We're glad you see reason Madame Chief-of-State. Merkat is an acceptable location and we agree with the spirit of most of your stipulations. That being said:
-We will agree to abide by a cease-fire as you've laid out on the conditions both sides provide signed oaths to abide by the same from their respective theater commanders. In addition your forces in the Tapani sector will withdraw to their position at Thyferra and allow us to carry out police action against former Grand Admiral Grant.
-While it is understandable to want to involve as many voices as necessary, we fail to see the benefit confusing the matters between us with a chorus. You already represent a varied conglomerate of cells, our empire is vast, and the nature of talks between blocs such as ours must necessarily limit the scope of conversation. Bilateral negotiations please, rather than predicating this meeting on the cooperation of a dozen disparate groups.
-A neutral mediator should be involved, and we agree to the Hutts. Their reputation is well earned.
We will begin the process of withdrawing, of course, however we cannot guarantee that the withdrawal shall be swift due to the volume of materiel currently in place at Mrlsst and given that this ceasefire shall only remain in effect for negotiations, it is questionable whether we will be completed by their conclusion. Nevertheless we shall begin the process and continue it through the talks as a show of good faith.
Very well then, we will include representatives from Oplovis and other such worlds in our own delegation in order to narrow down the number of voices speaking and we trust that you shall do the same with your allies.
We will begin the process of withdrawing, of course, however we cannot guarantee that the withdrawal shall be swift due to the volume of materiel currently in place at Mrlsst and given that this ceasefire shall only remain in effect for negotiations, it is questionable whether we will be completed by their conclusion. Nevertheless we shall begin the process and continue it through the talks as a show of good faith.
Very well then, we will include representatives from Oplovis and other such worlds in our own delegation in order to narrow down the number of voices speaking and we trust that you shall do the same with your allies.
Bilateral meaning bilateral Madame. Representatives of the Galactic Empire, and representatives of your self-styled New Republic, no one else apart from our chosen mediators. Attempts to bring our renegade provinces in to these talks are not appreciated.
Bilateral meaning bilateral Madame. Representatives of the Galactic Empire, and representatives of your self-styled New Republic, no one else apart from our chosen mediators. Attempts to bring our renegade provinces in to these talks are not appreciated.
-With the increase in power due to various absorption and recruitment as well as 'acquisitions', turn the Lok Revenants effort fully on bringing other pirates in the sector to heel. Destroy the intractable ones unwilling to change with the times and refuse the Lok Revenants ultimatum (particularly the slavers and slaver aligned groups). Offer the more reasonable ones terms of being absorbed into the Lok Revenants. They follow the rules, minimize bloodshed whenever possible, and acknowledge Nym as boss in essence and follow orders.
-Utilizing the more disciplined and professional elements of the Lok Revenants (namely the elite Havoc squadrons) begin light patrols of various systems of the Karthakk Sector. Filling in part of the void of the low presence of the Imperials and some of the withdrawals from the sector. They will be tasked with responding to distress calls and aiding civilian shipping within the sector against other pirates and raiders. Acting with above to prove the commitment of the Lok Revenants to its previous offer to the sector worlds.
-Recruitment will continue.
-Start up a commercial arm of the Lok Revenants, the Lok Commercial Group, which will handle the exploitation of mineral resources in the Karthakk system from the asteroid belts, as well as trying to build up a industry on Lok. Will start selling the resources to local systems within the sector.
For it's role in Grand Moff Jaeffis' act of defiance, Corellia would be made to suffer harshly in the most unintended of fashions. Between the destruction of the Corellian Shipyards, the extensive damage sustained to the planet's surface, and the cost taken by the garrison, Corellia has fallen far and fast from it's once lofty heights. With all funding to the planet being almost exclusively devoted to military projects, such as the building of new fortifications and repairs to the orbital shipyards, little has been done to rectify the growing problems on the planet's surface to ill effect. Unemployment has risen by more than 100%, the number of homeless now living on the streets has skyrocketed dramatically, debris from more than a year ago still lies strewn all over the floor, and the Corellian economy has effectively collapsed. Combined with growing resentment of the Empire, hence why men such as Garm Bel Iblis are so awash with recruits from the planet, Corellia has turned into a powder keg just waiting to blow if only the right spark would be provided.
The Corellian Food Riots would prove to be that spark with the Imperial Garrison announcing tighter rationing of food supplies in response to raids on Imperial checkpoints on the planet by resistance forces. Believing that the best way to ensure compliance would be to starve them into submission, a commonly used Imperial tactic right up there with just blowing the planet up, Imperial Stormtroopers would knock away the hungry and the destitute while the officers dined. Rather than give up and go home, however, those seeking food would mass outside distribution points and begin what are known as the Corellian Food Riots, three days of rioting across the planet as millions stormed distribution points, barracks, and government offices seeking food, vengeance, or both. Although the riots would be suppressed, violently with a death toll only exacerbated by the refusing of medical treatment to wounded rioters by the Empire, it has served as a reminder both of how tenuous the Empire's hold is over Corellia and as a glimpse into a darker future.
From: Col. Baron Soontir Fel
To: Regency Council (@Grand Admiral Sloane, @Director Isard, @Grand Architect Trask) and @Her Majesty the Empress
*Classified*
In light of the severe crisis on Corellia, and it's extreme importance to Galactic commerce in these trying times, it is my suggestion that the current Governor be removed from power, and replaced by a native governor immediately, while all attempts are made to alleviate the crisis.
ACTIONS:
- Soontir Fel begins purchasing food from out of the system, and shipping it to his estate for further distribution as part of a Crisis relief program.
I would say that the current plight of Corellia surprises me, but it doesn't. This is merely the latest in a long line of tragedies, many noticed, many not, which show that the Galactic Empire has lost any semblance of legitimacy to rule over their people, whom they choose to suppress through force and atrocities for the personal power of a select few.
To all those on Corellia, do not fear, and do not give up hope. Show the Empire that the Corellian spirit can never be broken, and that we will never stop fighting for what we believe in.
From: Col. Baron Soontir Fel
To: Regency Council (@Grand Admiral Sloane, @Director Isard, @Grand Architect Trask) and @Her Majesty the Empress
*Classified*
In light of the severe crisis on Corellia, and it's extreme importance to Galactic commerce in these trying times, it is my suggestion that the current Governor be removed from power, and replaced by a native governor immediately, while all attempts are made to alleviate the crisis.
ACTIONS:
- Soontir Fel begins purchasing food from out of the system, and shipping it to his estate for further distribution as part of a Crisis relief program.
To: The civilians of the Galactic Empire and of other reaches of Space
From: General Logan of Kamino
With the recent news from Corellia of supply shortages, Kamino is officillay opening its doors to all of those without food or in need of work. We have plenty of food, factories that need workers, and plenty of job opportunities. We will give housing to those who come and in exchange for us feeding and helping you we ask that you respect our government and listen to me, the general. This invitation is open to all species, all classes, and even to pirates. Come here for a better life.
The following is an transcription of a message played on the Corellian Holonet @Sidheach
"And for the fifth month in a row, the chocolate ration has been increased for the Corellia system, following the defeat of the Rebels--
We interrupt this message to bring speech from Borsk Fey'lya, of the New Republic!
My brothers and sisters of Corellia! Selonians and Drall, I speak to you from a free system, a free nation. The New Republic stands with you. Too long has the humans of the Empire oppressed you, forced you to live under human domination. Are not the Selonians and the Dralls equal to any among the Five Brothers? You can not, you must not live passively under the boot of the Empire. Rise up, revolt, and show Coruscant that humans are not the masters of this galaxy!"
--and Baron Fel's fighting 181st have just returned to Imperial Center."
From: Col. Baron Soontir Fel
To: Regency Council (@Grand Admiral Sloane, @Director Isard, @Grand Architect Trask) and @Her Majesty the Empress
*Classified*
In light of the severe crisis on Corellia, and it's extreme importance to Galactic commerce in these trying times, it is my suggestion that the current Governor be removed from power, and replaced by a native governor immediately, while all attempts are made to alleviate the crisis.
Regardless Director Isard's decision vis a vis the disposition of the governorship, my own attentions will be directed that way as I move my command back there. Matters in Tapani having simplified themselves we'll see if we can't solidify our hold.
Recognizing the unbalanced nature of their proposed triumvirate without its third member, Fleet Admiral Sloane and Director Isard set about the search for a Grand Architect. In the process of power brokering and seeking to balance focus against talent and drive it was decided to expand the ruling council from three to five seats. Integrating civilian and military voices, the new structure held the promise of a more efficient transition upon Ederlathh's ascension to the throne, and a robust response to either continued war or ephemeral peace.
Fleet Admiral Rae Sloane, representing High Command
Director of COMPNOR, Ysanne Isard
Director of Domestic Affairs, Sarvus Trask, Grand Architect of the New Order
Director of War Operations, Grand Admiral Zsinj
Director of Foreign Affairs, Bevan Umbrkal
As battle droids become a common part of Kol Huran life, the expectations of those organic troops left has been raised. With droids doing all the easy or simple tasks, stormtroopers have found themselves going from guarding doors and cleaning trash compactors to serious combat drills and command based responsibilities. There have been grumblings at the higher standards, but for many the idea of being in charge of someone is gratifying, even if "someone" is "a squad of droids". In addition, with Kol Huro's manpower surplus, fewer citizens have been conscripted, freeing them up to work at the factories, bureaucratic offices, or the popular Varinius Stations popping up across the system. The System Governor has supported these aims, stating that "When your heart is filled with love of the Empire, you help it's prosperity no matter what you do, be it defending our people or feeding them".
ACTIONS:
Standards for military personnel at Kol Huro are raised, leading to extensive drilling.
More and more troopers are being trained as droid commanders.
Kol Huro's economy is diversifying...slightly.
SM Marshall begins looking into academies to send his children to.
To: Facility Director of Ibanjji@Sidheach From: Surface Marshall Varinius
I ask again your permission to use Ibanjji's training facilities.
After having gone to ground not long after the Battle of Kamino and the loss of Darth Vader, Captain Juno Eclipse has resurfaced in the New Republic as the Jedi Order's personal pilot. Though the Captain is considered to be eminently qualified for a higher command, the fact that her two young children, the twins Rahm and Mallie Marek, have become the Jedi Order's youngest members at the age of six, appears to have driven her decision to take the posting with the Jedi. Hopes that the return of Juno Eclipse might have proceeded the return of Galen Marek as well, however, have been dashed after it was revealed that the Jedi Knight perished not long after the birth of their children as a result of certain fail safes built in during the cloning process that caused him to rapidly age and ultimately pass away once signals ceased being sent from Kamino.
Summary
Juno Eclipse resurfaces as the Jedi Order's personal pilot.
Starkiller revealed to be dead.
Jedi Order gains two new apprentices, Rahm and Mallie Marek.
Fleet Admiral Sloane raised her flag over Corellia upon her return from Coruscant to the greatly diminished, though slowly recovering 56th Battlegroup. Accompanied by the 181st and fresh stormtroopers to reinforce the garrison she set about laying preliminary ground work for the Army Engineering Corp to deal with the worst of still battle-scarred district, in preparation for the man of the hour. Arriving a few days after Sloane, Baron Soontir Fel entered Corellian space at the head of the Empress' Own Squadron. Aboard its flagship, the SSD Imperatrix, Director Isard and the Fleet Admiral named the Baron the new governor of Corellia with the full faith and backing of the Regency Council and her Imperial Majesty.
To Rear Admiral Alfred .K.H. Nelson (The guy in charge of my two fleets) @Sidheach
From: Grand Moff Kaine
As of right now you are temporarily under the command of Baron-Governor Soontir Fel to make sure Corellia is A.) Secured for the Empire and B.) Make sure the population are well fed.
Private
Have fun Nelson, Soontir is a high figure in Imperial Court and you could use success in helping to end the crisis to get you higher in the court, just saying.
Mandalore loomed over 'Ailyn' Vel's grave, her thoughts tossing in a maelstrom under the mask. Fett had told herself that she felt nothing when Pizztov senior struck down her double on Phaeda. The other Ailyn was an impersonator. A falsehood planted in her shoes for reasons unknown. The revelation of her existence had threatened years of effort maintaining that fragile charade.
Yet the resemblance was uncanny. Her life faded before Mandalore's eyes, and Fett could not help but search for the symbolism. When Sintas awoke from her carbonite prison, blind and fumbling through amnesia, the death of her 'daughter' felt all the more real. Mandalore could say nothing as memories of a husband and daughter lost to time slowly returned. She could only imagine the cocktail of betrayal and contempt that her own mother now felt towards her.
Because she did not know.
A gust of wind howled against the modest tombstone laid at the Fett homestead. Mandalore wondered if Boba had destroyed her family, as she truly believed he had done , when he abandoned her all those years ago. Perhaps there was no family to begin with. What warmth could there have been between her mother and someone like that? Mandalore had said little to Sintas since her rescue, and evidently had already perfectly mimicked their relationship.
Night had fallen. The holo cast a ghostly light against Mandalore as it flickered into focus. They looked so... happy. She thought of Ghes Ordo. A comrade she had never truly known, and he of her. Of them all, Ordo was the one who had truly lost. 'Ailyn' had no meaning to Mandalore, and would have none to Sintas. But revealing the truth would only further torture the jetii. He would look upon her and see only a phantom pain.
But her honor would not allow her to hide the truth.
Fett looked from the hologram to the message displayed in her helmet. She had previously sent word to Sintas, and they had both agreed to the rendezvous. She felt their presence as she glanced at Ailyn's grave one last time. She could not bear to look at them through false eyes any longer. The helmet hissed as her suit depressurized. The cool evening air brushed against her face, sweeping through her hair. She kneeled, reverently placing the helmet against the tombstone.
Mandalore rose and faced her family.
Actions:
-'Ailyn Vel's remains are tested for biological similarity and markers for cloning in secret.
-Concerted anti-piracy campaign begins in Mandalorian space.
-Fleet and defensive installation production continues
-Mandalorian fleets continue expedition with Hutt forces.
-Mandalore reveals everything of her identity to Sintas Vel and Ghes Ordo.
To: Archduke of Geonosis, Drabble the Lesser, @Revlid From: Mon Mothma, Chief of State, New Republic
Your Grace,
It is always an extraordinary moment of joy to find that Sophonts have survived the genocides of the Empire. It is therefore my pleasure to extend to your Grace, on behalf of the sophonts of the New Republic and in my personal name, our sincerest offers of congratulations on having not just survived Imperial persecution but to have risen from it in strength.
While expressing my sincere appreciation for your support of the New Republic, I reciprocate the same to you and the sophonts of Geonosis, assuring Your Grace of my deep care to bolster the cooperation between your people and mine for our mutual good and common interest, and in this vein invite you to send a delegation to the New Republic capital at Eriadu to formalize the accession of the Geonosian People to the New Republic and to confirm your choice of Senator to the New Republic senate.
May the Force be with you,
Mon Mothma.
Actions:
Invite the Geonosians to the New Republic
Confirm their Senator
Organize a first aid convoy with essential medical supplies (particularly Bacta) to be shipped to Geonosis
Now in charge of the Corellian clusterfuck, Baron Soontir Fel quickly develops an action plan, even as he leaves his wife and children on Imperial Center, and governs from his personal estate.
Baron Governor Colonel Soontir Fel's action plan for Corellia.
The " Fel Plan"
Military and Political Activities as Governor of Corellia:
For immediate famine relief, use available Imperial heavy lift capabilities, including the local Star Destroyer fleets made available for said efforts, (stripped of their stormtroopers, ground vehicles and prefabricated bases, with supplies replacing them, while the garrisons and storm troopers are deployed to Corellia and neighboring planets) to deliver food supplies from nearby agriworlds. This includes the Imperatrix, due to her immense hangars and cargo holds.
Hunt through any Clone Wars surplus vessels for any serviceable Acclamator-class ships and Lucrehulk class Battleships. The Acclamators will be used as-is for cargo transportation (except former Slave ships, which will of course have their cells removed for cargo handling purposes,) while Lucrehulk battleships will be returned to their original freighter configuration, for use by the Imperial Navy, and famine relief efforts.
Employ unemployed workers for reconstruction and food distribution on Corellia. Pay is primarily in rations and a per diem of credits.
In a nod to imperial policy, highest priority for food distribution on Corellia is to humans and near-humans, then the Selonians and Drall, and after them, to the other non-human species present on Corellia (who comprise <1% of the population, and can be ignored.)
Given the issues of rebel sympathizers, informants against the rebellion will receive bounties of credits and food.
Propaganda Blitz, pointing out that the explosion in piracy and warlordism thanks to the civil war, and the rebellion has destroyed the galactic merchant fleet. Only the New Order can bring peace, and look at how we're using all those spiffy warships your taxes paid for.
Special focus is to be given to the SSD Imperatrix participation in famine relief efforts.
Fel's Personal Life
Keep the Empress happy.
Once situation on Corellia has settled down, invite her to visit the estate on a vacation/Official State Visit
Teach her, the boys and those two hostages how to fly a TIE fighter.
Buy her a pet Lethian Twilek if Sloane will let me? (Buy Sloane one too maybe?)
Take my own TIE fighter with me to Corellia to keep me sane.
In the Galactic Northwest, the territories of Grand Moff Kaine and the Empire of Oplovis have settled into an uneasy peace. Though there has been, in the upper echelons of the Empire, a repeated desire to subdue the rebellious swathe of space along the Braxant Run, the logical candidate to deal with the problem has continued to stay his hand and allow Oplovis to remain as it is. The reasoning behind this decision on the part of Grand Moff Kaine, of course, remains unknown as few are privy to the inner workings of the Grand Moff's mind however it has proven to be a surprisingly sensible decision that has benefited both Kaine and Drommel. With the Galactic Northwest not riven by conflict as has been the case elsewhere, the region has largely stabilised with several campaigns both by Grand Moff Kaine and Emperor Drommel putting a lid on the pirate problem and ensuring trade is once more able to flow smoothly throughout the region. That it has also meant that Kaine and Drommel's subordinates have come to something of an accord, to the point where there has been sporadic cooperation against mutual foes, is of less of a clear benefit as it will most likely work against any potential efforts to subdue the Empire of Oplovis however for the time being, it has aided in smoothing over difficulties and ensuring peace in the region.
At the same time, this peace has translated into other areas with the lack of fighting proving a boon to both powers domestically. In those territories controlled by Grand Moff Kaine, there has been something of a burst in HoloNet activity with new shows, such as Top Fighter, a show dedicated to reviewing new starships and whacky antics, rising to the fore to entertain the masses while the lack of conflict has also allowed more soldiers to be freed up for peacekeeping efforts. Even if the populace is not particularly enamored with the Empire, the peace and stability in the region has meant that Kaine has been free to keep his territories as orderly and quiet as possible, marking it as one of the largest bastions of Imperial control in the Outer Rim.
Within the Empire of Oplovis, on the other hand, the efforts of Emperor Drommel to reform his Empire and make it a stable and largely democratic state have produced boons of their own as the populace experiments with their newfound freedom under the Emperor's rule. Though this has most often translated into art, criticism of the government, and a certain laxness with regards to old societal standards, for the Oplovians, this experimentation has largely translated into the political with the new democratic reforms proving of particular interest. Close observation of elections and outright participation in the political process has proven especially popular amongst the masses who decidedly enjoy having something of a say in the way their planets are run particularly as it translates into not being shot by the authorities for having differing opinions.
At the same time, it should be noted that the Empire of Oplovis has seized upon this peace to further strengthen itself with assistance from New Republic advisers dispatched to aid Eriadu's newest ally in the Galaxy. Making use of the Vosteltig Shipyards, the Oplovians have begun the process of reequipping their forces with domestically produced ships where possible, such as the F-03 Starfighter which is itself a modernised Z-95 Headhunter, and reorganising their military to streamline it's command. Combined with the benefits provided by returning veterans, such as Keyan Farlander who chose to return to Oplovis, the Empire of Oplovis has fast managed to consolidate it's position in the galaxy and make certain that any efforts to subdue it will meet heavy resistance.
Summary
Kaine and Drommel maintain an easy truce.
Pirates in the Galactic Northwest getting the hammer brought down on them.
Kaine and Oplovis benefit from peace. Trade resumes, free of pirate raids, HoloNet shows become popular, and Oplovis gets all democratic and political.
Oplovian Military continues reforms, becomes very good at defending Oplovis.
---
Hegemony Broken
Corporate Sector Security
---
Ambition & Greed. Since the foundation of the Corporate Sector Authority, those two words have been the driving force behind it's actions which is no doubt why the nationalisation of the Kuat Drive Yards proved so contentious and why, in the wake of certain disagreements with the Empire, the CSA's leadership chose to expand. Targeting Dellalt, the Corporate Sector Authority would send no less than three Picket Fleets into the Tion Hegemony with the aim of staging an aggressive takeover of the planet to the benefit of the shareholders. With the Tion Hegemony having been weakened years ago by the Empire, the Corporate Sector Authority's attack on Dellalt would go just about as one might expect with only a paltry, token resistance being mounted before the planet was taken over. The occupation itself would be one characteristic of the Corporate Sector Authority with corporations swiftly descending to snap up everything on the planet, from property to businesses, to the poor, and consequently a painful one.
Already cries for help have echoed out from Dellalt, with some drawing parallels to the Trade Federation's infamous attempt to take over Naboo, to the Empire, the New Republic, and even the Hutts as one might expected from a subjugated planet. It would be none of these powers that would respond, however, with another force coming to Dellalt's aid with the Red Rage flying in to aid the occupied planet, splitting off a portion of his master's forces in order to harry and assault the Corporate Sector Authority's fleets. Though the Red Rage, better known as Kyp Durron to his followers, lacks the numbers to dislodge the Corporate Sector Authority, he has proven exceptionally skilled at throwing a wrench in their works at every available opportunity, hitting supply convoys, blowing up factories, and making an utter nightmare of himself. The sheer ferocity observed in his attacks has further made him into something of a hero in the Tion Hegemony, in spite of his affinity for the Dark Side, with many flocking to his banner in the hopes of fighting alongside that dark, brooding, mysterious warrior.
Summary
CSA takes over Dellalt.
Kyp Durron takes ships to aid Dellalt, harrying the CSA at every turn, and becomes a folk hero in the Tion Hegemony.
Theraan's office is cavernous and bare, with a great window covering the entire outer wall. It is, by happenstance, rather reminiscent of an Imperial office in its austerity and brutalist grandeur, though far more religious iconography decorates the walls. Outside of the window is the blue jewel of Xwhee and, hanging above it, the ever-growing network of defensive installations and shipyards. The skeletons of warships, Ssi-Ruuk designs and angular, alien things hang in construction bays and the menacing profiles of turbolaser and ion-cannon emplacements dot the void.
Theraan sits at his desk wearing his dress uniform, a scarce bandoleer with his rank, code cylinders, and medals attached. Datapads are scattered across his desk, maps of the unknown regions, intel reports, foreign manufacturing obligations, entechment efficiencies, and a dozen other topics. He is tapping away quietly at one when the door opens, letting a single beam of orange light into the room.
"Minister Frhel," says Theraan as he looks up, "What's the occasion?"
The Minister, a tall, blue-caste Ssi-Ruuk, steps into the room. "Admiral, I have received reports that the Brown and Gold Castes on Bunduki have begun to whip the natives into some sort of bizarre cult of their own devising," he says, "I feel that this is-"
"Of course!" Theraan rises, throwing a datapad across the room to Frhel. "As you've noticed we've acquired a...variety of new species now that we've begun our expansion. And, disappointingly, besides the humans most of them are useless for our purposes. Terrible entechment efficiencies. With a little luck, our work on the Hounds and, let's face it, a lot of brainwashing, we may actually have a use for them."
"What we may have, Admiral, is a religious heresy."
Theraan waves him off. "You worry too much, minister, this is external theology not internal," he says, "No actual people are going to be affected. The theology works fine."
"I have my doubts, Admiral," replied Frhel.
"As you should! It's experimental, after all," says Theraan, "But it's a pilot project. The Golds will review the theological bits, yes?"
"And if they find it unacceptable?" says Frhel.
"Then you'll have to explain why it's politically necessary, Minister," says Theraan, "Now, unless you have a status report on the Hidden Fortress, I do have work to get back to." Theraan turned back to his work and, about a minute later, looked up to see Frhel standing there, staring at him. Theraan made a shoo-ing motion until he left, and then turned back to his work, making a casual note on what datapad.
Actions:
Cult Time Now.
Outrageously Large Bounty put up for the capture of force using criminals in the wider galaxy and delivery to Ssi-Ruuk proxies. Bounty to be paid upon confirmation. Ky'enai noted as a wanted force using criminal.
Although, for reasons unknown, the Grand Admiral would not act openly against the Empire and would choose to maintain a thin veneer of loyalty for the sake of security, there would be little doubt in the minds of many an Imperial as to just where it was that Josef Grunger's loyalties lay. Considered to be a crude and petty man, much of the Grand Admiral's time since the Battle of Endor had been spent in self-indulgence, pursuing feuds with neighbouring powers, and enriching himself at the Empire's expense, a fact that had not gone unnoticed. Forever seen as little more than an opportunistic jackal who lived only to pick away at the edges of the Empire, there would be many a soul in the Imperial Centre who would look for an excuse, any excuse, to bring the Grand Admiral down and return his wayward territories back into the fold. That he had refused to grant aid when demanded, account for himself in the capital, or that he had been withholding taxes, however, would not be considered enough of an excuse and it would only be when proof was provided of his role in aiding and abetting enemies of the Empire that action would finally be taken.
Proof in hand, delivered by the Mandalorians no less, it would be Grand Moff Zsinj who would have the particular pleasure of putting in action the plan to excise the rot that was the Grand Admiral and put an end to his activities in what the Grand Moff rightfully believed to be his backyard. Spies would be sent into place, contact made with the smarter and more dissatisfied elements of Grunger's dominion, and plans laid for a speedy and hopefully uneventful reclamation of the Grand Admiral's territories while the New Republic was otherwise distracted. With those pieces laid in place, the Grand Moff would strike, labeling the Grand Admiral an Enemy of the Empire and accusing him of masterminding several noteworthy pirate attacks in the region before then moving in with his fleets. Over Gargon, the SSD Iron Fist, the Left One, and some six fleets would engage the bulk of Grand Admiral Grunger's forces at the Battle of Gargon which would go down as the first engagement in which the V-600 would be used while Grunger was otherwise detained on Vjun.
Though the Battle of Gargon would be an unequivocal victory for the Grand Moff, who outstripped the Grand Admiral's forces in every way, shape, and form, it would be noteworthy for the deployment of the aforementioned V-600s which had only recently entered service with the Empire. Renovated Interdictors with the Gravity Wells replaced with Ion Cannons, of a similar make and design to the ones utilised on Hoth, the V-600s would both demonstrate their worth at the Battle of Gargon but also highlight several rather large flaws in the designs. Though the V-600s would disable several ships, it would also be discovered that they were wildly inaccurate, more so than the planetary models, and that the power draw on the cannons themselves had a tendency to cause the V-600s to shut down briefly after firing. In at least one instance, a V-600 would lose life support after firing for several minutes before power was restored and the ship captains would quickly adopt a staggered firing pattern in order to lessen the draw on the reactors.
The Battle of Vjun, on the other hand, would have far less difficulties though it would be far more eventful. Formerly a residence of Lord Vader, who maintained a private residence, named Bast Castle, on the planet's surface, Vjun had been turned into a fortress world by the Grand Admiral out of, remarkably justified, fears that someone was out to get him. Retreating to the fortress shortly after hearing of the order for his arrest, Grunger would hunker down and prepare for the worst, keenly aware of how hopeless outnumbered he was, with his eyes trained towards the acid filled sky as he waited for the hammer to drop. When the hammer did drop, it would not be under Zsinj, who was busy at Gargon, but one of his lieutenants, Captain Adan Dooku, who had been tasked with seeing to Grunger's capture. Taking two fleets with him, Captain Dooku would brush away the few ships remaining in orbit above Vjun and then, under heavy fire, personally lead the ground parties down onto Vjun in emulation of his more infamous cousin.
Down on the surface of Vjun, Captain Dooku would lead his soldiers forward, unabashedly wielding a lightsaber he was, by all accounts, quite skilled with, alongside Dark Troopers which would be deployed for the first time on Vjun. Between Captain Dooku and the Dark Troopers, the Empire would plough through the Grand Admiral's defences, carving up Stormtroopers, and blowing up weapon emplacements, and then finally confront the Grand Amdiral in the large chamber that once served as Lord Vader's seat on Vjun. Having been ordered to take Grunger alive, Captain Dooku would then politely disarm the Grand Admiral, yanking his pistol halfway across the room and into his hand, and then allow his soldiers to detain him and see to it that he was prepared for transportation to the Imperial Centre.
Summary
Grunger captured.
V-600s used over Gargon to mixed effect.
Dark Troopers used on Vjun to great effect.
Captain Dooku demonstrates rather blatant force-sensitivity.
From: Mon Mothma, Head of State, New Republic
General Statement disseminated to the Corellian system
People of Corellia, you are not alone, and you are not forgotten.
For twenty-five years, the Galactic Empire has dreamed itself the master of the Corellian spirit. They have never been, and they never will be.
Corellia suffers at their hands. It was the fires of Imperial ambition and greed that rained upon your world, it is the Imperial machine that took what it wants from Corellia and left you to eke out a life in squalorous misery. It is the Galactic Empire who saw you come to them, seeking the basic dignities of sophonts in the galaxy - food, shelter and medicine - and who gave you the blasters and boots of Stormtroopers in return.
It is by their hand you are forced to live in the ashes of your world. It is they who spent billions of credits on their Star Destroyers, murderous knives that they hang over Corellia and dare to call vessels of mercy.
No matter what further indignities they visit upon you, or by what means they seek to turn you against each other, Corellia and her people do not stand alone.
The New Republic will always take care of its own.
