A portly man, dressed in a robe of purple and gold came huffing and puffing towards the congregation of dignitaries. He was late meeting the party, thus the sweating mass that pooled before the robot space ninja and his gang. He was of the Lowen species, his check wattles folding at thick angles while he tried to draw in his labored breath.

He bowed and dipped before the delegates, apologizing for his tardiness and requesting that they follow him to the administrator of the city, a human called Lutz. "If you have any questions about Commenor or our commerce, I will be happy to answer them!" He wheezed in an excited whine while trying to remain polite.

*The Shard eyed the rather plump newcomer with interest, mainly because he'd never seen a fat Lowen before. He supposed they could exist, there was certainly nothing that prevented it biologically. Such was his interest that he almost completely missed the fact that the fellow had spoken.*

"What the hell? Erm, I mean, hello."

*Almost as one, Eralam's diplomatic corps facepalmed. Their boss was well liked, but so uncouth at times that it made them wonder if they really were getting paid enough.*

If the oddities of the shard upset the Lowen, the result did not show on the fat man's face. It was a glandular problem after all, and it could not be helped on the man's current salary. "Administrator Lutz sent me to greet you, sir. I am to aid you in whatever you need while you stay here on Commenor and offer any information that you require. Lutz will be able to see you this afternoon at the fourteenth hour. He would like to express an invitation for dinner tonight as well if your attendants and yourself would approve."

*Again, Eralam was thoroughly nonplussed by the strange fellow. Who the kriff offers a droid food?*

"Right....I'm sure my comrades in diplomacy would welcome a meal. I fed them last week, but they keep saying that they need sustenance more often. Personally I think they're full of Sithspit, but it is true we haven't seen the genetically modified sentient nerf in days."

*The facepalms turned into uncomfortable shuffling of the feet. While it wasn't strictly true that Eralam accidentally starved his workers, he could be neglectful of their biological needs at times. And that nerf really had been missing for quite some time...*

The little man was taken aback. He had just been promoted from his position as a page in the department handling algae growth in the office holding pond. It was expected that he slip up, but he had not been thinking things through when he spoke, even though he was just going through the instructions he was given. He huffed and puffed and felt his job flap a little before words were able to fill the space. "We will attend to whatever needs you and your staff may need, whether it be food or other mechanical means of sustenance. Needless to say, Administrator Lutz would like to hold several meetings with you and your staff, one for business and one at a more leisurely setting." The little man prided himself somewhat on his attempt to save the situation.

*The Shard decided to cut the little guy a break. The stress hormones the fellow was pumping out were enough to start to bog down his olfactory processor.*

"Very well. The main bulk of planetary negotiations are finished, so we'd love to speak with Administrator Lutz concerning the day to day running of the world."

*Given the near simultaneous expressions of relief from the diplomats in Eralam's party, one would almost think they possessed a hive mind. In reality, they all came from the same prestigious university on Dressel, and had all worked together for many years. The last few years had been under Eralam, a welcome relief from the self-titled "Overlord" of the distant past, but working with the Shard was still unnerving. Though there were none in the party that could claim more than a minor (and unknown) connection to the Force, they were all familiar enough to be disturbed by the sight of this droid in action. On more than one occasion his combat prowess had saved their collective hide from death or imprisonment, but they never got used to it. Nor had they ever really gotten used to Eralam's other idiosyncrasies, though they learned to live with them all the same.*

*Within the city, one of the more grandeur high rises was home to a number of expensive lofts. As the city was also home to quite a few sizable sport leagues, many of the overpaid players owned residences within the building. Thus with so many prominent figures possessing lodgings in the high rise, security on the main floor was exceptionally tight.* *Nem didn't particularly care for the chunk of change it had taken out of his wallet to temporarily afford one of the flats, but the pre-furnished room more than suited his needs.* *Room 413 was groomed to an immaculate sheen, dressed in what could only be described as opulent overkill. Paintings from Alderaan, statues from Clack'dor VII, and so on and so forth.*

*Nem waited on the balcony, staring out at the hustle and bustle of civilized infidel society. Unlike his usually more practical cloakers, the Intendant was garbed in a shimmering glistaweb robe that parted slightly mid chest to reveal a number of surgical scars and ritual tattoos. His hands were clasped behind his back in a relaxed manner. The disfigured features of his face were a stark contrast to his fanciful garb, yet he did nothing to conceal them as he usually would.* *Xeonon already knew who he was dealing with. There was no point in facade.*

*So he stood there and waited for the arrival of his guest.*

*Xeonon raced through the atmosphere weaving in between the local traffic and enjoying the thrill of diplomatic immunity. Had he been doing this on one of his world there would have been an awsome chase with the local law enforcement just to see their faces when he gave up. However he had a reason to be going fast, he was to meet a key figure of a hated race. As the apartment grew infront of him Xeonon slowed down and landed on the roof.

Opening the locked door on the roof he went to the closest floor and sighed in relief he was on the right floor.*

Where are you 413... Where are you?

*After a few minutes of walking he found the room on the complete opposite side of the building; knocking on the door he waited for a response. As he waited he felt odd, normally when he donned his blood red suit of armour it was to kill but this time it was for peace.*

*A knock at the door alerted the Intendant to the arrival of his guest. He turned his head and glanced towards the wooden portal, making a last minute consideration about whether or not this was an appropriate course of action to pursue. Accepting that it was, he nodded his head resolutely and made his way over to the door. Disabling the lock mechanism, he took hold of the handle and swung the heavy door open. His crimson mqaaq'it immediately settled on Xeonon, the only occupant currently in the hall.*

*Armour for peace talks? Hmm, this was clearly a warrior he was dealing with then. Good, he was familiar with the type and knew how to appeal to their better nature. Granted this was a human and not a Yuuzhan Vong warrior caste member, but there were enough similarities between the two that he felt it wouldn't be a problem.*

"Greetings Xeonon Solomon. As I am sure you have surmised, I am Nem of Domain Yin, Executor of the Praetorite Vong. At the university I had the pleasure of meeting several of your soldiers. The Fel Empire makes them tough, that much is certain." *He stepped aside and motioned to the rooms interior.* "Please come inside. What we have to discuss is not for prying ears."

*Inside the loft was a pair of couches set apart by a glass table. The Intendant was quick to take a seat at the couch that overlooked the front door, then drew his arm from Xeonon to the other couch, gesturing for him to take a seat.*

"Forgive me, but how is it that I should address you? I am uncertain of your official title."

*Although he knew his reason for being here this was his first time actually seeing a Vong in person, and no matter how much you look at pictures and holograms it can never fully prepare you. Xeonon did his best to avoid staring at the ritual scars on Nems chest but he made no attempt to hide himself looking.*

It's a pleasure Executor Yin, thanks we try our best to make them last.

*Stepping inside he was surprised to see it much like any normal suite and not some dark Vong like room. Sitting down in the couch opposite Nem tenitivly afraid he may break it under the combined weight of him and his armour.*

I usually go by knight Solomon, but feel free to call me Xeonon. May I assume you would like Executor Yin?

*Always being one for formalities...*

"Executor will suffice." *He said swiftly.* "Ranks differ by society and culture, but I have always found it important to emphasis one's position with verbal cue. It is a belief bestowed on my people from the second they are plucked from their mother's bosom. Title is everything."

*He leaned forwards, clasping his hand together beneath his chin while resting his elbows of his knees. There was ample luminescence in the room from the overhead lighting, but even still his eye implants cast a crimson haze wherever he directed his vision. Unlike the rest of his glowing sockets, his irises were solid black, like obsidian stones floating in a frothing sea of molten fury. He grinned, causing his skeletal features to tighten as the pale grey skin of his face pulled taut.*

"But we're not here to discuss cultural differences. It troubles me to learn my people had a hand in the demise of your Empire's patriarch. Would that I could erase that stain on our shared history, as I would with many other atrocities the Yuuzhan Vong have committed, yet these events have already been carved on a canvas of flesh and blood. None the less, I would not see it be a source of resentment any further than it has been and may still be." *The dark purple eye-sacs beneath his mqaaq'it began to pulse.* "Is there an amends to be made for this? We are not what we once were, nor do I feel we should suffer for all that we have done. If your Empire would be willing to forgive this past transgression, Knight Solomon, I do believe we can be of greater service to you than mere fodder for your guns."

*Xeonon nodded his understanding.*

If I can be frank with you I am just uneasy with my new title after the unfourtanite death of another leader there were not many left to take the helm.

*Try to make it look like he was not creeped out by the figure infront of him, Xeonon raised his arms and put them both over the back of the couch. He wanted to put his feet up on the glass table ad well but was afraid he would look to casual plus he may break it.*

Yes that is a rather bleak part of the descent for the empire but that was a little before my time in it. Take it from me those in charge will hold no I'll will and those that do won't mention it.

*Sitting forward much like the man in front of him he took on a grim demeanor.*

As you may have seen though the grunts and soliders may not be easily persuaded... Especially those that witnessed it. If I really had the heart for it I would try extorting you but I doubt it would get me anywhere. *A low short chuckle left him.* but all past things are forgiven. What do you mean by more than cannon fodder?

*It all sounded exactly like he had expected it to. The Fel Empire wasn't interested in retribution, just as Fenix had stated earlier. Frankly he had already assumed as much. If the Empire had truly wanted vengeance then they would have sought it shortly after the act had been committed. That they had not chosen to do so made their stance on the matter clear, but to be honest, it had never truly been a concern. The event was an excuse to engage the leadership of the Empire in discussion. So far so good. The real trick would be to see how they felt about his following proposal.*

"Exortion?" *Queried Nem in a bemused tone.* "You surprise me, Knight Solomon. That's the sort of tactic I would use if the chance presented itself, though I can't say I expected it from an Imperial. Perhaps we have more in common than I previously believed." *He relaxed his posture, reclined back in his seat and rested his hands in his lap.* "Regardless, I am pleased to hear there are no hard feelings. As for our usefulness to you..."

*He reached into the front right lapel of his robe and retrieved his qahsa personal device. A flat rectangular shaped pad with smoothed edges and a screen, the organic computer was unremarkable, yet it served as an integral part of the Intendant's equipment. He ran a spindly finger across the surface of its lit up screen, scrolling through menus and applications until he found the item he sought. Leaning forwards, he placed the computer on the glass table between them and pushed it towards the middle. Light erupted from the screen a moment later as the blaze bugs within the device began to project a hologram. The imagery depicted was that of the Praetorite fleet, currently resting in orbit around Iridonia's second moon.*

"There is a war brewing, my friend. As much as I have tried to deny it, all evidence points to a coming conflict between the Galactic Republic and the disavowed Sith Empire. I only know about the existence of the latter thanks to a ranking member of the Sith who spoke of it freely. Suffice it to say the Praetorite finds this troubling, enough so to take steps to prepare for it where and when it cannot be avoided. We have no interest in taking a side, but history has made clear that few if any can escape galaxy spanning conflicts such as this. So we continue to prepare, acquiring resources and allies wherever we can. That's why I have asked you here today."

*There was a brief pause as Nem let the ominous tone of the discussion sink in. Then he continued.*

"I want to make a deal. The Praetorite has a spy network with links to a number of different worlds and useful individuals. We would be willing to supply your Empire with any relevant information we come across, as well as put our contacts to work for you if needed. Furthermore, we would be willing to lend you the support of our fleet, which while modest, presents an edge all its own. A secret weapon, if you will, that few if any could predict. In exchange, we would want access to the Deep Core where I am told most of your Empire's holdings are located. We have no interest in taking what's yours. Just access and safe passage, nothing more."

You would be surprised how completely different species are of like minded thinking.

*Xeonon watched as the living machine was taken out and showed a Vong fleet. It was not everyday he saw this type of marvel so as he stared at it he nearly missed what was being said to him. Looking into the depths of those blood red eyes his face hardened but his posture relaxed.*

War... War never changes. Although the players may change the effects of it are always the same, and by the sounds of it this one will be no different. What troubles me is that a Sith Empire has grown under the nose of so many yet I am just hearing this now, it just means they are organized and that makes them more dangerous to all.


*Of all the ways he imagined this talk going this was not one of them, but it made sense. Who would want to talk about a past event in order to bring some sort of inner peace to themself. Mulling over the proposition he finally figured out the best course of action.*

An alliance of sorts... Would work to both of our benefits I would think. You are free to enter the space we hold, I would offer what information we have but to be honest it's not the best, especially as of late.

*Nem nodded once, halting his head at the bottom of the bow and placing his hands together beneath his chin, his fingers immediately intertwining.* *That Xeonon understood the seriousness of what the Intendant had told him was a very good sign. He remembered reading a report from Prefect Ur Skell about witnessing the Imperial Knight on Pzob in the presence of the Sith that resided there. Though they were not associated with the Sith Empire to his knowledge, it still meant he needed to be cautious how he presented his case. The last thing he wanted to do was forewarn an enemy in the attempt to gain an ally.* *His skeletal jaw opened slightly, then clasped together in an audible bony crack. He then continued.*

"Unfortunately I know nothing of their numbers or plans, only that they merely exist. It could be that they will remain silent for the next few years, or they may have already massed an invasion fleet. My contact, a Grand Kissai no less, has promised to lend me whatever his political influence gains him. In time I intend to take him up on that offer and get someone on their home world, wherever that may be. I'm guessing Korriban. The Sith have always flocked to that desolate husk. Where else could it possibly be?"

*His last question was rhetorical. There were a number of other historically significant Sith worlds, but none so important to their twisted religion as Korriban.*

"I've already spoken with the Chiss. They seem as resolute as I about avoiding the Sith, as well as the Republic. Personally I have no qualms with the Republic, but they are at too great a risk of corruption. That's why I want you on our side. You aren't Jedi or Sith. That makes you levels above in terms of trustworthiness. You care as much for your own people as the Praetorite and the Ascendency care for theirs." *He shrugged his shoulders.* "And it is not like I'm asking you to come to our aid. Our borders are our own to defend, as is to be respected the sovereignty we hold over our domains. What I want is relatively simple. As your kind would put it: we scratch your back, you scratch ours."

*There was a passionate gleam in his eye, inflamed by a devout belief in all that he had claimed.* *Even a cold and unsympathetic race such as the Yuuzhan Vong could fall victim to the romantic elements of patriotism. And that's what he was above all else. Nem the pirate, politician, and patriot.*

"So since you have already given me permission to enter the regions your Empire holds, what do you say about the rest? Can we make this proposal legitimate?"

*Xeonon raised his hand to his chin and stroked it contemplating if he should divulge information on what he knew about the sith and decided it was in his best intrests.*

Executor, this may or may not help but I have been in contact with two sith in the past few months. One the leader of NOE, I doubt is involved. However there was another by the name of Jayden. He is smart, once a member of the Fel Empire he turned to the sith. I visited him on Ryloth and they had made enemies with someone, and spoke of moving to a more isolated location. I have not seen or heard from him since perhaps he is involved in some way.

*Rolling his neck it made a loud pop and he sighed.*

Sorry that's been bugging me for a while now. This Chiss have always been the kind that sticks to themselves, if they are willing to cooperate they must also sense the seriousness. Rule under the sith is no good, at least the Republic leave us to our own wills. Nor am I asking you to come to ours but if the sith come knocking feel free to ask for help.

*This time there was no thought process to it.*

Sharing of information, on these sith at the very least seems like a great idea. Although I would have no problems having the support of your ships my men may find it weird, but it would be amazing to say the least. Are we good simply on the honor system or should we go the whole nine yards?

*The Intendant already knew about the Fel Empire's contact with the NOE, having themselves come into contact with the mysterious Sith shortly after. But the news about Jayden, that was something he didn't know about, though it didn't surprise him. Sith had a way of manipulating people into switching sides and serving their Order. That's what made them such a dangerous enemy. Silver tongued as an Intendant, smart as a Shaper, crafty as a Priest, and lethal as a Warrior. They took the best traits from each of the various Yuuzhan Vong castes, yet possessed few of their weaknesses. Disheartening to say the least.*

"I am sorry to hear about the loss of your comrade. He's likely either dead or converted by their zealotry. Rarely has one of their converts been redeemed, though it is possible. When I start planting agents among the Sith I will have them investigate the matter." *He shook his head.* "I wouldn't get my hopes up."

*He folded his arms over his chest, tilting his head slightly to the side as he considered Xeonon's offer.* *For years he had believed the longevity of his race depended on secrecy, yet he could not deny the notion of strength in numbers. Still, he had made it clear to Aristocra Prarr'ebecc'aelios that he neither wanted nor required their aid in defending the Yuuzhan Vong colonies in the Unknown Regions. The last thing he wanted was to become dependant on others, so for now that would remain the case, even when offered by the Fel Empire.* *Offering a weak smile, he continued.*

"You are generous, Xeonon. I shall consider your offer of aid, though only under the most dire of circumstances would we likely request it. For the moment the Unknown Regions are quiet, forgotten by the rest of the galaxy, which is how I wish to keep it. My race still suffers from a culture poisoned by eons of war. It is only in our isolation that we have been able to heal as much as we have. Plus, we have come to enjoy the privacy it affords."

*Placing a hand on the seat and arm of the sofa, Nem pushed himself to his feet and extended his arm across the table. He offered his hand to Xeonon, remembering well that human's tended to like to shake their appendages as a gesture of friendship.*

"Knight Solomon, you strike me as a man of your word, so I will not ask for a written contract. Though I can not make the same claim of myself, being something of a scoundrel by reputation, you have my word that I will abide by what is agreed to here today."