Faction You're Gonna Love Tomorrow | First Order

[Natasi Fortan]

D O S U U N
​

To say that Natasi Fortan was disappointed would be an understatement, and it showed.

Here, as she climbed the front steps of the Imperial Palace, she didn’t need to force a smile for the cameras. Flanked as she was by a cadre of Royal Guards and an honor guard of army troopers, she had a face like thunder and no one cared -- least of all the Supreme Leader herself -- to hide it.

She’d had hope: hope that she could place the sacred duty of caring for and governing the people of the First Order with another. She could see that hope was a childish thing. She was mortified to have been suckered by it. Natasi could feel her heart hardening even as she reached the doors to the palace, which were swept open for her entry. The army troopers stopped at the top of the steps, but the Royal Guards continued on with her. Theodore Glass was waiting in the cavernous entry lobby with a datapad. He bowed from the neck as Natasi approached, but she didn’t stop as she reached him, and he fell in line beside her, opposite Dyrn Grav’s placement.

“What’s our status?” she demanded as they turned into a security corridor. “Anything on the defense front?”

“No, Your Majesty,” said Glass. “It’s been quiet. High Command is standing by for orders.”

Natasi nodded curtly and stepped into the turbolift. It wasn’t large enough to fit all of them, but it easily accommodated the Supreme Leader, Captain Grav, and Glass. “Alert all commands to defense condition one. I want high alert until we’re able to determine any last minute orders that were issued prior to the Grand Moff’s resignation. And alert the General Ministry to go to continuity of government level three.”

This would signal for the military to be at maximum readiness and prepare for an immediate response, while certain key government officials and civil servants critical to the continuity of government services were required to notify the General Ministry of their location. “Very good, Your Majesty. I’ve transmitted those orders.”

“I want the Cabinet -- or what’s left of it -- in the conference room as soon as possible. Sub-cabinet as well -- Director level. Gannan, Shepard, Colonel Amsel, someone from the First Imperial Knights. Whatever individuals are appropriate from the armed forces -- I’ll leave that up to Gannan.” Natasi pinched the bridge of her nose lightly, returning to a thoughtful silence as the turbolift rocketed through the building. “Just get everyone in. An hour should be sufficient time for locals. Anyone else can attend remotely.”

“Yes, ma’am,” said Glass. “I’ll see to it.” The doors opened and Natasi strolled out of the turbolift. “Ah, has Your Majesty given any thought as to the Grand Moff’s replacement?”

Natasi inclined her head, gazing at the imposing crimson First Order banner that hung over the entrance to the executive offices. An enigmatic half-smile crossed her lips before she said: “That won’t be necessary, Mr. Glass. I am in command here. Until such a time that there is someone in government I can trust with the well-being of my people -- as implicitly as I trust myself -- I will not appoint a new Grand Moff. But by all means, show me to the Grand Moff’s office and I’ll see about getting myself up to speed with what she was doing.”

Glass’ eyes widened, but he nodded thoughtfully. “This way, ma’am.”

Natasi followed him, glancing at her wristwatch. When they arrived at the general ministry offices, the Supreme Leader dismissed Glass. “You’ll come for me if I’m not there when the others arrive?” Glass agreed, leaving Natasi to her task.

When they were alone in the office, Natasi went to the desk and pulled the chair out. The office was not dissimilar to the one she had occupied as Grand Moff in her glory days. She took a seat in the chair and sighed, then reached over and turned the computer on, the pressed the intercom down. “Bring me the Grand Moff’s dispatch boxes for the last two days.” Natasi looked up at Dyrn and sighed. “The problem,” she said with an apologetic smile, “is one thinks one has time.”

 

[Rolf Amsel]

Dosuun, Imperial Palace
Uniform of the Day: Dress
-

Stubble had begun to settle in on the Lt. Colonel's face. A more distinguished look. Or so he told himself. Gone was the youthful shave he'd sported along with the mid-length hair. These days he opted for a shorter cut on top. Rolf had come a long way since his days as a Sergeant in the Stormtrooper Corps, so had the First Order. Times had changed drastically, sometimes however he still preferred to handle things in the 'old manner' as some might say. There were numerous excuses he could have used to attend this meeting remotely. The 9th was on patrol near the very edge of First Order space in the Unknown Regions. The 9th wasn't ready to be left to their own devices. A logistical waste of resources. The list went on. Despite that he had dutifully boarded the shuttle and made his way to Dosuun.

As he took the stairs of the Imperial Palace he paused, the gleaming white of his dress uniform shining in the sunlight as he took in the view of Avalonia. It was familiar and yet the landscape had changed. Buildings now occupied space that had previously been garden, blotches of sky were not blocked by new development and even some of the old buildings now gave way to open horizon. As things change, so things remain the same. Taking a breath he turned, once again rising up the steps of the palace until he was across its threshold.

Security was tight, his code cylinders carefully inspected, data pad scanned and re-scanned. Even a physical pat down despite the form fitting dress uniform he wore. It was to be expected he supposed. Whenever a high profile figure vacated a seat of power or an official stepped down things tended to get a little bit more stiff necked. Given the position was the Grand Moffery, he couldn't say he was surprised. It was still strange for the man to think of Natasi Fortan as the Supreme Leader but as he considered it again there was truly no better alternative. She was capable, if a bit of an idealist. Of course Rolf couldn't claim to be entirely objective on the matter, jaded as he was.

Accepting back his belongings, Rolf's feet guided him towards a bank of turbolifts. He'd find out exactly what this meeting was about soon enough, there was no sense in speculating. Even so, he'd prepared his own reports on the 9th and their activities just in case. It never hurt to be prepared.

Natasi Fortan | Dyrn Grav ​

 

[Matma Bernu]

​

Ser Matma Bernu strode purposefully towards the Palace, looming over the city-scape. It had been a tumultuous time- the Grand Moff, Ariel Yvarro, had vanished mere weeks after the declaration of Pax Imperialis. Coupled with omnious reports of the Brotherhood of the Maw moving toward Csill, things were more tense throughout First Order space then ever before. Consequently, when senior leadership was recalled, it was communicated that attendance was expected, and in person attendance if said leadership was local. Being that Knight-Commander Marionne Roule had fallen in battle, seniority fell to Matma.

And so he did his duty, albeit grudgingly. His wife and children, his father and mother- all had been helping to various extended family to evacuate Csilla, being that the Chiss homeworld was directly in the invasion corridor of the NIO. He'd desperately wanted to be be there, but the directive was clear.

It didn't stop him from worrying about them, though.

"Sir? Sir?" Matma snapped out of his reverie, glowing red eyes focusing on the Royal Guard. To his credit, he didn't flinch before continuing on. "We'll need to confiscate that from you", he said, motioning to the lightsaber dangling from his hip.

Matma schooled his facial expression into a blank look. "A Knight shall never willingly surrender his blade." The Guard opened his mouth- perhaps to clearly articulate the protocols, most likely at the end of a blaster- when he froze. He stood, petrified and terrified, as the Chiss moved closer to him until they were nose to nose.

"A Knight shall never willingly surrender his blade. This is not up for debate. I have been summoned by the Supreme Leader herself. Do not make me have this conversation with you again." With a wave, Matma released his hold on the guard, and continuing striding toward the conference room, leading a throughly confused and terrified guard in his wake.

Natasi Fortan | Dyrn Grav | Rolf Amsel

 

[Roudac Gannan]

IMPERIAL PALACE
EN ROUTE TO CONFERENCE ROOMS

There wasn't much that could irritate Allegiant General Gannan. But sudden changes in leadership was up there. The communication about the retirement of the Grand Moff had been something of a surprise, sudden as it was, and the result of required protocols to safeguard the Government and First Order as a whole meant complexities that weren't needed - or wanted - at such a juncture in time.

Or any time, really.

Still, it was what it was. The Supreme Leader had called for a gathering of the highest echelons of the administration, which was standard for such an event, and it promised to be a long day. There had been more recent developments on the military front, with further reports of yet another missing patrol in the region beyond First Order influence, and that had been Gannan's primary concern.

Until now.

Now, it was to meet with the structural leadership of Government, and make sure the course of the First Order was maintained in the departure of a Grand Moff who had gained a high degree of control of the political body. While few said anything, there had been some underlying suspicion on Gannan's side, as to the subversion of the Supreme Leader's power when it came to command of the First Order. It wasn't uncommon, per se, for figureheads to be something of public puppets for the masses for public relations reasons... but when you sidelined a leader like Natasi Fortan, of all people, it raised concerns.

Just the sheer experience the Galidraani woman had warranted an active presence in First Order affairs.

Doesn't matter now, Gannan thought as he stomped through the corridors of the palace, eyes down as he scanned the latest scouting reports. I'm sure she's going to remedy all that. If I know anything about her, it's that Fortan is not the type to be put in the corner.

The Allegiant General paused, as his entourage of commander and guards slowed to a stop around him. He glanced ahead, saw a turbolift door, and assumed it was time to wait for it to arrive. In the meantime, the tall military leader had more than enough to occupy his thoughts, as he began to analyze the limited data from the latest patrol deployment - which was to say, there wasn't much. Disturbingly little, truth be told, and it was a growing concern that Gannan felt needed to be addressed.

Sooner, rather than later.

And a meeting with a bunch of leadership seems appropriate a time as any.

Natasi Fortan | Rolf Amsel | Matma Bernu | The Major​

 

[Delilah Graham]

IMPERIAL PALACE
CONFERENCE ROOM

It had been a short jaunt from Delilah's office in the Imperial Palace to the conference room, so she was one of the first to arrive.

She had taken to using her office in the Imperial Palace since it had been offered to her. The complex was a bastion of security, so she was reasonably confident in her ability to work without being interrupted by rogue agents pushing in or worse. The fact that Cierrol Harlow had managed to breach her home and her office was troubling to say the least, so having a place to retreat to was a comfort, at least until she decided just how the bastard was managing to best her security measures.

The resignation of the Grand Moff had come as a surprise to Delilah. The younger woman was ostensibly retiring to focus on her daughter. Delilah had no children and wanted none, but she quite understood the maternal instinct. It was admirable, in her estimation, but it was a complication. Natasi Fortan was a different animal to her cousin, and she suspected things were going to change around here. For people like Delilah Graham, people who operated in shadows, in legal, ethical, and moral grey areas, the presence of someone who was propagandized to be an absolutist on moral terms was... daunting.

Still, she considered as she helped herself to a glass of water from the sideboard, perhaps the propaganda wasn't all it was cracked up to be. Time would tell just what they were in for.

Roudac Gannan | Rolf Amsel | Matma Bernu | The Major | Vakim Duval | Adrian Cassidy​

 

[Vakim Duval]

Location: Dosuun, Imperial Conference Rooms
Equipment: Imperial Order Dress Unifrom, Various Frontline decorations and medals, no weapons
With: First Order Military Command and Government
​

Dosuun made Vakim Duval uncomfortable. The entire planet seemed to outrank him. He straightened his Lieutenant designation somewhat clumsily as he strode into the Conference Rooms and took a seat beside the other military personnel that had begun to trickle into the proceedings. He even had a nameplate and assigned seat. A surprising honor. One Duval appreciated it as it allowed him to avoid the clumsy exchange of seat politics. No doubt members of the Imperial staff had spent hours deciding who would sit where. No doubt they got paid more than he did to do it. Regardless, The Supreme Leader herself had summoned Vakim to Dosuun. So here, outranked and uncomfortable he sat. As he waited he reflected on the moments that brought him here.

The fall and rebuild of this Imperial Order. The recapture of Dosuun. The taking back of Seoul. The work of the 12th on the Nest, at Alpinn, and Baralou. The casualties had been large on some of the missions, the Resurgence, and the taming of the Red Nebula had been a particularly troubling mission, one Duval had barely survived. Barely could remember. The lives lost. The Planets were brought back into the First Order. The slow but dominant spread of Law and Order throughout this corner of the galaxy and at the tip of that movement was Duval and the 12th Storm Platoon. He was proud of the men he had. The lives given had not been given in vain. Even some of the replacements had by now proven their stripes on places like Sump. Where were the Ssi-Ruu? Gone. The First Order had remained. They had weathered all the storms thrown their way and emerged once again. Stronger.

The resignation of the Grand Moff had surprised many of the Stormtroopers within Duval's platoon, but it did not change their mission. It did not change their goals or their jobs. The Stormtrooper corp remained committed now as ever to the entirety of the First Order and to the mission of spreading law and order throughout the galaxy. By strict discipline and adherence to orders of the direct superiors above them, the Corp could function very well in the field regardless of the changes at the top. Getting the troops to the field, supplied, and on time, that was a separate issue. Hopefully, at some point in this meeting, one of the higher-ups would get to that and issue a pay raise for the Corp, but Duval doubted it. No, the Lieutenant was doomed to sit here and listen to his leaders discuss his men's issues without being expected to contribute no doubt. Nobody expected politics from a man of his rank.

 

[Jaida Tess]

​

Jaida looked at the chrono hanging on the wall of her quarters and let out a frustrated sigh. She hated being late or falling behind a preformed schedule. But of course, on this day when the elite TIE fighter pilot was supposed to already be at the Imperial Palace for an awards promotion ceremony, her CAP duty got extended two fraking hours because someone overslept and didn't relieve her on time. They no doubt would be paying a hefty price for that mistake.

The Dosuunian ran an urgent brush through her long golden hair, then pulled it back into a neat bun at the back of her head. After inserting one last bobby pin to hold it in place, Jaybird pulled her dress uniform tunic adorned with various medals and mission ribbons off the hangar and slipped it on. A quick roll of a lint brush over the military attire, then out the barracks door she went.

Black Eleven handed the hover taxi driver a credit chit with a nice tip included for his expeditious driving thinking all the while perhaps he'd been a starfighter pilot in another life as his evasive maneuvers were almost as good as hers. Anyway, he'd gotten the flight officer to her destination with a couple of minutes to spare with no casualties to report in transit; just a few middle fingers held up in the air of note.

The tall blonde made her way into the Imperial Palace with purposeful strides to the turbolift. It would directly take her to the floor where the ceremony was taking place.

A tug was given to the hem of her black Starfighter Corps uniform top just as the turbolift doors were opening. Jaida took a deep breath and squared her shoulders, chin up, then exited the lift and walked into the conference room; her steely blue gaze taking in those in attendance.

So many big wigs... I bet Mom is here in spirit watching.

Natasi Fortan | Rolf Amsel | Roudac Gannan | Delilah Graham | Vakim Duval | Matma Bernu


​

 

[Arianna Sarreti]

​

The young Sarreti had never been to the Imperial Palace or the massive complex surrounding it before. Yes, the Coruscanti born had seen the majestic beauty and projection of Imperial power as the structure was a prominent feature upon the Avalonia skyline, but never up close nor the inside. This would be a treat for the lowly novice.

The senior First Imperial Knight Arianna was trailing as they walked towards their destination was sure hell-bent on getting there. She could barely keep up with his purposeful long strides. The Chiss was seemingly under enormous pressure these days. Well, who wasn't affected in some way somehow with what all had recently occurred within the First Order and abroad. It did though appear to be hitting him much harder than the rest, at least in her opinion. Which one could understand given the circumstances, but there was still a worry it was more than that as noted by him snapping so harshly at the security guard just doing his duty regarding the lightsaber on the Imperial Knight's person when weapons were not allowed for others. But, Master Bernu did have a point: A Knight shall never willingly surrender his blade.

Intending to follow that mantra spoken by the master knight, Arianna just shrugged her shoulders at the poor guard while flashing him an apologetic smile, then she followed Matma Bernu into the conference room to join the other First Imperial Knights present for the ceremony.

The dark-haired Novice felt a bit in awe of everything going on being this was her first big doings as an Imperial Knight. One didn't necessarily need the Force to sense the nervous excitement, self-reflection, and anticipation in the air of things to come for those deserving... It was palpable.

Jaida Tess | Roudac Gannan | Delilah Graham | Vakim Duval | Natasi Fortan | Rolf Amsel​

​

 

[Crix Helsing]

- - -

​

New guy to the unit, short end of the stick. A tale as old as time. That said, it wasn't the worst detail the TIE pilot had ever been on. Not even close to cleaning out a garbage compactor. It was a smell one couldn't forget. Crix's attention was drawn by another smell, that of fresh coffee as a concierge droid idled by towards the conference room. "I guess that means it's about to start. Let's go." The pilot nodded at the other two junior pilots that had also been tasked to the working party. Shrugging his shoulders and standing up straight he headed towards the conference room.

It's not even a working party. When he'd received the orders it specified that they were to "Attend a formal ceremony". The brass probably just wanted to make sure there was a good showing. It was the way of the world. Or at least, their world. Volunteer or you're voluntold. Despite the humor he found in it, the TIE Pilot kept a blank expression on his face as they entered the far end of the conference room and took stock of the room. A lot of faces he didn't recognize except from holo-stills but one stuck out to him as a fellow pilot. A senior pilot at that. Could be the boss for all I know. He'd hardly gotten his gear into his locker before this tasking so he had yet to officially meet his cadre. Giving his uniform a final brush down he scanned the room with his eyes, noticing the Black Squadron insignia on a woman's uniform. At least he wasn't alone. Good a place as any to start.

Taking steps in the woman's direction he cleared his throat so as not to sneak up on her. "Ma'am." Crix introduced, extending his hand. "Crix Helsing. Just assigned to Black Squadron."

Jaida Tess​

 

[Jaida Tess]

Jaida stifled the beginnings of a yawn with her hand putting a finger to her mouth as in thought. If things would have gone to plan, she would have stopped off to get an expresso and maybe a muffin at her favorite café a couple of blocks from the Imperial Palace as one could only stomach so many ration bars, but no... running late had nipped that idea right smartly. Now the TIE pilot was in desperate need of some caffeine and something to tame the wild beast trying to growl in her empty tummy.

Oh well... I've been in worse situations and survived. This shindig shouldn't take too long, hopefully, the blonde mused to herself.

There was a clearing of the throat off to her side. Jaida turned her golden head to spot another pilot coming towards her... one who was working at the party it seemed? Ah, yes she remembered those days earlier in her career being volunteered to do this or that for PR things. Fun, fun, fun... not.

Black Eleven took the offered hand from Crix Helsing and gave it a firm shake followed by a friendly nod. " Jaida Tess. Nice to meet you. Oh really... Seems only those in the need to know, know. I guess I wasn't in the need to know on this one," Jay replied with a small smirk flickering at the corner of her mouth.

"Where do you hail from?"

Natasi Fortan | Rolf Amsel | Roudac Gannan | Delilah Graham | Vakim Duval | Matma Bernu


​

 

[Crix Helsing]

- - -
​

Jaida Tess. Crix filed that away - never knew when it might come in handy, or when they'd bump elbows once the regular operations cycle started. "It was pretty last minute, I guess command must know something we don't." It wasn't unusual for last minute assignments to be made however, given the uneasy state of the galaxy it wasn't too much of a stretch to assume they wanted to bolster their elite pilot complement. Whether or not Crix would pass muster was yet to be seen. "Bespin, actually. I've been on Dosuun for a while now though. Since I was a little one." Flagging down a concierge droid he motioned towards a cup of steaming caf. "Care for one?" he offered.

Sipping his own, he looked around the room again. More people had filtered in and it seemed like things were going to get underway soon. "I'll leave the shop talk for later, but what tips might a veteran like yourself have for us fledgling nuggets?" he chuckled. He was under no false impression that life as part of Black Squadron was going to be easy. If he had, he'd have just as soon been flying transports. He wanted the challenge - and in the flight academy, earned it.

Jaida Tess​

 

[Dyrn Grav]

THEN​

There had been abrupt changes in the proceedings for the day. It had been unexpected, but thankfully there was no need for sudden security adjustments, as the situation involved returning to the Imperial Palace. Other plans for the Supreme Leader's agenda had been halted, and the Royal Guard rerouted per the Guard Captain's orders to attend within the Palace itself. Prior to the arrival of Lady Fortan, the other members of the elite protective unit took up positions to the front of the grand structure, eyes on the crowds, and prepared for the arrival of the convoy.

Dyrn - in his Royal Guard attire - was first out the door, and he remained to the Supreme Leader's right side within arms reach, as they proceeded to make the traversal to the Imperial Palace proper. The remaining members of the Royal Guard followed in their wake, and before long all were within the relative safety of the Palace, before the guard were sent outward to secure more corridors and passageways. They were used to this, it was what they trained for, and being presented with the unknown or sudden changes to plans was not uncommon for them - adapt or die, as it were.

Nonetheless, Dyrn remained silent, as Lady Fortan discussed the situation with Glass.

NOW​

As the turbolift door opened, Dyrn stepped out and looked throughout the area. The Ministry Office was empty. As the Supreme Leader dismissed the secretary, the Guardsman assumed a position near the entryway, so as to be able to intercept any who arrived. He turned his helmeted head toward Lady Fortan as she sat behind the desk and spoke to him.

<"It always seems the way, yes,"> He said through the vocalizer on his helmet. <"An interesting detour for the day, hm?">

Lady Fortan likely could tell that tone, and the faint smirk Dyrn had beneath the head protection. It also didn't take long for the dispatch boxes to arrive, as the turbolift activated and personnel appeared from within as the doors opened, boxes in hand. The Guardsman remained unmoving, though his eyes watched the sentient who stepped into the office carefully. Dyrn's hands - hidden beneath his draped cloak - were placed on his holstered pistol grip and the other holding the retracted electro-staff in preparation for sudden threat.

Hopefully there were no questionable missives given in the last several days...

Natasi Fortan​

 

[Jaida Tess]

"Cloud City, hmm... I've never been there, but I hear they have a couple of good bars," Jaida chuckled lightly. "I'm from here, Avalonia, well the old city before the sacking... Being a TIE fighter pilot runs in my blood," she offered those details up briefly to Crix Helsing, killing time with idle chit chat as they awaited the ceremony to start.

Gods how these things always seemed like a waste of time when one could be training, getting chow, or catching much-needed extra rack time.

"Oh yes, please. Caffeine is my vice I'm afraid or more accurate my lifeline to maintaining some sense of sanity," the blonde replied as the concierge droid extended its tray with cups of steaming caf upon it. The flight officer took one eagerly, lifting the rim to her balmed lips, blowing momentarily on the dark liquid before taking a sip.

"My suggestion is to be diligent in all you do," Tess simply said sagely, then she took another sip of the hot drink, relishing in the stimulant already beginning to rush through her veins.

Ahh, the elixer of life.

Natasi Fortan | Rolf Amsel | Roudac Gannan | Delilah Graham | Vakim Duval | Matma Bernu


​

 

[The Major]

IMPERIAL PALACE
CONFERENCE ROOM

​

Manifesting like a crooked stranger’s shadow at home or a churlish hangover that started pushing on the brain before the night was properly started, was Director Shepard. From whence she appeared was anyone’s guess —from passages and alleys tightly oozing in secret or otherwise forgotten. It didn’t matter. The Bureau had been quietly working after some initial reclamation efforts earlier in the year, slowly diminishing in light of better personnel going to better places both within and without Her Majesty’s First Order.

Sybil had arrived, or rather, had survived and made it to the conference room for another monumental meeting during idle and difficult times for the galaxy. Really, Shepard proved to be a rather relentless but otherwise redundant, inoffensive specter moving amongst the quagmire of those who actually lived, loved, fought, and thought. Perhaps this wasn’t all too bad.

She entered the room solemnly, greeting neither comrade or stranger and dressed in nondescript Order uniform —quietly shuffling over to the only other member of the 9th fleet present.

Roudac Gannan | Rolf Amsel | Matma Bernu | Delilah Graham | Vakim Duval | Adrian Cassidy​

 

[Natasi Fortan]

​

While the other attendees were coming in from around the city, Natasi raced through the dispatch box as quickly as she could without missing details. After she finished, just shy of an hour later, she sat back from the table and leaned against the chair. "Nothing out of the ordinary," she told Dyrn after a moment, her voice dull and impassive. She stood and went to the sideboard, pouring herself a cup of water which she splashed on her face before patting her face dry with a kerchief.

Thus refreshed, she glanced at her wristwatch and turned back towards the door. "Showtime," she informed Dyrn. Natasi smoothed her skirt and then shrugged back into her blazer, the stooped to pick up her patent leather handbag. She carefully looped her left arm through it and flexed it carefully before picking up her folio with her other arm walking purposefully to the door. She emerged into the outer office where Glass entered the entourage, then into the corridor, and then to the conference room. The honor guards at the door snapped to attention and then pushed the doors open to admit Natasi, Dyrn, and Glass.

"Good morning," Natasi announced to the group as she rounded the table, moving to take the center seat at the conference table. Slightly larger than the others at the back and shoulders, the chair was ordinarily reserved for the Grand Moff. "Please take your seats. If you prefer to stand, there is space along the walls." She took her position and spread the folio in front of her as she waited for people to take their seats, then cleared her throat and glanced around the room. "We have a lot to get through, so let's begin. You'll notice we have a slightly broader audience than would otherwise be present, but I can assure you there is no one here who is not authorized to hear what I plan to discuss."

She paused a moment and straightened her back. "As some of you may be aware, Grand Moff Yvarro has resigned her position in order to focus her attentions to the worthy task of raising her daughter. She is to be thanked and commended for her service and the dedication she showed in bringing the First Order back from the darkness. Much of what we have achieved in the last few years has been because of her efforts, and therefore she has the thanks of a grateful nation. Further honors will be determined at a later date."

She unscrewed the pen in front of her and set the lid to one side, making a neat tick to the left of a bullet on her handwritten agenda. "Although of course the Grand Moff leaves in good standing, effective at the moment of her resignation, she is no longer a part of the First Order Government, nor is she a Privy Councilor or Counselor of State, and all information and operational security measures must be observed. Any documentation, intelligence, directives, and government business that were in the process to be submitted to the Grand Moff's office may be routed through the General Ministry."

Natasi made another neat tick, then inclined her head and surveyed the room. "Until such time as I see fit to appoint a new Grand Moff, I will exercise my royal prerogative as Head of State and Head of Government. Functionally, very little will change for the majority of government departments, except that I will be present at Cabinet meetings and lead policy decisions for this government. I'll pause here for questions. Home Secretary? Allegiant General? Director Shepard?" Her gaze swept the room to the senior staff gathered around the table. "Doctor Sol-Syna? Ser Bernu? Lieutenant Colonel Amsel? If you have concerns, now is the moment."

Roudac Gannan | Dyrn Grav | Boo Heavenshield | Matma Bernu | Rolf Amsel | The Major
Vakim Duval | Adrian Cassidy | Jaida Tess | Crix Helsing | Arianna Sarreti | Delilah Graham​

 

[Crix Helsing]

- - -

​

Crix cracked a wide smile. "You could say that - the night life is very active. Maybe we'll catch a break one of these days." He raised an eyebrow. "Avalonia - that's.." a shade of solemn gripped the pilot. The battle of Dosuun had been a critical learning point for the Starfighter Corps, engaging an enemy who approached combat with an unconventional approach. Not only that but the material and personnel losses had been significant. Crix hadn't had a chance to see much of Avalonia properly but from what he knew it appeared to be rebounding pretty well. "Avalonia is made up of strong people." he stated, a hint of admiration in his voice.

Lifting his own acquired mug he raised it a moment before sipping at the obsidian liquid inside. Caf was a linchpin of Starfighter Corps operation. So much so that Command had even had to draft up a regulation forbidding personal caf dispensers being installed in cockpits. It really should have been a no brainer but that didn't mean some industrious pilots had tried - or succeeded in doing so. Rumor was some legend of a pilot had once converted their BB unit droid into a mobile mini-bar. "Sanity?" he chuckled. "We're all mad here." he finished, grinning. You almost had to be a little off to join the Starfighter Corps. Nothing like cramming into a small tin can in the void of space, a thin hull of durasteel and transparisteel the only protection from the void. It was life on the edge, and Crix loved it.

He nodded at Jaida's advice. Diligence. It was one of the key qualities emphasized by the various leadership courses he'd traversed to get where he was today. Without that, he'd no doubt ended up as a supply pilot. Eugh. "Here we go." he nodded as the Supreme Leader entered the room. Immediately his posture assumed a more rigid demeanor. Shuffling to his assigned spot, he stood and waited.

Jaida Tess​

 

[Rolf Amsel]

Dosuun, Imperial Palace
Uniform of the Day: Dress
-

Rolf had arrived with little to-do, floating into the room and quietly assuming a position near the oversized conference table - of course it was eclipsed by the room itself but even that didn't do much to belay the fact of its sheer size. Numerous persons had already arrived, collected in small cadres around the room. Military. Political wing. Civilians. Lots of variety thought Rolf. Whatever the Supreme Leader had planned must have been significant. He had his own suspicions about the purpose and direction of the meeting but he'd leave those assumptions lie until realized. Absentmindedly he pressed his fingers against the fabric of his uniform, seeking the small flask which he'd intentionally left in his quarters. Drat.

While he waited for the meeting to begin he observed, silently taking in the conversations around him. It was one thing he'd only gotten better at over time. It's not eavesdropping, right? There aren't even any eaves to be dropped. The thought brought a smirk to the corner of his lips. Intelligence gathering. That's what it was. As he overheard a few words between two pilots nearby he noted the arrival of a familiar shadow. Not looking nor adjusting his gaze he spoke quietly. "Ah, Sybil. Quiet as ever. Apologies about the short notice, glad to have your eyes and ears on this though." Rolf had always touted the company line, always followed orders, always done what needed to be done but time at the top had tempered his motivations. There were no politics in the First Order, at least not on the surface but as always there was politicking. His eyes had been opened to that in the final days of the First Order. The acquisition of Sybil Shepard as his de-facto XO had been fortunate. Another added layer of security not only for the First Order but for the 9th Imperial Battlegroup - another set of seasoned eyes on the inner workings of the First Order.

"I guess we'll find out what this is about shortly." his eyes fell on the entrance to the room, a nod in their direction. Moving towards a chair he pulled one out for the Major before he too took a seat in sync with the Supreme Leader. As she spoke, he listened. It seemed fairly run of the mill, cover the bases type information but security was mentioned and that caused him some concern. Rolf himself had never had much interaction with the Grand Moff so he was largely unsure as to what specifically those security clearances looked like. That said, he knew there would be a massive shuffle as all the standard access and process would adjust as was warranted after a high profile vacancy like this. When prompted he waited a moment before standing, eyes falling across those in the room.

"Your excellency." he began. Rolf had to find the words. "As you know, the Ninth operates with significant latitude along our frontier border. Will this new vacancy have any effect on that directive?" It was unlikely, however Rolf knew the dangers of assuming all too well.

The Major | Natasi Fortan​

 

[Roudac Gannan]

IMPERIAL PALACE
CONFERENCE ROOM

Roudac strode into the conference room, moments before the Supreme Leader, his own small entourage close behind. He cast a quick look around the space, saw a number of individuals, and ensured to nod to each one as he walked around the table to his placement. He noted the pair of pilots that spoke quietly to one another, noted several commanders in the Stormtrooper Corp, and the subtle presence of the FOSB Director. There were others, but by that time Roudac had reached his chair and assumed a seat.

One of his assistants leaned close and began placing documents and datafile chips in front of the Allegiant General. He, in turn, nodded and spoke lowly, to clarify information and prepare his notes for when discussion opened to other business. There were several topics to discuss, each of varying clearance level, and with the broader presence of personnel, Roudac thought it would be prudent to handle the less public reporting once some other items had been ticked off.

When the Supreme Leader appeared, flanked by guards and her secretary, Gannan stood. He waited until Fortan took her seat, then resumed his own, as he saw others approach and likewise sit down for the conference. It began fairly routinely - or as routinely as it could, given the circumstances - and assurance was made by the leader of the First Order that all present had permission for eyes and ears. Good enough. That meant there was no need to beat around the bush, and specifics could be presented when it was time.

The retirement of the Grand Moff still rubbed Roudac the wrong way. There had been a lot of cogs moving in the machine, a lot by Yvarro herself, but now more changes would follow as directives adjusted, or protocols altered. Ultimately, at least for the military branch of the First Order, there should be little in the way of change. Gannan had kept his own business his, and had ensured changes were always directly through his sight lines, so he was never caught unaware. And for those proposals that he didn't agree with, well... he had just bogged them down in red tape, to be dealt with at later dates.

Some scuttling on a few ideas can happen now, seems like.

The rest of the update pertaining to Yvarro sounded per usual, as the Supreme Leader ended the topic and opened up the floor for questions. Before Roudac could speak up, a Lt. Colonel - Amsel, if memory recalled correctly, someone with a solid reputation - asked about the 9th and their assignment to taming the edges of First Order space. As far as the Allegiant General knew, there had been no discussions of directive changes for the military, nor funding reductions or functional changes to any great degree; so, to avoid immediately stepping in to speak over Fortan, right when she had claimed a return to leadership, Gannan glanced toward the Supreme Leader and waited for the answer. Then, once that happened, Roudac took the opportunity to speak up:

"I do have several points to discuss, your Grace," He said, as he looked down to some data before him. "Military-specific. I'm happy to wait until relevant questions to the current subjects are answered before bringing them up. It will require full discourse focus, unfortunately."

Natasi Fortan | Rolf Amsel | Matma Bernu | The Major | Jaida Tess | Arianna Sarreti | Vakim Duval​

 

[Natasi Fortan]

​

Natasi turned to give Rolf Amsel her full attention as he asked his question. It made sense to ask; a change in regime -- so to speak -- often came with a change of values, which in turn could lead to a change in operational directives. She nodded her head. "Generally speaking, it will not," she said in what she hoped was a reassurance to her longtime friend. "However, there are some pressing matters -- which I believe the Allegiant General will speak to -- that may require the Ninth's attention. But no, I have no intention of micromanaging your fleet operations."

She glanced at Roudac Gannan . She had no intention of micromanaging the Ninth, but she couldn't speak for Gannan. "Understood, Allegiant General. We'll come to that in a moment. I have one or two more housekeeping items I'd like to cover. To that end -- Flight Officer Jaida Tess," she said, looking over at the golden-haired pilot. "For performance above and beyond the call of duty during the Samovar Campaign, you are hereby promoted to the rank of Captain. Captain Kim regretted being unable to be here today but made sure to include in the dispatches that your quick action and stellar performance were key to the First Order's success there, for which I have also been asked to award you the Distinguished Flying Award (Second Grade). Having reviewed the after action report, I can only conclude that it is indeed merited, and I award it without hesitation. Congratulations, Captain Tess." She smiled broadly. "If you don't mind, I'll hand over the new hardware afterwards."

She straightened and looked around the room again. "Lieutenant Vakim Duval ," she said, locating the Lieutenant. "It's my pleasure to commission you as Major in the First Order Stormtrooper Corps in recognition of your faithful service to the First Order and its people. Very well done. I fully expect greatness in your continued service to our great nation. Thank you, again, for all your hard work."

Natasi cleared her throat and looked around once more. "Last, but not least -- Moff Graham has requested, and I happily agreed, that I recognize two members of the First Order Security Bureau, whose names I cannot reveal due to operational security concerns, for bravery above and beyond the call of duty during the terrorist attacks on Cantros. The first will be awarded the Calgar Medal (First Grade) for Meritorious Conduct. The individual in question selflessly placed themselves between Moff Graham and an assassin's bullet and was grievously injured. The second was instrumental in positively identifying the instigators of the terrorist attacks on Cantros when they, with no thought for their own safety, pursued the would-be assassin. It was thanks to their quick thinking and action that we were able to identify who was responsible for the murder of countless Cantrosians. This individual will be awarded the Distinguished Service Award (Second Grade). Moff Graham, Director Shepard: please be sure to pass along my personal thanks to your operatives." Adrian Cassidy and Tir Grastis would be given their medals in a clandestine ceremony at a later date.

"Now, then," said Natasi, looking around the room. "If there are no more questions -- Allegiant General Gannan, please," she gestured for him to take the floor.

Rolf Amsel |@Matma Bernu | The Major | Jaida Tess | Arianna Sarreti | Vakim Duval | Crix Helsing | Dyrn Grav | Roudac Gannan | Delilah Graham​

 

[Matma Bernu]

​

"Now, then," said Natasi, looking around the room. "If there are no more questions -- Allegiant General Gannan, please," she gestured for him to take the floor.

Ser Matma cleared his throat. Well, no time like the present. "If I may, your Grace", he began before withdrawing a holo-projector from his utility belt. With a tap, it started flipping through various periodicals in First Order space.

"The conflicts across the galaxy- the Brynadul invasions, the Civil War, the rampage of this Brotherhood of the Maw- have created a massive refugee crisis. With the refugees coming in, we a seeing a commensurate surge in the Force-Sensitive demographics.

Matma gestured at the periodicals continuously flashing. "Every one of these new stories involves an awakening- a time where one touches the Force for the first time. Often, these episodes are triggered by extreme stress. Those who awaken, we have found, are children more often then not. Outside of the Home Sector, many of our member worlds do not have the capacity or the resources to given these children the attention they need. And when an awakening occurs, sometimes it can happen...explosively."

Matma took a deep breath before continuing. "Your Grace, in a six month time-span, the Knights have responded to over three dozen awakenings. The majority of the time, we have been able to calm the awakened. When we have not, there have been casualties. We have confirmed three separate incidents of children killed after awakening in a school setting, by security forces on Tholon alone. With your permission, I would like to approach the Refugee Council to establish an initiative wherein we screen refugees for Force-Sensitivity. If they have a high enough midi-clorian count, the Knights will determine if the circumstances they suffered would warrant training to control their gifts, so they may safely integrate into society."

Natasi Fortan | Dyrn Grav | Rolf Amsel
The Major | Jaida Tess | Arianna Sarreti | Vakim Duval | Crix Helsing | Roudac Gannan | Delilah Graham