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Post by Nicademus Delvardus IV on Oct 20, 2018 22:38:33 GMT -8
Nicademus was more than glad to see this charade finally done with. He knew full well why Viox was here ever since it was reported that his ship was coming to Muunilinst. In fact, ever since the report of Maric's death was the Emperor aware of the Sith's impending arrival. It was only a matter of time after all. It seemed though that the Imperial had gotten the upperhand by mentioning the Blackguard by its very name. That alone cause Viox to collapse first and give up the charade... and yet, the Imperial remained as disciplined as ever before. He leans back in his chair, relaxed and composed as ever.
I have known of your organizations existence ever since I heard of two interesting factions.
The Emperor raises two fingers for Lord Savage to see.
One, your raid on Mustafar in the southern Outer Rim. Rather convenient for a raid considering the strong presence of Sith and Dark Jedi history within that region. And two, the formation of a so-called CIS successor state. That alone gave me the indication that an organization existed as it was diplomacy that was not conducted with the intention of the First Order's interests, but rather another's interests.
The Emperor lowers his hand afterward, looking directly into the eyes of Lord Savage.
And before you consider a witch hunt, the one who spoke of this was a slip of the tongue and someone I have not heard of being in your presence for a long time since. However, he did come with the full intent of informing me of this CIS state... the other tidbits were just slips from what I can gauge.
The Imperial rises from his chair, turning slightly to look at the holoscreen as it changes to the asteroid field of Bilbringi. An odd beauty considering the many wandering asteroids... a place where another Sith faction once hid till the First Order wiped them clean from the galaxy. Not even a single soldier within his army was a former member of those ranks. Bilbringi was retribution for the debacle that was Prakith.
Not to mention the usage of Bilbringi shipyards for some... rather powerful ships. That raised further questions in mind when it was reported of their construction and then their sudden disappearance. Not for Iridonia, but beyond the First Order from what I can tell. You needed quite the resources in order to construct those ships without my noticing.
Then the holoscreen changed once more... to the planet of Felucia. Nicademus glances at the image of the jungle world, knowing nothing of what truly happened, but the galaxy surely felt what happened. The flaw was using a Resurgent-class Star Destroyer, used by a high ranking member of his military.
Furthermore, the galaxy knows of a sudden and violent raid by Sith on the planet of Felucia. Only a Sith of your caliber could have pulled such a feat off... but would still require quite the resources and manpower to pull it off right. Not to mention the proper transportation to pull the necessary amount of forces there to bring destruction to the so-called 'Protectors' of this galaxy we live in.
The Imperial turns to the Sith Lord.
Sith are very good at hiding... but its different when someone is well informed, perhaps even educated, on how they operate and perform. You have performed quite the amazing feats across the galaxy, Viox. I watched as an observer and all I can say is... well done at the revitalization of the Sith.
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Viox Savage
Blackguard Imperium
"You want the same as me. My redemption, eternal ascension. Setting me free."
Posts: 2,938 
Affiliation: Sith Order
Traffic Light: Blue
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Post by Viox Savage on Oct 20, 2018 23:15:13 GMT -8
As the Imperial rattled off all of the pieces of the puzzle, putting them neatly into place, the Zabrak merely watched the hologram flip between Bilbringi and Felucia. Everything he had done up until Felucia, was meant to toe the line ever so slightly to see just how informed Nicademus was. And to his surprise, the Imperial had put it together much sooner and also much later than he had anticipated. As for who let it slip, in the aftermath of Mustafar, he already knew Xakire, his now missing former apprentice, had run back to Nicademus and informed him of the possible CIS resurgent and the Sith being active again. None of it had directly tied him to any of it, at the time, at least. Bilibringi was the true moment where he had thumbed his nose at the First Order. From there, he had only grown more bold, pushing that line without directly crossing it. The last act of defiance was using Nicademus' own High Admiral to further his own goals. It was only a matter of time before Nicademus had been able to piece it together. And he had done exactly that.
"It seems you've done your homework. Well done. Any lesser being wouldn't have caught on to what I was trying to accomplish..."
The Sith trailed off, almost regretting what was going to happen next. Almost. Returning his gaze to the Imperial, the Zabrak stepped forward.
"An uneasy, yet mutually beneficial alliance could have been possible, you know?"
The Zabrak cackled at the notion, knowing full well he never intended for an alliance between them. Plucking row of campaign medals that adorned the left side of his chest, the Zabrak slid them off of his uniform and casually tossed them aside. Unbuttoning his lapel, the Zabrak spun about and seated himself upon the Emperor's desk. Clearing is throat, he spoke once more, malice dripping from his every word.
"I could end it all. Right here, right now. Just like that."
The Zabrak snaps the fingers on his right hand together and chuckles.
"Poor little Octavian and...what was it...Fiora! Yes. Poor little children growing up without a father. Raised by that whore shape-shifter of a mother while their legacy turns to ash around them..."
The metaphorical gloves were off now. While he didn't come here to fight, he couldn't resist indulging in a little harmless taunting. After all, this was the Imperial capital. The leaders of two powerful faction were in the same room. Killing Nicademus was the easy part. But living long enough to escape? Even with his enhanced abilities, he'd be dead before he reached the landing platform. Certainly, the idea had crossed his mind. Take all of his secrets to the grave with him and plunge the galaxy into a level of chaos and unrest that hadn't been seen in several millenia. Leaderless, the First Order and the Blackguard Reborn would crumble. It might take a few years, but they both would fall. But truly, where was the fun in that? No. Nicademus would live. And he would walk freely from here, to disappear back into the Outer Rim. He could guarantee that as he certainly wasn't so stupid as to arrive here without some sort of plan in mind. He always had some sort of plan or deeper motive to his actions. And this situation was no different, thought it certainly wasn't progressing as he had imagined. Much less shouting and much more proper negotiating. Though if his latest taunt didn't get a reaction, he'd start to question if this actually was the Emperor of the First Order or not. Either way, he was going to take pleasure in how this was going to play out. And even though he was happily taunting Nicademus, the barely contained maelstrom of rage still swirled within, ready to blow up in the blink of an eye...
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Post by Nicademus Delvardus IV on Oct 21, 2018 7:17:22 GMT -8
There was a moment of silence after Viox spoke. Then came a laugh that emitted from the Imperial's mouth, Nicademus was laughing, laughing because of what was said. It lasted only for a mere few seconds though. The Emperor shaking his head slightly as he gestures to the banner of the First Order.
The Old Empire fell apart due to the missing cruelty of Darth Sidious and the presence of Darth Vader. I am confident that if I were to die at this very moment, the Empire would endure. It all comes down employing the right people and ensuring that they are within the right positions. It could even last through the regency of my son till Octavian is of age to be the ruler that he was meant to be.
The Imperial had long anticipated death ever since forming the First Order. It was the resurgence in the galaxy that had been unantcipated and quite literally blazed across the northern parts of the galaxy. The machine that was this Empire could only be stopped by his command it seemed. And, at the same time, Nicademus knew that Viox needed the existence of this Empire. It was a large enough threat to keep others off of his trail. The Blackguard was built within the shadow of the First Order as it launched campaigns here and there, and now it had been strong enough to strike at the heart of the Jedi. Nothing less of Viox's expertise. Nicademus was aware of something that the Sith Lord was not though, this was all coming full circle... for it was his mentor, the Sith Lord, that founded the foundations of what became the First Order today. And by that effect, it gave Viox the shadow he needed to lurk within to build up his power base.
Yet, Lord Savage, we know... we both know... that our deaths would be an unnecessary waste at this moment. Without us, can the galaxy truly change? We are alike in a simple way, we are visionaries and we seek to impose that vision on the galaxy. And it has caused deep ripples. No one in the galaxy expected what has come today. And we have broken the stagnation of this galaxy by force and by our visions.
The Emperor still remains calm and composed as ever. He knew Viox wasn't stupid enough to kill him now and not be able to escape to gloat about the achievement. It would have been a waste of exerted energy after all. Nicademus once more looks at the banner of the First Order.
I also know why else you have come here, Viox. It has been anticipated and expected. The question is though where do we go from here.
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Viox Savage
Blackguard Imperium
"You want the same as me. My redemption, eternal ascension. Setting me free."
Posts: 2,938
Affiliation: Sith Order
Traffic Light: Blue
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Post by Viox Savage on Oct 21, 2018 8:06:32 GMT -8
Sound reasoning, as always. Even if he deemed Nicademus unworthy of his current title of Emperor, he did respect the man, though he'd never openly admit it. It was Nicademus' determination and will that had brought about the rise of the First Order. And it was Viox's determination and manipulative nature that brought about the unification and rise of the Sith. Along with help from his Jen'ari, Darth Malvus. Or better known to the Imperial before him as Valstrol Horica. The Zabrak was aware of the relationship between Horica and the Emperor. It was no secret, though it was not common knowledge either. Malvus played key roles in the rise of both the First Order and the Blackguard Reborn. It was one of the few reasons that had stayed his blade. That, and the fact that killing Nicademus here was truly no fun at all. Shifting to a serious tone for a moment, the Sith nodded in agreement.
"We certainly share common ambitions...and are willing to impose our visions upon the galaxy, true..."
The Sith trailed off for a moment, lost in thought. After allowing his mind to wander for a few moments, he came back to the present, fierce yellow eyes darting back over to the Imperial.
"Then you know I have come to seeking retribution for the...murder of one of my agents..."
Pushing himself up off of the Imperial's desk, uniform hanging unbuttoned on the Zabrak's muscular frame, the Sith strode around to the holo of Felucia still being displayed. Running his prosthetic hand across the railing, he spoke once more.
"I know not the details nor do they particularly interest me at this point in time...but I know one of my agents was murdered by one of your Knights...which brings us to the heart of the matter."
As he came to the end of the railing, he turned to face the Imperial, the barely contained rage within, evident on his tattooed face.
"What do you plan on doing about it...?"
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Post by Nicademus Delvardus IV on Oct 21, 2018 8:27:49 GMT -8
Finally, the heart of the matter. The murder of Agent Maric by the blade of his Imperial Knight, Brock Ferrum.
I believe you should be interested in the details, Lord Savage. It might enlighten you a bit.
Nicademus reaches forward and taps a few buttons on his desk, allowing the transfer of the report by Grandmaster Faina Nikulin to Viox's comlink. It would detail the whole mission of Drall and the aftermath that led to Maric's sudden death. The Emperor remains in his chair, for now, looking at the report himself.
The Grandmaster reported that, due to taunting my Imperial Knights, one lost their nerve and severed his head. Apparently, Maric was gloating over the fact that he had killed an orphanage of children... a typical taunt, whether it was true or false. It seems tensions were high from the moment they extracted the ISB agent from the surface of Drall. A holorecording will explain the rest.
Nicademus had reviewed the recording beforehand, noticing how Brock questioned why they were sent to retrieve a Sith agent, but Maric seemed to have pushed the buttons of his Imperial Knight just right. True, Brock hated the Sith with a passion, but it was likely Maric's words that pushed him over the edge and ensured his head was severed from his neck. The Emperor keys up the holorecording for Viox to hear.
Grandmaster Faina has already confined the Imperial Knight to his quarters and taken him off further missions. I have ordered for him to enter disciplinary re-education till further notice as well. Depending on the results of this, he will either stay within the Knights or be removed without hesitation.
Nicademus glances back at Lord Savage.
Unless you have some suggestion in mind.
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Viox Savage
Blackguard Imperium
"You want the same as me. My redemption, eternal ascension. Setting me free."
Posts: 2,938
Affiliation: Sith Order
Traffic Light: Blue
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Post by Viox Savage on Oct 21, 2018 9:12:05 GMT -8
The Sith listened intently. Being quite involved in Maric's activities, he was well versed in the agent's past assignments. None of which had involved the massacre of an orphanage. Despite his true nature as a Sith, children were not to be helplessly murdered, as they had so much untapped potential. While he himself had done vile things to attain children, he'd never resort to the slaughter of them unless force to do so by the actions of others. Also, tactically speaking, slaughtering children held no strategic value, even to the Blackguard. He was angry, yes. But Maric bit off more than he bargained for by gloating in such a fashion. And now he'd have to investigate as to whether or not the Sith agent's gloats held any truth. The arrival of the pirates were also rather troubling, as they seemed to be more organized than originally thought. Possibly something he could use later on. But back to the matter at hand. Maric's death. Nicademus was being surprisingly accommodating about the issue. Going so far as to include him in the possible punishment of his own Knight. Normally he'd have the Knight in question killed outright, but playing this out diplomatically could also bear some sort of fruit.
"I'll have my A.I begin reviewing Maric's previous assignments upon my return to Iridonia. If there is any truth in the matter in question, I see no reason to exceed the disciplinary actions you have already dealt. Maric was a good agent...perhaps too good. If he indeed is responsible for the atrocity he claimed to be, he received the punishment already...but..."
And here was the punch line. The Zabrak looked over to the Imperial and grinned malevolently.
"If my agent is found innocent of the crimes he spoke of, you will release the Knight in question from your employment immediately. And you will inform me personally of his release. In doing so, it will clear any lingering...animosity between us. And then I will be free to pursue and punish the former Knight as I see fit..."
At this point, the Zabrak chuckled, still grinning. But it wasn't a humorous chuckle, it was far more chilling. Eyeing the Imperial for a few moments longer, the Zabrak spun on his heel to face the hologram once more.
"Failure to comply to the simple terms will result in more...drastic measures...I'm afraid. Felucia was merely the beginning. Agree and I leave here as a neutral party. Disagree, fail to hold up the terms, or continue to aid the Knight in question after their release and I leave here as your enemy...and being the visionaries that we both are, you know that having me as your enemy is...unhealthy..."
Still smirking, the Sith turned to face the Imperial as he paced around the office, no longer interested in showing Nicademus the professional courtesy that his title as Emperor afforded.
"You strive to leave a lasting legacy, while creating a unified and organized galaxy, free from the chaos and madness that still grips at it. As a neutral party, I am inclined to allow your vision to continue...as your enemy, however, I will do everything in my power to undo everything you've managed to accomplish thus far. And given what I've managed to accomplish, you know the lengths I will go to, to ensure I accomplish what I set out to do..."
It was a very thinly and poorly veiled ultimatum. Agree to the simple request and everyone left here no worse for wear. Disagree and the Blackguard would no longer go out of it's way to avoid Imperial patrols, worlds and assets. Anything standing in the way of the Blackguard's goals would be fair game. And even though the First Order was still in a position to come out on top, were the Blackguard and the First Order to go to war with each other, both he and Nicademus knew that the cost of a war on that scale would be incredibly high. Surely too high to keep harboring one insignificant Knight, should he be found guilty of murder. The ball, as it were, was now in the Emperor's court. And the Sith'ari was rather curious as to what Nicademus would choose...
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Post by Nicademus Delvardus IV on Nov 1, 2018 15:18:26 GMT -8
Nicademus looks calmly upon the Sith Lord, taking in the threat laid before him. He could tell two things from it; it was both a bluff and a reality. At present, the Imperial suspected the bluff was merely present to make him think and ponder on how valid it was. Considering the ships built at Bilbringi, the Sith was gathering his forces and preparing for the future. At this stage, it was a bluff. However, over time, the threat could become a reality. Just as the First Order before, Viox and his organization were in a period of growth which was a double-edged sword. It was an opportunity to be exploited by those growing, but an opportunity for those who were their opponents to also exploit. With Viox at the command, he suspected that the growth was well underway at this point. The Emperor merely nods his head before speaking.
I believe we understand each other quite well, Lord Savage, and in agreement with what must be done and the consequences that will come, depending on the end result. I plan for my senior leadership within Imperial Intelligence to also go over the records and actions of Agent Maric. Apparently, he stated that this mission to slaughter children was a mission given by the Imperial Security Bureau... and I would like to know if someone did give that order or not.
Nicademus had other plans, but that was for another time and talk with Director Merrik.
If anyone ever gave that order, then the only suspect has already been executed. The former Central Commander Yularen, the infamous architect of the mess that was Naboo... he never understood my goals and ideals. He clashed with them and would have rather seen the Old Empire be renewed instead of my own vision for this Empire. A fool he was... and if I learned that that man gave such an order, I will see his corpse exhumed from that shallow grave I left him in and hurled into the sun of Muunilinst.
There was a dark tone in the voice of the Emperor at the mention of Yularen, a name slashed out of the Imperial Records since his execution within this very room. Nicademus did not hide the truth from all those who heard of his execution. The Central Commander attempted to blatantly lie and talk his way out of trouble caused by the debacle of Naboo. His execution was made public only hours after the deed was done as an example to all who attempted to weasel their way out of tight situations. Months later, Director Merrik was named his successor and proved far more worthy of the position.
Nonetheless, we will get to bottom of this and be able to know the truth. It is an uneasy thought that we share... the destruction of an orphanage and its occupants. This is not the violent nature of the Old Empire... and even in your eyes, I can see that you too are uneasy about this situation placed before us.
Nicademus taps his fingers a few times before rising from his chair.
I will be in touch with Director Merrik on this situation and those assigned to examine ISB records for any light that can be shed on this. Once all is compiled, we will meet again and understand the truth or the falsity of this... circumstance involving Agent Maric.
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Viox Savage
Blackguard Imperium
"You want the same as me. My redemption, eternal ascension. Setting me free."
Posts: 2,938
Affiliation: Sith Order
Traffic Light: Blue
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Post by Viox Savage on Nov 9, 2018 14:25:39 GMT -8
Smirking, the Sith raised an eyebrow in disbelief. Nicademus was many things. But accommodating to such a threat. That was interesting. Though, he was a smart man. No one man was worth the price of war. Either against the powerhouse military of the First Order or the ferocity of the Sith. Both foes presented their fair share of challenges to overcome. And given his recent history throughout the galaxy, he was probably one of the only groups that were capable of even remotely taking the First Order head on. Not that it mattered. He had more important things to attend to than waging a war against someone that would most likely stomp out his ambitions and goals through sheer martial might. He may have been crazy, but he certainly wasn't stupid. And as fun as it would be, breaking all of the Emperor's shiny new toys, it wasn't in the cards. At least not yet.
"Indeed."
The Sith turned on his heel and took a few steps towards the doors before pausing and turning to face the Emperor once more.
"I may be a great many things, Nicademus. But, even you know that most Sith don't simply slaughter children, as it serves no purpose other than to fuel the desire of wanton slaughter. As...vicious as I can be, I assure you, children are much more valuable to me alive. Though, even if I have drawn many to my banner, there are those who do not see as I do..."
The Sith trailed off and his gaze slowly drifted to the floor. He was truly saddened by the fact that there were still Sith out there that couldn't see past the archaic teaching of ancient, dead Sith. Despite that a lot of his own beliefs were still and always would be based off of such teachings, the future generations would still benefit from everything he was accomplishing. And perhaps, in the distant future, the Sith truly could become a united group within the galaxy and stop falling victim to the power struggles and infighting that plagued them, even to this day. Pushing such thoughts from his head, he returned his gaze to the Emperor once more.
"We'll be in touch, Nicademus. Until next time..."
With a smirk, the Sith extended his right hand and summoned the medals and campaign ribbons he had discarded earlier. With a jingling smack, the medals were in the palm of his hand as he strode out of the Emperor's office. One day, he would return as the conqueror of the First Order. But for the time being, he would leave the First Order alone and focus on his own machinations. Besides. Rumours were beginning to reach his ears that a long dead sect of Jedi had begun to gain traction once more. If that were the case, he'd have a new enemy to focus on for the time being. And with the galaxy currently in flux, who knows, perhaps Nicademus would have his hands full again soon, with a resurgent Galactic Alliance...? One could only hope...
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John Tien
The First Order
Posts: 122
Affiliation: The First Order
Traffic Light: Green
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Post by John Tien on Dec 11, 2018 20:03:53 GMT -8
John had landed a few moments ago and was immediately escorted to the Emperor's Office. When the door opens John walks in and is once again amazed at how far the First Order had come judging by the engineering of the office before remembering why he was here and knelt to his new Emperor.
=John=
Emperor Delvardus, I would like to first say that I apologize for my absence. I ask for your forgiveness.
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Post by Nicademus Delvardus IV on Dec 11, 2018 21:20:23 GMT -8
The Emperor was presently reviewing reports as the galaxy had changed ever since the sack of Mon Calamari and the end of the Galactic Alliance. Despite the relative peace, the Imperial war machine continued to move forward. New technology was developed, troops were trained properly, and all other necessities within the Empire. In fact, just a few days ago, the Emperor's son and heir, Octavian, began his first training with Imperial Knights, under the tutelage of the veterans Faina, Brock, and Kortos.
The focus on the reports shifted away though as Nicademus turns to see Moff Tien, one of the oldest Imperials he had ever known. He turns fully now to face the fellow Imperial. His person still dressed in the typical military fashion of Imperial Officers as ever. Except that the old emblems of the Empire were gone and were replaced, upon the shoulders, with the emblem of the First Order. Nearby was a pair of red-armored Imperial Knights while the room was guarded by at least six Stormtroopers, each bearing the new armor of the First Order.
Moff Tien, your return is most welcomed. I knew it was you the moment Admiral Arcavius reported the presence of the flagship of the Ninth Fleet.
Nicademus knew that Tien tended to keep to the far reaches of the Outer Rim and communication between the two seemed to have ceased for a time. However, the Imperial did not seem at all upset with John's disappearance. He motions for the Moff to rise.
It is good that you have returned to the fold. Much has happened since your disappearance.
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John Tien
The First Order
Posts: 122
Affiliation: The First Order
Traffic Light: Green
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Post by John Tien on Dec 11, 2018 22:51:13 GMT -8
John rose and nodded at the Emperor's words. His face didn't show it, but he felt relived that his absence and return hadn't caused too much of an inconvenience.
=John=
Much has changed, indeed. Congratulations on becoming Emperor, by the way. I didn't think anyone would take the title after Cade Fel went missing. I've also noticed that we have some new ships in the fleet, I would like to see how well they preform in combat sometime.
John never did formally recognize Empress Sinestra as the ruler of the Imperial Remnant, in fact that's what started these periods of absence in the first place. He had been searching for his old friend and Emperor, but, as Nicademus had said, much had changed. His latest expedition into the Unknown Regions had dealt a serious blow to any hope John had on finding Cade alive.
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Post by Nicademus Delvardus IV on Dec 12, 2018 7:15:03 GMT -8
Nicademus knew that Tien wasn't the only person who was searching for Cade Fel. Xeonon, himself, before returning to the services of the Emperor, had sought out clues of the missing Fel Emperor, which took him to the Unknown Regions before the trail went absolutely cold. By now, Cade Fel was either dead or not wanting to be found at all.
I have long aspired to be Emperor, Moff Tien. But the Empire left by Sinistra was a dying man... I could not save her. Yet, the foundations I built for the First Order were on firmer ground and thriving soil. When my children, Octavian and Fiora, were conceived within Empress Illaria, my aspirations came closer to fruition. Now the Delvardus dynasty stands as the successors to the Fels and has a mighty empire to rule over.
When it became known to him that the Imperial was to be a father, he knew that his destiny was close at hand. Octavian was taking on the trappings of an Imperial Knight, following the example and tradition set by the Fel Dynasty before. A tradition that would endure within the Delvardus family from this point onward.
If you are talking about the Resurgent-class Battlecruisers, then you do not need to worry about their performance. They are the finest warships to be added to the revived Imperial Navy. They have done well in smashing through Galactic Alliance fleets and bringing an end to that government.
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John Tien
The First Order
Posts: 122
Affiliation: The First Order
Traffic Light: Green
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Post by John Tien on Dec 12, 2018 16:55:08 GMT -8
John was glad to hear the news that the First Order had thrived and won a war against the Galactic Alliance. A small thought in the back of his mind was to watch out for Rebel activity in any sectors formerly under GA control, but that was his experiences in Palpatine's Empire talking.
=John=
I am glad to hear that, Emperor Delvardus. It is my hope that you and your dynasty will rule the First Order for all time.
His tone was sincere, John knew that if Nicademus had led the First Order this far, then there was no other person more worthy of the title of Emperor. After a moment of thought he straightened up and gave his new Emperor a salute.
=John=
If you'll still have me, I would like to return to active service in the First Order. I have regained control of the Planet Thule and the men and women of the 9th Fleet stand ready for your orders, sir.
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Post by Nicademus Delvardus IV on Dec 12, 2018 20:52:48 GMT -8
The Emperor looks at Moff Tien, his face looking rather contemplative for a moment. Thule was a bit of way away, it would be more suitable if the Moff was situated on a world within the First Order's main territories. However, he knew of the Moff's history and connection to Thule. Maybe someday he could convince him to move within the main territories, but for now, Nicademus would accept it.
I thank you for your offer and more than happily accept, Moff Tien. You and your loyal man will serve well as the Imperial Ninth Fleet.
The Emperor keys up a holomap, gesturing to the shipyard worlds of Yaga Minor and Bilbringi that were closeby.
Utilize our shipyards to bring your fleet up to date on First Order standards. Caste aside the old armor of the Empire and adopt the new weaponry and standards of our Stormtroopers and infantry. Modernize yourselves to full be integrated into the new Empire.
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John Tien
The First Order
Posts: 122
Affiliation: The First Order
Traffic Light: Green
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Post by John Tien on Dec 12, 2018 21:50:15 GMT -8
John made a mental note to update his galaxy maps with all the First Order's holdings when the Ninth Fleet and its ground force got their refits. It would take multiple trips to and from the shipyards, but he estimated that a full refit could be completed within a month or so while still maintaining a sizable garrison on Thule and Sivvi. The only potential snag came from Warleader and his Clone Wars-era droids and ships but that was likely only a minor problem.
=John=
We will begin immediately, sir. Is there anything else you want to discuss before I do so?
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Harnan Ren
Knights of Ren
Posts: 601
Affiliation: Knights of Ren
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Post by Harnan Ren on Jan 12, 2019 13:53:56 GMT -8
Harnan was never particularly fond of the Imperial Capital. He always made his best effort to avoid having to be posted here, preferring the solitude of his Fortress on Prakith. But today he had business with Nicademus that could not be left to mere holocommunications. Which was why he was on Muunilinst, stalking the halls of the Imperial Strategic Command toward the Emperors office. The stormtrooper guards at the door stepping aside at the sight of Harnan's black armour clad form. The Imperial Knights remained unmoved, but did not impede his progress.
As usual, he forced the doors open with his sheer physical strength alone, before striding through into the office. The doors closing behind him as he stared across the room at Nicademus, ignoring the Praetorian Guards that were present and undoubtedly ready to fight him at a moments notice. He removed his helmet then, making Nicademus acutely aware this Harnan's gaze was fully upon the him
Nicademus... If you wouldn't mind dismissing your dogs... I need to discuss something with you...
Upon inspection of Harnan, one would notice that his spear, shield, and saber hilt were all absent from their usual places upon his body. True, he was a Force User. But he had walked into a Lion's Den unarmed, which would certainly count for something
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Post by Nicademus Delvardus IV on Jan 13, 2019 7:33:06 GMT -8
John made a mental note to update his galaxy maps with all the First Order's holdings when the Ninth Fleet and its ground force got their refits. It would take multiple trips to and from the shipyards, but he estimated that a full refit could be completed within a month or so while still maintaining a sizable garrison on Thule and Sivvi. The only potential snag came from Warleader and his Clone Wars-era droids and ships but that was likely only a minor problem.=John= We will begin immediately, sir. Is there anything else you want to discuss before I do so? Harnan was never particularly fond of the Imperial Capital. He always made his best effort to avoid having to be posted here, preferring the solitude of his Fortress on Prakith. But today he had business with Nicademus that could not be left to mere holocommunications. Which was why he was on Muunilinst, stalking the halls of the Imperial Strategic Command toward the Emperors office. The stormtrooper guards at the door stepping aside at the sight of Harnan's black armour clad form. The Imperial Knights remained unmoved, but did not impede his progress.
As usual, he forced the doors open with his sheer physical strength alone, before striding through into the office. The doors closing behind him as he stared across the room at Nicademus, ignoring the Praetorian Guards that were present and undoubtedly ready to fight him at a moments notice. He removed his helmet then, making Nicademus acutely aware this Harnan's gaze was fully upon the himNicademus... If you wouldn't mind dismissing your dogs... I need to discuss something with you...Upon inspection of Harnan, one would notice that his spear, shield, and saber hilt were all absent from their usual places upon his body. True, he was a Force User. But he had walked into a Lion's Den unarmed, which would certainly count for something
His thoughts were interrupted by the sound of his doors opening to see an unarmed Harnan Ren. His eyebrow goes up slightly, seeing the male's traditional weapons gone. Nicademus looks at the Ren for a moment longer before nodding to his Praetorians. The guards bow their heads in unison before departing. Once the two were alone, the Emperor turns to fully look at Harnan.Not like you to come without your weapons. And given your tone, you have something serious to speak about, Harnan. |
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Harnan Ren
Knights of Ren
Posts: 601
Affiliation: Knights of Ren
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Post by Harnan Ren on Jan 13, 2019 10:25:51 GMT -8
For once, Harnan was a little surprised by how compliant Nicademus had been to his request. But then, they never had much of an issue discussing things in private. Harnan's visits were rare enough that they were only ever for things that were for his ears only. This occasion more so than others. His gaze on Nicademus breaking only momentarily to glance at the image upon the screen that the man had been viewing. Noting the images of Octavian and Fiora in training. But just as quick as he had dropped his focus, it was back upon Nicademus within an instant
Yes, well... Desperate times call for desperate measures... Besides, your guards seemed a little more compliant when I wasn't armed... But that is beside the point...
He motioned toward the screen then, as he turned back to the matter at hand. His expression more sombre than usual
They, however, are... As is the future of the Ren holdings within the First Order...
He paused a moment. He was never good at trading fancy words or making speeches. But at the same time, He was risking a lot if he revealed too much to Nicademus. But then again, he was about to risk everything with his next move
I have never much cared for you... Nor, I suspect, you for me. Were it not for Illaria, perhaps things might have been different between us... Just as I am sure they will be soon...
Even now, he was debating just how much to reveal to Nicademus. Did the man truly deserve to know everything, or was he better left in the dark, so that he could more easily claim ignorance of what was about to happen. He turned his attention to the screen again, something stirring within him as he looked at the two children
I am going to meet with the Master of the Ren... And I do not suspect I shall return...
He looked back to Nicademus, his gaze hardening
I want your word, that Atlantia shall inherit my place so far as the First Order is concerned... I know Soku has joint overseership of the deep core, but I do not suspect he would entirely approve of my plans... I am going to end this, once and for all. Like I should have, long ago...
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Post by Nicademus Delvardus IV on Jan 13, 2019 13:03:04 GMT -8
Nicademus remains quiet for a moment, listening to Harnan's words. The Emperor was aware of this shadowy Master that lurked as the leader of the Knights of Ren. He remembered Soku mentioning it before and Illaria as well mention this figure. He never pursued much talk nor even to find whoever this individual was. He must be a powerful figure, reeking of the Force, to be able to gather persons such as Harnan and Soku together. Nicademus never sought to find out who this Master was, some things were best left unknown perhaps.
Once Harnan had finished speaking, there wasn't even a hesitation nor a moment of contemplative silence. Nicademus already knew his answer.
Atlantia will succeed in your position, in the event that anything happens to you, Harnan. That is my word and, thus, my decree.
The Imperial's gaze remains directly upon Harnan.
I see no reason to deny this request. The Ren have proved their worth after all, especially you among them all.
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Harnan Ren
Knights of Ren
Posts: 601
Affiliation: Knights of Ren
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Post by Harnan Ren on Jan 13, 2019 19:08:00 GMT -8
The day continued to be full of surprises as Nicademus didn't even so much as blink before confirming his request. Harnan gave a nod of his head
Thank you...
He turned then and headed towards the door, stopping a moment to turn his head to the side. His gaze looking back at Nicademus to regard the Emperor of the First Order one last time. He was fairly certain Illaria had foreseen a much different future than what he was about to commit to. One in which he would perhaps watch over and train her children. A task he was soon to fail at carrying out, but Atlantia would make a fine replacement
If you see her again... Tell her I failed my oath and that I'm sorry... It also goes without saying, guard those children with your life... And if I should fail in my task, do not let either of them near the Ren...
Without waiting for an answer from Nicademus, her turned back towards the doors and continued on his way. Passing through the doors, he headed out into the hallways of the Imperial Command Building. Stopping as he came to a mirror within an empty corridor
Ohhhhh, I am so impressed... That must have been quite the hit to your ego...
Really? You couldn't be satisfied with merely getting your way, could you?
My way? No... OUR way... I am, after all, a mere reflection of you... Of what you truly desire to do...
Reflection or not, we'll both be dead by the end of this. Just make sure we don't fail...
He closed his eyes then, opening them a moment later to stare back at his own reflection. His eyes ablaze
We won't fail...
He slipped his helmet on then, turning back upon his path out of the Imperial Strategic Command. He made no further stops or divergences as he made his way to a waiting shuttle. He took the controls and headed off up into Orbit, before engaging the hyperdrive and disappearing in a streak of light
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