Thomas Zahn
The First Order
Posts: 196
Affiliation: The First Order
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Ravelin
Jun 17, 2021 2:06:33 GMT -8
Post by Thomas Zahn on Jun 17, 2021 2:06:33 GMT -8
The famed Field Marshal had moved about the crowd, making time to primarily socialise with those of an equal or higher rank. A list that was considerably than most others. He was one of a handful of Field Marshal's in the First Order, with the rank being akin to a Grand Admiral in the navy or a Grand Moff in the realm of governance. With his only true superior being the Emperor and the Royal Family. Everybody else, knew they could not just approach him for conversation, and Zahn took advantage of that fact. He had worked hard and earned his position and the benefits that came with it.
But despite his position, he still came to a stop when the Emperor gave his rousing speech. Zahn gave a steady salute and repeat of the Empire's slogans. But as the speech came to an end, his focus shifted back to the crowd and settled upon the Cadet Commander. He watched her making her way through the crowd toward Standash. Despite his absence, he had still been keeping up with the training academy. Looking out for anyone of note to add to his ranks. Akulas had caught his attention, and right now seemed a perfect moment to meet her. A task he accomplished by placing himself between Akulas and Standash's position
Cadet Commander Eckland, correct? Quite an honour to be at the 30th anniversary of Renewal Day, isn't it?
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Ravelin
Jun 17, 2021 12:39:19 GMT -8
Post by Akulas Ecklund on Jun 17, 2021 12:39:19 GMT -8
As she makes her way to the Grand Moff, Eckland was cut off by the Marshall. It caught her off guard. This was like meeting a holo star for her. She had read about the Field Marshal for a years, even before she had enrolled. For the first time in a long time, she wasn't really able to speak. She drops her small plate of horderves on the ground to salute. Um... Hi... Um. She breaths and regathers herself, her calm face returns. Marshal Zahn, sir. Yes, Cadet Commander Akulas Ecklund of Carida. It... it is a pleasure to meet you sir...
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Thomas Zahn
The First Order
Posts: 196
Affiliation: The First Order
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Ravelin
Jun 17, 2021 15:26:09 GMT -8
Post by Thomas Zahn on Jun 17, 2021 15:26:09 GMT -8
He felt only the smallest pang of guilt as Akulas dropped her food to salute him, with a smirk quickly forming as he saluted back. The small action seeming to satisfy himself, and would no doubt be appreciated by the Cadet Commander. His smirk transformed into a subtle smile then as she managed to form a coherent sentence. He should not have taken as much pleasure as he did in surprising her. But sometimes rookies were just too innocent
I have no doubt that it is... I've heard a lot about you, Cadet Commander. One of the youngest and brightest minds Moff Thul... Ah, I guess it's Grand Moff Thul now... Has put through the Carida Academy. Umbra Platoon could use a leader like yourself one day...
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Ravelin
Jun 22, 2021 10:45:36 GMT -8
Post by Akulas Ecklund on Jun 22, 2021 10:45:36 GMT -8
The teenager fought to maintain her composure, and mostly succeeded. She breaths before speaking again. I am just a Cadet, though the Grand Moff has taken particular interest in me. There are others stronger that are probably more with her time. I feel it will be a long time before I am ready for that honor. I just try to be better every day. Teenaged insecurities exist in all, and despite her skills and success, Akulas was no different. She could only think of herself as a regular girl that had been lucky.
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Ravelin
Jun 24, 2021 22:10:54 GMT -8
Post by Nicademus Delvardus IV on Jun 24, 2021 22:10:54 GMT -8
The Emperor descended from his place of honor after the speech was given. Nicademus was greeted and small discussions would ensue before he moved onto the next. Many of those who had first joined his cause were well into their grey hairs. Men who started off as commanders, soldiers, captains, and lowly aides who had risen to the prestigious ranks of admiral, general, and more. So many familiar faces still lived, but others were lost to battle and time. Yet, their sacrifices to the First Order were never forgotten. All who did their part for the Empire were never forgotten.
Speaking of familiar faces, Nicademus would eventually come across Thomas Zahn speaking with Akulas Ecklund. A pair of his Imperial Knights followed as the Imperial approached the pair.Grand Marshal Zahn, it is good to see you among us once more. I know that my brother welcomes the presence of another of his rank.The Emperor acknowledges one of the few granted the rank of Grand Marshal. Then his eyes turned to the female.I do not believe we have met... but I do recall seeing you on New Carida. Many times I visited to witness the training exercises of Grand Moff Thul.
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Ravelin
Jun 24, 2021 22:16:58 GMT -8
Post by Octavian Delvardus on Jun 24, 2021 22:16:58 GMT -8
She briefly glanced up towards their Father and then back to her BrotherI don't think our Father ever truly grasped the disdain many have for the Ren... But... He was right that true friends who stand by you are the most important... She let out a sigh and crossed her arms, her gaze briefly passing across to where their siblings and cousin were locatedI just hope they do not hold it against me... How are they doing? |
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Standash Thul
Member
Posts: 1,377 
Affiliation: First Order
Traffic Light: Green
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Ravelin
Jun 25, 2021 11:16:07 GMT -8
Post by Standash Thul on Jun 25, 2021 11:16:07 GMT -8
Grand Moff Thul split her attention between the twin's conversation, and her protégé conversing with the Field Marshal. Early into her training as a girl on Alderaan she learned to split her attention and catch everything. It was very important in this line of work. Standash could see the rift building between the twins. She made note to reach out to them after. Fiora was tougher to meet with since she joined the Ren fully, Standash had tried to make routs for diplomatic trips to Prakith but there was always extra paperwork and red tape involved there. More since Fiora arrived. Standash's relationship with Fiora was not a secret. Standash knew that some were not happy of Fiora's relationships with others.
Octavian on the other hand was a bit easier to see. She hated to admit it, but she found herself a bit distracted when she was around the prince, though she couldn't full figure out why. It may be that whenever she sees Octavian, Brock is there. He was a good knight, as good as force users can be. Every time he was around it felt like everything he did annoyed her in some way. She never showed it. Afterwards she would replay the interaction over and over again. This weakness made her livid at her self. She needed to suck it up and spend more time with the Prince despite how his uncle made her feel.
On the other side, she saw Akulas. The Marshal walked up, and Standash knew exactly what was going on in the girl's head. Standash could tell she was self-conscious, though Akulas hid it well. In her own up bringing, Standash had the same feelings. You could do everything perfectly, and still be think you are nothing. She knew that the girl would pull out of it, or was pretty sure. The girl's admiration for Zahn was not a secret. If the Marshal would return a call, Standash would have had the two meet before now. She noticed the Emperor approach the group and was very interested to see how the Cadet would handle that meeting. This was one of the few times Standash was unsure how the girl would respond.
Expanding her gaze, she found the source of her confusion. Across from her, likely doing the same thing she was, stood Brock. She gave him a forced and polite smile. She considered for a moment that the confusion and feelings she always felt when he was around was some Force trick he was using against her, something to mix up her thoughts a little. She was not week minded, but there would still be some effect. She was rarely if ever emotional, for her to have emotions over someone was not normal for her. The Force would explain it. It was just like them, Force users, she thought to toy with peoples emotions and thoughts. Her polite smile turns to an icy knowing smile to him.
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Ravelin
Jun 30, 2021 12:26:54 GMT -8
Post by Akulas Ecklund on Jun 30, 2021 12:26:54 GMT -8
Akulas was totally ignorant of galactic politics. She was a soldier. "Ask not the reasons why, tis but to do or die." This was a parable she read when she was a little girl, and had internalized it. She wanted to be a soldier, she cared about her leaders more than the politicians behind them. This was an area the Grand Moff had tried to change her views. Standash always . Because of this, she was less taken aback at the Emperor talking to her than the Marshall. She had immense respect and loyalty to the Emperor of course, but even now in front of her, he was more a concept and idea than a man. She still knew how to respond. She first snapped to attention, then dropped to a knee and avoided looking up. This wasn't nerves or feeling of unworthiness like the Marshal, and more as respect for the office of the Emperor. Kneeling at looking down she spoke.
It is an honor to meet you, your Majesty. Cadet Akulas Ecklund at your service.
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Thomas Zahn
The First Order
Posts: 196
Affiliation: The First Order
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Post by Thomas Zahn on Jul 3, 2021 3:42:27 GMT -8
The teenager fought to maintain her composure, and mostly succeeded. She breaths before speaking again. I am just a Cadet, though the Grand Moff has taken particular interest in me. There are others stronger that are probably more with her time. I feel it will be a long time before I am ready for that honor. I just try to be better every day. Teenaged insecurities exist in all, and despite her skills and success, Akulas was no different. She could only think of herself as a regular girl that had been lucky. Sometimes just being better each day is all we need to do... As for others being more worth the Grand Moff's time? I doubt that. Grand Moff Thul does not waste her time on anything. If she's chosen you, then there is no one better... The Emperor descended from his place of honor after the speech was given. Nicademus was greeted and small discussions would ensue before he moved onto the next. Many of those who had first joined his cause were well into their grey hairs. Men who started off as commanders, soldiers, captains, and lowly aides who had risen to the prestigious ranks of admiral, general, and more. So many familiar faces still lived, but others were lost to battle and time. Yet, their sacrifices to the First Order were never forgotten. All who did their part for the Empire were never forgotten.
Speaking of familiar faces, Nicademus would eventually come across Thomas Zahn speaking with Akulas Ecklund . A pair of his Imperial Knights followed as the Imperial approached the pair.Grand Marshal Zahn, it is good to see you among us once more. I know that my brother welcomes the presence of another of his rank.The Emperor acknowledges one of the few granted the rank of Grand Marshal. Then his eyes turned to the female.I do not believe we have met... but I do recall seeing you on New Carida. Many times I visited to witness the training exercises of Grand Moff Thul. It's a pleasure to be back Your Majesty. I had started to miss all of this, but I know the work I did brought this to the lawlessness... As to your brother... well... it is a great honour to be of equal rank as him... He smiled and watched then as Akulas snapped to attention, before taking a knee. As any good, loyal soldier would in the presence of the Emperor |
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Fiora Ren
Knights of Ren
Posts: 351
Affiliation: The First Order - The Knights of Ren
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Ravelin
Jul 7, 2021 20:00:46 GMT -8
Post by Fiora Ren on Jul 7, 2021 20:00:46 GMT -8
The mention of their father caused Octavian to turn away for a moment to see the Emperor conversing with others. Ever the social person he was, wanting those around him to feel welcomed and remembered. He turns back to his sister after glancing in the general direction of Nicademus.And yet, despite the suggestions, he does not give up on the purpose and status of the Ren.A status that granted them a semi-autonomous region in the Prakith system and, more recently, included the reclaimed Byss sector.I do not think it is a matter of fully grasping it... perhaps it is more that father does not care about ridicule.Octavian smiles at Fiora. The mention of their siblings and relatives did cause Octavian to turn another direction and gesture to where Baltasar stood with his wife and daughter, the only child he ever had. Amaris was not as Force sensitive as her royal cousins, but she was her father's daughter. A cadet in the Stormtrooper Corps and with a bright future ahead of her.Amaris is ever dedicated to her training. Uncle Baltasar has ensured that. Uncle Brock keeps the Imperial Knights well maintained.As for their younger siblings.Remus seems interested in ships and starfighters. Yvaine, well she has a knack for technology. Similar to Aunt Azria. All of them do hope you are well, Fiora. I do not think they will ever hate you for being Ren. Maybe disagree, but we are destined for various paths after all. Father was always stoic in such matters... He believes in all that he has created and the purpose of it all. He knows that each piece has a purpose which drives the Empire on. Others... Do not... The First Order command structure knew only what was pertinent for each level of it to know. They could only speculate based on rumours and any un-redacted information in mission reports. Speculation ran rampant from there when it came to just how important various arms of the First Order were. The Ren took a brunt of this, especially considering their public status and the fact they were known Darksiders. A fact everyone just assumes makes someone evil and rotten and deranged. Thanks primarily due to Palpatine.
Her gaze then followed her Brother, as he gestured to their siblings and recounted each one's progress and status at the moment. She was glad to hear they were doing well. By the sounds of it, she would be the proverbial black sheep of the family as the only Ren amongst them. But perhaps that was for the bestI'm glad they have all been doing well... It's not being a Ren I fear they will hate me for, it is me staying away from them that I fear they will resent... She sighed, before putting on a smile once more. Gathering back her strength to deal with the guests yet to comeI think I've taken enough of your time Brother, you should go. I'm sure there are plenty more people for you to greet... |
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Ravelin
Jul 18, 2021 20:02:16 GMT -8
Post by Nicademus Delvardus IV on Jul 18, 2021 20:02:16 GMT -8
Akulas was totally ignorant of galactic politics. She was a soldier. "Ask not the reasons why, tis but to do or die." This was a parable she read when she was a little girl, and had internalized it. She wanted to be a soldier, she cared about her leaders more than the politicians behind them. This was an area the Grand Moff had tried to change her views. Standash always. Because of this, she was less taken aback at the Emperor talking to her than the Marshall. She had immense respect and loyalty to the Emperor of course, but even now in front of her, he was more a concept and idea than a man. She still knew how to respond. She first snapped to attention, then dropped to a knee and avoided looking up. This wasn't nerves or feeling of unworthiness like the Marshal, and more as respect for the office of the Emperor. Kneeling at looking down she spoke.It is an honor to meet you, your Majesty. Cadet Akulas Ecklund at your service. It was in that moment, that any further comment Zahn might have made was cut off as the Emperor approached and addressed them both. Zahn gave a bow and salute as he stood to attention. While the setting was meant to be somewhat informal, Nicademus was a man that Zahn respected greatlyIt's a pleasure to be back Your Majesty. I had started to miss all of this, but I know the work I did brought this to the lawlessness... As to your brother... well... it is a great honour to be of equal rank as him... He smiled and watched then as Akulas snapped to attention, before taking a knee. As any good, loyal soldier would in the presence of the Emperor |
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Ravelin
Jul 18, 2021 20:17:37 GMT -8
Post by Octavian Delvardus on Jul 18, 2021 20:17:37 GMT -8
I'm glad they have all been doing well... It's not being a Ren I fear they will hate me for, it is me staying away from them that I fear they will resent... She sighed, before putting on a smile once more. Gathering back her strength to deal with the guests yet to comeI think I've taken enough of your time Brother, you should go. I'm sure there are plenty more people for you to greet... |
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Jin Song
Member
Posts: 196
Affiliation: First Order- Fiora Delvardus
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Ravelin
Jul 19, 2021 1:02:42 GMT -8
Post by Jin Song on Jul 19, 2021 1:02:42 GMT -8
Jin had been approached by Octavian a few days ago. They had spoken rarely, as Jin was Fiora's friend mainly, but they had gotten on fine themselves. But when it became clear what kind of function he was inviting her too, she drug her feet. The only reason she agreed to go was to surprise Fiora. But once here, Jin almost immediately regretted that choice. Wearing her usual black dress, she found herself out dressed by nearly everyone present. Though that wasn't the worst of it. She had promised to be on her best behavior, but seeing this many high ranking officials in one place was really driving her mad. The things she would say to them... but she bit her tongue and kept it together by the refreshments table and waited for Octavian to lead Fiora over.
It had been hard when Jin left to begin her training with the Knights of Ren. Neith had contacted her about a year after she had started living in the Imperial Palace. She had laid out the facts that Fiora would begin her own training in a few years and would need people she could trust in the order. Jin agreed. She wanted to learn more about the Force, and be able to help her friend more, and the Knights of Ren didn't seem to be as uptight as the Imperial Knights she had seen in the Palace. But the next few years had been hard work and training with hardly any time off. The best they could do was holocoms every few days. But this would be a fine night, once Jin had Fiora by her side, and if she could keep her mouth shut.
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Fiora Ren
Knights of Ren
Posts: 351
Affiliation: The First Order - The Knights of Ren
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Ravelin
Jul 19, 2021 3:07:10 GMT -8
Post by Fiora Ren on Jul 19, 2021 3:07:10 GMT -8
A part of her had hoped that would be the end of the conversation. Not that she didn't love her brother, but there was only so much eternal optimism she could handle from him. As Octavian gave her a firm pat and motioned for her to follow, she briefly glanced up to Harnan. The Master of the Ren gave a slight nod of his head, before she allowed herself to be guided away enough to see the refreshments table where the unmistakeable sight of Jin in her black dress greeted her. In that moment, she did wish she had already adopted a helmet of her own as most Ren had. It would have given her something to hide behind.
Instead, she had to fight back the tears and joy that started to well up inside of her, watching her best friend fidget uncomfortably at such a formal event. There would be a lot of apologizing and making up for this later. She knew Jin was not a fan of most Imperials
Only one stubborn friend, and she's the only one I'll ever want or need...
She moved away from her brother then, hurriedly walking through the crowd, before breaking out into a short job. She didn't hold back as she got close enough and immediately embraced Jin. Her arms wrapping around her friend and while she buried her face in Jin's shoulder
Jin!
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Thomas Zahn
The First Order
Posts: 196
Affiliation: The First Order
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Ravelin
Jul 19, 2021 3:33:22 GMT -8
Post by Thomas Zahn on Jul 19, 2021 3:33:22 GMT -8
Another capable hand had returned to the fold. The Emperor did not dislike Zahn's original decision, but he was disappointed. Zahn had been among the most capable when it came to leading the legions in ground engagements. A reward for his return, and a sign of renewed trust, was the new rank insignia on his chest. One that mirrored the same upon the chest of Baltasar, the first of the Grand Marshals.A promotion well-deserved, Zahn. The army always needs capable leaders.The Emperor contemplates a moment.Where will you be assigned, Zahn? Do you plan to take up office on Coruscant or seek elsewhere? Perhaps Kuat, your old headquarters? Gotta have them in the army, otherwise those navy folks might think too highly of themselves... He offered up a chuckle. The Army/Navy rivalry was something nearly every nation had to deal with. Each arm had its uses and would be in dire trouble without the other. But it did not stop them from saying they were superior to the otherI think Grand Moff Thul might feel a little uncomfortable having her predecessor take up office on Kuat. Coruscant will keep me and my men close to the action and at the ready should they be needed. |
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Standash Thul
Member
Posts: 1,377
Affiliation: First Order
Traffic Light: Green
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Ravelin
Jul 19, 2021 11:43:19 GMT -8
Post by Standash Thul on Jul 19, 2021 11:43:19 GMT -8
Standash smiled, showing pride in Octavian. The Prince had thought a head, he knew the interaction with his sister would be a tense one. He brought a peace offering. Though, he likely didn't see this action as such. She was happy for the princess to see her friend, and the politician could not hide joy at the girl's joy. Fiora would need moments like this. She could only imagine what training with the Ren would be like, but was confident in her conclusions. It was likely a rather joyless experience.
Akulas was also doing well. The girl was not star stuck by the Emperor. Good, that mindset will serve her well as an advisor in the future. She was also pleased to see the Emperor taking the personal interest in the Cadet as well.
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Ravelin
Jul 19, 2021 12:23:37 GMT -8
Post by Akulas Ecklund on Jul 19, 2021 12:23:37 GMT -8
The teenager stands up now looking at the Emperor. She had been "inspected" and interviewed by superiors quite often already, and in her mind this was no different. A superior was a superior no matter how high up the chain for command. Thank you, your Highness.
She was eager to answer his question at first, before realizing how silly cadet unit names could be. Plaid Lothcats was not a great name for a unit outside of an Academy. She regained her composer before giving the slightly embarising answer. I lead the Plaid um... Lothcats unit. I was made the XO of the unit a year and a half ago, and then full command a year ago. The squad is often changing, many of my squamates are moved to other units quicker than most. They are often made XOs of other units. Its hard to get well known that way. But I like seeing my former teammates advance.
Akulas hadn't gathered that she was doing so well as a leader that the people were transferred quickly. The Grand Moff had issued an order that she not be directly told this.
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Jin Song
Member
Posts: 196
Affiliation: First Order- Fiora Delvardus
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Ravelin
Jul 30, 2021 9:49:53 GMT -8
Post by Jin Song on Jul 30, 2021 9:49:53 GMT -8
Jin turned with a smile as she heard Fiora's voice. Her arms opened wide to receive her friends embrace. It had been too long, but now they could enjoy their time together, however brief. Don't worry, friend, I've only gotten more stubborn. Training with the Ren will do that!
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Fiora Ren
Knights of Ren
Posts: 351
Affiliation: The First Order - The Knights of Ren
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Ravelin
Jul 31, 2021 1:40:07 GMT -8
Post by Fiora Ren on Jul 31, 2021 1:40:07 GMT -8
A broad smile graced her lips as she pulled back a little, her gaze meeting Jin's. Her friend had certainly grown up, but she was definitely still the same person. She was just glad her friends training had gone well so far
Good! I've certainly noticed that as well... Though it's not the only thing training with the Ren has affected... I've missed you Jin...
She hugged her friendly tightly again, not wanting to let go and break the contact
Perhaps now you'll be able to come to Prakith? Or, at least, you'll want to come...
Fiora blushed a little, feeling embarrassed. This wasn't exactly the setting or moment to really ask that question, but her mouth had moved a little faster than her brain had been able to process
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Jenia Kasalle
Databank Operations
Posts: 512
Affiliation: First Order
Traffic Light: Green
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Ravelin
Jul 31, 2021 3:12:12 GMT -8
Post by Jenia Kasalle on Jul 31, 2021 3:12:12 GMT -8
After having accustomed herself to the current festivities and done the necessary talks, she had encountered on her way in, Grand Admiral Kasalle eventually made her way towards one of her more appreciated colleagues, Grand Moff Standash Thul . Not that she minded some of the persons, who wished to talk with her, too much, as she was in the end due to her rank one of the most important military persons within the First Order Navy and thus felt obligated to represent her position with the best example as possible.Yet nothing was gained from few idle talks with aspiring navy officers and imperial nobles, who knew her family, as in the end the concerns regarding her own oversector and her fleet mattered more.The Empire was vast and thus she kept the ammount of people that were close to her quite thin, for she couldn't solve every single issue, promote every capable officer that is underappreciated by their superiors and neither do every influential person within various sectors individual favors.Ironic... she was a Grand Admiral, one of the highest military ranks within the Imperial Navy, who could pretty much command every imperial vessel, which they came along, and yet the higher Jenia rose up, the more she felt out of controll, sometimes even out of touch with the rest of the star fleet's soldiers and officers.Her position made it even mandatory to have contacts around her, that would tell her about her subordinates and how they perform. Sometimes she felt more like the ISB than an actual admiral anymore as since Kuat there wasn't any major task that she had to settle with the Charybdis in personal.Talks with the Mandalorians, some uprisings at Adumar, few skirmishes with pirates at the oversector's borders... that was pretty much it, when it came to name the more interesting events.Then again she neither wished for conflict though. Of course she wanted to deal with some of the matters herself, but it helped her to remind herself that the military and thus the navy solely existed to maintain order within the galaxy. Individuals like herself would be required within an open war, when the borders of the First Order would be threatened once more by a major power.Thus it was probably a blessing that she didn't bother too much with problems, that her generals and sector fleets could already handle on their own."Grand Moff Thul", she greeted the fellow sector administrator formal, as she approach, mustering her briefly, "We haven't seen each other in a long time."Since their last talk it seemed for Jenia as if her colleague has barely changed, solely when it came to her appearence. She would have to remind herself on complimenting Standash for her fashion choice as it was something she barely managed to tell her during most of these events.Compared to her and her own choice of wearing the regular uniform of a Grand Admiral, she felt rather dull.Not that she was necessary jealous, but sometimes she wished that she would less restrict herself to the protocol and the expectations upon her.
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