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Post by Nicademus Delvardus IV on Jan 2, 2020 19:24:35 GMT -8
This living area, combined with a necessary office, serves as the abode for the Grandmaster of the Imperial Knights. Traditionally, this role would be fulfilled by the ruler of the Imperium or their heir, however, with the end of the force sensitive, royal Fels, and the present ruler's inability to utilize it, the role has fallen upon a trusted Imperial Knight, Faina Nikulin. This would ultimately change with her marriage to the Emperor. Thus these quarters serve the Steward of the Order, Brock Ferrum, who acts as de jure leader of the Imperial Knights and assists in performing the roles of the Grandmaster.
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Faina Delvardus
The First Order
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Affiliation: The First Order
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Post by Faina Delvardus on May 7, 2022 3:53:32 GMT -8
After seeing the impresively disorganized and apparently only infrequently used state of Brock's office, Faina decides that she has no desire to see what he has done with his living quarters. Having just returned from her latest mission, Faina had hoped to find Brock so that she could report on the successful completion of the mission and how the newest Imperial Knights to attain the rank had performed since doing so verbally would not only theoretically spare her the time and effort required to make a more formal written report, but also allow her to reunite with her husband and youngest children sooner. Faina is used to the guilt that spendig any time away from her family gives rise to, having raised her eldest children, the twins from Nicademus's first marriage, into young adults while juggling her duties as Empress and Grandmaster of the Imperial Knights certainly making her familiar with it, and so is not surprised to feel it bubbling up now as she removes her cloak and places it over the back of the chair behind the desk after letting her personal guards stationed outside of the door, Voshkie and Nechama, know that they will need to wait a while longer.
Sighing as she moves a box of what appears to be miscellaneous odds and ends any sane individual would take for trash from the chair, Faina sits and, supposing that she will eventually find a dataterminal somewhere beneath all of the piles of requisition forms, empty nerf jerky packages, and other assorted detrius that makes it clear that Brock is making good on his threat to leave any paperwork for her to complete in her spare time, does what she can to arrange the mess into something more manageable as she searches for the dataterminal.
Finding the dataterminal at last, Faina begins writing her report after making sure that Brock had remembered to secure the devce and have it set up to automatically encrypt anything on it. Having written enough after action reports in her time that doing so is something she virtually can do on autopilot, Faina finds her thoughts soon drifting down familiar paths, most predictably occupied by thoughts of her spouse and children and how much she misses them. She has found that her own mother's warning that a parent never stops worrying about their children no matter how old they are has proven all too true, and Faina is unsurpised that she also finds herself missing and worrying most about the twins, who are old enough now that they are often away on duties of their own. Though Faina has made her peace with the decision for Fiora to become a Knight of Ren, and found that her fears about that path keading to a rift between her and her daughter have proven to be unfounded, she worries most for her eldest daughter due to the Ren's use of the Darkside and all that it often entails. Faina takes some comfort, surprisingly enough to her, in the fact that Harnan is overseeing Fiora's training; though she does not imagine she and her duaghter's teacher will ever be friends, their interactions over the years have show her that there is honor to be found in him, and his protectiveness of Fiora has been made abundantly clear time and time again. She worries no less for Octavian, an Imperial Knight now, as their shared occupation is not without dangers of its own, and Faina takes some comfort in the fact that she often sees her eldest son more often than his twin given that Fiora's training with the Ren naturally takes up so much of her time and seldom allows her time away to spend with her family. Even though her youngest children are only in their teens, Faina worries for them as well; worries about their happiness, their futures, and how any time she spends away from them might affect their relationships; fears Faina supposes are shared by any mother, any parent.
Taking a deep breath to help settle her mind as she realizes she has neared the end of her report, Faina focuses on completing it so that she can then set about the oftentimes amusingly convuluted task of finding out where her husband is at the moment so that she can, Force willing, convince him to clear his schedule so that they and their youngest children can have some time together.
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Post by Nicademus Delvardus IV on May 7, 2022 8:58:37 GMT -8
It hadn't taken long for the Emperor to notice his wife's return. One of the attendants of the palace reported her re-entry into Coruscant's space not too long ago. Willingly, without hesitation, Nicademus put down all he was planning to do to go and see Faina. It had become something of his to always be the first to greet her upon her return. She was doing so much for the First Order as both Grandmaster, Empress, and Mother. Taking a transport, and several guards, Nicademus made his way to the Fel Tower, the headquarters of the Imperial Knights.
Their years of marriage had been good to them. Though many knew that Nicademus had loved his first wife, there was no doubt that the Imperial truly loved his second. After all, their union together had been happy and produced two children: Remus and Yvaine. The latter of whom took much from her mother's appearance, save the eyes. Certainly, the media enjoyed this marriage more than the first as Faina was much more of a public face and approachable person. Although slander against Illaria was known to receive decent punishment, for Nicademus would never allow dishonorable words to be spoken to the mother of the Empire's eldest heirs, Octavian and Fiora. Even in these older days, Nicademus always sported a smile when he heard Faina returning from a mission. She had taken a bit of a leave to adjust to the role of Empress and wife with further leaves taken to become a mother, not once, but twice. Yet she was always the same as she was before; the ever-vigilant Knight of the Empire.
Walking down the hallway, Nicademus was not alone. Remus and Yvaine, only a few years apart, were being educated at the Fel Tower as initiate. Young teens they were now with Remus being fourteen and Yvaine having just turned eleven. Remus had his father's red hair, but was a bit more robust. Yvaine was ever the mirror of her mother, save she had her father's green eyes. As the trio walked down, escorted by a squad of the 501st, Nicademus spoke with his children, their voices carried to the office of Faina.
The first sign that Nicademus knew she was in was the presence of Voshkie and Nechama at the doorway. The pair noticed the approaching Emperor and turned, giving their liege a proper salute The Imperial waved his hand, allowing them to be at ease. Before arriving, he had told his children to wait out of the office, for a moment. He never told them how much Brock could ruin Faina's office. His brother certainly needed a wife to give him structure and discipline... the thought of which made him shake his head before keying the door to open.
At the doorway, the Empress would see the Emperor. Age had been kind to Nicademus who was now in the middle of his fifth decade of living. Though his hair still held its brilliant reddish color, it had become slightly faded with even a thick strange of grey starting to appear on the left curve of his head. Yet, despite it all, his eyes and looks were as sharp as ever. The pair had known for over twenty years, close to thirty in fact. Once, they had been conversing with each other when the Imperial was a young Head of State for the Deep Core Remnant and she but a newly risen Imperial Knight. How they had come far, looking at who they were now to each other. A match made by the stars themselves, as the media reels said.
The Emperor was dressed, as usual, in a military uniform, but one that was modeled off of the Grand Admirals of old and today. A stark white uniform, adorned with a matching cape that had a red fabric beneath it. That was perhaps the one thing that had never changed: Nicademus despising pompous dress. Soon, a smile crossed the face of Nicademus as he saw his wife.
I figured you'd come here first to see the damage done by Brock.
Taking a first glance, it was certainly quite a bit. A chuckle then followed from his lips.
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Faina Delvardus
The First Order
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Post by Faina Delvardus on May 9, 2022 21:15:46 GMT -8
Faina smiles when she senses through the Force the approach of her husband and youngest children, supposing that she should not be surprised that Nicademus would be made aware of her return and drop whatever he might have been dealing with at the time; one of the many things that has endeared Nicademus to her over the years they have been together has been that, as important as their respective roles and responsibilities are, she and her husband have always been of one mind where making it clear to one another that their marriage and children come first is concerned.
Arching an eyebrow with an amused smile when Nicademus enters the office, Faina glances around at their impressively slovenly surroundings, asking playfully, "Can you blame me? Standing up and walking towards Nicademus, crinkling her nose and apologetically explaining her choice to come first to the tower, I didn't want to disturb you in case you were in the middle of anything important, and, she holds up a hand with a grin as she anticipates his protest, I know, I know, nothing is more important. I also wanted to get all of the busywork out of the way so, she wraps her arms around him and embraces him tightly, that nothing would interrupt our family's time together, and then laughs as she jokes, At least until the next something undeniably pressing calls one of us away. Kissing Nicademus tenderly, Faina looks into his eyes as she runs her fingers lovingly though the strands of grey at his temple as she tells him, I've missed you."
Stepping back and fussily readjusting the collar of Nicademus' white uniform jacket so that it is as immaculate as it was before her embrace, Faina asks the questions both always ask when one of them has been away without the chance to keep in regular contact for whatever reason, "So, tell me everything I've missed. How are Remus and Yvaine? Have you heard anything from Fiora or Octavian while I've been gone?"
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Post by Nicademus Delvardus IV on May 10, 2022 17:06:04 GMT -8
A laugh was heard from Faina's first remark. The tenderness they shared, the passion that was felt between their hearts, the smiles that never ceased when their eyes gazed upon each other... this was a happy marriage. Nicademus had been worried about remarrying after Illaria vanished. His eldest were still young children and his heart not mended. His advisors urged him, time and again, to consider another wife for the sake of his person and for the nurturing Octavian and Fiora needed at their age. After some time, it became quite obvious who that was and, for the past fifteen years, it had been a marriage worth every second.You know me too well, Faina. Of course I would have dropped everything for you, even left a military meeting.The Imperial chuckles lightly. This had been the case once before when little Remus first kicked within Faina. A servant came, interrupting a meeting with his admirals to remark that the Empress wished to see him. Nicademus ran out of that room, out of concern that something was wrong. It was worth leaving that meeting to feel their firstborn move within her. Nicademus had always been a diligent and caring father, he wouldn't want to miss any moment of his children's life. But, given Octavian and Fiora's ages, and their duties, the Imperial saw less and less of them, which did make him sad at the thought that they were grown up now.
Hearing the Empress say she missed him and the affection that came with those words made Nicademus' day without hesitation.I missed you too, Faina.He lightly kissed her right back before pulling away some as she fussed about his collar. Nicademus emits another chuckle at her fussing. And so the questions began and, with the first one, the Emperor gestures to the closed door behind the pair of them.You can probably sense their anticipation. I brought Remus and Yvaine out of their studies here to come and see you. Remus is just about to be granted the full rank of Squire. His trial begins in two weeks. Yvaine is doing well with her education. Her uncle, Brock, has been a good instructor to her as he was with her brothers. But I will note that Remus seems to enjoy reading up about military theories while I found Yvaine watching a maintenance crew tinkering with an Astromech droid. I heard she even asked about the bits and gears of the droid.Remus was just about ready to be paired with an Imperial Knight and begin doing missions that would take him all over Coruscant and throughout the Empire's territory as a Knight's apprentice. Only seemed like yesterday their son entered the Fel Tower to begin his formal education. Remus had always been into the military and Yvaine had this keen interest in technology. Their futures were written in the stars. He hoped, as a father, that they would pursue them.Octavian and Fiora, from what I know, are well. Fiora has just about concluded her training on Prakith. Jin Song , her best friend as you recall, has been with her and training as well under the Ren. Octavian just returned from a mission to Shili. His starfighter landed yesterday. I believe he is with Brock right now.Nicademus then glances left and right before leaning in. Time for some inside news that he had seen for himself.
You remember Akulas Ecklund , the cadet he danced with on Bastion during Empire Day? I have seen the pair conversing more since she was assigned to one of the regiments under his command. A fine young Imperial, if I do say so myself. Reminds me of us many years ago.
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Faina Delvardus
The First Order
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Post by Faina Delvardus on May 11, 2022 3:43:31 GMT -8
Faina smiles, reaching up with her right hand to caress Nicademus' cheek and looking lovingly into his eyes when he says that he would have dropped anything for her, silently letting him know that she knows that he would, just as she would for him were the situations reversed; one of the many things, not always spoken of but simply understood between them, that has enabled their marriage and love for one another to grow stronger and deeper over the years has been how they have always made sure that they and their children always take precedence over whatever demands their other roles might place upon them.
Nodding with a warm smile and expression that reveal not only her love for him and for all of their children, but her own eagerness to be reunited with them after having been called away for longer than anticipated by her most recent mission, Faina entwines the fingers of her right hand in Nicademus' as he fills her on what has happened in the time she has been away. Faina is always surprised how, at such seemingly simple moments like this when they make sure that they always share anything they miss out on when away from one another, she can feel herself falling more in love with her husband after being together for fifteen years. Just as there are sides of Faina that she has shown only to Nicademus, there are facets to him that she knows he only allows come out when he is with her. The tone of her husband's voice as he speaks of their children, the unguarded expressions that reveal his love of and devotion to their children on his face, all things he would otherwise dampen or conceal behind the serious, analytical and composed personae that he has cultivated for his public life.
Laughing softly in recognition of the traits Nicademus has noted in their youngest children that hint at where their abiding interests in life will likely lay, Remus' interest in military history and tactics and Yvaine's passion for science and technology things she has observed herself, Faina gives her husband's hand a gentle, understanding and supportive squeeze as he goes on to relay what news he has of their twins. Faina knows that being away from their eldest children is as difficult for him as it is for her, that he misses them and worries for them every bit as much as she even though they both know that a part of being a parent is learning to accept that it is the way of life that children grow into adults and build their own lives, lives that can mean their parents see less of them than they prefer. Faina is glad to hear that Fiora's best friend has been with her and has even begun training with the Ren herself even though the nature of that training and its effects on those undertaking it is something that she has her own personal reservations about. It is comforting, Faina thinks, that their daughter has her friend to be there for her, and hopefully the two can support and strengthen one another in the way best friends so often can. Faina chuckles knowingly when Nicademus goes on to speak of Octavian, the dance he shared with Akulas having engendered enough talk among the ranks of Imperial officers and troopers and the Imperial Knights that Faina suspects many eyes will be on the pair in anticipation of what comes next for them. From what Nicademus has said about their eldest son's recent return from Shili, Faina supposes there is a chance they might get to see him before duty calls him away again, which might in turn permit them to learn if there is indeed anything to all of the speculation about what the dance may have sparked between Octavian and Akulas.
"Well, Faina says with a smile as she jokes, ideally they won't wait quite as long as we did if you're right, then strokes his cheek gently, Not that I would have had it happen in any other way with how things have turned out, my love. Placing her arm in his, Faina begins guiding them towards the door so that they can join their youngest children waiting outside, I do hope, however, that Octavian does not let any of the attention that might be thrust upon them should they take things to the next step trouble him. You know how he can be a bit socially awkward at times as well as I do."
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Post by Nicademus Delvardus IV on May 11, 2022 19:32:28 GMT -8
Faina was right about Octavian. Though Imperial Knight training had made him a dashing warrior among the various stars of their ranks, both young and old, his stern and rigid upbringing had made the Crown Prince somewhat socially awkward at times. He could excel in professional and official situations, such as the recent negotiations with the Inquisitor Zariel, but when it came to more personal encounters, he could become tongue-tied. His eldest wasn't as bad with family, but more so newcomers to him. The young knight had already begun to gather a cadre of individuals that were on the rise for their talents and abilities. Octavian could easily converse with them! But someone, like Akulas, seemed foreign to him at times.
Nicademus, as a father, was somewhat worried, but Octavian was still learning and growing. Though a young man in his mid-twenties, there was always room to enhance oneself. He would always be worried for any of his children, that was natural as a parent, but deep down, the Emperor knew that all would turn out just as the galaxy intended them to be. And, even from the next life, Nicademus would be proud.
Octavian will be fine in the end. He was thrusted into a rather interesting scenario at that event. However, it worked out. Perhaps, with time and interaction, he won't seem as socially awkward around people, like Akulas, who are new to him. The fact that they are still conversing is a good sign.
The Imperial smiles before he keys the door open, knowing that Remus and Yvaine were beyond anxious to see their mother. When the door hissed open, just off to their right, the fourteen year old son and his eleven year old sister stood in anticipation. Immediately, there was a unison exclamation of 'Mom!' by the pair. Yvaine was especially happy given that she was the one who missed Faina the most. Given her young age, it was understandable as to why. This caused a smile to cross Nicademus' face once more.
Now remember, you two, don't bombard your mother with questions. Wait till later when she has relaxed.
At that age, children wanted to learn what their mother saw and where she visited. Soon, Remus would begin his own journey and see such places as the snows of Mygeeto, the lush surface of Garqi, the rough terrain of Balmorra, and more. Yvaine was still a few years away from that though. Octavian and Fiora were just the same when they were that young; asking their father about Eriadu, asking their uncles about where they had been recently. It was just natural.
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Faina Delvardus
The First Order
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Affiliation: The First Order
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Post by Faina Delvardus on May 12, 2022 0:00:47 GMT -8
Resting her head against Nicademus' shoulder as, after he has replied to her concerns for Octavian, they make their way to the door, Faina says, "I know he will, love. He just takes time and care with who he lets himself open up to." Faina has seen how any awkwardness Octavian has when in the company of those he does not know well is not present when he is interacting with those he has come to know well and to trust. Should Akulas become more familiar to Octavian, and enter into his trust, Faina has no doubt that her eldest son will be more comfortable with the young woman Nicademus has characterized as a promising young Imperial, just as she has no doubt that time and experience will undoubtedly enable Octavian to gain and demonstrate confidence in whatever situations he finds himself in.
Faina smiles brightly as she and Nicademus step outside and she sees their youngest children, and slides her arm from around her husband's elbow to hug Yvaine, who is running towards her. Remus, who had already had his mouth open to ask his mother what kind of ship she had taken on the mission, looks as aggrieved and embarrassed as most fourteen year old boys do when their mothers display affection for them in public as, when Faina motions for him to come over so she can hug both her children, he makes a show of reluctantly going over and permitting Faina to hug him, though the smile on his face as she pulls him close reveals that the reluctance is only for show. Knowing exactly what Remus had been about to ask before being instructed to save his questions for later, Faina whispers beside his ear, "A Vindicator-class heavy cruiser. I'll tell you all about it later, pet."
After she and her youngest children have exchanged excited I miss you's and I'm so happy to be/ you're home's, Faina is not surprised when Remus steps back before she has a chance to kiss him atop the head, and, as Yvaine is not yet at the age where she too will probably find being doted on annoying, instead kisses her youngest daughter on the head. "Well then, Faina says as she puts an arm around Yvaine, who stays at her side, what should we do about dinner? Go home, or go out?"
Yvaine, who knows that her parents are more the Emperor and Empress when in public and just Mom and Dad when they are at home, excitedly replies, "Let's go home! We can all cook together! And since Ocky is back, maybe he can come too!"
Remus, as interested as he is to hear about his mother's latest adventure, knows that going out usually means that his parents run into all sorts of interesting Imperial admirals or officers, meaning he would have the chance to speak with them as well, quickly jumps in and says in his very best imitation of his father's tone of command, "We should go to Thrawn's Lounge. Dad said Mom needs to relax, he supports his position with all the logic and authority he can muster, adding quickly when he realizes that Yvaine's suggestion about inviting their brother, whom she has always called Ocky since she was little and could not pronounce his name properly, could prove a compelling enough argument to counter his idea, Ocky . . . Octavian could meet us there just as easily. And, he piles on another argument for good measure, it would give him a chance to work on his confidence when in public."
As amused as ever by the way their youngest children can seldom agree on anything, Faina looks over at Nicademus and smiles as she puts the decision in his hands given that, so long as she is with her family, it does not matter which course of action they take, "What do you think, love? In or out?"
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Post by Brock Ferrum on May 15, 2022 18:35:26 GMT -8
As if summoned by the many mentions of his name Octavian Delvardus turns a final corner and arrives in the hallway outside the office where his family has gathered. A few steps behind follows his uncle Brock. Both were in full armor, Octavian's the traditional Red of an Imperial Knight and Brock's the white and gold set he continued to wear when not forced by formality into a more traditional set. Both were a little disheveled as if they'd ran the whole way to the gathering, although in truth they hadn't. Instead Brock had been in the middle of debriefing Octavian on his recent mission, however ever since Octavian had become an Imperial Knight in his own right Brock had insisted that he deliver his mission reports while sparring to keep his skills under pressure intact. The younger man might not be his apprentice anymore but he wasn't about to let up on his training just because Octavian was supposedly an adult.
Brock had to suppress the usual pang of jealousy to prevent it from projecting of what little remained of the force bond he and Faina had forged when they were younger, however after years of watching the happy family and working with all their children it was more of an unconscious habit than an active need to suppress an intense emotion as it once had been. Despite the grey now in his hair and beard Brock had never lost the youthful glint of mischief in his eyes when he smiled and it flashed once again as he delivered the final Coruscant residing sibling to the family. Did someone say something about dinner?
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Post by Nicademus Delvardus IV on May 18, 2022 19:29:37 GMT -8
Faina DelvardusThe interaction of his family always made the Imperial's day. Ever since Faina became a stepmother, and then a mother of her own, their family seemed content and happy. The loss of Illaria had disrupted the potential of a family life like this, but Faina had done her best for all of her children. Certainly, the presence of a mother had surely been good on Fiora and Octavian. Nicademus reflected for a moment on their younger days, when they were just toddlers, learning of the space around them and having the presence of their father and Faina. Remus and Yvaine looked up to their older siblings and, in turn, Octavian and Fiora were good to them.
Nicademus chuckles quietly at how Yvaine calls Octavian. She could never get the name right or perhaps she was just used to calling him that at this point. His eldest didn't seem to mind it at this point. They both suggested one idea over the other, with Remus giving suggestions as to why and Yvaine just wanting to be home and having a dinner there. Nicademus reaches forward, patting his son, Remus, on the head.You have a good argument, Remus, but remember, it is a different situation when one is with those familiar to him. Octavian manages well in public, but there are certain circumstances where he can have issue. He will work on those on his own time.The Emperor smiles at his son before turning to Faina.You know... I could use a nice quiet place to eat, but the view from the Thrawn's Lounge is definitely worth it.Before he could speak further though, two familiar faces joined them as Brock and Octavian came down the hallway.Did someone say something about dinner?
The Emperor then turns to Faina, smiling at her and then their two children.Let's go to Thrawn's Lounge tonight. I bet Octavian could use a little stretch from the usual routine of Imperial Knight life.
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Post by Octavian Delvardus on May 18, 2022 19:34:39 GMT -8
Octavian had been conversing with some of his comrades when Brock came to see his nephew, remarking of Faina's return from her mission. The two of them immediately knew what was coming next: Nicademus was likely already on his way to see his beloved wife and that likely also meant that Remus and Yvaine were on their way too. Excusing himself from the company of his companions, the young Imperial Knight joined his uncle in going to the Grandmaster's office.
They arrived to see Nicademus, Faina, and his two younger siblings out in the hallway. Four stormtroopers were closer to where they were as well as a pair of familiar Imperial Knights, the ever present friends and bodyguards of the Grandmaster. His father, after addressing Brock as any brother would, turned to his son and the two of them shared a quiet welcome. Octavian, though, offers a rare smile, happy to be back on Coruscant and seeing his family. Although, Fiora was missing from the picture... one day, they'd all rejoin with Baltasar, his wife, and his cousin, Amaris, for a family union. Oh! And one can't forget Brock's adopted son, Roland either! That street rat, he'd certainly be upset if a family reunion happened without him!
Octavian then lowers his gaze to Remus and Yvaine, smiling at the two. This caused Yvaine to say 'Ocky!' a few times. He was used to her calling him that. She'd likely say that for the rest of his life, even if he was Emperor. The Imperial Knight would never mind it. Hearing the decision made by his father, Octavian glances at Brock and nudges his uncle.
About time you get something better than those snacks of yours, Uncle.
Octavian then turns to fully address Faina. The Imperial Knight bows his head slightly.
Grandmaster... err... Mother.
He says, ever formally. There was always the divide between when to best address her as his superior, both as Grandmaster and Empress, and when to best address her as his mother. In this case, likely mother, since he was among family.
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Faina Delvardus
The First Order
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Affiliation: The First Order
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Post by Faina Delvardus on May 18, 2022 20:51:50 GMT -8
No sooner has Faina given Nicademus a smile and shrug of her shoulder to indicate that she is every bit as happy to go to Thrawn's Lounge as she is to simply stay in than the arrival of Brock and Octavian causes the scene to erupt into the amusing chaos that often results when Yvaine and Remus are reunited with their uncle and older brother.
Remus, nodding happily when his father agrees that Thrawn's Lounge is a good idea and his mother appears to agree and increases his hopes that that is where they ultimately go, laughs as his father chides Brock about his inability to think of anything but his stomach in almost any situation, then walks over to his older brother, deftly dodging Yvaine as she squeals happily while bounding over to Octavian while repeating her unique name for him and all but leaps into his arms for a hug. Shaking his head at Yvaine's enthusiastic greeting of their brother, Remus, clasping his hands behind his back in a decent imitation of his father to show at least he can maintain a proper sense of decorum, inclines his head in greeting to his besieged brother and then to Brock, "Brother. Uncle. So good to see you both again. Forgetting his decorum a moment later when his father confirms that they will be going to Thrawn's Lounge, Remus pumps his fist in the air triumphantly, Yes!"
Yvaine, calling out, "Ocky! Ocky! Ocky! excitedly as she runs over to her older brother and then jumps into his arms, hugging him tightly as she exclaims, Isn't this great! Oh, if only Fiora could be here too! Dropping from her older brothers arms, Yvaine goes over and wraps her arms around Brock's waist as she hugs him, then steps back and grins as she takes an imaginary packet of nerf jerky from her pocket and giggles as she asks, Jerky?"
Faina, after the excitement of Brock and Octavian's arrival has settled down a bit, goes over to Octavian and hugs him, smiling as she adopts a playfully stern expression and says, "Mother will do just fine, son, then rests her hand against his cheek as she tells him, I've missed you, though she expects that is a given from the happiness in her expression. Looking over to Brock, happy to see her old friend after so long even though as she notes the gray in his hair and beard has become more pronounced than when she last saw him, she is reminded her of the crows feet and gray in her own hair that have become more pronounced lately, which makes her feel, if only momentarily, old. Faina hugs Brock and then steps back as though examining him closely as though about to dress him down for his disheveled appearance or choice of greeting her only after bringing up food, I think your beard could use a trim, Brock, she says after the pause, then smiles and walks back to Nicademus' side, putting her arm around his waist, Thrawn's Lounge it is then."
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Post by Brock Ferrum on May 22, 2022 13:40:47 GMT -8
Brock endures the latest jibe from his brother before greeting Faina and her children in kind. He had seen the children just the day before but seeing Faina again after so long lifted a weight he didn't realize was weighing him down. He smiles at Remus' loss of decorum when his suggestion won out though his expression grows very serious when Yvaine asks for jerky. I'm sorry young lady but that would spoil your dinner. His tone is extremely serious, though the wink that follows softens the statement and as soon as her parents are both occupied with her older brother the Imperial Knight pulls out a piece of jerky and slips it to his Niece, hiding her consumption of it with his body, watching the exchange and catching a glimpse of himself in one of the halls polished metal panels. Hmm... maybe I could use a bit of a trim. He thought to himself as he enjoyed a quite moment with the family.
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Post by Nicademus Delvardus IV on May 25, 2022 20:35:56 GMT -8
One of the Stormtroopers, who had keyed his helmet, turned to the Emperor.
=Stormtrooper=
Sir, the scheduled transport has arrived.
Nicademus had suspected that, once he had the time to speak with Faina, she would want to spend time with their family. Her presence had been much needed at a time when Octavian and Fiora were without their true mother, Illaria. By her actions, the Delvardus family was one and committed to each other as sibling to sibling, child to parent, and parent to offspring. The Emperor knew he wouldn't have been able to achieve this without Faina, specifically.
The Imperial knew he had asked for much when he proposed to the woman who had long been his champion and constant companion. Asking her to be a mother, to Illaria's offspring and theirs, to be an Empress of the renewed Empire, to be his wife, his pillar, his support that Nicademus needed to thrive as a father and public figure, and his fresh point of view. He did enjoy a spouse who spoke her mind and counseled him on matters both private and public. Things would have been such a struggle without her at his side and, for that, Nicademus would be forever grateful, even to his dying breathe.
The Emperor turns to Octavian before gesturing to Remus and Yvaine, who seemed happy about something.
Octavian, take your brother and sister to the transport. We will be following shortly.
What the Emperor really said was "spend some time with your younger siblings. They look up to you immensely." His son didn't say a word as the Crown Prince placed his hands on both their shoulders and directed them away. Two of the Stormtroopers followed them as, from the sounds of new conversation, Octavian told them about his most recent mission as an Imperial Knight. Nicademus then turns to Brock.
Care to share a ride with us to Thrawn's Lounge? Or do you need to trim your beard first as Faina suggested?
He smiles at his brother before offering his arm to Faina.
We should see if Baltasar, his wife, and daughter can join us. And my nephew, Roland too. Make this a family night out, wouldn't you agree?
The Emperor inquires. Faina did bring the best out of her husband, a different kind of Nicademus that only the family ever saw.
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Faina Delvardus
The First Order
Posts: 301
Affiliation: The First Order
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Post by Faina Delvardus on May 25, 2022 22:20:42 GMT -8
Resting her head against Nicademus' shoulder as she watches Yvaine hide behind Brock to quickly eat the jerky that he gives her, Faina smiles and looks up at her husband to see the familiar look of contentment and love on his face as he too watches their children and uncle talking and joking together; the expression one that always makes her feel grateful for the many facets of her and Nicademus' personalities that their marriage and their children have brought out in them both, pieces of them that might never have been allowed to blossom and bloom had they not taken the chance to learn what had been waiting for them beneath their previous roles as an honored Emperor and his loyal Imperial Knight and trusted friend. Discovering new sides to one another, sides brought out by Faina and Nicademus' ever evolving love for one other, or by virtue of parenting their children together, has been one of the most rewarding aspects of their marriage, dwarfed only by how they continually find new depths of strength and renewal in one another.
Smiling as she watches Yvaine and Remus being herded away by Octavian, seeing the smiles they have as they listen raptly to his latest adventure, make her miss their absent sibling, Fiora, with an ache that is almost physical, but Faina pushes her sadness that they cannot all be together aside rather than let it color the happiness she can see that their impromptu reunion, incomplete though it may be, has brought to all of them. Moments like these are what makes all of the time her duties as Empress and Grandmaster of the Imperial Knights demand of her, all of the time she has to be away from them, worth the pain being apart from her family brings.
Lacing her arm in Nicademus' when he offers it, Faina nods and smiles happily as she agrees with his suggestion that they invite the rest of their extended family to join them, "Absolutely, my love. Nothing would make me happier."
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Post by Nicademus Delvardus IV on Jun 17, 2022 21:48:23 GMT -8
"Absolutely, my love. Nothing would make me happier."
As they moved along, heading for the destination of a landing pad, Nicademus would feel a fatigue within his eyes, causing them to grow heavy for a second before going away. For a moment, the Imperial felt a little tired, but he always waved it off. It was hard to sleep whenever Faina, Octavian, or Fiora went off on missions after all. As a true father, and husband, Nicademus wanted nothing but for them to come home, safe and sound. Victorious and successful in achieving a new deed in the name of the renewed Empire. Hopefully, tonight, a good night's rest would come and he'd feel much better. |
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Faina Delvardus
The First Order
Posts: 301
Affiliation: The First Order
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Post by Faina Delvardus on Jul 15, 2022 13:49:24 GMT -8
Arching an eyebrow skeptically, Faina asks Lt. Col. Foresi, "You think she'd even be availab. . . "
Shrugging a shoulder with a grin as she sits on the edge of Faina's desk, Nicolina interrupts the Grandmaster of the Imperial Knights, "No friggin' idea. That's why, she finishes entering a holonet address on Faina's datapad and tosses it to her, you ask her. She's here on Coruscant now, she's the best aide-de-camp . . . "
Moving the datapad closer and drumming her fingertips idly on the screen, Faina interrupts her old friend, "You've worked with her before?"
Shaking her head, absently tossing her officer's cap up and down, Nicolina explains, "Not personally, nah. But, she grins, I'm people who knows people who know she's the best, m'kay? Trust me. 'Sides, what's the harm in asking, right? Go on, she nods her chin towards the datapad, be a big girl and ask if she would be willing to part from Grand Moff Thule's side for a little while longer to help ya out. You know these political types just looooove doing favors, so even if she isn't interested, I guarantee Thule'll make her play nice anyway since it's you doing the asking."
Frowning, never having acquired a taste for politics and the things it occasionally requires of one bound up in them due to their roles, Faina spins the datapad around and around as she says, "You're not trying to get me caught up in some kind of . . . "
Laughing and shaking her head, Nicolina says, "Nah, dude. I was only messing with you. Blowing a raspberry, she points out, You ever know me to play politics? Seriously, she's got mad skills, and will make this whole thing easier on you."
"If she agrees," Faina says, emphasizing the she to make it clear that she is not interested in trying to coerce the woman's decision by invoking the Grand Moff's name, and then starts composing a holonet message inviting Annelise Sitar to meet with her to discuss a possible temporary use of her services as an aide-de-camp.
Setting her officer's cap on her head at a jaunty angle, Nicolina hops from the desk and settles herself comfortably on a sofa as she says, "Ten credits says we hear back from her before we have the rest of the arrangements for the pick up made. We got our ship, we hopefully have your aide in the bag, so we just need to decide on the rest of the bridge crew and we're set."
Finishing the holonet message, Faina sends it and sets the datapad aside as she says, "I suppose you have candidates for the bridge crew in mind already?"
Making a clucking noise with her tongue as she points an index finger at Faina, Nicolina confirms, "You bet'cha, babe! You're doing me a solid playing Captain since the Jayanti's usual big dog is tied up with some family thing, so I wanna do my best to make it easy for ya."
Nodding, barely managing not to smile at Nicolina's unique conversational style, Faina makes a rare joke, "Another one you owe me then. Alright, let's sort out the rest of the details," and then leans back in her chair to hear who Nicolina has in mind to fill out the rest of the bridge crew of the Venator-class Star Destroyer they will be taking to Rendili to pick up the company of recently graduated Stormtrooper cadets Nicolina has handpicked to join the ranks of the Emperor's Talons.
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Post by Annelise Sitar on Jul 15, 2022 19:51:40 GMT -8
Annelise was in the Grand Moff's Coruscanti residence. She had a penthouse in the main district. The Alderaanian was still standing and staffed. But the Grand Moff didn't feel right about using that residence. The Penthouse was well equipped and had all the needs for Annelise to serve Standash when on location. It was nice to work and stay here as opposed to the Hereb. She was looking at the supply levels for the fleet and the location trainings for the Academy when a notification came on her pad. She had been prepared for this message, it had a specific tone to it. Despite her preparation, it caught her off guard. This was a royal notification. It was the Empress... There was panic for a moment but it faded quickly. She let the Empress's office know she was on her way. She needlessly straightened her outfit. The white tunic was pristine already, but she made sure. She wasn't sure the nature, but it was best not to keep the Empress waiting. The speeder made the short trip quickly. Annelise checked in with the office. and waited for her summons. She pondered what could be the reasons for this summons. She wondered if Aukulas, the Grand Moff's pet project would be the topic of discussion.
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Faina Delvardus
The First Order
Posts: 301
Affiliation: The First Order
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Post by Faina Delvardus on Jul 15, 2022 21:34:36 GMT -8
As Annelise had made them aware of her impending arrival before setting out for Fel Tower, her speeder is met upon arriving by Imperial Knight Voshkie Sarkissian., a 43 year old female Atoan with pink skin and dark black hair, who, after greeting Annelise respectfully, had led her into the Tower and to the office of the Grandmaster.
Faina herself is waiting outside of the office to greet Annelise as Voshkie arrives with her, and offers her hand to Annelise as she smiles politely, "Miss Sitar, thank you for agreeing to meet with me so quickly. Faina's tone, like her smile, is in the intentionally chosen middleground between formality and warmth; selected not out of artifice, but out of respect for the fact that some prefer the former to the latter and can be put off balance when there is an imbalance between the two tones. Motioning towards a circular table surrounded by four identical chairs inside the office, Faina says, Please, have a seat."
One of the chairs is occupied by Nicolina, dressed in the black dress uniform of a military officer adorned with the distinctive insignia of the Emperor's Talons and rank insignia of Lt. Col. Nicolina, a dark haired human with a perpetually amused expression, who offers Annelise a casual salute as Faina introduces her, "This is Lieutenant Colonel Foresi. Can I offer you something to drink? Faina asks, Tea or caf?" If half of what Nicolina has told her about what she has heard of Annelise's skills as an aide is accurate, Faina supposes the introduction is unnecessary given the likelihood that Annelise would be able to recognize most, if not all, high ranking Imperial officers by their faces whether or not she has met them personally, but, never one to assume, had made the introduction all the same.
After the matter of drinks has been settled, Faina, who remains standing if Annelise has declined the invitation to sit, or sits should she have accepted it, says, "As I indicated in the invitation, I am wondering if I might employ your services as an aide for a few days. Permitting herself the faintest suggestion of a smile, Faina tilts her head at an inquisitive angle as she adds, Before I get into any specifics, I suppose I had best ask if you would be available and open to doing so, hadn't I?"
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Post by Annelise Sitar on Jul 19, 2022 20:55:36 GMT -8
The reaction caught her off guard. She had not met the Empress before. She had seen her from afar only. Those situations had been carefully crafted to make the woman seem regal and perfect. Despite Annelise's status and job, she was not allowed into the privet meetings. The Grand Moff and her had decided it would be better for her on the outside. Without a security clearance, she was limited but was free to move. It lets her be forgotten and gain other kinds of information. She used these skills to be the best aide. Your... Your highness. I am not an easy person to surprise and catch off guard. I was not expecting an invitation to see you. Much less you and the Colonel, nice to meet you as well. I would always take a water if you have one handy. She accepted the seat. The offer was the second great surprise of the afternoon. Ma'am? I am not sure what exactly I could do for you, I am sure that you have members of your own staff that are better than me? I am just a Grand Moff's aide. She wondered how much of her history the Empress knew. Most of it wasn't in any First Order documents or in any Alliance documents. Even the Republic documents had little about her past life. The only ones were a few on Alderaan and the Grand Moff herself. But, this was the Empress of the greatest political power the Galaxy had seen in ages, and she was the grandmaster of an order of Force users that rivaled any other in history. She could know things no one should.
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