Dominion Gloves of Metal | Dominion of The Redoubt | NIO

[Faceless Narrator]

E M P I R E _ R I S I N G
New Imperial Order​

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T H E _ R E D O U B T
GLOVES OF METAL

The Iron Sun continues to rise, our empire shining its rays onto other systems as we expand the promises of Imperialism to the frontiers at our borders.

Our ambitions have brought us towards the outskirts of Chiss Space, the Redoubt.

The Chiss are a unique people, widely respected for their capabilities from many different factions. However, the respect they have earned from outsiders is not reciprocated back. They are proud of their heritage and enjoy solitude from the rest of Galactic affairs, even after being discovered many years ago. Their pride matches their military might, and that same pride abhors living among others outside their own kind.

Unsurprisingly, the Chiss have expressed disdain onto the New Imperials, even dismissing our achievements against the Sith in our war. Imperial Warlord Zovesa has counseled us on how to approach the Chiss, advising us that her people are not one too keen to bend the knee. They would rather play with fire rather than accept our olive branch and be under the Iron Sun.

And so let our will of iron defiance retort back.

OBJECTIVE I //: PIERCING THE HEAVENS

It is an understatement that the Chiss have one of the most brilliant tacticians in the Galaxy, capable of winning battles while outnumbered and suffering minor casualties. It is a tug of war between us and the Chiss Expansionary Defense Fleet, neither our ingenious admirals and the opponent gaining an advantage over the other; however, time will tell which fleet will surrender to the intense strain that has burden on each side.

Coordination between our admirals and pilots is critical if we are to break through the defenses of the enemy. Find a hole within the CADF's defenses and exploit it before the same is done to us.

OBJECTIVE II //: IMPREGNABLE

Our ground forces have the same luck as our navy above the Redoubt's skies.

Sh*t luck.

It's even a surprise ground units were able to touch down with boots on the ground, although it was a toll to pay with a debt that continues to grow by the minute as battalions have suffered from the precise calculations of the Chiss commanders on foot.

It is nothing but a bloodbath, every push we make there is a flank that is exploited by the enemy.

How will you fight your way through survival in this unforgiving warzone?

OBJECTIVE //: BYOO

Whatever gets you to write, chief.

// SETPIECES //:
> THE REDOUBT

 

[Imperial Warlord Zovesa]

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Location: Aboard Imperial Warlord Zovesa's Command Battlecruiser "the Basilieus"
Accompaniment: Zovesa Expidetionary Chiss-Space Task Force Fleet | Codenamed: "Azurian-One"
Mission Objective [4]:
++Primary: Make contact with Redoubt Chiss Command | Negotiate capitulation or Destroy Command
++Secondary: Discuss Azurian-One's Establishment of a Combine Foothold with Irveric Tavlar

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Tap. Tap. Tap. The black-gloved index finger patted its leather armored digit against the hand it rested on top of, perched on the white military trousered uniform of Imperial Warlord Zovesa's lap. Tap. Tap. Tap. The hits counted the seconds, then the minutes, then the moments that passed by while the blue whirl of hyperspace played its kaleidoscopic storms across the massive panoramic screen of the Basileus's Overbridge. Sat in the central command chair, Zovesa's red beaming Chiss eyes were awash in the blues and whites that flickered from hyperspace.​

Beside here were islands of command panels, sensor array modules, and busy bridge staff officers. Sat beside her chair was a massive beast that snored hissing guttural growls. Named "Banshee" by the Chiss Imperial Warlord, the hulking Voxyn Hound was curled up against Zovesa's feet with its long tail coiling around her leg and its head laid at her black booted feet. Tap. Tap. Tap. The time drew near. The time was close to when she would finally return to Chiss Space and enact vengeance and conquest upon the old Houses that had destroyed hers - causing her family to flee in bondage to the Sith Empire.​

Chirp. Beep! Zovesa's eyes flicked to the side and eyed the command island flanking her seat. The Navigations Officer pressed some buttons and tapped commands into a module panel before looking towards the Imperial Warlords. "My Lady, we have reached the Redoubt. Our exit will drop out in 5...4...3...2...1." The Basilieus burst from hyperspace and, rapidly, the bloated visage of the fortress Chiss world of Redoubt bloomed in the panoramic view. Surrounding it was an armada of New Imperial Star Destroyers and Cruisers. Zovesa nodded quietly.​

A final - Tap. Zovesa pressed her hands down onto the armrests, the thump awaking Banshee who yawned and then hissed with its long forked tongue. Zovesa stood up and turned around from her seat to leave the Over Bridge. Passing by the Comms-Officer at a wall-mounted unit, she throughout a hand to follow her command, "Contact the Imperator...We must discuss the Combine's intentions with this world before the Legions do their work."

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[Kanto]

"Just another few hours and we can go home, eh?", Irizi'ro'kanto said, patting the enlisted crewman on the back. He and his crew had been assigned to the further stretches of Chiss space for routine patrol and were on the last stretch before they could return to Csilla for a week of much needed shore leave. Spirits were high.

"Coming out of hyperspace now, commander."

As the ship reverted to real space, the bridge went alight with all sorts of alarms.

"Multiple contacts!", the radar technician called out.

The view from the bridge was all the more distressing. The New Imperial Order had arrived, and it had arrived in force. More ships than he could count appeared to be staging for a blockade of the system, and shortly after their arrival, a behemoth of a star destroyer emerged from hyperspace and slowly floated towards the Redoubt.

They were outnumbered. They were outgunned. The Redoubt was a stronghold to be sure, but its effectiveness as one was limited to the adequacy of the preparation its denizens. The NIO was close, but as far as Irizi'ro'kanto knew, there hadn't been any expectation of a siege. Likely as the Defense Hierarchy Council surmised, Irizi'ro'kanto too would have guessed that the NIO had more pressing matters at hand, such as their ongoing war with the Sith Empire, and that they wouldn't have turned their sights to the galactic northwest so soon.

"There is nothing we can do. Prepare for jump to hyperspace - we must warn Csilla."

"Charging now, sir!"

They could only hope the New Imperial armada wouldn't turn their sights on their ship as quickly as they had the Redoubt.

Imperial Warlord Zovesa ​

 

[FN-999]

LOCATION: REDOUBT, PLANETARY SURFACE
SUPPORT: TBD | OPEN TO COOPERATION
HOSTILES: CHISS NPC/PC GROUND UNITS | OPEN TO ENGAGEMENT
EQUIPMENT (FN-999): In signature & Smartblaster Pistol

THE 454TH STORMTROOPER REGIMENT - PAX IMPERIALI

FN-999 had never hated the color blue more than he did today.
​

A wave of the wretched color was rushing down the rocky hills on which they battled, gunfire seemingly raining down from all directions. Every few seconds, a tank's cannon would sound and a large area of ground would be obliterated, vaporizing any poor soul caught in its radius. The attack had gone on for nearly an hour, with the Chiss defenders relentlessly pushing forwards against the regiment's uphill position. Yet compared to the two large barren stone peaks rising behind the Chiss formation, their incline was generously sloped. On one hand, the 454th would have had a much harder time damaging the Chiss lines if they had stayed in their elevated position. On the other hand, the 454th had a comparatively low position, one that could be easily assaulted with the momentum of a downhill charge. As a result, the regiment had been pinned down for the past half hour.

It had all started a half hour earlier, when the 454th was assigned to secure a city near the southeastern edge of one of the northern continents. Facing heavy anti-aircraft fire, the 454th's troop transports had dropped off the regiment about fifteen kilometers west of the city's outskirts in an area occupied by boulder-filled hills. Thanks to the roughness of the terrain, a majority of the regiment had to rely on its LRTT-1 fleet to traverse, resulting in only about half of the regiment's ranks being able to be transported at a time. As a result of this slowed pace, a similarly sized Chiss force had been given sufficient time to intercept the 454th about nine kilometers and twenty minutes into their advance, the vanguards of both regiments meeting in the hilly battlefield which both units now filled.

Presently, FN-999 stood behind a boulder twice his height and eight times his width, along with a large portable navigation computer that occasionally worked when Chiss electronic warfare devices temporarily exited their effective range. Currently, it presented a tactical display of most of the notable elements of the 454th along with the predicted elements of their Chiss counterparts. For the past ten minutes, a large Chiss armored formation had smashed into the 454th's center front line, prompting FN-999 to order a retreat of the two line companies behind each of the 454th's armor battalions. Aside from minimizing casualties among companies ill-suited for anti-armor operations, the retreat of the line companies also gave the newly promoted lieutenant legion commander a chance to overextend the Chiss line and perform an envelopment of their own center line. In order to keep the Chiss armor advancing, FN-999 had placed thee original 19th Assault Company directly in its path, relying on its missile launchers and grenades to keep the tanks engaged. Still, FN-999 was under a great deal of stress.

It was only recently that he had been promoted, and an unit of regiment size was unwieldy for him at best. It was a testament to the discipline of the Stormtrooper Corps that the regiment had been able to keep its front line unbroken, even as a clever and enduring foe struck at every possible angle. Furthermore, he estimated that the regiment had already suffered at least one hundred dead, a number that unsettled him even as he remembered that the 454th was thousands strong. Perhaps a part of him was still used to the smaller formations of the 19th and saw any casualty count higher than 10 as a sign of error. Ultimately, he knew that he would have to accept that the larger of a unit he commanded, the more casualties would be inflicted upon it while fighting larger opposing units.

Still, FN-999 was far from ready to embrace that part of greater command.

 

[Thale]

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CSD ALTAGAK​

SHIELDS (100%)​	HULL (100%)​
██████████​	██████████​

SPECIALIZED SYSTEMS: ■■ Cloaking Device​

IN THE REDOUBT CLUSTER
ABOARD CSD ALTAGAK

OBJECTIVE 4:
INTERCEDE (BYOO)​

The mysteries of the Third Sight (Force) were innumerable. There was no real method to control the visions, at least not in the way one might wish, as the future was constantly in flux and the mystical power showed what it would. There could be argument as to if the Third Sight had some higher degree of sentience, if it had a will of its own and desires for outcomes throughout its existence and reach, but such pursuits of philosophy were impractical and a waste of thought. Ultimately, the most one could do, insofar as serving as an Ozyly-esehembo, was to allow the visions to wash over one's mind and simply perceive them as they were presented. And so it was that Mitth'al'eruod found himself standing on the bridge of the Chiss Star Destroyer, the CSD Altagak, with his red eyes closed and his mind open to what future swam before his mind...

An Empire. Black and white cogs. Triangular, pale vessels, so similar to the Chiss' own. Chiss worlds, occupied, those same Star Destroyers visible in orbit. Numerous colonies, numerous cities and the Chiss, surrounded by soldiers in armor. Csilla... a mystery, the place where the planet belonged showed nothing, less than nothing, an ill omen... a sign - a fate - of things to come? Or simply a potential future that could be avoided? The galaxy shifted, whirled, as perspective changed and millions of parsecs were witnessed from afar. The planets began to be consumed, as a gaping maw from the north-west of known space began to approach the Ascendancy--

With a slow exhale, Mitth'al'eruod's eyes opened, as he looked through the durasteel of the vessel bridge. Beyond, farther than the dock in which the Star Destroyer was resupplying, the young Chiss considered what he had seen. Before Mitth'al'eruod could begin to attempt to make sense of the visions, he was alerted by a nearby officer as to sector proximity alarms. It seemed the Third Sight had been slow to deliver the future, this time, and the young Captain sneered in spite of the mystical power.

"Status on resupply?" Mitth'al'eruod asked, as he turned and looked up at the taller Chiss female that was beside him. "Irrespective, end the resupply, we must launch and prepare... but for what, I do not know yet."

"Yessir," The officer nodded, before she turned on a heel and walked toward the lowered crew decks to give orders. "End resupply, complete launch checks, lock down all newly acquired equipment and provisions. We leave this dock as soon as possible!"

Affirmations sounded, as the efficient and disciplined Chiss crew began to work at their panels and command boards. There was a silence on the bridge, save for the odd spoken update or technological sounding, which showed the capabilities of the Altagak personnel. It took another fifteen minutes for the vessel to be prepared, and by that time, reports of what was beyond the Redoubt cloud were coming in. Sensor picket ships, which had been sent from the disruptive cloud, had scouted the outer edges of the cosmic entity - and the results were not ideal, not in the slightest.

"Begin moving toward delta-sixteenth vector, I want to approach the potential enemy force from above," Mitth'al'eruod said calmly, as he walked slowly with purpose toward the command chair he had installed on the bridge. It was surrounded by expensive focusing stones, which assisted in his Third Sight use, while also being connected to the Ozyly-esehembo navigation network. He could command and navigate from the same chair, as needed. "For now, keep the cloaking device disengaged... we will make them aware of us, in order to determine a response, based on how they react."

Mitth'al'eruod turned to the communications officer.

"Prepare sensor data. I want the breakdown of every vessel in space outside the cloud, down to the design of the hydrobolts used for the hull. If they attempt to jam our sensors, we will revert to alternative communications, understood? Good. Let us proceed."

The Chiss Star Destroyer began to move away from the dock, as maneuvering thrusters turned the nine-hundred meter long vessel in space, and it started to engage ion engines. With the crew's knowledge of safe passes through the highly radioactive cloud around, it didn't take them long to make it through to the relative safety - as it were - of the space beyond the cosmic field. Along the way, shields and weapons were charged. And, once they broke through, the Altagak slowed and held position above the New Imperial fleet arrayed before them. Mitth'al'eruod sighed, as he looked over the vessels, his red eyes narrowed...

Very well. Let us see how they respond.

"Open system-wide communications," Mitth'al'eruod ordered, as he sat forward in his command chair and waited. When the frequencies - all of them - were opened, he spoke. "This is Captain Thale of the CSD Altagak, attempting communication with unannounced New Imperial vessels in this sector. You have entered Chiss space, under the purview of the Chiss Expansionary Defense Fleet, and are requested to provide your purpose in this sector..."

Meanwhile, the sensor and targeting crew were busy accumulating data. And once the information was packaged, they sent it through the Chiss communications relay network, as they pinged nearby arrays, and sent the data through to CEDF forces and Csilla...

"...I request to speak with your fleet commander, or a representative who may communicate in their stead, for your government."

From his command chair, Mitth'al'eruod reached over and activated the navigation panel. He poised his gloved fingers there, prepared, should things start badly. He suspected there was a reason that the Imperials were at the Redoubt, though how they knew about the secret location was presently beyond the young Captain, but he would determine that fact soon enough. Once, or if, communications were returned...

Imperial Warlord Zovesa | Julius Haskler

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[Julius Haskler]

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LOCATION : Aboard diplomatic Escolta-class Frigate, NIV Ultimus Imperialis
MISSION OBJECTIVE [4] : Make contact with Redoubt Chiss Command | Negotiate capitulation and create diplomatic bonds between each faction
TAG : Thale

​

The small diplomatic craft had exited hyperspace and now flew along Zovesa's forces. Julius's mission was quite simple : he had to limit the losses the New Imperial Order would face, and negotiate the surrender of the Chiss Expeditionnary Defense Fleet. If he managed to do that, he would also try to take advantage of the situation and improve the imperial situation. This place was a good one to start a mutually beneficial alliance, or even absorb the Chiss Ascendancy into the Empire.

From what he knew, Julius understood Chiss were not that much receptive to the tenets of Core culture. Their mystical attitude could be in advantage if they were allies, but not if he was to convince them to join his cause. In fact, there was maybe the biggest issue. The Anaxsi knew quite well the Chiss Ascendancy, but it had always been a tough piece, and there was no exception today.

The Frigate flew past the imperial warships, its red stripes clearly indicating it as a diplomatic vessel. This tradition was observed everywhere in the Galaxy, and Julius hoped the Chiss did the same. If it was not the case, the Ultimus Imperialis would be blasted in space, unable to defend itself against anything alse than fighters. As the Escolta came closer to the CEDF, a transmission was received, broadcasted widely.

This is Captain Thale of the CSD Altagak, attempting communication with unannounced New Imperial vessels in this sector. You have entered Chiss space, under the purview of the Chiss Expansionary Defense Fleet, and are requested to provide your purpose in this sector...

Julius was counting on that kind of reaction. He wanted to engage the negotiations as best as he could, and that particular sentence would be of great help. He chose his words, then proceeded to answer.

"This is Julius Haskler of the Imperial Diplomatic Corps. I request permission to board the Altagak in order to engage negotiations. Be assured of our will to cooperate."

This short sentence would reassure the Chiss, and the implicit order to stand by directed towards the imperial forces would buy them time to position themselves as best as possible. Hopefully, the ground forces would comply to the order too, and the negotiations would go smoothly. If they did not, however, they would provide the argument of superior military force in order to tip the negotiations and impress Captain Thale.

Counting on the boarding permission, Julius started to make his way to the shuttle, escorted by two anaxsi soldiers. When the Escolta would be at good range, the shuttle would land abaord the Altagak and the negotiations would begin. Julius hoped everything would go smoothly.

Who could tell ?

 

[Thale]

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CSD ALTAGAK​

SHIELDS (100%)​	HULL (100%)​
██████████​	██████████​

SPECIALIZED SYSTEMS: ■■ Cloaking Device​

IN THE REDOUBT CLUSTER
ABOARD CSD ALTAGAK

OBJECTIVE 4:
INTERCEDE (BYOO)​

"Response received from NIV Ultimus Imperialis, a diplomatic vessel, by Julius Haskler, Captain," One of the Communications Officers spoke suddenly, as he turned to face the command chair occupied by the Captain. "They are requesting boarding permission."

"Focus that transmission, put it through to my command chair," Mitth'al'eruod said simply, as he remained in the chair, gloved hand over the navigation console. And when the comm screen activated, the young Chiss glanced over and began to speak. "Diplomat Haskler, you have permission to board. Please power down any weapons and shield systems, and approach our docking bay. I will meet you on landing. I appreciate your candor, and the chance to discuss this situation."

A middle-aged female Chiss stood nearby, dressed in a simple dark robe, and looked toward the Captain as he stood from the command chair. Tis'isu'rigou, the assigned Caaregiver for the young Ozyly-esehembo, remained still as her glowing red eyes watched his movements.

"Remain on the bridge, Tis'isu'rigou," Mitth'al'eruod ordered, though he suspected the real reason she remained so compliant, was due to being in public, around CEDF subordinates under the teen's command. "I will meet this delegate and determine what the Imperials want. It may seem clearly evident, given the amassed fleet before us, but one should never presume without an attempt at finding the truth."

"As you say, Ozyly-esehembo, I will remain here." She replied cooly, though her face betrayed a faint micro-expression of annoyance.

"I have placed navigation coordinates into the system," The Captain said as he walked past and motioned to four Chiss Commandos in full armor and patterning who stood guard near the bridge entry. They moved to join him, and fell into step. With a glance back, the young Chiss added. "Should you receive my warning, microjump appropriately, Tis'isu'rigou."

Then, without another word, the Captain passed through the blast doors and started down the corridor of the vessel. He knew his second-in-command would immediately take over, without the need for affirmation, and instead focused on the task at hand - meeting with an Imperial delegate over the case of an armada presented before the Redoubt. It certainly had the potential to become a complicated situation, or at least more complicated than it already was, but Mitth'al'eruod was confident that he could get to the root of the circumstances beyond his vessel bridge.

"Sergeant, call for an additional two squadrons of soldiers to be situated outside the hangar bay, just in case. Have another two on standby."

The group continued toward the turbolift, which opened as they approached, then it began to descend as the Commando relayed the order...

Imperial Warlord Zovesa | Julius Haskler​

 

[Julius Haskler]

LOCATION : Aboard diplomatic Escolta-class Corvette, NIV Ultimus Imperialis
MISSION OBJECTIVE [4] : Make contact with Redoubt Chiss Command | Negotiate capitulation and create diplomatic bonds between each faction
TAG : Thale

​

Diplomat Haskler, you have permission to board. Please power down any weapons and shield systems, and approach our docking bay. I will meet you on landing. I appreciate your candor, and the chance to discuss this situation.

As the Frigate drifted slowly towards the Chiss vessels, Julius contacted the rest of the imperial forces. He wanted a detailed report of any engagement, as it would be a powerful argument during the negotiations. If the ground forces pulled off the Chiss defence force, then Julius would have the advantage. Otherwise, the diplomats would have to win on pure talent, and Julius felt unsure about winning against a Chiss. He knew not much of their habits and manner of speech to determine if he had the upper hand or not.

Obeying the order, the Ultimus Imperialis deactivated its rare weapons, and redirected all power to the engines, which would be needed to flee if needed. The frigate stopped, then Julius's shuttle took off, before flying towards the Altagak. The Escolta would remain there until the end of the negotiations, waiting for the return of its master. It could have flown back to Zovesa's fleet, but Julius estimated it was more explicit to the Chiss he wanted to negotiate if his vessel was in their range of fire, at their mercy.

​

The shuttle landed in hangar. It was a simple, pale grey, craft, and the ramp lowered in an hydraulic hiss. Few seconds after the ramp was completely opened, two TodHusars in parade uniform exited the shuttle, immediately followed by an old and tall man. The two anaxsi soldiers walked to the Chiss, then Julius walked past them, and bowed to the Chiss officer in a complicated salute. The typical anaxsi formal greeting stance was always a bit unsettling to strangers, but Haskler stuck to traditions that made his pride.

A parade uniform typically worn by the TodHusars​

"Captain, it is a pleasure to meet such a noble envoy of your proud species and state. May I present myself ? I am Julius, heir to House Haskler of Anaxes, and representative of the Imperial Diplomatic Corps. Hence, I embody the New Imperial Order for the duration of our negotiations." Julius stopped there, the formal introduction now over. However, he chose to add a more personnal sentence, a small twist to the official imperial etiquette. "I wholeheartedly hope our talks will be fruitful, and that the Chiss Ascendancy and New Imperial Order will settle on an agreement, Captain. It is in our mutual interest to find a pleasant outcome in this diplomatic affair. Be assured of my will to find a mutually beneficial treaty between our two factions."

A wave of the hand, and the TodHusars eased, then left Julius with his interlocutor. It was vital to make the Chiss comfortable, and nothing was more easy for this than simply being a defenceless guest. The diplomatic traditions across the galaxy ensured each ambassador would remain unharmed, or very grave consequences would occur for the harming party. In the case of the New Imperial Order, it would simply mean total war, destruction of the enemy culture, and sterilization and enslavement of the other faction. This implicit threat would dissuade the Chiss to try anything, and the same would apply to Julius : every diplomat was strictly equal to the other.

"Alright Captain, I follow you."

 

[Thale]

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CSD ALTAGAK​

SHIELDS (100%)​	HULL (100%)​
██████████​	██████████​

SPECIALIZED SYSTEMS: ■■ Cloaking Device​

IN THE REDOUBT CLUSTER
ABOARD CSD ALTAGAK

OBJECTIVE 4:
INTERCEDE (BYOO)​

The traversal to the hangar bay didn't take long, it was a well-remembered route, and before the arrival of the shuttle Mitth'al'eruod stepped through the heavy blast doors from a corridor into the open are beyond. He was greeted with a clean, well-maintained hangar, with a row of Chiss starfighters along one side, on racking for maximum stacking potential. The vessels were distorted by internal shielding, hazy to look at, while the crew of the hangar moved toward the exit. Beside the short Chiss, two of the Chiss Commandos remained at ready positions, alert in their helmeted gear with weapons slung at their sides. Mitth'al'eruod doubted he would need them, truly, but it was always better to have precautions in place.

A few moments later, the diplomat shuttle pierced the outer hangar shielding, before it glided in slowly and landed with a thump of struts and a hiss of lowering rampway. It didn't take long before two guard emerged from within, dressed in an elaborate assortment of finery that was perhaps ceremonial, and then were followed by a tall elderly humanoid. He appeared human.

They all did.

Mitth'al'eruod remained still and silent, as he watched the elderly human approach. He then performed an equally elaborate flourish, which ended in something of a salute. The Chiss watched the man's movements, as he immediately recognized that Diplomat Haskler had already played his first card - his movement belied his real physical dexterity, which was not indicative of his age. This was a man who could move, and likely react, as someone younger than he appeared. He also likely used his elderly and gentlemanly demeanor as a means to put those he conversed with at ease.

The young Captain smiled, as the older human introduced himself and offered greeting. It was very impressive, Julius Haskler of Anaxes presented confidence, humility, formality and respect. He also revealed the truth of the matter, and again, played his second card. Negotiations. So the Imperials were, certainly, poised for hostilities. That would most definitely steer the conversation to come, as Mitth'al'eruod remained still, with his hands at the small of his back and his neat Captain's uniform impeccable. The introduction continued, with a lot of pleasantries offered, mutual interest, diplomatic affair, mutually beneficial, and the like.

"Diplomat Julius Haskler, of Anaxes, heir to House Haskler and representative of the Imperial Diplomatic Corps," The considerably shorter, and younger, Chiss said crisply in Galactic Basic. He looked all of thirteen or fourteen. The Captain bowed, as he reached one hand to his front and pressed the Chiss Ascendancy button on his chest. "Greetings. I am Captain Thale. You are welcome aboard my vessel."

Haskler dismissed his two extravagant guards, to which Mitth'al'eruod did the same. The Chiss Commandos backed away to stand at the main blast doors to the hangar. That left the pair alone, in the middle of the hangar, regarding the other. Mitth'al'eruod lowered his hand, as he turned and motioned toward a distant small door to the side of the hangar bay. It was not the main blast doors that led into the starship, but rather a smaller room that housed a comfortable conference area. A design of the Chiss, who didn't like to share their technology, so unknown individuals would not walk through their vessels.

"Tell me, Diplomat Haskler, was your journey pleasant?" Mitth'al'eruod asked, as he began to walk toward the smaller conference door. "Were there any nuisances or hindrances?"

The Chiss stepped through the doorway and remained near it, so as to keep it open for Haskler. Once the elderly man was through, Mitth'al'eruod remained there for a moment longer, before he motioned to the arrayed chairs around a singular round table. He watched to see where the elderly man sat, to observe and have him reveal his fourth card - as the third had been shown, without the human being aware.

"Please. Sit where you may."

Mitth'al'eruod would wait for Haskler to be seated, before he moved to his own seat opposite him and sat...

"So, representative Haskler, tell me of Anaxes... you are the heir to your House, do you love your family? Your planet?"

Imperial Warlord Zovesa | Julius Haskler​

 

[Julius Haskler]

LOCATION : Aboard diplomatic Escolta-class Corvette, NIV Ultimus Imperialis
MISSION OBJECTIVE [4] : Make contact with Redoubt Chiss Command | Negotiate capitulation and create diplomatic bonds between each faction
TAG : Thale

​

Haskler watched the Chiss guards leave, then followed the young officer to the conference room. He was impressed by the Chiss technology and its usage. He already knew a bit of the MASER weaponry, but most of the Chiss military was a mystery to him. Apart from the Nsiss Clawcraft and the Hand Imperial armies, it was a new world. As such, Julius admired the details and decorations of the vessel aboard which he was, impressed by the knowledge and prowesses of the Chiss.

"Tell me, Diplomat Haskler, was your journey pleasant ? Were there any nuisances or hindrances ?"

There it was. The start of the negotiations, opened by an innocent question. Julius knew perfectly well it would be a tense gymnastic. He had prepared his cards, but he was betting Thale had more. The asymetrical informations were in the Chiss's favor, but it was handlable. The heir decided to be careful and gave a neutral answer.

"The journey was calm, Captain. Surely, being escorted by the most powerful navy of the galaxy casts aside the fear of pirates and space battle. We did not encounter any other nuisance. My ship is relatively new, and his systems are operationnal. In fact, travelling under the protection of the New Imperial Order is one of the most secure way to get from one point to the other in these days."

The pair continued to walk until Thale opened a door, letting Julius walk into a conference room. The elder entered, waiting for the Chiss to walk behind him. He admired the room, appreciating
the sobre look and the simple chairs. When he understood the alien officer was waiting for Haskler to sit, the heir walked across the room, hesitating on the chair to choose. It could reveal a lot of Julius's inner thoughts and intentions.

"Please. Sit where you may."

The old diplomat ultimately settled on one of the chairs located slightly slantwise from the door, and sat delicately. That chair was perfect because it allowed Julius to have a look of the whole room, while his interlocutor could avoid sitting the back on the door. It would indicate to the Chiss that the imperial diplomat was willing to avoid duplicitous talks, and that the young officer would be safe from any dangers coming on his back. Julius remained in control of the situation because he had the wall on his back, but Thale had the escape option well in hand thaks to the nearby door.

"So, representative Haskler, tell me of Anaxes... you are the heir to your House, do you love your family ? Your planet ?"

Julius was not expecting an intimate talk to introduce the negotiations, but he wasn't destabilised at all. In fact, it would allow him to bring the dialogue where he wanted it. By speaking of Anaxes, Thale wanted to lower Julius's guard, but it would only bring the perfect subject on the field of negotiations : annexing the Chiss Ascendancy.

"Dear Captain, Anaxes is indeed a beautiful planet. It used to be one of the most powerful planets of the Core, but now that the Imperial rule is over, the reigning elite feast upon the poor, their bathing decadency weakening the will of our people. Truly, Anaxes is no sighseeing today. But the House I fight for has rejected this debauched rule, and seeks to bring Anaxes back in the Imperial rule and fold. It is a fight of centuries, but no sacrifices are too heavy to liberate our people." Julius stopped there for a moment, then spoke again quielty. "The imperial cause is one worthy of dying for, Captain. It brings order and justice across the worlds. Tell me, my young friend, is there a cause you would die for ?"

 

[Sivan]

Objective 4 -BYOO/Intercede
In the Redoubt Cluster
Aboard the CSD Altagak

​

The CSD Altagak was in the middle of performing a standard resupply in the Redoubt Cluster when proximity alarms alerted the Chiss Star Destroyer that there were incoming contacts. Captain Thale immediately stopped the resupply and moved the ship to a better position to receive the Outsiders for better or worse as well as put the crew on tactical alert.

The 201st, 203rd, and the 205th Fighter Squadrons made up the Rinsi or more so "Saber Wing". The elite Chiss squadrons were alerted to report to their fighters. Commander Hess'iva'nuruodo and her fellow pilots dressed in their black flight suits with red piping indicative of those Chiss following the ideals of the Red Flame entered their Clawcraft in a purposeful and orderly fashion. The blue-skinned near-humans of the Unknown Region were nothing but efficient. There was no idle chit-chat or bantering either. It was all business.

As soon as the top hatch on the spherical-shaped cockpit of Hessi'va'nuruodo's Nssis-class Clawcraft was secured by the tech atop the rack platform, SS 201-1 as was her official flight designation began the preflight checklist. When that was completed, the Wing Commander called for the other squadron leaders to check-in with all reporting green to go.

:: Flight Control, this is Saber Leader. Saber Wing is standing by ready to launch on orders. ::

While waiting in the cockpit of her Clawcraft that was protected behind the hangar's internal shielding when the Chiss starfighters were attached to the racks and not in launch or retrieve sequence mode, "Sivan's" red gaze watched as keenly as she could through the blurred field a foreign shuttle come through the MAG-CON and land in the hangar bay.

Was that a New Imperial Order emblem on the hull? Intriguing...

What appeared to be a diplomatic entourage of a rather flamboyant nature deplaned from the transport, then the elder leader of the group was greeted by the Atlagak's young Chiss captain. Mitth'al'eruod ushered him alone into the small conference room off the main hangar. Time would only tell the outcome of such negotiations and the fate of things to come. The Chiss would be ready for any contingencies nonetheless.

_________

Julius Haskler | Imperial Warlord Zovesa | Kanto​

 

[Silas Sunfyre]

Redoubt Planetoid
OBJ: Support 454th Regiment
173rd Legion | Taka Group
FN-999

Chiss.

Silas had been more than familiar with the species. Most of them were cold and calculating, a testament to their fortitude and tactical genius. He was young, younger than most at his current station, and yet it was all because of the Chiss that had taken him in. Studies, training, all were to be credited to the ability of a blue skinned Quartermaster. He was the reason he had excelled in the New Imperial's officer school, and had arrived where he had. Aside from combat ability that Silas had an inherent knack for.

Battle with an organized Chiss force was not a test Silas had wanted.

Through the Force, he touched the minds of his Taka Group. Together, the use of the Force saw their minds linked. Of a singular mind, they operated in true cohesion. And those closest to him saw glimpses of what others saw, of what he saw.

The dropship rumbled, they closed in on the western flank of the 454th Regiment.

As was typical, the Myrmidons would fall upon the lines of their enemies from the heavens.

Blades, hammers, blasters.

Their jetpacks activated as they came down, the orchestra of their arrival almost deafening as they landed in the midst of the advancing Chiss. From right to left Silas' blade carved through the lightly armoured Chiss. Stabbing forwards, his vibrosword plunged through the chest of a charging Chiss with their own blade out. The difference in stature was instantly noted, and he took advantage. Sinking the blade far enough in so that the pommel pressed to their clavicle. He saw the light leave their wholly crimson orbs, just as a rocket flew over his shoulder towards a repulsor lift tank shelling his allies.

A detonation erupted along the lines, throwing bodies to the ground as dozens of the Myrmidon, bunny hopped across the western grounds of the battle. Jetpacks activating sporadically as they flew through the Chiss formation wreaking havoc.

 

[Albrecht F. Herlock]

In the hyperspace, near the Redoubt Cluster, on board of the escort frigate Pride of Anaxes


"Captain, we're almost in the Redoubt Cluster. Getting out of hyperspace in 2 minutes" said the Navigation Officer.

"Roger that" replied Captain Herlock. "Communication Officer, broadcast the action station through all the ship when we're out. Tactical Officer, I want the starfighters ready to launch".

"Aye sir" said the two officers.

"Out of hyperspace...now!" announced Navigation Officer. As he pulled a lever on his left, the blue sky of the hyperspace let the place to the stars, meaning the ship was returning to normal speed.

"This is not a drill, this not a drill. General quarters, general quarters, all hands man your battlestations" declared the Comms Officer through the ship's broadcast system.

"Captain, the fighters are ready to launch" said the Tactical Officer.

"Permission granted to launch the starfighters. I want the Hayabusas in an escort formation around the Pride of Anaxes and the Rei-sens in recon mission" ordered the commanding officer.

The Pride of Anaxes was finally operationnal and deployed for combat after many months of building and tests. This spaceship, with an interesting design was specially built for the House Haskler's naval forces. Despite her looks, she was a strong escort frigate, ready to deal with any hostile ships.

One by one, the Hayabusas were launched from the bottom hatch of the ship while the Rei-sens were launched from the catapults on the aft deck.

"All fighters are launched Captain" said the Tactical Officer.

"Alright, I want all guns ready to fire if any hostile ship is engaging us"

"Roger Captain".

With all of her guns ready, the Pride of Anaxes started patrolling in the seas of the Redoubt Cluster, waiting for the orders from the head of the House Haskler or from the officer in charge of the Imperial Fleet.

 

[Thale]

​

CSD ALTAGAK​

SHIELDS (100%)​	HULL (100%)​
██████████​	██████████​

SPECIALIZED SYSTEMS: ■■ Cloaking Device​

IN THE REDOUBT CLUSTER
ABOARD CSD ALTAGAK

OBJECTIVE 4:
INTERCEDE (BYOO)​

The young Captain listened, as representative Haskler began to surmise his travels into the sector. There was the usual pomp, the overstatement of ostentatiously flaunting the capabilities of the Imperials, it was not unexpected. Still, there remained the facts amid the proverbial sales pitch, as it were, that Mitth'al'eruod could see clearly between the lines. The state of the vessel, the fleet entourage, the lack of pirate or battle along the way, and the direct approach to the Redoubt itself... yet, it all spoke of one thing; the third card:

"A question: whom is the Chiss that assists in your present fleet movements, representative?" The Captain asked simply. He eased back in the chair opposite Haskler. "By your own admission, you had no disruptions or outlying factors to interrupt or hinder your arrival to this, an otherwise hidden and largely kept secret location for the Chiss, so it stands to reasonable conclusion that you have someone - or someones - with knowledge of the Redoubt in your faction. I am curious to know whom, as they have used that knowledge to effectively bypass numerous Chiss defenses and warning systems, to arrive at the literal doorstep of this nebula."

And that degree of information revelation outside of the Ascendancy is gross betrayal to the culture and species.

Whether Haskler would say, remained to be seen. But if he wished to maintain honest and open negotiations, as claimed, keeping the truth would certainly skew the remainder of the discussions for the pair. However, Mitth'al'eruod had no problem if any names were revealed, as it would just be a matter of finding out the same information at a later date through additional hurdles. There also remained consideration on the positioning of the seating.

The fourth card.

It seemed representative Haskler wished to toe the line between confidence and uncertainty. Were he to feel completely in control, he might have moved opposite the door, to be at the rooms proverbial head of the table. Were he simply confident and not hiding any truth, he might have sat with his back to the door, to show his willingness to trust whom he spoke with. But no, instead Haskler opted to sit with an eye on the exit, a sign of distrust, but with his back to the wall, to show he was unwilling to back down. Or so it seemed. Who was to say, truly, with humans? They were often overly emotional and prone to fits of hysteria when things didn't go their way...

Ah, he speaks of Anaxes, Captain Thale thought to himself, as he put on a smile. This should be quite revealing.

As Haskler spoke, the young Chiss observed him in totality. His facial movement, his eye shifts, how often he blinked, whether certain words indicated micro-expressions, if he sat in pride, or reclined in shame. It was all taken in, every little facet, especially those mannerisms that were impossible to control on a neurological level by any sentient. Mitth'al'eruod had them, too. Still, it seemed Anaxes had been split from the Imperials, much to the diplomat's chagrin, and he - and his - sought to see it returned to a state of Imperial glory as it were. The information also spoke of a dwindling in status quo, which Mitth'al'eruod recognized in a lot of species and cultures, so the fat becoming fatter was of no surprise for the planet in question. However, the final revelation was... intriguing.

"Is there a cause I would die for?" Mitth'al'eruod repeated the question, as he leaned back in the chair, which was larger for him due to his youthful size, and appeared to ponder a moment. A finger played at his chin, as he half-closed his red eyes. "No. No, I do not believe there is, representative Haskler. But likely not for the reasons you, or humans, believe. My unwillingness to die for a cause does not come from an unwillingness to dedicate to a cause. Rather, it is my opinion that for one to die for a cause, is for that same one to have made a grave error in judgment and implementation of that pursuit.

"I feel that, if dying is your single greatest contribution to your want of change, one has to question your suitability in leadership. Why? Because clearly your capacity for enacting change relies on others feeling that martyrdom is something to be seen as good or expected... and that leads to dangerous idealism and extremist behavior, which at the best of times can be said as... risky, if not unreliable and detrimental."

Mitth'al'eruod smiled. It was not wholly pleasant.

"No, representative, I feel martyrdom is both dangerous and subversive to a that end. For if your leadership dies in the process of enacting change, the spectators and those dedicant, will instead find themselves bereft of what they perceive as the true forerunners and torch bearers. And any leadership that comes from that sacrifice, but isn't willing to be so drastic in resolve, will be seen as inferior and ultimately weaker in comparison. As not all view martyrs as heroes or ideals to live by; in fact, I would be so bold as to say that a vast majority would avoid taking such finite actions, in most circumstances, save the most extreme dedicates.

"And there, representative, is the real peril to dying for change: your cause is already set on a foundation of perceived flawed deficiency."

The young Chiss sat forward in the large chair, as he propped his elbows onto the table. A small item on his belt beeped - "A moment, please." - to which Mitth'al'eruod reached down and activated the device near his ear. Some words were said in the Chiss' native tongue, low in volume, likely not able to be heard from across the table. There was no visible reaction from the Captain, at least not beyond his red eyes staring at his guest, before he replied. "I understand, thank you."

Mitth'al'eruod put the device back onto his belt, then cleared his throat. An update from the bridge once again skewed the conversation, as no doubt the diplomat from across the table would become aware - likely from his own communication network, in due time. Still, there was the opportunity to extrapolate the man's reaction by simply bringing the news to his awareness.

"Representative, your military forces have started to attack Chiss defensive emplacements on one of the planets inside the Redoubt. And there are also reports of a vessel within the cloud nebula, with a launched compliment of starfighters, prepared to engage," Mitth'al'eruod said simply, with a neutral expression, though his red eyes didn't blink or shift from the other man's face. Perhaps an indication for him to recognize as concerning. "Am I to assume your claim for negotiation are, in fact, intended as terms of surrender for the Chiss populace who are situated and stationed at this location? Were we not to engage one another under peaceful circumstances? And yet, your stormtroopers attack the Chiss, as we sit at this table, apparently doing little other than wasting the oxygen recyclers in this room..."

The young Chiss lowered his brow, as his glowing red eyes narrowed. His tone of voice shifted, more serious than previously used, though still twinged with youthfulness...

"Am I to believe our talks are concluded, representative Haskler? Is it to be war between our people? Perhaps you had best contact your superiors and determine exactly how we proceed from here. Additionally, your people seem to have a very low concern for your well-being and efforts, as they have now voided the diplomatic traditions recognized by most civil species... this is quite the predicament. Perhaps your claims for speaking with the voice for the Imperials are not as accurate as stated?"

Imperial Warlord Zovesa | Julius Haskler | Sivan | Silas Sunfyre | Albrecht F. Herlock​

 

[Julius Haskler]

LOCATION : Aboard diplomatic Escolta-class Corvette, NIV Ultimus Imperialis
MISSION OBJECTIVE [4] : Make contact with Redoubt Chiss Command | Negotiate capitulation and create diplomatic bonds between each faction
TAG : Thale

​

Julius listened warily, as the young Chiss spoke. While he was a bit surprised to learn no cause was worth dying for, he put aside the idea of the Chiss being a bunch of cowards. Instead, he tried to keep a polite and neutral face while Thale continued to expose his views on death. He was thinking as fast as possible, and tried to find a mean to start up the conversation. However, there was no need for it as he realised seconds later.

A question: whom is the Chiss that assists in your present fleet movements, representative?

Julius thought carefully of his answer. As promised, he had to be honest and frank, however there was a measure of secret to keep : one could not reveal wholly his battle plan if one was to win said battle.

"I don't know, really, if I am allowed to divulgate such informations. I could be charged of treachery if I were to leak any sensitive information. However, I am inclined to think we, as diplomats, can have a measure of trust between us. I would not like to betray such trust, especially in front of you. The Chiss commander that helped us to come to the Redoubt goes by the name of Zovesa. I do not know her personnally, but this name might help you."

The Anaxsi didn't know how he had handled the situation with that vague answer. He hoped it could build further the trust between the two diplomats. The situation was rather unpleasant, and he felt the Chiss was both contempting and curious of his views on death. However, he had not the time to elaborate further. A small beep was heard in the room, and Thale spoke into what seemed to be a comlink.

A moment, please.

The old diplomat was not bothered by the interruption, as it allowed him to think more of his answer. However, the intensity of the red gaze unsettled him more and more as the Captain answered to his interlocutor. The situation was definitely getting more and more unpleasant. It was time to make a move, or the negotiations would shatter into pieces. Julius prepared a sentence, but could not speak up before the communication ended and Thale unleashed few words that annihilated the Anaxsi's hopes.

Representative, your military forces have started to attack Chiss defensive emplacements on one of the planets inside the Redoubt. And there are also reports of a vessel within the cloud nebula, with a launched compliment of starfighters, prepared to engage. Am I to assume your claim for negotiation are, in fact, intended as terms of surrender for the Chiss populace who are situated and stationed at this location? Were we not to engage one another under peaceful circumstances? And yet, your stormtroopers attack the Chiss, as we sit at this table, apparently doing little other than wasting the oxygen recyclers in this room...

Julius's neutral face changed quickly, replaced by an expression of shock, then shame, then anger. Finally, he managed to keep his composure and answered painfully.

"Captain... I do not have ordered these troops to attack the Chiss forces. As I am not the commander of the imperial forces, I have no authority over them other than the respect they can have for a diplomat. Be assured my intention was to negotiate peacefully with you, not to force you to accept an ignominious treaty. But you are right on one point : we are wasting oxygen. I'll get straight to the point." The old diplomat made a pause, well aware that the next words would considerably alter the negotiations.

"My intention is to broker a treaty with the Chiss Ascendancy. The details are the following : the New Imperial Order wish to bring the Chiss worlds to the imperial fold with a particular condition. As you may or may not know, the feudal structure of the New Imperial Order allows certain individuals to rule as Warlords over a sector of space, having more liberty to organise their territory. Such is the case, for instance, of the Presfbelt Command, ruled by the Admiral Regent Carlyle Rausgeber. This sector is under his special rule, and he organises, equips and leads the forces drawn from there as he wishes." Again, Julius took a pause, choosing his future words. There was the point where all would shatter.

"The Imperial Diplomatic Coprs has convinced the Sovereign Imperator to allow me to engage negotiations for future integration of the Chiss Ascendancy into the Imperial territory. The Chiss will be placed under the authority of a Warlord of their choice, which will rule over the actual territory of the Chiss Ascendancy : all the planets comprised between Noris, Sharb, Cormit, Sarvchi, Copero, Csaus, Rhigar, Oyokal, Kinoss, Thearterra and Naporar."

Julius tried to analyse the face of his interlocutor, although the inexpressive face of the young Chiss would be especially hard to read. The gamble was desperate, futile, even, but the Anaxsi followed orders. Order was given to create a Chiss protectorate, a semi-autonomous state in the state, and he had followed orders. He knew perfectly well the Captain couldn't decide to accept the treaty, but it was a good way to start the negotiation campaign, which would be long and arduous. Having put himself in that dangerous situation, he simply hoped the Chiss's ire of losing the Redoubt wouldn't be too much of an obstacle for the negotiations. If they were wise, they knew war against the Empire would lead to the utter destruction of their government, and the integration would be much more painful. They had to do a choice.

"This is unprecedented in the history of the New Imperial Order, if I may add. Never a Warlord has had so much power. The Chiss Ascendancy would become a protectorate of the Empire, but it would retain its autonomy regarding internal matters. Ilum and the Redoubt will be placed under the joint authority of the New Imperial Order and of the Chiss Ascendancy, serving as junction worlds. Of course, the New Imperial Order wish to provide his expertise regarding financial and military matters to the Ascendancy, as a symbol of good will. I know you do not have the authority to accept such a treaty or not, my young friend, but I do hope you will contact your superiors and transmit us that proposition", Julius concluded simply, sitting again.

 

[Albrecht F. Herlock]

On board of the Pride of Anaxes, captain's diary


"Finally, the time has come. The Pride of Anaxes, first of her class is fully operationnal. We can leave the shipyard to go to actual conflict zone. As the ship jumps into hyperspace, I can feel the excitement of the crew. We're deployed to an area called the Redoubt Cluster. I heard it was located near (or in ?) the Chiss Ascendency territory. As the ship sails into hyperspace, we're conducting the last preparations of the frigate. Our orders are clear. We must get into the cluster and patrol the area, ready to fight if we must.

We're getting out of hyperspace. I can see the area called The Redoubt. Our sensors are detecting at least one ship. Is it an Imperial ship ? A Chiss one ? We don't know. The ship is ready to engage any hostile craft that would come towards us, with the Hayabusas on escort duty and the Rei-sens on intelligence gathering mission. As we start patrolling, we're waiting for further instructions. I heard that Julius, heir of the House Haskler, true ruler of Anaxes, is negociating with the Chiss on board of their capital ship. I hope everything goes well. If not, this ship and her crew are ready to fight to the last drop of blood, to the last drop of fuel for the glory of Anaxes."

 

[Thale]

​

CSD ALTAGAK​

SHIELDS (100%)​	HULL (100%)​
██████████​	██████████​

SPECIALIZED SYSTEMS: ■■ Cloaking Device​

IN THE REDOUBT CLUSTER
ABOARD CSD ALTAGAK

OBJECTIVE 4:
INTERCEDE (BYOO)​

Mitth'al'eruod eased back in the large chair, his youthful face one of interest, as he listened to the representative from the New Imperial Order speak. It seemed there was some truth to his claims of not having ordered the stormtroopers to begin the attack, so that had earned Haskler the benefit of the doubt, and the chance to express the real reasons he had sought the meeting. At least they were both being forthright, as pretense due to the assault was put to one side, and the proverbial meat of the matter was brought up.

So, irrespective, the Imperials seek to claim Chiss Space. There is no alternative, it is either with them under a boot or against them under fire. They speak out one side of their mouth, but whisper from the other... typical humans. Disgusting species.

The Captain smiled, as Haskler began to outline the treaty agreement. It sounded like a perfectly comfortable and decently sized leash, with which to control the Chiss and keep them under heel. The notion of a singular Warlord who would preside over all of Chiss Space, while novel and generous as the representative put it, still went against every fundamental basis of the Chiss. Their people did not function under a single leader, nor did they have such a expansionist view, beyond moving into sections of space to better secure the chaos beyond Chiss influence; no, it seemed that rampant grabs for planets, for the sake of owning them, was a very human trait.

"I believe my ancestor, Grand Admiral Thrawn, of whom you may be familiar, said it best diplomat Haskler:

'The Chiss do not simply accept alien concepts without careful consideration. We certainly do not submit to domination. By anyone.'

So, believe me when I say, those views have persisted for centuries within Chiss culture and society."

Mitth'al'eruod stood from the over-large chair, his smaller frame barely filling it, as he motioned toward the door. He stood straight, his uniform still impeccable, as he waited for the diplomat to stand before the Chiss spoke.

"Thank you for the meeting, representative. You are correct, in that I cannot act within the authority to accept this supposed treaty," Mitth'al'eruod's smile lessened. "Which is fortunate for you. As I would not permit you to leave, having thrown such an outrageous attempt at an agreement in my face, which threatens our very way of living... but, I digress, I am but a Captain in the CDF, and will be a messenger in this instance. I will take your terms to the Chiss leadership, and they will determine how to proceed."

The young Captain stepped closer to the door, as it opened automatically.

"Instead, thank you for your time, please board your vessel and enjoy the safety of Chiss Space that existed for generations before your Imperial fleet appeared to disturb the status quo. The Ascendancy will most certainly be in response, in due time... farewell, representative Haskler."

Mitth'al'eruod waited for the man to board the shuttle, then made a motion. The two invisible Chiss Commandos, of the four who had accompanied the Captain to the hangar bay, deactivated their cloaking and stood in the advanced armor and weaponry in hand. There had been a reason that Mitth'al'eruod had stood beside the door for a period of time, while Haskler had decided on a seat - he likely thought it displayed some kind of position of diplomacy... when in fact it had been to allow the Commandos into the room.

"We return to the bridge, then we take this offer to the Defense Hierarchy Council. They will determine how the Ascendancy responds to this incursion into our space..." Mitth'al'eruod activated his questis communicator, as he contacted the bridge. "Have all personnel begin data-wipe and vital system destruction. Leave nothing save scorched dust for the Imperials to lay claim to. Also, contact the CDF to have the Redoubt system removed from permitted Chiss travel beacons, this system is on lock-down until this situation with the Imperials has been dealt with."

I also have what I truly wanted. The name of the Chiss who works against the Ascendancy and seems content to share our secrets with the Imperials.

The Captain sneered, as he began to walk toward the hangar bay doors. The other pair of Commandos, near the hangar exit, were in positions to react as needed to possible rash action by Haskler and his entourage. And presuming the diplomat flew from the vessel with no complications - at the risk of being shot - the Altagak would make the jump to hyperspace, headed toward Csilla to deliver the terms the Imperials sought...

Imperial Warlord Zovesa | Julius Haskler | Sivan | Silas Sunfyre | Albrecht F. Herlock​

 

[Julius Haskler]

LOCATION : Aboard diplomatic Escolta-class Corvette, NIV Ultimus Imperialis
MISSION OBJECTIVE [4] : Make contact with Redoubt Chiss Command | Negotiate capitulation and create diplomatic bonds between each faction
TAG : Thale | Imperial Warlord Zovesa | Albrecht F. Herlock | Irveric Tavlar

​

The Chiss do not simply accept alien concepts without careful consideration. We certainly do not submit to domination. By anyone.​

​

The shatterpoint. Julius was waiting for it. He had sensed the Chiss frown as he explained the offer that was made to the Chiss. By experience, the diplomat knew the alien had made his mind. As a Captain of his own ship, he would refuse the leash the Imperials presented him. It was a large and generous leash, but a leash still. It was quite normal to see a young, ineperienced officer refuse it. But the elder would consider the might of the New Imperial Order, and see what happened to the Redoubt.

No one would dare oppose the might of the New Imperial Order. After the victorious campaigns in the Braxant Run and in the Stygian Caldera, the Sith Empire was crumbling. With the help of the Galactic Alliance, the Imperials had crushed the resistance of the Sith, even when facing setbacks such as Dantooine or Generis. That was what the Empire was able to do. The Chiss Ascendancy could face the same fate if they opposed a fierce resistance.

Thank you for the meeting, representative. You are correct, in that I cannot act within the authority to accept this supposed treaty. Which is fortunate for you. As I would not permit you to leave, having thrown such an outrageous attempt at an agreement in my face, which threatens our very way of living... but, I digress, I am but a Captain in the CDF, and will be a messenger in this instance. I will take your terms to the Chiss leadership, and they will determine how to proceed.​

Julius stiffened under the insult, and got up, swallowing the answer he would have given to any rival that would have dared to incur his wrath in such way. But he had to remain civil, and take advantage of the situation. Any insult or undesirable word would compromise the negotiations. To leave with dignity was the key of all. The negotiations would resume after he had discussed of his failure with the Sovereign Imperator, not before.

Julius followed his host to the hangar, where his guards and his shuttle were waiting. Stepping on the ramp, he said few words to his diplomatic interlocutor. It was no desperate attempt to leave a good impression, rather something his education had teached him.

"I hope we see again, Captain. It was a real pleasure to discuss with you, whatever contempt you can have for non-Chiss and for the Empire. I hope we can build a brighter future for our turmoiled galaxy."

The shuttle took off, leaving the hangar, and disappeared in the great blackness of the void.

Flying quickly from the Chiss fleet to the Escolta-class Frigate, the shuttle landed aboard the Ultimus Imperialis. The old diplomat walked towards the bridge, his attache joining him as he went. The Anaxsi had a frowned face, his frustration now almost visible. The TodHusars left Julius, and went to their barrack. The life on the vessel was normal. Entering the bridge, the elder watched through the observation pane as the Altagak left the system.

Julius hid his frown and called for his attache : "Get me a communication with the Imperator. I must report to him."

While his aide went to the holoterminal and tried to reach the capital, the diplomat went to the intercom. He called first Zovesa, the leader of the Imperial Fleet there. Now that the negotiations were over, it was time to wage war. Then, Julius would call for the anaxsi forces on orbit.

"Lord Zovesa, this is Julius Haskler of the Imperial Diplomatic Corps. The negotiations are over at the moment the Altagak leaves the system. You may attack when ready."

"Captain Herlock, this is Julius of House Haskler. The negotiations are over. Please proceed to engage the Chiss forces and capture their facilities. Blind destruction is not allowed. Ultimus Imperialis over."

Then Julius went back to the holoterminal. He made his frown face disappear and got ready to speak with the Sovereign Imperator of the New Imperial Order, Irveric Tavlar. The report was of utmost importance. He could not allow his frustration get in the way.

"Sovereign Imperator, Lord Tavlar. This is Julius of noble House Haskler. I am reporting to you the results of my negotiations with the Chiss forces of the Redoubt..."

 

[Albrecht F. Herlock]

On baord of Pride of Anaxes, on patrolling duty in the Redoubt Cluster

TAG: Thale | Imperial Warlord Zovesa | Irveric Tavlar | Julius Haskler

The seas of the Redoubt were terribly quiet. The Pride of Anaxes was patrolling, with her starfighters doing touch-and-go manoeuvers in order to replenish their fuel. The crew members who were on the bridge could see the Chiss fleet. They were nervous, ready to fight if needed. The captain was in his room to get some rest, giving the bridge to his commander in second.

"Captain, you're needed in the bridge" said a voice in the intercomm.

"Coming right now" replied Herlock.

As soon as he got ready, Herlock moved to the bridge. He wondered why he was called. Did they finally receive the orders they were waiting for ?

"Commanding officer on deck !" announced the Executive Officer when the captain entered the bridge.

"What's the situation out there ?" asked Herlock

"We detected a small craft taking off from a ship. It's identified as Julius Haskler's shuttle and is headed to the Ultimus Imperialis" replied the Operation Officer.

"Let's wait for further instructions"

"Aye sir!"

"Captain, we're receiving a transmission!" said the Comms Officer

"Put it through"

"Captain Herlock, this is Julius of House Haskler. The negotiations are over. Please proceed to engage the Chiss forces and capture their facilities. Blind destruction is not allowed. Ultimus Imperialis over."

"It will be done sir. Pride of Anaxes over"

Once the transmission was over, Herlock took a microphone on his operation panel and delivered a little speech to his crew :

"To all crew members, this is your captain speaking. We received notification from our Lord that the negociations with the Chiss Ascendency are over. We are ordered to engage the Chiss forces and take their facilities. We are going to carry out this mission with success.All hands man your battlestations ! For Anaxes !"

Soon the ship started to gain speed, retreived her fighters and loaded her guns,and missiles, charging toward the Chiss fleet. Each turret was targeting a ship. When the Chiss fleet came in range, the Pride of Anaxes opened fire, coming through the fleet with great manouvrability, with all of her gun firing.

"Once we've taken out the fleet, we'll get to the planet and support ground forces" said the commanding officer.

"Aye sir" replied the personnel on the bridge.

And so, started the battle for the Redoubt Cluster for the newly built Pride of Anaxes.

 

[Irveric Tavlar]

I M P E R A T O R
NEW IMPERIAL ORDER
THE REDOUBT
Imperial Warlord Zovesa | Julius Haskler

​

The Chiss. A species as enigmatic as they were proud. The Unknown Regions were hardly unknown by now. First Order, One Sith, Iron Empire and now, the New Imperial Order had all explored and colonized swathes of this territory. The Redoubt would be the New Imperial Order's gateway to this swathe of space. The Chiss, as guarded a people they were, could be an asset of upmost importance to the New Empire.

While Zovesa sought to stake her claim in the name of her own budding faction, the Chiss Combine and the New Imperial Order's momentary dog in the fight for supremacy over Chiss space, offering a familiar face to the would be New Imperials, so too were the Chiss Ascendancy continuing its shadowy operation. That would be where the Anaxsi diplomat Julius Hasker played his role, having just met with a representative with the Chiss Ascendancy, Irveric opened a channel to both of them, establishing from a distance a meeting of minds to determine the future of the Chiss as the Iron Sun slowly dawned in its territory.

Haskler began and Irveric's image appeared in hologram form. The Sovereign Imperator stood in the pragmatic regalia fit for his station, black, grey and white with twelve silver rank bars representing his rank, the very highest in the New Imperial Order.

"Very well, Haskler. What do you have to report?" Irveric inquired outright. He was a pragmatist through and through, not caring to weave frivolous ceremonialism into his words. He wanted results and answers.