Governor's Gambit - Star Wars SI into Imperial Governor

[Nikoli]

As long as he dosent change his name to Kane & dosent start prophetizing about green crystal and next step in evolution things shouldnt get too bad.

Click to shrink...

 

[Nikoli]

so the alien giants going to help man the yard? or join the system defence for as shock troopers?

would be funny if las does a cultural exchange program/joint training and everyone think he's building a hidden army with primitive kick as giants lol .

Click to shrink...

Would be really interesting if a few hundred thousand Wookiee show up.

 

[MorbiIIionaire]

I wonder if there is going to be a friendly fire incident between ISB and Las's people.

 

[Fearless444]

Thanks for the chapter

 

[Sire-alien]

When those people come to Minda they will probably want to stay. he is getting his manpower plus the headache of the other governors having a fit losing theirs.

 

[Yacov]

Omake: The Cavern

POV: Grimjaw, ex-enforcer for Underbite the Crime Lord, Highreach, Edin System

Grimjaw the Nikto stepped out of the rudimentary refresher in his cell and quickly put on his orange synthweave jumpsuit. Despite the suit being more expensive, the slight itchiness couldn't help but remind Grimjaw of putting on his sackcloth as a kid before adventuring out into Belt Haven with his fellow Blue Chins.

Childhood memories brought Grimjaw's train of thought to how Edin and his life had changed over the past few years. Less than two years ago he was riding the high life as one of Underbite's top enforcers. Sentients and animals alike would quake when he strutted around town.

Then the Empire up and decided that laws were things they were supposed to enforce. Underbite was a good boss to his men, but his gun running put him near the top of the new governor's hit list. After the hideout was raided it was only a matter of time before the Empire tracked down all the safehouses. Now Grimjaw was just another prisoner in the Cavern.

Grimjaw thought about his new home as he left his cell and gazed past the railing and into the Pit. Rumor has it the Cavern used to be the main stronghold of Highreach's top slaving gang. After the Empire cleared them out, they decided to convert the existing infrastructure into a prison for the criminals they decided were now worth arresting.

"Oi Blue Boy! Quit spacing out! Better hurry to the cafeteria before all the good spices and additives are gone!"

His neighbor's call knocked Grimjaw out of his musings. Silently thanking the man in his mind, he made his way around the glass covered catwalk towards the first destination in his schedule.

——

The Cafeteria was the start of every convict's day. Basic meals for a standard sentient were a protein rich fibrous slop sprinkled with nutritional supplement cubes as well as two rectangular units of grains with water to wash it down. Anything remotely close to flavor required a prisoner to spend Work Credits they earned during their labor shifts.

"Hey Blubber Buddy! Your slop treating you alright?"

The Herglic con artist played with his oversized utensils like he was shuffling cards. No doubt thinking about a past card game or con he ran. Or planning a future one.

"Hey Blue Boy. The food's alright. I just wish I could get some more spice to make it a bit more palatable. You up for a game?"

You could have all the seasonings, fruit, vegetables, non-processed meat, and salt-alternatives you want as long as you had the Work Credits. Pure salt was banned after some Arcona got lowered into the Pit for trying to organize a Salt Mafia in their block.

"Not a chance Blubber Buddy. We may be friends, but I know you well enough to know you would clean me out of my Work Credits in no time. Go hunt some gullible marks."

Where there was currency, there was crime. Naturally when Grimjaw first arrived, he made discreet inquiries to try and identify the bosses and hustles in the prison. Only the find out the worst prisoners got up to was spice trading that the guards monitored. The seasoning kind, not even the drug kind.

"I am trying to keep my games private and friendly. If I start prowling like a shark, then the guards might freeze my account. Defeating the point of getting more food money."

People who made trouble or roughed up someone usually got sent to their cells during free time or had their Work Credit account locked. Anyone trying to do worse was quickly found by the guards and given time in the Pit.

"At least fleecing some fools won't get you the Pit. Although maybe you would get in touch with your ancestors."

The Pit was a chasm right next to the Cavern. Gossip says the slaver gang that was here before dumped product that had expired into the Pit. People talked about how you can still hear their screams in the dead of night.

"Don't even joke about that Blue Boy. I ain't getting dragged away by angry spirits. Besides, my ancestors kept to the surface. Easier on the blowhole."

Being lowered into the Pit left you with just you, your thoughts, and the pitch black darkness not even the Cavern's light could penetrate. Whether the gossip is true, a night or two spent in that cage they use to lower you into the Pit is often enough to straighten out even the most crooked sentient.

"Well maybe lift some extra heavy boxes this shift. We are getting our parts shipment today, so there should be plenty of work in the loading bay."

Finishing his morning meal, Grimjaw did some stretches and got ready for his labor shift.

——

Labor shifts in the Cavern outside of services and custodian jobs was primarily focused on manufacturing. The natural properties of the Cavern made it very stable temperature wise and with next to no humidity. This made it ideal for making and storing things you wanted kept clean and unbothered.

"Now if only these masks wouldn't fog up my glasses so much."

The thought made Grimjaw notice the gloves, glasses, and mask he wore while he worked on his solar panel. Solar panels and wind turbine blades were the common exports out of the Cavern. These weren't the large ones used in the Governor's infrastructure projects, but rather small ones used to keep small businesses and homesteads powered.

"Maybe I should study up and see if I can get into the scrubber department."

If you were minimum security, had a good rep, and had the technical skills like an Outlaw Tech, you could earn a lot more Work Credits making air scrubbers. Trust was needed for small towns to accept what they constructed in the depths of the Caverns. The motto the prison kept spewing was "cleanse the body, cleanse the mind, cleanse the planet". Personally Grimjaw was just happy with the luxuries he could purchase with the Work Credits he earned, or that they were luxuries to buy at all.

"Beats being thrown into mines that would make Kessel seem regulation compliant."

Grimjaw had heard horror stories from other prisoners who had been imprisoned before about what went on in other Imperial prisons. Horrific tales of mining with primitive tools, daily beatings from the guards and other prisoners, little in the way of food choices, and even no central temperature control in the cells. It all made him glad he got arrested in Edin rather than one of those nightmare systems.

——

Grimjaw was out of his work clothes and stepping into the Yard for his free time. The Yard was more a large tunnel that was sealed off, divided into rooms, and filled with leisure equipment. Still it felt nice to have natural material under his feet and above his head, even if it was stone.

"Smiles! Don't you just love that fresh air?"

The Klatooinian tough made an effort to frown, but still took a small breath. Even the air didn't feel as stale or sterile here. Small vents and fans on the ceiling allowing for fresh air to flow into this sectioned off portion of the Cavern.

"The air is nice Blue Boy. Just watching the bots stumble around and gawk at the ceiling before getting a workout, you coming?"

It was theorized that a prisoner could escape through those vents if they could climb or fly high enough. However the cameras and BLX labor droids constantly patrolling the Yard and the rest of the Cavern dissuaded most break out attempts.

"Was thinking about hitting the books, but a workout sounds nice. Let's see you grit your teeth."

Stepping in line with his favorite workout buddy, Grimjaw made his way over to the gym. He might not be an enforcer anymore, but he had pride in his physique and the membership was relatively cheap. He could have gone to the library or the limited PAD stations, but something about working his body always made him happy.

——

Nothing beat hitting the refresher after a good workout and meal. Between tightening his belt at the Cafeteria and avoiding getting addicted to PAD time, Grimjaw had saved up healthy helping of Work Credits.

"Almost enough, and just about to hit the deadline."

There were holo visiting hours scheduled for almost every inmate. However with a little greasing, the guards would allow a prisoner to schedule a monitored extended call outside the Cavern.

"Hope I have enough. No, it needs to be enough. Smooth Brow is counting on me."

Just a few more shifts and Grimjaw will have enough to be there for his sister's birthday party. He might only be able to attend for a couple of hours, but it will mean the world to her.

"Just a few more shifts and you can see her smile, Blue Boy."

Grimjaw went to bet on his bunk imagining the look on his sister's face.

——

Been a while since we have seen a planetside look at Highreach in the Edin system. Figured with all the criminals, there is probably going to be at least one correctional facility on the planet. Not as bad as most Imperial prisons in canon or legends given it is actually aimed at rehabilitation without the use drugs and mind control devices. The Pit *dramatic sting plays* is more for appearance's sake so the rest of the Empire doesn't accuse Las of being soft on lawbreakers.

Crossposted on SB and SV

 

[Freefaller]

Chp-69

TK-582, Okto Perker
Minda System, Ugea, Vrectin City

The first time Okto had fought beside the Commander had been years ago now. Much had changed since then.

The armor he wore was better. The weapon he wielded was stronger. Training exercises and experience hunting criminals on Edin had sharpened his mind and body.

Most importantly of all? He could actually see out of the helmet he was wearing.

A helmet he feared would be filled with vomit by the end of the mission.

Because for all the experience he now had, watching the Commander crush that pirate's skull way back when still made his stomach churn.

And now she was here again.

Joy.

Still, he pushed it out of his mind as the shuttle landed.

As he rose, a mental mask fell over his mind.

From that seat, TK-582 stood, falling in place with the rest of his squad.

They exited the shuttle into the Vrectin City Spaceport. An open air port with ships lined up in different pads, becoming muddled in the night the further one looked.

As his squad marched on the large freighter ahead, he spied the other squad to the left, Commander Grant leading them.

Her armor was a darker grey than normal trooper armor, her visor a deep blood red.

Soon, they reached the freighter. For all their marching, it was the dead of night, and none knew they were there.

The city's garrison, however, was aware. Their TIE's were ready to deploy in an instant if things went awry.

582 lined up along the, his sergeant across from, the breaching charged armed on the airlock between them.

The charge exploded with no sound as 582's helmet filtered out dangerously loud noises. A second later, the sound returned and he was already turning the corner.

The Commander walked out ahead of them through the smoke as his squad fanned out around her.

A rebel turned the closest hallway corner, pistol raised. He pulled the trigger, and a controlled burst of red death cracked from his E-11.

All around him, the same scene played out. Stormtroopers sighting enemies and firing less than a second later. Crimson bolts ripped through the air as the rebels tried and failed to stop them.

"Squad Aurek, with me." Came the Commander's voice, and 582 complied. He spotted squad Besh moving towards the cargo bay.

The fighting continued through the hallways, his squad ripping through enemies wherever they appeared.

The Commander did little, simply walking ever forward as rebels fell dead around her.

As they turned a corner, another rebel, a large man with a vibro knife in hand, aimed directly at the Commander.

Before his squad could get a shot off, the Commander was on him. Knife thrown aside, she swept his legs, but caught him by the scruff of his neck in her grey plated fingers.

Then, she slammed his head into the floor with a loud, wet crunch. Letting go, he tried to get up.

Unfortunately for him, the Commander's boot soon bound the back of his neck, and a far more grotesque snap resounded before the man went still.

Without a word, she turned back around and continued walking,

Eventually, they made it to the freighters bridge. Once again, they breached, and once again, they slaughtered every living being within the area.

And the Commander simply stood there, in the middle of the firefight. Anytime a rebel aimed at her, her scatterblaster roared. But she never took cover, never needed too.

Within half a minute, the dozen or so rebels had all died. Over the commlink, 582 heard squad Besh completing their objectives.

Soon after, they were back on the shuttle as other troopers took over.

It was only when he made it all the way back home did the mask of 582 slip off, and Okto come back in.

He took a deep breath.

And immediately barfed into his helmet.

Why couldn't the Commander fight normally!?

-

Darna Sabrir
Edin System, Highreach, Edinspire, Capitol Building

From the top of the capitol building, Darna surveilled Edinspire.

The city was far denser than Accordia, covered in many skyscrapers. Many were once owned by criminals and corrupt officials.

Now, they served other purposes. Some were turned into apartments, centers of business, communal areas, and more.

Others still were being torn down. Even now she could see the outline of the larger pieces of construction equipment, highlighted against the city's lights.

The very fact that she had the time to appreciate the view was a testament to her newfound free time. Possibly only because she was no longer Guild Director.

It irked her greatly, but it had truly made her healthier. The bags under her eyes were barely visible now, and her mind felt clearer.

The stress had been piling up. Looking back now, she could see her mistakes, made in a rush to establish power and control.

Overextension, shouldering too many burdens, poorly implemented programs and more. None of it disastrous, but death by a thousand cuts is death all the same.

Still, that was not to say it was easy. No. Even now, she contemplated the most recent report to come from SWEEP.

The terrorists had been captured and made to talk. Then, the information on their base of operations leaked to the Commander. It was hasty, yes, but it had to be done.

The Hand had been preparing for another strike. Another direct assasination attempt on the Governor.

For both Darna and the organizations she was a part of, that was a fail condition. The Governor may not know of SWEEP, WEB or HAVEN, nor the part Pathline Inc. plays in them, but it is through his actions, policies and attitude that these organizations even exist and operate.

After all, they were founded to protect this little haven of peace from the rest of the galaxy. A haven that only existed because the Governor wasn't like other Imperial officials. If he died, the Moff would send his replacement.

And they didn't have any ability to influence that decision. Whoever they got would likely be far worse, and create an environment in which they could not survive.

Now all that was left was the clean up. Rogue Hand agents would be dealt with quietly as they were tracked down, assuming there were any left.

After that, well… they'd have to look to the stars. The shipyard was just about finished, after all. A few berths would be staffed by hired Rothanan workers to begin initial production, while more new workers would be brought in and trained.

That was the insertion point. In a few days, she would be meeting with the leaders of SWEEP, HAVEN, WEB, along with the new Guild Director and Pathline CEO. All, of course, part of the same council.

As the organizations under her grew, and new ones popped up, she shifted from top-down control to a council system, where they all worked together to achieve their goal. She still held the most sway, and was considered something of an unofficial leader, but the burden was not on her alone.

As she considered potential plans for insertion of agents into the yards to bring up in the meeting, her terminal pinged.

Taking a look, it was from the Governor. A rough draft for a proposal for the Guild. A way to get workers for the yard.

Darna smiled.

It seems she has her plan.

-

Hi there folks! Sorry for the late night update, but I couldn't not finish this chapter now. I'm experiencing an emotional high from eating home made bean dip and listening to Tenacious D/ Neon Genesis Evangelion crossover music.

This is (not) the greatest song in the world by camhcom is an absolute fucking banger of a song. Combined with the bean dip?

Religious experience.

As always, feedback and commentary appreciated.

Thanks for reading!

-Freefaller

 

[Fearless444]

GLORY dam i need to sleep have a good one yall

 

[GrimmKenway8646]

Why couldn't the Commander fight normally!?

Click to shrink...

She probably never will. Man I wanna read an omake of Leia finding out of an Alderaanian Imperial being incredibly brutal in killing their enemies. I remember in Legends, a loyal Imperial from Alderaan too.

 

[oscar e Sampedro Lopez]

Thanks for the chapter

 

[ChickenZero]

Chp-69

Hi there folks! Sorry for the late night update, but I couldn't not finish this chapter now. I'm experiencing an emotional high from eating home made bean dip and listening to Tenacious D/ Neon Genesis Evangelion crossover music.

This is (not) the greatest song in the world by camhcom is an absolute fucking banger of a song. Combined with the bean dip?

-Freefaller

Click to shrink...

I can haz recipe for the bean dip and link for the music plz!!??!

 

[vtkun]

thanks for the chapter

 

[Objectivepersona]

Darna needs to follow in the Governors footsteps and learn to delegate.

 

[AldariSiradla]

The Commander truly is Governor Mola's Durasteel Fist.
And Darna truly is Governor Mola's Shadow.
Let's see what new shenanigans the Force, the Universe, or someone else will bring!

 

[sxeron10]

Darna is becoming more and more of an Imperial.

Ironic.

 

[furiothecat]

Average SW soldier: fires blaster, takes cover

Commander Grant: RIP AND TEAR

 

[Mistroz]

Excellent chapter.

 

[GrimmKenway8646]

Click to shrink...

Rise my people. I have returned, never to leave your side again. GDI The New Republic sought to destroy me, but they have only made me stronger. Today, we march forward into our future. A stronger people. A divined people, enhanced for the Tiberium Kalkite world. The time has come, to claim this world as our own! The time has come, to destroy GDI the New Republic! One vision. One purpose! Peace through power!
— Returned Las (Kalkite Sun)

 

[Yacov]

As they turned a corner, another rebel, a large man with a vibro knife in hand, aimed directly at the Commander.

Before his squad could get a shot off, the Commander was on him. Knife thrown aside, she swept his legs, but caught him by the scruff of his neck in her grey plated fingers.

Then, she slammed his head into the floor with a loud, wet crunch. Letting go, he tried to get up.

Unfortunately for him, the Commander's boot soon bound the back of his neck, and a far more grotesque snap resounded before the man went still.

Click to shrink...

Power armor sure helps in close quarters. Then again Grant could probably do that without the power armor just fine.

And the Commander simply stood there, in the middle of the firefight. Anytime a rebel aimed at her, her scatterblaster roared. But she never took cover, never needed too.

Click to shrink...

Las: "Keep yourself safe Grant."

Grant: Stands in the middle of a firefight with no cover and occasionally fires her weapon.

For both Darna and the organizations she was a part of, that was a fail condition. The Governor may not know of SWEEP, WEB or HAVEN, nor the part Pathline Inc. plays in them, but it is through his actions, policies and attitude that these organizations even exist and operate.

After all, they were founded to protect this little haven of peace from the rest of the galaxy. A haven that only existed because the Governor wasn't like other Imperial officials. If he died, the Moff would send his replacement.

And they didn't have any ability to influence that decision. Whoever they got would likely be far worse, and create an environment in which they could not survive.

Click to shrink...

Las is such a good Governor and the alternatives are likely so bad that an entire loyalist network formed without his knowledge to keep him in power. None of the above organizations are officially acknowledged parts of the Imperial Government in Las' realm, they just spawned through private efforts even if by public officials.

That was the insertion point. In a few days, she would be meeting with the leaders of SWEEP, HAVEN, WEB, along with the new Guild Director and Pathline CEO. All, of course, part of the same council.

As the organizations under her grew, and new ones popped up, she shifted from top-down control to a council system, where they all worked together to achieve their goal. She still held the most sway, and was considered something of an unofficial leader, but the burden was not on her alone.

Click to shrink...

I propose said shadow council be named the Las Loyalist Council and a portrait of Las be hung above the Board Meeting Table of Doom.

 

[Chillingbear]

MC didn't get a kiss on the sacred 69 chapter??!?!?!

OP clearly has no soul

 

[DC9]

I recently found this fic and binged watch all the chapters like a crack addict snorting drugs up his bum. And now that i caught up ? Im already in hgih withdrawal

Your fic is some top tier good shit man !

 

[perdarest]

Darna is becoming more and more of an Imperial.

Ironic.

Click to shrink...

She really has brought peace, freedom, justice, and security to her new Empire.

 

[Watching]

That was the insertion point. In a few days, she would be meeting with the leaders of SWEEP, HAVEN, WEB, along with the new Guild Director and Pathline CEO. All, of course, part of the same council.

Click to shrink...

I guess Darna's gathering together her Section 31

 

[Yacov]

Omake: The Imperial Scout and Research Atmospheric Repulsorcraft (ISRAR)

Product Information

Manufacturer:

• Mindan R&D (prototype)
• Mindan Shipyards (limited production run)

Model: Imperial Scout and Research Atmospheric Repulsorcraft

Type: Planetary Science Vessel


Technical Specifications

Diameter: 15 meters

Height: 8 meters

Maximum Acceleration: 150 kph

Maximum Altitude: 50 Km

Engine Unit(s): Repulsorlift generators

Shielding: none

Armament: 3 Stun cannon turrets

Crew: 5 crew and 1 medical droid

Passengers: 5 passengers and 5 specimens

Cargo Capacity: 5 metric tons

Consumables: 1 week

Other systems:

• Organism scaled tractor beam
• Stabilizer technology
• Large amounts of externally mounted scanning and survey equipment and internal electronics suite.
• Expanded Medical/Research Bay
• 5 Force Cages

Usage

Availability: Imperial Government

Roles:

• Research vessel
• Survey craft
• Exploration expeditions

Affiliation: Galactic Empire

——
Description

"This hunk of junk is a slower, less armed, and less maneuverable YT Light Freighter."

"Why the frak are you trying to dogfight with it!? This is a research vessel!" - conversation during the ISRAR's initial test flight

The Imperial Scout and Research Atmospheric Repulsorcraft has been described as a love child between a YT series, a Flarestar-class attack shuttle, and an airspeeder that none of them wanted. A product of the Mindan R&D department, the ISRAR was designed for the collection and research of organisms on pacified Imperial frontier worlds.

Characteristics

"That looks like a flying lab prefab."

"That's because it is a flying lab prefab." - Noted exchange upon delivery of an ISRAR to a Minda-2 research base

The ISRAR's circular saucer shape was chosen to allow for the maximum surface area for external sensor and scanning equipment. Plans for shielding were scrapped due to worries of potential interference it may cause to ISRAR's more sensitive external instruments.

Said instruments also cause the ISRAR to be a giant blinding beacon to anyone with even rudimentary sensors under normal operating conditions. Designers finding little reason to spend credits and manpower hours on subtlety given the remote and "low risk" areas the vessels were expected to work in. A joke among the MSDF navy is that there is little point to installing a distress beacon on an ISRAR, they can detect it from orbit just fine.

The organism scaled tractor beam the ISRAR carries was fine tuned to allow for the collection of (hopefully) non-sentient specimens without necessitating a landing. With the entrance via tractor beam leading to an open area with good sight lines for a quick stun blast should the specimen prove uncooperative.

Three stun cannon turrets were installed as both a method of self defense and a way to acquire specimens from the larger and more aggressive organisms in an environment. Two turrets are located on the bottom of the ship and one on the top. The turrets can be controlled manually or automatically from within the ship given the ship's extensive electronics suite.

Poor acceleration, climbing speed and agility make the ISRAR a poor choice in a dogfight against even militarized airspeeders. The stabilizer technology meant to minimize lab equipment damage has been noted to actively fight against a pilot should they attempt any evasive maneuvering or rapid turns.

Role

"Welcome to Imperial Research Site 23856-B students. Hit up the ISRAR for your shots if you don't want to spend this research trip in the refresher." - Welcome speech given to a a Ugean Academy field trip

The primary intended mission of an ISRAR is to launch from a research facility for a few day and conduct scans and collect samples from the surrounding terrain or sites of interest. Extended missions could be conducted if cargo space reserved for samples was used to store more consumables. The ISRAR could also land and act as the center for a temporary base for any expeditions to take advantage of its research facilities and larger than standard medical bay.

Private interest among traders or military personnel for any export model of the ISRAR has been minimal with a noted disdain among pilots. Although there has been some interest expressed by some big game hunters, academic institutions, and exploration companies should sales to private parties be made available.

——

A little ship I made for the fun of it and to see if I could. Good and cost effective at its assigned niche. Terrible at trying to perform any other role. Could a YT light freighter be converted to do the same job? Probably, but that has vessels wasted being stuck planetside when they could be out trading between systems instead.

I also tried to avoid using advanced ship parts like hyperdrives or complex engines and the like so it could be built completely in house in Minda. Being able to move fast or travel between systems is probably not needed for a vessel dedicated to doing surveying and research from a planetside base.

I would try to find a picture, but I think most people will be able to figure out what look I am going for. This whole thing started because I couldn't get the image of Imperials buzzing Vendari villages in flying saucers out of my head.

Crossposted on SB and SV

 

[Oxycoon]

For both Darna and the organizations she was a part of, that was a fail condition. The Governor may not know of SWEEP, WEB or HAVEN, nor the part Pathline Inc. plays in them, but it is through his actions, policies and attitude that these organizations even exist and operate.

Click to shrink...

Minda truly exemplifies: "Rule through fear, and you need an army. Rule by giving opportunities, and you have an army." Poor Governor isn't even aware of it, and it's fantastic

 

[Yacov]

Omake: Imperial Workforce Reintegration Program

POV: Governor TK-37, Tindom system and planet, Southern Myto Sector along Myto's Arrow

"Listen up Meatbags! The Empire has seen fit to replace your damaged actuators and other inefficient parts!"

Governor TK-37 craned his neck as he watched through M-3PO's photoreceptors as it explained the role of his new investments. Its voice package was chosen to instill maximum obedience. His Omnin Harness was creaking again, indicating it was time for another oiling.

"Naturally this was not done out of misplaced concern or an act of charity. You have been enhanced with the latest in Imperial technology and will be expected to pay back the Empire's generosity in full!"

With a single thought, TK-37 used his Cortical datasplint to bring up the enhancement package for the Imperial Worker Reintegration Program on the display of his Hi-Sense Enhanced Eyes:

Spoiler: Standard IWRP Cybernetics Package

Worker Cybernetics package

Cardio-muscular package 800 credits

Multi-tool hand 650 credits

Vessel Implant 900 credits

Health package 4,250 credits

Biofeedback Regulator 3000 credits

Ion shielding 1000 per implant 5000 total

Total: 14,600 credits for standard IWRP package. Rounded up to 15,000 credits including the trip to Minda. Prosthetic replacement available for 1000-5000 credits per replacement.

It was not as extensive as TK-37's augmentations, but that was to be expected. These workers have not made the sacrifices and honored the Empire as he had done. A more optimized selection was chosen for the workers to maximize efficiency and chances of a return on investment.

"Should you fail to make to make your payments, the Empire has the right to garnish your wages. Even the portion you send back to your dependents!"

The workers flinched at the mention of the leash TK-37 had chosen. He had made sure to specifically pick candidates with dependents to support. Emotional or mind control cybernetics were excluded from the standard package to ensure they retained the emotional capacity to remain tied to Tindom. The exclusion had the added benefit of not spending his precious processing power defending charges of breaching Guild regulations.

"Should you meatbags make the fatal mistake of running out on your obligations to the Empire, the consequences will be swift! Not only will your dependents be saddled with your remaining debt plus a substantial fine, but bounty hunters will be dispatched to "repossess" the Imperial property this theoretical fugitive possesses!"

Scared eyes glanced and hands reached towards arms, legs, faces, or chests depending on what part of their bodies needed replacing. The sentimentality was useful, however illogical. Removal of even the standard package of cybernetics would be lethal to a worker even without the crude abilities of the bounty hunters in removing them.

"Dispatch to the Mindan Shipyards will be in two days, meatbags! Pointlessly tend to your love ones. Memorize the look on their faces and remember their wellbeing depends on your actions. Do. Not. Fail. The Empire."

TK-37 allowed himself to feel a slight satisfaction as the workers filed out of the courtyard as he terminated his connection to the droid. His plans were all coming together and synergized to complement each other. The model of efficiency.

"Lord Governor, a word if you would be so kind."

TK-37 creaked towards the voice and detected a slight flinch in Reef Somtan. Perhaps fearing the noise would be used as an excuse to punish her. The Karkaradon cyberneticist had been granted to him to manage his cybernetics in exchange for a pardon for the crimes she committed in the Clone Wars.

"Of course miss Somtan. State your request."

"Why did you have me and my staff augment those former starport workers if you are just going to send them out of the system? Wouldn't it be better to have them return to working at their former jobs?"

TK-37 determined the question was valid. She was entitled to the truth for her contribution to the IWRP. After all, it was her expertise that made the program possible.

"Those workers were injured working at Tindom's starport due to unsafe working conditions. The Minda system's working conditions are more safety-oriented due to its manpower shortages. Thus sending the cyborgs there leads to a better chance for a return on our investments."

"Couldn't you just make working conditions at the Tindom's starport safer?"

A slight sigh escaped TK-37's lips at Samton's short-sightedness. This is probably why she works with cybernetics, not people. He would put his hand to his head if he still had the limbs to do so. Somtan had offered to install replacements, but it was more efficient to command droid proxies than to do things himself.

"No. Allowing the conditions at the starport to deteriorate to the point it is unsafe was intended on my part. It serves as a useful justification for my Starport Automation Plan to replace inefficient organic positions with droids."

TK-37 had run the numbers multiple times through his AJ^6 cyborg construct. There were a multitude unproductive positions within the starport that could be eliminated and replaced with LE-series repair droids. He had already placed the order for the first batch last month.

The short term expenses of augmenting these workers would be made up for by eliminating wages for those positions long term. Not to mention the ease of repair when a droid loses a limb compared to an organic. Better to let Minda be saddled with the strain of providing the more complicated maintenance to those cyborgs than Tindom.

"I may not be the most aware of Tindom's politics, but even I know the Starport Union isn't going to like the that."

The mention of TK-37's long time political enemies caused muted embers of anger to simmer in his mind. Tindom's entire economy has been based on servicing ships and trade along Myto's Arrow for centuries. So many proposals and upgrades to Tindom's key industries were stifled by those entrenched obstructionists. Keen on clutching to their inefficiencies in the name of worthless traditions and communal history!

For over half a decade they had stymied TK-37's efforts to bring Tindom into the modern age. All previous plans to purge the dissidents would have resulted in the starport becoming inoperable for an unacceptable amount of time. However, Minda's shipyard had given him the opportunity to finally deal with the problem.

"That's the brilliance of the IWRP, miss Samton. By sending the cyborg workers offworld, they can no longer be members of the Union and their families will no longer be supported by Union dues. Supporters for the Union will convert to siding with my efforts to improve the starport to increase travel and trade with Minda.

Especially if I engineer some bureaucratic delays to their packages from the resulting Tindomian off world enclave and blame it on Union practices. News and money sent by their loved ones, unable to reach them due to the Union's backwards methods."

A change of address here, a reprogrammed worker droid there. Such skullduggery will be a simple calculation with TK-37's enhancements and upgrades.

"The delays will be combined with a subsidy for transportation to Minda for those starport workers displaced by the Automation Plan. This will remove the main justifications for the Union's protests and shatter their popular support. Suddenly this group whining about "workers' rights" will be seen as the outdated traditionalists they always were."

Not to mention reducing the Union's membership will make TK-37's moves against the Union easier to justify. The Guild may object if his security force begins bludgeoning a peaceful if disruptive worker strike, but an Aro-GX "apprehending" a few suspects under charges of attempted vandalism in the dead of night?

The waters can be muddied enough to prevent any Guild intervention. Worst comes to worst, TK-37 can always "forget" that Aro-GX's registration, and trigger the deadman wiper he had installed. Those droids are notorious for being on the black market, and Tindom is a thriving stop for starships. Who can say which gang of criminals may have sent it?

"Trust me miss Somtan, all the cogs at set and turning each other. Being oiled with the blood of Tindom's enemies. Soon all of our troublesome equations will be solved."

The man before TK-37 is long gone. The cries of tee-musses and the scent of rootleaf stew so dim that they could no longer surface from the subconscious. Now stands only a loyal cog, purified and optimized for its role. Bending Tindom so that it may fulfill the Empire's purpose forevermore.

——
This time on Shady and Unnecessarily Convoluted Imperial Schemes: attempting to union bust via the cyborgization of the workers before shooting them into space. There is a reasoning here. It is just the reasoning is dumb, motivated by sheer spite, and just a little self defeating. However, what Imperial plan isn't at least a couple of those things? I also wanted an excuse to go looking at all the cool cybernetics Star Wars has.

Crossposted on SB and SV

 

[Freefaller]

Chp-70

Never in my mind did I think I'd make it this far.

Hell, I never wanted to make it this far.

But to think that my biggest current problem is manpower is wild. I mean, for a backwater, half a million people seems like plenty!

It seems, however, that the shipyard disagrees.

I had reviewed and revised the immigration policy to prioritize people with relevant experience, since we couldn't afford to house and feed everyone who came in. I have thus far avoided a homelessness problem, and I won't let one start now.

The problem arose when the Moff decided to increase the backlog to 500 ships! Seems to me he's making a lot of promises that hinge on the yards working. It's not politically sound to put all your eggs in one basket. I wonder why he's doing it then?
Thankfully, Oioro, deadly spy/negotiator that she is, has seen some initial success in negotiations for that fly in/fly out idea through the Guild. It would be easier, with new systems joining regularly, but it would still take time.

Unfortunately, that left her too busy to go with me to Dubrillion, where the first official Guild meeting was happening.

The Moff had 'suggested' this, but the message was clear.

Minda may be first among equals in the Guild, but the Moff is above all. It also created an air of neutrality among the members.

Now, I was afforded a plus one to the whole thing. Oioro would've been my first pick, and Darna my second.

Both were busy, however. Oioro with the aforementioned business, and Darna with a new wave of crime/cartels on Edin. She had started to implement softer policies, what with the criminal element mostly gone. Hidden elements took this, along with the attacks on Minda, as weakness. That left her busy.

So, Veers. Oioro and Darna would've had reason to be there, with the former being a negotiator and the latter my vice, while Grant has no real reason. Veers, however, defends the Edin/Minda routes. She has a vested stake in the Guild's shipping.

And, if we play our cards right, she might get more responsibility in that role. Which will give Minda more leverage in Guild politics.

I don't necessarily want to be in total political control, it seems like a way to piss people off. But I know what other Governors are like, and if I don't secure a good position for Minda, and myself, I could see some serious problems cropping up down the line.

Regardless, I had a meeting to get to.

The flight to Dubrillion was relatively quiet. It was done in Veers Gladiator, as a statement/show of power. It was likely the most powerful of the ships brought by the other members. Shal was left to reinforce Edin.

And now, I was walking into the meeting room.

It was time to play the political game once again.

-

Agent Raxus

As an Agent of newly appointed Grand Moff Adrus Kaine, Raxus (not his real name) had been sent to the Myto sector to observe and gain a basic understanding of its operations. Agents had been sent discreetly to just about every sector in the newly expanded Oversector Outer so the Grand Moff could have a more grounded, realistic understanding of each sector, and to catalog any anomalies.

Which explained why Raxus was on Dubrillion, dressed as an administrative aide, entering a meeting hall.

The meeting hall was a grandiose place. A tall ceiling with large, ostentatious pillars and fine drapes of red and black, sewn with the Imperial Crest covering the walls. All from the Core, of course.

It was a place that was clearly built to project the power of the owner to those within, commissioned by the previous Moff. Something the new owner was taking full advantage of.

Moff Aren Hiral was new to this level of the political scene, and yet had conducted himself masterfully from everything Raxus had been able to access.

Yet, he wasn't here.

Despite more than a dozen Governors being present at the Guilds first meeting, the Moff wasn't.

He didn't need to be.

The meeting wasn't taking place in Guild HQ, it was taking place in Dubrillion. In the capital city. In a meeting room that was worth more than many colonies.

In the center of the room sat a large circular table, polished durasteel in stark contrast to the marble and fine metals the rest of the room was made out of. It looked out of place.

It was.

The original table had been long, with a single seat at the end. It had been moved by request in exchange for a circular durasteel table with a holoprojector in the center.

Specifically, at the request of Governor Las Mola.

He sat at the table, wearing a standard Governors uniform in grey. The only modification was a series of thin metal plates affixed to the uniform, a series of interlinked triangles that weaved into the fabric so well it was hard to tell where metal ended and silk began. He exuded an air of quiet dominance, where no grandiose luxury or fancy words were needed to seem as if he had everything under control.

To his right sat Mola's Commodore, Ife Veers. Daughter of well known General Veers, who had gotten caught up in inter-branch political rivalries. She struck a more imposing figure than the Governor with her sharp, pitch black uniform and steely, almost predatory gaze. It fit well with her growing reputation of brutal efficiency and ruthless effectiveness against pirates.

Raxus took a seat at one of the small side tables set aside for administrative aides who were there to run numbers on site and manage other tasks. His recorder was activated quickly and quietly.

Soon, the meeting started as the final members trickled in. A little over a dozen Governors sat at the table, the air abuzz with a mix of wariness and ambition.

"Good afternoon, everyone. Thank you for making the trip, and allow me to welcome you all to the inaugural meeting of the Imperial Guild of Commerce, Production and Protection." Started Mola.

"While the basics of the Guild have functioned well enough, we are here today to discuss the future operations of the Guild, and how its resources should be allocated to ensure the continued operation and profit of all members."

The Governor turned towards the Commodore, who stood, back straight, eyes like steel. Her gaze swept across the table, causing some members to stiffen slightly.

"Intelligence reports a nearly 10% increase in piracy in the past 6 months. While the impacts have been minimal so far, the criminal element seems to have become emboldened as of late. Attacks will only get worse, cutting into the Guilds profit and security."

As the various Governors contemplated this, whispering amongst themselves, Governor Las spoke once more with an even tone.

"Therefore, I wish to propose an expansion of the Guild's operational fees to incorporate a new branch of patrol vessels. These ships and their crews will patrol the lanes between member systems to discourage piracy and ensure smoother, safer trade."

He tapped a few times on the terminal in front of him, presumably sending a copy to every other member's terminal.

"Please, review it. Any modifications or suggestions are welcome."

Hmm. An open policy of sorts. Mola seems to want power, or at the very least show dominance over the Guild, but still asks for the other members' opinions? Odd.

The other members took a minute to look over the draft before one spoke up.

"An interesting proposal, Governor. However…I have a slight concern." Spoke Trylid Vance, Governor of Veridian Prime. It was a fairly rich system near Dubrillion, and one that dealt mostly in luxury goods to other systems. Vance's family was old, having controlled the system since the time of the Old Republic, with their luxury brands benefitting from the influx of Imperial officers/nobility who wished to maintain some level of luxury in the outer rim.

His involvement with the Guild was likely an attempt to retain control of his market and have a hand in the new rising power. Either to benefit from it, or curtail it if needed.

"My current concern is how this proposal benefits us all. After all, some systems, such as my own, already hold a suitable amount of patrol craft that are fully capable of handling this increase in banditry. Why would this assist us?" His voice was smooth and professional, but he still went straight to the point. They were here for business, after all. Not politics.

Before Mola could respond, another Governor spoke up.

"Because not all of us can defend our lanes as well. Not at the moment, at least." And there was Kyra Godran, Governor of Draxons Forge. A more recently settled system that was rich in resources but not infrastructure. Her agenda was obvious. Draxons Forge needed money, money that was being tied up due to pirates.

If the system doesn't make enough money, it can't expand. If it can't expand, it won't make enough money. And without money, it can't protect its lanes.

"Increased security will benefit all systems as well. Those pirates will keep taking more unless we show them the Guild isn't to be messed with!" She was fiery, that much was certain. A product of her newer status and the need for rapid, sometimes reckless expansion.

It was then that a third spoke up. Hranton Fogess was a corpulent man who kept meticulous ledgers. He controlled Slundus, which sat on the Veragi Trade Route and saw consistent traffic. Like many who sat on routes like that, his goals aligned more with consistent transit and the stability of trade.

"Both of you bring good points, but I believe the main issue is equitability. How will these costs be spread, and will the patrol vessels themselves be suitable? Will the security coverage be equitable amongst member systems, particularly for those whose main profit comes from transit specifically? And what of oversight, how can we know that these funds will be used properly?"

Mola nodded. "That is a good point, Governor Fogess, and I believe it should be the current topic of discussion. If the ships are built in the new Mindan yards, the cost will be decreased, and I am willing to shoulder the upfront cost myself. However, operational costs will be the main topic. As for oversight, I agree. Transparency is key. Any ideas on how to ensure such a thing are welcome."

From there, they delved into more rigorous discussion, involving more and more members as time went on.

Things like patrol zones, tiered responses, optional fee's to escort precious cargo without burdening other systems, and more.

Frankly speaking, if it wasn't his job to analyze the sector, Raxus would've fallen asleep. In fact, some Governors, more concerned with politics than economics, seemed poised to take impromptu naps by the end of the nearly 5 hour meeting.

Only hourly breaks kept people from, well, breaking.

By the end of it all, Raxus had a fairly comprehensive report to send back to the grand Moffs office.

The Myto sector still had more to look over, but as it stands, the Guild is no threat. An economic alliance, yes. One that has a patrol arm, yes. But considering the de facto head of said arm will be a Navy Commodore, with the Moff clearly emphasizing his control over the situation, the Guild is unlikely to grow out of control.

Raxus doubted the report would ever grace the Grand Moffs eyes, but it was still his duty to send it.

Hopefully, the rest of the assignment would be as boring as this. He'd heard horror stories of some of the other sectors, after all.

-

Wrote this while listening to bangers like Starship Velociraptor and Sorario Days, which contain far too much hype for a chapter that is essentially just a boardroom meeting and office politics.

Oh, and Raxus will not be a recurring character. So don't ask.

As always, feedback and commentary is appreciated.

Thanks for reading!

-Freefaller

 

[CreepyUncleLuke]

Holy shit. No wonder the Guild is so successful, it's made up of sensible, if greedy, people. Unlike literally everywhere else. I can't imagine such a calm meeting in the Banking Clans.

 

[Profilozof]

Oh this is how better senate is born

 

[Arrowthorne]

Minda may be first among equals in the Guild, but the Moff is above all. It also created an air of neutrality among the members.

Click to shrink...

You know....

The last time someone was 'First among equals' it didn't end well....

Let's hope Las learns from the Cameron's mistakes.