Standash Thul
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Post by Standash Thul on Dec 5, 2015 11:58:55 GMT -8
Constructed before the fall of the republic and the rise of the first empire, the Alderaan Embassy was one of the largest and grandest senatorial offices on the planet. No expense was spared in constructing the small palace. All the building materials came from Alderaan, and it was built to be nearly self sustaining. Multiple landing pads dotted the compound, large gardens and fields were everywhere. In a sense it was a piece of the world once known as the Crown Jewel of the Republic.
Alderaan's recent galactic isolation had let some parts fall into disrepair, but months before the Princess made her return, gardeners and craftsmen brought the mansion up to its former glory.
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Standash Thul
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Post by Standash Thul on Dec 5, 2015 17:17:11 GMT -8
Annelise Is running all over the grounds as preparations are being finished up for the arrival of the incoming dignitaries. The banquet halls being filled with delicacies from across the galaxy, but focusing on Hapes and Alderaan. Bed rooms and staff rooms were set up to give options for the visitors. Security was in perfectly polished armor and robes. Everything was perfect.
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Darth Belial
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"The difference between gods and daemons largely depends upon where one is standing at the time."
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Post by Darth Belial on Dec 7, 2015 20:11:22 GMT -8
In the realm of diplomacy, the first impression was but one of many crucial factors of determining the outcome of two gathered political parties. To acknowledge such an important fact, the Consortium had polished their immaculate vessels so that as they slipped through the artificial atmosphere of the city-world, they shimmered iridescent in the rising light of the local star. Three hawk-swept shuttles had comprised the core of the Hapan cavalcade, with two squadrons of Miy'til starfighters acting as an armed escort. Though their weapons were cycled down and their shields inactive, the sight alone was enough to inspire either a terrible fear within the hearts of those that would oppose the Queen Mother' will or a gratifying awe at the sight of such martial prowess. It mattered little to the women seated within the craft, for their duty was to ensure their beloved Ereneda's safety, no matter the cost. So, as the two Alderaanian RZ-1 A-wing Interceptor's had joined the convoy - leading them towards the small palatial estate - each of the pilots had figuratively seated themselves upon the edges of their seats. Even a defanged foe could still kill an unprepared predator. However, as the Embassy came within view, the pilots began breaking their perfect formation and flew off into the horizon. They secured the space above the diplomatic estate with practiced efficacy, and patrolled the skies as flawless falcon's; waiting for their chance to swoop down and strike should the need arise.
Bereft of her armed escorts, the three shuttles continued their descent through the cleared skies of the Senate District. They soared upon their repulsors with an almost feminine grace, portraying an uncharacteristic dignity that many vessels of similar model and make had lacked. When the time had come for them to touch down upon the rounded landing pad, they did so with perfect fluidity. Simultaneously, each of the three orbiters had come to a rest atop the flight deck, depressing upon their landing struts and sending out vibrant hisses of hydraulic steam as each of the metallic ivory craft rose to their becalmed height. Without hesitation, a trio of boarding ramps descended from the now gaping maws of the consular craft, leaving behind an uncharacteristic wellspring of darkness within a canvas of effervescent colours. Dozens of armed guardians, clad in the form-fitting alabaster war-plate of the Consortium's Royal Marines, stormed down the iron-shod gradient and took up position along the walkway. Each stood several feet apart from one another, holding their arms close to their breasts in silent repose. They were a part of the Queen Mother's detail and acted as her Honour Guard when she had visited other worlds outside the protection of the Transitory Mists. For even though this was to be a mission of peace, there were those among the stars that wished to see such important figures slain so that chaos might reign.
With their soldier's having taken their customary positions, nearly a dozen handmaidens - clad in the ivory hues of dreamsilk - descended down the metallic incline and formed a closely knit circle around the edges of the primary shuttle-craft. It was then that the Queen Mother had followed in her handmaiden's stead, gliding down onto the flight deck with her elegant dress, woven of pale fabric, flowing behind her every step. Keeping himself one step behind his vision of beauty, the Lord Consort and Husband to the beloved Ereneda, dipped his head as he disembarked the silently purring consular craft. The man was a head and a half taller than the woman before him and towered over all that stood behind his titanic frame. He was clad in ornate silver, fashioned to match the unspoiled flesh that lay beneath, and draped with a willowy cloak of folded marble that accented his statuesque form. It was there, afore the command craft that they had waited for their welcoming party; for it would've been rude to deny their compatriots a chance to reciprocate their arrival with an ostentatious gesture of ceremony.
Varro could only smile as his eyes bore witness to the sight before him. He had dreamed of this day for some time though it had transpired in a very different manner. Fire had rained from the sky and the embers of the ailing Republic were crushed underfoot as the Immortal Army marched towards the Senate Rotunda. All that stood in their path were mercilessly slaughtered for the simple sin of being in the wrong place, at the wrong time. Such a glorious thought, alas it was a shame that he was forced to walk the political route. It would've been all too easy to stamp out the sparks of this dying Republic, as they would've offered little contest in return. The Dark Lord did all he could to suppress the laughter boiling within his breast as he noted the cautionary gaze of his wife gaze upwards toward his funerary masque. Clearly, she had known which direction his mind had taken, and the man could do nothing more then chide himself for being so open with the woman during their mutual courtship.
"I know what you're thinking of, dear," She said with that harmonious tone of hers. "Perhaps that can happen again at another time, with something less mired in political controversy."
The Dark Lord simply nodded, for there was nothing he could say to change her mind, now that he had set it on this course. Though it would've been simple to dominate her mind, becoming the master to this newly made puppet, it would've ruined everything he had done so far; and what he would do in the future. Nevertheless, Belial had placed her upon this boring path to ensure that the Consortium remains within the good graces of the people. And even though it grated his nerves raw, patience would serve his cause well in this deed. What would the others say? He thought to himself. How uncharacteristic for a Sith of his caliber to be acting against everything that he learned from consuming the twin souls of Ahriman, and the sniveling wretch Varro.
"Yes, perhaps another time..."
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Standash Thul
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Post by Standash Thul on Dec 7, 2015 21:42:10 GMT -8
Flyovers of expert stunt pilots in chromed silver and green A-Wings performed maneuvers above, leaving a rainbow of smoke colors in their wake. They may not be combat pilots in the traditional sense, but they had the same mindset all good pilots had. The Escorts of Hapes had been impressive, their internal competitiveness mandated that be more so. Twists and turns, flips and spins, formations with an inch only separating them, they pulled out all stops.
While this was going on overhead, security armed with force pikes, in splendid green and gold armor and caps with merged crests of the families Organa and Thul marched in perfect formation and took their place. Next fifty dancers in traditional dress came out to a victory song, moving with the grace of a cat and leaping like doves. The arts were vital to Alderaan society, and the performance showed it. These were the best of the best, the most beautiful men and women the planet had.
Finally out of the palace the massive wooden doors open. The tall young princess glided out. Her gown changed colors as she moved. From green to gold to sliver and back, normally some combination of the three. Large diamond earrings hung from her ears, and a silver tiara with gems from all over the galaxy, including a large rainbow gem in the center, sat upon her head. She glides over to the queen and kisses her cheek.
Your Highness, welcome to Coruscant and to my home away from home. It is a pleasure to meet with you and great joy to have you here. Surely you must be exhausted from your travels. I have a room prepaird for you and your husband. As well as quarters for your staff. Please allow me to show you to your room.
She makes eye contact with the Lord Consort, she knew who the real power was here, and with a look she let him know.
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Darth Belial
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Post by Darth Belial on Dec 8, 2015 19:04:40 GMT -8
At first, the Queen Mother had believed the Consortium's display of martial perfection was far too ostentatious for the likes of these renowned pacifists, however as every aspect of the Alderaanian culture was put on display, she began to wish they had gone several steps further. A small sigh had eclipsed her lips as she felt overwhelmed by such trivialities, but when she had felt a massive metallic hand lovingly press down upon her shoulder, Araneya's resolve hardened into steel. While she wasn't new to the game of politics by any means, she still felt the Crown of the Mists had sat uneasily atop her brow. It had come into her possession so suddenly after her husband had left for the Kashyyyk Campaign, that even after the coronation she had felt like she was yet to be woken from a terrible dream. Drawn back into the present by the announced arrival of a woman clad in the accoutrements of royalty, the Queen Mother had found herself standing straighter and adopting a pose; that had taken several years of attending her Sister's court to perfect. She had watched the woman glide across the smoothed silvered surface of the connecting bridge, and felt a small measure of bile build within her breast. This woman, undoubtedly the Senator she had desired to meet, bore one of the many brilliant treasures of the Hapes Cluster affixed to her Tiara, along with a plethora of lustrous jewels from across the known universe.
This Senator had wealth and knew exactly how to flaunt it.
However, as the Cluster had only recently come out of their self-imposed isolation, the Queen Mother had known exactly how the Alderaanian Princess garnered such a radiant prize. Sufficed to say, it would've been less than savory. They had yet to make their introductions, and already Araneya was not impressed with what she had been presented. Perhaps, once the formalities had ended and they found themselves bereft of such fanciful attire, then such a typecast would fade. Until then, the Ereneda would find herself masking her disgust behind the pleasant façade of diplomacy. Such a placid visage held as the gaudy Senator bent in to caress her cheek in such a matter that would befit old friends. Though she was certain that it's meaning was entirely different from what she had assumed, but with the vast differences in their two cultures - the Queen Mother didn't return the gesture before the woman had pulled away.
Several of the guards, who were standing Sentinel across the breadth of the pathway, tensed in the lingering moment of silence that had followed after the friendly gesture. Their ivory gauntleted hands grasped their weapons tighter but were subtly diverted from their course of action by a menacing glare from the Queen Mother. Though the custom was indeed strange, she doubted that her life was in any danger from the gesture, especially when she held all the cards.
"I thank you for the gracious offer, Senator Thul, but I must decline." Her lips curled into a warm smile as the words had left her mouth. "There were plenty of chances for my husband and me to rest during the transit to Coruscant. Such is the benefit of having a replica of our home built to sail among the stars."
Folding her hands into one another, the Queen motions towards the doors that the Princess had passed through mere moments ago.
"We have much to discuss, you and I, and it would be such a waste to miss out on all you have prepared by sleeping through the day."
Whilst the two representatives had begun their pleasantries, Varro watched on with a vague interest. He wasn't concerned with what was being said, but rather the two woman in question. One, he had intimate knowledge of and could easily plan around her every move to ensure that he stayed a step ahead of her at every turn. The other was an interesting enigma. By the looks of her alone, he could tell that she was the byproduct of a diplomatic pairing, one that had ended some ancient feud by mixing two bloodlines together. It was an archaic method upon which to end a conflict between two warring houses, but the Dark lord could not deny how easily such things worked in this benighted age. The Senator's posture, much like his beloved Araneya's, was crafted to perfection by experience within her realm's court. It was a factor he had to admit, that he admired.
Two women from across the galaxy, standing afore one another and seemingly appearing to be similar in almost every regard. Both were maned by flowing locks of golden spun hair, and both peered out of crystalline oceans of sapphire. Were it not for their different facial features, Varro could've sworn that these two were twins. That was until he had divined their ages. She was, by far, the youngest of the trio standing amidst a crowd of armed guards. The towering Epicanthix was the oldest with over three decades of weathering hidden behind his funerary masque while the newly crowned Queen Mother was fast approaching the climax of her life. However, as she had risked a glance in his direction, one heavily laden with suggestive overtures, the Dark Lord's mind was sent in another direction entirely.
It was impossible for her to have realized that he was a Sith Lord, as not even the Jedi, whom he stood shoulder to shoulder with upon the mud-stricken soil of Kashyyyk, could tell where his true allegiances lay. What he had believed, instead of something so burdened by religious persuasion, was that this brief moment of connection had implied that he was the true power behind the Consortium. She wouldn't be wrong in such an assumption if that was the direction she had taken her line of thought, but Belial held little sway in how the Cluster had operated. In fact, everything that he had done so far was merely a cover for the truth. For how better to keep something under wraps, than by placing it within plain sight?
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Standash Thul
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Post by Standash Thul on Dec 9, 2015 0:04:22 GMT -8
Of course then.
She spoke behind her Annelise, dear. I entrust the Queen's people to your capable hands. Any need they require, attend to it. The north garden is particularly joyous this time of afternoon.
Your Highness we have much to discuss, please follow me to my office.
She leads the Queen and the Consort through the palace to a grand office. She closes the large marble and wood doors behind them, and magnetically sealed them. This as well as the anti eavesdropping measures inside the walls made the office perfectly secure.
Now that we are out of the public eye, we can dispense with the political and diplomatic show. I know I would appreciate it. If you would like a change of cloths Highness there are a variety of options in the closet a room as large as most senatorial offices its self behind you.
The young princess takes a white and purple tunic that was waiting for her, and changes in another room.
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Darth Belial
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Post by Darth Belial on Dec 9, 2015 18:44:36 GMT -8
As the Queen Mother and her Husband had entered the estate proper, those that had remained behind gathered before the growling shuttles in neatly ordered rows. It was there that they would remain, whilst their beloved Ereneda had endured the pleasantries of political discourse, ready to act should the need arise. Their rifles were clutched tightly to their ivory plated chests, and they stood in vigilant silence as time progressed ever forward. Crimson-robed Tech-Adepts from the highly advanced world of Charubah descended from the docked voidcraft and had begun their laborious routine of maintenance and prayer. By ritualizing the minutiae of their menial tasks, with hauntingly beautiful chants and pungent oils, these cybernetically enhanced beings set out perfecting the marblesque orbiters for when they were needed once more.
With the action switching towards the interior of the Alderaanian Estate, the Dark Lord and his Wife had found themselves ensconced within one of the many interconnected offices populating the Embassy. Like the exterior of the palatial structure, this chamber was a feast for the eyes but had hidden a great many details from sight. It was an unspoken expectation for surveillance equipment of all stripes to be secreted away in the most casual of places, to avoid detection or to draw one's attention away from the more sensitive paraphernalia. Such was a common practice among those who sought to rule, for how better to garner an advantage over those closest to you, than by spying upon them when they least expect it. While the truth of the matter had been that such equipment was jamming any exterior listening devices, the Queen and her Consort had fallen back upon their own private patois to discuss the matters at hand. They were confident in the knowledge, that even though many translation devices had come standard with preset sub-routines; detailing millions of spoken languages, they would be able to converse with one another - without interruption or the promise of future backlash.
It was during this moment of back and forth, that Araneya had gracefully moved towards the Closet the Senator had made mention of some time before. Pulling back the smoothed folds of metal, the woman saw a depthless variety of sewn fabrics; each a pleasant blend of vibrant colours that were styled mostly after the attire known to have been carried forth from Old Alderaan. She sighed heavily and closed the metallic armoire, leaving the outfits to languish within. From across the room, Varro could only chuckle in response. It was clear to him that this display of culture had begun to sour within her mind, leaving him to wonder just how exactly she would react if she was assaulted with such a presentation once more. He had ideas, but as his Wife had proved time and time again, she was always filled with surprises. Seeing that she had elected to wear what she had arrived in, the Dark Lord stalked across the room to help her alter the gown into something more suitable for the occasion.
Once such trivial modifications were made, the pair stood silently before the transparisteel glass and glared out into the sun backed horizon.
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Standash Thul
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Post by Standash Thul on Dec 9, 2015 20:37:45 GMT -8
They serve their purposes for the masses, but I will never find events like that... fun. But they must be done, right?
She asks this rhetorical question as she reenters the room and sits on a couch in the middle of the room. On the opposite side of a kilik silk rug depicting one of Alderaan's mountains was a larger couch. Please have a seat, let us discuss what we have come here for.
She was no nonsense now. Wisdom and incite beyond her years was present. With out being told directly she knew why they came, she let that show on her face, and perhaps more surprisingly she didn't seem afraid or bothered by it. She looked at both the queen and Consort, studying them ans they took their places. She noticed the little points, and was ready for whatever came next.
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Darth Belial
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Post by Darth Belial on Dec 20, 2015 15:18:55 GMT -8
Everything that had transpired so far was going according to plan. There was little doubt in the Dark Lord's mind that the people themselves began to doubt the choices their ruling castes had made. When greeted by the delegation of one of their allies, the Alderaanian representatives used their egregiously earned wealth to fund an extravagant display that belied understanding. Why had their leaders wasted the taxpayers dollars to impress an ally, when it was clear that they needed to do little in order to achieve such a result? More profound questions were likely to be asked in the days to come, but this was simply too easy. What better way to show the galaxy that their faith has been misplaced, than to do it publicly and upon the very core world their government is based on! With the seeds of distrust already sown throughout the galaxy, all that was left was to slide the blade home - ending this corrupt farce before it could fester further into stagnation. A savage grin adorned his lips as he watched the sun make its way towards the zenith of its cycle. Now, it was only a matter of time until the Republic had met with its inevitable fate.
It was at that moment that two things had occurred, each drawing the Dark Lord's eye. First, was that a solitary shuttle had made its descent from the heavens and had entered the Jedi Temple with little resistance. His pawns were in place and had most assuredly begun their work. The second was the rhetorical pronouncement from the Alderaanian Senator as she had made her return - further cementing the Dark Lord's vision of how wondrous the Universe would be without the wasteful institution of the Republic. Fighting the urge to break out into a hysterical fit of laughter, the Dark Lord tore himself away from the window and turned towards the interior of the lavishly decorated chamber. There he had seen his Wife, already seated in a pose that reeked of confidence, and the Senator herself just across from her. Were his assumptions not already correct, this scene would've painted both women in an equal light. However, such expectations could never come to pass.
Perhaps in a different life, when the Galaxy did not teeter upon the edge of a knife.
Refusing to sit, as the ornate couch could not sustain his towering weight, the Dark Lord instead decided to stand behind the Queen Mother with his arms crossed in a presentation of vague amusement. It was a calculated gesture, one to play upon the Senator's earlier glint of suspicion. There was nothing in his mind that he could see in order to dissuade him from the notion that this Princess would perceive him as the true power behind the Consortium's might. Though she would be wrong on all counts, save for the fact she would be secretly right, Belial couldn't help himself but to play the game of many faces. He would lead her upon a merry chase if she decided to take his bait. With the Queen Mother before him, however, she would never take what he had dangled right before her very eyes. It would disappoint the leader of the Consortium, and push her ever closer towards the conclusion of Annexation. That route could not end well for anyone, save the Queen Mother and her husband.
Thus, as his beloved began to speak, the Sith Lord merely quieted his guarded thoughts and focused upon what was taking place right before his very eyes.
"I'm going to be blunt, Princess Thul, as to ensure that there is no mistaking my words. As you are New to the Republic Senate, I am sure that you are unaware of the many flaws that have become..." She paused for a moment to find the right words, ones that would truly express her feelings towards this failed system of governance. "Cancerous growths beneath the veil of complacency. Therefore, I have come to your Capital world, to ensure two results. The first is to guarantee that you are elected to become the next Supreme Chancellor when the voting begins in a few days time. This blessing I shall bequeath, however, comes at a cost." She had said, her voice slowly drifting towards the lower octaves as her pleasant demeanor began to sour. "Which leads me into my second, and most important outcome. When you take office, your first act shall be to dismantle the Republic in its entirety, therefore liberating the galaxy from this benighted existence and ensuring it's well-being in the future. Everything that has been gifted, given, or taken by the Republic, will be returned from whence they came. Be it funds, men, material, or starships."
With her demands on the table, the Queen Mother leaned back into the couch and waited for a moment to see how the Senator would react. Her words were lure and balm, but one could never truly be sure how to react once such an ultimatum is given. "In addition," The Queen added, her tone rising once more towards the pleasant end of the spectrum. "Not only will your name be lauded by your colleagues for doing what they had failed to do, the Galaxy will hail you as a Hero for doing the right thing. However, as this is not a request, I leave you with two options to mull over. Accept my gracious offer, or don't."
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Standash Thul
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Post by Standash Thul on Jan 5, 2016 21:43:17 GMT -8
The young princess smiled.
We are in agreement then.
Why do you think I came back to this festering cesspit that is the Republic? Alderaan was fine living its own existence. Through resources and art, we had regained all we had once lost. We were happy and good. Why come here to this planet of leaches and greed? I came to see it on the underside of my boot. That has been my goal, and why I insisted on being allowed to come here and represent my people.
The months without a leader and look what has happened? People have gone on living. Their money goes to a faceless bureaucracy, and politicians out to serve themselves. Protection doesn't exist. Aid is missing. Aid is what I have used to secure the votes I need in the outer rim, because a government has failed. Their representatives could never return home if the voted against the woman from the World that saved them.
Yes we have excess, and we share it. Investors have left Alderaan and built new businesses in the poor rim worlds. Jobs and food have begun to flow. And all will be lifted up. This wasn't a government that did this, but people wanting to help.
That's what the Galaxy will be again.
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Darth Belial
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Post by Darth Belial on Jan 19, 2016 19:11:38 GMT -8
Once the rhetoric was complete, the Queen Mother sat for a moment in silence to think about what had transpired. While the outcome was far more favourable than she had hoped, there was an odd sensation ringing in the back of her mind that believed this Senator's words were hollow. While she would've pursued this feeling further, there was yet more work that needed to be done. The day was still young, and there was still more to do. Inhaling a deep breath of recycled air, Araneya stood from her seat and offered a courteous bow.
"I'm glad that we could settle this on such amicable terms. I would've hated to see what would've happened had you said otherwise. Coruscant, despite it's many blemishes, is a lovely world. Perhaps in time, we shall see it that way once again." Slowly moving towards the door, the Queen gently placed her hand atop the durasteel wall. "While it is true that some may now see you as an enemy, know that it won't be those within the Republic that seek to harm you. The Consortium has been doing what it can in regards to tracking down these spies and assassins, but even with resources as vast as ours - something always slips through our fingers." Offering up a polite smile, one dripping with as much warmth as she could muster, the Queen Mother turns her gaze away from the Senator and moves to rejoin her compatriots upon the landing pad.
Bereft of his wife, the armoured Titan turned towards the golden-maned Senator and subtly tilted his head. To those that had known the man, such an act would be considered a smile. However, as the Senator did not - who knew what she would think? His face was seemingly frozen in time behind the metallic masque, ornately wrought in his image before he had been horribly burned.
"While my beloved," He began, speaking for the first time in this woman's presence, "is right in regards to those that seek you harm, know that the Consortium does not take well to betrayal. We will do our part, and upon the morrow, she expects that you do yours. You say that the Galaxy will be for the people again, in truth, it always has been that way - whether or not a Republic believes itself to be in power. So take heart in the knowledge that not only are you freeing your people from this enforced stagnation but the much of the Galaxy as well."
As he made to follow the Queen Mother, the Dark Lord found himself smiling behind the hidden visage of his funerary mask. And so the Republic would fall, not to the thunderous echoes of war, but due to the self-inflicted wound aimed directly at the heart.
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Standash Thul
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Post by Standash Thul on Jan 22, 2016 18:25:49 GMT -8
Before you leave, I do have a request I would like you to bring before her highness.
She stares at the massive man, with no fear. She waits for him to stop before continuing, but doesn't wait for him to turn.
We both know I am sticking my neck out here. Yes I agree it needs to happen. There is something you, well your wife has that I would like to have as well.
Her eyes like steel. Not showing any weakness, but not showing any arrogance or any disrespect.
Even if she says no, I will see my part through. I did not lie before, this was why I came to this planet and the republic. I came to end it, and I will. I still have a request.
The Queen has at her command the best group of commandos and guards in the Galaxy. I do not say this to flatter, I say this because it is fact. You are a military man, a man of action. Of that I can tell. She could read more about him, not a complete picture but enough. You have seen the people I have around me. Very capable men and women, but not what someone in my position needs. They will never be, the background of my people will never allow it. I know this, and i am very sure that you are as well. I need people. 12, one squad of Chume'Doro. Yes, I know I am asking for a lot, and commandos would be easier to part with. But their loyalties I could never trust the way I need too. If I could get their loyalties with money, it could be taken from me with more. Chume'Doro I could trust, their loyalties would be to me and the Queen only. This i know without a doubt. I ask you to pass this request along. Oh and I was wanting to give her something, before you left.
She walks into the office and gets a heavy wooden box, and returns. This time she walks in front of the titan.
This is the tiara I was wearing when I met you earlier. The one with the rainbow gem. I want you to know that it has been in the Organa family for over a thousand years. It was a gift from the royal family at that time. It was a part of a touring collection when Alderaan, the first Alderaan, was destroyed. That was how it survived. I had thought wearing it earlier would unite her and I. The look on her face when she saw it told me I was wrong. I know of the thieving from her world, and wearing it reminded her of that. I am sorry for that. I wish to give it back to her. As a sign of what I hope to be a lasting friendship. I know what she thinks of me, I can read it on her face. This is separate from my other request. That was business, this is me wanting to do what is right. Will you be at the vote? My speech will be something you, and the Queen would not want to miss.
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Darth Belial
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Post by Darth Belial on Feb 14, 2016 21:31:28 GMT -8
The door was before him. If he had wanted to, the man could have merely stepped through the receding portal and had denied this woman her request without hearing it through. However; it was the lingering cloud of curiosity that had sapped the Dark Lord of his forward momentum, leaving him to stand so achingly close to the Chamber's exit. A silent sigh of irritation had slipped through the Pseudo-Jedi's lips, barely audible as the metallic opening before him swished back into its housing. She had wanted something of him, to ferry a message back to his beloved wife - yet he had sensed that there was something more behind the swirling chaos of emotions now plaguing her mind. It was painfully obvious that she was worried about the future, all mortals who were uncertain of what would come tomorrow were.
Belial couldn't blame her for being true to form.
Casting his shrouded gaze over an armoured shoulder, the Epicanthix listened to the words the Lady Thul had spoken - taking little interest in how she sought to read his body language with a steely gaze.
Her request was a simple one. She wanted some of the best, and some of the most well-trained soldiers in the known Universe to protect her in the days to come. Were it his choice to dispense the Chume'Doro at whim, he would've granted her request and been done with this charade. As that was not within his power, at least, to the outside world; such an entreaty would have to go through the proper channels and could take time. The Queen mother didn't allocate her personal Guardians to anyone who wished their protection, even those she had just made her political pawns just moments ago. Well, that was her mindset. In truth, Standash wasn't a pawn - more of a willing participant in the downfall of a corrupt establishment. One whose death has been long since overdue. Careful plans preceding this were laid to rest and ruined by the interference of petulant mortals and their petty schemes of power.
Ah well.
Upon the morrow, it would all be over, and the Honour Fleet would soon find itself sailing the bespeckled obsidian tides back home. Until then, the Dark Lord would have to suffer through the diplomatic proceedings with as much poise as he could muster. Keeping the growing malady of irritation under restraint, the Lord Consort had slowly turned about as the woman had made her way towards him - holding an ornate wooden box within her grasp. It was made clear that this held a priceless heirloom, one that had been in some royal family for generations. When the subject at hand changed to that of how wearing the Tiara, which was made apparent that such a priceless trinket was contained within the aforementioned box, had been received by the Dark Lord's beloved, he wasn't surprised that the Senator had seen that momentary flash of disgust painting Araneya's gaze. That woman was never one to truly hide her emotions, despite her advisors telling her different.
Standash was proving herself to be more than capable of handling the situation she had been tasked with, leaving the Dark Lord confident in the choice they had made before this venture had begun, and showcasing her skills as an observant Politician. With her plea and bargains coming to an end, the metal-clad Epicanthix looked down at the woman in front of him and pushed the wooden box further away with a gauntleted hand.
"While I am sure she would appreciate your apologetic words and this gesture of friendship, it's a token I cannot accept. This Tiara belonged to the Organa family for generations as you've made mention, and my beloved is quick to make snap judgements. That being said, she is never one to swallow her pride and make amends." He paused for a moment to carefully consider his words, before speaking once more, "Therefore, as you have considered us to be friends, I will have to inform you that I cannot carry your request to my Wife. The Chume'Doro are sworn to the Queen Mother and her alone, so it would be next to impossible to have them stationed with anyone outside of the Royal Bloodline."
Tilting his head and shaping his tone to become more jovial, the Dark Lord continued, "I can, however, order two squads of Her Majesty's Select Commandos to be assigned to your detail. They are just as capable as the Chume'Doro, yet are not afforded the same weaponry and station as their female counterparts. Consider them to be the Consortium's Suicide Squads, if you will excuse the embellishment. There isn't any other explanation than that, which can adequately describe what they are and what they can do. They're crude but extremely effective in the field. They'd blend in well with your current staff, and none would be the wiser. It may not be what you desire of us, but it is the best compromise I can offer. You're welcome to take it or leave it at your leisure."
Looking pointedly at the door, Belial concludes his response with a hidden smile, before turning around and leaving the chamber behind in it's entirety. "Now, I must go before impatience colours my beloved's humours even further. I assume you know how to get your people in touch with mine, so I won't bore you with the tedium of how to contact us. Take your time in this choice, we both know there are greater things on the horizon than having a dedicated group of soldiers at your back or not. Nevertheless, we will see you again when the time comes. Until, Chancellor Thul."
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Standash Thul
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Post by Standash Thul on Feb 28, 2016 22:06:20 GMT -8
After the election had ended and Standash's announcement every senate office and embassy was rushing and running ragged making arrangements. The more corrupt were trying to solidify their power bases only to find them drying up. No crime lords or dirty businessmen were interested in backing a politician without an office. The clean ones were looking at what they were going to do now. They were making arrangements to get sensitive documents destroyed or transferred to offices on the home planets. All were upset at the young princess. She couldn't blame the clean ones for feeling this way. They thought she surrendered, and abandoned the people. She hoped in time that they would see the truth, that the republic was beyond saving and needed to die. Some probably realized it already.
There was one exception among the chaos. The Alderaanian palace had an eerie calm to it. Those inside had no idea what they were going to be doing. Standash had kept her plans secret from most even inside the embassy. Annelise, a speechwriter, and the Hapeans were the only ones that knew what her plans were. They were waiting and unsure what to do.
The hoverlimo entered the mansion's grounds and landed. The former Chancellor turned to the armored soldier. So we are now under the protection of the Alderaanian Guard, that means that you are off duty. And you can have this. She pulls out a bottle and pours a glass. Whyrren's Reserve, something you are familiar with I believe.
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Ophelia Ashern
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Post by Ophelia Ashern on Feb 29, 2016 16:34:19 GMT -8
*The Sergeant looked down at her tac-pad, located on her left forearm. It was updating the security detail in real-time, and listed the flag as having been transferred to the Alderaan Embassy. There was a call on her internal radio just about the same time that Ophelia saw the third car in the motorcade pull up alongside the limo. The voice on the other end inquiring if the Master Sergeant required a lift. Reaching up to her commlink, she replied shortly with a "No" before looking on to see Standash pouring her a glass of an amber-colored liquor. She was about to politely-refuse the offer again when she heard the Princess mention the glass' contents, and how she may have some degree of familiarity with the brand. Thinking back, the soldier remembered on the day that she received the news of her impending promotion; how her Commander had walked into her quarters with a wooden case carrying a bottle of the fine vintage. It was difficult to acquire certain batches of the brand, the woman realized, and she could have sworn that she saw the notation on the side of the bottle that Standash was pouring from -- the fabled batch numbered "NN182", said to be so expensive only certain nobility could afford even a bottle of it. That it was so readily-available to someone such as the Thul family spoke greatly of their wealth.*Accepting the glass when it was offered, Ophelia looked upon it as though it were something fragile, carefully easing the glass into her hands. She didn't allow any emotion to show on her face; however, inside she was earnestly desiring to taste the vaunted prize of Corellia. Raising the glass to her lips, she took a moment to smell the liquid. The familiar tinge of burning hit her nose first, followed by the scent of the oaken finish from the liquor's cask that it had been aged in for over thirty years. It was then that she allowed herself to sip the liquid, the first contact of it hitting her lips and the immediate numbing sensation only whiskey tended to give her. She allowed it to mull over her tongue as she absorbed the flavor, burning the memory of its taste into her mind. As she took the glass down from her mouth, she looked up at Standash, raising the glass a little as she visibly relaxed.
"I really must thank you for your hospitality, Princess Thul. However, I am considerably-curious as to why you've asked me here today, in such an immediate fashion only an hour after the most grandiose news of this age has been delivered by your former office. Is there something wrong?"
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Standash Thul
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Post by Standash Thul on Mar 4, 2016 0:01:50 GMT -8
Not really, but it is not really something we should be talking about out here. Come inside, you can get into a change of cloths. Unless you would rather stay in armor. We can discuss things later. It is not exactly that time sensitive.
Her eyes were watching her plans fall into place, designs coming through. Things she had hoped for. Ophelia was a part of that, but Standash couldnt seem to eager, that may ruin things. She had worked too hard at everything to make that mistake.
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Ophelia Ashern
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Post by Ophelia Ashern on Apr 4, 2016 10:59:02 GMT -8
Ophelia grinned.
"All evidence to the contrary, as it would seem. However, I'm inclined to agree. Allow me to call back my team lead. He should have my tac-bag in the back of his unit. It holds a spare change of clothes, and my other...essentials."
*To which, she was referring to her more-prized elements - the handguns that she so tediously took care of. Her knife rested at the small of her back, and she'd likely be taking that, too. Beyond that, she would feel terribly disarmed. The "weapons of choice" here were ones she hadn't used in quite some time - politics, elegance...deception. In the end, she supposed it was like riding a swoop. She would just have to get back into the feel of it again.*
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Standash Thul
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Post by Standash Thul on Apr 4, 2016 13:43:03 GMT -8
As you wish... Just know that no weapons will be allowed past this courtyard. The embassy is an extension of Alderaan after all. Things are in motion, and they will wait for no one. Despite this, rushing into things is a recipe for disaster. I have worked too hard to have something like rushing ruin things.
All her pocking and prodding was to find out if the woman was the one Standash needed. Seeing how she overcame situations, dealt with being uncomfortable situations, how she adapted. Standash needed a soldier yes, but she also needed much more.
An aid came up with a bag on his shoulders, a case with wheels was rolling behind him, pushed by a droid. He was tall and handsome. Fit, built like a gymnast. His voice a sweet tenor bordering on alto. He wore a security uniform and had an stun baton on his hip.
This was delivered for our guest your highness. The um... items that do not pass security are in the case. Is there anything else I can do for you?
Standash watched the exchange closely to see how the woman would respond.
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Ophelia Ashern
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Post by Ophelia Ashern on Apr 4, 2016 19:40:22 GMT -8
The woman grinned, nonplussed.*She knew well enough the rules and restrictions of Embassy regulations. There were, however, exceptions to those rules. Ophelia happened to be one of those.*
"While I do understand the rules by which most would need to abide, I must insist on taking my...items. As a Master Sergeant of the former Republic and a still-ranking officer of the Coruscant Defense Force, I am both entitled and permitted to carry firearms within any governmental facility - either domestic or foreign." She looked back to Standash. "However, if you believe it will keep your security at ease - knowing that I am unarmed - then I will refrain from carrying my personal arms; so long as they are secured at the front gate of this estate."
She would then remove her rifle from its sling, taking care to eject the clip from its housing and sliding it into her utility belt. Powering down the T.D.S., the rifle was now considered inert, and she would hold it out before her so the aide could retrieve it. Following that, she'd also remove her other backup weapon and her knife. Knowing that this was an inopportune moment, she would only lend another grin to the man in front of her, as she would also unload her grenade belt, utility belt, and a second set of hidden throwing darts with their holster onto the growing pile of armaments that the man would carry.
"There...I believe that covers it. Are you satisfied? I know I am." She'd offer a wink at that.
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Standash Thul
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Post by Standash Thul on Apr 6, 2016 16:25:32 GMT -8
The young officer looked as if he was going to protest. Standash shot him an icy glare that made the man, nearly ten years her senior back down quietly. He took it all into the protective case, and walked off.
It is not even really a security issue. My people like to pretend that the universe isn't as depraved as it is. So where they can control it they take it away. Their are hidden battle stations above Alderaan that the masses no nothing about. Few outside of the royal family do. We are a culture that spurs the thought of weapons. I thank you for understanding.
Come get changed for refreshments, we have much to discuss.
With that the princess turned and headed into the small palace. Her shimmering gown flowing as she walked.
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