May The Invisible Hand Be With You - (Star Wars CK2-Style Quest)

[Dr. Snark]

A Long, Long Time Ago, In A Galaxy Far, Far Away...​

It is a time of great strife in the galaxy. The Republic is fighting a desperate battle against the Confederacy of Independent Systems all while the Sith manipulate both sides from behind the scenes in an attempt to destroy the Jedi once and for all. Against all odds, the Jedi-

"How long are you going to drone on for? I have better things I could be doing than listening to this."

Wha-who are you!? And how dare you interrupt-

"No one cares. Now, why don't we try this again but my way instead."

"Right now, the galaxy is in the middle of a war between the Republic and Separatists over independence and lower taxes and Sith conspiracies. The usual reasons. I have been generously providing the galaxy with humanitarian aid but I'm certain that people still want to kill me in spite of these charitable efforts. Honestly! I may be making a profit off of it but attempts on my life are hardly an appropriate response. Anyway, there have been strange plagues in the Outer Rim, terrorists on Mandalore, and my burn scars won't stop hurting for some reason."

"You'd think this is too much for one person to handle, right? Well, that's where having a personal shadow organization comes in handy. Together the Abyss Watchers and I will bring peace back to the galaxy and massive influxes to our bank accounts."

"Right then. Refresher's over, we have a lot of work to do."

May The Invisible Hand Be With You - A Star Wars CKII-Style Quest

Hello there! This thread is a continuation of I've Always Wanted To Own The Galaxy (TvTropes Page) created by @Teron and continued by me with his blessing, so if you're just joining us, go read through that first or this handy recap and then come back here when you're done. Spoilers: it involves absurd dice rolls, planet stealing, and trolling the galaxy. We're going to keep this crazy train rolling for as long as we can!

A few things before we get started in earnest.

1. Keep it civil blah blah blah y'all have heard it before. Our PC is someone who trolls everyone and has stolen planets; don't take this too seriously.
2. If you think I fucked something up, let me know. The last thing I want is take away from your enjoyment. Also if you have ideas feel free to suggest them.
3. Omakes are always appreciated and can be considered canon if they're good/funny enough. You'll get a +10 bonus to a roll of your choice (with a limit of two bonuses per roll) and canon omakes might end up influencing the story.
4. The Dice giveth, and the Dice taketh away. Respect the Almighty Dice Gods and hopefully they will bestow their favor unto you mortals.

And...I think that's about it! So let's kick things off, shall we?

 

[Publicola]

'The Vault' << 'Canon Non-Story' Omakes >> 'Currently Non-Canon' Omakes >> 'Non-Canon' Omakes >> 'The Mandalorian Connections' (Story Start)​

Omakes are listed in the order they were published
Special thanks to @Jakobstj for keeping this updated since February 2017!

Index of Canon Non-Story Omakes​

Abyss Watchers Troop Composition by Teron

Info Post: details of equipment and employee benefits of Abyss Watchers forces​

Meanwhile, Elsewhere In The Galaxy by Teron

Recent Past (Turn 20): scenes from Abyss Watcher facilities on Coruscant and Dantooine​

Leave Your Sanity At The Edge by Killerflood

Recent Past (Turn 20): conversation between Thrawn and an unnamed Seeker​

Messages From The Abyss Watchers by Teron

Recent Past (Turn 21): emails from Lady Ciaran's overflowing inbox​

Ciaran's Relatives by Teron

Info Post: details of Lady Ciaran's extended family, including parents and cousins​

The Weakest Link by Panory

Distant Past (pre-Turn 9): backstory for Tryo Torwin, former Blazing Chain pirate and Ciaran's Lore advisor​

Excerpts from Mitth'raw'nuruodo's Assessment of Grievous by Stealthy

Info Post: observations on Kaleesh culture, Grievous's personality, and possible methods of defeating him​

Duel by Echo 101

Recent Past (Turn 21): Asajj forces Lady Ciaran to train her lightsaber skills after Force premonition​

For Old Times' Sake by BurnNote

Recent Past: Lady Ciaran reminisces with Padme about her origins as a cantina owner and bartender​

A Totally In-Character Meeting by Panory

Recent Past (Turn 23): Abyss advisors and heroes decides to stage an intervention due to Lady Ciaran's overconfidence in their abilities​

Snips Plays Games Unfairly by BurnNote

Recent Past (Turn 23): scenes of Ahsoka Tano playing strategy games with Thrawn, Anakin, and an unnamed Jedi Master​

Total War by Panory

Recent Past: Thrawn's patrol fleet escorts Sev'rance Tann on CIS supply mission to planet Null​

Chain Of Command by Panory

Recent Past (Turn 22): Tyro Torwin teaches Asajj why she shouldn't underestimate a Blazing Chain pirate​

Less Hookers And Blow Than Expected by Panory

Recent Past (Turn 23): Lady Ciaran's cousins Larana Shayal and Galvin Thorn visit her newly opened nightclub on Nar Shaddaa​

Eyes Of The Abyss: Achievements by Whumbly

Info Post: details of Lady Ciaran's 'achievements' since starting this quest [NB: inspired "The Vault" and Achievements post]​

Origins, Part II by Killerflood

Distant Past (Turn 1): backstory for Lady Ciaran's takeover of the Abyss Watchers gang [NB: sequel to Origins omake]​

Materials Analysis for Cortosis and Derivative Alloys by Publicola

Info Post: classified Abyss Watcher report on properties and potential uses of pure and alloyed cortosis [NB: original content by random_npc]​

Padawans by Panory

Recent Past: Ahsoka Tano visits Coruscant base and encounters an unfamiliar padawan of a 'Master Tyro' [NB: Kaleesh recruit from 'First Link']​

Miscommunication by Panory

Recent Past: Obi-Wan learns of Ciaran's connections to a 'Master Tyro' who is familiar with Blazing Chain [NB: sequel to Padawans omake]​

Date Night by Panory

Recent Past: Galvin Thorn forced to bring changeling cousin Oki along on his date with Cheriss​

Unrequested Aid by Panory

Recent Past (Turn 22): during an assault on a fake 'Black Sun' gang, Grievous encounters two Jedi Sentinels...​

Overview of Anomalous Materials and Their Properties by Publicola

Info Post: classified Abyss Watchers report on a variety of 'anomalous materials' and their effects [NB: prequel to 'Materials Analysis of Cortosis']​

The Diplomatic Adventures of Obi-Wan Kenobi by Panory

Recent Past (Turn 25): Ciaran learns about 'sentient ocean' that isn't, and has an idea for a prank [NB: sequel to 'Briefing the Boss Pt. 5']​

Repercussions of Failure by Andres110

Recent Past (Turn 24): Sev'rance'tann returns from her failure on Onderon, to Dooku's displeasure.​

The Continuing Diplomatic Adventures of Obi-Wan Kenobi by Panory

Recent Past (Turn 25): Ciaran learns about a Jedi-worshipping cult, and arranges to send Obi-Wan on a visit.​

Roses Are Red, Try Not To Push Her by Panory

Recent Past (Turn 25): HK-47 educates Ahsoka Tano about the history of Darth Revan the Butcher [NB: sequel to 'Briefing the Boss Pt. 5']​

Gambled Too High, Pt. 1 by Killerflood

Recent Past (Turn 25): Abyss Agent visits her old cousin's casino on Zeltros, only for their reunion to be interrupted...​

Gambled Too High, Pt. 2 by Killerflood

Recent Past: Abyss Agent deals with the interruption [NB: sequel to 'Gambled Too High Pt. 1']​

Gambled Too High, Pt. 3 by Killerflood

Recent Past: Abyss Agent impresses a passer-by, and receives an invitation... [NB: sequel to 'Gambled Too High Pt. 2']​

The Insane Bastard Who Invented Space Curling by Panory

Recent Past: Anakin Skywalker gets bored and decides to use kinetic weapons against a CIS space station...​

The True Origin of Space Curling by Barondoctor

Distant Past: Hapan pirates decide to use asteroids to knock freighter ships out of hyperspace...​

Droid Training Exercise, by Teron

Recent Past (Turn 26): HK-47 trains with droids​

Girls Night Out Summary, by Teron

Recent Past: The results of Ciaran and friends going out on the town​

Abyss Watchers Psych Eval: Ciaran, by Battleship_Fusou

Recent Past: Notes on Ciaran by the Abyss Watchers' psychologist​

Voices Across the Galaxy, by Teron

Recent Past: A look at the effect Ciaran has had on the world​

Abyss Watchers Psych Eval: Thrawn, by Battleship_Fusou

Recent Past: Notes on Mitth'raw'nuruodo by the Abyss Watchers' psychologist​

Is This Just Fantasy?, by Killerflood

Recent Past: Silas has a nightmare​

More Messages from Ciaran, by Teron

Recent Past: Recorded messages to members of the Abyss Watchers​

Even More Ciaran Messages, by Whumbly

Recent Past: Additional messages to members of the Abyss Watchers​

The Responsible Parties, by Panory

Recent Past: Warnings to members of the Abyss Watchers​

Origins Part III, by Killerflood

Distant Past (Turn 1): Ciaran finishes her takeover of the Abyss Watchers [NB: sequel to Origins and Origins Part II omakes]​

Elegant Engineering, by Panory

Recent Past: HK-47 builds a lightsaber bayonet​

Advisor Quotes, by Whumbly

Recent Past: Various quotes and thoughts of our Advisors​

Full Metal Chain, by Panory

Recent Past: Tyro gets a slugthrower​

A Captain, Commander, and ARC Walk Into A Bar, by Prevalent117

Recent Past: Rex, Cody, and Fives have a drink​

Abyss Watchers Psych Eval: Grievous, by Battleship_Fusou

Recent Past: Notes on Grievous by the Abyss Watchers' psychologist​

What's For Dinner?, by Panory

Recent Past (Turn 27): Dooku worries over his dinner with Ciaran​

RESPONSE POSTS TO The First Quasi-Annual Invisible Hand Q&A Session!, by barenhart

Info Post: Exactly what it says in the title​

Whatever Happened to the Parsas?, by barenhart

Recent Past : Jasper and Eevy Parsa eat dinner​

Wesker vs. the Firekeeper, by Killerflood

Fanart : Wesker and Ciaran​

Overachiever, by Noitaerc

Recent Past ( Turn 27) : Notes from Cheriss on the Droideka Mk-II​

Surveillance Reports, by Teron

Recent Past ( Turn 27) : Gulans' notes on various people of interest​

Abyss Watchers Organisation Composition, by Teron

Info Post : Information on the various branches of the Abyss Watchers​

I'm Still Relevant, by Teron

Recent Past ( Turn 27) : Xruk is looting the Tusken to become relevant again​

Fate Comparision: Quest - OTL (Now and Near Future), by Teron

Info Post : Comparison of several peoples current state in Canon and in the Quest​

Tales of Naboo, by Teron

Recent Past : Short stories about OOM-9, Borvo, and Sabé​

Hutt Space Politics, by Teron

Info Post : Information about recent changes among the Hutts since the destruction of the Black Sun​

Mandalore - Situation, by Teron

Info Post : Breakdown of the three major factions in Mandalorian politics​

Ciaran Relatives - Updated, by Teron

Info Post : List of all known relatives of Ciaran​

Awkward Conversations, by Teron

Recent Past ( Turn 27) : Some very awkward conservations​

From the Supreme Chancellor's Office, by Dovahsith

Recent Past ( Turn 27) : Darth Sidious ponders his schemes​

From the Count's Palace, by Teron

Recent Past ( Turn 27) : Darth Tyrannus contemplates his mistakes​

From the Lady's Retreat, by Teron

Recent Past ( Turn 27) : Darth Traya takes a break​

From the Grand Admiral's Office, by Teron

Recent Past ( Turn 27) : Mitth'raw'nuruodo considers his situation​

From the Warlord's Hunt, by Teron

Recent Past ( Turn 27) : Grievous contemplates his people's savior​

From the Master's Chamber, by Teron

Recent Past ( Turn 27) : Obi-Wan meditates on Ciaran​

From the Hutt's Palace, by Teron

Recent Past ( Turn 27) : Borvo eats dinner​

From the Senator's Office, by Teron

Recent Past ( Turn 27) : Padme ponders her life​

From the Mand'alor's Fortress, by Teron

Recent Past ( Turn 27) : Jango thinks about his people​

From the Duchess's Office, by Teron

Recent Past ( Turn 27) : Satine contemplates Ciaran and the CNS​

From the Grand Master's Chambers, by Teron

Recent Past ( Turn 27) : Yoda reflects on the failings of the Jedi​

Small Manipulations, by Teron

Recent Past : Ciaran pulls some strings​

The Grand Fleet, by Teron

Recent Past ( Turn 27) : A pilot is lectured on the workings of the Grand Fleet​

Droids in the Abyss Watchers, by Teron

Info Post : Information on the many droids the Abyss Watchers use​

Excentric Droids, by Teron

Recent Past : Choice quotes from some of the droids employed by the Abyss Watchers​

Rip's Scientist Candidates, by Barondoctor

Info Post : List of known skilled biologists that may be useful​

Abyss Watchers Organization Function, by Teron

Info Post : Further explanation of the functions of different parts of the Abyss Watchers.​

Training Days, by Teron

Recent Past : Ciaran visits the Coruscant sports teams she sponsors​

The Tailor, by Teron

Recent Past : Ciaran meets an intimidating tailor​

The Chosen One... doubts, by Teron

Recent Past ( Turn 27) : Anakin begins to question his path​

Typical day with the Cousins, by Teron

Recent Past : The many grandchildren of Silas Cata play around​

Experimental Equipment - Report No. 2, by Teron

Recent Past : More experiments from the Weapons Engineer.​

Cultured, by Panory

Recent Past : HK-47 lectures Thrawn on the culture of the Tusken​

Xruk meets a Jedi, by Habstab

Recent Past : Xruk is stopped by a Jedi while attacking the Tusken​

Abyss Watcher Accounting Book, by Stealthy

Info Post: Professional, regularly updated balance sheets for all Abyss Watch income and expenses​

Riphath's Guide to Telepathic Species, by Barondoctor

Info Post: List of known species with telepathic abilities.​

Starfighter Simulator Training Quotes, by Teron

Recent Past : The Abyss Watchers learn how to pilot ships.​

OOM-9 Training Log: Tactical Training with Thrawn, by Teron

Recent Past: OOM-9 figures out the only way to beat Thrawn.​

Abyss Watcher Droids, by Alyuna

Fanart: ED-6310 RD is a proud droid...​

The Kik'than Ant (or Piebald's Hobby), by prince84

Recent Past: Abysswalker Piebalds thoughts on the dangerous Kik'than Ant.​

Required Position, by prince84

Recent Past: A look at the person in charge of stopping the most insane research projects in the Abyss Watchers.​

Better Than Par, by Barondoctor

Recent Past: PR-1 decides to delegate some of his workload​

My Name is … Priam, by ALanos

Recent Past: Priam reflects on himself and his new body.​

Abyss Watchers: I'm The Boss, by Whumbly

Recent Past: Ciaran and her inner council sing a song.​

​

Ciaran and the CNS, by Teron
Info Post: Summary of the somewhat fragile alliance that is the Council of Neutral Systems

At the Core of the Web, by Walkin' Man
Recent Past: Ciaran handles a traitor in the ranks

The Galactic Peace Thing Was Always Just a Bonus, by Panory
Recent Past: Ciaran discusses the nature of war with Obi-Wan

The Galaxy Ends With You, by Barondoctor
Recent Past: Riphath and Darra explore a ruined temple on Tython



* This Index is fully updated as of post #23761 (Page 951)

 

[Teron]

Abyss Watchers troop compostion:

Guardians:
Armor: Custom combat armor based on Phase I Clone Trooper armor. Majority of mobility restrictions removed compared to original. Camopatterns added.
Weaponry: Varies depending on person.
Variant 1: Blaster rifles, grenades, vibro-dagger/stun baton.
Variant 2: Deck Sweeper, grenades, vibro dagger/stun baton.
Variant 3: Blaster pistol, portable durasteel shield, stun baton/force pike.
Variant 4: Heavy weapons (missiles, blaster cannons, etc.), grenades, vibrodagger/stun baton.
Equipment: Medpac, encrypted comlink (integrated into helmet), synthrope, rations, blast charges, etc.

Usage: Guardian teams are sent into the field when heavy firepower is required and a lack of subtlety is acceptable. Usualy recruited from rivaling mercenary organisations, gangs, former soldiers and in increasing frequency from normal citizens.

Seeker:
Armor: Shadowsuit overlaid with limited armor.
Weaponry:
Variant 1: Blaster pistol, stun baton/vibro-dagger, shock gauntlets, grenades.
Variant 2: Long-range blaster or disruptor rifle, stun baton/vibro-dagger, shock gauntlets, grenades.
Equipment: Medpac, encrypted comlink (integrated into helmet), synthrope, rations, blast charges, com-scrambler, slicer equipment, datapad, etc.

Usage: Seeker teams are responsible for infiltration, espionage, sabotage and assassination missions for which they are equiped to not be encountered in the first place. Usually recruited from mercenaries or bounty hunters.

Watchers:
Armor: Very limited to none.
Weaponry: Very limited to none.
Equipment: Very limited to none.

Usage: Normal citizens hired with a regular paycheck to keep eyes and ears open for anything of interest and if required be available to help out any other member of the Abyss Watchers. You won't believe how much having even the lowliest janitor, bureaucrat or secretary on ones payroll can help in the right circumstances.

Abyss Agent:
Armor: Reinforced coat, light combat armor
Weaponry: Blaster pistol, vibroblade or vibrodagger, grenades, (rarely) lightsaber
Equipment: Medpac, synthrope, encrypted comlink (portable or headset), com-scrambler, slicer equipment, datapad, etc.

Usage: Force Users of the Abyss Watchers. Personaly trained by Tyro Torvin with occasional assitance of Ciaran. Tend to have more of a mindset along the lines of special agents/commandos/mercenaries than regular Force Users due to Tyro Torvins past as pirate and Lady Ciarans attempts to curb any darkside tendencies. Also very well paid. Usually recruited from amongst the rest of the organisation if force sensitivity is discovered.

Kaleesh Warriors:
Armor: Custom combat armor or none at all
Weaponry: Pistols and Rifles (Blaster or Slugthrower), Daggers, Swords, Staffs (Bladed or Vibro)
Equipment: Medpac, encrypted comlink, synthrope, rations, blast charges, etc.

Usage: Kaleeshi warriors who have volunteered to serve under Grievous personaly and by extension the Abyss Watchers. Tend to be able to handle both the duties of the Seekers and Guardians both, which makes them quite versatile.

Wookiee Warriors
Armor: Usually none. Occasional custom combat armor.
Weaponry: Bowcasters or Ryyk Blades
Equipment: Medpac, encrypted comlink, synthrope, rations, blast charges, etc.

Usage: Wookiee Warriors. They are going to shoot, cut or bludgeon the enemy to death. Or rip their arms out of their sockets. Thats it.

Benefits of the employees:
Generous pay
Free healthcare
Free transportation
Free vacation
Generous pension
Compensation for accidents during work/missions
Compensation for lingering health issues developed during work/missions
Compensation for relatives in case of death
Generous holiday allowance
Quick retrieval from imprisonment in case of arrest
Retrieval of corpse in case of death
High quality legal assistance

(I had this partly floating around in the back of my mind since the old thread and especially after in one of the omakes reading one of the Abyss Watchers members mentioning that they earn more money than most bounty hunters.)

 

[Teron]

Unknown 'Abyss Watchers' owned Location, Recruitment Office, Unknown Time

"I hope this wasn't a mistake. Remember what happend to our last employer a few years back?" For this rag-tag bunch of a dozen misfits it has indeed been several years since the base of their employer was invaded and destroyed, forcing them to flee and get by through taking on odd-jobs for a long time. 'Fortunately' for them they caught the attention of the Abyss Watcher's criminal arm which was heavily rumored to be surprisingly benevolent and generous. A perfect group to work for if you were a less than honest person.

"Don't worry Herrin. I have only heard the best about them and I know a few of them... I mean, what is the worst that could happen? That we run into that red freak again while working for them?" Of course, as luck would have it the moment Herrins Twi-Lek girlfriend uttered that sentence, Xruk ended up being the one entering the office and just proceeded to silently glare at them.

A few silent moments later:

"Uh, sir?" Before Herrin could even say anything else than that Xruk held up his hand and silently nodded. "Hired. All of you. My colleague has personaly vouched for your competence with all that it entails. You will get to skip the recruit phase, receive training from me personaly and start off with higher paygrade. I will see you on the training course in half a hour. Your guide waits outside. Now, leave!" That said the sadistic Gand shooed the bunch of mercenaries out with surprising ethusiasm... only for Herrins personal horror to be waiting outside as their guide. The 'psycho-bastard' who just a few years ago nearly blew him and everyone else in the group up with a rocket launcher.

The Silencer.

"Oh no..."

Dantooine, Abyss Watchers owned Resort, during Operation Skyfall

For two surveilance experts the last few days couldn't have been better after they relayed some VERY important information to Ciaran herself. They have abruptly been recalled from their post in Wild Space, been given a generous bonus and paid vacation with a free stay at the Dantooine Resort... where they are currently resting at one of the areas many only slightly crowded pools.

"So... did this really happen? Just because of dumb luck?", "Hey, luck is important. It was allready luck for us that we did sign up with such generous bosses.", "True. Man, luxury like this would've been unimaginable about a year back.", "You tell me. Nice rooms, great food and drinks, entertainment, pools and... some nice view. I'll be back in a bit..."

What at least one of them certainly did NOT expect was that trying to hit on one of the female visitors would backfire badly. Backfire as in being slapped by Sabé. Who just so happened to be on vacation right now. A free one of course, because Ciaran loves to send her friends gifts, discounts and favors just because she can.

Coruscant, Karada-Corporation Research Facility, Unknown Time

The sound of an explosion is todays summary of Var Zheens newest experiment. A summary that of course needs to be taken care off by the more 'compentent' people around... or at least the ones less likely to blow things up.

"So... how often has this happened this month? Been on the Oracle to help Tyro so I couldn't keep up with counting." Cheriss Sair as usually sounds way too cheerfull considering that she is right about now helping a certain B1 droid drag an unconcious Giving out of his smoke filled lab. "Third time. I had to start refusing to make him coffee and ensure he wouldn't smuggle anything into the lab with which he could keep himself awake. Too ethusiastic, too much voluntary overtime."
Of course at the mention of 'overtime' Cheriss raises a brow, which is actually weird considering what she is... but at least it means she did learn organic behaviour very well. "Overtime? Voluntary overtime? We don't have overtime. Unless you are deployed to somewhere, but that is something else."

"He locks himself into his lab and works... without sleep. I usually need at least half a day to slice my way in. Once even literaly when he destroyed the door lock. So, yes. Overtime."

"Ohhhhh..."

 

[Killerflood]

The Oracle,
Wild Space Near the Mandalore System
(Just before operation Skyfall)

For a ship this large you would think there would be more than just a few rec-rooms. An errant thought flies into my head and I'm greeted with the image of the Boss and her "grand council" having taken over most of them and converting them into saunas or something. I snort before the logical part of my brains overrules it and reminds me that this ship used to be for controlling, storing, and transporting droids. After all, droids don't need rec-rooms. Now as for the Boss needing a sauna ... there are still a few levels of this ship I haven't explored. Maybe later I'll go exploring. Being a highly ranked Seeker has its perks.

I enter into the nearest rec-room and am pleasantly surprised to see it nearly empty. With the war going, most Seekers are off lurking and the Guardians are spread out protecting our assets. As for the droids ... well, see above. Walking through, I see only three beings. There are two of Tyro's apprentices. One's laughing his ass off as the other drunkenly tries and fails to levitate her shot glass onto the top of her head. The male sees me and nods.

"Hey Cünuel."

This is apparently enough to break the female's concentration as the shot glass drops to the table with a thud. Oh, you thought it was actual glass? No, it was realized that would be too expensive with all the replacements. The male's laughs start barking out again. I chuckle and wave. I then gaze at the third being in the room.

Well I'll be damned.

Sitting alone at one of the Dejarik tables, the third being is a blue skinned Chiss concentrating his red eyes hard at one of the monsters. It appears to be a Rancor that seems to be pinned by a couple of the beasts. I never completely understood the logic to Dejarik's rules. A real Rancor would be able to make mincemeat of all three of those Nexu. Instead it will only be able to take out two at most before falling. I walk up and look on as Thrawn inputs in his moves. I watch as before my eyes what looks like a losing battle on Thrawn's side is turned completely around. Within two moves he's taken care of the table AI's own monsters using the Rancor as bait to lure out its defense and then uses the next three turns to leisurely hunt down the remnant AI creatures. As Thrawn mops up I'm left with a lopsided grin and shaking my head.

"Masterful."

"I would be disappointed if it were not."

Thrawn resets the table and leans back into his chair. He directs his gaze towards me and asks, "Do you have a message for me, Seeker?"

I shake my head and sit down opposite of him.

"No, I'm here to relax before my next mission. Do you mind playing a game with me? The Scimitar is still being outfitted and I think I saw the Boss heading back towards the bridge with Tyro so whatever operation is being prepared is likely still a couple hours away."

One of Thrawn's eyebrows rises slightly. He straightens up but doesn't lean in to start the game.

"I'm afraid I am not one to gamble."

I smirk, "Even if it's a sure win?"

"Then it would not be gambling."

"Then you should still be willing to wipe the floor with me."

A moment passes before Thrawn nods his head and then pushes a few buttons on the table. Considering who this is I count that as a major victory. As the table loads up the new scenario - Clone and droid forces huh? How topical. - Thrawn asks me a question.

"So, Seeker, what will you be giving to me?"

I laugh.

Cheeky. For someone so serious to have such a dry sense of humor makes too much sense.

"Sorry to say but I'm not giving anything. I only make bets when I'm confident to win, not on a certain defeat. There's being crazy and then there's being insane and I'd rather not be the rare Watcher who crosses the line."

I notice Thrawn's mouth twitch down for a split-second and his eyes seem to unfocus from the table.

I must have hit a nerve somehow.

The game's first few turns pass with me growing more suspicious. Thrawn's gaze remains unfocused throughout. I didn't take him to be someone who ever lost focus for a long time. In fact ...

I move up a monster unit (spider droid in this instance) and allow for a small hole in my offense to appear. Now in this case it's an obvious trap and even if he went for it wouldn't be all that harmful. But ... it's a trap all the same. To my curiosity, his turn comes and he takes it. My eyes have been on his the entire time. They haven't moved at all. My eyebrows furrow.

"What's eating you Admiral?"

Thrawn's eyes gain their laser-like intensity back as they home in on me.

"What makes you think there is something affecting me?"

"I don't see you as someone to so easily fall for a trap."

As I say this, I move some of my beasts and a few nuisances forward to surround the two beasts he's placed in the hole. One goes down.

Crud, and here I thought I would have enough movement to be able take both of them. Oh well, one is one is one.

I look back up to see Thrawn still staring at me. His eyes are still sharp but they've already begun to dull.

"Who says it wasn't intentional?"

My eyes widen slightly as Thrawn's turn sees a nuisance I hadn't noticed come in from the back. It creates a mutual kill with one of mine but it's enough to make a hole. A hole now wide open. He moves his forces and in one fell swoop I've lost two more nuisances and the monster I moved to begin with. I can already tell that from here on out it's going to be a slow slide to defeat. I sigh and lean back. I notice that Thrawn's eyes have completely lost their intensity and his facial muscles have relaxed again.

"Why the long face admiral?"

"Hm? What do you mean?"

Thrawn doesn't look at me but I see his face tighten just the slightest bit. He might be looking at the table now but I can still see the glaze in his eyes.

"I might not know you all too well seeing as you're fairly new but you've already got a profile set up amongst the rank-and-file. Everyone on the grand council does. You're seen as the scalpel to the Silencer's mallet and the stoicism to Gulan's festivity."

Thrawn's focus is entirely on me. It's actually managing to make me slightly uncomfortable. His eyebrow rises again.

"To get to the point, you've been out in lala-land for the entire game. For me, that's doesn't fit your normal image."

A couple of moments pass by in silence. Thrawn's gaze is now going through me instead of being centered on me. He doesn't bother to make a move.

If that isn't a sign something is up, I don't know what is.

"How long have you been an Abyss Watcher?"

I blink. Those red irises are locked with my own brown ones.

I answer, "Since even before Ciaran waltzed in. I was an enforcer for the last boss when the Abyss Watchers were still just a small-time gang in the lower levels of Coruscant."

Thrawn hums and leans back into his seat. He enters his turn and I grimace slightly as I lose a beast.

"There are times where I wonder what I've gotten myself into."

I stare at the table for a bit longer than I need. I've had that thought myself a couple of times. We all have had it in one way or another. From Coruscant to Naboo and beyond, there will always be a moment where you catch yourself thinking, What have I done to get myself into this mess?

I smile and lean back myself.

"You're in good company then."

Thrawn and I share a glance before I lean in to make my move. A few turns pass by before Thrawn asks another question.

"How does it work?"

"The Watchers?"

Thrawn hums in agreement. I tilt my head.

"Someone so high up in the organization should know how. What is it that you're missing?"

"I have the top-down view. I know how everything interfaces with everything else. I even have a basic profile view as to where our goals come from and where they might lead us to. What I don't have is a perspective from the bottom-up. Criminals of different types are seemingly able to do legal work as well as illegal work. Eccentric personalities, while not the entirety, make up the majority. At first glance, there are too many pieces that normally would clash when together. However, everything still works. I have pieces and possibilities but no certainties to tie the puzzle together. There is a link that I have not found yet. So seeing as you've experienced everything from the beginning, will you be able to enlighten me in regards to the missing link?"

My eyebrows have been raised.

"You're willing to ask a grunt about how the organization is able to function at all levels?"

Thrawn's red eyes bore into me and he nods.

"What better way to begin to see how something moves than at its base?"

I relax back into my seat and close my eyes.

"That will take some thought. Give me a moment?"

"Of course."

I allow the sounds of the room to wash over me as I reminisce. I hear the low beeps coming from the table. I listen to the muffled conversation from the two apprentices who are still sitting down and drinking. I can even feel the faint thrum coming from all the way back at the engines through the bulkheads.

"I think it has to do with our basic motivations."

My eyes open and I lean forward once more. Thrawn rests his head on a fist with a finger covering his cheek.

"Oh?"

"Yes. From the bottom, every one of us wants something. For me it has just been to survive and live comfortably. In the underworld of Coruscant, the Abyss Watchers gave me that and even as it expanded it continued and continues to do so. For the others it might be money. We're all paid very well. We even get stable benefits owed to us by signed contracts. That is unheard of for a low-life criminal, which many of us started out as. For everyone who is hired, you are guaranteed to live a safe and comfortable life outside of your responsibilities to the organization. If you are coming in as a criminal or legal citizen, it doesn't matter so long as your work is fulfilled. For most, this stability lends itself to only a feeling of contentedness. For some others it might lead to the growth of loyalty. Even for those who have ambition there are routes to excel since there are actual ranks."

"And of those who are unable to accomplish anything? And to those few who manage to stick their heads up and cause trouble?"

"At the start it's rare that a rookie is given any true responsibility. Continuous mistakes or failures see demotion. The idea of ranks nicely allows for different levels of payment and benefits. Those who actually manage to fuck up enough to be seen as a load or liability have their contract torn up and see them booted out. For the criminals this happens to be the often unforgiving galactic underworld. Now as for the true trouble makers ... "

A few memories flash across my mind. Intercepting information and orchestrating an accident. Destruction of a safe house leading to an arrest. Permanent removal of someone blowing away a second chance ... And a war. A war against those who thought themselves capable of getting away with an attack at our head. One which saw an entire portion of the galactic underworld destroyed. I blink. I smirk.

"They find themselves unable to cause any more ever again."

"I see."

My smirk quickly turns into another grimace when I look down at the table.

Well, I knew I would lose. I didn't see it being this badly though.

"You seem to have been mistaken."

My focus is torn from my imminent loss towards Thrawn. My eyes narrow and my brow scrunches up. Tilting my head, I ask, "About what?"

Thrawn inputs in the last move of the game and then stands up.

"In the end you did give me something after all."

I have to think about what he's talking about but when I get it I laugh.

"I'm glad that I could be of service. Were you able to figure out what the link is?"

Thrawn pauses beside me as he moves away.

"Not in its entirety, but you did show me an important piece of it."

"Well then, I hope you find the rest."

Before Thrawn leaves the room completely a phrase comes to mind.

"Admiral, before you go."

Thrawn stops at the exit. We're the only two here now. He calmly directs his gaze toward me.

"There's a saying we Seekers have taken to telling those new to being an agent. I figure it might help you a little bit. 'Welcome to the Abyss. It's best for you if you leave your sanity at the edge.' "

Thrawn frowns a little bit and shakes his head slightly.

"I would rather keep mine."

I nod to that and watch the Admiral as he walks out. I sigh and close my eyes.

"To each his own. With that kind of load it means you'll only be falling faster."

 

[Teron]

Recent Messages

To: Ciaran, Xruk, OOM-9
From: Captain Kyral

Additional Starfighters required
I will be blunt, boss. The fleet requires additional starfighters since the pirates have once again proven that if they are capable of something,
then it is swarm tactics which our corvettes can't handle easily. To cut a long story short, we need more fighters to be able to better intercept hostiles.

I will send a summary of the last few battles that erupted upon discovery of pirate stations which should prove my point.

To: Var Zheen
From: Cheriss Sair
CC: Ciaran

Droids
Can you please send some into my lab? I have an idea and I need a few droids and parts to experiment on.
I promise I'll not break anything and leave everything like I have found it. Mostly.


To: Gulan
From: Borvo
CC: Ciaran

Black Sun Warehouse
The latest business report of our Salvage Teams has arrived and aside from the income from melting down scraps they have reported that they have stumbled over a Black Sun warehouse. Abandoned, of course. Send some men down there to meet the teams and see if there is anything we can turn into more credits.


To: Ciaran, Borvo, Gulan
From: Thrawn

Black Market Auction
I have been made aware of an auction that is to be held below the Commercial district. It appears amongst the objects that are to be auctioned are various pieces of stolen art ranging from paintings to highly valuable sculptures of Mandalorian origin. I suggest that we acquire those for the Mansion on Mandalore and the History Initiative. After I have been given the chance to study them, of course.


To: Var Zheen
From: Ciaran

Boba Fett
I want you to analyse the blood sample and medical results from him further. I am curious about his health and any genetical deviations from Jango Fett considering that he is unmodified clone. Look especially for any signs of possible clone degeneration.


To: Ciaran
From: Ventress

Training
Meet me on the Oracle once you are in the Mandalore System. We will train. This is not a request.


To: Ciaran
From: Borvo

Ziros Penthouse
Ciaran, my dear! Can I have Ziros penthouse once you have taken care off him? I bet it has a great view and I allready have ideas for it. Like throwing another party just for the Abyss Watchers!


84 unread Low-Priority Messages,
10 unread High-Priority Messages
24 unread Karada Messages

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"PR-1! I can't take this anymore. Sort through all of this and let me know if there's anything I need to look at personally."
"Of course, Lady Ciaran."

 

[Teron]

Ciarans Relatives

Silas Cata - Grandfather
Nothing needs to be said about this old scoundrel.

Jisela Parsa - Grandmother (deceased)
A Miralukan woman and a rather unusuall Miralukan. Was a instructor of the Luka Sene. Encountered Silas when she was traveling through the Core Regions and they quickly ended up being an odd couple. Died shortly after the birth of her son due to severe illness, leaving Silas very depressed and causing him to quickly leave after arranging for his son to be taken care off by someone else and leaving behind A LOT of credits for him.

Jasper Parsa - Father
Half-Miralukan and son of Silas. Lived quite comfortably due to the credits Silas left behind and became a Luka Sene Scholar. Only rarely encountered Silas and they never got along. Quickly disliked his daughter taking after Silas and being very resistant to any attempt correct that. Oblivious to the fact that the great Lady Ciaran and his daughter are one of the same since she disappeared a long time ago.

Eevy Varn - Mother
Miraluka and wife of Jasper Parsa. Scholar of the Luka Sene. Quite similiar to her husband which includes the heavy dislike of Silas and the fact that Ciaran quickly took after him instead of either of her parents. Also oblivious to the fact that the Lady Ciaran and her daughter are one and the same since she disappeared a long time ago.

No siblings

Various Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, whatever:

Two Examples:
Larana Shayal
Part-Human Twi'lek trader from the Outer Rim. Daughter of one of Silas other children. Relatively successfull trader (in part due to a lot of money her parents got from Silas) and a complete sweetheart. The war ruined her business, she ended up in debt and it ended up being a Hutt who decided to collect the debt. Slavery ensued... and a message is trying to get to Silas who will probably snap.

Galvin Thorn
Part-Human Zeltron. Son of one of Silas other children. Ruthless mercenary and thrillseeker. He too lived a comfortable live thanks to Silas, but the Zeltrons typical love for excitement went to his head... and he loves combat. Also wants to kill Silas just for laughs.


(So... more or less various people of various species in all possible walks of life and in all possible situations.)

 

[Panory]

(i'm kidding it's honestly super great keep going if you want)

Click to shrink...

Twist my arm why don't ya?

The Weakest Link​

Lieutenant Tyro Torwin was the rising star of the Arcblade Fleet. People called him a genius in his youth, and while that may have been true, it was supplemented with more hard work than had probably been necessary for what the fleet usually raided and decades of experience. Unless the Jedi decided to deal with the Blazing Chain raiders, he'd probably never have the need to use half the force tricks he'd picked up over the years.

Still, Tyro knew he wasn't a leader. He'd never make the cut as Adacap. And while a younger man might have chaffed at not receiving recognition as the best, Tyro's ambition had been tempered by time and age. He knew he could probably beat Adacap Zekk's face in, but she was a better leader than he'd ever be. He was content to keep raiding as her second in command until age made him too slow to dodge a blaster bolt, and his son would have to deal with a legacy he'd be nowhere near. Still, that comparison would propel little Tosh to one day surpass his old man.

The ship shook, and Tyro was snapped out of his thoughts by a blaring alarm and Adacap Zekk's voice shouting over the intercom. "We got hostiles, a whole damn fleet of them, and they caught us by surprise. Engines got shot in that opening volley. If you aren't firing back at them, get ready to repel boarders!" Tyro sprinted to his quarters to grab a spare blaster and a lot of ammunition. The less practical side of his mind reminded him of his son, probably playing with the other young boys who knows where on the ship.

Bursting into the room, Tyro cursed as he picked up his raiding gear when he saw his son nowhere to be found. He'd just have to hope Tosh had found a safe place to hide, and fight all the harder to keep intruders off the ship.

Turning a corner on his way to one of the ship's hangers, Tyro raised his blaster and fired at the approaching pirate. His bolt was deflected with a wave of the enemy's hand, and Tyro raised his off hand and reached out with the Force. He didn't particularly care why the Blackshackle Fleet would try to attack them, and at the moment he didn't really care. The blaster bot that had been brushed aside stopped completely before rocketing back to hit the Blackshackle pirate, who collapsed limply on the floor.

Tyro didn't spare the corpse a second glance, instead hurrying to the hanger. The blast doors opened to reveal roughly a dozen raiders guarding the ships, likely to prevent escapes. Taking advantage of their confusion, Tyro rolled behind a stack of shipping containers that had yet to be unpacked from the last raid. Never thought he'd be grateful the young pirates of the Arcblade Fleet had such a reputation for "doing it later".

Fire rained down on his position, some bolts curving around to try and hit him or turning abruptly at sharp angles, though he casually brushed them aside with the Force when they got too close. There weren't many, since most Blazing Chain pirates focused more on getting better manipulation instead of sensing, which led to firing blind when there wasn't line of sight.

It was a critical flaw of the Blazing Chain style, one which Tyro had decided to correct at some point in his life. Leaning up behind those boxes, Tyro closed his eyes and reached out with the force. He could sense the life of each Blackshackle raider, each blaster bolt, and as always most disconcertingly, himself. Tyro added twelve more blaster bolts to the chaos on random directions. The Force stopped each one simultaneously, before they launched towards their individual target in unpredictable zig zag patterns.

Tyro stood calmly, looking at the dozen odd corpses that had guarded the hanger. Tyro mused that the fact that none of his shots had been deflected meant the twelve had likely been novices. Just then the door burst open and Adacap Zekk rushed in, followed by more blaster fire than any one practitioner of the Blazing Chain could possible deflect. Rather than fire back at her attackers, Zekk shot the control panel, shutting the door and essentially locking it to buy her some time.

"Heh, should have figured they wouldn't be able to take you down so easily." said Zekk as she limped towards him. "We need to get out of her. I know I'm asking a lot, but I'm not in any condition to keep conscious, let alone fly a ship out of here."

"If even you're talking about running, I take it the fleet is doomed?" asked Tyro as he draped one of Zekk's arms over his shoulders and helped her into one of the ships designed the fit more than a single pilot.

"Yeah. Sorry, I tried to get Tosh out with me, he and his friends were on the bridge watching the maintenance on the weapon systems. You know how boys are at that age, any excuse to fire a blaster. Meant we weren't at full capacity when these Blackshackle bastards attacked though."

"You're rambling Zekk. Just get some rest. Can't have you dying on me." interjected Tyro.

"Fine, I'll trust you not to crash us into some planet and get a little rest. Leave something behind for those Blackshackle bastards though, would you?" asked Zekk as he set her down in the co-pilot's seat, though he doubted she'd be doing much piloting.

"You're the Adacap." Tyro said simply as he removed a full clip from his bandolier and tossed it in front of the door. It had taken a lot of trial and error, and what catastrophic errors they had been, to learn this next trick, and even then it was more an art than a science. Still, if all went according to plan, the clip would rupture the next time someone moved it, firing blaster bolts in every direction. That would be a nasty surprise for the Blackshackle raiders.

Tyro climbed into the pilot's seat and rushed through the safety checks they were always supposed to do. Zekk was already asleep by the time Tyro took off, which was probably for the best considering how bad her leg had looked. It wasn't easy flying through the chaos, but the fact that they were in a stolen Blackshackle ship kept the other Blackshackles from attacking them, and the dogfighting had been mostly settled. By now it would have progressed to boarding, where the Arcblade pirates would be slaughtered to the man and their valuables repossessed. Tyro and Zekk would need to warn the other fleets. A Blazing Chains fleet cannibalizing the others was bad news, and it was even worse when they won, since it meant they'd have twice as many ships when they inevitably attacked the next fleet. With that in mind, Tyro punched in the coordinates of the Stronglink fleet, and their ship made the jump.

XXX​

Tyro watched impassively as the last Blackshackle fleet ship was destroyed by the third ever Blazing Chains Alliance. It had honestly taken all these fleets working together to even have a chance at victory, since the Blackshackles had been one of the largest even before they took the Arcblade fleet. Still, Adacap Zonsoe's mad crusade had been stopped. Still, the civil war had aged Tyro beyond his years, made him even more tired than ever.

"I'm thinking of leaving the fleet. Retiring." said Tyro.

"Well I won't stop you, but I will bitch about it. It'll be damn hard to rebuild the fleet by my lonesome." said Zekk. While they were the only two surviving Arcblade raiders, and every last one of their ships had been destroyed, so long as the Adacap lived, so did the fleet. "Any idea of what you're going to do?"

"I don't know, maybe teach. I've picked up a thing or two about the Blazing Chain style. Maybe I'll head to Coruscant and teach Jedi. Force knows they need it. Apparently the morons block blaster bolts." laughed Tyro.

"Well I wish you the best of luck." said Zekk. While the two were close friends, Tyro could hear the resentment in her voice, and he couldn't blame her. This was a selfish decision made by an old man to run away from bad memories, and they both knew it.

"I won't forget my roots. Any money I make is getting sent right to you. You better use it to rebuild the fleet, instead of to go and get drunk like always." The two laughed at that. They both knew Zekk didn't drink.

"Take care you old bastard." said Zekk, giving Tyro a big hug. Tyro Torwin closed his eyes and returned it.


AN: I can't stop, send help. A bit of backstory for Tyro, since a concept as cool as our force wielding pirate civil war veteran teacher needs to be someone we can't forget about. So here he is being an absolute badass. And who knows what tricks Tyro might teach Ciaran if she gets advanced enough.

 

[Stealthy]

Let's add to the pile then, shall we? Been sitting on this for... a while. Seemed like it was time I post it so I'll stop nitpicking. The audio log format works well for me because it lets me ramble, but finding Thrawn's sense of cadence has been tricky. Still don't think I've nailed it yet, especially since his laconic/succinct style works better in dialogue than something long-form like this. Whatever.

---

Excerpts from Mitth'raw'nuruodo's Assessment of Key Members of the Abyss Watchers Organization

Focus: General Grievous

Spoiler

...Except for Lady Ciaran, the member of the Abyss Watchers I find most useful is Qymaen jai Sheelal, better known by his adopted alias: Grievous. For my assessment, I shall start by examining his homeworld: Kalee, and the Kaleesh people.

The history of the Kaleesh is rife with abuse from outsiders. As an example, not long ago the Republic manipulated them to act as their mercenaries against the Bitthævrians. This act is responsible for a stark increase in the technological level of their weaponry. It was a foolish move by the Republic, and reaffirms to me its ineptitude. History consistently shows that societies are better served by gradual and evenly distributed advancement. Giving starships and blasters to a planet that still uses spears will cause long term problems for both the Kaleesh and their neighbors. Problems that the Abyss Watchers are enabling to their benefit.

But more importantly, the Kaleesh been enslaved multiple times. The most notable of these are their subjugation by the long dead Sith Empire, and their struggles against the Yam'rii (known by the epithet "Huk"). I am having trouble finding more detailed records of their people and planet, but this was expected. They are a low-tech species on a planet of little significance...

...Their warrior-culture is well known by now, but the details of it show a civility that defies stereotypical barbarism. I find their religion to be the most interesting. It is not based on omnipotent deities who govern the aspects of the world; instead it is a celebration of their greatest heroes. The majority of their gods are worshiped for being profound warriors, but they also revere the wisest of their rulers and their religious leaders. I have found both Kaleesh Jedi and Kaleesh Sith in their pantheon, and a few members I suspect may not be from Kalee at all. They are a fairly pious people; attacking those on pilgrimages is one of the gravest crimes a Kaleesh can commit, and is surpassed only by defiling graves and other holy sites.

Honor is essential to the Kaleesh. Most of their wars revolve around a tribe's honor. Whether an opponent is "honorable" is the difference between respect and hatred. The Huk show how much of a difference that makes. They treat most of their opponents with dignity as their honor demands, but also because of a general belief in equality. Gender equality on Kalee exceeds that of many other societies in the galaxy...

...The Kaleesh have a strong sense of order. They have a clear set of guidelines for major political decisions, and they obey the outcomes. There is also a coordination among all the tribes with regards to their pantheon. Among many species with this sort of system, there will be disparities. Tribes favor their ancestors, but they don't dispute who has or has not ascended to godhood. The intricacies of their shamans' rituals are a closely guarded secret, but they are clearly coordinated to a sophisticated extent. This is the framework the Kaleesh use when they need to unite their tribes, and it is just as effective.

Furthermore, as the path to godhood is through great deeds, their culture is individualistic. Each Kaleesh seeks to prove themselves worthy. Yet they can still unify, follow orders, and act as a unit. They have both a desire for individual achievement, and an understanding of the values of cooperation. I hypothesize that this is a remnant of a slave mentality, which makes the subjugated cruelly aware of their faults. But if paired with a leader they respect as Greater, they will be unquestioningly obedient and have unbreakable morale. This makes them exceptional soldiers...

...But these are the complexities of their society. At their base they are still a warlike people. Killing is a small crime on Kalee. Their codes of "honor" are not chivalric or benevolent; they are based on their bloody path to godhood. Failing to make the distinction is a deadly mistake. There are no great Kaleesh philosophers, diplomats, or artists. There are some in their pantheon known to be "peacemakers", but these warriors created peace only by forcing the enemy to submission or destruction. The closest thing to a true peacemaker I can find in their history is Abesmi lij Tykan, the first of their gods, who achieved "peace" by inflicting the notion of honor among the tribes, and setting the norms for warfare. And even so, she only was able to bend the tribes to obey her decrees after proving to be an exceptional warlord. While there is no specific number as a threshold, a sizable kill-count is the simplest way to achieve godhood. But they are not picky with how you kill your enemies. Cunning is valued as much as valor, but only if you get the kill. And, of course, war is celebrated on this planet...

...I assumed Grievous' alias referred to his brutality and severity. However, I learned that Grievous is not meant in the sense of "a grievous wound", but instead "to grieve", in reference to a lost loved one. It is sentimental. Some will dismiss this as Grievous simply being a "civilized" anomaly; the same excuse for his strategic acumen - an acumen vastly superior to many leaders of "civilized" species. But this is bigotry, and ignores what the Kaleesh truly are. Grief, compassion, and related feelings are not considered weak. Grievous' soldiers respect him all the same for it, if not moreso. These people have not lost their sense of humanity.

The Ascendancy would call the Kaleesh a tragic species: driven to war by the harshness of their homeworld and the brutality of the Huk. They would declare their sense of fraternity to be base, and their sense of empathy discarded. They would declare Grievous, the quintessential brutal warlord, as the great avatar of this fact. Some Chiss may express pity, but I know far too well that most of the Ascendancy would write off the Kaleesh as nothing but savages and barbarians.

We Chiss have the good fortune of being isolated, and are the masters of our fate. We have never been the victim of other worlds, which is why the Ascendency banned aggression and preventative strikes for two thousand years. We rarely deal with foreigners. And so the Ascendancy can not understand that the Kaleesh do not fight as a desperate, unenlightened, measure, and Grievous is not driven by tragedy. He fights not for vengeance or penance, but for glory. They are a species that lacks agency, and must take it by force. War is not a necessity, it is progress...

...This may give the impression that I have strategic insight into the Kaleesh, but that is not true. I have described an overview of their culture and values, but I cannot find their psychological limits. I can only apply broad axioms. I value the art of a species when finding their weaknesses for reasons I have better described before. Art has a unique richness, but I can draw few useful conclusions from the Kaleesh's works. I do not blame this on a weak artistic output. That would be false, and I have discerned more with less for other species. No, this is a shortcoming of my own. I am not omniscient; and the Kaleesh have stumped me on this front. I am using Grievous to rectify my failure.

Of course, the Kaleesh can still be beaten. Their history speaks to that, as does my record of simulated war games against Grievous. I have a superior tactical and strategic mind, which as always is my greatest asset. Against Grievous, I have used his guerilla foundations against him, though he is not easy to outwit. He easily adjusts to new scenarios. And he is more daring than anyone in the organization - except for Lady Ciaran. His audacity is a great tool. While it is his most obvious vulnerability, he defends it well. He will see through the ruses of lesser commanders, trigger them, and then win anyway, simply because he is more intelligent than they are. Despite his reputation, Grievous is typically underestimated. He learned quickly that I do not.

But against the species as a whole, their largest weakness is a technological gap. Kalee lacks planetary shielding. If necessary, orbital bombardment would do a satisfactory job. Though that would be a waste of Kaleesh lives. It is paramount that any war against the Kaleesh be within their codes of "honor", unless I plan to annihilate them completely. The Kaleesh will accept defeat against a worthy opponent, and defeat is an effective way to convert them from enemy to ally. The species difference is not an obstacle. The Kaleesh already treat me with respect, if not the reverence they give to Grievous and - to an extent - Lady Ciaran...

...It is not merely his tactical talents, martial prowess, or adaptability that I value most in Grievous. He believes in full measures. If given the means and freedom to do so, he would commit genocide against the Huk and permanently end their threat to his people. It is why he pursued them to their homeworld after evicting them from Kalee, after all. While I prefer the galaxy united and whole, I would not stand in the way of Grievous on this hypothetical crusade. The Huk are parasites, and would threaten the unification of the galaxy. Grievous has shown this commitment to wholly annihilating the enemy against the Black Sun criminal empire as well, and I have no doubt that he will do so against the greater enemy. Such severity may be necessary...

 

[Valkur]

Omake - Duel

Light sabers buzz and clash as Asajj goes after Ciaran with all of the aggression she has..while Ciaran just dodges out of the way and hits her with a stunning device. In fact, this was a very familiar dance by these two some time ago much to the chagrin of Asajj.

"Won't you get serious about training?! You need to LEARN MORE THAN THAT!" Asajj said diving back into combat.

"Only if you can catch-" Ciaran is interrupted and thrown back with a force push and jumped on by Asajj.

"This is why you need to train harder. The enemies we face can do this much better than I can and you need to have skills to fight back or.." she says raising her light saber up to Ciarans face "you die. Violently.".

Ventress gets up and allows Ciaran a break after the 20 whole minutes of their spar.

"Ventress can I ask what's wrong now?"

"We are being hunted and your too stupid to see it. It's in the force and you refuse to feel it."

Ciarans looks on "Death comes at a slow pace for everyone. I'm not afraid of failure Ventress but I am afraid of not going all out when whoever Darth Sidious is shows up."

"Stupid girl. Do you think this is a game?"

"No. I know this is real but I just refuse to let myself be taken in by the force like let it.

Unlike you and the Sith and the Jedi. I have no strings be they this metaphysical 'Force' or anyone."

The spars continued from that point this time with Ciaran actually attacking and making use of well timed counters to Ventress overextending her reach. They trained hard but in the end it was Ventress who came out on top if only because of her being so much more experienced in lengthy combat than Ciaran who was use to running away or having a fire team close by. It was definitely a weakness but could Ciaran cover up that weakness in time? Well only the fates could tell now.