Re: Balmorra: Plots and Machinations
Sarai was only slightly taken aback. She had not expected her goal to be so easy to achieve; of course, it was a welcome development, and the Jedi had delivered the Balmorrans right into her hand. Whenever that analogy came to mind, she reflexively thought of the literal equivalent, holding something in hand, in this case people. She folded her hands together and rubbed the palm of her left hand with her right thumb for a moment, another reflexive habit.
Then she rested her hands on the table.
"Lord Deikun, I could say that you need not worry, that your people and their way of life will remain, unchanged and unmolested, but as you are honest with me, so shall I be honest with you. I believe, of course, that you have made the correct choice, for your own sake and your people.
I ask you to understand, sir, that I am not a fool. War is not a game, not something to be played at. The wise avoid it whenever possible. The Republic, however, is not wise. You yourself surely know that democracy is prone to fits of irrational rage, and in their conviction that their way is superior to all others, they will destroy everything that offends their sensibilities. Were it not so, I would be content to build wealth and prestige for myself and my charges without releasing the dogs of war."
She stood up, to emphasize her new-found dominance, and spread out her hands, just enough to include both men at the table.
"I cannot promise you peace. I can, however, promise you that your people, above all else, shall survive. To that end, we must begin preparations immediately.
There will be those who loathe your decision and try to undermine our alliance, of course, and so we must move quickly to engage a campaign of public relations, make an announcement of investiture, and construct orbital fortifications and planetary shields. Whether the Republic declares their intent to conquer now or simply sends saboteurs, Balmorra will be protected either way."
I dunno if I should roll anything.