Mavera Nako
Member
Posts: 24 
Affiliation: Dreaming River Clan/First Order
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Post by Mavera Nako on Apr 27, 2024 6:33:40 GMT -8
Mavera was preparing to give a short speech about how her duty was to guard the body of the Emperor and if that body was conscious or not, was less of a sticking point. She would have then tried to subdue the Emperor and force him to abandon ship for his own safety, but thankfully all those thoughts were cut short as word came in that reinforcements had arrived. The witch sighed with relief as she realized she wouldn't have to attempt to bodily overpower the emperor. She gave a small bow to Octavian. I will do as you say, but I do urge you to be not far behind, My lord. At that point she turned and returned to the body of the ship, helping those who needed to be moved, and encouraging those moving slower to move with purpose.
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Nem Yin
The First Order
The dark expanse of the intergalactic void is not as empty as they would have you believe...
Posts: 439
Affiliation: The First Order
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Post by Nem Yin on Apr 28, 2024 5:24:06 GMT -8
After the orbital bombardment had been called off and the Executor had extracted from the planet with the Praetorite's priority alpha target, the Yuuzhan Vong forces had pulled back from their siege of Galactic City, having already venting a terrible wrath upon the continent stretching cityscape in the brief moments before the order was rescinded. Some thought had been turned towards aiding the main portion of the arranged loyalist forces, but Prefect Ur had quickly dismissed the idea, deciding instead that they would return to their roots and take advantage of the chaos.
So it was that the ro'ik chuun m'arh 'Dark Corsair' found its arrest tentacles grappling with an orbit platform as oqa membranes extended from its hull and highly corrosive acid ate through quadanium steel hull plates several inches thick. As the metal ran away like water and the station interior was revealed, a cloud of poison gas flooded through the membrane serving as a cofferdam between ship and station, flowing straight into the orbital platform where it began to painfully asphyxiate the crew inside. When Alith and his team of Praetorite hunters came sprinting through the breach, there were only a few troopers with sealed armour and crew in vacuum suits to contend with. They barely lasted a minute. The Intendant was among them in a blink of an eye, slashing through joints with sweep slices and puncturing seals with thrusting stabs of the twin coufee blades he wielded, making quick work of anyone between him and his target: the command centre. Blood sluiced across the wall and then the floor as he opened the throat of a deck hand standing in front of the blast door controls, tossing the body aside as he jammed a blade under the control panel cover and pried it open, revealing the circuits underneath. Hardly an expert in infidel machines, Alith tucked one of his blades away and retried a magma pebble from his pouch, placing it inside the opening before activating the timer.
He rolled out of the way as the control box erupted in fire and burning hot metal. Nothing happened at first, causing him to worry he'd made a miscalculation, but then after a moment the blast doors slid open as fire emergency protocols kicked in. Wraith like hunters descended onto the crew stationed inside, flickering in and out of reality as their cloaks of nuun bent light and effectively rendered them invisible. Alith's cloaker was only a standard black vacuum variant, but he was also a member of Domain Yin, and able to move unseen without the benefit of sophisticated biots. The young Intendant helped butcher the last of the crew, collecting trophies along with his men. He'd settled on threading infidel fingers through a fibrous gut-string that he wore as a necklace. Taking a minute to study the control, he opened the armoured hangar doors and deactivated the magnetized energy barrier holding in atmosphere, blowing any crew caught in the area out into the vacuum of space. He watched from a console screen as a yorik-trema entered the hangar and began to offload a large dovin basal. "Time to go." Hissed Alith through the starfish shaped gnullith rebreather sealed over the lower half of his face, distorting his voice into a hoarse whisper. The hunters with him began to pull out, silencing any remaining crew they encountered on their way back to the oqa membrane.
Five minutes later and the Dark Corsair detached from the orbital platform, drifting apart before the frigate analogs dovin basal array manipulated gravity to pull it away from the station. The very same thing then happened to the station, as the dovin basal left behind in the platform's hangar began to pull the satellite from its current orbit and send it plummeting towards the surface of the planet like a meteorite. Ur had planned this target strategically. The orbital platform had contained a stockpile of baradium warheads, which Alith and his team had been kind enough to arm before extracting from the station. Back aboard, the Intendant watched from a viewport as the installation glowed orange as it burned up on entry. A massive explosion could be seen from space when the platform inevitably slammed into the fuel refinery on the surface it had been purposefully pulled towards.
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Post by Octavian Delvardus on May 4, 2024 23:37:15 GMT -8
As the platform of Baradium warheads hit a refinery upon the surface of Coruscant, an even greater and more brilliant explosion went off in orbit. The last of the escape pods and transports left the Vigilance, which charged its engines for a lightspeed ram. A vessel that had lasted through a number of campaigns, and became celebrated as the personal command ship of the then Grand Admiral Jenia Kasalle, the warship met its proper end as it launched itself into the starboard of the Pax Imperialis. Joined together in that moment, a rupture occurred as the Super-class Dreadnought bent inward, its metal cracking and breaking before the pressure caused both to rupture from within. Both were legacies of the previous reign, capital vessels that were the forefront of the Imperial Navy and served as commands for a number of the great names of the First Order. With their deaths, a great hole was created within the renegade Imperial fleet... a number of vessels swallowed up by the loss of these two great warships.
As Octavian arrived aboard of the Legalitas, Vice-Admiral Rendrake, as well as Grand Admiral Vasili, and other commanders across the loyalist fleet, even on the communiques of the repositioned Yuuzhan Vong navy, received all manner of surrenders. Other traitor vessels fought on, but there were commanders and captains attempting to surrender and wave their flags of truce. This caused a new phenomena to occur as those still loyal to Baltasar and the cabal turned their guns on not only the loyalists, but those who attempted to surrender. To them, traitors in their own fleet were no better than the enemy in front of them. All this did was create further chaos, a chaos that was completely unwarranted, but there was a loyalty to his traitorous uncle that was to a fault it seemed. Octavian even suspected that mutinies were happening and the cause of his uncle was nothing more than held by tape and string by those few who would not give in.
Coming to the bridge, the young Emperor looked at the communiques, a number even answering to what Nem Yin had declared to the traitors for all to hear. The Imperial felt a sense of stress build at the front of his head causing him to touch it. What a mess... what a tragedy... so many lost and plenty still unwilling to lay down their arms and surrender. The fleet of his uncle had once been bound by years of comradery, now they were turning on one another as they declared for one side or the other. As the ruler, he had to do what he could to control and minimalize loss.
Vice-Admiral, coordinate with the Grand Admiral and the rest of the command staff. Accept the genuine surrenders and assist them in surviving.
Octavian could have said that all were to be punished. But what would that achieve? Nothing but further eroding the once proud military of the First Order.
As for those who refuse, make them bend or... see them destroyed.
Today, this front of the civil war would end. But, like any civil war, it would be bloody to the very last breathe. He couldn't waste time of trying to make people see reason if they were too blinded by their own hubris and misconceptions of loyalty. If they desired to die for the wrong side, then they would die and be forgotten. Octavian lowers his hand fromthe front of his head, turning to look out at the Imperial Center.
Contact the Grand Marshal on the ground. Tell him... the full landfall of the invasion is imminent. Relay coordinates to us on where troops are needed.
It had been bloody and arduous, but one half of why this new conflict existed was to be snuffed out. Yet, deep down, Octavian dreaded the second half. It was one thing to have an uncle raise the flag of rebellion... it was a different beast to face one's twin sibling. One that the Emperor felt was nothing more than a puppet for an even more sinister master.
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Lucius Vasili
The First Order
"Would you like a lesson in the rules of war?"
Posts: 123
Affiliation: The First Order
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Post by Lucius Vasili on May 7, 2024 8:51:08 GMT -8
--The Grand Admiral received no confirmation to his suggestion before his own crew called out the arrivals. Cursing under his breath, he quickly moved to the man and checked the screen. His head lifted slowly as a single heavy breath filled his lungs icon after icon appeared behind them, counting over thirty. A fresh fleet attacking from the rear would be the end for them. Their flagship was already failing and with the Pax still active, retreat wouldn't even be possible.
Yet, those fears were turned to hope as a voice cut through the comms, signaling their loyalty to the Emperor. As the new fleet loomed over head, Vasili moved to the viewport, eyes fixed upon the mass collection of Resurgents and the new vessel that appeared to match the size of the other two beasts in the field. A single fleet that could the tide in any direction had come in their favor. Though they didn't hold the advantage of being at their rear had they been an enemy, it still didn't matter. Their new strength would overcome.
That was only furthered when Octavian ordered all to evacuate from the Bellator to the new flagship with the former being used as a ram. It was a shame, giving up a strong vessel when it could now be saved. Yet, enough time had been wasted and much of the initiate fleet had suffered heavy damage. They would win, but best to preserve the new for what else was to come: advancing on the Ren. Ordering fighters to escort the shuttle, Lucius ordered the fleet to pull back a bit to ensure no got caught up in the lightspeed ram. He didn't know just how such an attack would affect the area and opted to be better safe than sorry.
As the shuttle were escorted, Lucius noticed a bit off from the battle the Vong's attack on a station that had it plunging towards the surface, eventually ending up in a flash that even they could see from here. He couldn't help but feel a bit disgusted at the action. He felt no remorse for the soldiers on board or the loss of the station. It was any civilians that were caught up in the surface impact. How many lives were snuffed out that were simply living. People who didn't get to choose who they followed, but simply had to roll with what life handed them. Not all had the luxury of choice of loyalty as they did, many not able to just up and leave, especially when the coup started here and held them in place. It was war, he reminded himself, so there would be collateral damage. Yet, he couldn't shake the reality feeling that this was beyond necessary.
Before long, though, the time had come and the Vigilance shot forward as it made the jump to lightspeed, only to instantly plow through the Super-class. Other ships were impacted by the hit as well as the explosions from the two ships and others surrounding them. A small domino effect that caused many to begin issuing surrenders. He was glad for that, ready to bring this battle to an end.
But some couldn't just let it go. Not only were many still fighting, but some quickly turned on those that sought to surrender. That was the breaking point for the Grand Admiral. He despised coups and the way it divided men. How many of his own did he have to put down within the Diarchy when that coup started. And here he was seeing it all again. He didn't even need the orders from the Emperor as he ordered his ships forward, full speed and all weapons free. Any who continued to fire at them or turned their guns on who were once considered allies now traitors would feel his wrath. It didn't even matter now if those particulars surrendered after feeling his fury. The moment they turned on their allies who knew the battle was lost were not the men they needed. So eager to blindly fight for a lost cause and see any as an enemy wasn't worth allowing to live. If they truly wanted to fight for this cause, they would until their last breath. He'd make sure of it. Only those who had enough mind to surrender at the Pax's elimination would be spared.-- |
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Nem Yin
The First Order
The dark expanse of the intergalactic void is not as empty as they would have you believe...
Posts: 439
Affiliation: The First Order
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Post by Nem Yin on May 9, 2024 11:07:21 GMT -8
Light blue eye sacks beneath Ur Skell's vermillion mqaaq'it inflated in an expression of amusement as he watched the traitor forces turn on one another from his place on the bridge of the miid ro'ik warship 'Carcharodon', studying the luminous tactical display that depicted icons of enemy ships opening fire on those that had capitulated, sowing further chaos the Praetorite forces were all to happy to take advantage of."Incoming villip transmission...from the Executor, Prefect." Barked a subaltern of the warrior caste stationed at the villip-choir. Time to find out if Nem had been successful, or more likely, was in need of rescue. Leaving the tactical table he'd practically become attached to since the outset of the orbital engagement, the Prefect strode across the bridge to a bio-sealed hatch-sphincter that twitched as he neared. "I'll take it in the command suite." He said, instructing the crew while he left the dwindling battle behind, opening the organic door with a press of his palm. A hidden syringe in the wall stabbed the flesh of his hand and took a tissue sample, confirming his identity before dilating to allow him access. Once inside, he sealed the doors behind him and sat behind a yorik coral desk with a qahsa device and villip shaped into its rough surface. Painful pricks greeted his rump as he settled in on a blood sucking thorn seat that was all to eager for his company. Once he was comfortable, by Yuuzhan Vong standards of course, he stroked the in-built villip and awakened the stalk. It inverted into a familiar face.{{ It's done. }} "You were successful?" The depiction of Nem scoffed. {{ I'm offended you ask, but yes, Stage 2 of Operation Shimrra Falling has been initiated. It's time for the rest of you to play your part. Begin Nempharius protocols. We're in the final act. }}"Then you have made your decision? If so, there is something you may wish to know. The infidel Emperor has mustered a sizable fleet in addition to what was here before you left. By our count, he's added thirty heavy dreadnoughts to his fleet and one super, none of which we were aware of prior to the outset of this conflict."Ridges on the villip doppelganger's brow rose. {{ Is that so? Well, it seems I underestimated the boy's tactical acumen. }} Hissed his whisper thin voice as he assumed more than was actually true, unaware the Emperor had simply gotten lucky. {{ Holding back such a substantial force until an opportune moment is the sort of theatrical flare I'd expect of our caste, Ur. And you wonder why I've always liked these infidels. Sometimes they surprise even me. It changes nothing though. }}The Prefect nodded, then asked what was on most of their minds since the Executor's departure. "Will you be returning to us then?" {{ Not yet. }} The disembodied head attached to the stalk shook from side to side. {{ I still have one more errand to take care of first. Alith can see to briefing the infidels in my stead. Oh, and Ur? }}"Yes?" {{ Well done. }} With a wet squelch, the villip stalk became erect and lost all trace of the Executor's features, disconnecting on Nem's end. The Prefect let out a slow breath, then stroked another reflex on the villip and connected to the ro'ik chuun m'arh 'Dark Corsair' where the youngest member of Domain Yin was currently stationed.{{ What is it Ur? We're pretty busy in case you hadn't noticed. }} His bitterness at being relieved and replaced by the Prefect was all too evident in his tone of voice. "I have something for you to do..."
A short while later, the bridge doors aboard the 'Legalitas' opened with a pneumatic hiss and whoosh of air as a lean Yuuzhan Vong entered the room, arriving shortly after the Emperor and his female bodyguard. Alith was garbed from toe to neck in a glossy black layer of second skin known as an ooglith cloaker, flawlessly adhered to his flesh through cilia inserted into his pores, linking the two living organisms in symbiosis. The Intendant's hood was pulled up over his head, casting the corpse pallor complexion of his face in an obscuring veil of shadow, while the lower half was hidden behind a starfish shaped gnullith rebreather that hissed silently with each exhalation of cold breath. Regularly cobalt blue, the youngest member of Domain Yin had adjusted his mqaaq'it ocular implants to project the same emerald green glow as his domain leader, Nem Yin. Crossing the bridge with a mix of an assassins poise and a void reavers swagger, the Yuuzhan Vong dropped to a knee before Octavian Delvardus, bowing his head as he rested both hands on his bent leg."My Emperor." Hissed the rebreather, distorting Alith's voice into a perfect mimicry of Nem's. Not that Octavian was more than limitedly familiar with it from their brief encounters at Bastion and the coronation that preceded it. "First Prefect Nem of Domain Yin, at your service." He continued, the polished floor still seeming to capture his attention. In fact, the maintenance droids had put such a gleam on it that the Intendant could make out a distorted reflection of the human Emperor refracted off its surface. "I bring news from the Deep Core. Your traitorous sister is mustering her forces at Prakith in anticipation of your victory here." He finally looked up, his luminous gaze studying Octavian's pale human features. "Which given the current state of this battle, I'd say they're more than right about."
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Post by Octavian Delvardus on May 9, 2024 17:09:51 GMT -8
By the time 'Nem Yin' had come to the bridge of the new flagship of the royalist Imperials, things had calmed down. There was still a sense of urgency as orders were relayed, reports made, and communiques listened to. Of the rebel navy surrendering, a significant portion was heavily damaged from the fight. Most of the rear ships were intact though, but it didn't swell the naval numbers by much. The rest would require extensive repairs in loyalist docks of Bilbringi and Yaga Minor. In addition, reports came in as mutinies succeeded and arrested traitorous commanders and officers that were trying to ensure the fighting continued. A handful of ships surrendered wholly without an issue. There would be a lot of paperwork to come as the judicial system worked to determine crimes, punishments, and fines of those who were arrested. A portion of whom were celebrated names among the First Order during the time of Nicademus.
When the Yuuzhan Vong knelt before the Emperor, Octavian had his eyes closed as he used the Force to coerce and pacify enemies that were confused and unsure of what to do. No longer did the Imperial sense the dark presence among the fleet. They likely went down with the once proud vessel of the Empire, destroyed by the ramming of his own late flagship. Utilizing Battle Meditation, those vessels that were uncertain were brought to the ideals of surrendering without an issue... but it was taxing. So, when 'Nem Yin' came to speak, it gave a chance for the Emperor to pause and refocus on other things. His eyes looked at the knelt First Prefect.
Based on what limited Intelligence assets I have at my disposal, I have made the same conclusion. The Ren fleet hasn't been spotted at Kuat, Rendili, Balmorra, or any other world in the Core. Their large dreadnought absent from other sectors. I suspected they fell back to preserve their numbers in the Deep Core, their home advantage for many years now.
Only one way down into that region and that was an assault upon every world towards Prakith, starting with Foerost and onto Empress Teta. This conflict may have been ended on one front, but an even bloodier one was surely to occur in due course. Rest and repairs would need to be done however. The additional ships that Rendrake brought would be helpful, not to mention serviceable ships of his late uncle's naval assets.
It is good to have confirmation of this though. It means we won't have to go across the Empire, searching. They are focused in one area... playing the cornered wolf and hoping to bite off as much as they can. Your agents and yourself must have worked hard to confirm this. You have the Empire's gratitude. My father had spoken highly of your abilities as a spy.
Octavian leans back in his chair, touching his forehead with his palm as the Emperor deeply sighed. This long battle was finally over, the one for Coruscant at least.
I noticed a station which reports say was loaded with Baradium missiles fell onto the world. I can take it that your agents were the ones that achieved this?
A good hole was in the cityscape now, but at least they weren't being utilized as their intended purpose.
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Nem Yin
The First Order
The dark expanse of the intergalactic void is not as empty as they would have you believe...
Posts: 439
Affiliation: The First Order
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Post by Nem Yin on May 10, 2024 18:24:04 GMT -8
"Your father was wise beyond his years and fair handed in his dealings with my people." Replied the Intendant, slowly rising to stand before the seated Emperor. His movements were utterly silent, one might be forgiven for thinking him a mirage, save for the hissing exhalations of the biot sealed over his mouth and stub of a nose. "It was my great pleasure to kill his enemies." His cowl covered head turned to the side, allowing his glowing eyes to focus on the bridge view port, bearing witness to the battle winding down in Coruscant's debris strewn orbit. "You've made some fine ones yourself. I'll kill them too, if you will it." Raised in the blood stained martial tradition of Domain Yin, Alith's path was one of shadow and subterfuge. As Nem had once swore to Nicademus, he would serve his part as the hidden blade...the silent coufee in the dark.
His hands lowered to his narrow hips, resting on a plasma eel worn as a belt through which a twin set of living bone daggers had been thrust, the heel of his palms gently caressing the blunt end of either handle.
"Aye, the station was my doing. A regrettable act, but a necessary one. War is cruelty, my Emperor. There is no use trying to reform it. The crueler it is the sooner it's over, and a swift end to this conflict will spare more lives in the long run. I'd wager it will take a few more cruel acts before we see this war to its inevitable conclusion." He lifted his chin, inclining his head to expose a web of dark veins spiraling away from his glowing eyes. "Victory, of course. Yours. When it's done, I trust you will remember whose blood soaked hands helped you purchase it."
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Post by Octavian Delvardus on May 10, 2024 19:20:15 GMT -8
Octavian looked upon the viewport now, gazing beyond the fleet that was once the strongest of his uncle's assets. His eyes looked towards the gaping hole where the Baradium-filled station had collided with the cityscape and turned the metal and electronics into nothing but smoldering and twisted metal. Allies had turned to enemies, friends betrayed one another, this war was cruel. The Emperor's gaze looked to the side now, watching as the crew upon the bridge scrambled about. His uncle's faction were misguided, but full of their veterans. Now, it was time to turn their guns on the Knights of Ren.
And our next foe knows nothing but cruelty and ruthlessness.
What happened here, over Coruscant, would not happen over Foerost, Empress Teta, Prakith, or anywhere in the Deep Core. The only way to end it was to severe the snake's head from the body. Only then, with the brain removed, the cohesion will dissipate and victory will be his. However, Octavian felt it would be at a great cost. A cost beyond even his own imagination. His gaze turned to 'Nem Yin' as he concluded his words.
The Empire never forgets those who serve and deliver. My father believed in the principle that merit should reap the rewards and the proven be honored above all others. A principle that has served as one of the pillars of the renewed Empire. An Empire that will survive as long as this remains a core value.
His hand came up, rubbing his palm with his thumb. Octavian looked down for a moment, walking around from where he had been seated prior. He passed by 'Nem Yin' walking over to the holoprotector which revealed the map of the situation beyond the Legalitas. The guns had ceased, but everything was still like a hive that had been kicked too much and the bees were unsure of what to do, now that their leader was gone. His hand then became a fist as Octavian turned to the Yuuzhan Vong.
One key thing about this war is the biggest disadvantage we have in intelligence. Director Piett saw it his right to make Imperial Intelligence neutral.
The words that came forth showed an irritation and deep seeded frustration at this fact.
Your agents continue to prove themselves. When this war is over, changes will need to be made, and one of them will be who occupies the role of Director of Imperial Intelligence. The one who will serve me directly and ensure the Empire is kept safe, both from within and without.
Counted among the most powerful of positions, a Director of Imperial Intelligence meant they had extraordinary powers, a supreme authority, and a reach that was as far as the Emperor's was. Even further than that too. Octavian had long decided upon forcing Piett's retirement, after the war, as a punishment for his actions. He was a celebrated Imperial, and there was nothing but wrong reasons and outcomes that could come from his execution for the crime of treason. Hopefully, his words will be enough to give a picture to 'Nem Yin'.
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Nem Yin
The First Order
The dark expanse of the intergalactic void is not as empty as they would have you believe...
Posts: 439
Affiliation: The First Order
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Post by Nem Yin on May 11, 2024 5:56:01 GMT -8
Researching his role meticulously, an essential practice of spycraft, Alith was all too aware his domain leader coveted the position of Director of Imperial Intelligence. Not for powers sake, that had never been Nem's way or a desire he held close to his heart. It was a simple matter of trust. He didn't trust anyone else to do the job better than he could, nor was it arrogance to think he was probably right."It is clear Director Piett has failed in his duty to the Empire, and to you, my Emperor. Any Director worth his officer pins would have seen this conflict coming from lightyears away and taken the appropriate action to snuff the flame of treason as soon as the first embers formed." He stated with a tone as venomous as an amphistaffs fangs. "His unwillingness to take a side reeks of sycophantic cowardice and a genuine lack of spine, traits I do not share. Neutrality?" Alith hissed with scorn. "Neutrality is a lie. By not taking a side he has made his position clear." The Intendant took a step closer to Octavian, gave his head a quick shake, and lowered his voice to a hoarse whisper to make clear his words were for the Emperor and not simply putting on a show for their audience. "As you know, the invasion that brought the Yuuzhan Vong to this galaxy made refugees of my people. I saw what your father had built of the First Order and I chose him as my Emperor. In return, he delivered on every promise he ever made to us. Nicademus was taken from this world far too soon, but before he passed he made clear he chose YOU as his successor. I have never felt a seconds hesitancy where my own loyalty lies. I see the same qualities that made him so remarkable in you, my Emperor."Alith took a step back and turned away from the boy-who-became-king, crossing iron hard arms over his chest as he studied the bridge crew, sizing up Mavera like a cage match opponent in some back alley Nar Shaddaa combat arena. When his words renewed, his could be heard well across the bridge, making his bold claim for all to hear."You'll find I've already forwarded to your liaison officer the Ren fleet composition observed by my agents while investigating the Prakith system. That Mandator V that made such a mess of our forces at Ralltiir, the Thanatos, was witnessed there. I'm certain the Grand Admiral is eager for an opportunity at revenge after the Ren betrayed us. I've since remedied my own mistake by infiltrating their ranks. At this very moment, Harnan and his Knights are sheltered in their Citadel there, batting down the hatches so-to-speak. Your sister as well, though I've taken the liberty to introduce an element that should help weaken her resolve before we come knocking on her door. Let this serve as the first part of my audition for the role of Director, my Emperor. For the second, my other agent..." Nem. "...will serve up a few distractions to disorder the entrenched position of their forces on the ground. By the time the first shot is fired over a red Ren sky, the dominoes will begin to fall."Unrivaled confidence exuded from the Intendant's very pores as he turned back towards Octavian, bowing his head in a humble display of humility that seemed far out of place for one making such a bold claim."The most important thing to know about me, my Emperor, is that I always win. Empower me with your authority, and so will you."
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Post by Octavian Delvardus on May 11, 2024 8:16:35 GMT -8
Octavian remained silent as 'Nem Yin' spoke. It was quite clear that the Yuuzhan Vong was doing what he could to ingratiate himself by denouncing who would likely be his predecessor. However, the Imperial, despite his personal feelings, would not utter so. 'Nem Yin' didn't need to prove his worth through, his actions had already been proven. If Piett had retired any earlier, or died from some circumstance, his late father would have likely elevated the First Prefect to the rank of Director. But, with every new reign, there needed to be opportunity for the successor to promote and elevate those around him. Just as Thomas Zahn was now Supreme Commander of the Imperial Military, Lucius Vasili standing as Grand Admiral of the Imperial Navy, and eventually, 'Nem Yin' would join these ranks.
If the Yuuzhan Vong could do something to destabilize the Ren on their home turf, then perhaps this civil war won't be as bloody in this final stage. But that was likely still nothing but a hope and a dream. Octavian thought about his sister for a moment, a puppet of Harnan Ren, who wanted nothing than to use his sister's name to burn the galaxy. No good would come if he lived any further than this.
I will grant you the title of Deputy Director.
Just as Thomas Zahn had been acting Supreme Commander for a time.
It will put you in place for when the war is over and your elevation will become publicized, like others, when the shadow of this conflict is ended. Not to mention give you legal authority over what elements of the Imperial Intelligence sided with me during this conflict. The enemy has... a shadowy asset, I was told of an Obsidian Order and the name Silas was mentioned by my Supreme Commander and Grand Admiral. Words that Intelligence have been tracking for years now.
It will still, nonetheless, give 'Nem Yin' authority over what loyalist elements had broken away from the neutral Intelligence and joined Octavian. Not to mention, adding what assets and agents the Yuuzhan Vong had control of at present. Given what Director Piett had at his disposal, it would be best not to start a shadow war. If anything, he would listen to an Emperor command for his forced resignation and retirement to ensure 'Nem Yin' would have his promised spot.
But there is more I intend to do for the Yuuzhan Vong. Your rank of First Prefect will become a representative title, a rank befitting the voice of your people. As you become Deputy Director and, after the war, Director, your previous title will represent Yuuzhan Vong interests in the Imperial government. Consider who you want to take over.
A voice in the Imperial government was now a second promise. It would help naturalize citizenship for his people.
Lastly, I will consider addition land grants for your enclaves, similar to that on Shili. I have already considered Garqi and Dantoonine, planets known for their lush and natural environments. Respectful and ideal for your people as intended. But we can discuss that in the future. It is and will be on the table as a reward nonetheless/
Agamar would likely never be considered. The Mandalorians and Yuuzhan Vong were historical enemies. It would only cause trouble. In addition, the Yuuzhan Vong would likely be better among themselves as they transition more so into the Empire's ranks. Based on what was known, they disposed metal and electronics and thrived on natural worlds such as Shili. Garqi and Dantooine would be good worlds considering their vasts tracts of wild lands. Maybe even Dubrillion could be a candidate too.
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Nem Yin
The First Order
The dark expanse of the intergalactic void is not as empty as they would have you believe...
Posts: 439
Affiliation: The First Order
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Post by Nem Yin on May 13, 2024 9:41:07 GMT -8
"You." Hissed Alith as frostily as an abominable snowok scraping ice off a tauntaun's scaly taint, pointing an accusatory finger at Octavian. He appeared on the verge of violence, then erupted in a harsh bark of laughter more befitting of a motley sailor aboard a pirate galleon. "Har Har Har!" The Intendant slapped his knee with his other hand and wagged the long spindly index digit he had directed at the Emperor. "You are without question your father's son, no matter the lies espoused by your sister about your supposed parentage. I accept, full heartedly, my Emperor. Now, I suspect I've distracted that clever mind of yours from killing your enemies long enough. Back to work. You make with the murder and Vasili and I will pick up the slack."
The Intendant stepped aside and out of the Emperor's way, allowing Octavian to resume his Force Meditation should he so desire to do so. His head tilted to the side and he offered Ms. Nako a wink of one glowing green mqaaq'it as he briefly leaned his scarred head towards her, then twirled once around and performed a foppish bow, one arm held loosely against his chest. Bent at the waist with his head focused forwards at the floor, the theatrical Yuuzhan Vong looked up one last time as a final fleeting thought crossed his mind.
"Oh, and should you have the fortune to cross paths with the former Grand Admiral Kasalle, I would refrain from mentioning what befell her most beloved ship. Jenia is a remarkable woman." He acknowledged, straightening his back as he took hold of his chin and nodded thoughtfully. "But a touch frightening when gripped by anger."
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Post by Octavian Delvardus on May 13, 2024 13:23:00 GMT -8
Hopefully, this would enough to satisfy the Yuuzhan Vong. They had not been utilized as military allies, under his late father, but the treaty between them and the Empire did stipulate such a term. After all, Nicademus had granted what he felt they deserved in exchanged: to freely live within the Empire, to utilize Imperial facilities, and to create their own enclaves on approval worlds, such as Shili. In addition, Nem Yin became the first of his kind to be granted an Imperial rank, thus having a foot within the government. Now, his whole person, and that of his subordinates and followers would have the opportunity to do the same under Octavian.
The mention of the supposed parentage did cause Octavian's face to twitch slightly. The report made by the Grand Admiral deeply disturbed him... that his own sister was being manipulated to such a degree that she didn't believe her true father to be Nicademus, but the wretched Harnan Ren. Their mother had loved their father and would not have deceived him in such a way surely. Regaining his composure, the Emperor would sigh lightly, looking at the wreckage of the two Dreadnoughts from before.
Jenia Kasalle will understand the sacrifice though, Nem Yin.
It was a necessary one in order to create the breakthrough necessary.
It conserved the rest of our fleet from the Pax Imperialis' firepower. Something which had already claimed many ships upon the flanks of the Vigilance.
Two of the great names of his late father were nothing but twisted metal now, floating in space.
One must do what is necessary after all.
Octavian concludes as he resumes with sitting upon his command chair. He exhales slightly, allowing the Force to engulf him once more as he began to re-use his Battle Meditation to sweep away what remained of resistance and indecision. It was a hard fought victory, but was it something that could be avoided? It was hard to say now with his uncle dead and so too his supporters.
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Jenia Kasalle
Databank Operations
Posts: 512
Affiliation: First Order
Traffic Light: Green
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Post by Jenia Kasalle on May 19, 2024 16:38:59 GMT -8
Coincedence or not, it was roughly around this point, when several Imperial ships appeared at the edge of the system, immidiately hailing the frequency of Octavian's fleet. Loyal ships, not enemy reinforcements. A relief to be sure.
Yet probably even more relief, when the holographic image of Grand Admiral Jenia Kasalle showed up on the bridge of the Legalitas. Without hesitation, she lowered her head in respect immidiately in front of Octavian.
::My Emperor, I apologize the delay of my arrival and will get into details later.::, she stated firm, ::But it seems like we are still in time. I have two Acclamator-Class Assault ships alongside the Charybdis, ferrying both forces from the 709th and the 187th Legion, should the situation require additional support on the ground assault. Maxima-A-class Cruisers stand ready, deploying TIE-wings immidiately.
Status on the battlefield?::
While Jenia had only some rough intel onto the situation upon her way here, it seemed like it was a good call that she had switched at Yaga Minor for a detachment, that embodied more of a support strikeforce than actual Star Destroyer power. Both the Acclamators and the two Maxima-As would bolster enough forces, that would give Octavian's forces the upper edge in both space and ground combat over the capital city.
Certainly a risky move, given that her usual strategies relied more on her Victory-Star Destroyer taskforce but in times of civil war it was necessary to ensure that the capital would remain in loyalist hands as a sign of hope. Therefore the Grand Admiral's decision of bringing both of her prized elite Legions into battle was a calculation made out of the need for hope.
No matter how many veteran Stormtroopers would have to lose their lifes this day, it was of utmost importance that they would hold Coruscant to show the strength of Octavian to the wider galaxy. He wouldn't lose what his father had obtained.
Not today.
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Post by Octavian Delvardus on May 19, 2024 19:18:55 GMT -8
With one meeting concluded, another began. Octavian opened his eyes once more to see the holoimage of Jenia Kasalle not far from where he was. The Emperor stood up and walked over to the holoprojector, allowing himself to come into view on the bridge of the Supreme Commander's bridge. In truth, Octavian felt tired and probably looked it. The Emperor had done his best to maintain composure and rely on the tactical prowess of his commanders while also aiding their side with the Force. Glancing slightly at the smoldering and floating remains of the Bellator-class flagship during her tenure as Grand Admiral, the Emperor turns back and addresses Jenia.
The battle has been concluded. I have received reports of my uncle's death at the Imperial Palace not long ago. According to the transmission by Colonel Ferrum, Baltasar took his own life in the palace. We have been receiving surrender requests from across his fleet and ground forces. I suspect the Grand Marshal will appreciate the reinforcements.
The sooner they could secure the planet, the sooner they could rest, repair, and recuperate before moving onto the Deep Core.
Unfortunately, the Vigilance and Pax Imperialis are no more. The former was forced to be scuttled and rammed into the latter.
A necessary sacrifice before the arrival of this new flagship that had seeming come from somewhere. However, Vice-Admiral Rendrake refused to answer questions right now. He stated that his orders were sealed by the authority of the late Emperor. And there were no records of this vessel's construction nor where it was built. Perhaps Rendrake will tell his new Emperor one day about this.
For now, send your troops to the planet's surface and have your fleet join us, Supreme Commander. You are welcomed on the bridge of the Legalitas.
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Jenia Kasalle
Databank Operations
Posts: 512
Affiliation: First Order
Traffic Light: Green
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Post by Jenia Kasalle on May 20, 2024 2:22:11 GMT -8
If Kasalle felt anything about the message of the Vigilance's fall, she didn't show it. As most likely expected, she seemed to feel more logical about the whole situation, given her military position.
::There is no need to explain, my Emperor::, she adressed the matter at hand regarding the dreadnaughts, ::It is unfortunate that it had to come to this, yet I'll sleep better knowing that no rebells will controll a dreadnaught that might cause our undoing.
I'll immidiately take a shuttle and give the order for landing.::
The Supreme Commander waited for some time, if there was any response incoming before she would bow another time and end the transmission. Without hesitation she gave controll over the Charybdis to the next officer in line, eventually making her way towards the landing bay of the Star Destroyer.
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Post by Roland Ferrum on Jun 6, 2024 15:52:23 GMT -8
*Roland hoped that the chance to fly again would bring a little bit of joy to the events of the day. Unfortunately the cockpit of his TIE Interceptor was only home to memories of the past and worries about the future. The empire he had grown up in, been molded by, was crumbling to infighting, and the datacard Batasar had given him only increased his trepidation as it showed the signs of a shadowy plot moving against them all and he couldn't help but feel like a puppet on a string, and that was not a feeling he appreciated. This day should be one of triumph, as the plans he had labored for months to lay the groundwork for were successful, instead all he could feel was that the whole thing had been a waste. Soldiers who should have stood side by side instead slew each other by the thousands. It was pointless. He slammed his first against the side of his cockpit, momentarily unable to keep control of his frustration and anger, allowing himself a few moments to feel his feelings and released them from their usual control into one long scream into the void...
The flight from the planet up to new flagship of the First Order was long enough for Roland to regain his composure so that by the time he landed in one of the massive warship's hangar bays and dismounted the aging fighter among it's much newer cousins he'd returned to the grim mask he'd developed during his time under the traitor's thumb. After the usual formalities Roland removed the life support pack and helmet of a TIE pilot, revealing his sweat matted hair and grim eyes. The young lieutenant that had been sent to escort him to the Emperor didn't seem bothered by his current state and Roland himself was well past the point of caring about how he looked so he simply followed the young man to the bridge.
Roland walked forward with confidence, although he knew that his appearance was far from confidence inspiring. Aside from his sweat matted hair and scruffy unshaven chin the grey and blue modified scoutrooper armor of the Imperial engineers that he wore looked worse for wear. Outside of the obviously hastily repainted red left arm the rest of his armor was scuffed, dented, scored, and burned from actions both this day and since the initial coup. Despite his disheveled appearance the sight of his cousin was enough to bring out a hint of his old smile as he dropped to one knee.* "Emperor Delvardus.." *He paused for just a moment trying to thing of what to say first, before settling on something that amused him.... even if perhaps now was not the time for levity, he needed to feel something other than sorrow.* ".. what took you so long?" *He looked directly up at his cousin then, ignoring what was right and proper and instead feeling for just a single moment like they were kids again and that they weren't stuck on the precipice of change trying not to be cursed by it as his face blossomed out of the gloomy mask he'd worn for so long and into one of his more mischievous smiles.*
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Post by Octavian Delvardus on Jun 12, 2024 15:17:24 GMT -8
When an officer came to say that Roland Ferrum had been cleared for landing, Octavian exhaled a deep sigh of relief. His family had already suffered each with the ones, that they loved, departing this world for the next. Fatigue claiming his father, the consequences of a coup claiming his mentor and uncle, Brock, and then suicide claiming his uncle, Baltasar... Coruscant had become a cursed world for the Delvardus family. It had been the grave of three senior members of their family, all of whom helped shape and be leaders of the First Order before and after Octavian and his siblings and cousins were born.
His father had been the leader of a renewed effort to establish an Imperial hegemony across many star systems and re-founded the Empire as a result. His uncle, Brock, had been the leading Imperial Knight, alongside his stepmother, Faina Nikulin. Many were mentored by him, including Fiora, Roland, Remus, and Yvaine. He had been one who his brothers and sisters of the Imperial Knights looked up to and sought advice at many turns. And, despite being a traitor, Baltasar had been a key factor in the evolution of the Imperial Army and Stormtrooper Corps. His daughter, Amaris, was a member of the Corps herself and Baltasar was given the honor of being the Empire's first Grand Marshal. Coruscant claimed all three of these men... aided by schemes and ill intentions towards his family.
When Roland came into his presence, Octavian sensed it. He turned just as his cousin struck that smile and spoke. The Emperor looked tired and many thoughts were present within his mind, evident by the look in his eyes. It took a moment to realize Roland was there, a moment to speak with a tired mind within his head.
Thank the stars you are alive, Roland.
For Roland was his foremost friend, despite their beginnings as children. The strength in his right arm and good source of advice and counsel.
Baltasar and Ren forces were adamant in keeping us afar from the Imperial Center. You must have really been a nuisance to the traitors here.
Octavian offers a tired smile before reaching to grasp Roland's hand, his free one resting on his shoulder.
...did you manage to find Yvaine and Amaris?
Was there any other news on the rest of his family? Octavian recalled these two being on Coruscant and nothing had been heard of their whereabouts.
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Post by Roland Ferrum on Jul 9, 2024 15:09:51 GMT -8
*A combination of Octavian's condition and the memories of dead friends that the Emperor's questions wiped any last vestiges of Roland's forced joviality from his face, his eyes returning to the haunted cast they'd gained while on Coruscant as the faces of everyone he'd lost slid across his minds eye, his own father's foremost among them.* "I'd hope I was a bit more than a simple nuisance." *He spoke with a cold tone, not angry, but simply speaking without emotion, as if he were an outside observer simply borrowing his voice. This detachment too had become an old friend on Coruscant, a way to put aside the pain of what happened and trudge ever forward.*
*Life returned to his eyes as his cousin gripped his hand and shoulder, the physical touch of his closest friend pulling him back to himself and he was able to offer up a tired smile in return.* "Yvaine was found. I was able to aide her and Jin's escape from the prison they were taken from. She is currently with her mother..." *Concern etched itself across his face.* "...who has yet to recover from witnessing........." *He trailed off still unable to say out loud that his father was dead so instead he quickly shifted to the other part of that question.* "As far as Amaris, she was separated from the other two before we arrived though I made a promise to her father before he died that I'd collect her and her mother from where they are and bring them to you, a promise I intend to keep." *He left those simple statements hand there for now. There was a lot in what he'd said that might peak the Emperor's interest, from the presence of Jin Song on Coruscant to the condition of the dowager empress to the fact that he'd talked to the traitor before his death.*
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Post by Octavian Delvardus on Jul 10, 2024 16:11:41 GMT -8
Octavian opens his mouth slightly before closing it. The Emperor looked tired and felt it considering what they had done to get back to the Imperial Center and seeing one part of this rebellious period to be brought to an end. Many sleepless nights, wondering if others of his family were alive and why Fiora had declared her own rebellion against him, her twin brother. He took a moment to contemplate before beginning to speak again.
Knowing that you a Ferrum, you made sure they paid. Why else would have such a heavy presence here?
A deep sigh followed at hearing Yvaine, Amaris, and Faina were safe from the violence and death of traitorous actions. His hands came up to his face as Octavian rubs his skin, feeling total relief. Remus, Roland, Yvaine, Amaris, his stepmother... they were alive and unharmed. The Emperor turned away for a second, but paused when his eyebrow arched slightly. He turned to Roland.
Jin? What was Jin doing on Coruscant? I thought she would be on Prakith with Fiora.
Jin Song was the right-hand of his sister, professionally, while personally she was many things. Most notably Fiora's closest friend. Why she was on Coruscant then?
Where is my stepmother? And did my uncle say anything?
Further questions that needed answering. Roland had presented some intriguing interactions.
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Nem Yin
The First Order
The dark expanse of the intergalactic void is not as empty as they would have you believe...
Posts: 439
Affiliation: The First Order
Traffic Light: Blue
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Post by Nem Yin on Jul 11, 2024 19:00:09 GMT -8
After his meeting with the Emperor, Alith found his way back to the Dark Corsair, just in time to witness a unique sight. A wet squelch followed the dilation of an opening hatch-sphincter as the youngest member of Domain Yin entered the bridge. The bio circuits connected the ro'ik chuun m'arh's numerous sensor beasts to its command centre, projecting on the main viewspider an image of what the Yuuzhan Vong frigate saw. Gliding gracefully through the dense debris of the orbital battlefield, whose usually vacant void was now unnaturally choked with the detritus left behind, some of which was still burning... Thank goodness for Mekneks. ...was a flock of green skinned Sivilith. Long flexible tentacles extended from their undersides and probed through the corpses of dead ships, seeking frozen morsels of biomass and perhaps a body preserved well enough to be of some use to the Executor's REPLICANT initiative. The Yuuzhan Vong had been doing this sort of thing for a long time and they knew that the battlefield after a victory was often the first thing ignored. Victory was for the living; the dead could wait. After the battle had ended, it was with good fortune and no shortage of skill that the Praetorite Vong fleet remained largely intact. The star destroyer sized miid ro'ik warship 'Carcharodon', remained the focus of its formation, harvesting raw materials from dead space ships to refuel its magma chambers and satiate the living ships hunger. Wounds earned in battle were soon turned to scars. Outliers of the fleet, mostly lobster shaped yorik-vec gunships, harassed the civilian lanes of traffic. They helped themselves to the pick of their cargo, then graciously sent them on their way, mostly. A few met the pricking end of a coufee dagger, though to be fair they had proven themselves far from the brightest. The Yuuzhan Vong fleet was a bissop that chafed at its leash, hungry for further spoils, eager for the hunt. The holonet relays, previous bypassed and sliced into by Mabugat kan, relinquished their disquieting grasp, letting the overwhelming eruption of information to form another layer of distraction for the Praetorite's true intent.At the blaze bug tacticalith aboard the bridge of the Carcharodon, Ur Skell's green ocular orbs stared at a holographic image of the Prakith System, last relayed by the Bleeding Orifice shortly after departing the planet. The jaw of his skeletal visage clicked as he raised his fright inspiring face, glaring ghoulishly at his subordinate. "I have an idea. Remember the moon." And the scheme was hatched.
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