zonama Sekot would be a huge resource, and it'll be sitting in orbit around Mobus for the next 50 years or so.
Also in the 'things I can't say in-character' category: agrocite-infused fuel cells are my new head canon for Chewie's super-powered bowcaster in 'The Force Awakens'. Applying a compound designed to supercharge a turbolaser, to something the size of a blaster? It should be wickedly powerful.
Finally: I can't help but notice that holy sithspit there's a bunch of possible anti-Force weapons we could be developing. Ysalamiri tree packs, cortosis battle droids, Gurlanin agents, senflax neurotoxins, taozin amulets -- or we could just send Grievous to capture a live taozin and smuggle it into the Chancellor's office. And with Jango Fett (with his Cul'val Dar and ties to the clone commandos) and HK-47 (with his... everything-ness) on the docket for recruitment, we have a lot of potential delivery systems.
I have what could be the best/worst idea ever.
Hire HK-47.
Upgrade him with cortosis for armour/body.
Add senflax neurotoxin dispensers.
Fill remining cavities with taozin amulets.
Send to Palpatine.
Finding their way all over the galaxy, taozin were thought to be extinct until Darsha Assant, Lorn Pavan, and I-5YQ stumbled across one circa 32 BBY while fleeing from Darth Maul in the depths of the Coruscant underworld.
...
When the Galactic Empire came to power in 19 BBY, the members of the Inquisitorius were equipped with taozin amulets, which would mask their presence while on the hunt for rogue Jedi.
So yes, they were "thought to be extinct." But there was at least one randomly hanging around the Coruscant underworld, and the galaxy is an awfully big place, even for a 20-meter-tall bug, especially for a 20-meter-tall bug that leaves no survivors. And the fact that the Imperial-era 'Inquisitorius' were equipped with taozin amulets indicates that there's probably a supply of them somewhere, or that the skin nodules don't have an expiration date.
EDIT: also, @ConfusedPotato, maybe don't quote the entire mega-post? That can get frustrating, especially on other sites that don't auto-shrink larger block-quotes.
[x] Bring in support. You could use the opportunity to quietly spread the word about Order 66 and Palpatine to people you know will keep quiet about it, giving you useful allies in a worrying time. (Choose one or both)
-[x] Ferus Olin: He told you he would help you if you needed it after saving Darra and even though its been a few years since you last spoke with him now seems like the perfect time to cash in that favor. That, and he's a powerful Jedi on his own, making him an invaluable asset on the battlefield.
While there was no option for a write-in, I would like to point out a third option for support: Bounty Hunters. I feel kinda like an ass trying to be too clever by half bringing this up again but, remember that Sidious and Dooku were establishing feelers for an assassination target that was very well protected and etc etc etc? How hard would it be to hijack that preparation, highlight Ouroborous and Wesker as the targets and then sweep in alongside/behind to seize the facilities? Or if not, just hire top grade Bounty hunters to assist the various strike teams? Ah well, here's hoping we can at least break the news about Darra to Ferus without fucking things up between him and the Abyss Watchers as well.
If nothing else the Mid Rim sounds like a fertile ground for gaining legitimacy for a peace process, more worlds means more voices, plus it sounds fantastic for outfitting an anti-Palpatine strike force.
Hm, it's a shame none of our Agents have grown to at least Knight levels, any such force would benefit from combatants who could attack from a position of surprise.
Heh, I don't suppose anyone fancies re-enacting Ciaran's own assassination? Except with more Force suppressing neurotoxins and cortosis armed assassins.
Incidentally we may want to personally study wounds in the Force if we can find them, preferably smaller than Malachor V, if only to recreate what Kreia used to kill the Jedi Masters on Dantooine.
That particular technique is charmingly dangerous, it's entirely survivable but seemingly the only way to survive it is to abandon the Force as the Exile did. This would be especially effective against Sith, just imagine a Sith trying to give up their power, even to survive.
[X] Bring in support. You could use the opportunity to quietly spread the word about Order 66 and Palpatine to people you know will keep quiet about it, giving you useful allies in a worrying time. (Choose one or both)
-[X] Kal Skirata: Effectively one of the leaders of the Republic's commando divisions, you did promise him that you would tell him about the chips first thing. Contacting him would also likely get you some commandos or possibly even a Null ARC on your team.
With all the planets that could be taken in by the CNS, we could have dozens of turns just trying to get them to join. Turns that I doubt we have time for since Palpatine is definitely going to play his big card sooner, rather than later. At best, we might have around two more turns before everything gets much worse.
The real question, is what our most important goals will be for the next few planets. What are the most important planets and systems we should aim for in the next few turns just to increase our chances of surviving a pissed-off Sith Lord.
With all the planets that could be taken in by the CNS, we could have dozens of turns just trying to get them to join. Turns that I doubt we have time for since Palpatine is definitely going to play his big card sooner, rather than later. At best, we might have around two more turns before everything gets much worse.
The real question, is what our most important goals will be for the next few planets. What are the most important planets and systems we should aim for in the next few turns just to increase our chances of surviving a pissed-off Sith Lord.
maby get a proper ,military going, and making it so that the cns stay's the cns when the war is over. it's own separate nation next to the republic. if we can connect the two place's that the cns control we would have a pretty good hold on at least two different hyperplanes
Under normal circumstances they wouldn't be that freaked out, but when Darra came back with her testimony the Jedi were aware of the fact that the Sith Conspiracy was a thing and that there were people out there trying to take out the Jedi. And wouldn't you know it, there's this charismatic woman who has the adoration of the galaxy that conveniently has no real enemies, was known to have associated with the Separatists at the time of their founding, and was just implicated in working with the criminal underworld to a significant degree and then was accused of trying to take control of a powerbase that wouldn't be affected by the war due to its nautre...
It definitely raised alarm bells. Now the reason they don't like her is just the fact that the Council doesn't like Ciaran on a personal level.
While there was no option for a write-in, I would like to point out a third option for support: Bounty Hunters. I feel kinda like an ass trying to be too clever by half bringing this up again but, remember that Sidious and Dooku were establishing feelers for an assassination target that was very well protected and etc etc etc? How hard would it be to hijack that preparation, highlight Ouroborous and Wesker as the targets and then sweep in alongside/behind to seize the facilities? Or if not, just hire top grade Bounty hunters to assist the various strike teams? Ah well, here's hoping we can at least break the news about Darra to Ferus without fucking things up between him and the Abyss Watchers as well.
The only bounty hunter that I know of that I would be comfortable bringing along is Zam Wessel. I'd be interested in hearing if there are others that are active in this period and trustworthy.
I like the idea of sending Sidious and Dooku's assassins at Wesker. Seems like something that would need an intrigue action or two to achieve, however, and thus not something we can do for this operation.
[X] Bring in support. You could use the opportunity to quietly spread the word about Order 66 and Palpatine to people you know will keep quiet about it, giving you useful allies in a worrying time. (Choose one or both)
-[X] Ferus Olin: He told you he would help you if you needed it after saving Darra and even though its been a few years since you last spoke with him now seems like the perfect time to cash in that favor. That, and he's a powerful Jedi on his own, making him an invaluable asset on the battlefield.
-[X] Kal Skirata: Effectively one of the leaders of the Republic's commando divisions, you did promise him that you would tell him about the chips first thing. Contacting him would also likely get you some commandos or possibly even a Null ARC on your team.
-[X] Zam Wessel (write in)
First, upon discovering the existence of anti-Force neurotoxin, my first gut reaction is that we need to take a Lore or Learning action (or maybe even a joint Lore-Learning action where we need to spend one of each) to find a way to beat this stuff, because holy crap I don't want this used on us!
Second, unrelated to anything recent, we have access to gene mods that slow the aging process/lengthen lifespan. Gene modding resets aging to an extent. @Dr. Snark, given these facts, could we work on a treatment specifically to both slow aging and reset the subject to around 20 or so (or species equivalent)? Or even just reset physical age? Seems to me that might be a pretty useful thing to have.
With all the planets that could be taken in by the CNS, we could have dozens of turns just trying to get them to join. Turns that I doubt we have time for since Palpatine is definitely going to play his big card sooner, rather than later. At best, we might have around two more turns before everything gets much worse.
...Source? No, seriously, once this mini-arc's over we'll be moving to Turn 24, which is the first quarter of BBY 20. In canon, Palpatine didn't play his Order 66 card until BBY 19 -- waiting until he had consolidated a lot more power in his own hands, waiting until militaristic fervor had fully engulfed the Republic so he'd have an excuse to declare it an Empire, waiting until wartime attrition that reduced the Jedi Order to a much smaller population, waiting until the GAR counter-offensive was on the verge on recapturing most of the Separatist fortress worlds, waiting until Anakin Skywalker was ready and 'ripe' to be plucked as his next apprentice.
None of those things are true here. Thanks to our humanitarian efforts, public neutrality, and recent peace treaty, the anti-war faction has a much stronger hand to be playing against Palpatine's militarism. Thanks for our early conference with the Jedi, they decided that maybe they weren't the best suited to serve as generals, which means the Jedi attrition is far less than in canon and the Kamino clones aren't nearly as well positions for a single devastating strike that Order 66 was in canon. Thanks to our neutrality and funding for both sides, the Separatists still hold the upper hand in the war, and while we've stalled their advance with the treaty and at Onderon, the GAR isn't nearly ready to counter-strike, and finally, while Anakin may be closer than ever to accepting his need for & reliance on attachments, we've done a pretty decent job of presenting ourselves as the go-to source for how to deal with emotions without becoming a Sith.
Basically, Palpatine won't give the command for Order 66 unless he feels confident of victory or feels he has no other choice. He isn't anywhere near victory yet, and we've been very clear to not go public about the inhibitor chips so I doubt he'd feel a sense of urgency.
EDIT: ...I'm sure Palpatine will start moving against us more directly in a few turns, but we've survived assassination attempts before (and we're even more prepared for it now that we're at the heart of Neutral Space, and with our wiretaps on Coruscant and on Dooku), and we've whitewashed the blackmail material so thoroughly he'll give himself a black eye if he tries to use it. Palpatine is frightening, but he's still bound by some constraints of office, and we're pretty well situated to deal with anything short of 'Palpatine arrives in all his Sith glory and cuts a swathe of destruction through our base in an attempt to kill us." From where I'm sitting, Palpatine's 'big card' right now is Order 66 -- everything short of that is, not easy, but at least manageable.
The real question, is what our most important goals will be for the next few planets. What are the most important planets and systems we should aim for in the next few turns just to increase our chances of surviving a pissed-off Sith Lord.
True, though we do have that Integration Bureau to help auto-recruit a number of systems that would be inclined to join us anyway. My personal list for 'most important systems to recruit' would be:
Obredaan: for the cortosis. It's a Republic world, but one with past ties to the Trade Federation and an apparent dislike for the Jedi.
Qiilura: for the Gurlanin agents. Thanks to Kal Skirata and his Omega Squad, we even have an 'in' for reaching out to them
Cadannia: for the senflax. An anti-Force neurotoxin would just be too useful, especially given the number of non-Force agents we might be able to deploy (Grievous, The Silencer, HK-47, Jango Fett and friends, etc.)
OTOH, there are plenty of other worlds (like Ithor, or like Carosi) that would be force-multipliers for Neutral economic recovery & development. All of the ones above are short-term priorities, but it may be worth making a long-term investment (for something like Ansion) to gain a strategic political advantage, even if there's nothing immediately or obviously useful about the planet itself.
EDIT: forgot to mention the priority systems from the Outer Rim.
Scipio: for the money. Seriously, those IGBC vaults are massive, and I don't want Palpatine getting his hands on them.
Bal'demnic: alternate site for cortosis, with past ties to IGBC and Damask Holdings (also, apparently Darth Tenebrous's force-ghost is trapped in a cave nearby, which would be good for a laugh or two).
Murkhana: for the Shadowfeed. Communications infrastructure to the entire Outer Rim (plus key parts of the Mid Rim) could be key to making the CNS self-sustaining.
Af'El: for the meleenium. If you want to build anything with durasteel, you have to go through us and pay through the nose. Sounds right up our alley, frankly.
First, upon discovering the existence of anti-Force neurotoxin, my first gut reaction is that we need to take a Lore or Learning action (or maybe even a joint Lore-Learning action where we need to spend one of each) to find a way to beat this stuff, because holy crap I don't want this used on us!
"I spent the last few years building up an immunity to Iocane powder."
...Personally I'd be more inclined to study & weaponize it first, then try to build up an immunity. I don't think senflax is widely known, or that there's much if any off-world supply. Especially if we lay claim to Cadannia, we should be fine for the short term at least.
...Personally I'd be more inclined to study & weaponize it first, then try to build up an immunity. I don't think senflax is widely known, or that there's much if any off-world supply. Especially if we lay claim to Cadannia, we should be fine for the short term at least.
I honestly feel the opposite. If there is going to be any weaponization of this stuff, I really want to be immune first. I do agree that we should claim Cadannia, though.
Hey @Dr. Snark if you want to (sorta) rebalance the omake glut we currently have you can just add the +20 to any rolls we may need to do in the Wesker mini arc.
Well at least there's some things worth talking about in the Mid Rim. Won't be canon until the start of the next turn for Reasons, but still have the +10 for the effort.
Second, unrelated to anything recent, we have access to gene mods that slow the aging process/lengthen lifespan. Gene modding resets aging to an extent. @Dr. Snark, given these facts, could we work on a treatment specifically to both slow aging and reset the subject to around 20 or so (or species equivalent)? Or even just reset physical age? Seems to me that might be a pretty useful thing to have.
The Pau'an mods are the closest you're going to be able to get to that (the Arkanians have tried the full age reset/extended lifespan thing before on themselves and it's never really panned out).
Edit: Also, I should point out that currently the vote for only calling in Kal is winning by a landslide (poor Olin, I tried to let him be important again but t) but there's still a healthy competition between the operation names of Snake Eater vs. Rod of Asclepius.
Well at least there's some things worth talking about in the Mid Rim. Won't be canon until the start of the next turn for Reasons, but still have the +10 for the effort.
The Pau'an mods are the closest you're going to be able to get to that (the Arkanians have tried the full age reset/extended lifespan thing before on themselves and it's never really panned out).
how about something to expand the age limit, or use stem cells to regrow hands for any one that met a angry jedi?
(we run a medical company i want it to be a unique one)
how about something to expand the age limit, or use stem cells to regrow hands for any one that met a angry jedi?
(we run a medical company i want it to be a unique one)
And with Jango Fett (with his Cul'val Dar and ties to the clone commandos) and HK-47 (with his... everything-ness) on the docket for recruitment, we have a lot of potential delivery systems.
