The negotiations get off to a rocky start

Days since start of the negotiations: 1

The diplomatic negotiations commenced within the confines of Elara's senatorial suite. She harbored a sense of unease about the chosen location: any negotiator of merit would typically opt for a more impartial setting. If this encounter was to culminate in an **** attempt, it seemed illogical to stage it in her office. Moreover, if his intentions were indeed sincere negotiation, why select her territory? The situation stirred wariness within her.

As she entered her office, Elara found herself confronted with the towering and grotesque figure awaiting her. This was an unkempt beast of a man, whose very aura reeked of repugnant body odor.

He was a monstrous embodiment of unfettered masculinity, his presence instantly igniting a sense of unease that gnawed at her composure. She endeavored to greet him with a warm smile, all the while suppressing the acidic surge of revulsion that threatened to creep up her throat at his sight and proximity.

"Let us commence without delay.” Elara began “We insist that the Sith Empire halt all unwarranted incursions into the sovereign territories of Geldof forthwith. We mandate that the Sith acknowledge and respect the liberties of those seeking refuge from Sith dominion. Lastly, we urge the cessation of arms supply and financial support to political entities and radical enthusiasts of Sith ideology, employed as tools to advance your empire's objectives."

“What a forceful bitch that doesn’t understand her bargaining position” Zax thought to himself, but he concealed his contempt beneath a veneer of diplomacy. "I appreciate your perspective," he began, his voice steady and measured. "This is indeed a complex situation. While this may shock you, I am actually in agreement with your stance, which ironically, makes me an undesirable element within the Sith ranks."

His primary goal in this initial exchange was to prolong the negotiations. An abrupt conclusion would spell disaster for him; however, each subsequent meeting provided him with more opportunities to manipulate her unsuspecting psyche.

As he spoke, he channeled his dark powers into Elara's mind. He began to subtly twist her first impression of him. He was rewiring her initial wary associations of him with that of one of trust. She didn’t have to like him yet, but she did have to believe he could bring something to the table.

"I am well aware of how the Sith operate, Zax” Elara spat, “You are an empire that has no interest in peace. You are a vicious group of slavers who want to endlessly expand your territory and don’t care who you grind up to do it.”

Zax artfully masked his genuine reaction, contorting his features into a caricature of wounded innocence. "Such accusations may hold true for some within my ranks, but I stand apart as a mere businessman," he rumbled in his coarse tone, "the Sith you reference trespass upon your domain and gamble with the prospect of war against the Republic. I, however, am a pragmatist. Yes, I am involved in the trade of sentient beings, yet can we not align our objectives? These belligerent Sith are detrimental to commerce and stoke the fires of conflict. In any clash between the Republic and the Sith Empire, Geldof would find itself ensnared in the crossfire and reduced to rubble. Could we not join forces to safeguard our respective populations?"

Ironically, Zax was arguably the most aggressive Sith in existence. He held no regard for boundaries, laws, or even commerce; his only interest lay in power. Yet, his posture as a moderate served to perpetuate a beneficial illusion that would extend these negotiations.

Elara sat with her lips tightly drawn together. Zax's words resonated with logic. She was aware of the internal divisions within the Sith Empire. Wouldn't it be strategic to exploit this discord? "He appears trustworthy," she found herself thinking unexpectedly. The initial unease she had felt upon their first encounter had dissipated. "This is someone you could potentially collaborate with."

"Alright, Zax," Elara began, "If our goals align, what is the next course of action?"

Zax flashed a smile at her inquiry – she had swallowed the bait.

"Well, matters will require some time on my end," he admitted candidly. "I'll strive to expedite the process as best I can. However, it falls upon you to pacify your constituents' sentiments. Assure them of the Sith Empire's reasonableness and potential for cooperation. I understand their current **** and warlike tendencies; we need to temper those feelings."

With a nod of affirmation, Zax hoisted his bulky figure from his seat.

"Senator Vossyn," he addressed her formally, "it has been an honor."

"The feeling is mutual," Elara responded as she extended her hand for a handshake. "I eagerly anticipate our upcoming meeting," she declared firmly.