Krzesimir Viggo
The First Order
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Post by Krzesimir Viggo on Mar 29, 2021 12:44:50 GMT -8
The disappointment didn't go unnoticed, so he did a quick search for his own curiosity and noted the Moff in question had a documented distrust of force users. He then took a quick ping of the area to see if one of the Knights happened to be in the area and could be convinced to stumble in for a moment. He didn't see anyone nearby, at least not anyone available, so he turned his attention to replying to Ms. Sitar.
"Well, yes and no. Most of the trouble comes from legitimate haulers that decide, or are convinced, to do a little extra on the side. There haven't been any independent smuggling ops in while. Not since Grand Moff Kassel put Rear-Admiral Viggo in charge of system security. He takes care of his men and gear, so there's fewer gaps to exploit in system security. Still, we keep an eye out because the best way to guarantee a problem pops up is to pretend it can't. It's preventative maintenance really. "
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Post by Annelise Sitar on Mar 29, 2021 13:29:44 GMT -8
That is a fantastic perspective Sargant. I haven't had the pleasure of meeting the Admiral, but I have read reports. He seems to be highly effective. She was a little angry that she had shown displeasure. Among most it would have gone unnoticed, but to a seasoned NCO it would be noted. She didn't want to reflect poorly on the Grand Moff. Annelise needed to make sure to include this mistake in her report to Standash. Many in service tried to hide their mistakes, Annelise rarely made this mistake. It always came out, and it ended worse. That was the relationship she had always had with Standash. Have you served under him long?
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Krzesimir Viggo
The First Order
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Post by Krzesimir Viggo on Apr 23, 2021 9:03:31 GMT -8
The sergeant nodded acknowledgment of Ms. Sitar's appreciation. He wasn't surprised she hadn't met the man himself, few did apart from working with him directly. By all accounts the Rear-Admiral preferred an honest days work to an hour of socializing. He tried to put it tactfully while responding honestly.
"He puts in a lot of work, he's all but married to the job by all accounts. He likes things to be in order; and makes of habit of motivating the men to see it's done. He understands the work, and the people who do it, and he seems to care about us as much as any officer can. Our gear is serviced promptly when it breaks. Spare parts are always on hand. And there are often little perks, an extra ration, a drink, recreational use of simulators, little things that help break up the tedium while keeping the tools sharp. Anyone can take the time make these things available, but to most CO's it's all extra work. The Rear-Admiral sees it as another vital part of the job, no less important than the operational effectiveness of his ships. It's certainly made my time with him the best 8 years of my 22 years of service. Of course, I don't really see him much myself except via holo for general addresses. That said, if I get a choice in the matter, I'll finish out my career under him."
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Post by Annelise Sitar on Apr 26, 2021 11:55:42 GMT -8
The Aide nods. She knew what it was like working for someone married to the job.I can understand that, Grand Moff Thul is much the same way, the nature of her work can make things difficult. Most of what she handles is very classified. Even I, only really get spreadsheets and know the things I start on most things. But when you can trust someone cares about the people under then, you can trust even what you don't know. I do wish she would take more time for herself. I have known her most of her life, and she has always been so focused.
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Krzesimir Viggo
The First Order
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Post by Krzesimir Viggo on Apr 28, 2021 8:18:57 GMT -8
They were now entering the next cavern, an uneven floor throughout made footing a bit tricky to maintain but the troops seemed to handle it easily, their training clearly benefiting them in the uneven terrain. The air temperature here also dipped noticeably; vapor clearly visible on one's breath. Well, on Sitar's breath, the sealed suits of the troopers didn't let them enjoy the effect. The crystals here were of richer colors, or deeper hues, and seemed to be particularly reflective. They gave the cave a warm glow despite the lower temperature. Balek chuckled at the familiar experiences Ms. Sitar had with her boss even if her job was in different field. It was interesting when civilian and martial lifestyles mirrored each other since the differences were so prominent.
"Well ma'am, if you're going to find anything special it'll probably here. Sometimes the Knights come here to meditate, they say the atmosphere is uniquely suited to focusing the mind. Never tried it myself, but you won't hurt anything by trying if you're so inclined."
Balek wasn't sure what she would find, or if there was anything to be found, but he certainly appreciated her professional manner and her loyalty. His comlink blinked at him to announce that the previously requested forms for observation and participation of the upcoming exercise were on his datapad now. He made a mental note to pass the forms along on their way back out of the caves.
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Post by Annelise Sitar on Apr 30, 2021 10:12:12 GMT -8
Annelise frowns. At this point, she was intrigued by the mystery. She was always intrested in figuring things out. That the Knights spent time here, gave her greater idea that there could be something here. She makes the call to submit a general request to the Imperial Knights. This didn't need Standash's approval or knowledge. If it worked, she would be happy for results. If it didn't she would get over it. If the request was ignored, not bother either way.Meditating has never really been my thing, I have to be doing things. Running, jumping, problem-solving, I need to be doing one of those to feel complete.
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Jenia Kasalle
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Post by Jenia Kasalle on Sept 17, 2021 1:56:03 GMT -8
Having arrived at the outskirts of the caves complex, somewhere where the military presence of the First Order wasn't too present, the white Upsilon-class command shuttle was nearly camouflagged. Yet the dark-coloured presence of four Novatroopers, who accompanied the small figure of a silver-haired woman, completely covered in a white fur coat was revealing the presence of the Grand Moff's escort. Luckily though this wasn't a stealth mission.
As they entered the entrance of the cave, Jenia told two of the Novatroopers immidiately to just guard the exit. If the so-called Executor wished to speak with her, they could let him and his escort pass. At least that was, when he came with an escort. With the other two troopers taking their position somewhere afar to scan the cave entrance area for potentially dangerous wildlife, that has taken roots within the caverns, Jenia then proceeded to wait in the presence of some bright crystals, that iluminated the nearby area. Here in the caves the temperatures were luckily a bit warmer than on the outside, yet it angered Jenia that she wasn't too used to the cold of this planet anymore as when she gouverned it personally. Perhaps this was the prize of filling both the administrative role of a Grand Moff and the role of a navy officer in the form of a Grand Admiral.
Remaining stoic where she was, Jenia wondered to some portion how her encounter with the Praetorite Vong would continiue. She wasn't necessarily too keen, when the Commodore had informed her that an unknown entity had entered Ilum's orbit, yet curiousity had taken over the more informations she recieved on her way towards this outer border of their Empire. Not that Jenia was too worried about Ilum's defences and a potential counterattack with the navy, if new smugglers would attempt to sabotage and steal from the imperial mining facilities, her concern was mostly rooted in one of the more secret sections of the planetary facility. I hope Lucien will forgive me for what I have done. She closed her eyes, as her thoughts briefly remained with the Imperial Knight. Would he understand the decision? Feel glad about it? Be enraged? So far it was hard to tell... all she knew was that she had to fill her own emotional instability during his absence with something else other than void. For in the end she served the First Order and it's Emperor. Thus her legacy would continiue this path, no matter the odds. And no matter whether this one love had cooled down or not.
Briefly checking the portable holoprojector that the two troopers had brought with them, she pushed away those thoughts, focusing on the upcoming meeting. The coordinates are set to Coruscant. The Imperial Palace. Frequences towards the Emperor Nicademus Delvardus IV were set up, while interferences here at the cave entrance would be low. By the time he had already been informed regarding the movements on Ilum, given the planet's natural rescources and the nature of the upcoming diplomatic meeting. Now the only person that was missing was Executor Nem Yin , the leader of a new Yuuzhan Vong faction that claimed to know both the Emperor and others that could vouch for him and his intentions.
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Nem Yin
The First Order
The dark expanse of the intergalactic void is not as empty as they would have you believe...
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Post by Nem Yin on Sept 18, 2021 5:46:37 GMT -8
Descending through the atmosphere, the yorik-trema Blood Chalice dipped below the cloud line, flying over vast plains of ice and snow as it neared the Crystal Caves. It appeared much the molted ball, with a long tail whipping behind it, serving to propel it to some degree as the dovin basals were a bit more finicky within a naturally formed gravity well. The pilot within followed the set of provided coordinates, bringing the organic vessel down near the Upsilon shuttle. Six spindly segmented legs emerged from the underside of the transport. The sharp tips of each leg connected with the ground and gently eased the body of the transport to the floor. A long seem along the side of the ship appeared and began to split apart as the interior hatch sphincter opened up and a molleung worm extended from the opening down to the floor of the landing area. It was the Yuuzhan Vong equivalent of a hatch and boarding ramp.From within the transport strode four members of the warrior caste, amphistaffs rigid and in hand as they walked down the fleshy ramp in two orderly rows of two, standing off to either side as they reached the bottom. Next came the man, or rather, Vong of the hour. Garbed in a large flowing robe of glistaweb, the Executor practically shimmered as he emerged from the hatch sphincter, stopping at the top of the molleung worm. His head was exposed to the elements, revealing a sloped bald head and pointed ears, all covered in scarred and tattooed flesh with the grey pallor of a corpse. Dark veins pulsed beneath his skin and dark purple eye sacks bulged beneath his mqaaq'it eye implants, that shone an intense green as they peered about the landing sight. He could feel the frigid air bite at his exposed flesh.It was a cold world, but he welcomed that about it. If he had to spend time on-world somewhere, better that it was cold than hot, it helped with his malaise. For as long as we could remember, being within a naturally formed gravity well had always caused his illness to flair, making him feel nauseous and off balance. This was likely due to the long period of time he had spent traveling the intergalactic void. It had left its mark and now he only felt comfortable on a ship, in a space station, or anywhere that was surrounded on all sides by an airless vacuum.Nem reached within his robe to the bladder flask secured against his hip and withdrew the skin, bringing it to his thin lips. He unsealed the flask with a stroke of his thumb and poured a measure of the thick narcotic liquid found within into his open mouth. The liquid passed by his yellow pointed teeth and dripped down into his stomach. Just a small amount to settle the already forming queasiness, but not too much. Sparkbee honey was known for its potency. He replaced the flask on his hip and then continued down the molleung worm ramp. Where the warrior caste were rigid and had moved with a martial grace, the Intendant's stride was more of an off kilter swagger, odd but also a result of his condition. It took a while for him to find his land legs.Following behind and just off to the left side of Nem was his chazrach scribe, a short reptilian creature garbed in a very basic tunic and trousers made of living robeskin. It had been bred to serve, which it did with gusto, escorting the Executor on just about every diplomatic mission he had participated in. It was largely ignored for the most part. The creature, which could not really be called sentient, carried Nem's personal qahsa tablet, along with a stylus biot and plenty of parchment. It shuffled as it moved, almost hopping between steps as it followed the Executor.Glowing green mqaaq'it peered at the entrance of the cave and the two nova troopers guarding it. The Intendant nodded to his bodyguard accompaniment and they moved towards the entrance as one, Nem leading the way with guards on either side and chazrach in tow. His shimmering outfit held perhaps a similarity to the sparkling wonders found within the cave network. Assuming the guards allowed all to pass within the caves, the Executor's first words would be..."There is an austere beauty to this world. Harsh and inhospitable, yet a sight to behold and remember if one knows where to look. It reminds me of the lambent fields on Zonama Sekot, though somewhat more serene in its isolation." His voice was harsh and accented, though he spoke galactic basic without the aid of a tizowyrm. "Greetings, I am Nem, head of Domain Yin and Executor of the Praetorite Vong, though for the sake of expediency I would much prefer to be addressed as Executor or simply Nem. You are the Grand Moff?"When he spoke his words were for the woman in the white fur coat, which was the obvious variation from the armoured nova-troopers. He was certain he would have figured it out even if she didn't look different from the others. He had spent a great deal of time in infidel space and found such distinctions were usually quite obvious.
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Jenia Kasalle
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Post by Jenia Kasalle on Sept 20, 2021 1:08:21 GMT -8
Standing stoic, the Novatroopers allowed the group to enter the cavern entrance, just as they were ordered to do.
Thus the Grand Moff turned around, less surprised by the appearence of the Yuuzhan Vong. She mustered them unmoved, though it was her first encounter with members of their species. To some portion she could certainly reason why they differed from humanoids within the known galaxy and even more, why they were once feared just alone by their appearence. Benevolent she listened to the words of the Executor, before she answered. "I never visited this planet unfortunately, thus I can not draw a comparison. But certainly I can agree that even a forlorn mining world like Ilum truely holds some beauty, that is truely fascinating", she spoke solely with a faint smile, before her expression became more serious again, "It is an honor for me to meet you, Nem. As you might have been told, I'm Grand Admiral Jenia Kasalle, appointed Grand Moff of the Muunilinst oversector by the Emperor Nicademus Delvardus. Usually we do adress ourselves in titles, Executor, but given the situation of the meeting I'll leave you the choice as well, whether you want to adress me in my position as Grand Admiral or Grand Moff or simply by calling me Jenia." Though it was admittedly strange to avoid the regular routine, when it came to names, she wasn't too uncomfortable with the choice. If a leader of the Vong gave her already the choice to call him by his regular name, there was no need to insist on her own titles, that were granted and taken by the Empire. All that mattered was the respect, that was given towards the Emperor, since she was no more than an emissary. "Our emitter is set up to contact the Imperial Palace whenever you wish to speak with the Emperor himself", the Grand Admiral then continiued, pointing at the portable device next to her, "At least the officers under my command informed me, that it was your intention to speak with him, since you seem to know him, along with another person that you mentioned. Yet I was also told that you knew him from times before the First Order was founded." There was some curiousity in her own eyes as well, given that she wasn't really sure what she was in for. This meeting was certainly different than previous negotiations with the Mandalorians at the border world Agamar, more alien in both the physical difference between the ambassadors and the strange cave, where they held their meeting. Where others within Imperial service were probably intimidated or scared, Jenia was simply fascinated despite her face looking like a cold, unmoved mask as she spoke.
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Nem Yin
The First Order
The dark expanse of the intergalactic void is not as empty as they would have you believe...
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Post by Nem Yin on Sept 20, 2021 6:22:27 GMT -8
"I should clarify." He held up an empty hand. "I have never met Nicademus Delvardus. In the past when he was Emperor of the Imperial Remnant, I worked in concert with one of his agents, an Imperial Knight by the name of Xeonon Solomon. At the time the biggest threat to the galaxy was an organization known as the Sith Empire that operated out of Korriban. The Praetorite devoted itself to gathering intelligence on the Sith and provided that information to the Imperial Remnant in exchange for hyperspace maps of the deep core and a letter of marque to operate there. Dangerous times..." His mqaaq'it flared briefly. "...and costly. We both lost good agents."
It seemed like a lifetime ago. He never would have expected the Imperial Remnant to have evolved into what these Imperials claimed. At the time he had simply been trying to vie for time, to slow the rise of the Sith Empire before it consumed the galaxy. It was a time of desperation, where every action risked the annihilation of his people. But it evidently had been worth it.
Nem approached one of the cave walls and ran a hand over a crystal embedded in the stone. It was almost warm to the touch, as though it possessed some form of energy or even a life force. His eye sacks inflated and deflated. Most intriguing. He removed his hand and returned it within the folds of his robe, then continued addressing the Grand Admiral.
"Things are different now, evidently. We were forced to depart the galaxy before the conflict was seen through to the end. I can't get into the specifics but a security concern presented itself to my people that could not be ignored." He paused. "It has been...dealt with, and now we have returned to oversee the colony of our people on Zonoma Sekot."
There was little point concealing where they resided. It was a publicly known fact that after the events of the Yuuzhan Vong War, the last remnants of Nem's species had settled on the living planet. There was a second seed world, Tur Yenagh, that had also held a colony of his people, where the members of Domain Yin had come into power post war. That world had gone missing, which was what inevitably led to the Praetorite departing the known galaxy for the intergalactic void on a quest to find it. A quest that had failed.
"But the Unknown Regions are a dangerous place, where non-hostile races and allies are in short supply. In the past we relied on a mutually beneficial partnership with the Chiss Ascendency. We have made overtures towards them since our return, so far to no avail. I wonder, especially seeing as Ilum is no longer theirs, if they even still operate in this region of space. Suffice it to say, we are seeking a similar arrangement with other powers in the region. Your First Order seems a logical choice given our history of working with your organization's progenitors. Assuming of course the First Order is amenable towards an arrangement of some sort."
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Jenia Kasalle
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Post by Jenia Kasalle on Sept 22, 2021 6:28:02 GMT -8
Jenia pondered about what she had heard. So far Ilum and it's surrounding systems was not more than a border, one of the few outposts that the Imperials held as a frontier in known space. Of course there were also outposts of the First Order and other Imperial factions within the Unknown Regions somewhere for sure, yet the contact was sparse and there weren't any major bases operating there up to the Grand Admiral's knowledge. Though that didn't necessarily exclude operations of Imperial Intelligence... "I frankly never met the Imperial Knight you mentioned, yet I do believe your word, Nem", she answered thus, while her attention also shifted towards the wonderous cave, that surrounded them, as she walked along the Yuuzhan Vong Executor, "In some ways the presence of the Sith hasn't necessarily changed within the galaxy, as they are still strong in force. A power, not necessarily remembered fondly by a lot of us, yet a necessary evil. Reports of a rising Sith Empire, the so called Blackguard Reborn, do exist, although I'd like the Emperor to elaborate more on them, as I was lucky enough not to operate within these regions of the galaxy, where they currently lurk. I don't know though if they belong to the Sith Empire you're talking about."
She hoped at least that her words haven't necessarily infuriated the leader ot the Praetorite Yin. In the end she had no love for the darksiders either. Of course there were the Ren, the dark knights of the First Order, that she respected to some degree due to her family's ties towards the organisation. That didn't necessarily mean though that she necessarily liked them, just that she prefered them more. The Grand Admiral didn't understood much about the Force and how it worked out, she solely knew that it was sometimes scary. But at least she understood the difference of the two main philosophies to a point, that both are needed and that both sides featured extremes, that had to be sanctioned. For the First Order's force users symbolized the perfect yin and yang due to their loyality towards the Emperor's throne.
"Neither do I know much about the Chiss Ascendancy other that it was dissolved by a new Empire of the Hand, who were Chiss allies on our side that seeked to continiue Thrawn's heritage. Nowadays things have become quiet. Rumors say, that they are currently fighting their own war against a rebel faction named Sword and Shield Dominion, but it's not of our concern. The First Order guards the galaxy, but the inner political struggles within their own domains is not of the First Order's buiseness, should these worlds wish to remain independent from imperial gouvernmentship.
On the other hand though your conclusion seems logical. The First Order is one of the major powers within the galaxy, if not THE major power. An arrangement with us can certainly be benefitial for both sides, given the economical and military strength our Empire can muster. And allies within the Unknown Region can hardly be a disadvantage from my point of view. The dangers that threaten the known galaxy are uncounted, for with each solved threat another one might spawn, perhaps even more fearsome than the last. " She didn't necessarily mean it as an insult towards the Yuuzhan Vong, but just as a sole statement of how history with the Unknown Regions usually went in the past. The possibility that far more dangerous forces than the Vong were threatening the galaxy, either from outside or within wasn't something a military officer like her would easily dismiss as a mere hoax.
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Nem Yin
The First Order
The dark expanse of the intergalactic void is not as empty as they would have you believe...
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Post by Nem Yin on Sept 22, 2021 19:21:32 GMT -8
Nem wrung his hands together, concealed beneath the large sleeves of his glistaweb robe, which seemed to shimmer as though competing with the sparkle of the crystal caves.
He liked some but not all that he was hearing. Times had clearly changed and the Sith Empire that he knew appeared to be gone, replaced by smaller Sith factions, less a great menace to the galaxy at large. Frankly he had nothing against their religious beliefs; it was their politics that troubled him. He had weighed the pros and cons for his people, and a galaxy controlled by a Sith Empire did not bode well for the Yuuzhan Vong people. The few that remained were still recovering from the war. The physical wounds were mostly healed, but the disease that had effected their very culture, influenced by 15 000 years of bloodshed and war as they traveled the intergalactic void, could not so easily be undone. They needed time. Time he swore to provide, whatever the cost.
The warrior caste that had accompanied the Executor, along with the hunched chazrach, stood apart from the Intendant as he discussed galactic matters with Grand Admiral Jenia Kasalle. Despite being in unknown territory they were at ease. They knew that if events went sour and armed conflict ensued, they would find themselves on a hostile world, outgunned and outmanned. They would all die, a glorious wonderful death. It was the reason Nem so rarely employed members of the warrior caste as his personal bodyguard. They were insane. Steam vented from the Yuuzhan Vong's short stub like nose as he exhaled into the chill air. There was a clarity to be found in the cold bite of a frigid breeze, he felt sharper and more alert than unusual, despite the fug at the corners of his vision.
"These Sith do not sound like something my people need concern ourselves with, at least not anymore." Small Sith groups that controlled a planet here or there were no more threat than any other group, be they Sith or something else. "This news of the Chiss is of concern, as they were something of a bulwark we relied upon. Without them, we are...exposed." He hesitated on the last word, stressing it as though it held greater meaning, for in truth it did. "My concern is not simply for the prosperity of my people. It is for there survival."
His mqaaq'it flared a vibrant green as though possessed by witch fire, illuminating everything within his view in an emerald haze. He fixed those two brilliant orbs, blazing like twin gamorrean suns, on the Grand Moff.
"I think you see the galaxy as I do, Jenia. Many speak of the threats found without, when the truest and gravest of threats are usually found within. My own peoples historic invasion of the galaxy, excluded of course. It just so happens I have some experience in the sussing out of such threats." Intelligence gathering was kind of his shtick. "I once had an information network that ran the length of the galaxy, and I will again, given time and the appropriate assistance. My domain specializes in infiltration and intelligence gathering. Our spies can not be detected by Force sensitives, they can look like anyone from any species, and they communicate seamlessly from across the galaxy without fear of being intercepted. It is a service I offered to the Imperial Remnant, and it is a service I would extend to the First Order, for the appropriate price."
Finally his mqaaq'it dimmed, narrowing as he examined the Grand Moff's features for any indication of her thought or mood. He brought one long index finger to the side of his hairless scalp, tapping it ever so slightly with a spindly digit.
"I was thinking, membership, perhaps?"
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Jenia Kasalle
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Post by Jenia Kasalle on Sept 23, 2021 8:58:01 GMT -8
The curiousity regarding this last offer was certainly high, given that a Yuuzhan Vong faction could be indeed a valuable ally. Certainly some of the old traditionalist Imperials would be enraged while some among the newer elites would have concerns in reminder of previous history between their race and the galaxy, yet Jenia saw barely any harm in it. The key was to understand movements within the galaxy and the Praetorite Vong were one movement that could certainly bring advantages towards the First Order and it's empire, especially when it came to the tasks that were mentioned by the Executor. A deal with the Vong would mean to have the upper edge against force users in future battles as even the best imperial agent can be tracked down by a force user. And as it was pointed out a Yuuzhan Vong spy could fill in these tasks that the ISB deems impossible for the moment. Certainly an offer from which they could benefit.
"It can be arranged for sure, given that we can contact the Emperor at any time you wish to make the deal", she thus answered benevolent, the interest in her voice certainly peaking through, "Given the benefits of the deal for our empire, I don't necessarily see a downside to your offer, as it is also in my interest to bridge the animosities between Imperials and those non-human species that benefit from it's gouvernment, yet get rejected for various reasons. The Fel Dynasty has proven that these animosities can be overcome and thus I do believe that the times of a humanocentric Galactic Empire will be over with the Delvardus line in charge. Deals with the Mandalorians and other domains, that the First Order has pacified and returned to the rulership of a singular planetary gouvernment are proof to the effectiveness of this system, so I see no reason to exclude your people from a potential opportunity that can help the both of us, Nem. The current offer would have my support, should the Emperor ask me onto my opinion on it." She wondered if Imperial Intelligence would see it the same way as her, yet it was nothing she had to worry about for the moment. That would be for the Emperor to decide, not for her.
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Nem Yin
The First Order
The dark expanse of the intergalactic void is not as empty as they would have you believe...
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Post by Nem Yin on Sept 23, 2021 10:56:28 GMT -8
He didn't like using the Grand Admiral as a sounding board, but it was necessary to gauge the viability of any proposal put forth. If she were to shoot it down, certainly this Emperor of hers was likely to as well, then all would be for naught. There were other ways to gain the form of compliance he sought, though he was reluctant to pursue those methods given a reasonable alternative. There was everything to gain through peaceful negotiation. Long term stability, a powerful ally with assets in the region, and access to most areas of the galaxy. Likely many of his people wouldn't be thrilled at the prospect of becoming First Order citizens, but outside of the Praetorite military structure he did not foresee many of his people ever leaving Zonama Sekot. The day to day events of their lives were unlikely to change. Plus he wasn't planning on asking their opinion on the subject. He would decide what was best for his people, as he always had.
Nem nodded his head, understanding that before the matter was settled it would have to be brought to the Emperor's attention. He looked over his shoulder and uttered something guttural in Yuuzhan Vong to the warrior caste in attendance. They came to stand behind him and off to either side, while the chazrach hobbled over to the Executor and took position beside him.
"Excellent. Then let us speak with this Emperor Nicademus Delvardus and see what his thoughts on the matter are." He regarded the holo-emitter set up in the cavern, quite familiar with what the device was and what purpose it served. "I am curious to meet the man my old friend held in such high esteem."
Though he attempted to comport himself in a regal manner, physically he often projected revulsion before anything else, a result of having a face that looked like a skull and being so utterly alien in nature compared to the infidel races of the galaxy. Still, he stood straight and kept his head bowed before the emitter, attempting to display something akin to humility in anticipation of the Emperor's projection to come.
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Jenia Kasalle
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Post by Jenia Kasalle on Sept 23, 2021 12:46:56 GMT -8
Without hesitation, Jenia activated the emitter, contacting Coruscant on a special frequency. Given that Nicademus Delvardus IV was informed beforehand, the Grand Admiral assumed that either him or a member of his family would probably answer. In the end though it didn't matter too much as long as it was done with the Emperor's permission. The image activated and like Nem the Grand Admiral stood stoic next to it, lowering her head in respect towards the apparation.
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Post by Nicademus Delvardus IV on Sept 23, 2021 12:58:05 GMT -8
After a few moments, the holo-device lit up and revealed the image of the Emperor of the First Order, Nicademus Delvardus. As usual, he wore his white colored military uniform. It took a couple more seconds before the communication was stabilized and encrypted. His eyes look around, noticing Grand Admiral Jenia and their guest, a Vong identified as Nem of Domain Yin. He wasn't too familiar with the Vong, save for the military history that the galaxy endured several generations ago. So, his best bet was being his polite and usual self when encountering this extragalactic individual. He addressed his subordinate first.
Grand Admiral Jenia, I hope you have been able to bring our visitor up to speed on the affairs of the galaxy.
The Imperial was aware of a few key things: one being that this Vong had worked with the Imperial Knight, Xeonon Solomon and two that Jenia was meeting with him personally to discuss the matters of the galaxy. His attention remained on Jenia.
The First Order commends you for your actions in dealing, peacefully, with our visitor.
Other nations and cultures would have certainly fired and asked questions later. Hence why Jenia was chosen to be a Grand Admiral for her level-headed attitude and rational thinking. His gaze then turns to Nem, the holo-image phasing a little bit as he did so. For a moment, the Imperial simply looks at the Vong before bowing his head slightly.
Forgive me of my ignorance. I hope that addressing as Nem Yin is acceptable. If not, would the title of Praetor suit you better?
Nicademus inquires, wondering which was more appropriate in terms of addressing the Vong.
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Nem Yin
The First Order
The dark expanse of the intergalactic void is not as empty as they would have you believe...
Posts: 439
Affiliation: The First Order
Traffic Light: Blue
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Post by Nem Yin on Sept 23, 2021 14:37:59 GMT -8
Nem kept his head bowed as the Emperor spoke, though his pulse began to quicken, visible in the repetitive bulge of the dark purple eye sacks beneath his mqaaq'it ocular implants.
So this was the Emperor his old friend had spoke of in a meeting over drinks that felt so very long ago. He half expected a giant, which while unlikely was still possible he supposed, understanding that a holographic representation was not always an exact replication of a person's true form. Still, quite unlikely.
The Intendant went so far as to lower himself to a knee, extending his arms out to the side as he bowed completely before rising to a standing position and looking the hologram of the Emperor in the eye.
"My title is Executor, your majesty." He corrected. "But you need only address me as Nem, if it pleases your worshipfulness."
Intergalactic politics was not entirely his forte, despite speaking on behalf of his own people in a diplomatic and militaristic role. The closest his own people had ever had to an Emperor was the title of Supreme Overlord. Despite his misgivings about that particular position, he remembered enough from his dealings with Shimrra Jamaane about the way such beings usually preferred to be spoken to. It was part of the reason he typically only dealt with subordinates. However, it was too early in the conversation to form an opinion of this particular ruler.
"Imperial Knight Xeonon Solomon spoke very highly of you, when last we met, which admittedly was some time ago. He seemed an excellent judge of character; however, so I have no doubt his praise was rightly deserved. I have been speaking with Grand Moff Jenia Kasalle about the Praetorite Vong petitioning for membership with the First Order. We are small in number and have only the living planet Zonama Sekot as a territory, but I had hoped you might find the specialization of my domain to be of value to your Empire. In the past when you were the Emperor of the Imperial Remnant and resided mainly in the Deep Core, our talents proved valuable, I believe. And while the Sith Empire might be little more than a bitter memory at this point, the threats this galaxy breeds never really end, do they?"
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Post by Nicademus Delvardus IV on Sept 23, 2021 15:23:03 GMT -8
Someone familiar with Xeonon Solomon? Stars above, who else did his colleague know that he had not told the Emperor. Nicademus was definitely surprised by Solomon's name being dropped. He had not thought that his old friend would make acquaintances with a Vong, but Solomon, before returning to the Empire, had traveled about and likely met many who could be of aid to the First Order. The name Praetorite Vong did raise some questions.
With what knowledge was known of the extragalactic species, if the Imperial wasn't mistaken, the Praetorite were the 'vanguard' of the Yuuzhan Vong, prior to their invasion of the galaxy. An organization dedicated to establishing a foothold. Given the Vong had a presence in the galaxy now, it was intriguing, and worrying, to hear that the Praetorite had been re-established at Zonama Sekot. Still, it seemed like the Praetorite had been involved with his faction before with Nem bringing up the mention of the Deep Core Remnant.
Executor Yin, it is... intriguing to hear that the Praetorite Vong are reformed and seek membership into the Empire. Your kin tended to keep away from galactic affairs ever since the invasion and the failure of the Ossus Project. There has not been reports of a Vong organization in many years.
Various intelligences that Nicademus had inherited confirmed this fact. So it was an interesting realization. True, there were various mentions of Warlord fleets, small gatherings, and short-lived unions, but the revival of the Praetorite represented a massive achievement. Still, these Vong were very likely to be highly skilled to be reformed into this organization. And the Emperor was not planning to simply let this chance go to waste. However, questions needed to be asked first.
Given the previous role of the Praetorite, I must ask, Executor, what does your revived organization do? What does it offer to the Empire? After all, an investment offered must be beneficial to both sides of the agreement. You seek a prosperous membership, so I must know how to best utilize and position your kin. To ensure they are properly able to use their talents and skills.
The Imperial sounded genuinely curious and sincere. This was how he usually did things; ensure that the offer came with benefits for the Empire so that the individual, or individuals, could prosper with the Empire and that the Imperial nation could gain much for the beneficial contract.
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Nem Yin
The First Order
The dark expanse of the intergalactic void is not as empty as they would have you believe...
Posts: 439
Affiliation: The First Order
Traffic Light: Blue
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Post by Nem Yin on Sept 23, 2021 20:12:58 GMT -8
He knew all too well of the invasion. Nem had arrived in this galaxy long before it had even begun, then he had played his part in it when the time came for the spear to thrust. His hands were soaked in the blood of numerous civilizations. It wasn't something he was proud of, but those events were a part of him, as much as his organ grafted heart. After the end of the invasion, when the smoke of deception dissipated and the truth was finally revealed, he turned from the fate forced upon his people. The Intendant and his Domain departed the galaxy in search of the lost seedling of their home world. Eventually they found it, conquered it, and then returned to a galaxy much changed since the events of the Yuuzhan Vong War. One thing had been clear; their people were on the brink of extinction. What few remained survived on Zonama Sekot and were prime targets for any race or creed with a reason for revenge, of which their were countless.For a time he had leaned on the Chiss Ascendency, and quite frankly their generosity and mercy. They were a bulwark against the threats of the known galaxy, rather than what existed beyond its borders. Through a non-hostility pact known as the Treaty of Lwhekk, peace had been secured in the Unknown Regions, the two governments jointly enforced law and order, supporting each other against any threat. It was sad to say that Nem's people had failed in their duty first, departing the galaxy once more after news arrived that the lost seedling was lost yet again, abandoning the Chiss Ascendency to its eventual dissolution. It was now for this reason that the Executor sought a strong partner. They had no one else to turn to, and the threats...they were still legion."Emperor, my people traveled across the starless empty expanse between galaxies for fifteen thousand years. What arrived during the invasion of the galaxy was the bulk of my people to be certain, however, more likely do exist and will arrive at some time. I can not speak for them, but I speak for the ones that are here now, the collective domains that are known as the reborn Praetorite Vong. We still seek the same thing we did at the end of the war. Time...time to heal as individuals, as a culture, and as a people. A single generation, or even ten, may not be enough to undo the psychological damage of fifteen thousand years of violence. They need time and their survival is the only thing that matters to me."An overshare for certain, but sometimes you needed to lay all your cards down on the table."What we offer..." He shrugged his shoulders and rotated his hands until his fingers were splayed outwards, as though to say "well". "...is a modest fleet capable of acting as a privateer force within the Unknown Regions, on the First Order's behalf of course. I do not deny the self interest there. Additionally, my domain specializes in infiltration and intelligence gathering. We used to possess a substantial information network that provided useful information to a variety of organizations." He sneered boastfully. "I once lured a team of the Corellian Jedi Order's finest on a wild hawk-bat chase just to lead them towards their own 'discovery' of a mutual threat. My people move unseen, even by those gifted with the Force. They can look like anyone of any species. Our means of communications can not be intercepted or hacked. This service I would put at your disposal, your grace. Along with my own personal expertise." Time to toot his own horn. "I've captured Jedi before with my own hands, interrogated them to...some effect. My agents are equally adept."Next to the Executor his personal chazrach scribe worked feverishly at the parchment in his hands, scribbling with his stylus biot as though everything else in the universe was not worthy of its attention. Nem reached down and rubbed a long fingered hand over the reptilian creatures scaly scalp, teasing it as he briefly looked away from the Emperor's hologram, then turned back. His mqaaq'it eye implants had been green up until this point, slightly luminous. Now they dimmed to dark wells of nothing, black and final."I offer you, Emperor, what we are. A hidden blade."
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Post by Nicademus Delvardus IV on Sept 23, 2021 23:16:18 GMT -8
Another offer of a hidden blade. The Emperor was receiving a lot of these offers it seemed... it first started off that blasted Sith cult led by Viox Savage, which eventually turned into the more profitable SSE department, commanded by Lord Havok. However, this was a contrast to the latter. Overall, Imperial Intelligence handled both internal and external operations. The internal was augmented by the relatively unknown presence of Lord Havok's department. What Nem offered was a counter to this; an external augmentation in the form of the Praetorite Vong. Nem Yin would command this extension as a valuable member of the Empire's web of intelligence work.
Nicademus seemed to truly consider the words spoken by the Executor. The Empire had not truly made an enemy of the Jedi, save the Ren, who had bombarded and practically obliterated the Jedi Archive over on Ossus. And only twice before had the First Order dealt with the Jedi; their commanders leading the reborn Rebel Alliance over Dantooine and their presence at the signing of the Treaty of Manaan. Still, one day, the Empire would make a true enemy out of the Jedi Order, likely when the Imperial moved against the last bastion of democracy, the Corellian Coalition. So, in time, these Vong would become a prized asset.
I see no reason to not accept you, Executor Yin. What you offer is something that can be utilized by the Empire and proven to be a worthy asset.
However, there was a consideration to offer further.
Zonama Sekot will remain outside of Imperial control. You deserve your home and I will not seek to impose Imperial rule upon it. I only ask that your kin be friendly to ships of the Imperial state. Furthermore, I will speak with my officials about granting permissions on a couple of worlds where you may set up a base within Imperial territory to serve as your place of operations. We will take any suggestions in terms of planetary climate, resources required, and similar factors into consideration if you wish to make any particular requests.
Shili and Garqi came to mind, considering their lush terrains. Places where the Vong would certainly thrive. Despite what the public may think, the Imperial had to be generous. After all, when Mandalorians visited Muunilinst, not long after the attack by fanatics of their clans, the then Supreme Commander offered the hand of friendship nonetheless. An opportunity to gain allies and a chance to profit from an alliance was hardly something to be overlooked simply because of public opinion.
Further terms can be negotiated in person, if that is acceptable, Executor. A visit to Coruscant and a face-to-face meeting would be the next step in our relationship between Imperial and Vong. After all, we must ensure an agreement that ensures both sides are rewarded well and profit significantly from it.
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