Private Glad You Came

[Jairdain]

Upon hearing there was a delegation of representatives from the Eternal Empire coming to knock on their door, Jairdain had agreed to the meeting. Arranging for an area in the Embassy to be made ready, it had been several years since she had last been in this building. In fact, it had been so long it was almost a new location for her. Luckily, things hadn't changed as much as they could have.

As memories of her days here as a Padawan, Knight and from the time when she was the advisor to the Crown Prince came flooding back...she made sure the area was ready for their guests. This time, she did it alone, without the presence of Brad with her. Smiling with a touch of sorrow, she still missed that man. He had been missing for so long, she almost wondered if he were dead. If that had been the case, she was sure she would have somehow known. Nothing had spoken to her through the Force so she was positive he was still alive.

Shaking the mental haze of her memories away, she needed to focus on the present and make sure things were going to be ready for the entourage that would be arriving soon. Fortunately, she had word from Jax he would be escorting them. Knowing they were secure in his hands, all she needed to do was make sure there was space for all of them. What she wasn't sure of was how many were coming from the Eternal Empire. That question would be answered as soon as they arrived and if anything extra was needed, then it would be taken care of.

Checking on the amount of time she had before they were supposed to be there, she sighed but realized she was pretty much finished. Taking a seat at the table, now she needed to do was wait. There was no seating arrangement, no names on cards...it was different than the last time but the same location. A room that was exposed to the sun and let in the light of the day.

Plants were near the windows but she had made sure where they would be sitting wasn't going to be blasted with the sun. On the chance that happened, shades could be lowered the windows covered. She didn't think that would though but had taken care to think of it and made sure to have it ready in case.

Making sure there were refreshments, Jairdain poured herself some water and took a sip. Setting the glass down on the table, she heard the steps of Jax coming and smiled to herself. Along with those familiar steps came unfamiliar ones and these belonged to those coming from the Eternal Empire.

Ingrid L'lerim Jax Thio Thurion Heavenshield

 

[Jax Thio]

Location: SJC Embassy
Equipment: Formal Clothing, Jax's Prosthetic Arm, Jax's Second Lightsaber, Promise Ring to Jairdain
Tag: Jairdain , Ingrid L'lerim , Thurion Heavenshield

Jax was still recovering from the battle of Coruscant.

His body was still hurting with each step being excruciating without painkillers and Jax still had a bad lip on his right leg. Furthermore, he still sported the cuts and bruises on his face. Once again, Jax nearly died in battle and barely escaped with his life but here he was at Jaidain's behest to watch over this secret meeting. At first Jax was a bit hesitant partially because of his current health but also because this was Silver business and Jax was part of the GA. There was a bit of tension between the two factions lately nothing major but Jax felt that his presence could compromise whatever Jairdain was planning to do. However what made him come was the fact that it was a meeting with the Eternal Empire and that Ingrid was going to be involved.

Now that was a name that Jax hasn't heard in a long time. Ingrid was a woman whom Jax was acquainted with during the war against the Bryn. He was one of the few people to take her warnings seriously. The Jedi was glad that Ingrid escaped execution, she would've definitely been tried for that in that Kangaroo Court. Also Jax had a wedding ring in his pocket, this was the perfect opportunity for Jax to propose to Jair. They've been together long enough and Jax wanted to make Jair happy and although their relationship was rather rocky lately he still loved her and she him.

Wearing the clothes Jair gave him, Jax limped to Jair's sighed feeling really awkward in this rich people's clothing. Why oh why couldn't it be his Jedi Robes. "Hey Jair," Jax said smiling. "It's been sometime.... Sorry I didn't contact you things have been hectic as you see me right now."

Jax gulped as he waited for the others to arrive.

 

[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: Start diplomatic relations with the SJC
Location: Embassy, Commenor
Equipment: The Soulsabers (hidden) | Brynja coat and hat | Hersir Imperial Uniform | Viper Mk. I Skinsuit | The Last Gift || Empyrean gland | OPBC-01m
SJC: Jairdain | Thurion Heavenshield | Jax Thio
EE: Felmorante L'lerim | Aximand Sicarus | Corin Autem | Ivixa Nera'kas (?) | Taozi Fuyuan (?) | Trinity Harris (?)

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

Commenor, again; when Ingrid was last here, she spied on Caedyn Arenais. In addition, she doesn’t usually spend much time in SJC space, at most on Zeltros. She continued the good old traditions that Adrian started. They only came with an average Star Destroyer. She refused to bring a larger ship. After all, it was a diplomatic mission, and they hadn’t officially had a relationship with the Silver Jedi… yet.

Ingrid, when she supported TSE, and especially only Adrian, had a personal clash and duel with several people, but with most of them, the woman has been in an alliance ever since. For many long years. Such as Colonel Beltran Rarr or Mathieu Brion . She also knew Sakadi Marathi Sinvala , although her relationship with the woman was quite cold, despite the fact that they had not fought on Anzat. In addition to these, she also had many acquaintances and allies in the highest circles of the SJC, such as Thurion Heavenshield . So the woman was optimistic.

The Empress and her escort were accompanied by four Wolfsguard, the four soldiers first came out of the dropship after landing. Ingrid, as always, wears a military uniform with a military coat and cap. As always she did not wear an award, rank insignia, she never did it. The red-haired woman glanced at a familiar person who came to the landing zone to welcome them. Jax Thio, a Jedi. She met him at the beginning of her captivity. He wanted to believe in her and supported her.

"Mr. Thio, welcome! It was a long time ago, when we met last time. Please accompany us to the meeting room." she said and greeted the man in her usual, cold, military voice. If the man gets going and then she follows him.

 

[Aximand Sicarus]

TAG: Ingrid L'lerim Trinity Harris Jairdain Thurion Heavenshield Jax Thio

Aximand felt quite out of his element, and in more ways than one. He was aboard another officer's ship for starters. He was no stranger to visiting another officer's command of course, but it was usually for an inspection or otherwise brief visit of someone under his oversight. While Commodore Rei'ka was technically under Aximand's command in his newly derived capacity of Rear Admiral, and she was more than capable in her duties, it still felt strange actually being conveyed aboard a ship he wasn't in command of. He supposed he would have to get used to that moving forward, as much as he would have to get used to the Empress requesting his presence at such... high level events.


Of course, such an invitation did not come without reason - for he served dutifully at the Empress's side at Keskin, Panatha, and most recently at Danuta. His promotion by the Empress herself was an honor enough, but to be invited to accompany her to such affairs seemed completely above what anyone would expect. Although his reputation for unquestioning loyalty and brutal efficiency preceded him amongst many circles, which commended him well for recognition by his sovereign; Aximand was still just a daring, mildly reckless ship captain at heart. Such a thought begged the question - why did the Empress bring him along to begin with?


Although he had acquired some level of courteous decorum over the years given his popularity at events among the aristocracy during his tenure as a Commodore, he was no diplomat. He was not known for his ability to navigate sensitive political topics, to placate self-important diplomats, or reason with tact and insight. He was a leader of men and women on the field of battle, and he knew how to get the best of those under his command. Surely there were those better suited to this task that the Empress could have called upon, but as the thought crept through his mind, a flash of realization came upon him.


To the best of his knowledge, the Jedi as a whole were peaceful - preferring nonviolence as a general rule. But the Silver Jedi Concord were a different breed. For decades, they were heavily involved in nothing but war - from staving off the Bryn'adûl threat, to supporting the Galactic Alliance in their war against The Eternal Empire, to more recently fighting to contain the Brotherhood of the Maw. In fact, didn't they recently have to stave off an incursion on Coruscant itself? Perhaps his presence was meant to project strength - strength in several different senses.


Strength in Empress L'lerim's authority, for rumors had spread of the seeds of disloyalty resulting in Tacitus' fall from grace. Strength in the Empire as a whole, perhaps? Despite how seemingly outnumbered the Maw were, arrayed against such considerable powers as the Silver Jedi, Galactic Alliance, CIS and the New Imperial Order, they still stubbornly endured. Perhaps his presence was meant to help reinforce the fact that the Empire was ascendant once again - and that it was capable of being a valuable ally, particularly if the NIO decided it no longer needed to play nice with the other two powers of its triumvirate. Conversely, such strength would show that the Empire could well be a stubborn foe should the Jedi decide to make them the next target to be exterminated.


Aximand didn't much care for that idea. While he was a very capable commander, he had already fought a war in which his nation was vastly outnumbered. They survived the first war, but how likely was it to do so again?


His thoughts were soon interrupted as he accompanied the Empress's retinue from the ship which conveyed them to the planet's surface. The Rear Admiral was adorned in his formal dress, complete with a few of his medals earned over the years. A flash of both mild embarrassment and slight incredulity passed through his thoughts as he spied just how spartanly the Empress presented herself, but his craggy features hid it well. Yet, with his manicured but still wolfish appearance combined with his eyepatch and facial scars, one could say he needed all the help he could get to not appear completely menacing. The Empress didn't have that problem, for she was the embodiment of stately beauty even in such simple attire.


They paused in front of a pair of Jedi, and the Empress addressed one of them as 'Jax', as if she knew them. That was certainly an intriguing story to possibly learn, but for now the Admiral decided to remain silent - allowing his sovereign to take the lead.

 

[Trinity Harris]

Spoiler: Today's outfit

SJC: Jairdain | Thurion Heavenshield | Jax Thio
EE: Felmorante L'lerim | Aximand Sicarus | Corin Autem | Ivixa Nera'kas (?) | Taozi Fuyuan (?) | Ingrid L'lerim

Trinity looked in the mirror of the state room that had been assigned to her for this duty. It was much larger than the room she used on her research vessel, tucked neatly in her hangar of the Empress star destroyer. She felt honoured to be invited to a gathering such as this, she had rubbed shoulders with many great minds, but today, these were people that could make her grand plans for healing the galaxy a reality. The Eternal Empire had become a very useful avenue to push her research forwards.

She stood up and adjusted her outfit, she had picked something as formal as she could find in her wardrobe for this, she didn't have access to all the dress uniforms that the military people had, but she would make sure she looked the part. She also fiddled with the small metal armature that ended a centimetre in front of her eye, she was considering getting a Maniac chip installation, and one of her colleagues had rigged this kit as a demo, to see if she could get used to the intrusive HUD projection elements before she took the plunge and got a full install.

An alarm went off, summoning her to the meeting point where she joined the rest of the dignitaries. She recognised several of the faces from the recent ball, but didn't get chance to interact with any of them personally before she got, distracted. Trinity considered approaching the Empress or one of the important looking staff herself, but her shy bookworm self seemed to be dominating her more recently discovered confidence right now. She should probably let someone else make the first move. Right now she walked quietly toward the rest of the retinue, her Maniac demo set was giving her small bits of information about the people around, but without full connectivity it was mainly just names and rank, something she could certainly just ask them.

One person she did want to speak to was Aximand Sicarus . He was a hero of the final battle against the Bryn and his work had catalysed her own progress. First hand experience of the Bryn themselves was extremely valuable for her research. She tried to catch his eye and offer him a smile as they followed the Empress, but right not wasn't the time to be chin wagging. She supressed her imposter syndrome and stroked along 'confidently' as if she belonged.

 

[Felmorante L'lerim]

WHEELIN AND DEALIN

Equipment: Powered Wheelchair, Enviroweave Blanket, Cloths, and Boots, over Viper Mk. I Skinsuit, Dark Purple pair of Wrist Dazzlers as ornamental bracelets, 3 Whimsy Knives
Objective: Be Civil
EE Tag: Ingrid L'lerim Aximand Sicarus Trinity Harris Ivixa Nera'kas Taozi Fuyuan Corin Autem
SJC Tag: Jairdain Jax Thio Thurion Heavenshield

She had felt a bit more upbeat of late, even being resigned to the wheelchair.

Well.

As upbeat as an eighteen year old could be with no feeling yet in her legs. She wheeled herself through the ship, needing the practice as she became more sure of her grip when propelling herself forward.

It wasn't as though she were ever actually alone. Whether a designated guard, or one of several at any given time, there were always a set of eyes on her. And today especially they had watched with intent given the meeting ahead.

Which made any sort of trip to do anything aside from breath, eat, nap, or physical therapy an adventure in protocol and reason against the more scheduled based minds around her. The dropship had been a welcome change of pace, being helped with boarding by an escort before they had set out for the planet in question.

Her escort unlocked her chair as she watched Ingrid lead the way down and out. The ship guy was going also, as well as the book eater. She huffed, batting at her escorts hands before managing, albeit with mild difficulty, to get off the dropship by her own power.

She kept up with them, highly tempted to give someone a flat tire with her foot rest but thinking much better of the idea. The importance of this meeting had been impressed upon her a number of times. And had been reminded to be polite. A number of times.

And been told to keep out of trouble...a number of times.

 

[Thurion Heavenshield]

Having only just stepped off his ship at the Commenori Space Port, the Valkyri-clad Jedi wandered the streets leading up the SJC Embassy where this meeting was taking place. Observing the citizens go about their business, much like he would back home, Thurion could not help but think of WolfMortum . Yet another dearly departed soul from his glory days he'd been fated to outlive, leaving him all the more bereft of companions.

"Are you watching as well, old friend? Commenor stands tall. May she never crumble. I cannot speak for the dead, but I hope there is still happiness where you are. You deserve it. You both do."

Coming up on the Embassy entrace, Thurion walked on through with long strides befitting one as tall as he, shaking the weariness of such a long journey from his bones. Midvinter is a long ways off the nearest hyperspace lane, adding at least a full day's journey in order to reach the Colonies. No Jedi robes adorned his person, but rather the dark and dreary leathers of his homeworld accompanied by a white wolf fur draped around his shoulders which only added to his already impressive frame.

Stepping inside the room, he viewed those that had thus far gathered, unsure whether more were scheduled to arrive. Content to remain anonymous for those precious few moments before someone inevitably noted his arrival, he quietly removed his leather gloves and undid the clasp of his cloak, folding it into a neat bundle along with the fur.

"Lady Empress," he came before Ingrid L'lerim first, as was befitting one monarch to another. More than this, she herself was a descendant of his people. "Looking radiant as ever," he smiled and kissed her hand, before turning to the rest of the room.

"My good delegates, please forgive my tardiness. I came as swiftly as I could after I received word of this meeting. I must confess, my wife and I were... reluctant, to part again so soon. But I wanted to be here in person."

Taking a seat under which he had tucked his belongings, he offered his fellow Jedi a nod and a smile.

SJC: Jairdain Jax Thio
EE: Ingrid L'lerim Aximand Sicarus Trinity Harris Felmorante L'lerim
Ivixa Nera'kas Taozi Fuyuan Corin Autem ​

 

[Ivixa Nera'kas]

Location: Silver Jedi Concord Embassy - Commenor
Attire: VA-BWu | Visel Arms Ltd. │ Viper Mk. I Skinsuit
Equipment: Phase III “Force Avenger” Energy Shield - Hidden Within Outfit (Deactivated) │ G1 OmniLink - UltraDeluxe
Silver Jedi Concord: Jairdain Jax Thio Thurion Heavenshield
Eternal Empire: Ingrid L'lerim Aximand Sicarus Trinity Harris Felmorante L'lerim

It was an odd, unconventional delegation, one strangely bereft of diplomats and instead seemingly composed of various accomplished individuals within the Eternal Empire, led by the Empress herself, followed firstly by the Axe of Orellon II, a Rear Admiral of recent fame for his cleansing of the Bryn'adûl over Danuta. Then, an Imperial scientist of particular note, known for her research in terraforming polluted worlds. Finally, there was Ivixa herself and...

Some girl in a wheelchair.

The tiny Blackwatch assassin felt a mild sense of unease, as needless to say, diplomacy did not even remotely resemble the normal missions and operations she was often tasked with. Fortunately, the prospect of rubbing shoulders with the elite was no longer completely foreign to her. Nevertheless, Ivixa felt the weight of the Empire on her narrow shoulders, even if the Empress and others were there to shoulder the bulk of the burden. It hadn’t been long since she had lived in that cheap, stale-aired apartment within the slums of the Scintilla, sustaining her family on a meager salary as a rank-and-file Wild Huntress. The diminutive ex-terrorist turned-state-sanctioned assassin had changed since that period, especially in the aftermath of the Confederacy’s attack on H.O.P.E., which strengthened her will, but ironically weakened her faith in the Agents of Chaos. Under Blackwatch, Ivixa had uncovered her destiny, thereby hitting her stride with the support and encouragement of the Empress.

As the delegation gathered within the Embassy, Ivixa took in the faces within, known and unknown. Perhaps most prominent was the towering, grizzled figure of the Lion King, the Champion of the Silver Order and High King of the Light. She also recognized Jax Thio , a Jedi who had been one of the few allies of the Empress and perhaps one of the more levelheaded Knights of the New Jedi Order. Then, she saw Jairdain , the Master Diplomat of the Silver Order and one of the individuals who Ivixa expected to hear the most from throughout the meeting.

Giving a deep breath after assessing the others, Ivixa blinked idly as she waited for the meeting to begin...

 

[Jairdain]

It hadn't been too long ago that Jairdain had heard her lover had entertained the Empress. This was why she had asked Jax to help with this meeting. Having at least one familiar face in a potentially strange setting might help set the person's nerves at ease. She had never met Ingrid but had known other people from her Empire. That meeting had happened many years ago but it had proved very enlightening to the people involved. Jairdain included. Sadly, nothing had ever come of it and the two of them had parted ways never to meet again. Not really thinking about this distant and past meeting, she waited on the people coming today.

Smiling just a little when Jax brought the Silver Jedi's guests, she welcomed all of them with a gesture to sit and make themselves as comfortable as they could. Space was there for each of them and there was the offering of water to drink and pastries to eat.

"Welcome. We are very glad you came."

Giving each of them a smile as she spoke, it had been the Eternal Empire that requested this gathering. The best setting Jairdain could think of was this Embassy where the ground was neutral and the talks could take place. After this wrapped up, she would go to the Council and they would make any final decisions. Everything was currently in the court of Ingrid and her people. She would listen and report only to come back with an answer.

"Please sit and tell me what brought you here."

With the support of Jax and Thurion, she felt this was going to go well and both parties would be satisfied with the outcome.

Jax Thio Ingrid L'lerim Thurion Heavenshield Ivixa Nera'kas Felmorante L'lerim Trinity Harris Aximand Sicarus

 

[Jax Thio]

Location: Meeting Place
Equipment: Formal Clothing, Jax's Prosthetic Arm, Jax's Second Lightsaber, Promise Ring to Jairdain
Tag: Jairdain , Ingrid L'lerim , Thurion Heavenshield , Ivixa Nera'kas , Felmorante L'lerim , Trinity Harris , Aximand Sicarus

"Lady Ingrid," Jax said smiling bowing to the red headed woman he could hear a pop in his back while did so causing the Jedi to wince in pain. He called upon the Force to ease the discomfort throughout his sore body. "It's wonderful to see you again, I was waiting for an opportunity to tell you that you were right about the Bryn. About everything."

Jax continued to beam on Ingrid, she spoke in her usual cold demeanor but he can tell that Ingrid was happy to see him. In her own way of course. "I just wanted to let you know, Lady Ingrid you've opened my eyes and influenced me to immediately take action against the Bryn. Now with the Brotherhood of the Maw attacking Courscant and well..... You see the injuries upon me."

The battle was still etched into Jax's mind almost as much as the time he died at Ziost. Everyone needed to take action once again, but Jax wasn't exactly sure why the SJC was meeting with the Eternal Empire. "The GA will endure," Jax replied. "But I'm not sure what's their intentions, the Jedi aren't exactly in the loop these days."

It was pretty much an open secret that the NJO and GA Senate weren't on the best of terms and that's putting it kindly. "But I'm sure we'll get past our differences," Jax shrugged. "We always do but it's so good to see you Lady Ingrid."

Turning his gaze upon Aximand, Jax gave him a curt bow. "Aximand Sicarus," Jax said. "I've heard a lot about you especially your brilliance during the Stygan Campaign, It's an honor to meet you sir."

Guiding the guests to the meeting place Jax stood next to her and stared everyone filing in. Time to see what was going on.

 

[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: Start diplomatic relations with the SJC
Location: Embassy, Commenor
Equipment: The Soulsabers (hidden) | Brynja coat and hat | Hersir Imperial Uniform | Viper Mk. I Skinsuit | The Last Gift || Empyrean gland | OPBC-01m
SJC: Jairdain | Thurion Heavenshield | Jax Thio
EE: Felmorante L'lerim | Aximand Sicarus | Ivixa Nera'kas | Trinity Harris

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

On the way inside, she was talking to Jax. Ironically, for the woman, that encounter happened a very, very long time ago. Out of the corner of her eye, she looked to Fel for a moment. She regretted not being able to completely heal the girl. But now she belonged to the family because Ingrid and Tubrok had adopted her, officially. She nodded to Jax.

"But I didn't achieve much with it, I managed to convince some people, but the large factions still didn't care. Fortunately, however, this issue has been successfully resolved." she said.

Showing regret wasn’t exactly the woman’s strength, so again, it was just a nod to respond to the man. She never boasted of her results, so the Empress had no intention of saying out loud that she had saved most of Coruscant's citizens because she had teleported the Maw's quantum bomb to the Netherworld.

"I hope you recover as soon as possible. I was on Coruscant too when the attack happened." that's all she said. "I'm glad too to see you again, Mr. Thio."

After that, they entered the room, where the other two diplomats were already there. As Thurion approached her, she greeted the man first. A sincere smile appeared on the woman's face, following the king's greeting. Although the man's touch and hand kiss were painful for the woman because of the Light side, she showed no sign of it. Ingrid was sincerely pleased with the man's presence. After the man's words, she nodded politely.

"High King! It is always a pleasure to see you. I’m sorry this happens so rarely, thanks to the fact that we live at the different ends of the galaxy. I am sincerely glad that Midwinter is now safe and no longer threatened by Bryn'adûl." she said kindly.

She then turned to the third SJC diplomat.

"Master Jairdain, I'm glad to finally get to know you, I've heard a lot about you!" she nodded to the woman. "I would like to introduce my companions, my stepdaughter, princess Felmorante L'lerim. The lady is Dr. Trinity Harris, who has recently been working on how to re-terraform the planets conquered by Bryn'adûl. Ivixa Nera'kas, Security Officer and Admiral Aximand Sicarus, who played a major role in the Danute victory." she explained.

She then took a seat and looked at the three diplomats.

"We have wanted to establish diplomatic relations with the SJC before, we have offered help against Bryn'adûl, military help, and humanitarian aid. Then, however, we did not receive an answer from you. But now that the common enemy has collapsed and our states have no diplomatic relationship with each other at the state level. During the reign of Darth Tacitus, the Eternal Empire was a very closed state, I want to change that. I am aware that our states are very different from each other, but I am confident that we can begin to get to know each other. We were thinking primarily of trade relations and joint scientific cooperation, especially in connection with the clean-up and repopulation of the former Bryn'adûl areas."

 

[Aximand Sicarus]

TAG: Jairdain Thurion Heavenshield Jax Thio Ingrid L'lerim Felmorante L'lerim Ivixa Nera'kas Trinity Harris

As niceties were being exchanged, Aximand took the time whilst Ingrid began the introductory exchange with the Jedi to appraise those in attendance; much like how he analyzes a battlefield at the outset of an engagement. The three representatives of the Jedi were unexpectedly diverse in his appraisal. The singular woman on their team carried herself with a calm reservation, indicative of a diplomat. It reminded Aximand of shrewd members of the aristocracy back on Kalidan, those who set themselves apart from the typical grandstanding and 'saber rattling' of the typical nobility one saw in Imperial Hierarchy. Just as those who carried themselves with shrewdness and care in Imperial society tended to outlast those who were a bit more boisterous, so too did Aximand feel about Jairdain . Her greeting of them all was courteous enough to be sure, but Aximand would not allow himself to underestimate this woman in the least.

The man standing next to her however, was a tad easier to read. He carried himself as if he'd been through hell itself, from bruises and scars, to the weight he seemingly carried on his shoulders. Based on the conversation thus far, it appeared as though he was on Coruscant during the recent incursion on the planet by infiltrators from the Sith Empire and Brotherhood of the Maw. Recent intelligence from Blackwatch made available to senior members of the Eternal Fleet indicated the planet was all but sacked - a ruin of its former glory. Ancillary reports had come through - rumors that the New Jedi Order was separating from the Galactic Alliance, and the NIO had dissolved the Bastion Accords. No doubt, this was why the Silver Jedi had agreed to this meeting, as he previously had suspected. But to see a representative of the New Jedi Order among them seemed significant, and the implication that Ingrid and this 'Jax' were friends was also quite telling. Not but two years ago, the Alliance and Empire were enemies, fighting each other for five long, bitter years. Aximand wasn't a man to pry into matters that didn't concern him, but he was indeed curious how his Empress had forged a relationship with a man that had fairly recently been their enemy.

The Rear Admiral was doubly taken aback when Jax Thio turned his attention to him with a hint of... admiration? It wasn't entirely unheard of for soldiers formerly on opposite sides of a conflict to express such admiration to one another after the cessation of hostilities, but in truth Aximand had rarely experienced such an encounter. Most of his enemies were either dead, or he had never met them again, such as the still active Commodore Liedran Kathause . They had met upon the field of battle several times during the Stygian Campaign, and each time they both escaped with their lives. Their ships, on the other hand, did not fare quite as well. Both commanders had lost several ships to each other during that war, which chagrined them both exceedingly. Aximand counted it as a good thing the woman wasn't here now - chances are, he wouldn't be able to remain quite as civil in her presence. But who knew for certain? Aximand's demeanor shifted ever so slightly at Jax's mention of the war, but his slight lapse in his otherwise stoic demeanor was quickly restored as he cracked a wry grin at the Jedi, and nodded slightly out of gratitude. "Bloody business, that was. Thank you for your kind words, yet it was in the service of my Emperor and Empress."

Aximand was many things; ruthless, calculating, intimidating, but on the flipside of that same coin, he carried a few positive qualities such as a level of humility, and although he was feared by many within and without the Empire by virtue of his reputation, he was well respected by his crewmen and what officers he delt with on a regular basis. One Admiral had said of him: "He's a heartless bastard, but he's my heartless bastard." In truth, Aximand wasn't necessarily heartless. He cared about the men and women under his command, including in a more secret fashion a certain Lt. Commander who always seemed to make him smile a bit more broadly than he did otherwise. He cared about his country - The Eternal Empire made him into the man he was today, whatever good or ill implications that carried. And he cared about his sovereign. He would be the first to admit that Ingrid was not exactly to his taste near the beginning of her reign. Tacitus was much more traditional, and Aximand was freer to do what was needed to accomplish his directives under his reign. Ingrid had changed everything - for starters, by placing a proverbial leash on him and many other senior commanders who were part of the old order of things prior to her ascension. She then instituted reforms that many, Aximand included, were convinced would result in the collapse of the Empire they had bled to defend. Yet, quite to the contrary, the Empire had entered into a golden age of sorts both domestically and militarily. While it would be a touch naive to attribute such a development solely on Ingrid, it would also be a grave disservice to fail in recognizing that she was still evermore crucial to said developments occurring. While he disagreed with her stance on a host of issues and policies, he couldn't argue with the results they yielded. For that, she had his loyalty. She had it previously of course, for Aximand was no traitor by any means. But previously, she merely had his body which served in lockstep along with the rest of the Imperial war machine. But over the coming months, she had slowly begun to win his heart. Not in the romantic sense, despite the fact she was exceedingly beautiful. But in the way a formerly despised acquaintance can eventually win over one's heart, and become someone they genuinely respect.

Their presence - his presence - was proof positive of that respect he held for her. It was at this moment that he realized he had paused a touch too long after Jax issued his compliment, and after his own polite reply. Not the one to allow himself to be the awkward source of a conversation's death, Aximand added: "Did you serve in the war, Master Jedi? It is my understanding that you are also a well regarded warrior, which can plainly be seen even today. Perhaps we served in the same theater of war, none the wiser of this day in which we now stand in front of each other." Aximand's craggy features once again softened with a slight smile. As he awaited the Jedi's reply, he cast a quick glance at the third Jedi of their reception host - Thurion Heavenshield . One look at the man bespoke a natural authority which any man or woman in his presence would be helpless to see. Such was the aura true Kings exuded, from what Aximand could tell. Tacitus had that bearing. He was a man who commanded respect and fear. Thurion on the other hand, was different. Aximand did not know the Jedi-King well, but he would be interested to learn more about him. For now, however, he contented himself to getting to know Jax a bit better whilst Ingrid exchanged pleasantries with the other two.

 

[Trinity Harris]

Spoiler: Today's outfit

SJC: Jairdain | Thurion Heavenshield | Jax Thio
EE: Felmorante L'lerim | Aximand Sicarus | Corin Autem | Ivixa Nera'kas | Taozi Fuyuan (?) | Ingrid L'lerim

Trinity being introduced as by the Empress immediately put her more at ease that she was meant to be here amongst the powerful. At her introduction she spoke up.

"Thank you my Lord," she spoke with reverence to the Empress then turned to the greeting Jedi masters. "Master Jedis, it is certainly an honour to be part of this delegation and I thank you for your warm welcome. I have spent quite a bit of my career studying the Bryn'adul and would enjoy the opportunity to discuss the matter with your science Directorate. The displaced people of the galactic South East are yearning to be able to return home safely."

She then turned to Aximand Sicarus "I believe your first hand experience with their macro-fauna could also add value to that same conversation Admiral."

She had said her piece and introduced herself, this really was a massive opportunity, was it the people or the opportunity that was causing her nerves, they were just people like her, all leaders in their field, be it naval, military, or jediing?

She smiled and politely bowed her head to the masters and returned to her quiet contemplation. She looked at the diminutive soldier that the Empress had introduced, the small but curvaceous Ivixa Nera'kas in military garb reminded her of someone that gave her a warm feeling inside and reminded her how to be confident and proud of her work. She needed to stop being this shy bookworm today and go and kick some intellectual butt.

 

[Jairdain]

Retaking her seat after everybody was introduced, she once again motioned slightly to the refreshments offered but did not mention them verbally. If they wanted anything, it would be there for them. Listening to the red-haired woman, she kept her face mostly emotionless, however, her eyes might have indicated some of her feelings.

This was a skill she had never learned, how to keep everything hidden from those around her. War and destruction were never-ending but it appeared, at least one movement had been halted. The Bryn'Adul were finished and after their leader apparently disappeared, they had collapsed. Of course, there were many other governments wanting to make moves across the Galaxy.

She listened to Ingrid and her eyes possibly held some thanks at her original offer of aide. It was unfortunate nothing had ever come of it. Thankfully, there did not seem to be any reason for it anymore. The Empress pointed out their governments were very different but that did not always mean there couldn't be some sort of cooperation, as she pointed out. What she wanted was to hear from the Doctor that was brought along. Would she be willing to also aide them? As if on cue, she spoke up.

Turning her attention to her, she listened. Trying to sense the intentions of the Doctor, Jairdain did not feel there was any deception involved. What was being said was true, there were many peoples that had been displaced by the almost unstoppable Bryn'Adul. They conquered worlds and made them inhabitable for themselves and did not care about the population. Leaving them to live or die. And that usually meant death.

"I am sure that can be arranged, Doctor. As for the trade, I will get into contact with the woman that covers that area."

That woman was actually a good friend of hers and she would easily go along with the idea of trade.

"Is there anything else Empress?"

It wasn't that she wanted to hurry the meeting or anything, she just wanted everything out on the table before moving on.

Jax Thio Ingrid L'lerim Thurion Heavenshield Aximand Sicarus Trinity Harris Ivixa Nera'kas Felmorante L'lerim

 

[Jax Thio]

Location: Meeting Place
Equipment: Formal Clothing, Jax's Prosthetic Arm, Jax's Second Lightsaber, Promise Ring to Jairdain
Tag: Ingrid L'lerim , Thurion Heavenshield , Aximand Sicarus , Trinity Harris , Ivixa Nera'kas , Felmorante L'lerim , Jairdain

"But you convinced people like me to join the cause," Jax smiled still using the Force to keep himself standing through the pain. "You did what you could under unfavorable circumstances and you've done a great job my lady."

Still Jax wondered if there was going to be any political fallout between the Eternal Empire and the Galactic Alliance, the Senate were hellbent in putting Ingrid in a "trial" for her alleged crimes. It was something Ingrid didn't deny but the Senate were out for blood. "You were?" Jax asked. "I'm pretty sure you did what you could to help my lady."

The Brotherhood were the new threat now, it just seemed like yesterday that the Sith Empire was destroyed. But a Jedi work is never done and there are always enemies lurking in the dark. The Jedi then turned his gaze upon Aximand who asked if he served in the last war. "Indeed I did," Jax answered ignoring the stinging pain in his ribs. "Can't say It was a pleasant experience War never is, but it does change a man."

Indeed, Jax learned a lot about himself during the war and became stronger for it. He just wished it didn't come at a cost of experiencing and witnessing so much and agony. "I've heard of your heroics during the campaign sir, my feats doesn't come close to what you did."

Though dying and coming back to life does come close.

"I've been recently promoted to Jedi Master Admiral Sicarus," Jax continued. "For my contribution in holding off the Brotherhood onslaught into the Jedi Temple. Though the term Master Jedi is used by Padawans and regular people. To be called a Master when I'm an actual Master is well humbling. I didn't think I'd ever become one."

Jax then limped towards Jairdain's side and stood at attention remaining silent and observing the audience.

 

[Felmorante L'lerim]

WHEELIN AND DEALIN

Equipment: Powered Wheelchair, Enviroweave Blanket, Cloths, and Boots, over Viper Mk. I Skinsuit, Dark Purple pair of Wrist Dazzlers as ornamental bracelets, 3 Whimsy Knives
Objective: Be Civil
EE Tag: Ingrid L'lerim Aximand Sicarus Trinity Harris Ivixa Nera'kas Taozi Fuyuan Corin Autem
SJC Tag: Jairdain Jax Thio Thurion Heavenshield

She did little more than nod from her chair as her introduction by Ingrid was made. She would be present to learn and listen as requested. A silent participant for the majority of this whole deal as she carefully placed herself behind Ingrid without blocking the chair in.

She wasn't that great a diplomat as the others present in any capacity. Given her favorite form of negotiations were held at the sharp end of a metal stick. Jedi were in her mind the great goody two shoe space wizards if only because of popular opinion.

Something she would be challenging herself to correct by being present in the very least. If nothing else it would give her material for the next time she encountered someone from the Silver Jedi.

For the time being, she settled in, adjusting her blanket about herself as the wheels of the chair gave a near silent click to inform her they had locked in place and she wouldn't be idly rolling about should the chair suddenly gain sentience and wish to run over people's heels without her.

 

[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: Start diplomatic relations with the SJC
Location: Embassy, Commenor
Equipment: The Soulsabers (hidden) | Brynja coat and hat | Hersir Imperial Uniform | Viper Mk. I Skinsuit | The Last Gift || Empyrean gland | OPBC-01m
SJC: Jairdain | Thurion Heavenshield | Jax Thio
EE: Felmorante L'lerim | Aximand Sicarus | Ivixa Nera'kas | Trinity Harris

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

"Yes, fortunately the Ashlan Crusade and partly the CIS also supported us. That's how we won. At least not a two-front war should be fought in the future. Although worrying, the Maw appeared on the besieged planet and tried to recruit allies from the Bryn'adûl. Not unexpected; I was expecting to be able to enter into an alliance, which is why we had to act." she explained in her usual cold voice.

Ingrid found the man very enthusiastic even now. He was so hyperactive even when they first met.

"The war between the Alliance and the Eternal Empire is over, but further negotiations will be needed with them as well." she answered. To the question that she had done everything, she just nodded.

It was tacitly agreed that the Alliance would refrain from Ingrid’s exile, and the Empress would not disclose that the Alliance had handed her over to the Admiral Regent Rausgeber, who was trying to assassinate her in a vile way. Not to mention daily physical and mental torture for more than a year. The physical was the NIO part, the mental was GA's method, none of which broke the woman.

Meanwhile, she also listened to what the others were talking about and sent a short telepathic message to Fel as well.

~ Are you feeling okay? ~ she asked.

She then turned in the direction of the Jedi. The Empress was one of those who perfectly learned to hide their thoughts and feelings, not even her eyes betrayed. But she noticed the gratitude in the other woman's eyes, to which she nodded very little.

"No, I think those are enough, Master Ismet. So far, I don’t see the point in more than that. I also assume they are distrustful of us because of our former allies. I think if we wanted more than that, it would only hurt current relationships. Let’s get to know each other first, let’s see if the most basic diplomatic relations work. If so, we will have the time and opportunity to think in further perspectives." she said.

 

[Jairdain]

While there were other conversations going on around the table, Jairdain's attention was solely on Ingrid. She was the woman of the most importance at this meeting. She would need to chat with the Council after this and it had been made clear to the group this was the case already. However, the requests were small and she was pretty positive an agreement was going to be easily made.

It almost seemed that Jax was partially enthralled by the Empress. Making no comment on this, perhaps she would ask him to tell her more about their time together. The political situation between the Alliance and the Eternal Empire was not too much of her concern. Maybe a little but not enough to make it matter at this meeting. There was no jealousy with the Master, just curiosity.

Ingrid pointed out there were likely going to be some of the Silvers who might be distrustful due to past alliances. As long as those were no longer present, she felt these feelings would be smoothed over. Nodding at the answer, she reached out to take a drink of the water in front of her and sat back in her chair. Allowing the others to converse around her, she felt her part in this meeting was finished. Now all she would need to do was talk to the Council.

Jax Thio Ingrid L'lerim Felmorante L'lerim Trinity Harris Aximand Sicarus Ivixa Nera'kas Thurion Heavenshield

 

[Aximand Sicarus]

TAG: Jax Thio Ingrid L'lerim Felmorante L'lerim Trinity Harris Ivixa Nera'kas Thurion Heavenshield Jairdain

Aximand's attention was arrested - however briefly - by the woman 'Trinity Harris' when she gave her introduction. 'Macro-fauna?' he mused to himself, a faint smirk of confusion and mild amusement over the term slipping across his features, only to be renewed as the Silver Jedi Diplomat known as Jairdain addressed the party. Not long after that, Jax responded to him, which left the Admiral feeling as though he had breached some unspoken protocol regarding a meeting such as this. It appeared niceties were still commencing even as the Jedi diplomat carried on with the Empress. For his part, Aximand merely nodded politely at Jax as he finished his reply, with the Admiral thereafter directing his attention to the Empress in an attempt to at least appear like he was relevant in the brief, yet greatly important exchange between the two women. This was, in fact, why they were all here, was it not?

He felt honored to be introduced by his Empress in such a fashion to be sure, but a few thoughts ran through his head, namely - if Trinity was to collaborate with the Silver Jedi's scientific research teams, and she deemed him important enough to be a part of that research, what did that mean? He'd be damned if he would allow himself to be cherry-picked from his new command only to serve as a glorified holo-terminal for his own exploits at Danuta. He was dour enough when he was in his element; he suspected he would be downright unpleasant in such a scenario. After both Ingrid and Jairdain finished their brief exchange which carried an understated importance that would affect two of the most powerful entities in the galaxy, Aximand chose that time to acknowledge Trinity Harris .

He leaned back and met the woman's eyes with his... eye, and said in a hushed, dignified manner whilst leaning over to her: "I assure you - my experience is rather limited. I'm afraid my expertise is merely how this... "macro-fauna" reacts to... extreme radiation burns." This time, he made no effort to contain the exceedingly wolfish grin lining his features. There really was little else to be done or said by the Admiral unless Ingrid felt the need to press him further, or if anyone else in the party opted to do so. He had become quite accustomed to being the equivalent of a table ornament, what was another few hours here and now? Despite the position he was in, Aximand felt it best to remain quiet to prevent overstepping or otherwise disrupting any ancillary goals behind this meeting, and therefore straightened up a bit in his chair and smoothed the wrinkles in his jacket.

​

 

[Jax Thio]

Location: Meeting Place
Equipment: Formal Clothing, Jax's Prosthetic Arm, Jax's Second Lightsaber, Promise Ring to Jairdain
Tag: Jairdain , Ingrid L'lerim , Aximand Sicarus , Felmorante L'lerim , Trinity Harris , Ivixa Nera'kas , Thurion Heavenshield

Jax stood by Jairdain's side remaining silent, he was curious to see what this meeting entails and how it could impact the Galactic Alliance. Given that the Jedi Master was the only GA representative he felt it was imperative to listen. Indeed Ingrid was right, the war between the Eternal Empire and the Alliance was over.... for now. However Jax couldn't help but wonder if the GA was still after Ingrid. Still it seems that the Eternal Empire was looking to expand their list of allies. Jairdain was an expert in negotiations and was particularly gifted in soothing even the most stubborn of people. As cold as Ingrid was, she was able to listen to reason.

"If I may interrupt," Jax said still grimacing a bit while he spoke. "Lady Ingrid, during your imprisonment I was tasked with guarding you. The Galactic Alliance and New Imperial were rather determined that you receive justice for your..... alleged crimes of allying with the former Sith Empire."

Jax sighed. "I am glad to see you again as an ally my lady," he said. "And I'm glad to see the Eternal Empire is negotiating with the Silvers. Yet as a servant for the Galactic Alliance I need to know something. What were the results of the trial my lady? Regrettably at that time, I was busy fighting the Bryn to pay attention to the political matters of you and the Alliance. I just want to make sure everything turned to be okay?"

Maybe it wasn't such a good idea to be part of this meeting loyalty to his friends (though Ingrid probably doesn't consider him a friend) and his lover were at odds to loyalty to the Alliance. Admittedly the temptation to relay the information to the Senate and NJO was there however there was a small part of Jax fighting back that notion. Maybe it was the Force telling him not to do it to trust Jairdain's judgement, but for peace of mind Jax wanted to know what happened.