Faction Light calls, Iron answers | [GA] [NIO] [NJO]

[Spirit of Wisdom]

As the brutal battle for Ziost and the tense negotiations on Tiss'Sharl came to a close in the far regions of Sith space, the gears of diplomacy were in motion at the heart of the Core. To further complicate matters, a new nation of Sith sycophants had arisen in the wake of the successful liberation of Felucia and Korriban. On Coruscant, the Chancellor agonized over the next logical steps in the war against the Sith. It was time to set aside old grievances and seek the aid of others who would see the Sith destroyed. After consulting with the New Jedi Order, Chancellor Adhira Chandra sent a secure message to the Imperator of the New Imperial Order and invited him to the Alliance capital to negotiate the terms of a new treaty.​

The Federal District of Coruscant was abuzz with crowds of journalists and citizens pressing toward the Executive Building to witness what would be one of the most historic actions undertaken by their democratically elected government - a formal alliance with an imperial power. A challenge to the Sith and anyone who would stand in the way of the light.​

On the landing at the top of the grand staircase, a pavilion had been erected. Three massive tables, carved from a fallen wroshyr tree, dominated the central dais. The representatives of the Alliance government, the New Imperial Order, and the New Jedi Order would find a seat reserved for each of them.​

The arrival of the Imperator was imminent and many Senators and Jedi had already begun to gather around the tables in chairs reserved for observers. They were all waiting for the moment that the leaders of the rumored triumvirate would arrive.​

Ryv | Auteme | Irveric Tavlar | Aerarii Tithe | @New Jedi Order Council | @Senators of the Alliance | @Leaders of the NIO

Spoiler: Thread Info

This thread is a negotiation between the leaders of the NIO, the NJO, and the Alliance to form a triumvirate that will stand against the Sith. Observers are allowed, but the event will be heavily guarded and only the leading members of each group will be directly involved in the negotiation.

Non-members of these factions will not be invited to the event and average citizens will not be within earshot of the negotiations.

 

[Aaran Tafo]

The tension in the air was thick. One did not need to be an empath to tell that everyone present was on edge. Emotions still ran high after Ziost. Wounds were still healing; some were still fresh and bleeding. But it was the ability to take wounds like those and keep moving, to show the scars proudly. It was that the New Imperial Order respected. Like the Empire they broke away from, they were a nation built upon the strength of one's will to control the universe around them.

Granted, they did so in a far more tolerable and less morally repugnant way. Harshness and cruelty still existed within them of course. But it was more tightly controlled, directed at those they previously served.

Perhaps it was a show of strength that Aaran was here. Warden of Peace, Battlemaster. Two new titles that sat upon his head. Heavy chains of responsibility and authority that he did not ask for nor desire. Which did tell him that deep down, he was well suited for the job. He did not have the raw charisma of Ryv . The ability to rally others behind him and lead them into battle. He did not possess the keen mind, endless optimism or the razor-sharp mind of Auteme

He was a fighter. An explorer. Now a defender and teacher. Someone who was very used to running in a straight line and one could only feel sorry for whoever got in his way.

Politics was never something he considered himself brave enough to partake in. Yet here he was. Sitting at the table where other titans would debate and argue. Expected to defend his friends and allies, not with his sword, but with his tongue. An arena he felt himself unsuited to be in.

But desperate times called for people to make choices they never thought they would. And to his own surprise he agreed to the call to action. To sit at this table and weigh in on the fate of nations.

If not for the years of discipline. He would probably be sweating buckets. Let him dive deep into the territories of the Draelvasier, let him assault Dromund Kass itself. But the idea of being at these talks simply filled him with dread. He thanked the Force that he was not alone here. There were others to talk the lead in these discussions. All he had to do was weigh in where his expertise mattered and stand true to his beliefs.

Now if only he could unclench his jaw, he might be able to convince himself that he could achieve such goals.

 

[Caarlyle Rausgeber]

The Grand Admiral felt a strange feeling fluttering through himself as he walked toward the central dais. Here he was. In the lair of the enemy. His enemy though, as he needed to remind himself constantly. This Galactic Alliance was not the same as that of old. But the wounds of the First Imperial-Galactic Alliance still bore deep within. A generation of Dosuun's finest, ravaged by a war which had seen untold suffering. And yet, the times had changed. He was no longer a true First Imperial. He was New Imperial. And the enemies had changed. No longer were Sith friends, but rather enemies. And they both had made enemies out of this Galactic Alliance and his new master, Tavlar.

As the Grand Admiral climbed the dais, his youthful features glared out at the dignitaries. They were parasites. Gross and craven functionaries in democracy. But opportunism could be forgiven. It was natural in such states for these scum to fester. But there were far worse beyond them, Jedi. Despicable. None of these worms hardly knew the first thing about what was necessary in a war of this. The Jedi could fight admirably but their trifling often muddled affairs. Obfuscated strategies and doctrines which may end conflicts far sooner. Still he would hold his tongue from his criticism. At least until the hordes of scientists sequestered away on Prefsbelt IV, in the bowels of bunkers and laboratories had yet to harness the Badisha'curazi to truly weaponize it. A tangible way to end the tyranny of Jedi and Sith.

The Grand Admiral, warlord of Prefsbelt now ascended the staircase. He was attired in his crisp, ivory uniform. His rank plaque shone and glittered in the light. The reds, blues and yellows, forged from kyber on an obsidian slab. He crossed the dais to the New Imperial table. His cape flying behind him as his boots clicked against the floor. Once established where he was to sit, Rausgeber did so, pulling out his seat, and then resting upon it, pulling himself to the table. The Grand Admiral cut a strange figure. At least compared to what he usually seemed to be. He seemed, younger. More spry. There was very little in the way of wrinkles or creases, and his hair was a platinum blonde.

Once seated the Grand Admiral began to rummage around his tunic. Placing upon it three articles. A small wooden box, carved with an ornate First Imperial sigil upon its lid. A datapad. And a lighter. Feeling rather secure in his post, Carlyle cast a gaze around the crowd, to the leering journalists and politicians, before then finally the other executives at the table. He gave a curt, albeit polite nod. But would not speak. Not until the Sovereign Imperator had arrived.

 

[Faith Organa]

Faith watched the expanse of where the Imperator's ship would land. Had they taken every precaution? Was this the next step? Becca stood quietly by her side. "You look worried."

Faith nodded, "I am." In truth she felt old how much more fight did she have within herself. "The battles with the Sith will never stop, they merely take a break reform and come back. "

Becca nodded, "But we learn from each version"

"We do" She nodded to her aide, "maybe I need a nap." She wouldn't worry Becca with her concerns it would only frighten her, no this was something she would discuss with Drahr.

Becca smiled, "yes Mam."

Where would this path lead that she now walked upon?

 

[Zaavik Perl]

CORUSCANT // FEDERAL DISTRICT
NJO COUNCIL // SHADOW OF KNOWLEDGE

​

Imperials, what were they good for? Absolutely nothing. Well, aside from fighting Sith, that was. Still, recognizing evil didn't immediately qualify them as redeemable in his eyes. There was something to be said about their pursuit, but Authoritarians were Authoritarians no matter who they fought. Political Philosophy was far from his strongest subject, but it didn't take much to brew a dislike for autocrats with loins burning for conquest.

Zaavik took his designated seat at the council table without any outward protest. Elbow on the table, he held his chin in his hand, restlessly chewing on his index fingernail. As Imperials began to file in, a disembodied throbbing began to ache in the vague vicinity of his now-cybernetic limb. The sensation heralded memories of Yinchor, tickling the back of his recollection.

And we're here so soon? After that?

Perhaps it was a testament to the threat of the dark? In any case, Zaavik managed to miraculously hold his objections on the tip of his tongue. The proper time to voice his reservations would come, although he doubted it would bear any real fruit. Nor would complaints beforehand, though. The Knight sighed, resigning himself to the busy atmosphere of the Pavillion.

Tension stewed.

Ryv Auteme Irveric Tavlar Aerarii Tithe Adhira Chandra Aaran Tafo Caarlyle Rausgeber Faith Organa​

 

[Jend-Ro Quill]

In full view of the assembled civilians and journalists, ten-meter-tall holograms sprang up from a number of unaccompanied Neimoidian mechno-chairs. The crowd pressed back a bit, looking up at the spectacle, hoping it was a stunt of some kind.

The holograms depicted a static message: a recording of Quill in full, shabby, well-worn Jedi robes.

"I'm Jedi Master Jend-Ro Quill. I'm a resident of the Galactic Alliance. Until very recently, I was a peripheral member of the New Jedi Order. I resigned because the Galactic Alliance, the New Imperial Order, and members of the New Jedi Order brutally purged Sith academies on Dantooine, Bastion, and Korriban. I broke ranks and prevented a fourth massacre at Ziost by secretly evacuating the youngest Sith students and setting them free. Some of you will call this treason.

"The most common justification I've heard for these war crimes is that the Sith haven't hesitated to kill the young either. This argument is obviously evil.

"The second most common justification is that the Jedi only kill those who raise arms against them. This is false. Jedi operatives firebombed the Sith academy on Korriban, killing children. The argument is also specious: it is actively and consistently used to justify killing young teenagers who are defending themselves while spurred on by merciless masters. In most cases nonlethal methods weren't even considered.

"Many of the merciless, brutal crimes I've seen, either firsthand or in the memories of surviving children, have involved Jedi fighting side by side with New Imperial Order stormtroopers.

"Today's alliance talks are only the latest sign that the Dark Side of the Force has corrupted the decision-making of the Alliance and the New Jedi Order. I renounce my Galactic Alliance citizenship. I've resigned from the NJO privately and this is me doing it publicly. I won't be complicit in what's happened and what's to come.

"To those Jedi who participated in these war crimes, I suggest taking the Barash vow: walk away from acting as a Jedi. Forget your lightsaber if necessary. Serve the galaxy in privacy and humility until your conscience is clear, if it ever is.

"To those Jedi who were not complicit and need to avoid being part of the war's oncoming sins, I suggest becoming a Wayseeker, an ancient term for a Jedi who answers to no Council - only their own conscience. There are many enclaves that would give you shelter and allies against the galaxy's evils - some of whom are right beside you.

"To the people of the Galactic Alliance: demand accountability. Independent investigations, resignations, criminal charges, strict rules of engagement, and no alliance with the Imperial Order. Nothing else will do. And I'm sorry in advance, but very little of that will happen."

The recording restarted on a loop. It would continue until someone switched off the mechno-chair holoprojectors.

 

[Tom Kovack]

... and that was the New Jedi Order he was going to be joining.

Tom sighed and leaned back in his seat, crossing his arms over his chest as technicians scrambled to switch off the holoprojectors. He'd come here as an observer, though he had more than a little vested interest in the outcome of the proceedings. This had caught him off guard.

He remembered those Jedi conferences held after the Elder Compact, and how so many of the GA people were up in arms at the first word of criticism toward their alliance with the NIO. Well, it sure did look like they were paying for it now. Killing little Sith children in schools. What was the point of targeting schools, anyway? To kill the master-level teachers? Whole lot more students than teachers in a school. Oh, and no nonlethal methods were ever even considered? Were these people even Jedi?

Ah, stupid question. The ideal never matched the reality. He wondered what they would have to say for themselves about all this. As a future NJO member, he wanted to know just what he was getting into.

 

[Adhira Chandra]

The Chancellor's ship approached the plaza with an escort of Senate Guard on speeders. She had arrived in time to see the beginning of the holoprojection, but unfortunately for the passionate upstart, the projector had been placed in approximately the same spot her ship was to land. As the landing ramp descended, it crushed the device, ending the transmission's loop. The speeders descended to the ground and the guards dismounted, saluting as Adhira descended the steps in billowing blue and gold robes. The plumed guards flanked the old woman as she ascended the steps to the dais and fanned out to stand guard when she approached her seat. Notable among her entourage was Auteme , the Shield of the Jedi and the de facto co-leader of the New Jedi Order. They had traveled together to the meeting, sharing a light lunch and discussing the negotiations that were about to take place. Adhira enjoyed the company of the young Jedi.​

She nodded toward the chair that Auteme would occupy that the table reserved for the New Jedi Order's leaders and took her place near her own. After gathering her skirts, she carefully lowered herself into the high backed chair and steepled her fingers in front of her.​

​

Her dark eyes lingered on the spot where the hologram had been playing on a loop until her ship unceremoniously brought the transmission to a rather abrupt end. She had only heard some of what the man said and certainly not enough of it to form an informed opinion about his character or state of mind. Yet, something she did hear stuck with her now, in that chair. He said something about the purging of the academies on Dantooine, Bastion, and Korriban. Adhira was Commander-In-Chief of the Galactic Alliance Defense Forces and she had played an active role in strategizing for the war with the Sith, but she had avoided reports like the ones she knew existed about the academies.​

They were still waiting, unopened, in her secure communicator. In truth, she did not want to know what had to be done in the name of the Light. War was a brutal thing and Sith used every tactic in their arsenal to demoralize the Alliance. From human shields to ritual sacrifices of entire populations. One would think a Jedi would be more concerned about those atrocities. War was not for those with weak constitutions, she knew that now. She made the tough calls every day and she lived with the consequences.​

Now, she was ready to end the war and the best way forward was to join with the New Imperial Order and empower the New Jedi Order to make their own official contributions to the effort.​

She knew she would not sleep well that night. "I hope Tavlar does not keep us waiting long," she said softly.​

​

Auteme - Ryv - Irveric Tavlar - Aerarii Tithe - Jend-Ro Quill - Faith Organa - Zaavik Perl - Caarlyle Rausgeber - Aaran Tafo​

 

[Lucien Dooku]

NEW IMPERIAL ORDER // WARLORD OF NIRAUAN
CORUSCANT // FEDERAL DISTRICT
[VIBES] | [DRIP]

---

---

Luc rested his cheek within his palm as the holoprojectors finished their first loop of the message, then proceeded to rewind it back over. The Warlord of Nirauan had been present on Coruscant when the groundwork of the meeting had been put together. Vacation was what he called it officially, but his presence within the GA had not been limited to the sidelines during the nation's war against the Sith. His ambiguous connection to the NJO led to his lowkey involvement wherever their Strike Teams were present, providing the New Imperial Jedi a first-hand perspective on how the New Jedi Order operated.

There was plenty of room for the Alliance -- and by extension by Jedi -- to reach an accord with their counterparts within the New Imperial Order. All parties were in agreement that the Sith Empire would remain a threat until it was destroyed. And even better, all parties involved were willing to actual put in the effort to do something about that threat. The Silvers may have been content to remain passive towards the threats they were formed to oppose, but in Luc's opinion, that was totally fine for them to do.

And so he raised from his seat and walked past some of the technicians that arrived to deal with the breach of their security. He walked across to the closest chair projecting the hologram and unclipped the lightsaber hanging off his belt. A finger hovered over the button as he looked across the room, slightly annoyed by the constant looping of the Jedi's voice throughout the room. Seconds later his blade erupted into existence, piercing through the chair's projector just long enough to retire the machine and end the message for good.

"It takes the hubris of a true Jedi to chastise another on how they've dealt with a threat, while assuming the high ground in order to judge from afar."

Luc clipped his lightsaber back onto his belt. With the closest source of rhetoric removed from earshot, he gave off a final shrug towards the Jedi's interruption and returned back to lazing around in his chair. ​

Spoiler: tags

Auteme Adhira Chandra Ryv Irveric Tavlar Aerarii Tithe Jend-Ro Quill Faith Organa Zaavik Perl Caarlyle Rausgeber Aaran Tafo Tom Kovack

 

[Aelys]

There were times -- not many, maybe a handful -- when Aelys was glad that he was just a Padawan. After the first recording completed and then replayed itself, Aelys' thoughts came to an abrupt end, waiting, and when the silence was filled by the recording once more playing, so did his mind. At this point, he'd look to his Master, Ryv.

This was one of those times he was glad to be a Padawan. The ability to make decisions didn't lie on him, but rather the likes of the Sword of the Jedi, and even the Shield. Who, come to think of it, he still had yet to properly meet. Shrugging, he cleared his throat before prodding Ryv's shoulder with his knuckles -- pressing rather than pushing -- before opening his mouth.

"You know, uh... I know you've been doing this thing for a while. Seen way more shit that I couldn't even guess at." Forcibly coughing to clear his throat, he flashed a sheepish smile before shoving his hands awkwardly into his jacket pockets. It wasn't like he was unused to being real with Ryv. He was easy to talk to, or at least, made it to easy to talk to. But this, seemed... Weird. "What I'm trying to say is, after Jedha and Ziost, seeing the killing... Seeing 'em kill their own people..." Aelys shrugged as he dragged on. "Feth 'em."

"Jendroquill, the Sith. All of 'em. We supposed ta ask every person tryin' to kill us how old they are? If they're being forced?" Sucking his teeth, he was hot-blooded. The Sith turned their own guns on their people on Ziost. Annihilating entire street blocks, their own people that they proclaimed to protect. He lived on Thyrsus, in the sands, safe from the pale hands that had sought to ransack his planet, and his people. But the events his people suffered were generational, spanning back before he was even born. Fiery defiance was practically bred on him. Besides, he hated when people told him what to do.

"There's always a choice, you know? Die on your feet, or live on your knees."

Lifting a hand out of one of his jacket pockets, his palm came across his forehead, pushing back the stray woven lock of hair that fell across his face. The skin was hot. Yeah, for the best that he was still a Padawan.

Ryv

 

[Auteme]

Adhira Chandra | Zaavik Perl Aaran Tafo Lucien Dooku Caarlyle Rausgeber Faith Organa Aerarii Tithe Irveric Tavlar Ryv | Diplomats and Observers​

Auteme was the mirror image of the Chancellor herself. Younger and far less impressive (she might say gaudy), of course, but mirrored nonetheless. Her dress, her gait, her poise -- graceful, practiced, immaculate. The reporters had arrived en masse today. Most wanted shots of Chandra and Tavlar, but there were no shortage of observers keeping a close eye on Auteme, Ryv, and the other Jedi. The fact that they had secured themselves such a prominent position in this negotiation was no small feat. It would've been acceptable just to bring the Sword and Shield of the New Jedi Order as part of the Alliance's delegation, but an entire table? She could already imagine the headlines, the callbacks to the old Galactic Triumvirate. And, of course, the days of strife that had enveloped them at the time.

She glided a half step behind and beside the Chancellor before breaking off and making her way to the New Jedi Order's table, where a few of the others sat. The tension and nervousness didn't go unnoticed by the young Jedi. She sat down -- her chair pulled out by one of the nearby aides -- and folded her hands in her lap, sitting up straight. Though her face betrayed none of it, there was no shortage of nervous thoughts flooding her mind. Most focused on the segment of the statement she'd seen of Jend-Ro's speech. Her hand slipped to the small handbag she'd hidden under her gold sash. She clutched the Solitude Stone in her hands and reached to him for a short word.

When it had ended, her mind turned to the others there with her. In a moment of clarity she realized that she was the senior there. No longer was she out of her depth in some far-flung battle -- this was her arena, to some extent. "I won't stop you from talking," she sent them a short mental message. Her face didn't betray a thing. "But if there's anything you don't feel confident saying, just let me know. Be respectful. If you don't talk -- don't react. Don't let them tell what you're thinking. If you do talk -- make it worth listening to." An old piece of advice, from when she'd first met Adhira.

There were a number of media outlets curious about the relationship between the Chancellor and the New Jedi Order's Senate Representative. Many speculated the Balmorran was grooming a successor of sorts. Auteme wasn't being groomed, but she was learning and developing quickly enough that she was confident in giving advice to others about such diplomatic affairs. As ever, she mirrored Chandra; an image distorted only by a difference in age. Their goals were aligned.

These talks would go well, and the galaxy would prosper.

 

[Irveric Tavlar]

I M P E R A T O R
NEW IMPERIAL ORDER
GALACTIC CITY | CORUSCANT
IRON ANSWERS

MY SOUL TO TAKE​

Ever the warm welcome to Coruscant. He'd been to the Core Worlds only a handful of times. Even with the New Imperial Order in its fledgling status, the people of the Alliance used their right to mostly unrestricted speech well, staging demonstrations to show their ill will toward the Imperial. Signs and banners of Irveric's face sporting demonic and horrid features, playing on the Beskar horn that protruded from his head with captions such as - 'Monster', 'Demon' and the rest of it.

It never bothered him. Irveric proceeded toward the venue of the meeting with a frigid gaze painted over his jagged and abrasive features, the marks and wounds of war never faded from his features. He entered and sat himself adjacent to the retinues sent forth by the Galactic Alliance and the New Jedi Order, just as Jend-Ro Quill 's recording began. He arched a brow, listening intently. Throughout, he hardly altered his expression through the Jedi's sentiment.

As soon as it concluded he leaned forward in his seat, nodding once before he'd glance to the seat at the right of him. Empty, intentionally so. Held as such in honor of the late Tyrell Paxxus , the last to be Grand Vizier.

"I hoped I would be welcomed under more amicable circumstances but I believe it is understandable that any diplomatic proceedings between the New Imperial Order and the Galactic Alliance be met with scrutiny. Though the Master Jend-Ro Quill is not present, I do think it is of importance that I address some of the claims made in this recording. Firstly, throughout the many New Imperial operations against the overarching 'Sith Brotherhood', there are no incidence of which the New Imperial Order had ever commanded its military to fire upon non-combatants or Sith Acolytes under the age of common adulthood." He explains firstly.

"While incidents may have occurred, they were addressed as such in military tribunal, if the New Jedi Order wishes for these records to be released or wish to make inquiries into Operations 'Kyber Dark' and 'Harvest Dark' they may go through the proper channels and the information which we are willing to give, will be given. Though of course, as the Third Imperial Civil War is still an active conflict, we can not declassify all parameters of our operations. What you will find however, is that New Imperial rules of engagement in both Ravelin, Garang City and Dantooine proper forbade the killing of non combatants, with an iteration on evacuating all civilians they came across. But of course, this is all far less sensational. So too does the Codex of the Imperial Knights stress that force sensitive young be taken into their Order...no different than the Jedi. But this was no attempt to make understanding, this was an attempt to deepen divides, else I'm sure the Jedi Master would've come directly and inquired in person." Irveric iterates.

"Otherwise, now that we have advanced past the drivel, lets begin our business. Though once more, I welcome the scrutiny and criticism of the New Imperial Order by either party. I believe this may the proper first step in order, to build an understanding of what an agreement would entail, the conditions for maintaining it...and the conditions that would break it." The Sovereign Imperator states.

NIO | Caarlyle Rausgeber | Lucien Dooku
NJO | Ryv | Aaran Tafo | Aelys | Zaavik Perl | Auteme | Tom Kovack
GA | Adhira Chandra | Faith Organa

 

[Emmen Tagge]

Ryv | Auteme | Adhira Chandra | Irveric Tavlar

“Today's alliance talks are only the latest sign that the Dark Side of the Force has corrupted the decision-making of the Alliance and the New Jedi Order. I renounce my Galactic Alliance citizenship. I've resigned from the NJO privately and this is me doing it publicly. I won't be complicit--”​

The viewscreen showing news coverage of the Senate Plaza changes to black, cutting the Jedi Master’s words of criticism short. A sigh escapes Emmen as he leans back into the cushion of his couch and he pulls his half-filled drink closer to his chest. His fingers drum along the fine glass in a triplet rhythm as he contemplates what he had heard.

“Master Tagge, is everything alright?” A synthesized voice asks from behind him. Emmen casts a glance over his shoulder, just barely catching sight of the GG-series protocol droid looming a few meters behind him.

“That is a complicated question, G-Na,” he answers flatly, stirring the ice in his drink with a swirling motion of his hand. His eyes wander back to the screen, staring at his own reflection in the darkness of it. The scene he’d watched unfolding on it moments ago can't help but take him back his first meeting with representatives of the Republic and Silver Concord. Years ago, now.

The protests had been fierce. Their subject, similar.

Back then he’d been fighting to rebuild the galactic community. To pull the Core from its desolation and smother the embers that seemed so eager to light between the Empire-born Alliance and Corellian-led Republic. Things were very different now, yet in many ways they still felt the same. The Alliance – his dream – had grown mighty and vast, yet the galaxy felt no closer to the peace he’d hoped they’d achieve.

Taking a swig from his glass, Emmen recalls his own meeting with the Sovereign Imperator of the rebel empire. The day the Alliance’s war path was set into motion. It was out of necessity; he’d assured himself at the time. It was for a greater good.

Emmen had yet to see the good that was meant to come. Perhaps that was the burden of war. The two men had spoke of taking Bastion, and with it, victory. Many months had passed since their ships filled the fortress world’s sky and delivered long-awaited justice to their mutual enemy. That sense of victory had not yet come.

The fires of war had burned the Sith back to their ancient homeworld, but it was the scorched earth that weighed heavily on the old Tepasi’s mind. The feeling was not regret. Despite everything that had come since that day – the death and destruction – the feeling was not regret. Not quite.

Emmen draws a deep breath and closes his eyes, pushing the thoughts to the back of his mind until only one remains. Ryv Karis. The young, bold and ever-so-enthusiastic Jedi Knight he’d eagerly awarded with the Alliance’s first and highest honour: The Golden Starbird. The two had worked closely during Emmen’s tenure to scrub the tarnished reputation of the Jedi in the Core. While Ryv worked at inspiring a new generation of Jedi Knights, Emmen secured the federal funding and support needed to support the new and ambitious conclave – the New Jedi Order.

What horrors had the young man seen in all these years? What terrible things had he been forced to do? Emmen’s shoulders sag under the weight of the thoughts and he takes the final pull of his drink. With that, he sets the empty glass on the table in front of him and grabs hold of his cane, rising to his feet with a groan.

“Sir, I am programmed to be able to assist with a wide variety of emotional distre--” Emmen raises his hand to interrupt as he makes his way out of the room.

“That won’t be necessary, G-Na. Thank you.”

 

[Okkeus Dainlei]

Politics.

He never got into them much, up until a few months ago. Ever since the rumors of an Elder Compact spread around, he knew that he needed to get involved. Whether that meant actively-speaking, or simply watching from the side, he couldn't be getting the news secondhand. That was part of the reason he was here today.

Sitting towards the back of the room, he watched as many of the galaxies most famous faces entered the room - Chandra and Tavlar. Both legends in their work, he had never seen them in person before. Yet here they were. Some others he recognized were Auteme and Zaavik, who he had not seen for quite some time.

It was odd, being an Imperial Knight yet hanging out and socializing with members of the New Jedi Order. Being an Imperial Knight meant something much different to him back on Dantooine. His path was clouded with confusion. Hopefully the datapad entires he had been writing would guide him down the right path.

Another legend he saw was Lucien, a name that every Imperial knew. He had only heard stories about the man, and he began to realize how powerful the man was. To be honest, he was kind of scared of him.

As more and more faces piled entered the room, the councils decided to kick this off.

Tavlar began to clear up some of the misconceptions of Master Quill's message. He started to list off operations that he only heard whispers of, such as 'Kyber Dark'. Part of him wanted to know what happened, but the other part didn't.

Hopefully by the time this meeting was over he could have a better mindset about what he should do. A knight, yet to which order.

Irveric Tavlar | Lucien Dooku | Caarlyle Rausgeber | Auteme | Ryv | Zaavik Perl | Emmen Tagge | Aaran Tafo | Tom Kovack | Aelys | Faith Organa

 

[Eslo Anderson]

Eslo walked to steps of the Senate Building, he wondered if this was the right time to prepare an invasion of Dromund Kaas, when the alliance was forged between the Alliance and the Imperial Order. This had plagued him ever since he learned on Korriban that Darth Vird wanted the Sith Empire to himself, he had no idea what she would say.

 

[Tom Kovack]

Tom flinched away from the sparks as Lucien Dooku dramatically cut through the holoprojectors with his lightsaber. Bit unnecessary. Couldn't he have just flicked the off switch? If anything, cutting it down in so violent a manner only made it look like Jend-Ro Quill 's message had really gotten to him. Then there was Aelys a couple of rows in front of Tom, speaking to Ryv in mostly hushed tones. Tom did catch the phrase "Feth 'em" uttered with sharp conviction. Hm.

On the actual senate floor, he caught glimpses of Chancellor Adhira Chandra looking slightly queasy, Grand Admiral Caarlyle Rausgeber looking suspiciously spry (were all those Sith children the NIO had allegedly killed fueling his newfound youth? I'm sorry, I had to), and the Queen of Alderaan Faith Organa looking absolutely exhausted. Tom could sympathize.

Finally, someone bothered to actually address what the message had said. Imperator Irveric Tavlar himself was up to bat. Would it be a home run?...

... Eh. If anything, he raised more questions than he answered. There were declassified documents somewhere, and classified documents elsewhere, and it was giving Tom some serious flashbacks to when Casimir Heliobas had made the mistake of sending his letter about Elane of Kuat having sexual relations with a Dark Lord of the Sith during a Bryn'adul massacre to a then-not-as-powerful Chandra. That was back when Elane’s bastard brother (or was it her bastard cousin?) staged a coup on the grounds that she was unfit to rule, and Heliobas had foolishly tried to provide actual evidence for the delegates to consider. That fiasco had been Heliobas' fault for not understanding the situation better, and it hadn't been half as well-executed as Quill's simple yet elegant holographic recording anyway, but nearly everyone was reacting to it in much the same manner. With ignorance, scorn, and manipulation to serve their own ends. Politics were so terribly cynical. No wonder he needed extra dosages of levity every time he went to one of these types of meetings.

Tom really wanted to know what Quill's sources were. How did he hear about this purported infanticidal rampage? Did he have proof hidden up those threadbare robe sleeves? Tom wondered if there was somebody who could help him learn the truth. Maybe even someone in this very chamber. Someone obviously clutching a Solitude Stone and making a "concentration face" that looked more like they were constipated...

Auteme

 

[Ryv]

To no one's surprise, Ryv arrived with the Sovereign-Imperator's entourage. He scanned the many signs held above the crowd, his attention drawn to one of the cartoonish face of Irveric Tavlar. It looked as if the artist had scribbled on a twirling mustache and goatee, along with a few choice words, all of which he couldn't safely say in front of children. Ryv had grown accustomed to the galaxy's reaction to the Imperator. He stood at the head of an authoritarian regime capable of toppling a power decades older. His tactical genius was unmatched. People were scared of what he, a man forged within the fires of war, could do.

The common man feared what they did not understand. They hid away, whispering quietly amongst themselves, cursing the names of those who did what they could not. It wasn't just the New Empire they feared. No, the New Jedi Order stood apart from the norm all the same. Space wizards, warrior monks, warmongers, killers, monsters... the list went on. Ryv had heard it all. He'd been accused of so many sins when his sole-mission since taking up the saber was to bring peace to a war-torn galaxy. Everyone had an opinion. They all had something to say, to condemn those who fought the battle they were unwilling to fight.

"Ryv! Ryv!" a reporter called out to the Jedi Knight as he wandered past. "I just need one minute of your time!"

Ryv looked their way, his single visible eye screwed up in surprise. "Sure."

"We see you've arrived with the New Imperial Order's delegation today? Are the rumors true? Are you truly defecting to the Imperial Knights to swear service to the Sovereign-Imperator?"

The kiffar blinked. "No. We just arrived from the front. It was easier to hitch a ride with the General."

He fell away from the crowd, ignoring the dozen other times his name echoed behind him. They all had smiles plastered to their faces when they wanted his attention. How would they look when they curse his name and condemn him on the evening news? Probably no different.

Bandages covered nearly every inch of skin on Ryv's body. He was missing his iconic brown leather jacket, likely due to the state of his arm, splinted and slung up to keep it locked in place. It didn't take a genius to recognize the faint hitch in his steps each time he put any weight down on his right leg. Ziost beat the Jedi down, chewed him up, and spit him out a physically broken man. A shattered elbow, dislocated shoulder, broken wrist, fractured ribs, and an assortment of other lacerations, sprains, and bruising saw the Jedi Knight in a storm of physical pain, even as he dragged himself up the steps of the venue behind the Sovereign.

No matter how much they may have despised him, no one could call him weak. His determination and tenacity set him apart from any other Jedi in the galaxy. He was like tempered steel. Purposeful. Dangerous. A burning brand to his enemies, yet a brilliant fire to his allies. All words spoken by the legendary Jedi Grandmaster, Luke Skywalker. The ancient Jedi Master was right. From the moment Ryv took up the mantle of Sword, he'd lived a restless life. Peace eluded him. In his isolation, he fought on. For a day when everyone else would have the peace they so deserved.

He looked to Aelys, his Padawan. The Thyrsian's level-headed nature made it easier for the older Jedi Knight to keep his head straight, too. What kind of master would he be if he failed to do the bare minimum for his student?

"You know, the wisdom you show for someone your age is pretty cool," Ryv reached out and squeezed his apprentice's shoulder, returning the sheepish smile with the confident grin many had come to know. It didn't even register in the kiffar's mind the most Aelys could've seen was a faint shift beneath his bandaging. "The galaxy is... its a difficult place. Not everyone wants to fight back. Maybe it's fear, maybe its comfort, but for a lot of folks, it's easier to cry for help and damn the people who couldn't make it in time than stand up for themselves."

Ryv lifted his good arm, his cybernetics on full display to the room. "Part of being a Jedi is standing up for those people, protecting them. But I agree. We can't be everywhere at once. We can't fight a war for the galaxy, hands tied behind our back, and still bear the burdens of the countless people who call the stars home. There comes a time where you either stand up and fight or, like you said, live on your knees. Don't forget you have a choice, Aelys. Once you've let them take that away from you, well, life ain't worth a damn anymore."

He stepped away from the taller youth and took up his position at the table beside Auteme.

"Let them say as they would," Ryv spoke out after the Imperator's denouncement. "For years, the Sith Empire pillaged this galaxy beneath the fallen Emperor, Darth Carnifex. At any point, the Masters of this era could have come forward. They could have made a difference... but they didn't. They put the war in front of us," he motioned to himself, then waved in the direction of the New Jedi Order's delegation. "They asked children to fight this war. It's no surprise we've made mistakes. No one stuck around long enough to teach us what we were supposed to do."

He looked towards the New Jedi Order. His Jedi. All of them, Aaran, Zaavik, Auteme. Young adults thrust into a fight that predated them even back when they were teenagers. Where was Master Quill, the Hermit of Hoth, then? What of Romi Jade or Coren Starchaser? They were Ryv's heroes, just as they were many others within the New Jedi Order. How could they let ill-prepared children fight a war they walked away from?

"Even knowing that, people will still be held accountable. Jedi, Imperial, Alliance, you name it," Ryv unclipped his saber from his side and set it atop the table. "When the New Jedi Order was founded, my brethren chose to follow me. That means, no matter what happens, I will be held responsible for their actions. And if that means I'm gonna spend the rest of my life in a cell beneath Coruscant, forgotten by all but those closest to me? So be it, I don't care. My people, the Jedi, will be allowed a chance to seek help. We've all seen terrible things fighting this war. They will be given a chance to return to a normal life, away from the fighting and the death."

He looked across the room, meeting the gaze of anyone who looked his way. "I agree that investigations should be launched against our Order if that is what it takes to keep the peace. The Senate has already created a committee for Jedi oversight. Together, with the SIA, it shouldn't be difficult to uncover whatever corruption in the New Jedi Order people fear."

Ryv cleared his throat. "Now, if anyone has any further issues concerning Master Quill's proclamation, you are welcome to see Auteme and I after we finish here today," he motioned towards Tavlar. "The New Jedi Order has nothing else to say on the matter and will await Chancellor Chandra's opening remarks before proceeding."

New Jedi Order: Auteme | Tom Kovack | Aaran Tafo | Zaavik Perl | Aelys
New Imperial Order: Irveric Tavlar | Lucien Dooku | Caarlyle Rausgeber
Galactic Alliance: Adhira Chandra | Faith Organa
Other: Jend-Ro Quill | Okkeus Dainlei

 

[Enlil]

The King was unamused.

The spectacle from this unknown Jedi Master was intentionally placed in the eyes of the many. It not only detracted from their purpose, but it was incitement that in their territory, under their laws, he would not have overlooked. This was the heart of the Alliance, however. It fell to their leaders to deal with this situation. That did not mean he could not prompt action.

Enlil flanked Tavlar, standing behind the chair rather than taking a seat for himself. He took a step forward and cleared his throat. "Esteemed representatives of the Alliance," he smiled. "It is our honor to meet with you, as our combined efforts on the Sith Imperial warfront have brokered strong bonds between some of the finest warriors from both of our ranks. However, considering the affront to our noble effort," he gestured toward where Master Quill had appeared and dressed down the Jedi, "this situation sounds like the Jedi's dirty laundry, and as such, has no bearing on this discourse. It would be untoward to allow further communications from unaffiliated parties to air so freely, as they are incitement. Courscant has enough scars without lawless rogues stirring riots in her streets."

He spoke very clearly on this matter, and expected that their telecommunications staff strive to be better in the future with such things. "War is the final act of men who have exhausted all other options. In war, law is suspended. People fight and die for their beliefs. Children getting caught in the crossfire is a horror to be certain, but if the Sith do nothing to counteract their deaths, the best we can hope for is that they take initiative on their own to flee. The Imperial Mandate is the end of the Sith Empire, and the safety of our people. Should children endanger either of those pursuits, war does not discriminate based on age."

With his arms crossed, his ruby eyes moved over everyone gathered. "People assert that the New Imperials have a choice. They seem to have conveniently forgotten that the Sith do, as well."

He finished by gesturing to Tavlar.

"As the Sovereign Imperator says," he summarized, "let us waste nothing further on recalcitrance."

@GA
@NIO

 

[Julius Loghain]

NO CHURCH IN THE WILD​

To the surprise of many, Julius Loghain, Lord-Regent of Kuat, entered the meeting with the New Imperial delegation. It was a clear message - someone had to demonstrate a commitment to the cause of eradicating the plague of the Sith. The constant bickering at the Senate, the constant back and forth, whilst the galaxy burned were tiring. He was not an avid supporter of the New Imperial Order, contrary to popular belief and propaganda, but he could not not respect their diligence in ripping apart the tyranny of the Sith. Yet, if it wasn't the Senate bickering for what democracy was, it was the Jedi Order bickering what their tenets were.

All the while the shadow of the Sith eclipsed the galaxy.

But Julius Loghain knew one thing for certain - the only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.

War is evil but it also became necessary when all other options were exhausted. It was time for evil to fall, it was time for the good to prevail and forever be imprinted in the galactic history books as those that did not stand idly, as those that raged and raged against the endless night. Wars came with a toll, they always did, as a non-believer, he never fully grasped the monastic order of the Jedi. There is beauty in what is preached but the wild fabric reality never gives way to such luxuries. It will take everything from you and give you no respite.

There was, after all, no church in the wild.

He shifted away from the New Imperial delegation to find his seat beside the leadership of the Galactic Alliance.

@GA
@NIO
@NJO

 

[Caarlyle Rausgeber]

New Imperials: Irveric Tavlar | Enlil | Lucien Dooku | Okkeus Dainlei
Galactic Alliance: Emmen Tagge | Julius Loghain | Aerarii Tithe | Adhira Chandra
New Jedi: @Auteme| Ryv | Tom Kovack | Aelys
Neutral: Jend-Ro Quill

Carlyle sat silently as he contemplated the hologram. A visible, derisive scowl parched itself upon his features as his eyes shot daggers at it. He was relieved when his colleague and political ally, Lucien Dooku was rid of such a display of petulance. Although the symbolism was perhaps not the most... Tactful. Particularly given the imperial attitudes toward Jedi. But he would raise no such thing now at least. Instead, Rausgeber watched as his lord, Irveric Tavlar made his speech. It was a fine one. An offer of transparency. This was then followed by the High King Enlil. In a brief, yet rather blunt address. Although he conceded it could have been a little more delicately put.

"If I may," Rausgeber rose from his seat, and looked at his own delegation, and then that of the Alliance, and finally the New Jedi. "I believe that the Grand Master, through his broadcast in absentia does make a fine point." He then paused, "About his own narcissism and weakness." Time for the sabre rattle. "He has, much like those Jedi who defended the Sith on Dantooine, forgotten the nature of the Zambrano. A clan of tyrants and lecherers whose corrupt influence has plunged our Galaxy into chaos and death for decades." Rausgeber paused, his gaze passing over the entirety of the assembly, "Need we forget Thyferra, the planet he ravaged belonging to your predecessors?" Carlyle inquired, "Or the scourging of Mandalore? Or the systematic destruction of countless civilisation by he and his broods hands?" Carlyle scoffed, "Let us remind the Galaxy, that while the spectre of civilian casualties haunts us all. We are of honour." He planted a fist to his chest in defiance, "We are of strength to realise these tragedies, and we rectify them."

"But they? The Zambranos are an ilk who lack no such self-awareness!" Rausgeber snarled, "Such conduct, and only ever seem to put propaganda crews in the aftermath. A cynical attempt to keep those they enslave with their lies and concubines in line. Nary a medic or relief worker in sight!" Carlyle glowered before pausing, and seemed to now address the New Jedi contingent at the negotiation table, almost warning them with his venomous glare, "The tyranny of the Zambrano clan is so great that he and his depraved Empire have compromised others. Like the Silvers and Confederate enterprise into a craven alliance which has tried to stem the flow of blood from his own lands." Carlyle paused, "I only propose, that this Quill figure lack what is necessary in character to be able to realise this fact. And hope that those opposite," He gestured over the table, "Are of superior moral fibre."

He licked his crackled lips and straightened his posture, "This pact of kyber, the Sovereign Imperator," An arm gestured to Tavlar, and then to the Chancellor opposite, "And your Supreme Chancellor is the first ever alliance of this sort since Pellaeon and Sovv forged an forward and rid our Galaxy of the terror of the Yuuzhan Vong." Carlyle pronounced, "Because the threat we face is just that in our time. Who knows how deep the Sith influence in Confederacy or Silver Jed run? The Sith are an eternal scourge who must be hunted down. And where this war against the Sith may be prosecuted next."

"Which is why, I would consider it an honour, and my privilege to serve in formalising such a treaty." Carlyle gave a nod to the floor.

"Thank you."