849, Merits
"If the Plague is to undergo a complete overhaul, it will need to be towed back to the Titan shipyard on Yag'Dhul." Helmut Zemo stood before Tang Xiao, holding a document as he reported. "But the Givin situation is delicate right now. The Galactic Republic Senate is demanding that an investigative delegation be sent to look into their large-scale warship construction."
Tang Xiao waved a hand. "There is no need to worry about Yag'Dhul's defenses. It is a three-body system. Although its three stars are relatively stable, making it nowhere near as uninhabitable as in that famous novel, the complex gravitational environment is still unsuitable for deploying large fleets. The two Agonev-class star bases we built there will be more than enough to make the Republic bleed."
"So you are prepared to have the Givin openly join the Confederacy of Independent Systems?" Zemo asked.
"That outcome is inevitable."
"Then the Plague..."
"It still has nothing to do with the Givin. Tow it to Port Pament."
Helmut Zemo was startled. "Tow it to Port Pament? Isn't that... Wait..."
He immediately understood Tang Xiao's intent and broke into a smile. "I have to say, this move is truly brilliant."
"Since you understand, go make the arrangements."
"Yes..."
Tang Xiao rose to his feet, straightened his clothes, and opened a communication channel. The hologram flickered before projecting an elderly man of tall, upright stature and vigorous bearing, dressed in a black cloak.
The leader of the Confederacy of Independent Systems, Count Dooku.
Tang Xiao smiled faintly and inclined his head. "Count Dooku, I have come to report a tremendous victory that has just taken place."
"Though I have heard something of it, hearing such news from your own lips is what truly makes it astounding... I await it with great respect."