I think this is the 50th session of Dark Empire that I've run. Achievement Unlocked: Don't Flake.

Important links:

>The story so far (Get up to speed quick!)
https://pastebin.com/54Vfvsff

>Archive
http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?searchall=Dark+Empire

>Pastebin for info dumps
https://pastebin.com/u/Timekiller21

>Twitter feed I use to announce planned game times.
https://twitter.com/DarkEmpireQuest

>This is the map system I use for planning
http://www.swgalaxymap.com/

>And this is a gold mine resource for Star wars info, take with a grain of salt since this universe follows its own continuity.
http://starwars.wikia.com/

>Official political map
http://imgur.com/a/BVqbQ

I allow between ten and twenty minutes for voting depending on the importance of the issue and how divided the vote is. If the vote is tied up, I usually allow an extra five minutes for a tie breaker, and if no one votes, I roll for the tie breaker (The will of the Dark Side).

I always try to incorporate (and encourage!) write ins if they don't violate the spirit of voted decisions, though I may edit or tweak them to fit better.

I also am always open for questions should any arise.

The Mon Cal cruiser you watched being systematically cleared itself had no further use, having been too badly damaged in the fight, her memory banks purged by her crew before you could seize them. Unlike her nearly intact sister ship, this MC80 wouldn't even be suitable to convert to a stripped down bulk freighter.

The Rebellion had been beaten here, and soundly. You found the loss of two cruisers acceptable, even if one was Admiral Lobkin's flagship. You felt the scare was good for him. He'd survived the incident, though if this was a blessing for him or a curse, you hadn't yet decided.

Shortly after the battle had concluded, you'd received a priority message from Director Isard that the Brak Sector had officially collapsed, the last of her ships surrendering after their defeat at the Battle of New Cov. This freed up an estimated ten to twenty rebel capital ships, at least half of which were likely en route to reinforce Corellia. The others were potentially proceeding to another hotspot, either the border with Thrawn and Zsinj or perhaps one of the numerous warlord factions on the Rebel's flank.

Now may be the best chance to dislodge the Rebels from Corellia. At the same time, the forces available to you in the moment had been through heavy combat in the last few days and may not stand up against the enemy arrayed against you.

The decision ultimately lay with you, if you continued to press your advantage and attacked Corellia or called it "good enough" here.


>Strike while the iron is hot! We will attack
>Don't press our luck, we have other concerns
>Let one of my military advisers make the decision, either Zahn or Lobkin

>>1821067
>let's hear what our so called military advisors suggest then make a decision

>>1821125
Supporting

I doubt if we wait we'll get any easier chance to retake it.

>>1821067
> Write in: Let's hear what our so called military advisors suggest then make a decision

>>1821136
We should Strike now we do have a fleet in reserve.

>let's hear what our so called military advisors suggest then make a decision

>writing

While they had done little to endear you to them lately, especially given the debacle at Rendilli and Corellia, it would be best to at least consult with your military experts before making a decision. A holoconfrence with Zahn and Lobkin was arranged within minutes.

"Admirals," you say, "You assessment of the situation?"

Lobkin spoke first, transmitting from the bridge of the captured Star Destroyer, having been rechristened Dread. "Your Highness, we cannot delay and must strike now. Our latest recon reports indicate that the Rebels destroyed Rendilli's orbital dockyards before leaving, if we give them much more time they may do the same at Corellia."

You catch Grand Admiral Zahn cast Lobkin a baleful look before adding his advice, "My recommendation would also be to attack. Unlike Admiral Lobkin, I believe the Rebels intend to hold Corellia given its . . . checkered past. But with the loss of Brak Sector, the Rebels can massively reinforce Corellia if we don't act quickly."

>Write in questions
>We will attack
>We will wait
>Write in

>>1821207
>We will attack

>>1821207
>We will attack

We will be going with Tarkin rigth?

>>1821207
>>We will attack

can we bring in reinforcements while we attack?

>>1821230
Correct

>>1821231
What reinforcements?

Lennox is guarding against Thrawn. Oxtroe and Yazz are wrapping up combat operations on the Inner Rim. You can pull one of these fleets, but they're at least a day away from being able to deploy here. Additionally, it would leave your northern border exposed.

Still a possibility.

>>1821239
No need for re-inforcements. we have 2 SSD the Tarkir and Zahn flagship.

>We will attack

>wrting

>>1821265
Zahn's flagship is at Kuat if I recall. It's not here with you presently.

>>1821280
I know what i meant to say is. Time to use one of our SSD.

The remains of 3rd Fleet come out of Hyperspace right on track, the blue orb of Corellia dead ahead. Near the tangled metallic structure of Corellia's orbital shipyard was the Rebel fleet, glimmering in the sunlight, hanging, motionless nearby.

The Imperial Fleet, backed by the nightmarish, humped shape of Tarkin deploys into battle formation and begins its inexorable advance. This was all it took to break the Rebels confidence. All at once, they turned to flee, clearly intending to give you no chance to harm them. In a race at these distances, the Rebels would reach the jump point before your Star Destroyers could catch them, even the intervention of your Interdictors couldn't stop this retreat, but you could harass them, at least take out some of their rear guard picket ships.

Then, almost as an insult, the Rebel fleet opens fire on the shipyards. Haphazardly blasting away gantries and storage depots. The Corellian orbital facilities were too extensive to be annihilated this way, but at close range, and with no defenses, they stood little chance of avoiding crippling damage.

Imperial fighters and picket ships race ahead to drive off the rebels and stop their destruction of the port. This effort is only partially successful. While the Rebels have technical parity in number of ships, the introduction of your Super Star Destroyers grossly tilts the balance of power.

A trailing Pelta-Class frigate is seized by one of your Star Destroyers, held in place by tractor beams and pulverized by turbolaser fire. Countless Rebel fighters are swatted down by your Lancers and Ties, but it's still not the decisive engagement you hoped for, the Rebels clearly have no intention of fighting you one on one.

Soon enough, they are driven off from the smoldering shipyards and make the jump in staggered waves, the last wave suffering crippling damage from Tarkin's guns causing a rebel Dreadnaught to fail to jump, her drives sputtering and dying before being drawn back in by your tractor beams to be destroyed or boarded.

Without a significant fight, Corellia was back in Imperial hands although of course, this mean that Rebel fleet would live to fight on, potentially joined by her two sister fleets freed up from Brak, and with no intelligence, jumping after her in pursuit could very well lead into a trap, not to mention the fact that their final destination was unclear. Reluctantly, you order the fleet to assume defensive formation around Corellia. Shortly, it was revealed the news was not all bad, the Rebels had been in the process of pacifying Corellia with ground forces when your fleet arrived, and a hasty evacuation left significant amounts of them behind. A fact your landing forces were no exploiting as they dropped down to engage, and if need be, destroy the Rebels on the planet.

This gave you time to focus on the immediate situation, starting with the state of 3rd Fleet

(1/2)

The damage to 3rd Fleet was nearly catastrophic. Just about 50% losses across the board, with equal damage done to its leadership and officer corps. You had had little to replace it with. Gone were the days of bottomless manpower and industrial capacity, now tough choices had to be made.

Conventional wisdom was that 3rd Fleet, even if reinforced with fresh vessels, had been through the wringer and needed to recuperate. Of course, conventional wisdom didn't always apply to real situations.

You had lighter, "auxiliary" fleets that could hold Corellia and the surrounding worlds while 3rd Fleet underwent rest and repairs. With the port facilities at Corellia damaged or destroyed, they would likely need to be withdrawn to Kuat. This also would leave Corellia more vulnerable to attack.

The alternative, was to leave 3rd Fleet in place, supplement them with what you could, and attempt to repair and resupply them on-location. It would take longer and be less thorough than a drydock repair, but would ensure they remained "on the line".


>Yes, they could use some R&R. Replace them with auxiliary ships for now
>No, send in replacement ships, Lobkin will hold.

Quick meta note: Right now, you have only had to deal with what I am now terming "line" units. That is, divisions and combat fleets centered around Imperial II-Class Star Destroyers. The Dark Empire has Four Fleets worth, though through losses, production, and defections, this number fluctuates. What I am adding now is control over "Auxiliary" units. We'll assume these vessels have been present all along. More information on them (probably) later on

>>1821355
>No, send in replacement ships, Lobkin will hold.

And he better not fail a second time.

>>1821355
Can we rotate in auxiliary ships in shifts to bolster the Third Fleet while parts of it recover?

>>1821420
Absolutely! Can be done with support

>>1821423
Then I vote for that.

Congrats on 50 sessions, TK. Back on /tg/ that would have been accompanied with a more impressive thread number.

>>1821428
Thanks! Hey, I'll take what I can get. This started as a way to alleviate boredom on a road trip and recycling some material I'd compiled for a very different game. You guys have made it what it is.Whatever that is.

>No, send in replacement ships, Lobkin will hold.
+
>Rotate out damaged ships with Auxillary ships

>Writing

No, Lobkin would hold. With the threat of Rebel counter attack so high, Corellia simply couldn't be left undefended. You would repair what you could on site, and what you couldn't would be rotated out with Auxillary vessels while it was repaired at Kuat.

And of course you also had to decide for the fate of Admiral Lobkin, the first of your admirals to be defeated in any capacity. He had done much to rebuild his image with his forward thinking plan to deliver payback to the Rebels in the Rock Crab Nebula.

Despite that, his appointment had been conducted for political reasons, a reward for his returning to your service. There were others waiting in the wings. Commander Stoble, in fact may be a good candidate, a loyal, experienced officer. Trier, freshly rescued from the Brak Sector pocket would be a prime choice as well. You'd intended to give Trier command of your next battlefleet, but you could accelerate things. It was also possible to promote one of your many other promising Commanders either from your navy proper, or one of those defected from the crumbling warlords.


>Lobkin will be allowed to serve
>Replace him (Exact choices And Lobkin's fate to follow)

Because someone is going to suggest it: Alana is not a viable choice. She's not the senior commander and hasn't distinguished herself enough to jump out of line. She's not been hugely successful as a division commander.

>>1821471
>>Lobkin will be allowed to serve

>>1821471
>Lobkin will be allowed to serve
He's redeemed himself by winning

>>1821471
>>Lobkin will be allowed to serve

>>1821471
>Lobkin will be allowed to serve
But
>He will have to report to Zahn more regularly until the campaign is over, or he's proven himself

>Because someone is going to suggest it: Alana is not a viable choice. She's not the senior commander and hasn't distinguished herself enough to jump out of line. She's not been hugely successful as a division commander.
Can she be the one to punish Lobkin lewdly?

>>1821516
>Can she be the one to punish Lobkin lewdly?
Support

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>>1821516
>>1821541
You did vote Lobkin was "Allowed to serve"

>Lobkin will be allowed to serve

>writing

>>1821552
>You did vote Lobkin was "Allowed to serve"
With conditions.

>>1821552
Can Alana borrow Tavira's riding crop?

No, Lobkin had nearly redeemed himself with his plan to attack the Rebels at the Rock Crab Nebula. That wasn't to mean that you had forgiven him though. No, Lobkin would serve, but he would do so in a reduced capacity. Namely, the thing you could think of that would hurt him the most: forcing him to report directly to Zahn for the foreseeable future. Such a move would hurt Lobkin's ego and serve as a reminder of his failure while ensuring he continued to do his best.

And, of the planet Corellia, once again restored to Imperial control, it's fate lay in your hands. Corellia was a powerful world, with much away within its own heavily populated system, and the galaxy at large. It also frequently served as a foil to Imperial Center, the maverick, the outsider. Ostensibly a loyal Imperial world, all too many of the Rebellion's best and brightest seemed to hail from Corellia.

Perhaps it was time for Corellians to suffer the sins of their fathers. It would be easy to lay waste to the world as a warning to others who would hope for change. You could also simply reduce their autonomy as a way to motivate them. Increased conscription, martial law, a fresh Moff running the show.

Then again, maybe all they needed was inspiration. If you showed them exactly what was at stake, that the Empire was on the cusp of victory or defeat, then maybe they would fall in line.

You might also be over thinking it. Corellia was an outsider, and would remain such, no matter what you did. Perhaps it was best to leave them as is, so long as they continue to process loyalty.


>Punish them (bombardment)
>Find a new way to motivate them (harsh rule)
>Inspire them (Visit and speech)
>They will be fine as is

>>1821627
So long as you degenerates don't start asking for hand holding and head pats

>>1821630
>>Punish them (enslavement)
Corelians are never going to change better to enslave the population, use them to rebuild the shipyard and then resettle the world with loyal imperial citizens.

>>1821630
>Inspire them (Visit and speech)

Ironicaly the rebels have given us the perfect ammo to end their political advantage. With then blowing up Corellian facilitys they just show what they truly are. Time to put our political face.

>>1821636
All I want is hugs.

>>1821630
>>Inspire them (Visit and speech)

>>1821630
>Find a new way to motivate them (harsh rule)
>Inspire them (Visit and speech)
Have their Moff be from the Deep Core or Alsakan, one of the more loyal worlds of the Imperial "heartland."

>Inspire them (Visit and speech)

Not quite enough support to punish them or institute harsh rule.

>writing

>>1821636
>spoiler

This is a blue board TK such things not even /d/ dare to post.

>>1821704
>Assassinated JFK style in the middle of the speech

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The Corellians would likely continue to be tiresome to some degree, but you were careful to note there were some true loyalists among their number, the Tierce family for instance. You would use the Rebellion against them. The destruction of the Corellian port reveals the Rebel's true colors and can be exploited.

Almost as soon as the world as the pacified, great columns of Rebel prisoners herded off to prison camps in the Corellian countryside, you traveled to the world's surface with an elite bodyguard and began a tour of the world, spending a significant amount of time in the capital of Coronet City. Corellia, you decided, would be loyal once more.

Relief was ushered down from orbit to the areas of the world damaged by the fighting, pre-fab housing and a basic living stipend was provided to the employees of the orbital docks who had lost their jobs, recruitment posters plastered on every wall.

Corellia IS Imperial, they read.

"The true face of the Rebellion has been revealed," you say, your face blown up on holoprojectors across the planet and across the system. "This Rebellion doesn't seek peace, it seeks war. This is the Rebellion that sought to enslave you, to subjugate you, to destroy your way of life. Join me," you say with a youthful smile, "Help me help you. Together we can reclaim this galaxy as our own. Together we can stand in the face of chaos and bloodshed that is the Rebellion and turn them back. We stand on the precipice of everything, so close to destruction and the uncertainty that comes with it. Choose justice. Choose Order. Choose . . . Peace."

(1/2)

When you left Corellia just a few days later, you'd heard recruitment numbers for the military were up across the board.

With the Corellian shipyards so heavily damaged, and the Rendilli yards thoroughly destroyed, your production was going to suffer accordingly. Granted, Byss, Foerost, and Kuat each outproduced both of those worlds significantly, but each had its strong suits. Rendilli was one of the few planets capable of building Imperial-Class Star Destroyers, and even larger designs, and Corellia was home to a number of highly capable design firms.

Of course, repair and reconstruction efforts are underway, but they will take some time to finish, which means lost productivity. There was, however, an alternative proposed.

Both Duro and Nubia, neighboring systems to Corellia, were in possession of significant starship production facilities which the Empire had mostly left alone, content to let these worlds supply the insatiable demand for civilian starship production. Now though, their shipyards could be nationalized, converted from civilian production to military, and used to bolster your naval might. It wouldn't completely make up for the loss of Rendilli and Corellia, but it would help ease the burden on your remain shipyards. Of course, it would also risk angering and alienating the Duro and Nubians, two groups that already had little love for the Empire, and it may serve to drive them to support the Rebellion.

>Nationalize the shipyards, they will serve the Empire
>There is no need, let them be

>>1821753
>>Nationalize the shipyards, they will serve the Empire

potentially offer to lease the shipyards for the duration of the war?

>>1821753
Nubia is a human world, so I'm not too keen on nationalizing their shipyards.

Duros are a common sight in the underworld, but how prevalent are they in the Rebellion?

>>1821753
>>Nationalize the shipyards, they will serve the Empire
Rather than take them over, we should pull a Roosevelt.

Invite the leaders of these shipyards to a meeting, and basically tell them what they need to be working on, and who should work with who. They can stay in power, but they must supply a certain number of units, and there will always be a buyer for them (us)

>>1821753
>>Nationalize the shipyards, they will serve the Empire
WE COMMUNIST NOW

>>1821773
>seconded

>>1821753
Actually, lease the shipyards, if possible, this >>1821771

>>1821753
I support this idea: >>1821773

Let's talk about the real deal. MONEY!

>>1821772
>Duros in the Rebellion

They exist, but not in numbers like the Mon Calamari or Bothans. Duros are independently minded and have suffered under the Empire, but their population is mostly dispersed.

>>1821805
Hey, TK! TK!

Since we're here can we interact with it? It's in the Corellia System!

Let's blow up Centerpoint Station.

>>1821773
Reading this as subtle nationalization, because the owners/leaders will see it this way.

"Go ahead and keep making yachts, but also make 10 escort frigates a year or else. Thanks!"

But it won't be obvious to the common man basically. It will appear as if Nubia and Duro suddenly became very patriotic.

>Lease shipyards
>>1821771
>>1821783

>Pressure the leadership of Nubian and Durese companies to work for the Empire
>>1821773
>>1821780
>>1821802

>Space communism
>>1821775


>Roosevelt Plan

>Writing

>>1821842
You're a mad man! Centerpoint is a historical/archeological marvel! Plus it never hurt anyone and is home to colonists!

>>1821855
>colonists!
Don't you mean squatters? And who knows how many Rebels are hiding on it?

>>1821872
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Csj7vMKy4EI

>Empire will blow up Centerpoint Station

>>1821855
> It will appear as if Nubia and Duro suddenly became very patriotic.


Wow this is even better then.

Duro and Nubia couldn't be left to their own devices, not in a wartime crisis. Plans were set in motion to resolve this peaceably, and without the messy bureaucratic entanglements out outfight nationalization. The major shipwrights would receive an ultimatum, take a tax cut in exchange for allowing Imperial "advisers" to dictate production quotas, or endure a heavy tax penalty, one heavy enough to be crippling to any profit margin. The choice was obvious.

By putting pressure privately on the leadership you avoided any public show of Imperial might, they wouldn't dare step out of line and publicly reveal the plan, not unless they wanted to get the heavy end of the hammer. Granted, it would likely earn you some enemies among Duro and Nubia's star ship producers, but you had bigger fish to fry.

You delegate this task to Mas Amedda and the local Moffs to handle and negotiate. A few handfuls of frigates and light cruisers would certainly help out.

With the situation on the Southern border of your galaxy taken care of, you merely had to decide the next course for Tarkin and your personal escort fleet.

>Take me back to the Palace on Imperial Center
>I will remain in Corellian orbit to dissuade further Rebel attacks
>Continue to roam my Empire at random

>>1821894
>Continue to roam my Empire at random
What are Sedriss and Cythera up to?

>>1821902
Cythera of course just finished offing Yzu successfully, otherwise stay tuned :D

>>1821894
>Take me back to the Palace on Imperial Center

Time to go there and mess a bit with the dark side enough of this distractions.

>>1821894
>>Continue to roam my Empire at random

if not then what's the damn point of being Emperor damnit!

>>1821894
>Continue to roam my Empire at random

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>>1821924
>if not then what's the damn point of being Emperor damnit!

>Continue to roam my Empire at random

>Writing

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Still not looking forward to the cloistered monotony of Imperial Palace, you opt to continue to roam, a course is set for the Inner Rim, you feel the urge to visit the lifeless ruin of Caamas .

The chaotic conflict around the Corellian system left behind, you once again turn your attention inwardly. Director of Intelligence Yssane Isard is just beginning her scheduled intelligence briefing with you. She appears in holographic form, delivering a curt bow, presumably transmitting from the safe obscurity of her personal fortress, the Executor-Class Star Destroyer Lusankya, entombed deep beneath the cityscape of Imperial Center.

"Highness."

"Director," you reply, "I'm looking forward to your briefing, but I have to say you have much to answer for."

Isard blinks surprise, visible to you through her carefully controlled facial expression. "What would I have to answer for?" she asks.

"The Rebellion-" you spit the word, "somehow managed- undetected- to assemble a force large enough strike the port facilities at Corellia and Rendilli. Something Intelligence should have known about."

Isard cringes, just slightly, "My apologies, Highness. My forces are stretched thin as it is just with our internal monitoring duties, let alone keeping an eye on Thrawn, the Rebellion, and the various warlord-"

You silence her with a hand. "Admiral Lobkin gave me similar excuses. They won't help you any more than they helped him."

Isard nods, slowly. "We will double our efforts." Then, she does something few people in your ruling council, let alone your empire, were brave enough to do. She corrects you. "Though I should remind you that much of the duty for monitoring our borders lies with military reconnaissance. Scoutships, fighter patrols, and probe droids. Forces under the control of Grand Admiral Zahn."

"A situation that will be looked into," you reply with finality, "Now, for your report . . . ?"

"We have taken interest in Thrawn's maneuvers," Isard says, launching smoothly into her briefing. "Specifically a force amassing at Contruum, near the Rebel's border and near Zsinj's space. It seems likely that Thrawn either intends to capitalize on the Rebellions focus on us, or finish off Zsinj at net opportunity."

(1/2)

She straightens herself a bit and adds, "Our information isn't as complete as we would like, but I can speculate on possibilities."

"Go on."

"Zsinj's force took quite a beating against Thrawn, which is hardly surprising. I see things proceeding in one of just a few ways. One: Zsinj caves and joins Thrawn as a junior partner. Two: Zsinj defects to the Rebellion in an effort to preserve some of his power. Three: He returns to the fold and either makes overtures to us, or accepts our overtures to him. Lastly: he collapses, spectacularly, and crumbles into little more than an Outer Rim pirate."

"Why then," you say, "Have we not made such overtures to him? Zsinj's territory and forces are not insignificant."

Isard smiles, clearly having anticipated your question, "Purely because in adjoining with Zsinj, we risk alienating Thrawn. Thrawn clearly had designs on Zsinj's territory, and in letting Zsinj rejoin, we are all but daring Thrawn to attack. There is a fear that we are choosing sides at this point, and I didn't want to risk interfering with such delicate political situations as that."

It wasn't a surefire guarantee that Zsinj would rejoin, but it was true he still wielded significant power, his territory including the wealthy Corporate Sector, and his flagship being one of the last Super Star Destroyers in the galaxy. It was also true that Zsinj shared a long border with Thrawn, and served as something of a 'release valve' for the Grand Admiral to focus on. Taking that away might be seen as bottling him up, and could cause issues down the line. Of course, this was also assuming Thrawn ultimately, was your enemy and would never return to you.

>Reach out to Zsinj, propose that he return to us
>We will let the situation develop and not rule anything out
>Zsinj can rot. Let nature take its course
>Write in

Well guess is time to force choke Zahn a little bit.

>>1822064
It's not Zahn's place to watch beyond the borders to potential Rebel staging areas.

>>1822058
>We will let the situation develop and not rule anything out

>>1822058
>We will let the situation develop and not rule anything out

The rebels will most likely try to take as many worlds as they can from Zinj and thus making Thraw have to deal with the rebels. In the end Zsinj defeat is what will give us the bridge to rebuild our empire.

>>1822058
>>Reach out to Zsinj, propose that he return to us
Thrawn wont rejoin us, with Zsinj and our own forces pushing thrawn on both fronts we will win

>>1822058
>We will let the situation develop and not rule anything out

He's too far away to properly control, it'd just shackle us to a man with a broken leg and wolves closing in.

What we should do is watch and wait for him to collapse and time it with an attack on the Rebellion.

>We will let the situation develop and not rule anything out

>writing

Meant to add:

An updated political map is in the works, I don't want to fiddle with it too much since borders are changing quickly

>>1822164
>spoiler

truly the work of a real emperor.

"Zsinj is no concern" you reply, "Allying ourselves with him will only hinder us. Let the Rebels eat away at him, we'll strike when Zsinj can do us no more good."

"Very well," Isard says. "I'm also curious where you would have me focus my efforts with the southern warlords all but wiped out."

Isard was right that her resources were limited, the post-Endor collapse had done no favors to the once burgeoning Intelligence branch. Capable and loyal agents couldn't be mass produced the way Tie Fighters and Stormtroopers could be. That said, concentrating them on a single target or single area was the best guarantee they would turn up useful information.


>Focus on Thrawn, we must know more
>The Rebellion is our main concern
>Let's discover what we can on Warlord Zsinj
>Write in

>>1822179
>The Rebellion is our main concern
Assign some Dark Siders to Zsinj.

>>1822179
>Focus on Thrawn, we must know more

>>1822179
>The Rebellion is our main concern

With what they just did they have prove to be a bigger threat and we still need to find Luke and his ilk.

>>1822179
>The Rebellion is our main concern

>>1822179
>Focus on Thrawn, we must know more
Rebs are not a problem

>The Rebellion is our main concern

>writing

It's half written now, forgot to say I started already.

>>1822257
That excited that we are about to go and crush some rebels?

"The Rebellion is your primary concern," you say, "These latest attacks demonstrate they are more capable than we thought. I will not tolerate a repeat of Corellia and Rendilli." Your tone is dangerously cool.

Isard bows slightly, "Yes, your Highness. I'll start information gathering at once."

"And I want Luke Skywalker found." You let it go without saying that he was the reason your empire fell last time, virtually single handedly the son of Anakin Skywalker had been responsible."

"It will be done," Isard says, her voice confident, "There's nowhere the Jedi can hide from us. I already have a lead on some rumors my men have heard, that Luke's Jedi are starting to disperse."

A troubling thought, that one Jedi could soon become many. Skywalker was powerful the last time you'd faced him, you wondered how much more powerful he might be now.

"And what about Lord Cythera's operation on Bespin?" you ask, changing topics.

"A complete success," Isard replies, almost reluctantly. "Yzu's coalition of Moffs, unsurprisingly, collapsed after his 'mysterious' death," Isard says. "My sources tell me that each blames the other for killing Yzu, they likely don't believe it, but it's a convenient excuse for them to fight one another. Most of his forces have been destroyed in these clashes, but some have fled to us, about enough to outfit a line division."

(1/2)

>>1822256
>Rebs are not a problem
Because it was Thrawn's red-painted ISDs and MC80's which took Rendili and Corellia.

A slow grin creeps across your face, "Excellent. And what of Moff Tavira's integration into the Empire?"

Isard's expression sours, "Moff Tavira has been doing an excellent job, according to my agents of reintegrating. The 'Invids' have taken to their new roles as Imperial officers, and the first shipment of warships and equipment have arrived. Along with this equipment and personal I ensured we delivered a healthy number of intelligence operatives and even a few Komissars. It seems that Leonia has cracked down on her people to a degree as well, any of the gangs that did not integrate was liquidated, and any of them that couldn't handle military life was disposed of or transferred out. She's left with a dedicated cadre of loyalists, mostly ex-military types it seems. Interestingly, she has expanded her foothold in the wake of the Eriadu Authority's collapse, seizing a few, minor worlds."

"Delvardus's faction is collapsing?" you ask.

Isard beams, "If my reports are correct, Delvardus is dead." she transmits a few reconnaissance images of a battle in progress, primarily showcasing the destruction of a jet-black Executor-Class. "He died with the destruction of his flagship at the Battle of Yag'Dhul, along with most of his forces. The upstart Fondorian Faction was similarly damaged. Between the two of them, two Line Divisions have defected to us, leaving both factions shadows of their former strength."

"Good," you cackle, "Good."

"In the wake of its collapse, we've identified a Colonel Cronus as the de facto leader of Eriadu now, he still has about as dozen capital ships at his disposal."


>Let's offer him a deal. Cronus can return, or share Delvardus's fate
>Deal with Cronus like we dealt with Yzu (Assassinate him)
>Let him sweat, there's no need to rush things

>>1822259
I'm excited about everything you guys do, it's either a good idea which is fun, or a terrible idea which is also fun :D

>>1822276
>Let's offer him a deal. Cronus can return, or share Delvardus's fate

>>1822276
>>Let's offer him a deal. Cronus can return, or share Delvardus's fate


He must see the way the cookie is crumbling. Soon my masterpastry will be complete.
All will soon know the power of the dark chocolate.

I might be hungry.

>>1822276
>Let him sweat, there's no need to rush things

He will be way to busy trying to keep things from collapsing. Then we need to start to slowly undermine his attemps until he's desperate enough. Besides we need some time to pass before going to the guy and ask him to join.

>>1822289
>>1822298
Let's not raise any suspicion toward us.

>>1822276
>Let him sweat, there's no need to rush things
If he wants to submit, he must beg for mercy. We will not offer him a deal first

>>1822298
I'll change my vote to
>Let him sweEt, there's no need to rush things

I do want him to join us, I don't want to insinuate that we had a hand in his predecessors fall.

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>>1822314
>Desert puns

>>1822322
Do you not like sand?

Is it coarse and rough?

Does it get everywhere?

>>1822322
make that dessert.

>Let him sweat, there's no need to rush things

>writing

>>1822276
>>Let's offer him a deal. Cronus can return, or share Delvardus's fate

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"Excellent. Colonel Cronus can learn the rigors of command. I'm sure he has his hands full, soon he'll be pleading to be readmitted to the Empire."

"I'll be sure we keep him in our sights," Isard says."

***

I don't have a snappy line to end on, we've got a bunch more big picture decisions to do, and I ran out of time, so I'm gonna call it there for now.

Thanks for stopping by guys, I'll be running again on Thursday, 7EST (11UTC) and hopefully I'll see all of you there. I've got big things in store for everyone.

Follow that tweeter because it makes me happy:

https://twitter.com/DarkEmpireQuest

Next session find out about Admiral Trier, the proposed 5th Fleet, construction timetables, the next military campaigns, and the long-awaited Dac Raid. That's not even mentioning Alana's stuff!


Any questions for me?

Also, I have a question for you, the players. Is Lobkin for hand-holding or war-making?

>>1822373
Dam lot's of stuff to do. Thanks for the run TK see you Thursday.

Lobkin for being punishment.

>>1822373
Thanks for running TK, seemed kinda short, but maybe it's just me.

>Spoiler
Headpats.

>>1822373
[Spoiler]Love making[/spoiler]

>>1822373
>Also, I have a question for you, the players. Is Lobkin for hand-holding or war-making?

All's fair in hand war.
He's gotta step it up for hand-holding, I've always seen it more as political and ambition if there was marriage rather than anything personal.

>>1822408
Marriage? We're talking about a casual semi-professional relationship more akin to a daughter than a lover.

>>1822393
My pleasure! See you then, Anon.

>>1822399
>A little short for a stormtrooper

Time flies when you're having fun?
Not sure. I ran the usual length of time had 10-20 min voting periods and took 10-20 minutes writing. I always feel like these are too short, wish I had more time.

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"Also of note, our Storm Commando team was totally successful in retrieving Admiral Trier," Isard oozes pride as she speaks, "My understanding after debriefing the team leader is that there was some initial reticence on Trier's part, but when reminded that his duty to the Empire came first, Trier came willingly."

"And what is your assessment on Trier's mental state and reliability?" you asked, knowing you could glean this information from Trier himself if you'd like, but wanting to test your Intelligence Director's ability to read people.

"He's a somber man," Isard say, a hint of disdain in her voice, "But dedicated. The retrieval team leader said that Trier's last words before boarding the shuttle were addressed to no one in particular, 'We'll come back'."

"You've done well, Director."

"Thank you, Highness. Admiral Trier is being held for debrief on Tarkin's Fang, should you wish to speak with him yourself. Once he's debriefed, we intend to move him to Foerost where 5th Fleet will be assembling."

>Yes, I'll have my captain set a course
>No, I trust your assessment

>>1827644
>No, I trust your assessment

>>1827644
>>No, I trust your assessment
He wants revenge. He's like our little MacArther

Lets just hope he's more a bit more capable

>>1827644
>No, I trust your assessment

Let Isard beam with happyness.

>>1827644
>No, I trust your assessment

>No, I trust your assessment

Choice is pretty clear

>Writing

>>1827674
Can't wait to read Isard's reaction.

>>1827684
She's just sopping

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It was nigh impossible to fluster a woman as ruthless as Isard, but you suppose that like attracted like.

"That won't be necessary, I trust your judgement, Ysanne."

Her lip curls just that much more, as much of a genuine smile as you were likely to get form Iceheart. She hesitates a moment longer than she would normally before speaking.

"Thank you, Highness." her eyes sparkle, one molten, the other arctic.

It pays to have a spymaster who admires you as deeply as she does, it makes the threat of betrayal so much less, you think.

"Besides," you continue, "It seems, as you say, as if Admiral Trier already knows his duty."

"I would say that assessment is accurate," Isard says.

The thought of 5th Fleet reminded you that you had some more business to settle with your Grand Admiral.

"Thank you, Director. I expect you'll handle your assignments with skill."

"I'd have it no other way," she replies as you kill the channel.

Yes, Grand Admiral Zahn was needed to discuss your plans for the future of your fleet, in fact, it may be best, you decided, to meet with him personally, Camaas would have to wait.

A click of a button signals your bridge, "Captain, set a course for Kuat. Best speed."

Be patient, long post

While the security arrangements of changing ships normally meant you preferred to stay aboard Tarkin, in this case, you couldn't pass up an opportunity to invade Dan's personal sanctum, the Super Star Destroyer Intimidator. It had been stolen by the Yevetha in their mutiny, and successfully recaptured by now-admiral Lennox, a feat that played no small part in securing his promotion. The ship bore no scars of that incident now, a pristine white hull glittered in the sunlight, it looked as fresh and new as Executor did at the time it was launched.

You shuttled over to Intimidator with the usual fanfare that accompanied such a trip, a full regiment of Stormtroopers and their assault vehicles were at attention alongside blocks of pilots and crew, and long lines of grey and black-clad officers.

Waiting at the foot of the landing ramp was Grand Admiral Zahn, standing out in his stark white uniform, looking typically uneasy, a look that is matched by the chaos and uncertainty you felt within him all atop a profound sense of inadequacy. Fine, let Zahn feel insufficient if it spurred him to work harder. Beside and just behind him was a robed figure.

Zahn and the robed figure both bow to you as you approach. "Welcome aboard, Highness," Zahn says, his voice not betraying his nervousness.

"Thank you, Grand Admiral. Lord Thimram, my friend, I'm pleased to see you've settled in well."

Savuud Thimram, Zahn's Komissar, and one of your personal trainees in the Dark Side nodded to you, "Thank you, Master."

You set off at a brisk walk, Zahn and Thimram following along in your wake, your personal bodyguard, a pair of masked blackguards, a pair of hulking Sentinels, and a platoon of Deathtroopers, marching along behind.

"I've finished speaking with Director Isard about the debacle at Rendilli and Corellia," you say.

Zahn tenses internally, "Yes, congratulations on the victory at Corellia and Rock Crab, I'd-"

You cut off Zahn, "I don't want your adulation, Admiral. Such an ambush of our forces should have never been possible in the first place." You look to Zahn, "How did this happen?"

Zahn shakes his head, "Imperial Intelligence gave us no forewarning of any Rebel activity, information on the enemy has been sparse-"

"Director Isard is of the opinion that the Navy is responsible for this lapse in information," you add.

"Director Isard . . ." Zahn repeats, "Your Highness, we had local hyperlanes monitored, but the fleet is stretched thin as it is, we've come so far so quickly, we simply can't watch every border system at once."

A straight, solid, if disappointing answer. "And how to rectify this shortcoming?" you ask.

(2/3)

File: GalacticMap2.png (1.71 MB, 2568x3016)

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Zahn pauses a few heartbeats before answering, "We need more ships. I've stripped every local fortress, planetary fleet, and sector defense force for available warships, our shipyards are at maximum production capacity, we've simply outpaced our natural ability to replace ships while also expanding your navy. The loss of Rendilli and Corellians production capacity only exacerbates this problem."

You knew the work was proceeding as quickly as possible, you'd seen reports of your slave laborers being worked to death, of machinery breaking down from the workload.


This means tough choices will have to be made regarding the replenishment of your forces if you were going to be able to keep expanding while also replacing losses. Especially with the creation of 5th fleet on the horizon.

You'd received reinforcements to begin assembling this fleet in the form of small clusters of deserters from the collapsing warlords to your south, though not as many as you'd hoped, many of their ships were destroyed and resources spent fighting one another for control over their crumbling rump states. In all, three divisions, from Yzu's former territory and the Eriadu Authority, split by civil war. Zahn's plans for the build up to his proposed "Operation Shadow Hand" was counting on fresh, intact fleets from the various independent warlords to bolster your numbers, and this simply wasn't occurring.

"Work is underway to supplement our armed forces," you reply, "Recruitment is up, conscription efforts have begun in the Inner Rim, and we are laying down fresh hulls near constantly. There is no other way to get new ships."

"I understand," Zahn says, " But it won't be enough to launch Shadow Hand on schedule. We simply can't, not without the requisite forces."

"What exactly is required?" You ask with a frown.

"For us to being our pre-Shadow Hand campaign, at least two more battle fleets and two more auxiliary fleets, more if possible. It takes everything we have just to hold our current border."

Additionally, you knew that Moff Tavira had been promised a division of Star Destroyers to use against the Rebellion.

You couldn't fulfill all of these obligations and flesh out the damage parts of your fleet, though you did have "Auxiliary" ships with which to fill out your ranks. These were primarily things like escort frigates, Dreadnaughts, Victory-class cruisers, and old Imperial I-class star destroyers in a few lucky cases.

Normally these forces made up either planetary or sector fleets, or one of the handful of Auxiliary fleets that were patrolling your borders. But in a pinch could be used to "top off" your own forces.

At least the Star Destroyer you'd captured had been expunged of the enemy and returned to service. It would help offset some of your losses.


>Put off Moff Tavira's ships and replace current losses with auxiliary ships, continue to assemble 5th Fleet
>Put plans for Trier's 5th Fleet on hold, use those ships to replace our losses instead
>Write in

>>1827714
>spoiler

Oh boy. Aldo making a surprise visit to our admiral on his ship. This is going to be good. It was his duty to take care of our borders and so he was the one that allowed that rebel attack. We can't have that now can we?

>>1827719


>Put off Moff Tavira's ships and replace current losses with auxiliary ships, continue to assemble 5th Fleet

>>1827719
>>Put plans for Trier's 5th Fleet on hold, use those ships to replace our losses instead
We'll have to use this time to catch our breath, unfortunately

>>1827719
>>Put off Moff Tavira's ships and replace current losses with auxiliary ships, continue to assemble 5th Fleet
The weaker and damaged divisions should be used to defend quieter sectors while the new and reinforced fleets carry out Shadow Hand

>>1827719
>Put plans for Trier's 5th Fleet on hold, use those ships to replace our losses instead

We need more ships a spread out and thin empire will become a easy target for everyone else. Hopefully the rebels, will be busy with the new happenings and Thrawn is keepping Zinj in check.

Oh look it's a tie. No not the figther guys.

I think we should give Tavira a bunch of fast cruisers instead of a whole Star Destroyer Division. She will serve as a raider not an Admiral, she does not need capital ships to do her duty, especially when every single ship is needed for the war effort.

>>1827744
Well said.

Giving a few more minutes for tie breaking

>>1827776
I agree with that. Her role is to be a raider not a front figther. She will receive the ships she needs but with a small delay. We can't give her ships if we are attacked again. Oh we should also punish Zahn for his failure. He should have brought this to us earlier.

I really hate to randomly decide on such a crucial decision. Five minutes and I roll the dice.

>>1827796
Sometimes it can't be avoided TK.

>>1827776
My problem with this is that she did whip her area into shape very well. If we could add something to sweeten this, like a bonus of credits or something, then sure. Maybe one of our stealth cruisers.

Rolled 1 (1d2)

>>1827803
True in this case
1 > Build 5th fleet
2 > Delay 5th fleet

>Put off Moff Tavira's ships and replace current losses with auxiliary ships, continue to assemble 5th Fleet

>Writing

>>1827807
Dont mind giving her a stealth cruiser. We need every star destroyer on frontline duty, not raiding

>>1827813
TK can we use the Yvetha to expand our navy/port effectiveness?

>>1827820
In what way specifically?

Their numbers are fairly low, so they're used mostly in a very technical role rather than raw labor. Right now, but your edict, they are confined to the Byss shipyards, if their population limits were relaxed and they were spread out, it may aid other shipyards, but you would also be increasing your reliance on them.

>>1827824
Nah forget about it then.

>>1827820
No, they rebelled once and we won't take another chance. That's why they're confined on butt end of a system.

"We'll have to delay on our promise to reinforce Moff Tavira with a Line Division. We can't spare the ships I'm afraid," you say. "5th Fleet's construction can't be delayed."

"Do you think Tavira will accept this?" Zahn asks, tone skeptical.

"She has no choice," you scoff, "But to sweeten the pot, we'll toss her a few more auxiliary vessels and one of our Korribans to give her a bit more incentive."

Zahn looks poised to object for a moment before nodding, "Very good, your Highness. But, what about the losses in 3rd Fleet?"

"They'll have to make do for now. Some older vessels will tide them over for now." It's not ideal, but you see little choice in the matter. This means 5th Fleet will be assembled shortly, primarily composed of defectors from Yzu's coalition and the Eriadu Authority, it wouldn't quite be up to combat standard for a while, especially since its fighter component would need to be updated, but it would give you a bit more strategic flexibility. And, of course, Trier would have a command.

"There also is the matter of production schedules," Zahn says, "Most of our yards are capable of producing picket ships and frigates and the like, expanding our Auxiliary forces is no issue, it's our line ships that will take time. Our switch over to the modern fighter lines is complete, so we can finally start fresh construction in earnest. In addition to catching up with replacing our losses, we have plenty of berths to fill with new ships. I know there was talk about new command ships for the fleets . . ."

New Super Star Destroyers was tempting, you'd seen their profound impact at the Battle of the Rock Crab Nebula, although you'd also seen their vulnerability at Endor when faced with the incessant stinging of Rebel fighter-bombers.

Executor-Class ships were a bit expensive for mass production, but based on the resources free, two more could be constructed, likely as command ships for Yazz and Oxtroe. They could also be supplemented with a small escort group a piece.

Alternatively, the smaller Bellator-Class could make a more cost effective command ship for your admirals, with your ability to produce four simultaneously , you could outfit one for each of your fleets.

Of course, raw numbers could also be increased with sixteen Imperial II-Class Star Destroyers able to be laid down across your ports at Foerost, Byss, and Kuat to outfit a fresh Battle Fleet.

>Build two Executor-Class and escorts
>Build four Bellator-Class and escorts
>Build 16 fresh ISDs and escorts (1 Battle Fleet)
>Write in

>>1827833
>Build two Executor-Class and escorts

1 per each fleet

>>1827835
1 per each fleet

At this point, you have 5 fleets and 1 executor which is not assigned to any fleet, so you'd need 5 executors to get there

>>1827839
I know, hence Why I said 1 per-each fleet. So each combat fleet gets 1 of the two currently. Cause we are keeping ours.

>>1827833
>Build four Bellator-Class and escorts
>>1827835
You won't get one for each fleet that way

>>1827833
>>Build four Bellator-Class and escorts

>>1827833
>Build four Bellator-Class and escorts

We can even give these to Tavira once they are ready. These are ships for speed. We also saw what a single ion can do with our ISD's

>>1827863
Too expensive and powerful for a pirate with dubious loyalty.

>Build four Bellator-Class and escorts

>writing

>>1827880
Yeah you are right. We are already pretty fidget in giving her a ISD.

"We need a heavy striking arm for our navy," you say, "Something to instill fear in the Rebellion and demonstrate that the Empire is here to stay."

"Executors, your Highness?" Zahn sounds a bit disappointed.

"No, Admiral. For now, you will have the honor of retaining the only one. They are not quite as awe-inspiring, but I feel a handful of Bellators will do the trick as command ships nicely.

Zahn's expression lightens and he bobs his head once, "Yes, of course. I think they would make wonderful additions."

"Then see to it."

With your old Tie /Lns all but replaced with the new Tie /Ads, your bottleneck is no longer in fighter production, but in pilot numbers and training. When the old Ties were little more than expendable, manned missiles, you gave little concern to the skill of your pilots, but the Tie Avengers were a different beast.

Pilot training is having to be totally overhauled from the ground up, emphasizing individual skill and wingmate tactics over wave attacks and numbers emphasis. It would take time for pilot skill to catch up to fighter capabilities, though in many cases they were already on par with, or superior to their Rebel opponents.

This dramatic shift in tactics and planning has encouraged talk from some mavericks in the navy that the Empire should take a more fighter/carrier-centric stance, similar to the Rebellion. Adopting such a stance would be a dramatic departure from traditional Imperial doctrine, one that would likely necessitate ultimately redesigning your navy and how it's deployed.

This was a stance you knew Zahn wouldn't bring up to you, being a staunch traditionalist and advocate of the "big-gun" navy. Fighters, in his view, were for keeping the enemy's fighters at bay while Star Destroyers pummeled their cruisers at range.

In fact, you only knew about these proposed changes from word filtered up through the Komissars, proposals made by junior officers that caught their ear, it more than likely wouldn't be a popular move with your senior officer corps.


>Mention the idea to Zahn
>Tell Zahn the navy will begin planning for the shift
>Our current doctrine is sufficient

>>1827904
>>Our current doctrine is sufficient
Everyone is expandable, TIE pilots should not think or act like fucking heroes.

>>1827904
>>Our current doctrine is sufficient
I see no reason why we should change, unless a need arises

>>1827904
>Our current doctrine is sufficient

>>1827904
>Tell Zahn the navy will begin planning for the shift

>>1827904
>>Our current doctrine is sufficient

>Our current doctrine is sufficient

>writing

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There's no reason to change what's been working so far. Your Tie fighter pilots were expendable, and shouldn't be allowed to forget it. Each member of your military was another interchangeable part of a much larger machine.

The winding course through Intimidator ended on the ship's map room, command staff striding to and fro while droids wheeled between computer terminals, holoprojections of various systems and sectors filling every available space. All eyes flitted to you as you followed Zahn to the massive holopad at the rear of the cabin, currently displaying a map of the galaxy's core regions.

"As I mentioned, your Highness, our navy is stretched pretty taut, with the anticipated reinforcements from the southern warlords much less than expected, we've been forced to improvise," his tone makes his disappointment clear. "To that end, I advise against any significant military campaigns, I would prefer to let our navy recuperate and build up. I do have some smaller impact campaigns that could be launched, relying primarily on Auxiliary vessels, we shouldn't need more than a single combat fleet for either, though running both could prove to be a logistical drain we can't afford."

You watch as Zahn focuses the holomap while he talks.

"First, an expansion north, with Colla IV and Telti being our principle goals. Much of this space seems to have been abandoned by the Rebels in their withdrawal, though they likely left a picket force behind. Unless of course, they intend to launch a counter attack."

You see the plan indicated with burning lines.

"Either Admiral Oxtroe or Admiral Yazz is in place to execute this plan," Zahn finishes.

"And your other plan?" you ask.

Zahn takes a deep breath, "With Corellia secure, we can expand into the backwater Deep Core stretch to the south. Abregado-rae would be the goal, a low-level starport that would make a satisfactory 'jumping off point' for any strike toward Fondor. There should be little, if any, Rebel presence in this area, but there may be some small sector warlords. The biggest drawback would be the risk of a Rebel counter attack at Corellia cutting them off or otherwise hampering them."

Zahn cleared his throat, "There is one other plan, one that I am not totally on board with given our weakened state, but Admiral Yazz has proposed it to me. A full-scale strike at Exodeen and Quellor to the east of Corellia. These worlds are Rebel strongholds, and likely the staging bases for their last strikes against us. These worlds are likely to be well defended and may be reinforced now that Brak Sector is occupied. It could prove a tough nut to crack. Despite this, Yazz believes it would take the pressure off of us, by keeping the Rebellion on the defensive."


>Rebuild, rest, and refit
>Expand in the north, to Colla IV and Telti
>Expand into the Deep Core backwater toward Abraegado-Rae
>Full scale attack on Exodeen and Quellor
>Write in

More maps to follow

>>1827998
>>Rebuild, rest, and refit
Let's not pull an Alexander, and let's let our men rest, but still have them running drills and be in top shape

>>1827998
>>Expand in the north, to Colla IV and Telti
>>Expand into the Deep Core backwater toward Abraegado-Rae
We are the Emperor and we will not be stopped by damn rebels

>>1827998
>Rebuild, rest, and refit

>>1827998
>Rebuild, rest, and refit

We need ships and we also need to rebuild our ports and keep in check with the deadlines we have. If we stop the rebels will either try to focus on the warlords or on Thrawn So let then try to be the good guys we will rebuild and return stronger.

>>1827998
>>Rebuild, rest, and refit

as much as i would like to take as many planet's as possible we cant leave large gaps in our lines

>Rebuild, rest, and refit

>Writing

File: Mon Cal Shipyards.jpg (1.27 MB, 1063x1280)

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You couldn't risk overstretching your navy, not with so much to gain on the horizon.

"We will bide our time," you say, "Let the Rebellion toy with Thrawn or Zsinj, we'll make ourselves an unappealing target."

"Yes, your Highness. There is," Zahn says, "one last matter."

"Go on."

"I'm not sure if you've spoken with Executor Sedriss recently, but he is proposing a rather . . . bold raid."

"I have not had the opportunity to speak with Sedriss. Explain."

Zahn complies by calling up a massive reconnaissance image of a shipyard, in orbit high above a watery world.

"The Rebel shipyards at Dac," Zahn explains.

You could see the berths were full of a dozen capital ships, Mon-Calamari in make, but of a type unfamiliar to you, shockingly uniform in appearance given the normally haphazard construction style of Mon Cal warships.

"Military intelligence is classifying them as MC90 Class cruisers," Zahn continues, "Twelve of them have been discovered at Dac, but there may be more under construction elsewhere within Rebel-held space. If our estimates are right, these ships are built with the specific purpose of defeating Star Destroyers, they'll likely become the core of a new Rebel fleet."

"And what is the Executor's proposed plan?" you ask.

"Sedriss proposes that he take control of a battle fleet and travel down the Perlimian Trade Route in secret, with the goal of striking Dac and annihilating their shipyards and these ships. Being frank, your Highness, it's quite a bold plan, perhaps to the point of foolhardiness. The risk of the fleet being detected en route is considerable."

"A smaller force then," you propose.

"Possible, but anything less than a battlefleet will lack the firepower to totally destroy those ships," Zahn replies. "To my mind, I see two possibilities, the first being the Executor's plan, and the second being a smaller raiding force, some light cruisers and Korriban class backed with fighters and bombers, it may not be enough to destroy the shipyards, but it could at least destroy some of those new cruisers, and set back the construction of the others."

You also saw a third option, one even less risky, and perhaps not as devastating, but still valid. A small strike team of Darksiders and commandos to infiltrate Dac's shipyards and sabotage a number of those new MC90s. You would have to decide on who would lead the raid if it took place, but first had to decide what sort of raid, if any, would be launched.


>We have other concerns. There will be no raid.
>We will send one of our Battlefleets
>We will send a small raiding force
>We will send a team of Darksiders

>>1828083
>>We will send a small raiding force
Why don't we send a team for each one of theses cruisers, and have them sabotage the engines, or drift the warships right into each other, blowing them up and creating some sort of domino effect

>>1828101
Doable, but infiltrating 12 cruisers at once is 12 times more likely to get discovered and foiled. Plus that's more in line with:

>We will send a team of Darksiders

Unless I misread you.

>>1828118
What makes a darksider different from a commando? Besides the force using, of course

>>1828083
>We will send a small raiding force

>>1828083
>>We will send a small raiding force

>>1828121
That's about it really, I assumed you guys would want to send dark siders, because I think it was mentioned at some point. Doesn't have to be, could be whatever

>>1828083
>We will send a team of Darksiders
>We will send a small raiding force

>>1828128
Well do we have any large bombs or other weapons that we can set off like a bunch of space ISIS? What if we overloaded a Ship's engines, creating some large Supernova type

>>1828083
>We will send a small raiding force

>>1828083
can you add this from my vote here?>>1828145

>Other: Were did the executor got this information?

>>1828154
To answer your question:

Sedriss was on the Luke-hunting expedition with Darth Cythera and they stopped off at Dacw here they witnessed the ships under construction.

>>1828143
Absolutely doable! Just requires a team to do it, that would basically be the "darksider" team option. But as I said, any team will do.

>>1828165
Well if a Commando Force can successfully set off the bomb or whatever they have to do, then sure. Make sure there;s enough fighters that every commando can get home, if needed.

>We will send a small raiding force

>Writing

>>1828083
>>We will send a small raiding force

"A raiding force would be ideal. I'll have some Korribans gathered for this purpose."

"I can round up some escorts for them I'm sure," Zahn adds. "Now, since this is a mixed composition force, I have to ask. Do you have any ideas who could lead such a mission?"

>Darth Cythera
>Executor Sedriss
>Pick one of your commanders
>I will go myself
>Write in

>>1828178
>I will go myself

>>1828178
>>I will go myself
IT'S HYPE BOI

>>1828178
>I will go myself
I can't resist fucking shit up

>>1828178
>Pick one of your commanders

>>1828183
>>1828180
You guys do know that any darksider aboard a vessel will be easily detected by any jedi rigth?

>>1828219
AND THE EMPEROR-GOD WILL DETECT ANY JEDI!

File: Spoiler Image (188 KB, 670x473)

188 KB GIF

>I will go myself

>writing

>>1828231
so stupid i love it!

"I will go myself," you say, casting Zahn a look, daring him to object."

"I-" Zahn stops, taking a breath, "Your Highness, perhaps-"

"The only way I can ensure this job is done correctly is to do it myself. I will not tolerate any argument to this point."

Zahn blinks a few times, "As you say, Highness," he stammers. "Though I must warn you that such a raid will not be quick, you'd be out of direct communication from your Empire for some time, a regent will need to be appointed."

>Darth Cythera
>Grand Vizier Amedda
>Executor Sedriss
>Director Isard
>You will lead in my absence, Admiral
>The Empire will continue to function without me, no regent will be appointed
>On second thought . . . Maybe I'll stay here.

>>1828243
>Grand Vizier Amedda

>>1828243
>>Director Isard

>>1828243
>Director Isard

>>1828243
>>Executor Sedriss
he did so before no?

>>1828264
no that was Grand Vizier I believe.

>>1828243
>Director Isard

>>1828264
>>1828273
Sedriss ruled the Deep Core before your rebirth. Amedda was "around" but not in charge.

>Director Isard

>writing

An unfortunate eventuality, the idea of leaving your Empire in the hands of another, even temporarily was abhorrent to you. Still, if you had to have someone watch the flies, that someone might as well be a spider.

"Director Isard would fulfill that position admirably," you reply.

"Isard?" Zahn exclaims.

"You question my selection, Admiral?"

"N-no, Highness, I just . . . " Zahn swallows the rest of his sentence.

"I recommend you stick to military matters. Have my ships assembled for the raid without delay."

"At once!"

"And Admiral?"

"Yes, Highness?"

You give him a cold smile, "Don't get too comfortable aboard this toy of yours," you gesture to indicate the ship, "You are in my good graces for the time being, but I will not tolerate any more of the kind of failure we've seen, and certainly won't abide the blame game you and Isard played in its wake. From my Grand Admirals I expect solutions, not excuses. Even Lobkin had the good grace to try to clean up his own mess."
Zahn holds your gaze a moment, his chin trembling before bowing his head, "Yes, your Highness."

***

Will there be anything else?

>Write in
>Continue

>>1828327
>>Continue

>>1828327
Update from byss projects?

>>1828337
Have to be more specific, the Sith Hounds?

They'll be a Darksider specific update later on, if that's what you're concerned about

>>1828327
>>Continue
Alana time boys

>>1828371
>Alana time

>Writing

File: ImperialDreadnaught-SWR.png (22 KB, 400x200)

22 KB PNG

You are Alana Tyrna, Baroness of Byss, and Commander of 4th Division, 3rd Fleet. What was left of it anyway. The crushing defeat at Corellia had stung, more than you cared to admit, though the punishment you'd doled out to the Rebels in the Rock Crab Nebula had helped, it didn't quite close the gaps.

That had been an injury, as had returning to Corellia to find the shipyards you'd previously guarded so nearly destroyed. But this . . . This was an insult.

"Dreadnaughts," you repeated to Lieutenant Bastra, your Executive Officer and right hand man on board your flagship, Retribution, one of just two Star Destroyers under your command that survived Corellia, the other being Monarch, the ship of your close friend, Captain Roth Tierce.

"Yes, ma'am," Bastra said, "Dreadnaughts."

You put the datapad down on the desk in your ready room perhaps a bit harder than you meant to. You hadn't expected Kuat to churn out two brand new Star Destroyers for you (okay, well part of you had) but you had expected warships designed in the last century.

At least Sobieski's new ship, replacing his lost Winterborn was a Star Destroyer, although it was an older Imperial I-Class. Desolator. But in place of the deceased Captain Wei's ship Despot, you had been given two aging Dreadnaught-Class heavy cruisers. They were Imperial refits, modified with a lower crew requirement and an integral Tie hangar, but they were certainly not front line caliber.

This put your capital ship compliment at two Imperial II-Class, one Imperial I-Class and two Dreadnaught-Class ships. For a garrison force, it might suffice, but it was certainly sub optimal.

>We'd better get used to it
>Talk to your father and try to pull some strings
>Complain to Lobkin
>Try talking with Luar again, he may be willing to make a deal

>>1828385
>>We'd better get used to it

>>1828385
>We'd better get used to it

>>1828385
>We'd better get used to it

>We'd better get used to it

>writing

The alternatives to just accepting the old ships were almost worse than being assigned the ships themselves. So be it.

"I suppose it can't be helped," you say, telling yourself Dreadnaughts aren't so bad. "Besides, I rather doubt it's permanent."

"Yes, ma'aam," Bastra says.

"So," you drum your fingers on the desk, "What's on our docket today?" The days you'd spent in Corellian orbit were full of the endless monotony of repair and refit, reports of equipment replaces seemingly endless. You were waiting on a few more deliveries of supplies before you'd consider yourself fighting fit. One in particular, the fighters, you were awaiting eagerly, keen to be rid of these old Tie /Lns that limited you so much in the last battle.

Bastra glances at his own datapad, "Well ma'am, those particular Dreadnaughts, Justice and Python, are still awaiting final command staff selection. Admiral Lobkin seems to be deferring to your choice on that."

One of many small favors the Admiral seemed to pull for you, you noted wryly.

"We've got more fighters due to be delivered soon," Bastra continues. "Lieutenant Vells has scheduled a one-on-one meeting with you-"

"Vells?" You voiced surprise. Why would that blustering jock want to talk with you?
Bastra nods, not dissuaded from his list "A large batch of fresh recruits will be arriving soon, graduates from the academies on Raithal and Carida, as well as fresh conscripts from the Inner Rim it seems."

New additions to the Empire, that ought to be interesting.

"And it seems Admiral Lobkin is looking to meet you with." Bastra keeps his expression blank, "Personally."

Ignoring your XO's tone, you stretch back in your chair, "Well, Lieutenant. Seems we've got a lot ahead of us."

"Quite."

(1/2)

You were Emperor Palpatine, and you were contemplating a still, silent lake of the Force. Black as the sky above it and endlessly deep.

The Jedi claimed they let The force control them. A foolish and misguided notion. The force was a resource to be gathered jealously and controlled. The great Sith philosopher Jeslax'raum had once said that the Dark Side was a well from which few could drink. To share that power or to waste it on some pitiful idea of equity was unforgivable. No, this place, the Dark Side, was your personal, untapped reservoir.

Or so you thought.

The once tranquil surface of the water was broken, casting endless ripples through the force.

You opened your eyes to the darkness of your meditation chambers on board Tarkin, the only sound the distant thrum of the ship's drive as it made its way to Brentaal and the raiding force beginning to assemble there.

You'd felt a strong disturbance in the force. An awakening of the Dark Side. It was a new experience for you, but it wasn't entirely a surprise. You were experiencing exactly what your Archmage, Sly Moore, had described to you. "the others".

It seemed that the Rule of Two wasn't as strictly enforced across the galaxy as you might have liked. It was a matter you would need to discuss with your Dark Side advisers because it was increasingly clear that you were not alone.

***

That's all the time I have tonight guys. Thanks for stopping by, as always I appreciate it endlessly. Next game session is Saturday, 7EST (11 UTC) and I hope to see all of you there.

If you have any questions for me, feel free to fire away, otherwise I have a few for your all.

For some reason I've got it into my head to condense the Dark Empire backlog into an eBook/PDF for easier consumption. I've been working on that a bit, tweaking errors, spell checking, touching up some very minor continuity issues I find, etc. My question is:

1: Is this something you want?

2: Should the finished product just be an endless copy past of my posts exactly as they appear in the archive
OR
Should I format them to be read as a narrative story. (ie, remove all the voting options and meta shit and post breaks) so it can just be read like a poorly written novel.

You tell me.

Thanks all! Be sure to follow the Twitter if you haven't.

https://twitter.com/DarkEmpireQuest

>>1828452
>An awakening of the Dark Side
I'm guessing it's either Sedriss's ghost master thing (Muur?), Krayt, Lumiya, or Exar Kun.

>>1828452
I like it.

>>1828452
>1: Is this something you want?
Sure, sounds good!

2: Should the finished product just be an endless copy past of my posts exactly as they appear in the archive
OR
Should I format them to be read as a narrative story. (ie, remove all the voting options and meta shit and post breaks) so it can just be read like a poorly written novel.
I'm more partial to the second option. If you're bothering to collate everything - you might as well reformat everything to fit a narrative structure

Having been assigned old Dreadnaughts to fill in the gaps of your division was hardly ideal, though it seemed the rest of the Fleet was doing just as poorly. With Corellia's shipyards out of action, it meant you couldn't even siphon off a few light cruisers and patrol craft from them.

Even now though, the dockyard was swarming with workers and craft, the bright flares of welders and cutting torches twinkling like manmade stars at a distance.

You'd collected a list of tasks that needed doing from Lieutenant Bastra and were setting out to do them. The first being the assignment of the captain's position to the two Dreadnaughts you found yourself in possession of. Admiral Lobkin, your direct superior, had left the assignment of those positions up to you. This meant you could tap a favored subordinate for the role, or leave the selection up to the naval board, basically taking whoever they recommend for the job.


>I'll select captains myself
>It doesn't matter, let the Naval board decide

Sorry for the delay, watching the Matrix, lost track of time. Also, posting on my phone. Please be patient.

>>1833930
>>It doesn't matter, let the Naval board decide
It's shit ships we're not going to use for long. I don't care who they bring, maybe we'll find some good people in it

>>1833930
>>It doesn't matter, let the Naval board decide
We'll see who they suggest and tell them how they're wrong

The best one, I expect?

>It doesn't matter, let the Naval board decide

>Writing

You decided you'd first review the Naval Board assignments before you assigned any of "Your people to those relics.

You aren't terribly surprised by their choices. For [i]Python[/i], a career captain named Farris, began his career in the Commenor Planetary Militia during the late Clone Wars and had captained a string of older vessels since then, little on his record distinguished him, a few fights with pirates, involvement in a skirmish against Rebel forces almost a decade ago. He looked like a "safe" choice for this kind of assignment.

The selection for [i]Justice[/i] was more interesting, thought not at first inspection. Captain Petros was a graduate of the Amazes War College during the early Galactic Civil War, he'd been given command of a Victory-Class Star Destroyer in command of a small sector fleet in the Outer Rim where he served without distinction. It seemed Captain Petros had some kind of powerful connections to achieve such a posting just after graduation, even in a backwater system. That was until he was abruptly transferred to command a Strike-class in Foerost's Planetary Defense forces. Quite a fall from grace with no official reason given. Afterward, he'd partaken in a few battles against Rebels during the reconquest, namely at Rendilli under Oxtroe and again at Dakshee, apparently doing well enough to secure command of a capital ship, albeit an older one.

His transfer and apparent demotion interested you enough to do some digging into his past command. The records you'd found painted a picture, though an incomplete one. His Victory-Class, [i]Pestillence[/i], had a handful of curious incidences. Namely, a promising bridge officer and XO to Petros, Lieutenant Farwin, had abruptly been striped of her rank and discharged from the navy 'misconduct' being the votes reason.

In addition to that, another bridge officer had died under Petros's command, and outside of combat. An ensign, fresh from the academy had suffered an unspecified accident while on board [i]Pestilence[/i] and been killed. The ensign own record was entirely unremarkable, he'd been a tractor beam operator from Taris. Unremarkable except that his race, rather than "human" was listed as "near-human".

Quite a puzzle, and a mysterious black mark for Captain Petros on an otherwise uninteresting career.

You could of course reject either assignment with the power afforded to you by Lobkin, but that judgement lay in your hands.

>Accept them
>No, I'll pick my own people
>write in

>>1834171
>Accept them
Send our dark sider to "interview" Petros

>>1834182
This

>>1834182
supporting

>>1834182
Supporting

>>1834182
>>1834194
>>1834200
>>1834205

Can do, but looking for anything in particular?

>>1834219
Anything suspicious that could make a him a rebel spy or imperial intelligence. If he's clean then he's in.

>>1834219
Any lies he told, any suspicious answers, any weird Dexter serial killer shit, or some weird rapey drunk tendencies.

>>1834234
>>1834237
Can do

>Accept them
>Send our dark sider to "interview" Petros

>Writing

You didn't like unknowns. The Empire was not built on unknowns, and now, you had the power to know. You remembered Brakiss ripping knowledge from There's mind and suspected Lord Sallin was capable of the same to some degree.

An interview by a Komissar was not unusual, not in the new navy. When you explained your request to Sallin, He voiced no objections or questions, but responded with a nod.

You were a bit surprised by the length of the interrogation though, with Brakiss it had taken minutes, Sallin' s lasted a few hours, but when he returned he had answers.

"Captain Petros is not a Rebel," he says, flashing a grim smile, "For ill or for good, he is a true Imperial. He commands to the best of his ability and believes in the cause to some degree." His smile widens, "As for the strange incidents under his command, Lieutenant Farwin did in fact engage in misconduct. What is omitted from the report is that she engaged in that "misconduct with her superior officer, Petros. Because she or Petros failed to take proper precautions, their 'misconduct' was due to becomee obvious to everyone. She was discharged from the navy to conceal this fact,"

Such affairs were distasteful to you, but did occur, "And the ensign?"

Sallin only smiles wider, "The Ensign had the misfortune of being a non-human under Petros's command. I don't know all the details, but his accident involved a hydrospanner and the captain. It seemed he never quite liked the way the ensign looked at him. It was blatant enough that I think his patrons took offense with a second cover up and had Peteos transfered to a less conspicuous command."

"Who are they?" You asked, "These patrons?"

"His father-in law was a Moff. A minor one, but major enough to secure his posting in the Outer Rim."

You mulled it over, Petros was a murder, and at best was indiscriminate in his love affairs, at worst used and abandoned a woman while her superior officer, but, as Sallin attests, he is no traitor. You supposed even Imperial Officers could be scum.

The question is wether or not to keep him

>These are minor offences, he'll do
>I'll allow him, but keep an eye on him
>Admit him, but I'll have words with him first
>I won't serve with that kind of trash under my command. I need someone else

>>1834306
>Admit him, but I'll have words with him first

>>1834306
>>I'll allow him, but keep an eye on him
I don't like aliens too, but I wouldn't beat them to death on my ship.

>>1834306
>>Admit him, but I'll have words with him first

>Admit him, but I'll have words with him first

>Writing

You would speak to him, of course. You weren't about to let such a loose cannon element into your division without making the situation clear to him.

Petros had been approved for command of Justice and was settling in to his new role when you paid a surprise inspection visit.

He wasn't quite what you imagined, short, blank-faced and quiet, he looked young, save the hints of grey begining to show in his long sideburns.

If he was aware of your connection with Sallin he gave no sign. Instead dutifully trudging through a tour of his ship. Bridge, gunnery stations. Crew barracks, mess hall, hangar.

It was when you got him alone during a meeting in his cramped ready room that you decided to bring up his past.


>What you do in your free time is your business. But not while in uniform, and not aboard my ships. Clear?
>I'd heard about your past from Lord Sallin and I have to say I'm bot pleased. Make sure your past is the past or you'll be hearing from me again. You are not irreplaceable
>I expect you'll be on your very best behavior, is that the case, captain?
>Write in

>>1834390
>>What you do in your free time is your business. But not while in uniform, and not aboard my ships. Clear?

>>1834390
>>What you do in your free time is your business. But not while in uniform, and not aboard my ships. Clear?

>>1834390
>I need officer's i can count on captain considering your past would you say that you are someone i can count on?

>What you do in your free time is your business. But not while in uniform, and not aboard my ships. Clear?

>Writing

"One last thing, Captain." You pause halfway to the door. "What you do in your free time is your business. But not while in uniform, and not aboard my ships. Clear?"

At first Petros looks confused, then briefly embarrassed before his emotions are concealed again behind that blank facade. "Perfectly clear, ma'am."

"Execellent," you say. " So long then as you remain someone I can count on, there will be no problems. Can you guarantee me that?"

"I'm here to serve the Empire and destroy the Rebellion, ma'am. Nothing less."

"Keep to it then," your turn your back on Petros and leave.

(1/2)

There was also the matter of Lieutenant Vells and his meeting with you. Vells was normally the kind of person who kept to himself, and while you had to have talks with him in the past, he had certainly never [i]asked[/i] to speak with you. Not that you minded, Vells was an old hand from your first days aboard [i]Splinter[/i], and a capable subordinate. He'd been through the wringer time and again, though he'd emerged a few limbs lighter, he was alive, more than many other Tie pilots could say.

The door to your office hissed open and Vells stepped through, looking uneasy, his eyes shifting side to side as he fidgeted in place.

"Lieutenant?"
"Commander," Vells was being tight lipped. Not his normal self.

You pause a moment, waiting for him to speak, ultimately asking the question yourself, "How can I help you?""Being honest, maa'am: not sure you can."

"You came to speak with me when you don't think I can help you?"

Vells shifts in place, working his words over in his head before speaking, "Tie pilots only have a limited sortie enlistment. It's not strictly time based like a lot of other branches. I mean, it's been done, but it's hard to fill these cockpits when you know you ain't gonna live more than a handful of battles. It's a law of averages, ultimately every one's number comes up, understand?"

You nod.

"It's real hard on a lot of the conscripts, so we tell em 'do your time, do your sorties, and get out.' It's a bit like a lottery sometimes. Well, ma'am, my sorties just ran out."

Your feel slightly alarmed that you'll be losing Vells before he interjects.

"No worries, I'm gonna re-enlist. There's too much at stake to leave it to the new pukes, but now we've got a lot of new guys on the flight line. Guys in Tie /Lns. It's suicide, ma'am."

You sigh, "I'm aware of the fighter supply problems, and it [i]is[/i] being looked into. Unfortunately I can't promise much more than that right now."

Vells face twists as he obviously fights down his initial response. "Ma'am, all respect, but that ain't good enough for me. Explain why it is that guys in the other divisions are getting Avengers and we're stuck flying the Tie my kriffing dad flew."


>Lieutenant, I suggest you control your tone
>Don't worry about it, it will be a thing of the past soon, our new fighters are coming in shortly
>Honestly, it boils down to a personal vendetta a Kuati supplier has against me
>It's no concern of yours, Lieutenant. You fly what we give you.
>Write in

>>1834563
>>Don't worry about it, it will be a thing of the past soon, our new fighters are coming in shortly
>Honestly, it boils down to a personal vendetta a Kuati supplier has against me
And between me and you, he'll get what's coming to him for killing my men

>>1834563
>>Lieutenant, I suggest you control your tone
>>Don't worry about it, it will be a thing of the past soon, our new fighters are coming in shortly
Advanced texts aren't going to work when you have a different IP than the original mate

>>1834578
>Different Ip
Yeah, I know. I just keep forgetting. I shall double my efforts, I won't fail you again.

>>1834575
>>1834578

I'll try to collate these two together.

>Writing

You let silence linger a moment before you answer. "Firstly, Lieutenant, I know you're a man inclined to quick words, but I need to remind you to control your tone."

"That's hard when my people were kriffing slaughtered at Corellia because we're flying tubs from a decade ago against new hardware," Vells blurts.

You fix Vells with a withering stare.

He looks down at his boots and speaks through gritted teeth. "Sorry. Ma'am."

"Secondly," you relax a bit, "You shouldn't have to worry about it. Soon enough it will be a thing of the past, our new fighters are coming in shortly."

Vells crosses his arms, "That aint what I heard. Word is that 4th division is officially being classified as 'second tier' and getting a fresh new helping of bantha fodder."

You narrowed your eyes, tone frosty, "I haven't heard anything to that regard."

Vells shrugged, "Hey, it's just scuttlebutt."

"Well, the truth of it is that It boils down to a personal vendetta a Kuati supplier has against me, and between me and you, he'll get what's coming to him for killing my men."

Vells scoffs "A personal vendetta? No offense ma'am, but you're important. You've got money. Hire a bounty hunter to off the slime and move on with your life. Where I'm from, people've lost their lives for less."

>Are you volunteering to take care of this, Lieutenant?
>As I said, don't worry about it. I've got everything under control
>I appreciate you speaking we me, Lieutenant. I'll take care of it

>>1834820
>>As I said, don't worry about it. I've got everything under control

>>1834820
>>Are you volunteering to take care of this, Lieutenant?

Fucking Saturdays, right?

>As I said, don't worry about it. I've got everything under control

>>1834897
Took the words right out of my mouth. It's a holiday weekend here in the states so, it's no surprise.


>As I said, don't worry about it. I've got everything under control

>Writing

"As I said, don't worry about it. I've got everything under control."

Vells shrugged, "Take your word on that. Ma'am."

"Unless you're volunteering to take care of this for me," you say with a coy grin.

Vells didn't smile back, "You just say the name and give me enough leave."

His honesty was somewhat shocking to you. Growing up on Byss you didn't witness much in the way of violence. You weren't sure where Vells was from, but it didn't seem.to be the same case for him.

"Thank you, Lieutenant. That will be all."

***

The placid and calm ship-wide page of "Commander Tyrna to the bridge" Came a few hours after your meeting with Vells. Normally such a page only came for matters that required the captain's personal attention. As you strode onto the command deck, you saw nothing threatening.

"Situation?" you asked Bastra, puzzled by the lack of panic you'd expected from being summoned in such a way. Instead you were greeted with tight-lipped expressions.

Bastra nodded with his head toward a trio of bulk freighters, each emblazoned with the Imperial seal, marking them as merchant marines. "Shipment from Balmorra. Tie Fighters." He cast an uneasy glance to Lord Sallin, your silent Komissar, who seemed to almost materialize beside you.

"Avengers?" you ask.

Bastra slowly shakes his head.

"Blast it all," you mutter under your breath, staring blaster bolts at the boxy freighters hovering off [i]Retribution[/i]'s bow. It looked like Luar was still playing games with your forces, and after you'd promised your best pilot you'd handle it.

Bastra, clearly saw your expression of disgust. "Shall I have them turn back?"

>No, let them offload
>Yes, I'm not taking one more old Tie
>No, but have them hold. I am sorting this out before we accept them

>>1834955
>>Yes, I'm not taking one more old Tie
Surely this is crossing the line now, maybe even treason

>>1834955
>>No, but have them hold. I am sorting this out before we accept them

>1 we're not taking one more tie

>2 have them hold

>>1835065

>>1835069
Y u no roll

Rolled 1 (1d2)

>>1835075
Fml

>>1835080
>>1835075
>>1835065
Fucking Saturdays

Learned my phone doesnt like to roll dice today.

>we're not taking one more tie

>Writing

"Yes. Turn them back. Provide them an escort to the hyperlimit."

Silent shock courses through the bridge crew who sit dumbfounded before Bastra casts a baleful gaze to set them to work.

"I made a promise to Lieutenant Vells," you say, "I'm not taking any more old deathtraps. This is borderline treason."

"Yes, ma'am," Bastra says. "What are you going to do?"

Vells offer to "deal with" Luar, or his suggestion to hire a bounty hunter flashes through your mind. "I haven't quite decided yet."

***

That's all my time. Thanks for sticking with me through a slow session. Phone posting +holiday weekend = no bueno.

Hopefully everyone had a good time, and I hope to see y'all on Tuesday for what happens next.

Thanks!