Chương 19: The Foundations of the New UNSC
When he arrived at the hall, he saw that the Jedi Council was present, including Master Yoda and Mace Windu, as well as senators from several planets, including Padmé Amidala and Bail Organa. The greetings were brief; everyone knew they had much to discuss.
Senator Bail Organa was the first to speak: "Admiral Arnet, although the Senate has decided to cooperate with the UNSC on a limited basis, many of us find your warning realistic. We know that our forces are stretched thin and that your assistance could be essential to our survival."
Arnet remained silent as he listened, scanning the faces of those present. The Jedi, serene, listened without judgment. Among the senators, he sensed a mix of concern and determination.
"We are here," Organa continued, "to understand what the UNSC truly needs to meet this threat."
Arnet motioned to his side, and Serina's hologram appeared in the middle of the room, projecting a series of files and diagrams. The AI wasted no time in speaking in a firm, clear tone. "The UNSC needs a support structure to sustain its operation here. We require a solid economic base, factories, supply infrastructure, and basic resources that will allow us to subsist in your galaxy. In addition, we need to recruit personnel, whether in civilian or military positions, to maintain our forces."
Some of the senators looked at each other, surprised by the magnitude of the request. But it was Senator Bail Organa who answered: "Alderaan has already accepted hundreds of thousands of refugees who have lost their homes. Perhaps these displaced people could find a new purpose in the UNSC."
Another senator, from Mon Cala, chimed in. "We can offer resources in manufacturing materials and supporting technology, but we would need time to organize and formalize the alliance."
Padmé Amidala stepped forward, adding: "Naboo is also willing to help. I can authorize the use of resources on one of our moons for the UNSC to establish a base in neutral territory, where they can build what is necessary for their operation."
Serina displayed on the holotable a chart of the required resources and infrastructure plans, providing precise details of what the construction of an operational base would entail. "The UNSC will be self-sufficient to the extent that it has access to the resources mentioned. With the proper support, our soldiers and fleet will be able to maintain the offensive against the Covenant."
Master Yoda, who had remained silent, spoke at last, his eyes narrowed, filled with wisdom. "To protect this galaxy, new allies may be essential. But I have one important question: what future are you fighting for, Admiral Arnet?"
Arnet looked at the Jedi Master and, with a calm that exuded the confidence of a soldier, replied, "We fight to prevent the Covenant from conquering more worlds. We are forged to withstand what others cannot face. Our future, Jedi Master, is one where our families and their planets do not have to fear total destruction."
At the determination in the admiral's words, some of the senators nodded, understanding the gravity of the commitment they were about to make.
Arnet looked around at the audience with his typical military seriousness and added, "For this collaboration to be effective, everything will be conducted under UNSC supervision. That includes any ships we build, any personnel we choose, and any defense strategy we implement. This is an all-out war, and we must keep our resources in expert hands. Everything will be done under our protocols, our command structure, and following our criteria."
Serina projected a hologram of the Orbital Defense Platforms, imposing, advanced structures that seemed to float above the planets in the simulations. "If you agree," the AI explained, "these platforms can be built in orbit of your strategic planets. They are extremely effective against Covenant ships, and will be your best defense in the event of a massive attack. However, the exact functioning of these platforms will remain classified for security reasons."
Watching the projection, the senators began exchanging looks filled with wonder and speculation. Defense platforms were exactly what many systems needed to feel protected, especially now that the Covenant threat was becoming more palpable. Arnet took advantage of the attention.
"This is not just technology, it is a commitment to you. We are responsible for its operation and defense; it will be an unwavering protection against the Covenant," Arnet added, his tone making it clear that the security and autonomy of the UNSC were as important as the resources they offered.
A Corellian senator raised his voice. "Admiral, I understand that technology and its secrets must be protected, but what kind of guarantees do we have that this aid will truly last? We do not know their long-term intentions, nor how this will affect our autonomy in the event of peace."
Arnet kept his gaze steady. "Senator, peace is our ultimate goal. But to get there, we need effective weapons and defense systems that can be sustained over the long term. These platforms will not only protect your planets; they will allow your military forces to focus on other fronts rather than defending each orbit individually. The UNSC is not becoming your ruler, but your ally."
Serina showed endurance statistics and battle analysis of the platforms, projecting an analysis of effectiveness in comparison to Republic ships. Faced with the data, several senators seemed more convinced
The conversation was intense, with multiple senators voicing their concerns and committing to varying degrees. Finally, the verdict came, and three planets rose as the first to offer full backing to the UNSC: Naboo, Alderaan, and Mon Cala. Each pledged to provide the resources, personnel, and economic support the UNSC needed to establish a solid base in the galaxy and prepare its fight against the Covenant.
Other systems, such as Mygeeto and Malachor, agreed to support them financially and strategically through trade agreements. This would provide the UNSC with substantial funding, though not the same level of direct support as the first three planets. Still, it was a considerable step forward, a resource base that would give them the leeway needed to sustain their operations in the long term.
Arnet bowed his head slightly in respect to the senators. "I appreciate the support and trust placed in the UNSC. With your contributions, we will begin construction of the first defense platforms in your orbits and establish our bases to combat the Covenant. You can be assured that every resource you provide us will be used with maximum efficiency."
The senator from Mon Cala intervened, her voice echoing in the room. "Mon Cala understands what is at stake and knows what the UNSC has demonstrated thus far. Our alliance is on track. We will build a fleet with your engineers and provide the personnel necessary to maintain and operate your systems."
From Alderaan, Senator Organa added, "We too will remain committed to this alliance. The fight against the Covenant cannot afford divisions. We will help establish your bases with the materials and personnel you need."
The murmurs in the room slowly died down as the senators considered the decision. The UNSC had gained a powerful alliance and the resources necessary to expand its operations in the galaxy. Seeing the determined faces of the representatives, Arnet prepared for the next step: consolidating the UNSC's presence and moving forward with force towards the eradication of the Covenant threat.
The Jedi Council, after analyzing the agreements and the growing power of the UNSC in the Republic, decided to assign Aayla Secura as a liaison between the Jedi and the UNSC. It was not a surveillance task out of distrust, but rather a way to keep the Republic informed and ensure that the UNSC and its leadership remained aligned with galactic principles.
Aayla accepted her assignment without reservation, but deep inside she felt a mix of curiosity and caution. The history of the UNSC, its militaristic structure, and the remarkable figure of Admiral Arnet, a seasoned warrior who had led his fleet to impressive victories, captured her attention.
Her mission would involve staying close to the Admiral, observing his operations and, when necessary, collaborating on joint missions to ensure a smooth relationship. The truth was, Aayla didn't know how the UNSC would respond to her presence, but she was determined to do her duty and find out more about this mysterious ally of the Republic.
-x.X.x-
With Padmé Amidala's authorization and the vast resources flowing in from Naboo, Alderaan, and Mon Cala, the UNSC embarked on the construction of one of the largest and most advanced bases in the galaxy on the moon Ohma-D'un. Serina oversaw every detail of the plans, ensuring that the base was equipped with all the necessary strategic elements. It would span over 15 kilometers, with facilities ranging from vehicle factories to training camps, simulated war zones, and a logistical infrastructure that would allow the UNSC to act completely self-sufficiently.
Meanwhile, Arnet was in no hurry to launch further offensives. Though the war was worsening in many parts of the galaxy, he decided to adopt a defensive strategy: split the fleet and station units on the planets that now supported the UNSC, protecting them until the orbital defense stations were fully operational. Naboo, in particular, would be a formidable bastion. With five orbital platforms under construction and constant support from UNSC AIs, the planet would soon be far better defended than any other in the Outer Rim.
Aware of the diversity and cultural complexity of this galaxy, Arnet ordered his soldiers and personnel to educate themselves on the local species and cultures. While combat and tactics were crucial, Arnet understood the importance of adapting to such a varied environment. Through study and orientation sessions, UNSC soldiers learned about key species: the Twi'leks, with their strong sense of community and fighting, the Wookiees, known for their ferocity in combat and unwavering loyalty, and the Toydarians, skilled in business and negotiation.
The UNSC AIs helped immensely, gathering and synthesizing the cultural, linguistic, and diplomatic information necessary for the soldiers to better understand the customs and values of each species. Serina was tasked with offering insights on how to interact in diplomatic situations, thus avoiding potential cultural conflicts.
Three weeks after the UNSC's introduction to the galaxy, the calm on Naboo was shattered when a small Republic fleet, led by Anakin Skywalker, appeared in orbit. The fleet's sudden arrival raised suspicions among the UNSC soldiers, who quickly mobilized to ensure that it was not a threat.
Arnet watched the transmission of the Republic fleet requesting permission to land. Although the relationship with the Republic had been cordial thus far, the unexpected appearance of a fleet created uncertainty.
Anakin Skywalker arrived on Naboo with a mission in mind, one he had been planning ever since he heard Arnet's harsh criticism of the clones' combat tactics. He had seen the difference on the battlefield and knew that while the clones were disciplined and brave, they lacked the tactical preparation that UNSC soldiers naturally displayed. So he had come to ask a favor.
When Anakin's fighter landed on the designated pad of the UNSC base on the moon of Naboo, Arnet and a few high-ranking officers were already waiting. Anakin descended quickly, a determined look on his face.
"Skywalker," Arnet greeted, his tone as professional as ever.
"Admiral Arnet," Anakin replied with a small nod. "I've come to ask for your help... a favor, actually."
Arnet crossed his arms expectantly. "Tell me, Skywalker. What is this about?"
Anakin took a deep breath before speaking. "Your words about the clones' lack of combat readiness... were harsh, but not wrong. The truth is that they could improve a lot if they received real training. That's why I'm here, Admiral: I want the UNSC to train a group of clones fresh from Kamino. I believe that elite combat training can make a difference in the performance of our troops."
Arnet fell silent, considering the request. "And the clones are okay with this?" he asked, a slight suspicion in his tone.
Anakin shook his head. "No, not all of them. The idea of them receiving outside training doesn't appeal to them, but I know this is the right thing to do. If they learn to move and fight like your soldiers, their chances of survival will increase considerably."
Arnet nodded slowly. "I understand. You know our training is... demanding. We're not going to soften it for them."
Anakin smiled slightly. "That's exactly what I want."
Arnet watched Anakin with a slight smile on his face, understanding the urgency of the situation. "Then we have seven days," he said in a serious tone, taking up the challenge. "It's going to be difficult."
Anakin nodded, somewhat worried but determined. "I expect no less, Arnet. Anything that increases my men's chances on the battlefield is worth it."
Arnet activated his communicator and summoned the base's AI. To Anakin's surprise, a holographic figure different from Serina appeared, an AI with a military appearance and bearing, a rigid face and strict expression.
"Admiral," the AI greeted, its voice brisk and professional.
"This is Delta," Arnet explained to Anakin. "She's one of our tactical AIs, specializing in combat strategies."
Anakin, a little intrigued, greeted the AI. "It's a pleasure, Delta."
"Delta," Arnet ordered, "prepare an intensive combat training plan. We're going to train this group of clones against Covenant tactics. We have seven days to give them our best."
Delta nodded, and his holographic eyes began rapidly scanning the tactics files and training data. "I have prepared a high-risk training scheme based on Covenant tactics," Delta reported. "It will be a difficult plan, designed to familiarize the clones with the brutality and speed of the enemy, all condensed into just seven days. It will also include endurance training and close quarters combat in urban and open field combat situations. The success rate for each test is rated at 30% success, on par with UNSC standards."
Anakin raised an eyebrow. "That low?"
"It is what our soldiers face every day, General Skywalker," Arnet replied, firmly. "This is the war we are in, and if the clones can overcome this, they will have a better chance in the real thing."
Anakin, despite reservations, nodded. "Then, we will do what is necessary. Let the training begin."
Arnet raised a hand, stopping Anakin before he could rush in. "I admire your enthusiasm, General Skywalker, but it's not as simple as just arriving and beginning training. There are certain preparations we must attend to."
Anakin paused, a little taken aback. "Preparations? What kind of preparations?"
"The base isn't 100% ready yet," Arnet explained, gesturing around. "If we're going to conduct training of this caliber, we need suitable, safe terrain, simulated areas where they can face real situations without putting the integrity of the base or the soldiers themselves at risk."
The Delta AI stepped in. "Admiral, I can prepare a section of the base and adapt it for clone training, as well as occupy the war zones for them to train their combat. However, it will take some time to reorganize the area and establish the necessary security measures."
Arnet nodded. "Thank you, Delta. And one more thing, Anakin: we're going to limit the number of clones that will participate in this first training. We can't take the risk with an entire combat force until we see how they adapt to the regimen. So we'll select 200 clones for this initial test."
Anakin nodded, understanding better now. "Makes sense. That way we can see how they respond to the training and assess their ability to adapt to your tactics."
Arnet looked at him seriously. "Exactly. We need to do this in a controlled manner, and if it works, we can take it to a larger scale. But for now, we'll take the 200 clones and start making arrangements to prepare the ground. This isn't just any training, and we need to do it right."
Anakin took a deep breath and smiled slightly. "It looks like this will be harder than I imagined. But I trust your methods, Admiral."
"So, let's get to work," Arnet concluded. "Delta, make sure everything is ready. This is just the beginning."
End of Chapter 19.
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