Junction Age of Empires | EE (Empty Hex) + AC (Makem Te) + NIO (Velmor) Junction

[Aemilio Valaar]

OBJ 2
Simon Meinrad

​

Major Valaar.

He eyed the shuttle that was bound for the surface in the safety of the New Imperial Star Destroyer. Destined for another area of operation with what? Beings possessed by the Force? Long dead Sith? It wasn't even their planet, and here they were, cleaning up worlds for Jedi. Crusaders or not, the track record of the Lightsworn was not impressive. Not against the demons in the Unknown Regions, and hardly for the Tingel Arm.

Some things never changed, and the 501st Black Hands were once again sent to clean up the mess that the supposed protectors of the galaxy could not.

He felt the rumble of the dropship as it raced through the atmosphere and to the jungles below. He didn't need a full battalion to clean these ill-conceived structures of the Dark Side.

They even got their own Knight with them.

Not that they needed him. Armed with Ysalimiri Cradles, the veteran troopers of the Hyperspace War were well prepared for the machinations of Force wielding possessed entities. Coupled with disruptors, they were a lethal cadre of troopers with plenty of experiencing facing Sith. Just another day.

The dropship touched down, and the ramp descended, unleashing the stormtroopers unto Dromund Kaas.

"I just need a path, Knight. And we'll get the job done."

 

[Gideon Saigo]

G R A N D _ M O F F
NEW IMPERIAL ORDER

In the shadow of the Emperor's ardent cloak, the Grand Moff of Sector II reluctantly strode to the summit over Kaas. Gideon Saigo would not have been present here had he not desired to personally witness the sacking of the Sith capital. A long, bloodied journey it had been for the Empire but defiance had eventually persevered.

The True Imperial's cause was just.

The stormtrooper escort was ordered to remain behind the closed doors and the Empire's delegation took to their seats. Gideon leaned back on the chair, steepling his fingers and throwing glances across the different parties which had gathered here. After a long, solemn silence, the Grand Moff raised an eyebrow, "Well?" they were, after all, not the party that had called this meeting.

EE | Ingrid L'lerim | Baron Reinhardt Ström | Belisarius Vactovion
AC | Pietro Demici |@Isla Draellix | Ul-Tam-Ban
NIO | Rurik Fel
​

 

[Lilanna Kelamvor]

.​

​

O B J E C T I V E II: Holdouts​

Location: Planetside, Dromund Kaas​

Tags: Corin Autem Lena Dracov Scipio Kaarz Domokos Gyula Eina L'lerim-Vandiir​

Equipment: Shoudsaber, Lilanna's Apsara Armor, FS-18 Omega Phase Assault Rifle, KC- 95 'Ace of Spades' Blaster Pistol, Lady of Steel's Cybernetic Leg.​

Forces: 10th Ultranaut Regiment 'Oathbreakers',​

​

Corin's voice was the only thing on this planet that could have brightened her mood. Hearing that her partners' squad was in position, Lilanna gave her reply as she signaled the rest of her unit to follow. <<"Understood, moving to your position now.">> ​

​

If she was worried about the past catching up with her, the concern for Corie's safety overshadowed that. She was capable, able to protect herself certainly, but there were powers that the Sith held that dwarfed anything that conventional weapons could throw against it. Lilanna had seen such things with her own eyes, and fought such creatures with her own hands. Seeing Corie's form up ahead moving towards her, Lilanna took note of the position of Corie' Hellhounds, and waved her squad to fan out and take up new support positions.​

​

The wrongness of the cave could be felt as Lilanna approached it, her lips twitching in disgust as it reached for her. Fortunately for Lilanna, she knew how to combat the darkness, and eventually how to kill it; neither of which were easy. Wanting to take the lead into the cave, Lilanna moved on ahead, though not before issuing her game plan to her squad. <<"I want everyone to keep your distance when we make our way inside, keep with a squad mate at all times, and do not go longer than five minutes without checking in.">>​

​

There wasn't much she could do to protect her soldiers. At least keeping them together gave them a chance if the worst happened.​

​

Corie fell in beside her, joining the Warden as she moved to the mouth of the cave, and it seemed that she had picked up on Lilanna's mood. She wished she could open up and tell Corie about what she felt in this moment, to just spill every vile thing she had done on this planet, and how it's sickening touch made her feel unclean. But she couldn't afford to do that here, and perhaps not even when they were gone. It was a special kind of hell to be Sith, even more so to serve willingly. As much as she wished to share it with Corie, this wouldn't be the time or place.​

​

"This place brings back memories of my last life, and many things I wish I could forget about. It's like being drowned in a sea of black." She responded, looking to Corin and shaking her head. The force could be such a burden to those who could touch it, feel it, channel it through their being. More times than not, it felt like a curse. "I can feel the energy of this world, and it's stabbing at me like an old wound, wanting back in, to latch onto me like a parasite. It's hard to describe. A...force thing I suppose." She reached out her empty hand, wanting to hold Corie's hand for just a moment, to steel herself before the decent into whatever nightmare awaited them. It was a moment of weakness, and Lilanna broke the contract soon after making it. "But having you here, it makes it bearable."​

​

No doubt Corie would be steaming at her for showing affection at a time like this, but she'd get over it sooner or later.​

​

Lil found she hardly stayed on Corie's bad side for long. Drawing her blaster, Lilanna reigned her senses back in, and took up the front of the position. "If it's all the same to you, I'd like to take point. I've found my senses pick up on dark signatures more easily than before." There were several reasons for that, but Lilanna suspected the work of Ingrid L'lerim had inadvertently warped her senses. Ever since that ritual, Lilanna could feel the darkness now more than ever.​

​

Just another boon from her empress.​

 

[Amadeus Blackwood]

Eclipse Actual

Loadout: Double-bladed lightsaber, blaster pistol, vibroknife, Armor

Tags: Aemilio Valaar

The Black Prince

Of all of the former Sith worlds that Eclipse Company could have been deployed to, why did it have to be Dromund Kaas? Amadeus asked himself that question over and over since the orders came down. Though he understood the need to fully bring the planet to heel, there was a part of him that never wished to step foot on this place again. It was here that he had been trained to kill in the name of the Sith, turning him into the cold killer he now was. So many memories were attached to this planet, and none of them were pleasant. Despite his lack of desire to be here, Amadeus also found it rather poetic, in a way. The Sith spent so much time training him to kill... they never expected that his blade would eventually be turned on them.

The hardened fighters of Eclipse Company were pushing there way through the dense jungles that littered the former Sith capital world, pressing forth with the precision they had come to be known for. There were no other men that Amadeus would rather have at his side, as they had proven time and again that they were truly his brothers. In many ways, they had become his new family, a unified body with the sole purpose of serving their great Emperor. Their movements would be swift, and their actions without pause. Today, whatever paltry holdouts the Sith possessed on Dromund Kaas would fall, finally ridding the last traces of stench from the planet for good.

Commander Roland Thorne, Amadeus' right hand, walked beside him, keeping the pace as they led their comrades through the jungle. This was the first time they had conducted a mission together in some time, as Amadeus had been called to take on several missions alone, leaving Roland to command Eclipse Company in his stead.

"We'll link up with Tycho and the others soon. They should be at the entrance to the ruins by now."

The scouting party they had sent ahead were ordered to maintain radio silence unless they made contact. So far the comms had remained silent, giving Amadeus hope that this operation would maintain a smooth trajectory.

"And should these ruins be inhabited, sir?"

"Then they won't be for long."

 

[Ingrid L'lerim]

Lady Ingrid L’lerim Ragal Terassi Vandiir
Eternal Empress of the Eternal Empire, Lord Commander of the Wardens of the Shroud, Archon of the Primyn Group
Empress of Terraris, Supreme Commander of the Terraris Command, Head of the House L’lerim, CEO of the HPI Consortium​

Objective: Try to make some kind of deal with NIO with the help of the Ashlan Crusade which is normalise relations between the factions.
Location: Aboard the ENS Crimson Empress, orbit around Dromund Kaas
Equipment: The Soulsabers (hidden) | Brynja coat | Hersir Imperial Uniform | Viper Mk. I Skinsuit | The Last Gift || Empyrean gland | OPBC-01m
Eternal Imperials: Baron Reinhardt Ström | Belisarius Vactovion | Hi'los Krai | Chamdar the Hutt | Domokos Gyula
Ashlan Crusade: Ul-Tam-Ban | Isla Draellix-Kobitana | Pietro Demici
New Imperials: Rurik Fel | Gideon Saigo

[ Valhalla Calling ]
<"High Nelvaanian"> | ~ telepathic communication ~ | << comm. channel >> ​

Ingrid looked at the baron with stern eyes as the man called her "your Majesty" again, and even the smirk reaction was there. The woman had told the man countless times which address she preferred, yet the old baron had repeatedly used "your Majesty" instead of the simple "my Lord." The man was too old and too old-fashioned to change, though Tacitus also loved "Sir" instead of the imperial title.

<"Well, I think, if it were up to Lord Demici, the meeting would end with a war."> she chuckled a little.

She then turned in the direction of Vactovion and nodded to him; yes, it was clear that something like this was to be strived for, to be achieved.

<"Uraim; my address has not changed in the last more than fifteen years since I became the right hand of the late emperor. Let the imperial addresses be left for the outsiders… I am still primarily a soldier."> she said. <"Yes, that's clear. That is what politics and diplomacy are all about.">

The Empress had just finished replying in time, when delegates from the other two factions began to arrive. MANIAC also indicated this and the people soon arrived in the meeting room. Even Ashlan Crusade brought in people the woman didn’t know, even though Lord Demici and Lady Dreallix were here. And an extra person from the NIO. Ingrid greeted everyone personally, as one would expect from a good host, although with her usual coldness and distance.

The red-haired woman sometimes wondered how different the outcome of the war would have been if someone had convinced her earlier of what Lord Cedric Grayson had done. If they had listened to her and believed her, if they had seen not only that she was on the side of the Sith, but also the intent, that is, why she did this. But that was the past, and it was not here today to apologise for the past. She did what was necessary, so she will not apologise to anyone for this.

Last but not least, Ingrid was different than last time. She was a beginner at the time, even with no practice and no experience when she met Rurik on the battlefield. However, a lot of time has passed since then. The wars hardened her too, however she was cold and tough all the time. Although she was still similar to Tavlar, that’s why she liked the former Imperator. But Fel was different, very much so. She watched the other ruler with cold blue eyes.

"I welcome everyone present! Since time is what we have the least, I don’t even have a long introduction. Everyone knows the past, today we should rather talk about the present and the future. The old war is over, the enemies of that time are no longer factors in the galaxy, instead there is a new enemy on our borders. The Eternal Empire convened this meeting today to try to resolve old conflicts and hopefully we can open a new chapter in relations between our empires for a more cooperative, prosperous, and peaceful future. Or at least to return to the relationships that existed before our previous and first meeting, Lord Fel; for our goals and our enemies are common. The Sith and the Maw. I know they don’t trust us, that’s clear, but in the galaxy, it was only Ashlan Crusade and Lord Grayson who saw the real reasons why we were on the side of the Sith during the war. In recent years, since the last Ziost War, we have had relations with the Ashlan Crusade, and today they are here to assist in diplomatic negotiations between your empire and the Eternal Empire, as they have good relations with both sides." she said.

After that, she looked at the Overseer for a moment and nodded, knowing the man wanted to speak, too.

"Overseer!"

 

[Eina L'lerim-Vandiir]

Lady Eina L'lerim-Vandiir
The First and the Light of Ashla
Heiress and Princess of the Eternal Empire and Terraris; Angelic Mascot and Representative of the Ashlan Crusade
Eternal Empire's Ambassador to the Ashlan Crusade; Matriarch of the Valkyrja; Leader of Sanctuary and the Fjölkyngi Smiđr Guild​

Objective: Cleanse the Temple; release and heal the souls
Location: Dark Temple, Dromund Kaas
Equipment: Sverð Fyrstr (swords) | Ljósspjót (spear) | Skrúð Engill Fyrstr (armour) || Empyrean gland | OPBC-01m || Current appearance
Writing With: Scipio Kaarz
Ashlan Crusade: Rhiza Dural
Eternal Empire: Lilanna Kelamvor | Corin Autem | Lena Dracov | Domokos Gyula || [ Hellhounds ]
New Imperial Order: Aemilio Valaar | Amadeus Blackwood

[ Preliator ]
<"High Nelvaanian"> | ~ telepathic communication ~ | << comm. channel >> ​

Eina watched in silence as the members of the Hellhounds were already in motion in the distance. Her position was a little strange, which was still unusual for her. On the one hand, she was heiress to the throne of the Eternal Empire and was therefore on a par with STRATCOM in terms of power and position, with a very high-ranking officer position, and on the other hand, she was ambassador to the Ashlan Crusade. Although she did not officially hold any position within Ashlan Crusade, she nevertheless knew that she would soon be canonise within the church for her deeds and acts, most notably the creation of the Crown of Ashla. Not to mention the fact that the entire Sisters of Ashla order would have followed her if she had ordered them.

Another issue that she never did. The fact that the girl might be abusing something was very far from her character, she was selfless and pure, the corruption of the living did not affect her. Eina never took advantage of the fact that she had a fraternal relationship with Heinrich Faus or Lady Isla Draellix. Nor did she take advantage of the fact that Lord Pietro Demici treated her as his niece, nor that she was the bride of one of the most esteemed crusaders. It was similar to her parents in that she didn’t really like ranks, the Valkyrja just wanted to do her job, her duty, nothing more. It caused the girl the most joy.

Like today; so she saw that the Eternal Imperial forces were nearby, and if all was true, the New Imperials had already arrived. And the Valkyrja, as usual, was in the Camp Ashlan, that is now she was near to the camp, on a hill. She also saw another acquaintance there, Magister Scipio Kaarz . So she went to the man before they left for the Temple. Eina stopped a few feet away from him at first, bowed her head respectfully, and then spoke.

"Magister! Are you going to the Dark temple with us? Will you join us in cleansing the temple in the name of Ashla?" she asked with a kind smile in a soft voice.

 

[Keilara Kala'myr]

Ziare Dyarron
COMPNOR (ISB) Junior Agent, Nite agent​

Objective: BYOO, Remembrance
Location: N/A; Records only
Equipment: N/A; Records only
Tag: N/A

[ New Order ]
"Galactic Basic" | ~"Telepathic" communication ~ | << comm. channel >> ​

Recordings of Ziare Diarron's medical files; (ISB junior agent, COMPNOR):

"I don't want to answer it, I don't want to remember what happened there. I know I have to talk about it, and I have to, but no, I can’t." I answered.

"The patient pulled her legs up defensively and hugged them. Although she knew exactly that she was not to cry, she did. Based on my diagnosis, she suffered a severe shock while Maw was in captivity. Based on her previous medical file and records, she was subjected to physical and mental torture throughout her life, and her identity was later changed by COMPNOR to prevent further atrocities. Based on my research, not counting the traumas, her loyalty and mental state are satisfactory. As much as possible. She also has numerous physical injuries. Her hand was broken, with several, and there are traces of suicide on her arm that coincide with the finding that she was trying to do so when the Maw began to torture her to break her. There is no sign in her mind of any brainwashing or control of the Maw. She has PTSD because of Force users and the undead, but given the agent’s past, it’s no surprise. I suggest additional therapies to heal mental injuries. She can continue to work based on my medical opinion, Agent Dyarron’s condition will not affect her work."

"I got to Lao Mon first, they took me there. I was in a cell for days or weeks, separated from the others. I saw and read files about what they were doing to the slaves, but they left me alone. At least even then. I do not know why. When the SJC and Allied troops attacked the place, I heard the voice of the Taskmaster, Tu'teggacha , in my mind for the first time. It was more horrible than I’ve encountered in my life earlier, when I lived at home. I tried to escape, I could already hear the fighting in our underground bunker, they were our soldiers.

I didn’t give up for a moment, I always resisted, I fought against them. I thought I could escape, but the Taskmaster wouldn't let me. Marauders came after me. There was a time when I was hoping I would be able to do it, I was able to kill more of their people, but in the end, due to my injuries and overpowering, I had no chance against the rested fighters with guns and overpowering. I know... I know my duty, when I realized I couldn’t escape, I tried to commit suicide, as expected of an agent. But they did not let me die, they saved me.

The actual tortures began after that. Physical and mental. To this day, I don’t know why they tried to do this so much. I mean, I am not a strong, outstanding fighter, I’m more of a coward but an effective one. Sure, I'm good, to be a COMPNOR and ISB agent, but I’m not outstanding, I'm an average person who always does her job reliably. But I don’t get nearly enough to do so much to break me.

I just still don't understand…"

"I know it's hard, but let's talk now about what the tortures were like." said the doctor again.

 

[Corin Autem]

Tags: Lilanna Kelamvor Lena Dracov Domokos Gyula
Kit: KC-47 Hybrid Strike Rifle, HH-38 "Geysa" Hybrid Pistol, Lucius-pattern Bayonet, Imperial "Hellhound" Armour Mk. I

Listening to Lilanna, Corin's brow rose slightly as she did her best not to react. "Like being drowned in a sea of black." Somehow -she didn't know how- that made complete sense to the Major. Glancing around, she kept quiet as a hand brushed her arm. Instinct and need convinced her to take that hand in her own. Squeezing gently, she let the touch fade.

Now was not the time for distractions after all.

Stepping past the body of the silenced sentry, Corin studied her squadmate's work with an eye long since accustomed to the horrors of war. "If it's all the same to you, I'll take point," she said, turning to regard the Captain as she swept her rifle down by her side. Normally Corin would have let Lilanna have her way; she was just as qualified as the rest of the troopers under her command. And her reasons for volunteering to take point weren't entirely selfish either.

Yet Corin could sense the turmoil in Lilanna. She knew of the woman's history, knew of the pain and the suffering it still caused her to this day. Drawing her pistol, Corin called up her squad. <<"Domokos. Lena. Fenn. With me,">> she instructed, stepping up to one side of the cave entrance. <<"The rest of you hold here until the Ultranauts are inside, then, follow.">> Looking to Lil, Corin nodded an apology as her team stacked up on either side of the crooked entrance.

"Set," Fenn said, tapping her shoulder.

Lightning flashed. The rain continued to pour. Somewhere nearby, unseen observers watched, their malignant forms as dark and decayed as the jungle from which their enemy had come.

Taking a breath, Corin led her Hellhounds inside.

 

[Kathrin Thyra]

Age of Empires
ENS Vikarion
20th Heavy Attack Line, Battlegroup Stygian
5x I-3A Lance Fighter Squadrons (60 Starfighters)
1x I-4V Dive Bomber Squadrons (8 Starfighters)
2x Styx-Class Assault Dropship (8 Dropships)
Commodore Kathrin Thyra
Equipment: Kathrin's Naval Uniform, HH-38 "Geysa" Hybrid Pistol

ESSTRAN SECTOR | HOLDING IN DROMUND SYSTEM
OBJECTIVE: Sit Still, Look Pretty (2)
TAGS: Open to Everyone

---

Commodore Kathrin Thyra

Kathrin preferred her ready room to be dimly lit, it helped her concentrate on the work that she needed to go through. She had just finished reviewing her report from the hyperdrive engineering team when a message came through from the line commander on the holo-table, "Deploy Starfighters to assist planet-side." Not an unexpected order but one she welcomed, even if the sole purpose was to provide air superiority and perhaps intimidate the Sith loyalists that still resided on the planet.

Rising from her seat and making a return to the bridge, she darted towards one of the flight lieutenants who sat on the side of the bridge, again efficiently moving through the crew, "Lieutenant, Deploy two squadrons of I-3A's and one I-4V squadron to the planet." "Yes, Commodore." the young lieutenant responded. Turning around she located her executive officer, "Captain Röhr, you have the bridge" she ordered, then moving to the turbolift behind the bridge.

As she entered the turbolift and touched the screen to head to flight command, three crew members entered the lift with her followed by a brief exchange: "Commodore!" "Ensign." "Commodore." "Petty Officer" "Commodore?!" "Crewman." they all retorted as a sign of respect, followed by crisp responses from Kathrin. The rest of the turbolift ride was mildly awkward with the crew not wanting to say the wrong things, instead opting to remain silent.

By the time she had reached flight command above the main hangar, two of the crew members had left the turbolift a few stops earlier. Exiting the lift she was met with the busy flight control crew stopping for a few seconds and standing to attention before resuming their business, the flight commander turned to her, "Ma'am! The last of the fighters are leaving the bay now, the rest are in a holding pattern waiting for full deployment." "Good work, Commander, have the rest ready to scramble, hopefully that won't be necessary however.." "Ma'am." Moving over to one of the communication panels she called Captain Röhr:

"Captain, send a message on the open channel. Inform the fleets that we are deploying fighters planet-side, we don't want to provoke them."

"Yes, Commodore." he responded grimly.

Taking a step back, Kathrin looked over the hangar, admiring the deployment of her starfighters and the brutal efficiency of her crew.

|-| OPEN CHANNEL :// "Message: ENS Vikarion deploying starfighters to Dromund Kaas for air superiority. Support available." [REPEAT x2] \\: END |-|

 

[Simon Meinrad]

Aemilio Valaar

It was unnecessary to have the Empire involve themselves in foreign affairs that did not benefit the Imperial. Furthermore, it was absolutely preposterous to even share a table with the Eternal Empire; they didn’t deserve an utter of diplomacy. All that could be given was fire and destruction for their past grievances.

No matter how much one would protest against the Empire entertaining foreigners with diplomacy and military aid, alas they were here.

This world should’ve been destroyed, not preserved.

Purging entities of the Dark Side he applauded and encouraged. What he could not understand was the existence of the Sith worlds corrupted with the Dark Side. A beacon for those who practiced the Dark Side, Sith or otherwise. A nexus that gave them power and supplemented their will to dominate.

Absolute fools.

Those who did not learn their history were doomed.

The unit of Stormtroopers rushed out from their dropships, pure infantry with little need of armor or artillery. The planet was already occupied by the Crusaders, they just needed to snuff out the little pockets of resistance that lingered about.

“Behind me,” the old Imperial Knight snarled with command, the argent blade of his lightsaber came alive and rushed to the vanguard. He’d be the first one to breach the temple, and the last one to come out alive. Even without the Force he wouldn’t hesitate at charging the jaws of evil.

 

[Lilanna Kelamvor]

.​

​

O B J E C T I V E II: Holdouts​

Location: Planetside, Dromund Kaas​

Tags: Corin Autem Lena Dracov Scipio Kaarz Domokos Gyula Eina L'lerim-Vandiir Darth Levos​

Equipment: Shoudsaber, Lilanna's Apsara Armor, FS-18 Omega Phase Assault Rifle, KC- 95 'Ace of Spades' Blaster Pistol, Lady of Steel's Cybernetic Leg.​

Forces: 10th Ultranaut Regiment 'Oathbreakers',​

​

Lilanna wanted to object to Corie's statement, but it was perhaps for good reason she allow her to take command. The nature of the world might compromise her decision making, and Corie had already seen her when she lost herself to that darkness. More than once unfortunately. Still, she wouldn't allow Corie too far outside her senses; though frankly, her senses had quite a bit of range to them. Hearing Corie give the order for her troops to keep to the rear, Lilanna gave out her order, bringing her rifle to bare. Before, she wouldn't have dreamed about going into battle with a mere assault rifle in hand, but time and training with Corin had made her proficient with the weapon; though when Corie let her 'cheat', her performance put several sharpshooters to shame. So of course, Corie wouldn't let her cheat at the range.​

​

Given the nature of the mission, Lilanna felt she would have to use her abilities sooner or later. She looked to the ones that Corie called out and frowned, unsure how this whole ordeal would go.​

​

She had a bad feeling about this.​

 

[Baron Reinhardt Ström]

TAG: Ingrid L'lerim Belisarius Vactovion Hi'los Krai Chamdar the Hutt Domokos Gyula Ul-Tam-Ban Pietro Demici Isla Draellix-Kobitana Rurik Fel Gideon Saigo
OBJECTIVE: I - Orbital Summit
LOCATION: Audience Chamber within the ENS Crimson Empress

It was quite possible that Baron Reinhardt Ström was one of the few men who refused to bend to the will of the Empress, and yet live to tell the tale when it came to his referring to her as "Majesty". She was correct of course, as he was quite set in his ways when it came to regnal propriety, as well as statecraft. That refusal to compromise had done much as of late to serve her well, and it was clear that she interpreted as much. There were worse crimes in the galaxy than to assign more respect to one's sovereign than what was demanded.

Ström got the sense that it would take every bit of his traditional statecraft and diplomacy to see his Empress through this summit, even as the Field Marshal to his left spoke his peace. For all of her qualities, he had come to see the faults within her as well. She was not one to compromise; not when she believed herself above reproach or criticism. He had witnessed that fact first hand, when Ingrid rebuked the Overseer of Science at their last major session within the Imperial Assembly. Yet, it appeared to be more than simple hubris or arrogance. He had heard the whispers surrounding his monarch, namely that she was some shape-shifter, or carried some otherworldly powers making her slightly more than mortal.

Most rulers, in his experience, preferred to maintain a level of mystique about themselves. Yet, for the first time in his life, he found himself believing some of these rumors, at least to some extent. Why else would she carry herself as if she were above the rules of mortal men? Why else would she appear as though she had not aged a day?

Now was not the time for such speculation - not when the fate of empires hung in the balance. Soon enough, the delegations of both the Ashlan Crusade and New Imperial Order entered into the room. Several familiar faces could be seen within the Ashlan Delegation, such as Isla Drellix, and the famed Cardinal Pietro Demici. He greeted them all in turn, mirroring the respectful posture of his monarch. When the Imperator himself arrived, the chill in the air took on an all too tangible nature. He had never met Rurik Fel personally, but only knew of him by reputation. He ruled the New Imperial Order with an iron fist, not unlike the exoskeleton he wore in their presence. His companion as well, a Grand Moff by the look of him, carried himself similarly.

It was plain to see that they were only here out of respect to the diplomatic customs of the galaxy, or perhaps even some sense of respect for the Ashlan Crusade itself. The Baron held the keen sense that if their allies were not here, both he and the other Eternal Empire representatives would be embroiled in a fight for their very lives, much like patrons observing the raw and hardly bridled ferocity of a fearsome predator; with only a thin sheet of wire in between.

It was shortly after their arrival that the Empress spoke. Although his face did not show it, internally the Baron cringed at the outset of her introduction. In his experience, diplomatic meetings did not progress well by refusing to acknowledge the grievances of the opposing side. While the Eternal Empire was not in a position of weakness in this meeting, it certainly didn’t do them any favors to project as much this early on. The dynamic of this meeting was different as opposed to their summit with the Crusade. Both parties desired an accord equally as much as the other. The NIO on the other hand, had proven its willingness to isolate itself when it believed it was to its advantage to do so.

At the same token, while he could get away with referring to Ingrid as ‘Her Majesty’ as opposed to ‘My Lord’ or ‘Sir’, he dare not contradict or oppose her stance directly. He was a loyal man of course, yet he also believed he was uniquely capable of directing this discussion where it needed to go. He just needed to avoid getting beheaded in the process. ”In support of the Empress’s introduction, I think it would be remiss to not drive home a point she touched upon.” He cleared his throat as he began, projecting the appearance of a man choosing his words carefully - because he was.

”I don’t think anyone could honestly deny the validity of your reasons for hating the Sith Empire, or us by extension. You all fought for your very survival; to supplant a regime that looked at you as mere pawns to their master plan. Although our intention was to do the same with the Sith, we cannot deny the role we played in impeding your road to forge yourselves into the Empire you now are.” He paused, a glint of respect in his eyes as he continued: ”It is the unfortunate reality that Empires who exist for any real length of time will spark conflict in one way or the other. You know our reasons for doing as we did, and I think it wise to not continue along that train of thought with you any further.”

The Baron met the impassive gaze of the Imperator, as well as that of his fellow delegate before continuing: ”Our reasons for inviting you here, to this meeting of minds, are to see if there is any way in your view for us to move forward, as Lady L’lerim has said. Yes, we were enemies once. But is it not the mandate of great men and women such as us all to do what is best for the galaxy? We seek to do just that, if you feel it is within you to do the same.” Before he ceded the floor to the next person to speak, he added: ”We do not seek an alliance, nor a binding agreement outside of peace between us. We seek to establish formal diplomatic status between our two nations, so that we can take a first step in healing the wounds of the past, rather than remaining mired within it - for the greater good of all.”

 

[Aemilio Valaar]

OBJ 2
Simon Meinrad

​

Aemilio wasn't about to argue with the Knight. How many times had the Black Hands rushed in and suffered casualties during his command? Each time in service to another supposed ally who could barely pull their weight. If one man was capable of holding back the Dark Side, then he was free to do so. Valaar was content to follow this time around. Besides, he'd heard of the heroics of the Knights at Nirauan. For once he'd get to see someone else put on a show.

Once Meinrad took the lead, the Black Hands fell into step. Whatever pace the gruff warrior decided to set, they matched it.

It was not long after their debarkation that targets began to sprout up in the BHUDs of the Black Hands. Unknown lit up in a red paint in the surrounding jungle as they made their way to one of the temples. Roving troopers, bereft of sense and wandering aimless. Not unlike the Perished the Empire had faced before. Some of them muttered quiet nothings to themselves, others continued the duties of their past life. Both were controlled by the spirits that roamed the planet, and the only warning they had of the strike team's arrival was a disruptor bolt to the body.

<"Contact!">

Suddenly, where there were mindless drones mucking about, there was scraps of clothing or plates of armour collapsing to the ground. Organic matter and much that was connected to it vaporizing in an instant as the troopers made their presence known. Valaar waved a hand as they moved, signaling the troopers to his left flank to circle around. Just in time to, for the spirits guiding the mindless drones adjusted. And turned them to rampaging creatures, racing at the Knight in the front, and the troopers closest.

 

[Belisarius Vactovion]

Belisarius Vactovion
Lord Commander of the Wardens of the Shroud | Field Marshal of the Eternal Army
The Black Knight of Vengard

Objective: I Orbital Summit | Get the Likeminded together
Location: Crimson Empress, Audience Chamber
Equipment: Ultranaut Field Marshal Uniform, Shroudsaber (concealed)
Tag: Ingrid L'lerim , Baron Reinhardt Ström , Rurik Fel , Pietro Demici , Isla Draellix-Kobitana , Ul-Tam-Ban , Gideon Saigo

{✠} The Black Knight {✠}
<"High Nelvaanian"> | " voice " | << comm. channel >>
Post II
​

Belisarius listened to the response of the Empress, there was little else to say or respond as the doors openend and the two delegations entered after each other. The half-Valkyries purple gaze observed the people entering, having very little to say or think about the Ashlans other than diplomatically inappropriate things. He would not act up like a child here and now, that much he could remember of his diplomatic training decades ago.

When the Iron Emperor followed by uniform with Grand Moff stripes entered, he was more intrigued. Rurik Fel was not some meagre zealot of some religion, not some upstart noble or arrogant general. He was the heir of Tavlar, the commander of the greatest army and fleet in the current galaxy and a warrior of great reputation. More so, he was not tainted by Light or Dark side and would stand against either dogmatic madness. That was Bel's ideal, his hope.

And of course that the past actions of several present individuals could be overcome. They were put into this room like a beast in a cage, their claws pulled back, the fangs hiding in fake smiles.

Once everyone had placed themselves, the Empress made her introduction, followed by the Overseer. Belisarius was surprised by the sheer amount of water - fluid, clear, nothing. So many words but so little possibility to progress, except downwards. The past is not the hook to catch this fish, it is the blood in the water which attracts the hunters.

The Field Marshal required not a small amount of control and restraint to not show obvious reactions to this opening moves. But he knew his place, he was here not to speak without being asked, the Eternal Empire was no place to act out of the line, soldiers were not there to impose their will or free spirit onto someone else, especially not their superiors.

His gaze set upon the Eternal Empress as the Overseer had finished, he would turn back for the one responding first. But he would keep his thoughts obvious and on the surface, aware of her possible awareness.

Why are we not relying on our most uniting thoughts and ideals? We are order, law, we do not tolerate Force or religious zeal. Maw, Alliance, Concord, Jedi ... if we join arms, we can bring actual order and stability to the Galaxy. Do not appeal to forgiveness, we have mutual strength and approaches. The Sith and Jedi will not stand a chance, neither Bogan nor Ashla can stand against the Enlightenment.

It was just his hope that his liege would accidentally pick up his feelings and thoughts.

 

[Hi'los Krai]

Hi’los Krai

Lord Commander of the Wardens of the Shroud | Field Marshal of the Eternal Army | Baron of Tygeria

The Undying

​

Objective: Orbital Summit
Location: Crimson Empress, Audience Chamber
Equipment: Hersir Imperial Uniform | 2x Shroudsabers (Hidden) | OPBC-01m
Tag: Ingrid L'lerim Baron Reinhardt Ström Rurik Fel Pietro Demici Isla Draellix-Kobitana Ul-Tam-Ban Gideon Saigo Belisarius Vactovion

​

Politics, while it may not have been combat, it was just as taxing and dangerous. Politics could bring down nations or build them up. Politics was the true front in every war. Today was an important day, he knew. The New Imperial Order were here, this was his first time meeting the Iron Emperor and he was there to make sure the Eternal Empire had all the support they needed.

The delegations arrived seconds later, and Hi'los observed them as they walked in. The Iron Emperor got his attention, an intriguing figure, though he supposed all were in times like these. His thoughts wandered for a second, to the planet below, Dromund Kaas. It's dark history made it a depressing place, though some Sith still kept the will to fight, there were only pockets on the surface.

Hi'los didn't agree with a lot of the decisions made by the Eternal Empire, but he supported them nonetheless. They believed unity among two nations would fix thing, but no, only unity across the galaxy would save it. Nations working side by side to fix the messes they made. He sighed, he knew it would never happen, but there was hope. The Gen'Dai had mostly died fighting the Sith, and if Hi'los could forgive them for that deed, then maybe the others could too.

When he cleared his thoughts and came back to reality, he found the overseer speaking. The overseer spoke true and well, he truly was amazing for the job. Hi'los though, had much to learn. Nodding in an agreement, he scanned the group, eyeing Field Marshal Vactovion who seemed to want to speak.

​

​

 

[Lena Dracov]

Location: Dromund Kaas
Objective: Eliminate the targets
Equipment: Imperial "Hellhound" Combat Armour Mk. I | Viper Mk. I Skinsuit | HH-38 "Geysa" Hybrid Pistol | KC-47 Hybrid Strike Rifle | Lucius-pattern Bayonet
Tag: Lilanna Kelamvor Corin Autem Scipio Kaarz Eina L'lerim-Vandiir Domokos Gyula

Lena grinned at the joke, though it was hidden by her helmet. <<"Might be a bit hard for a 'man'.">> She put emphasis on the word man, joking about the Nightsisters views of men being lesser. <<"But who knows, maybe you'll be different.">> She said in a flirtatious manner. With that comment she moved up towards the Major.

Lena watched the two with her eyebrows creased, the small interaction between them was hardly noticeable, but interesting nonetheless. A small grin played across her face as she was called by Corin to the front. Casually walking up behind her as they stacked up on the cave entrance. <<”Maybe this time we’ll fight a Sith.”>> She said quietly, a gleam in her eyes.

Unholstering her pistol, she held it with her right hand, her grip tightening as she closed her eyes, summoning spirit ichor and forming it into a small orb, illuminating the area in front of the squad. But there was something else, when she had closed her eyes, she had connected to the force. She felt something dark, not coming from the planet… but what could it be. Opening her eyes again, a voice spoke out. <<”Something doesn’t feel right…”>> It took her a moment to realise the voice was her own.

The depressing atmosphere on the planet's surface wasn’t helping matters, but that didn’t matter. They were here to complete a mission, and so they would. Though it may not be as easy as they thought.

 

[Ivixa Nera'kas]

Location: Dromund Kaas
Call Sign: Rominaria Seven
Dialogue Legend: <"High Nelvaanian"> │ “Galactic Basic”
Tags: EE ( Lilanna Kelamvor Lena Dracov Corin Autem Domokos Gyula ) │ AC ( Eina L'lerim-Vandiir Scipio Kaarz )

Dromund Kaas’ dark and foreboding aura put a dour mood over the soldiers as they set about the work of hunting down the Sith resistance lurking in the planet’s savage jungles and dark swamps. For her part, Ivixa was undaunted by it, adhering to the focused and single-minded outlook she always adopted in completing her missions. It was a mindset that had taken her from the slums of the Scintilla to the rank of Special Agent, one of Blackwatch’s most capable assets.

Attached to the nascent Hellhounds as a Blackwatch liaison, while she technically outranked everyone here, Ivixa knew better than to flex her authority without good reason. This was Major Autem squad and letting the woman perform her work unmolested would yield a positive outcome, if her record with the Oathbreakers was any indication. While Ivixa had pride of her own, the slight to her ego was more bearable since the Major was not an outsider or worse, a Mandalorian mercenary.

She shuddered at the thought.

Holding position outside with the Warden while waiting for the Hellhounds to breach the temple, Ivixa sent her probe droid out to scan the area while she waited. The tiny, insect-like drone flew out from the Asa’nyx’s hand with a nigh-inaudible hum, before disappearing into the depths of the jungle.

If someone or something was watching them, Ivixa wanted to know who or what it was.

Spoiler: Loadout

• Ivixa’s Phase II “Glitter Ghost” Sniper Armor
  
  • Undersuit
    
    • UL-14 “Virtus” Class Underlay
  • Gauntlets
    
    • LPD-49 Astrapi Miniaturized Static Blaster - R
    • LPD-40 IceJet Miniaturized CryoBan Projector - L
    • FAE/M-02 Energized Gauntlet Vibroblade (2) - R/L
  • B-11 “Greitis” Class Combat Boots
    
    • FAE/MDW-01 Active Defense System (2) - R/L
      
      • Nagnol Gas Nano Missiles
      • Seeking Anti-Warhead Nano Missiles
  • Droid
    
    • ASBF-X86p “Njósnari” Probe Droid
  • Energy Shield
    
    • Phase III “Force Avenger” Energy Shield
• Ivixa’s FAE/W-01 “Rominaria” Sniper Rifle
• Magnetic Thermal Detonator (4)

 

[Pietro Demici]

Pietro Demici: Cardinal of Ashla

AC: Isla Draellix-Kobitana , Ul-Tam-Ban, Nol Akkos

NIO: Rurik Fel , Gideon Saigo

EE: Ingrid L'lerim , Baron Reinhardt Ström , Belisarius Vactovion, Hi'los Krai , Chamdar the Hutt

Age of Empires

Pietro listened intently to the words of the Empress and the Overseer, but his eyes remained on the New Imperials. He knew well the intentions of Ingrid and her companions in this matter, but the Cardinal was still trying to get a read on what the intentions of Rurik and the Grand Moff might be. Both were new faces to him, and this would be the perfect opportunity to gain some insight. As the opening statements continued, he leaned in toward the Grand Admiral, taking care to only speak loudly enough for her to hear.

~It is a fascinating thing, seeing to empires discuss politics. Such similarities, yet the two could not be more different from each other.~

These superpowers of the galaxy had been at odds for some time, crashing their forces against each other in fight after fight during a war that cost countless lives. And despite all of their efforts, even with the Empire gone, there were further battles always looming on the horizon. Battles that would be best fought while not having to look over one's own back. As the Overseer finished his opening statements, Pietro stood to address the delegation.

"The words of the Empress and Overseer ring true. I will be the first to admit that when the Ashlan Crusade first pursued our alliance with the Eternal Empire, it did not come naturally. We have many differences, perhaps even greater than those that exist between your two empires."

It was an understatement, and a complete downplay of the Cardinal's feelings towards the Eternal Empire. The thought of truly trusting them was far from his mind, as his suspicion of their motives remained forever present. Those thoughts weren't going to prevent Pietro from seeing the practicality of combined strength, however, and in the coming days, they would need all of it they could get.

"In the end, we both recognized that there are greater threats than each other. This self-proclaimed Sith'ari, the Dark Lord Solipsis, is the greatest threat to galactic security as we know it. We have certainly all felt the Bogan's deathly touch, from Csilla, to Coruscant, to the very planet below us now. Considering this, it would be beneficial for us to work together, or at least, maintain peace between us. Fighting on one front against the Maw is enough. We do not need to be looking over our shoulders while we do so."

With that, Pietro sat back in his seat, allowing the others to speak their peace as he continued to listen.

 

[Rurik Fel]

E M P E R O R
NEW IMPERIAL ORDER
THE IRONCLAD
EE | Ingrid L'lerim | Baron Reinhardt Ström | Belisarius Vactovion
AC | Pietro Demici | Isla Draellix-Kobitana | Ul-Tam-Ban
NIO | Gideon Saigo​

FALLS
​

The sentiment was confusing, nigh enigmatic from the Eternal Empire. Now, they spoke with a vote of sympathy and understanding with the aim of cooperation in their hearts and minds. But that was not always so. Times change, undeniable is that reality to the Emperor Fel. But as times change, the lines on the map swaying back and forth, buckling beneath the weight of light and darkness, some things remain the same. Rurik Fel, clad in iron, was one of those things. He could recall in the Rakata ruins of Generis seeking the life of Ingrid I'lerim, seeking a death by the sword in those stony halls. And now they spoke eye to eye, face to face in diplomatic exchange. He remembered then the vow of love and allegiance the now Empress swore to the Empire which she now called enemy.

Either she was disingenuous, deranged, or just a woman.

"I admire the...coming to consciousness, Empress. But the game of diplomacy is one played with reputation. What you have done matters just as much as to what I believe you will do. The enemy you speak of now, the one who come to call for us to unite again, is the very same the Empire has spent time and lives bleeding against for a generation now. You do not have to educate me or my people of the threats and the evils of the Sith. I trust in the Empire's ability to hold its resolve, field itself against the enemy and defeat decisively. The Ashlan Crusade, have stayed resolute in their aims and believes since they have come resurgent into the Galaxy. While I may not agree fundamentally with their beliefs, I understand their convictions." Rurik states.

"But what is...the aim of the Eternal Empire. It was not too long ago that your predecessor came to mine with the same calls for unity against the Sith...and you betrayed that vow and did all within your power short of war to inhibit the Empire's warpath against the Sith. But now the ashes have settled on the Civil War...and thus, you can comfortably declare a chosen victor...but you were content to work with Sith before...what assurances can my people have that you will not shift allegiances again, should things begin to look dire for the war effort against the Maw." While he was confident in an eventual victory against the Brotherhood of the Maw. Defeat and receding confidence was a dangerous beast, a self-fulfilling prophecy. If a people could be so demoralized of having no hope of victory, then there is no hope of victory even if the machine is still turning.

 

[Scipio Kaarz]

Scipio Kaarz: Magister Militum Dei of the Crusade

Tags: Eina L'lerim-Vandiir , Lilanna Kelamvor , Corin Autem , Rhiza Dural

The Lancers had been gone for some time now, no doubt closing in on the location of the ruins. As Scipio awaited their report, he noticed reports of a convoy near the Crusade's position. It seemed to be as he predicted, the ruins were not far from their current position. He quickly sent out a transmission to the Juror that watched them from above, hoping they could cut off the convoy from whatever their destination may be.

<<Sister Rhiza, this is Magister Kaarz. We are preparing to converge on the loyalist holdout. You are clear to engage. Our forces will keep clear to give you some breathing room. Do not let them reach the temple.>>

With that, Scipio ended the transmission, quickly calling to his officers to relay his orders. They would make sure to give the Juror plenty of room to shoot. It wasn't that the Magister distrusted the skills of the Juror; one had to be quite skilled in many things in order to achieve such a position. It was simply a matter of efficiency. The less Rhiza had to worry about potential friendly fire, the more she could be focused on killing the loyalists.

It wasn't long after that he saw the familiar face of Eina, the living symbol of the Sisters of Ashla. The Magister still knew little of her, but her presence carried all of Ashla's Light with it, bringing a warmth to the souls around her. He offered her a bow in return before looking to the map once again.

"I am awaiting word from the Lancer Corps about potential enemy positions. Once we get the confirmation, I will be moving in with Deus Company."

In truth, Scipio hadn't been at the head of an assault for quite some time. Most of his recent months with the Crusade had been of a more tactical nature, often pulling him away from where the action was the thickest. It wasn't that he wasn't a fighter. On the contrary, his younger years were spent fighting under the banner of the NIO. His greater strategic training had only come when his former commander recognized his talent, prompting him to find a place in one of the Empire's top officer academies. Since then, he had been dictating from the rear, rather than fighting in the front. It had been a while since his trigger finger had been put to use, and he was itching to remedy that today.