Private Gunboat Diplomacy

[Aurelian Sigismund]

---

High Imperator of the Rim-Guard Order


Tags: Julius Haskler

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​

After the engagement at Csilla, the squadron of the Rim-Guard was on its way back to their headquarters but needed some makeshift repairs. The Phalanx was hanging below a field of meteroids, the two Munificent next to it. The Blade of Purity was damaged, its engagement with the Harrowers demanded some tribute, but nothing which could not be repaired. They were tough enemies, but that is just to be expected.

The Phalanx suffered no damage, its shields stood, as expected, firm. Ecthelion Aiglos was in his quarters aboard the big warship. It was not much bigger than any of the quarters of his paladins, just additional space for a desk and working station, all other stuff would be done in the strategium or staff rooms of the Order. Right now he was occupied with the casualties of the recent battle.

As closest point to the Core as he could get right now and as it featured neutral space, Aiglos had contacted the aspiring leader of Anaxes to meet with him. He was curious about the New Imperial Order as well as this mans personal ambitions, after all the Galaxy was too crowded with Jedi and Sith to actually breath in a proper manner, but to remove this factor, it needed some assistance, allies which the Eternal Empire simply could not provide at this point.

 

[Julius Haskler]

Objective: Negotiate
Tag: Aurelian Sigismund

He didn't know much of the mysterious "Venerable" that had contacted him. Yet another self-styled "Imperator", but Julius felt this kind of man was different from Sularen's. Of his Order, there was nothing to say as he knew nothing, but the diplomat had analysed the transmission he received and found interesting pieces of knowledge. First of all the Venerable was too tall and large to be truly a human despite having the facial similarities of one. Then, the gold decorations, manner of speech, and titles were linked to a degree with the old Eternal Empire of Zakuul and its Knights.

This was interesting and had awakened in the Anaxsi a curiosity he hadn't felt since long. The trace of a past and powerful Force Order couldn't be ignored in his work of restoring an empire, a pure state rid of Force Users loyal to the Dark Side. And hence, he had accepted the meeting offered to him. Leaving Csilla at the end of the battle, the Ultimus Imperialis had followed the Rim-Guard Order fleet out of the system and joined it parsecs away from any planet. No one could find them in the great black of space and disturb their negotiations.

The diplomatic Frigate came close to the Venerable's flagship, and a boarding tube was launch to establish contact. Accompanied by two TodHusars of his personal escort, the old diplomat awaited his interlocutor in the middle of the passage. What was exchanged there would shape the fate of many worlds, and the war could be changed forever. It'd be a shame if Haskler was unable to better understand the person he was meeting and get the best out of the discussion. Be it an alliance, or just information to reuse in the future.

 

[Aurelian Sigismund]

---

High Imperator of the Rim-Guard Order


Tags: Julius Haskler

---

​

Ecthelion Aiglos was clad in his power armour, a red cape wrapped around his shoulder, the lower cloth touching the deck. Gold and red. The colours of the Rim-Guard Order were not subtle, but their opposition to decadence could not have been greater. To be heard, to be seen needed something to catch the eye and this way it was assured they did.

The bulkhead to the connection tube opened and he stepped out of his ship, no guard or companion was seen and he approached the trio who was awaiting him, alone. The plated boots left a heavy clanking sound on the deck as he got closer to the man. Two meters in front he would stop and offer a slight inclination of his head. His face is weathered, tanned and the skin seemed old, ancient scars running all across it as well as visible cybernetics on the jaw and eyebrows. The eyes are unsettling. Aiglos has a pair of ice blue eyes, bright which seem not to blink.

"Lord Haskler. I am happy that you agreed to a meeting. I am Ecthelion Aiglos, High Imperator of the Rim-Guard Order. Would you prefer to stay here or go to your ship for our conversation?"

Aiglos was curious about this mans ambitions and the connection to the New Imperial Order as well. They were responsible for his liege´s trial, but siding with Sith demands some form of punishment. There were indeed possibilities in the air, the foundation of relations if the talks should go well. He looked at the man, briefly observing the details of his pose and behaviour from top to toe before swiftly glancing at his guards.

 

[Julius Haskler]

Objective: Negotiate
Tag: Aurelian Sigismund

It was fascinating to see the man move. It was almost a living tank, his power armour hitting the connection tube with a deafening sound. Julius had estimated the Venerable was huge, but his expectations had been outmatched. What a powerful killer it could be! If what the diplomat had heard of the Rim-Guard was true, then he needed to make an ally of the mysterious, golden warrior. For the sake of the Empire, an order of these men could not be let on the loose, obeying to another faction.

Lord Haskler. I am happy that you agreed to a meeting. I am Ecthelion Aiglos, High Imperator of the Rim-Guard Order. Would you prefer to stay here or go to your ship for our conversation?​

The idea of staying out there in the tube was appealing but the Anaxsi knew he would upset his interlocutor if he refused to make him visit his ship. As such, he replied quickly and moved along.

"Let us get aboard my ship: the conference room suits better for our talks than this tube... Please follow me, Imperator."

The four men got aboard the diplomatic frigate, and Julius guided his guest to the conference room. Through doors, hallways and small rooms, the group arrived at a great chamber, soberly decorated with an imperial banner. A table was installed directly under the banner, and occupied the rest of the conference room. Facing the imperial banner, a naked wall was meant to welcome the guest's banner if he brought one.

"Welcome aboard the Ultimus Imperialis, High Imperator. Tell me, what is exactly your order? I am curious to learn of the whereabouts of your Zakuul-inspired Knights."

 

[Aurelian Sigismund]

---

High Imperator of the Rim-Guard Order


Tags: Julius Haskler

---

​

With a slight bow Ecthelion would follow the noble, his eyes wandering around the ship as they moved through it. He was not worried not have taken any escort or guards with him and aside from a ceremonial looking short-sword he appeared unarmed. It added to the aura of confidence which was carried by the pure physicalness of his body and massive armour. He chose the nobles ship for a reason, it would be a small gesture of submission.

As he sat down and looked at the imperial banner, the chair he was sitting on gave a loud protests of strain as the heavily armored figure placed himself on it.

"I like the name, Ultima Imperialis, very appealing and I thank you for your welcome.

The Rim-Guard Order was formed by myself during a quest I was on in the Unknown Regions. The original Eternal Empire was streching wide into what you coreworlders call the Unknown Regions and Wild Space and my goal was to find more Iokath technology. Between excavations, research and observation there was little else to do than to consider what is going on in the coreworlds. The Sith, the Jedi, they are a liability to stability, a stability which the Knights of Zakuul had provided a long time ago to the systems I was visiting. The Eternal Empire could not be revived nor do I see myself fit to do so and the implications with the current Eternal Empire would be noteworthy. Therefore I founded an order of soldiers who would stand in for stability, order and justice as well as equality. Through genetical engineering, based on my own template, I have created the first generation of soldiers which are composed both of Force sensitives and non-sensitives. We have the firm believe that Force users should not be entitled to any priviliged position or any position of rule at all and will strife to make that happen. Obviously starting with the greater threat posed by the Dark side and their warmongers, the Sith."

Aiglos pauses a moment to look for any obvious reactions, there was no lie in the words he spoke, but to call it the whole truth, would be a lie itself. They needed allies and friends to proceed, resources and manpower before anything further could happen. They would make friends here and there, even send unrequested support. A task force was gathering to be ready to help against any movements of those beast-abominations in the East.

"We know that there are many out there who share similar or aligning beliefs, especially in regards to the removal of the Sith. We have resources which we will gladly offer in support to overthrow and remove destabilising factors."

 

[Julius Haskler]

Objective: Negotiate
Tag: Aurelian Sigismund

"That is a fascinating story, Imperator. If I may comment, you are a crusader of the past ages, convinced of a sacred mission to destroy the current Force orders and establish an Empire of equality between people. I have two opinions on your order and your project, Imperator.

The first of them is of course my respect for your ambitious mission. I find myself agreeing with every part of your plan to reform the galaxy. In fact, I know a state who embodies the reforms you wish to bring to the Galaxy. The New Imperial Order was born from rebellion against the Sith Empire and is on a crusade to destroy it and kill the Sith. Once this is done, we as a state wish to bring our vision to the whole Galaxy.

The second of my opinions is the insuppressible feeling of danger I have when I realise such powerful warriors could obey anyone... And especially the modern Eternal Empire. You see, it is ruled by a Dark Side user we have to overthrow for the safety of the people. We cannot allow her to reign if the Eternal Empire is to be kept safe.

I'd like to help you in your quest to get rid of the Dark Side. Where do you wish to start ?"

 

[Aurelian Sigismund]

---

High Imperator of the Rim-Guard Order


Tags: Julius Haskler

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​

"Your worry is unnecessary. The Eternal Empire claims a friction of the population of the Galactic Alliance or even the size of what your New Imperial Order controls. The Empress has shown support for the Sith Empire and that she is very personally engaged, one is a bad decision and the latter is unfit for a ruler. She could gather some strength, but there is little ambition. There are more apparent threats like the Sith, those chaotic Maw raiders and the savage beasts in the East."

Where he would like to start? He was starting already with this conversation. Plans have been set in motion which cannot be undone anymore and step by step the figures move.

"Tell me more about the empire you are advertising for and maybe, about yourself."

 

[Julius Haskler]

Objective: Negotiate
Tag: Aurelian Sigismund

There they were. It was now time to present the New Imperial Order in all its beauty and strength. Perhaps it was time to prepare an alliance, maybe? Although Julius was not really familiar with the Eternal Empire politics, the Rim-Guard Order seemed like the kind of idealistically-led groups ready to die for their ideals.

"The New Imperial Order resembles many past empires yet is truly none of them. It was born when Sith Empire soldiers decided to rebel and overthrow their dark masters. Since then, the Order has fought an endless war against the Dark Side of the Force and its minions. Under Imperial rule, the people thrive and develop their true potential. We seek to free people from authoritarian regimes and create for them a place in the Galaxy where they can live peacefully. This is the state I speak for, and I am proud to do so."

 

[Aurelian Sigismund]

---

High Imperator of the Rim-Guard Order


Tags: Julius Haskler

---

​

"So it is a collection of states? Why does it regard itself as 'imperial' if it opposes authoritarian rule? From the outside view it indeed shares a great many similarities to the Galactic Empire and its successors or copies. The militarisation is for sure not just a facade. The justification for it certainly is out of necessarity to overthrow something as vicious as the Sith Empire. Am I correct?

The seeking of power is as natural as breathing, but I would not like to be treated as fool to believe that it is any different from the previous Empires with the one exception that actually is important: It opposes the Dark side of the Force. I see no issue in a strong, militarised state to counter outside threats. There is a time for war and there is a time for peace."

Once again his modifications and the cruel torture he had suffered under the Exchange millennia ago repaid. No emotion was on his face nor in his tone, as dry and only a sparklet of organic sounds in it as always. Aiglos was sitting straight in the strained chair, the armor did not seem to make it comfortable, but if that was the case, it was hidden behind his professional expression. One arm was laying on the table while the other was in an angle from his body that the hand would rest on his thigh.

"You are from Anaxes, a planet which is part of the Galactic Alliance. Why are you not representing them and in return, your planet?"

 

[Julius Haskler]

Objective: Negotiate
Tag: Aurelian Sigismund

The Imperator was trying to corner him, Julius realised. Whether it was just to understand what the diplomat wanted or prove his superiority was to be seen, the Anaxsi had to be careful of his answers. All was going to unfold now, Julius understood. He chose his words carefully.

"There are several matters you point out here. The New Imperial Order is indeed a spiritual successor to the Fel Empire. Itself is a descendant of the Imperial Remnant of the Galactic Empire, but through the ages, the politics changed. Nowadays, the power is less centralised and has a feudal organisation. Each Moff answers to the Sovereign Imperator, but some are promoted to the rank of Warlord. Then, they are allowed more autonomy in their way of governing. Finally, you may know the Order has been built by the flow of exiles and traitor, each bringing his own culture and political view.

This leads me to answer your final question: Anaxes. I'd like to tell you a story. Long ago, just after the Battle of Endor, Moff Kraig Haskler, leading the Corellian Sector, founded the Imperial Federation, a progressive state aiming to correct the errors of Palpatine's Empire while keeping the Imperial spirit. He joined forces with Grand Admiral Thrawn then went missing. But he had managed to found a family, and his son rose to prominence as the Imperial Remnants were reorganised under the authority of Grand Admiral Pellaeon. House Haskler ruled Anaxes for centuries along with other pro-Imperial families.

But when the Grayson Imperium regained hold of the Core in 859, the Imperial Families were slowly forced off Anaxes. The establishment of the Galactic Alliance was met with a coup. We failed to maintain our rule and were forced to go into exile. The Jedi replaced our government with a frail, corrupted state who ultimately brought ruin to the planet. This is why I refuse to speak as a member of the Galactic Alliance."

 

[Aurelian Sigismund]

✠ High Imperator of the Rim-Guard Order ✠

✠ Objective: Converse
✠ Location: Haskler vessel
✠ Gear: Power Armour, Holo-transmitter
✠ Assets: N/A
✠ Tag(s): Julius Haskler

⮚ THEME​

With interest Ecthelion was listening to the explanations of the diplomat. It was good explanation and definitely a good answer, but what did that mean for the idea behind this meeting? To engage in further talks with the New Imperial Order could become either a possibility or an obstacle, but they proved a bit more useful and fruitful to his goals than the Eternal Empire had.

"Aside from removing the Sith menace, what are the goals and targets of the New Imperial Order? Additionally, what is the widespread view on the Force if there is a united approach to the topic, including what kind of Force users you field or employ?"

The Anaxes topic was interesting. The Galactic Alliance was a completely different state where Aiglos was playing, but acquiring a second world or even vote for the Senate could score a great early advance. They were tearing each other apart and soon there would be room and space for new or in this case, old rulers to return. The original idea of supporting Byss grew untenable after their ruler proved to be a Fethhead in the face of overwhelming odds.

"The idea to regain the Anaxes system with and for you has undoubtly a great appeal. My control on the Brentaal system could possibly be used as a lever for this. What are your thoughts?"

​

 

[Julius Haskler]

Objective: Negotiate
Tag: Aurelian Sigismund

Aside from removing the Sith menace, what are the goals and targets of the New Imperial Order? Additionally, what is the widespread view on the Force if there is a united approach to the topic, including what kind of Force users you field or employ?​

"The New Imperial Order's policy on Force Users is simple, High Imperator. All Dark Side Users are to be killed on sight. The Jedi... Are planned to be reduced to a minor role. We admit the only force users that are neutral enough: the Imperial Knights, warriors staunchly devoted to the Emperor and the Empire. We hope to get rid of every Force User in the long run. What we mean to accomplish is to abolish the usefulness of the Force.

But you must know our Order does not simply plan to destroy the Sith Empire. It is one of our objectives, for sure, but there are other realms we seek to discover. The Chiss Ascendancy is one of the minor states we are discussing in order to establish a protectorate. They have proven their incapacity to protect themselves from the threat of the Maw and we will ensure their security as best as we can in their stead.
On the other hand, we are in talks with the Galactic Alliance and the Silver Jedi Concord to create an alliance against the Bryn'adûl: these genocidal aliens have come too far and we are ready to push them back as quickly as possible.
Finally, we are trying to sign a treaty with the First Order. We share many traits and we recognise the same enemies. Against the all-powerful Confederacy or the Brotherhood of the Maw, we will need coordinated strikes to promote imperialism in the galaxy."

The idea to regain the Anaxes system with and for you has undoubtedly a great appeal. My control of the Brentaal system could possibly be used as a lever for this. What are your thoughts?​

This triggered the immediate attention of Julius. Control over Brentaal? This was unheard of. From what he knew, the only ones who had gained control over whatever world in the Core were the Galactic Alliance and the Warlords. It was necessary to be cautious. The Anaxsi could not accept to see Sularen's shadow grow on his cherished world.

"Your control over Brentaal? I thought the Alliance was the only faction to control whatever worlds of the Core... I did not hear of people controlling worlds. Anyway. I do not plan to launch a full-scale invasion of the world. To be frank, I do not wish to unsettle the Alliance, which is, needless to say, our ally. No, I do not wish to rush things. If I have to come back with all my forces on Anaxes, it will be when the Maw and the SIth are dealt with. I appreciate the offer, but the time has yet to come, Imperator."

 

[Aurelian Sigismund]

✠ High Imperator of the Rim-Guard Order ✠

✠ Objective: Converse
✠ Location: Haskler vessel
✠ Gear: Power Armour, Holo-transmitter
✠ Assets: N/A
✠ Tag(s): Julius Haskler

⮚ THEME​

Ecthelion was curious and definitely interested. The 'imperial knights' seemed to sound close to what he had believed in. But it was always political, the imperial knights would answer to their liege and his anti-Sith doctrine. Would they really adapt to an anti-Jedi doctrine after the Sith were annihilated? The Alliance and Concord would not be in support of it. But the Eternal Empire and First Order would be

"Elaborate on the term to abolish the usefulness of the Force."

After a short pause he would continue.

"The imperialist policies you are pursuing are intriguing, especially because of your federal principles of local authorities. I wonder if you and the New Imperial Order would be approving of an outpost of my Order on one of your worlds, for mutual benefit. We will fortify the planet and use it for volunteer recruitment, while that portion of our order which is stationed there will be recognised as a 'warlord'-state. Not our Order, but a chapter of it. I would myself propose an agreement which is based on a military pact especially aimed against the Sith in all forms and the Bryn'adûl."

It was a simple and straightforward offer. To expand the influence cloud of the Rim-Guard was the intention behind the meeting and from all of the intended conversations, this was the most interesting due to the size and ideology behind the New Imperial Order.

He offered no word of explanation in regards to Brentaal. If the man didn't know, he would find out. Or not. There was no intelligence agency required to see that the new Senator was CEO of Aiglos Company. Brentaal was the most important system in the Galaxy and over time it would prove to be the appropriate instrument.

​

 

[Julius Haskler]

Objective: Negotiate
Tag: Aurelian Sigismund

Julius was feeling increasingly worried. If this man controlled Brentaal, there was no doubt he was aligned with the Warlords. Or was he? This needed to be drawn out. And secondly, it was incredible to hear a man he hardly knew ask for more power in the New Imperial space. Was he really more power-hungry than anti-Sith? Julius needed to speak with Tavlar. He could not allow that.

"The Force is indeed useful. Only a fool could say the contrary. But what we aim to do is to abolish the rank of the people wielding it. The Sith? Warlords and power-hungry warmongers ready to destroy their Empire to satiate their whims. The Jedi? Self-proclaimed peacekeepers unable to wage any war necessary to end a war. The Imperial Knights? Slaves of an ideal, servants of the Empire. They are the ones I respect the most because they accept to serve an idea rather than themselves.

Concerning your need for an establishment in the New Imperial space... I cannot answer for now, because I need to speak with the Sovereign Imperator first. We cannot house one of your Chapters without his consent, especially if you control Brentaal. And about this, I have a question. Whom do you recognise as the leader of your party in the Galactic Alliance space?"

 

[Aurelian Sigismund]

✠ High Imperator of the Rim-Guard Order ✠

✠ Objective: Converse
✠ Location: Haskler vessel
✠ Gear: Power Armour, Holo-transmitter
✠ Assets: N/A
✠ Tag(s): Julius Haskler

⮚ THEME​

EThe High Imperator did not led any notion of emotion escape him. Because he did not want to and because he could not do so. Apparently the New Imperials were careful, which was good, but there were more pressing matters than local politics.

"I believe Senator Morteisen supports the Corporate-Populist parties, an individual called Tambor is heading them. Brentaal is very business focused and the houses are very proud about their sovereignity. But regarding the local politics you should talk to him yourself, he is more acquainted with the nuances of the Alliances carpet.

I, as extension for our Order, am interested in less elevated topics. Politics are for those who come after the war, but first there is the war we have to win. We are just soldiers, brothers in arms with an ideology we believe is beneficial for the greater galaxy."

​

 

[Julius Haskler]

Objective: Negotiate
Tag: Aurelian Sigismund

The diplomat wasn't surprised by his interlocutor's disregard for politics. It irradiated from him: he was a warrior, nothing else. Fine. If he wanted to carry the sword in the New Imperial's stead, Julius could give him that. And maybe they could work something out together, a mean of keeping an eye on the Order whilst agreeing to their demands of a watchtower, somewhere in Imperial space.

"I understand the importance of our military, though it is an utter weapon of pointless destruction if the politicians don't keep it in line. But I agree, there are times for politics, and other times for warfare. You wish to bring mayhem to the Sith, and I can give you exactly what you want, to one condition.

I am ready to offer you a watchtower in the world of Yinchorr, in which you could house roughly a company of soldiers. This building would be constructed under your own specifications, and the Imperial-Anaxsi would assist your troops in defending it. Furthermore, I could obtain a small shipyard in orbit, where you would dock your vessels and repair them. My world would become one of your bases of operations.

But this comes with a condition. I cannot accept foreign troops, of which the true allegiance is uncertain, for free on my ground. I will demand your word that your Order never works against the New Imperial Order, or with its enemies, be they Sith, Imperial Warlords of the Core, namely Marlon Sularen and Vel'alari, or anyone explicitly trying to undermine the New Imperial influence. I suspect you are a man of honour, a man of your word. And if you swear to me your Order will never work or collaborate against the New Imperial Order, then I am ready to offer you a place on my world."

 

[Aurelian Sigismund]

✠ High Imperator of the Rim-Guard Order ✠

✠ Objective: Converse
✠ Location: Haskler vessel
✠ Gear: Power Armour, Holo-transmitter
✠ Assets: N/A
✠ Tag(s): Julius Haskler

⮚ THEME​

Aiglos listened to the offer and considered it. It was a start, but he would not allow any outsiders near a Sanctum. A minor outpost would not serve well for representative means, it would install expectations which would stall any advancements and progress Aiglos intended.

"We are willing to accept your offer for the outpost with the allegiance conditions. The New Imperial Order has little if not nothing to be afraid of in my Orders regard. We will support your efforts wherever possible.

The conditions on the fortress itself, I cannot accept in this way. Our Order is an enclosed brotherhood and neither I in their name, nor they themselves will accept outsiders among their ranks or duties. We are more than willing to support and aid you and your troops or law enforcement in any way possible, but for our homes we are decisively opposing to any interference. It is a very private affair for us.

I could gladly provide you with a list of the defences, though not of their controls or exact workings and I would like to ask for space for a Cohort, which is a thousand of my brothers and sisters. I am willing to reduce this locally to half a cohort, if you can offer me a second place for the other half."

It was a gamble. The Order needed places, but they needed them properly. A company would be of no use to them, they would leave the fortress behind unguarded in the event of a threat appearing or being called to crusade. That could not happen, nor would the Cohorts Imperator accept to split up his paladins like this.

​

 

[Julius Haskler]

Objective: Negotiate
Tag: Aurelian Sigismund

"I am not the maker of the Yinchorri defences, Imperator, but I will see what can be done. Don't worry, for your cohorts will be housed and will be protected. The Rim-Guard Order will be considered an ally of the New Imperial Order as long as you fight by our side and we can help you in your wars. On this basis, I shall have no problem granting you a place to be on my planet, though I would advise you to seek Moffship and establish yourself on a planet that could serve as a base of operation."

Though Julius had no problem allocating a fortification to the Rim-Guard Order, he was not exactly sure of how to deal with the idea of having a thousand super-soldiers out of his control on Yinchorr. It was a guarantee of more security and military strength for sure, but things could go south quickly if one of the parties began to rethink the accord. Hence, Julius had to delay the technical side of the discussion, not engage himself in anything he would regret.

"Rest assured, High Imperator, that you will not regret your alliance with the New Imperial Order. We both seek peace through power and security through order. Even if we do not share the same political and philosophical goal, we are united by a common desire to unite the galaxy and save it from the Sith, the Bryn'adûl, the Maw, etc... With your help, we will bring death to them. And if you accept to swear an oath of never raising against the New Imperial Order or working with its enemies, then I'll gladly fight by your side."