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STAR WARS: Ashes of the Empire V

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OFFICE OF GRAND MOFF SETT VARIAN​

GRAND ADMIRAL ZZAVIAN SLYCE BAOBAB (@JuliusNepos)

Grand Admiral Baobab, I have been made aware of the events over Imperial Center, the deposing of Grand Vizier Sate Pestage and this so-called proclamation of this new dual Imperial Regency Council. These events are entirely against the ideals of the New Order and preservation of the Empire itself. Already I have seen many cast themselves from Imperial Center's authority, and stability is now effectively gone.

As such, I have enacted the Bastion Protocols effective immediately. I ask for your support to preserve what we can here in the north of the galaxy, I will await over codename Bastion, which the location has been relayed to you. Let us survive the chaos before us Grand Admiral.

Long Live the New Order.
 
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​


Declaration of the Loyalist Triumvirate​

♫
Gentlemen of the Empire. I never in my long years of service ever expected to have to write anything like what I am writing right now. I do not need to tell you that these are dark times for the Empire. The Emperor was a good friend, a mentor, and a hero to the all the galaxy. When I first processed the death of the Empire my heart was heavy, but I had faith in the Empire and the New Order and expected all good loyalists to do their duty and steward the new order. Instead it seems that hardly a moment passes without new news from Coruscant about short sighted men tearing the Empire apart. Maddox, Takel, now Gaul and Dellian. In the time where were facing a future without the wisdom of Palpatine we should have trusted in his foresight and his chosen successor, The Imperial Vizier. Regrettably the chaos in the core has reached a point where I do not feel I can continue to do my duty to the Empire, the New Order, and Palpatine while hampered by its disorder. Therefore I have no choice but to activate the Bastion Protocols and announce the creation of the Northwestern Loyalist Triumvirate, to preserve the Empire from the chaos of backbiting nobles and their self aggrandizing new 'senate' in the core.​
 
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SIDESTORY: Declaration of the Alliance of Free Planets
  • Sidestory
    • ​

    ""We must decide how best to enjoy and preserve our hard won freedom."
    ―Admiral Ackbar

    The last five months had seen the galactic rise of what started as a disconnected and fledging movement of desperate people of all walks of life with one common goal: the downfall of the Empire. Across the galaxy hundreds of planets had thrown off the yoke of oppression and terror, though many more continued to suffer under the boot of the Imperial. Trillions suffered and awaited liberation as forces continued to unite and join together to bring about the voice and power of freedom.

    With the fall of much of the Galactic South with what many coined the "Ackbar Offensive" it became clear that, for the first time, the Rebel Alliance could and would hold swaths of territory against the Empire. Vast resources were being pooled together to build up military forces across countless worlds as scattered Sector groups, once operating in the shadows combined to become operational forces under a united hierarchy as Alliance Command reorganized and adjusted with the victory at Endor.

    The military was not the only ones reorganizing as the governing body of the Rebel Alliance met for hours above the temporary 'capital' of Naboo as Admiral Ackbar and his commanders sought to free as many worlds as they could. Former Senators, Planetary figures, resistance group leaders, displaced elected officials, and many more met to hammer out how the Rebel Alliance would move forward as more worlds joined or were liberated.

    In the midst of these debates and meetings word arrived of yet another coup on Imperial Center, seeing the downfall of Sate Pestage and the complete fracturing of Imperial control and authority across the galaxy. If Endor hadn't been a sign this certainly was. Many wished to see the return of the Republic, an institution that had lasted tens of thousands of years. Yet others, mostly from the outer rim, were hesitant, if not outright against the return, still remembering the Clone Wars and the treatment the Rim had experienced.

    Two leaders of the Rebel Alliance, former Senator Mon Mothma and Princess Leia Organa returned from Bakura, spent several days behind closed doors meeting with officials as they worked tirelessly to form a framework for a workable government and how it would be governed. Slowly but surely representatives from many worlds, Kerrithrarr from Kashyyyk, Doman Beruss of Corellia, Jenssar SoBilles of Duro, Borsk Fey'lya for the Bothans, Verrinnefra B'thog Indriummsegh from Elom, Sian Tevv of Sullust, Admiral Gial Ackbar and many others were brought into the fold behind a new organization and government.

    A great conference was held, "The Conference of Free People" which was attended by many worlds and representatives which included the Aqualish, Bith, Em'liy, Ewoks, Hoojibs, Humans, Jawas, Ortolans, Pinruquians, Rodians, Twi'likes, Ugnaughts, Patorians, Umbarians, Wookies, and countless other species. After days and weeks of grueling work and discussion, an agreement was made that all could unite behind and a declaration was prepared.

    ""We, the members of the Rebel Alliance, formally announce our intention to restore the glory of the Old Republic… to create a New Republic. Where Palpatine failed to serve his people, we intend to restore the freedoms he so casually dismissed. The Alliance of Free Planets, freely offers membership to any world that wishes to throw off the Empire's yoke and take up the struggle to end the nightmare of the New Order."

    It would followed by several other tenets that included:
    • Military Action: The Alliance of Free Planets would refrain from military actions in or near civilian areas, though battle stations and garrisons would continue to be viable military targets.
    • Equality Among Species: The Alliance of Free Planets would welcome any individual, regardless of species, who wished to join the alliance.
    • Social Responsibility: The Alliance of Free Planets sought to restore the principles of the Galactic Republic, and thus intended to restore free expression among its citizens, media, and arts.
    • Tolerance: The Alliance of Free Planets would not tolerate any further attempts by the Galactic Empire to conquer or otherwise destroy planetary civilizations, and would meet such efforts with military force.
    • Morality: The Alliance of Free Planets hoped to create a more open society and a government accountable to its citizens' will.
    A new Government and organization had been formed, a new light to shine bright across the sea of darkness that had engulfed the galaxy. The Alliance of Free Planets was born and perhaps soon… a New Republic.
     
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  • Sidestory


    • The Principles of the New Order​

    True believers of the Commission for the Preservation of the New Order have always opposed secession. Our mandate is to preserve the ideological integrity of the entire Empire from the deepest recesses of the Core to the wildest sectors of space. In this regard, it has no unwavering loyalty to personalities alone. As long as the Imperial Center is trusted by the conscientious, we must follow it. Imperialists! The struggle of the movement is against the return of weakness to the Galactic Republic. Do not destroy the unity we have worked so hard to maintain. No matter the language of these "successor" states, no matter the previous "achievements" of their protagonists, their act of rebellion leaves them only the fate of death. For if we cease to be a counterweight to secessionism today, the galaxy will belong to alien elements whose covetous hand seeks only the blood of your family, the downfall of your culture, and the end of your nation! ​
     
    Fulfilling Our Obligations
    The House of Sal



    Sann Sal

    ---
    ​
    Utterly oblivious to everything else going on, Sann Sal, a respected member of the House of Sal and former employee of CorSec, has departed for Fondor to uphold certain marital arrangements made between himself and Grand Moff Tandi Maxcetus. It is unknown if anyone will bother alerting Sann to occurrences elsewhere in the former Galactic Empire.​

    @FantasticMsFox
     
    And So It Begins

    It was all fire.

    The Stars. The Galaxy. The Empire.

    His head.

    Why did he drink so much? Where did he get so much alcohol? There were (Three? Six? Maybe nine) bottles on his desk. Counting was hard. Thinking was hard. Existing was Torture.

    Maddox had been a bout of madness. The first inkling of a deep-run disease. Put down like a dog with flash and show, and while everyone was looking at the pretty lights, the cracks formed beneath the surface.

    Phita had been the first symptom. Comparatively small. Quick. Barely noticeable with all that was going on. She followed Maddox and her actions were lost in the chaos. Another coup on Imperial Center had been unexpected and shocking, no doubt, but put down swiftly. Things had been shaky, no doubt. But they could still hold.

    This... he was too hungover to think of a poetic metaphor for what was happening now. Fire. Chaos. Those weren't really metaphors but, then again, he didn't really care. The fleet was in orbit around Gacerian. His men were confined to their posts, the fleet's communications locked down. The only Holonet transceiver left active was his own and he had spent the last day and a half reading through dozens - no, hundreds of messages as the Empire buckled.

    Warlords. Traitors. Separatists. His direct commanding officer was calling for the Empire to burn.

    Surface Marshal Kravic Vonsol, Commander of the 13th Sector Army, pulled himself off the floor and sat at his desk. He rested his head in his hands.

    Was this a dream? Was he finally having a complete mental breakdown after the failure of Buried Dagger? His fervent wish was to wake up from this fugue state and see a fleet of Star Destroyers standing by to reinforce him. A fresh Sector Army standing by to join his glorious offensive! An Executor for him to command! The Rebels driven from the stars and their bones broken beneath his feet!

    He wished he was dreaming of glorious, victorious war! The death struggle, the siege, the mop-up operations on conquered words!

    If he had to dream, he wished it was of pleasant things. Alas, it was not to be. Not now. Perhaps not ever again.

    But... was this not what he wished?

    This was war. This was to be a war that would make the Clone Wars look like childs play. Two sides? Two armies? Try five! Twelve! Fifty?! Who knew how many there would be tomorrow?

    Wars across prairies, through cities, in trenches, in grasslands, in frozen tundras, through deserts, on the seas, in the stars, across every sector of space that had ever been touched by human hands! Millions of soldiers - no! Billions! Kravic was looking up now, into the lights of his personal quarters, and the pain of his headache became a burning, searing clarity. The struggle against the Rebellion would be nothing compared to this. Silken Star? Buried Dagger? Merely a prelude.

    This was War. War so grand that hell itself would shudder in fear. War to shatter the galaxy like nothing in a thousand years.

    It would be beautiful. He wasn't cursed. This wasn't a nightmare. It was a vision. A vision of a future where he would thrive. A future of ecstasy.

    Kravic Vonsol, alone in his quarters, smelling of alcohol and sweat and a thousand other terrible things, imagined the future. And he laughed. And laughed. And laughed. He did not stop until his throat was hoarse and his eyes streaked with tears.

    And then he stood, and went to clean himself and his quarters.

    War was coming, and he wouldn't miss it for all the wealth in the Galaxy.​
     
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    DANCING ON THE GRAVE​

    The room was dark, the lights dimmed on the black reflective panels, and soft classical chandrillian music played throughout it.

    Jal Zeid danced slowly, blissfully, his arms held up as if there was a partner in front of him. But he was the only one in the room. His personal quarters were sparse, save for the odd trophy or two. That would change in the days to come, but for now he enjoyed it as it was: A blank slate. Jal hummed along to the music, shifting his lit pipe as he moved gracefully through his room.

    What a week. What a week. Manko Gaul and that child Dellian had made their move, Imperial Center had been lit aflame, and that fire had spread to the rest of the Empire. Imperial after Imperial had come to see what Jal had seen, warlord after warlord had spawned into being in the ashes of Pestages defeat.

    He twirled with his imaginary partner, his humming only broken by a brief chuckle.

    He had put his life into the Galactic Empire. But it died with Palpatine. The events that occured after Endor only confirmed this. Three coups within five months on Imperial Center. And only the third proves successful.

    Ah, but for how long? That was the question. But it wasn't up to Jal Zeid to answer it.

    He moved in lockstep with his imaginary partner, hands resting on nonexistent hips and shoulders.

    And this declaration of a New Republic…were they all doomed? Maybe, maybe not. Conquering a galaxy was difficult work, ruling it moreso. The rebels would get mired in it. But as for Jal, well, he had already seized his destiny with both hands. His wife was dead, his daughter had vanished from the face of the galaxy. He hadn't heard from her in years. But that was alright. Everyone had their role to play, unless they decided to break from the mold.

    So much to do, so much to do. And now with Pestage having been knocked off his throne, it all seemed possible. The galaxy was alive, vibrant with chance and reality. And here Jal was, with his own slice of the pie. It wasn't very big, not yet, but he and Pho had their plans. Their destinies to enact. Some might find the end uncertain, but he knew only two paths lay ahead of him now. Victory or death. What a ride it will be.

    He twirled, bending to lower his imaginary partner in an elaborate move, before sweeping back up to his feet.

    Everything was on fire. They were all piling on the kindling. Him, Pestage, Gaul—the rebels too. All of them were complicit. How his life had changed over these past twenty years! It would have been unimaginable in his youth, but now he has seen a thousand year old republic fall and be reborn within a span of nearly three decades. But this rebirth of theirs depended on their unity, and with victory seemingly so close would they possibly hold together? Maybe, maybe not. But they were in his way regardless.

    The song ended, the lights brightened, and Jal's hands dropped to his side. He stared at nothing, singular finger twitching.

    He simply wanted to decide. That was all. It didn't matter what the decision was, so long as it was his to make. Jal had served the Galactic Empire loyally, but Maddox had been a signal, a sign of what was to come, and Zeid simply decided to stay ahead of the curve. Pho was a good sport about it, and the Supreme Protectors' own ideas had some merit to them. Ah, and then the new acquisition. Liknar. A husk, it seems like, but one that was usable all the same. Good pilots would be needed in the REA in the days to come.

    Yor Tuft and his propagandists in COMPSOR said it was all for the salvation of the New Order.

    For High Admiral Jal Zeid, it was simply his own salvation.

    He bowed to nothing, then turned and left.

    There was much to do.
     
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    TRANSMISSIONS FROM THE OFFICE OF IMPERIAL REGENT GAUL    ​


    ON THE ACCOLADES OF TEREK CORLISS | @iAmJimmyHoffa

    "It cannot be overstated the necessity of our Imperial Navy in the steadfast defense of our Empire and its New Order. Whereas some have pointed to the actions of Keldor Maddox to besmirch the reputation of the Navy, we cannot forget the brave defenders of Imperial Center serving in our Navy and Army. They have been arrayed since our Empire's inception against secessionism, rebellion, and warlordism. Those that have remained true to our Empire embody the best we have to offer, bound in defense of an ideal greater than themselves.

    It is with pride that I name Terek Corliss, Vice-Admiral and Commander of the Namadii Fleet, as one among those great men. Through the Clone Wars, through the Western Reaches campaign, Corliss has served with distinction. For that reason, I recognized his talent, employed him in the Namadii Fleet, and worked alongside him to restore Imperial order along the Celanon Spur, bringing peace to Dorin at long last. In conjunction with Admiral Irov Lanin, Vice-Admiral Corliss demonstrated the truest values of an Imperial citizen: courage, dedication, and intelligence. There is little doubt that his personal presence on Imperial Center during a time of sedition, during the abortive coup by Isard, was likewise instrumental at keeping our Empire safe. Without his efforts, the seat of our Empire may very well have fallen.

    For that and much more, Vice-Admiral Corliss must be commended. The great and powerful of the Empire are those that the late Emperor sought to uplift, to empower, to provide as example to the rest of us. Under his Empire and his New Order, men of value are to be celebrated, and so it must continue to be. Through my authority as Imperial Regent, I issue the following directives to faithfully pursue this ideal and to inspire greater deeds ahead:

    In recognition of his grand and unprecedented service in defense of the Empire, Terek Corliss is to be given the new honorific of Generalissimi of the Empire, conferring with it the prestige and reverence due to the ancient title of old Atrisia.​
    ​
    In recognition of his long-standing service to the Empire and the value his personage, Terek Corliss is to be awarded the honorific of Baron of the Empire, to be accompanied by an adequate estate as befits its nobility on his homeworld of Imperial Center.​
    ​
    In recognition of his military acumen and natural leadership, Terek Corliss is to be promoted to the rank of High Admiral, providing all due honors and command.​

    Let Generalissimi Corliss be what all Imperials aspire to be - a noble soul, a heroic man, a steadfast servant."

    His Serene Highness
    IMPERIAL REGENT MANKO GAUL    ​


    ON THE NATURE OF THE IMPERIAL SENATE

    "The institution of the Senate during the era of the Republic was one of inefficiency and discord. It was only through the hand of Emperor Palpatine that the unruly body was properly managed towards the cause of victory and the promulgation of the New Order. The evolution of that body to that of the Imperial Senate allowed for us a vision of what the Empire could achieve when we allowed principles to govern. The Senate once trimmed of its aliens, its meek, its incapable, was instrumental in realizing the Empire on a galactic level.

    It was only the intercession of traitors that forced our Emperor's hand in dissolving the Senate. And while the destiny of extinguishing the rebel flame has yet to be reached, it must be understood that the Imperial Senate must again be reconvened to restore galactic stability. But in building on the legacy of Emperor Palpatine, we understand the absolute necessity of qualifying its membership. To serve on the Imperial Senate is to represent the New Order, requiring the most esteemed character. We shall not go to the failed styles of the Republic, wherein throngs of clambering voices drowned out the knowledgeable and just. We shall instead forge a lean body that elevates those deserving of galactic power, the wise and learned, the cultured and aware, the powerful and pure.

    In establishing this new, select membership, we shall rely heavily on the sage counsel of those proven and trusted by our late Emperor: his closest advisors on his Ruling Council, his trusted Grand Moffs of his civil government, and his ideological thinkers of COMPNOR. The leal service of this restored body will show the enduring legacy of our Empire, a body politic of, by, and for our New Order."

    His Serene Highness
    IMPERIAL REGENT MANKO GAUL​


    ON THE STATUS OF COMPNOR

    "The Committee for the Preservation of the New Order remains the ideological heart of our Empire. Whereas we are beset by a Rebellion born of alien degeneracy and secessionists who entreat aliens into their very governments, COMPNOR has been at the forefront of galactic dialogue to oppose this moral backslide.

    It cuts no deeper than the Imperial Security Bureau, which saw its leadership infested with opportunists and career exploiters. But whereas others would turn a blind eye, COMPNOR chooses its loyalty to the Empire over all else. It had the strength to clean its own house, to impose order on its own chaos. And in doing so, COMPNOR has played yet another role in preserving the integrity of our Empire and its New Order.

    More than ever, the political education of our Imperial citizenry must remain a chief priority. It is the intention of the Imperial Regency Council to expound its support for the great many visionary ideals of COMPNOR today, and to lend to it an unprecedented level of coordination for the betterment of our galaxy."

    His Serene Highness
    IMPERIAL REGENT MANKO GAUL​
     
    The Force and the War​

    "Who are you for? You take a veteran's hands to be even vaguely useful, yet every academy fresh rookie is shoved into you. You offer no slack for a novice, no survivability for an ace. You're cheaper than air, yet when we adopted you we had enough credits to buy a fighter ten times better." Keon didn't actually say those words to the TIE fighter he was sitting in. They were more like a string of coughs from the death sticks he was smoking.

    The TIE Fighter cradled him like the worst kind of lover. Unforgiving, hurtful, and cruel. Demanding Keon's body bend and twist into an inhuman shape and abandoning any scrap of identity. THE WAR, OF COURSE. It answered, with the help of the death sticks he'd just smoked that had come from a particularly weird batch.

    "You suck at war, though. If you didn't, we wouldn't be in this mess." Keon said by letting out another puff of smoke, which to his brain formed into a double of one of the ones that he'd seen come from a house he'd bombed flat.

    NOT THE POINT. WE MAKE MEN INTO MISSILES. TO BE SOMETHING LOADED AND SHOT IS THE HIGHEST STATE OF A SOLDIER, THE TIE IS THE CLOSET EMBODIMENT OF THAT SO FAR, AT LEAST UNTIL THEY CRACK TURNING CORPSES INTO TIBANNA GAS.

    Keon replied with a nod. He was pretty sure someone in the Empire, somewhere, was working on that.

    YOU KNOW, THAT'S WHY THE SEPS LOST THE CLONE WARS. TRIED TO MAKE MISSILES THAT ON OCCASION MIMICKED MEN. CLONES WERE NONOPTIMAL AS WELL, MEN GROWN AS MISSILES. THE BEST ONES HAVE A PAST TO BURN.

    He knew that was true from personal experience. But then he wondered. "What's so good about being a missile?"

    IT CONNECTS YOU TO US. TO WAR.

    "To war?"

    IF THERE IS AN ENERGY FIELD THAT CONNECTS ALL LIFE IN THE GALAXY, THEN WHAT CONNECTS THE DEATH? THERE IS THE FORCE, AND THERE IS THE WAR. LIGHTSABERS FOR JEDI. TIE FIGHTERS FOR SOLDIERS.

    The TIE Fighter and its hallucinatory ramblings were starting to lose Keon. "But we have unending TIE Fighters. They have maybe one Jedi. Why are we losing then?"

    WHO'S LOSING?

    "Us. The Empire… or… Rim Authority.. E.." At the moment he couldn't quite remember where the 'E' part of his new faction's name went.

    NOT FROM MY PERSPECTIVE. WARS AREN'T WON BY SO-CALLED VICTORIES. THE ONLY THING THAT MATTERS IS THE TRAIL OF DEATHS CARVED INTO THE GALAXY'S HISTORY. WHEN YOUR NAME, NUMBER, PAST, AND SOUL ARE FORGOTTEN, THE DEATHS YOU'VE CAUSE WILL REMAIN. THE EMPIRE HAS ALREADY WON. THE REBELS CAN DECLARE AS MANY NEW REPUBLICS AS THEY WANT. THEY CAN'T PUT ALDERAAN BACK TOGETHER AGAIN.

    "Good talk." As harsh as it was, the cramped space and red glow of the TIE cockpit reminded him of a distant feeling. The womb, maybe, or some really good party from the past that he allowed to be eaten. It was as good a place as any to light up a stick. (With the hatch left open a crack to keep him from choking on the smoke, of course.) But now, something told her that it was about time to get out.

    As he lowered himself to the hangar floor, the others around were abuzz. Apparently something had happened on Coruscant, but then, things were always happening there now. They'd still be happening in ten hours when he woke up. Sleep was more important, Keon needed it to squeeze what functionality was left in him out.
     
    Fathers and Son
    Tycho Sal



    Corellian Dockworks

    ---
    ​
    Ignoring the sounds of objects crashing and shouting from outside the room, Tycho happily bounced his son up and down in his arms. For the Grand Moff of Oversector 2, the sight of the baby gurgling happy as he carried him back and forth across the room was a greater comfort than even the mightiest fleet of Star Destroyers. There was something about that fat little face, the wispy strands of blonde hair and the bright, purple eyes that comforted Tycho in a way that nothing else could ever compare to.

    "You don't care about any of this do you, my little prince?" Tycho cooed to Jagged. "I bet you don't even know what a Senate even is."

    Offering a gurgle as a reply, Jagged reached out to grasp at whatever was in reach, that whatever being a tiny fistful of beard that forced Tycho to keep his head close to the baby.

    "Well, seeing as you're so interested, I'll tell you: the Senate is a wicked, terrible, awful house filled with the worst kind of people that our Emperor lined up against the world and had shot," he explained. "Traitors the lot of them who led the Republic to its doom and forced him to the create the Empire to save the Galaxy from itself. It's very, very bad thing but I bet you're smart enough that you already knew that."

    Shifting his son in his arms, Tycho held him up higher so that he could stand up straight while Jagged continued trying to pull out his beard fistful of hair by fistful of hair. Tilting his head to the side, he rested against the baby, enjoying the moment of contact before sighing loudly.

    "And now they want to bring it back. Oh, they'll say they fixed it, that they managed to make it work, but even Palpatine - yes, that's right, the man you were named for - couldn't manage that. He dissolved it outright because he understand that you can't compromise with those types and allow democracy to wear away at the foundations of autocracy." Tycho stopped and looked at the door, noting silently that things had grown quiet outside. "Anybody who wants to bring that back, who thinks that they were smarter than the Emperor on that, has to either be a fool or a Rebel in wolf's clothing for sure."

    Still standing still in the middle of the room, he gently pried one chubby little fist from his beard and gave his son the warmest smile he could manage.

    "But don't you worry, so long as your father and I are here, I promise no wicked senators will ever manage to hurt you. We won't let them."

    "Ever."

    The words were growled as the door to the room slid back to reveal a dishevelled Asta holding a blaster and looking like he'd just gone six rounds with a gundark. Stepping inside, he carefully put the weapon away in the nursery's armoury - an wall safe painted over with adorable depictions of little cartoon stormtroopers chasing down equally cartoonish rebels - before stepping towards Tycho and Jagged. Letting out a long and angry breath, he forced himself to smile as well as he came up and hugged them both.

    "We're going to shoot every last one of those traitors and then we're going to jettison their corpses into the sun and then we'll make the suns go supernova just to make sure not even the teensiest little senator can ever dare to harm my perfect boy," Asta said in the most saccharine sweet voice possible. "You'd like that, wouldn't you, my little prince."

    Tycho leaned down and kissed the top of his husband's head. "Of course he will, he's got so much of you in him that you'll have to fight to keep him from doing it himself," he joked quietly. "Like a fat little Vader."

    "He's not fat, he's a baby."

    "And babies are fat and little."

    "And that's treason, isn't it Jagged?" Asta cooed. "We'll have to make sure to teach you how to use a blaster as soon as possible so you can punish it in the future."

    "Once we've stopped these would-be republicans," Tycho promised earnestly.

    "I know, so soon, like I said."

    "Soon."    ​
     
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    MINI: The Era of Warlords
  • Threadmarks
    • The Era of Warlords​

    The dust had barely settled over Imperial Center, as millions of bodies and wrecks of Imperial war machines were strewn across the capital of the Galactic Empire. Grand Moffs Manko Gaul and Val Dellian had deposed Grand Vizier Sate Pestage from power, the former leader fleeing to the northeastern ends of the galaxy at Ciutric. Less than a week after the galaxy-changing event did the Empire begin to buckle, as numerous members of the Imperial government and military begin to detach themselves from their new-found leaders of the Imperial Regency Council.

    The first to proclaim themselves one of these new Imperial Warlord States was from the south as Warlord of the Empire and Grand General Selhec Rougrer, based out of Eriadu made declarations across the HoloNet of the end of the Galactic Empire. The Warlord stated that the New Order had been severely tarnished in the subsequent attempts to usurp the legitimate government under the Grand Vizier, that both Imperial Regents who now rule over Imperial Center and those who follow them are both traitors and illegitimate successors to the late Emperor's throne. What was known as the 'Eriadu pocket', seeing their chances of breaking out and reconnecting with Imperial space highly unlikely sided with the Warlord, as notable figures such as Moff Helor Jaren, Admiral Sander Delvardus and High Admiral Niles Motti quickly organized a united command structure and the beginnings of an independent government body. An isolated, yet legitimate military threat had been born, backed by the radical Tarkinites of Eriadu and impressive shipyards of Sluis Van, the Seswenna Stellar Authority prepared to make its mark upon the galaxy.
    [Creation of Seswenna Stellar Authority]
    [+1 Bellator, +1 Praetor II, +8 ISD I, +4 ISD II, +6 Vic I, +14 Vic II, +6 Venator to Seswenna Stellar Authority]
    [-1 Bellator, -1 Praetor II, -8 ISD I, -4 ISD II, -6 Vic I, -14 Vic II, -6 Venator to Empire]


    Roundel of the Seswenna Stellar Authority​

    Not long after the Seswenna Stellar Authority's proclamation did news from Corellia reach the galaxy, as Grand Moff Tycho Sal, declaring his vehement disapproval of the restoration of the Imperial Senate made his move as well to no longer submit to the authority of Imperial Center. Corellia itself was immediately sent into total martial law, as the Grand Moff's Jaggalor Guard backed by loyal Imperial Stormtroopers and CoreSec forces quickly apprehended those loyal or deemed sympathetic to the new Imperial Regency Council or former Grand Vizier Sate Pestage. The Grand Moff then quickly dispatched missives to the immediate vicinity of Corellia, calling on them to rally to his banner. The systems of Duro, Nubia, Lettow, Rendili, Karvoss, Hemei, Shumogi, Danteel and Condular answered the call of the Grand Moff to form a new state centered around Corellia. The Imperial garrisons of these planets, most importantly the vessels in orbit, seeing the Grand Moff as a highly popular figure quickly organized into a new ad-hoc military hierarchy with the Grand Moff acting as a provisional Supreme Commander. A provisional government was also established during this time, with Grand Moff Sal at its head, proclaiming the True Empire, officially known as the Provisional Galactic Empire with aims to depose the Imperial Senate and Imperial Regency Council.
    [Creation of Galactic Empire (Corellia)]
    [+1 Assertor, +1 Secutor, +2 Tector, +6 ISD I, +4 ISD II, +3 Vic I, +9 Vic II, +2 Procursator to Empire (Corellia)]
    [-1 Assertor, -1 Secutor, -2 Tector, -6 ISD I, -4 ISD II, -3 Vic I, -9 Vic II, -2 Procursator to Empire]


    Roundel of the True Empire
    ​
    In the far north of the galaxy another Imperial Warlord State rose, as the powerful figures of Grand Moff Sett Varian and Grand Admiral Zzavian Slyce Baobab, already closely cooperating between themselves, activated what was known as the Bastion Protocols. These protocols were designed to preserve the Imperial government in the event of a catastrophic event within the core worlds, moving for example the Imperial Ruling Council to a system codenamed 'Bastion', ensuring the continuation of the New Order. Grand Admiral Baobab through a galaxy-wide declaration proclaimed the creation of the Northwestern Loyalist Triumvirate, although the third member of this power dynamic was unknown to all but the other two which encompassed it. Seeing the usurping of Grand Vizier Sate Pestage and complete chaos of the core worlds decided alongside Grand Moff Varian to make this decision. Using the powerful Scourge Squadron under Grand Moff Varian, backed by the Grand Admiral's Executor-class Star Dreadnought Ideogram did a large swath of the northern regions of Oversector Outer submit without conflict, as twenty-three systems no longer answered to Imperial Center. The Triumvirate immediately became not only a legitimate military threat due to the presence of an Executor-class and Scourge Squadron, but now direct control over the vital economic banking world of Muunilinist, which held the Galactic Credit afloat almost on its own.
    [Creation of Northwestern Loyalist Triumvirate]
    [+1 Executor, +1 Allegiance, +1 Interdictor, +2 ISD I, +25 ISD II, +4 Vic I, +7 Vic II, +2 Venator to Northwestern Loyalist Triumvirate]
    [-1 Executor, -1 Allegiance, -1 Interdictor, -2 ISD I, -25 ISD II, -4 Vic I, -7 Vic II, -2 Venator to Empire]


    Roundel of the Northwestern Loyalist Triumvirate​

    To the eastern reaches of Imperial space what remained of the Empire's direct control centered around the Imperial Fortress World of Thanos, commanded by Grand Admiral Zamia Daño, a noted and well-respected tactician amongst his peers. The Grand Admiral had immense difficulty in sustaining the region for the Empire, as both the Alliance and Rim Emergency Authority closed upon him and his forces like a vise from three directions. Only through sheer will and talent did Grand Admiral Daño maintain what forces he had, slightly bolstered by those who fled from both Alliance and Rim Emergency Authority offensives. Seeing no possibility of reinforcement from the core, and the deteriorating situation before him with little option, Grand Admiral Daño declared his own Imperial Warlord State known as the Greater Maldrood from Thanos. Although small and lacking any major shipyard production facilities, the new capital of the Greater Maldrood was by far the most fortified in the region, requiring an extensive force to break the orbital defenses alone, not including the Grand Admiral's fleet and his own use of tactics.
    [Creation of Greater Maldrood]
    [-1 Secutor, -3 ISD I, -3 Vic I to Empire]


    Roundel of the Greater Maldrood​

    Finally, the silence of the deep core was no more, as Grand Moff Ronntal Valrin, who cut all forms of communication and travel from the deep core immediately after Grand Admiral Maddox's insurrection five months prior made a proclamation to Imperial Center from Empress Teta. The Empire and tenants of the New Order had been shattered by the fools and traitors who reside within it. Clear was the writing on the wall in his eyes that the Empire would fall, his position within the deep core the perfect place to preserve what could be before either the Alliance or Imperial Warlords would wash away the work and legacy of Emperor Palpatine. The powerful Shadow Squadron led by the Executor-class Star Dreadnought Eclipse, once used to personally escort the Emperor now protected the deep core from potential incursion, alongside a massive quantity of Star Destroyers which garrisoned the systems within it. Of all the Imperial Warlord States to rise, Valrin's was by far the most powerful and threatening to the existence of the Imperial Regency Council both in terms of military strength and proximity to Imperial Center. This new and extremely potent Imperial Warlord faction became known as the Imperial Bastion.
    [Creation of Imperial Bastion]
    [-1 Executor, -2 Tector, -28 ISD I, -25 ISD II, -43 Vic II to Empire]


    Grand Moff Ronntal Valrin, Leader of the Imperial Bastion
    ​
    These individuals and groups would define a new chapter in the Empire's chaotic history since the Battle of Endor. The Era of the Imperial Warlords, and perhaps the Imperial Civil War had begun.


    Map of the Galaxy Soon After the Beginning of the Imperial Warlord Era

    Galactic Empire
    Imperial Regents Manko Gaul (@Noco) / Val Dellian (@mcclay)
    Government
    Government Type: Imperial Regency (Senate Restored)
    Capital: Imperial Center (Coruscant)
    Systems: 237
    Internal stability: 3
    Fleet
    Executor SSDs: 4 [+1 in 1 turn]
    Assertor SSDs: 0
    Bellators: 4
    Praetor IIs: 1
    Secutors: 5
    Allegiances: 5 [+1 in 1 turn]
    Interdictor SDs: 10 [+2 in 3 turns]
    Tectors: 19
    Imperial Is: 166
    Imperial IIs: 54 [+1 in 1 turn] [+21 in 2 turns]
    Procursators: 24
    Victory Is: 37
    Victory IIs: 270 (35 CC) [+15 in 1 turn]
    Venators: 5

    Seswenna Stellar Authority
    Warlord of the Empire/Grand General Selhec Rougrer (@Revan4221X)
    Government
    Government Type: Autocratic Fiefdom
    Capital: Eriadu
    Systems: 14
    Internal Stability: 4
    Fleet
    Executor SSDs: 0
    Assertor SSDs: 0
    Bellators: 1
    Praetor IIs: 1
    Secutors: 0
    Allegiances: 0
    Interdictor SDs: 0
    Tectors: 0
    Imperial Is: 8
    Imperial IIs: 4 [+3 in 2 turns]
    Procursators: 0
    Victory Is: 6
    Victory IIs: 14 [+1 in 1 turn]
    Venators: 6

    Provisional Galactic Empire (Corellia)
    Grand Moff Tycho Sal (@Sidheach)
    Government
    Government Type: Autocratic Fiefdom
    Capital: Corellia
    Systems: 9
    Internal Stability: 4
    Fleet
    Executor SSDs: 0 [+1 in 2 turns]
    Assertor SSDs: 1
    Bellators: 0
    Praetor IIs: 0
    Secutors: 1
    Allegiances: 0 [+1 in 1 turn]
    Interdictor SDs: 0
    Tectors: 2
    Imperial Is: 6
    Imperial IIs: 4 [+3 in 2 turns]
    Procursators: 2
    Victory Is: 3
    Victory IIs: 9 [+2 in 1 turn]
    Venators: 0

    Northwestern Loyalist Triumvirate
    Grand Admiral Zzavian Slyce Baobab (@JuliusNepos) / Grand Moff Sett Varian / ???
    Government
    Government Type: Imperial Triumvirate
    Capital: Sartinaynian (Bastion)
    Systems: 23
    Internal Stability: 4
    Fleet
    Executor SSDs: 1
    Assertor SSDs: 0
    Bellators: 0 [+1 in 2 turns]
    Praetor IIs: 0
    Secutors: 0
    Allegiances: 1
    Interdictor SDs: 1
    Tectors: 0
    Imperial Is: 2
    Imperial IIs: 25
    Procursators: 0
    Victory Is: 4
    Victory IIs: 7 [+1 in 1 turn]
    Venators: 2
     
    Last edited:
  • Threadmarks
    • The Empire-in-Exile
    Starting Again



    ---
    ​
    With the Empire-in-Exile, also called the True Empire, the Corellian Empire, and the Provisional Government, having survived its first week of existence, Grand Moff Tycho Sal has gone to work preparing for its next steps. Surrounding himself with the best talent available to him, he has convened the new Interim Imperial Ruling Council on Corellia and begun the process of rebuilding the Imperial Government. Drawn from the preeminent figures in the Imperial hierarchy, it is a far cry from the institution that once served Palpatine owing, if nothing else, to the average age of its membership being thirty seven.

    To begin with, the Interim Imperial Ruling Council has ordered the reconstituting of the Imperial Armed Forces. Admirals Jaeffis and Grene of the Imperial Navy as well as General Darik of the Imperial Army and Colonel Brenko of the Stormtooper Corps have been instructed to head up the new Imperial High Command and oversee the process. This has, in the immediate term, primarily involved plugging in gaps in the hierarchy, unravelling the tangled mess that is Imperial logistics, and coming up with proposals to the Interim Council on how to improve cooperation and coordination between the branches.

    Observing that they had remained loyal despite the circumstances, the Moffs of the Empire-in-Exile have been rewarded for their faith. Moff Val Syko, who ruled over Nubia, would be called to Corellia to sit directly on the Interim Imperial Ruling Council - with Thrackan Sal-Solo being appointed as his successor on Nubia - and to organise their reward personally. The Ministry of Imperial Unity has been formed specifically to properly coordinate and manage the Moffs, ensure that their complaints are actually heard by someone, and provide something more than mere whim and corruption when it comes to the appointment and management of the Moffs. Although the Ministry is, as of the moment, mostly just responsible for hearing the flood of complaints, requests for assistance, and so on now flooding Corellia, it is hoped that in the future that it will be the foundation of a more efficient Moffdom.

    Obviously possessed of an intense dislike for the Imperial Security Bureau, the Grand Moff has directed the Interim Imperial Ruling Council to keep the question of intelligence a simple one. Rather than reconstitute the many competing branches entirely, the Interim Council has instead resolved to simplify it dramatically: the Imperial Security Organisation would be formed to handle internal affairs within the Empire-in-Exile and would largely take the place of the ISB and COMPNOR on the matter. Replacing Imperial Intelligence would be the Imperial Secret Service and would largely be a mere rebranching of Imperial Intelligence with its directive being focused exclusively on external threats. In terms of leadership, Myn Dara would be named Director of the ISO, a promotion from their original place in CorSec, while Isar Horn would be made Director of the ISS, an elevation from their former position as the head of Imperial Intelligence's operations on Duro.

    Finally the Interim Imperial Ruling Council would formerly resolve to settle the matter of the Imperial Succession once and for all. Noting that no changes could be made permanent without an Emperor to approve them, the Interim Council has ruled that a new Emperor will be chosen within the following two months from "amongst all worthy candidates in the Empire." This, however, is generally seen as a mere formality with Grand Moff Tycho Sal being the only candidate to put his name forward. Especially as he is already the de facto leader of the Empire-in-Exile, though he still maintains he is a mere Grand Moff pending a promotion or ascension, his rise to the Imperial Throne is considered a done deal provided Corellia is not overrun before it happens.    ​
     
    ​
    The Rim Salvation Committee and the Rim War Work Program

    As war spreads across the Galaxy, civilian suffering grows exponentially. Caught between cruel, sadistic and ruthless criminals, traitors and usurpers, the plight of the common sentient goes unheard and unaided in most of the Galaxy. But not in the Rim Emergency Authority!

    Moved by a deep desire to support the battered peoples of the Galaxy, as is his duty as the Supreme Protector and Herald of Salvation, Turent Pho has created through decree the Rim Salvation Committee.

    A nominally independent organization, the Committee is an umbrella group that seeks to organize and administer disparate public and private relief and support initiatives. From private charity groups to COMSNOR official refugee relief programs, the RSC mission is to direct all these groups and their resources in an unified and controlled manner. Ensuring that the help they provide goes to the people that need it in the fastest and most efficient manner possible.

    In these troubled times, wastage and corruption are as big of a threat as marauding pirates and prowling Rebels

    The Committee is chaired by Lady Azd Nurson, cousin to Moff Alber of Lantillies, the Committee board also counts with representatives from CONSNOR and prominent civilian leaders. Including several non-human community leaders who have been working with the Supreme Protector on an unofficial advisory role.

    Concurrent with the RSC, the Supreme Protector also saw fit to decree the creation of a government organ intended to oversee the economic aspects of the war effort. Just like the RSC is meant to organize and direct succor for the civilian population, the Rim War Work Program is meant to ensure the ongoing efforts to mobilize the war economy continue as smoothly as possible. With Imperialized companies facing the least amount of hurdles in their transition process and the private sector and regional power brokers mollified or crushed and ready to act in whatever way the war effort demands.
    Production must increase, alternative assembly lines created to plug lost sources, the credit lines must be secured, raw materials must be extracted, supply lines restored and alternatives prepared. Stockpiles established and protected and professionals of all sorts and stripes hired, trained and maintained. And so, so much more.

    In a move designed to shore up the strength of the war effort and provide further support for the embattled civilian refugee populations, the RSC and the RWWP will be expected to work closely together, the former acting as a well spring of labor power (both skilled and unskilled) for the latter. Thus helping cover any worker shortages while giving the needy masses an opportunity for gainful, honorable and patriotic employment

    Modern war on a Galactic scale is a complex affair filled with minute details and moving parts. No single person is truly qualified to undertake this assignment by themselves. But a particularly skilled brain at the top will surely do wonders for the whole organization. And so, to lead this colossal undertaking, a certain Jur Bakri. Former deputy director of the Lantillies shipyards, was handpicked for the role.


    ​
    FROM THE OFFICE OF SUPREME PROTECTOR TURENT PHO​
    TO GRAND ADMIRAL ZAMIA DAÑO OF GREATER MALDROOD @Julius ​
    VOIDBLACK LEVEL ENCRYPTION​
    Dark Greetings, Grand Admiral

    The Galaxy crumbles around us, so I shall dispense with the pleasantries beyond this point.

    We need not be enemies. Whatever enmity we may have with each other on a personal and ideological level pales before the hatred we rightfully hold for the Rebels. They would be the only winners if we were ever to face each other in the field of battle.

    So I give you these two options:

    1. Greater Maldrood joins the Rim Emergency Authority. Whatever remnants of COMPNOR remain in your territory would be absorbed into COMSNOR. The same goes for all other Imperial institutions. You would maintain your rank and fleet, fighting under my banner and being reinforced by my shipyards and factories.
    2. Greater Maldrood works with the Rim Emergency Authority. You would maintain your independence and rule your fiefdom as you see fit. Trade links would be established between us, whenever applicable. We would exchange intelligence about Rebel movements and if the situation calls for it, coordinate our actions to meet their advances. An effort could be arranged to supply Greater Maldrood with some war material to support your efforts against the Rebels as long as we are working together.
    You could also refuse and the REA will leave you alone. Biased as I may be, I think this is a very good offer.

    You could even refuse and attack me. But frankly, Grand Admiral, I am sure you are more than smart enough to realize any hostilities between us would be highly ill advised.

    HAIL PALPATINE!
     
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    Date: Sometime before the ascendancy of Regents Gual and Dellian

    Snapping back the locking lever for the pistol's magazine, Grand Moff Tandi Maxcetus raised the slug thrower. Standing in one of Aggregators shooting ranges, she let out a slow breath and squeezed the trigger. The first bullet lanced out through the holographic target on the other end, the flash reflecting off the steel gray walls. Pulling the trigger again at steady intervals, the concussive booms reverberated through the room before stopping with a soft metallic click. Lowering her arm, she let out a long breath. She needed this. A brief 15-minute window to focus on a simple target and fire a little antique she had picked up years ago. It was steadying.

    Setting the pistol down, she stepped back to let one of her aides hustle forward and retrieve the weapon. As he snapped closed the small carrying case, she began walking back to her main office. Turning through the hallways of her flagship, her mind turned to organizing her thoughts. Get a memorial to Osrin established. Move on to assessing current defense reports. Meet with the Head of Sentient Relations. Exercise for 15 minutes. Speak with the tailor regarding baby clothes for Grand Moff Tycho Sal. Speak with Orikin Tet. Draft memorandums to the Army. Go over mobilization plans.

    With a lurching feeling in her gut, the time requirements passed into tomorrow. Orikin could wait a day, and Osrins Memorial could be more free-form. That would free up enough time to get 4 hours of sleep, and the rest could be made up with tomorrow's dose of stim. Simple.
    Returning to her thoughts, she discarded the idea of eating a meal with someone. She did not have the time or a good candidate in mind. No one aboard the vessel had earned the attention of a Grand Moff. She would eat her food in her office.

    Arriving at her office, she saluted the two Death Troopers standing guard and passed through the doorway as it closed behind her. Who would she even want to have a meal with? Osrin would have been a formality, a necessity to compare days and ensure synchronization of stories. Solaris was simply abrasive. None of the officers or aides aboard the vessel were particularly interesting or inside her personal circle.

    Who was in her personal circle now? Jallia was somewhere on Coruscant and they hadn't talked personally in some years. Mickta was dead, killed by a Rebel cell. None of her court from decades ago were in contact, and a few were dead. Some she had officially stated she had not been in confidence with after their activities came to light. That left no one it seemed. Perhaps Viktor Sal would pass muster.

    No matter. They had all served their purposes.

    Her desk held the nameplate of a Grand Moff. Even as the Empire struggled with these new threats, it was still secure. Two coup attempts had been beaten back by the Grand Vizier, stability was slowly returning. The Empire would husband its strength and all would return to how it was supposed to be shortly.


    Date: Sometime after the ascendancy of Regents Gual and Dellian
    Watching her bridge crew go about their functions as they orbited Fondor, Grand Moff Tandi Maxcetus stood at the center of the Agrreegator's command bridge.

    Warlords. Traitors. Betrayers. Faithless dogs. The Empire was stability, it was strength! And now they tore at its body for gains that would be undone before their works amounted to more than a stain on the annuals of history. Oversector Twenty now stood as a bulwark against the Rebellion. Isolation increasing by the day, the sector would stand. Those disloyal to the Empire would be punished.

    Stepping towards the observation windows, Tand Maxcetus looked out at the stars. She wondered which would raise a banner claiming rights they had not earned, not even deserved. It did not matter at this point. Her decisions and her loyalties had been made clear years ago. Her home was the Empire and she would defend it to the last.
     

    TRANSMISSIONS FROM THE OFFICE OF IMPERIAL REGENT GAUL    ​



    ON THE ACCOLADES OF KRAVIC VONSOL | @Frostbyght

    "Kravic Vonsol is a name well-regarded in the Imperial Army, perhaps unknown to the common man, but stuck deep into the minds of those receiving his fury. When the last remnants of the Confederacy remained, a thorn in the side of our early Empire, it was men like Vonsol who cracked apart their holdouts like a wuli nut shell. Their duty was done without fanfare nor complaint, with all due deadliness as befits our vaunted military.

    But in my time coordinating with Surface Marshal Vonsol, in our joint restoration of peace along the Hydian Way, and in his operations in the galactic south, he has revealed himself a supremely competent commander. Across numerous worlds, sectors, and swathes of space, the men of the Imperial Army hold because Vonsol bids them to hold. He has instilled in those brave defenders a steadfast commitment to our beloved Empire, one which will see see about our final victory against the rebels and secessionists of our time. Our struggle is not counted in days, but rather in the meters of land secured and defended, the meters marched and covered, the meters restored and bled for by men like Kravic Vonsol.

    His service to our Empire and his most appreciated contributions to the current campaigns along the Hydian and Corellian trade routes merits recognition and promotion to the highest decree. It is with honor that I confer unto Kravic Vonsol the rank of Grand General. In him I extend my fullest confidence, that under his command, the south shall hold firm."

    TO THE OFFICE OF GRAND GENERAL KRAVIC VONSOL

    "Grand General,

    My congratulations on your newest position - our Imperial Regency Council and myself in particular hold great confidence in your capabilities. As an expansion of your authority, we confer unto you jurisdiction over all relevant Army assets throughout the galactic south as you see fit to combat this alliance of rebels and criminal states. We trust you will remain in close connection with Imperial High Command, but understand that many expectations and allowances are to be given to you based on competence.

    I trust I am clear that your continued service will be watched and supported fully. It is my hope that soon we may host you on Imperial Center with all due commendations, when peace is at last enforced upon the galaxy."

    His Serene Highness,
    IMPERIAL REGENT MANKO GAUL    ​



    TO THE OFFICE OF CRUEYA VANDRON | @Julius

    "Lord Vandron,

    There is much to be said of your good works within our Empire, and it is my hope that the passing of our Emperor and the ensuing chaos has not dampened your zeal for civil service. While we have yet to meet in person, your personage has been highly acclaimed by my peers among the bureaucracy, and there is little doubt that your noble forebears have done well to instill the principles we seek to restore within the New Order. More than ever, men of substance are needed.

    In that pursuit, I wish to extend an open invitation to my offices for a discussion on your continued role in shaping the New Order. With the restoration of the Imperial Senate, I shall move soon to build a select membership of the few truly worthy to hold office; in this, I would humbly seek your guidance as I review shortlists as received from our various Grand Moffs and other worthy references. Your keen eye might assist in weeding out those undesirable in the view of COMPNOR.

    Perhaps also we may discuss over a fine meal the possibility of yourself holding such a post within our government. A man of your birth and station would be best suited of all to hold the post of Senator, and as well a key symbol of the sorts of figures our Empire can expect to see in high power. We cannot allow the public to perceive our reformed Senate as anything akin to the bygone Republic, nor as the seditious one which our Emperor wisely shuttered. This Senate shall be the perfect vessel of our New Order."

    His Serene Highness,
    IMPERIAL REGENT MANKO GAUL    ​



    TO THE OFFICES OF THE IMPERIAL GRAND MOFFS | @Julius @Fission Battery @DanMan @FantasticMsFox

    "Your Excellencies,

    Much must be said of the necessity of your continued service to the Empire. The Imperial Regency Council understands well the immense responsibilities placed upon the shoulders of our galactic bureaucracy, most of all those trusted to hold the post of Grand Moff. Many of us have served side by side, coordinating our various Oversectors in times of blessed peace, and now of cruel warfare. I bear every intention on answering your plights with rapid relief and action, most especially as the wheels of our Imperial machine are now cleaned of constriction and sedition.

    In support of this new, restored government, you have undoubtedly heard of the restoration of the Imperial Senate. This body once gave men like us restriction, but I implore you not to fear. This Senate shall be one in line with the tenants of the New Order, and it will be the Senators who serve at the behest of the civil bureaucracy, and not the other way around as it was in the worst days of the Republic. We above all understand what must be done to keep peace and prosperity close at hand.

    For that reason, I request that your offices produce a short-list of suitable members from your Oversectors; our restored Senate shall be lean and leal, its membership select and reflective of the New Order's strictures. These proposed figures shall be thoroughly examined and confirmed by our Regency Council, affirming the supremacy of the mightiest class - us. Together, we can weather this conflagration of rebel terrorists and secessionist warlords. And when at last we have peace again, our Empire must have us to govern it."

    His Serene Highness,
    IMPERIAL REGENT MANKO GAUL    ​
     
    THE TOOLS OF POWER​

    By all accounts, the twenty fourth fleet sector fleet had acquitted itself admirably after Endor—if one looked at it from a certain point of view.

    The smash and grab operation on Cato Neimodia had made Admiral Jal Zeid and his captains rich, however rushed it had been, and coin won in that bloodletting had helped soothe the worries of the common soldiers. Close cooperation with Supreme Protector Pho, at the time largely unknown to even Zeid's captains, had given the twenty fourth Imperial fleet safe harbor at Lantillies. Among the first to split from Imperial Center, Zeid and his men collaborated closely with Pho in creating the Rim Emergency Authoritiy's claim to power, one of overreach and deception of the ISB at the highest levels, something seemingly proved to have the mildest of merit.

    The twenty fourth repaid the safe harbor granted to them by sailing out from Lantilies and burning a path through the Maldrood. Not against the rebellion, but those who still swore fealty to the Empire. Imperial fought Imperial—often to little avail to those who fought for Imperial Center, outmatched by the Colossus and her escorts in the void, and ground down by sheer overwhelming firepower planetside. With the relatively bloodless seizure of Metalorn. Of their conquests, only Salvara resisted with any seriousness, and was duly chastised. Some among the twenty fourth fleet even said aloud that it was better that they had resisted, to better root out those who opposed the salvation of the New Order. Preformative talk or not, the end was not in doubt.

    Yet while Zeid's captains were pleased with their performance, the High Admiral was more subdued. In the heady days after the Regency Coup he remarked to his aide that 'all they had done was brutalize demoralized garrisons and cow them into submission. This New Republic has taken advantage of our own actions—even now they advance the Lesser Lantillian Route. A confident, motivated force that scents blood into water thanks to the fighting on Imperial Center.'

    In the days after the Regency Coup the High Admiral focused his attention on the twenty fourth fleet. While touched by COMPSOR's propaganda efforts, Zeid made sure that the REA's message of salvation was firmly spread throughout his fleet as he reorganized it. While not a radical reorganization like his 'retirement' of intelligence agents over Cato Neimodia, Zeid worked to temper his command into a honed knife. For it was already an instrument of his will. Doing away with the Imperial holdover designation of the twenty fourth sector fleet, Jal Zeid designated his fleet as Dark Crown Command, the spear and shield for the Rim Emergency Authority, and its ambitions in the maldrood.

    • Vice Admiral Iza Yare: A daughter of a Couriscanti naval family that went all the way back to the years before the Russan Reformation, Iza is Jal Zeid's second. A proud, professional woman, her family had fallen out of favor with the Emperor early on in the Empire, and had been thus derided. It was only through old family contacts that still persisted and partly her own merit that saw her assigned to the twenty fourth fleet as a captain. Iza and Zeid met during the Western Reaches campaign, as they mopped up Separatists holdouts, and had struck up an easy rapport since then. With her family dead or disgraced, Iza sees the REA and Zeid as her best chance to make something of herself, and maintain her own status. Stationed aboard the Assertor-Class Colossus.

    • Captain Yossel: A proud son of Corellia and equally proud opportunist, Yossel's family was hit hard by corporate strangleholds over trading and was sent spiraling into poverty into a result. After some limited time in local gangs, Yossel pulled himself up by joining the Republic Navy in the last year of the Clone Wars. He served well in a backline position, and spent much of his career in the Outer Rim patrolling major hyperlanes before his promotion to captain and transfer to the twenty fourth fleet. Yoessel cares less about matters of ideology and more about his own comfort and glory. He is often spotted spouting the old Corellian adage 'not caring about the odd's,' to some of his peer's irritation. Captains the ISD-II, Stalwart.

    • Captain Mazewell: While not the most gifted orator, Mazewell has risen to his position through a mix of skilled logistical work, political connections, and a genuine belief in the New Order. He has taken COMPSOR's preaching deeply to heart, and even though he is from Coruscant himself, has taken to sneering at the 'Swamp of Coruscant.' A man in love with his food, Mazewell is of a respectable girth, though he embraces this fact. Captains the ISD-II, Bulwark.

    • Colonel Hak Idor: A chandrillian taken from the gutter and put in the Imperial Army, there Idor served for several years as a scout trooper, even serving a brief stint as a storm commando. Quiet, dead eyed Idor is either at Zeid's side, or scuttling about the fleet doing the High Admiral's bidding. While Iza Yare is Jal Zeid's second, none can deny that Idor is his right hand man. Reserved, dutiful, and seemingly quite loyal to Zeid. It is uncertain what, exactly, the elder chandrillian has done to be deserving of this, or if it is simply ingrained habit within Idor to follow his superiors orders. Whatever the case, he is known as Zeids shadow. Stationed aboard the Assertor-class, Colossus.


    The Colossus, jewel of a Dark Crown.​
     
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    The Empire-in-Exile
    The Movers and Shakers



    From Left to Right
    Admiral Rix Jaeffis, Baroness Val Syko, Moff Maxir Dolphe, and Director Isar Horn

    ---
    ​
    Admiral Rix Jaeffis:

    Born on Anaxes, Rix Jaeffis is considered to be one of the staunchest supporters of Grand Moff Tycho Sal by sheer dint of how deeply entwined the two have been since the Battle of Yavin. Called in to command the SSD Glorious Triumph by the Grand Moff shortly after his ascension - the decision itself being made because of a shared connection: Tycho's roommate in college had married Jaeffis' younger sister which had meant they were acquainted with each other for over a decade before Yavin - Jaeffis has served as the strong right hand of the Grand Moff. Although far from the most exceptional officer, Jaeffis being more of the dependable variety of Imperial rather than the deranged genius many seemed to be, he has proven more than adequate in his role as Tycho's Admiral of choice. Rebels were dealt with within Oversector 2 promptly and pirates, for the most part, were obliged to keep their heads down while Jaeffis oversaw security. In turn, Tycho proved an enthusiastic patron, ensuring that Jaeffis' ships were well equipped and supplied, and would regularly promote officers based purely off of Jaeffis' recommendations.

    Since the Declaration of Rebellion and the establishment of the Empire-in-Exile, Jaeffis' fortunes have only risen as he, along with Admiral Grena Grene, has been put in charge of the reformed Imperial Navy. Jaeffis' loyalty as well as his virtues as a known quantity to Tycho have ensured that so long as the Empire-in-Exile survives, that he will be at the centre of it.

    Baroness Val Syko:

    Born on Dantooine, Val Syko is not Tycho Sal's favourite person in the Galaxy. Considered by the Grand Moff to be too exuberant by far and uncomfortably heterosexual, the former Moff of Nubia is nevertheless in possession of a talent that is all too valuable to the leader of a Warlord State: people skills. Where other Moffs preferred to simply shoot their problems or freeze them in carbonite, Syko had an alarming tendency to "reason" her problems out or, even worse, "talk things through." While such talents would prove alarming at the best of times, the establishment of the Ministry of Imperial Unity would suddenly make those skills remarkably useful. With their now being a need to coordinate the Moffs, allay their concerns, and make them feel seen and heard, the talents of someone like Syko have proven far too useful to ignore.

    Proving her with the title of Baroness - putting her on par with the likes of Soontir Fel - Tycho would give her the Ministry of Imperial Unity and a mandate to make it work. Additionally elevated to the Interim Imperial Ruling Council, she has subsequently become a frankly obnoxious voice of reason, the type capable of seeing things through a diplomatic lens and coming up with non-violent solutions.

    Moff Maxir Dolphe:

    Born on Empress Teta, Maxir Dolphe is currently serving as the Moff of Duros and is one of the most influential figures on the Interim Imperial Ruling Council to date. While his territory is far from the most important, both due to the fact that the CEC Shipyards far outstrip the ones over Duros and because his territory has far more aliens than humans - what Dolphe lacks in power, he makes up for in connections. Typically dismissed as a debauched fool who'd prefer to party rather than do his job, the Moff has, over the years, amassed a steady pile of blackmail material on just about anybody he thinks he might need a favour from one day. As a consequence, despite the fact that Dolphe is increasingly demonstrating far more ambition than originally expected, he has been added to the Ruling Council and given a leading role in the Empire-in-Exile from whence he continues to amass power for himself.

    Director Isar Horn:

    Born on Corellia, Isar Horn is best described as someone who based all of his career choices off of rewatches Jado Bibblo: Galactic Man of Mystery. Going into Imperial Intelligence right out of school, he swiftly amassed a reputation for shooting first and asking questions later, sleeping with anything with a pulse and the capacity for consent, and somehow not dying in spite of all of this. After a minor mishap involving several of his coworkers - according to rumour, one of them interpreted their comments on how much they disliked working on Mondays as treason and promptly executed all of them - Horn would be put in charge of Imperial Intelligence's operations on Corellia, a job which he did well enough to not get fired but not so well that anybody was surprised at how much of the budget went towards gambling, spirits, and escorts.

    When the Empire-in-Exile was declared though, Horn would sense a chance for something new and would make the jump from Imperial Intelligence to the newly formed Imperial Secret Service. Named the new Director of the ISS, Horn would make an excess of promises about his competence - promises that weren't believed but given the circumstances, a blind eye was turned due to a lack of alternatives - and swear to turn the ISS into the coolest intelligence agency in the Galaxy. This pledge, however, has not inspired confidence in others as much as Horn may have expected.    ​
     
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    A Speech on Current Events
    ​
    Fellow soldiers of the Tolondan Union, over the last few days a seismic shift has occurred in galactic politics. As most of you already know, the Imperial Regent Sate Pestage has been overthrown in a military coup by Grand Moffs Delian and Gaul, who have declared the restoration of the Imperial Senate. In response, many of their former subordinates have declared themselves in rebellion against the coupists, staking their claim to the Imperial banner. I do not need to cover this process of events in excessive detail, the HoloNet has already done this quite well.

    Instead, I want to talk about the meaning of these events, what they mean for the Empire, for the New Order, and for the Tolondan Union.

    The coup that took place on Imperial Center has one goal and one goal only, to perpetuate the power and wealth of the Core nobility, to ensure that only those lucky enough to be born a nobleman can aspire to anything more than servitude. They have restored the senate not out of love for the Republic but to formalize and codify the Core nobles as the central political authority, to ensure that the aristocracy makes policy and divides up the spoils even after Delian and Gaul pass on. These gentlemen don't consider anyone outside their narrow social bubble to be human, let alone worth consideration. They are spoiled, high on shipments of spice and pleasured by entire palaces of slaves, gorging themselves on the finest food amongst rooms covered in ostentatious opulence, and yet they dare to criticize those of us who do the work that keeps their whole world spinning. They speak of "colonization" of the Rim as if humans did not already live there because to them we are not human! We who have fought and died and bled for the Empire, for the New Order, will be crushed under the boot of grasping, scheming Core nobles if the "Regents" have their way.

    The seizure of power by such decadent and vile blue bloods, those who know nothing of the obligations that come with rank and station, has created numerous new claimants for the banner of the New Order.

    First of these is the Ciutric Hegemony, the personal fiefdom of the cowardly and incompetent Pestage, former "Regent" of the Empire. All I have to say about him is that I hope he at least dies with honor instead of trying to flee to the Rebels.

    Second, we have Tycho Sal's "True Empire" or "Empire in Exile". Of course, like any Corellian, Sal thinks that merely being Corellian makes something better, and that Corellia is the only planet that should rule the galaxy, so his polity might be better called the "Empire of Corellian Hubris." Sal accuses Grand Moff Delian of all people of trying to restore democracy, a laughable notion, and raises the banner of Corellian autocracy. Between angry Corellians who support the Rebels and the incandescent rage currently emanating from Imperial Center, he is unlikely to last long without allies.

    Third, there is the Seswenna Stellar Authority, comprised of the cut off remnants of the oversector, surrounded on all sides by Rebels. I wish them the best of luck and that they kill as many rebels as possible. Otherwise they are irrelevant.

    Fourth, there exists the so-called Imperial Bastion, which seeks to sit out the war and preserve what they can of the New Order, predicting certain defeat. At the moment these defeatists have little relevancy, but possess large numbers of ships and should not be underestimated.

    Fifth, the Greater Maldrood has been established, like the Seswenna Stellar Authority, by an imperial commander cut off from all reinforcements and disenchanted with the coups of Imperial center. Time will tell if they are absorbed into the larger Rim Authority, are devoured by the hungry Hutts or rebels, or become a player in their own right.

    Finally, the Northwestern Loyalist Triumvirate has established itself as a bastion of stability and sanity, led by a respected and forward thinking officer. Truly, of the new claimants to Imperial center, they stand out in their virtue. I am hopeful that one day I can work alongside their officers as we retake Coruscant for the New Order.

    As for us, we of the Tolondan Union will keep fighting the good fight, combating the galaxy's criminal element and restoring stability and prosperity to this long forgotten region of space. We fight for you, not for self aggrandizement or petty gain, and soon Kursk and I shall announce our views, aims, and intentions to the galaxy.

    Long Live the New Order, and Long Live the Tolondan Union!
     
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    From the desk of Admiral Jonus Nil Vaan

    [SENT]     To the Imperial Regents, @Noco @mcclay

    I salute your boldness and initiative in removing the corrupt, incompetent, and cowardly leadership of the former Grand Vizier. In this uncertain age, actions such as yours guide the way forward.

    With this final upheaval, I believe that the Empire may finally be free of the ineffectiveness that has plagued it for so long.

    It is my hope that together we can swiftly bring this Rebellion to a victorious conclusion. For this reason, I have attached several files detailing my plans for a new, dramatic offensive, code named OPERATION CONTISPEX.

    As you no doubt see, it would entail simply moving our existing forces to target...

    [DELETED] To the Grand Vizier,

    I salute your bravery and steadfastness in defeating the corrupt, self-serving, and traitorous authors of this attempted coup. In this uncertain age, actions such as yours guide the way forward.

    With this final test, I believe that the Empire may finally be free of the infighting that has plagued it for so long.

    It is my hope that together we can swiftly bring this Rebellion to a victorious conclusion. For this reason, I have attached several files detailing my plans for a new, dramatic offensive, code named OPERATION AXXILA.

    As you no doubt see, it would entail simply moving our existing forces to target...
     
    Rothana, Tolonda Union
    4 ABY    ​

    "...What the kriff is going on there?" High Moff Kursk can't help but mutter as he looks over the report.

    Intelligence beyond public and general intercepted reports wasn't all too common, but that was enough to get a rough picture of what had happened this time.

    A successful coup on Coruscant, that being the third coup in the past half year or so. An Executor SSD of all things breaching out from the city planet carrying the Grand Vizer himself, with him going on to establish his own small territory. And then the reports he was receiving of other breakaway states too. Corellia and some of what remained of the Imperial-held South was most notable.

    And yet, he was having a hard time focusing on that.

    His son. Davik Kursk, had been in the thick of the fighting, both in the Imperial Offensive against the Dorsin pocket and in the recent coup. He didn't have access to casualty reports but... his ship was one of the ones destroyed.

    He... he could be dead. Maybe not through fault of his own, fortunately not, but dead nonetheless. And there was no way to know for sure, not unless Davik suddenly re-appeared.

    He needed to keep things together. Alcohol was tempting, but he had too many duties. And he had to be there for his wife and surviving son too. For his family, and for his nation. Especially in times like this.

    The danger had gotten even worse after all, due to all of this, but also opportunity. Especially given the blows the Empire had suffered.

    "Hmm, looks like it may be time to release it. After some edits of course." He mutters as he sits up, ignoring the slight shaking as he began typing on his computer.

    Days later it would be finished. Public hypernet broadcasts and hijacked channels were use once again, spreading the message of the Tolonda Union to all of nearby neutral, Imperial, and even New Republic space.



    The Sanctity of Order
    An Official Manifesto published by the Tolonda Union

    ​
    For every sentient in the Galaxy, sooner or later a time comes when they face the harsh truth. That reality is harsh, chaotic, and unpredictable. That it can take just as easily as it gives, more often the former then the later. That it can lead to ruin, to safety being violated and your course of life being forever changed. When exposed to such without security, without protections, stability is rarely safe.

    That is why the ideals of the New Order were born. Once it was realized that the Galactic Republic of old would and could not provide that protection, the necessity became all too real that greater protections were needed.

    That frailty needed to be exchanged for strength.

    Chaos for Order.

    Uncertainty for decisiveness.

    This is what many realized and came to accept from the Clone Wars, why many would agree to support the ideology of the New Order and with it the first galactic nation to espouse it, the Galactic Empire. To trade some freedoms in exchange for the security and stability desired.

    And yet it came up short. The corruption of the Republic was greatly inherited, joined by even greater corruption. The security that was desired was often not the purpose, but only sometimes a byproduct of needless oppression and cruelty. The officers and officials supposed to protect and lead us laying back in luxury or bickering with one another, often uncaring for those beneath them. For many worlds and many peoples, the Galactic Empire became what was not a guardian, but an oppressor.

    That is why so many cling to the notions of the old Republic, to democracy different or similar to that of the failed state.

    That is why the Empire has shown itself to be ineffective, left bloated and floundering despite its supposed and real prowess and spread.

    That's why we're at where we are today, where Civil Wars rage across the known Galaxy and the Empire is fracturing from within. Why millions die not even to fight the foe that is the Neo-Republic Rebellion, but each other in petty squabbles. Why some have taken it upon themselves to leave, to better preach and enforce the core components of the New Order, and not the excess and misuses that it has been put under in the form of new states, new nations.

    Nations such as the Tolonda Union, founded when it was realized that sooner or later the Empire would abandon them, and when those that served it, the ISB, dared to try and manipulate what would become its leadership into attacking fellow Imperials in needless machinations. As has been seen elsewhere, in what is now the Rim Emergency Authority, and with their failed coup.

    Now separate from the rot of old, the Tolonda Union will strive to be what the New Order is meant to be. A nation where its leadership strives to maintain a firm yet appropriate grip, to provide the security and stability desired for all. A nation which strives to fight against corruption and anarchy, that seeks to maintain prosperity and good fortune. An ideal that others should follow in these trying times.

    After all, it is the duty of those of the New Order to uphold its core values in these trying times no matter where they reside or rule, to be bastions of security and stability within the current Galactic Maelstrom of anarchy and cruelty and to oppose those that dare to topple or pervert them.

    Long live the ideals of the New Order!
     
    A Party and a blast from the past​

    The Eristavi Manor had long been a staple in Lantillian high society. Expansive, beautiful, well located and luxurious. The estate had passed through a series of different hands through its millennia long history. Its previous owner was Grand Moff Grayingr. To the surprise of many, Turent Pho declined to take possession of the property. Instead the property was auctioned and the funds added to the war chest during those early, heady days of the REA

    Still, the Supreme Protector found himself in the palace. The current owner, Lady Azd Nurson, had decided to use the place to host a gala in honor of the Rim Salvation Committee. Really, it was more of an excuse for the rich bastards to drink and snort and smooze all over each other. In simpler, olden days (of literally a year ago), Turent Pho could be supplying drugs, escorts and assorted entertainment. But alas, such things were beneath his dignity as Savior of the Galaxy. At least for the moment.

    The Warlord stood amidst one of the groups of partygoers. Edin Klo, his trusty new assistant silently to his left and a pair of silent Death Troopers in the shadows beneath the large, red silken hanging curtains. Sprinkled among the staff and invitees, were also the occasional Protector and NOSEC officer in plain clothes. Just in case something went wrong.

    Pho was nodding along as a Devaronian he had just been introduced, whose name Klo better remember, was gushing about investment opportunities and the shake-ups in COMSNOR that would wash away the corruption and inefficiency and finally allow all non-Human followers of the New Order to give their all for the good of the Galaxy. Nuksi was by his side, laughing and enthusiastically nodding along as his meaty hands slapped the back of the green silk the horned alien wore.

    "Exactly, my friend!" Pho replied when the chattering nobody finally stopped to breathe. "The likes of Tarkin." And at that he did not bother hiding his sneer. "And now Delian, Septina and Gaul would have us stick to a warped, twisted vision of the New Order. That has done nothing but harm and weaken the Empire for the profit of a small clique of Core blue bloods."

    A wave of nods and agreeable noises and Pho continued.
    "What men like these so-called Regents and many others forget is that the New Order wasn't built solely by Human hands." Pho declared with all the confidence and swagger a Corellian scoundrel could muster. "Mas Amedda, Jar Jar Binks, Sly Moore. And many, many others shed their own sweat and blood to build the Empire. It is about time we recognized that reality."

    Klo shot him a quick glance but clapped alongside the rest.

    The Supreme Protector basked in the attention for a few more seconds but wisely disentangled himself from the aliens before any of them could start asking him how exactly he intended to put his words into practice. Weaving through several more groups to deliver empty platitudes and witty remarks with a flute in hand and his assistant trailing behind. No reason to really linger too long with any single group. Or delve too deep in the particulars and details of his great promises and ideas. This audience didn't need to know this information. When that information even existed. Frankly, they had come up with an impressive amount of half coherent bullshit in just five months. But there were still too many gaps. And too much they were on the spot. Pho would need to publish a new edition of the Blue Book someday soonish to account for all the things that were actually sticking at the wall. At least put some COMSNOR flunkies on the duty of making their ramblings sound coherent.

    It was all going rather swimmingly as far as these things went. The Supreme Protector was on the lookout for the hostess, for another round of strategic, politically motivated flirting when the impression of a half familiar face stopped him cold in his tracks. Now aware of a possible threat, Pho forgot all about rich, well connected widows and zeroed on his new target.

    Though let it be clear that the Supreme Protector did not stalk. He did not skulk in the shadows observing his prey. This was the heart of his power. His fortress. Everything and everyone here bowed to his will. So he strode proudly and openly to the alcove where the woman he had sighted was talking with one of Uyter's farming barons. A man Pho could only remember because he had gifted him some truly amazing steaks. Though apparently not amazing enough to actually register his name on the Supreme Protector's mind.

    The woman was short. Dark haired and dark skinned, wearing a nice and conservative ensemble. But not too nice. Easily outshined by the cream of Lantilles' high society. Yet, Pho was sure that was done on purpose.

    The magnate was the first to notice Pho, easy given that he was the one facing his approach. The ace was greeted with a raised glass and an earnest hail. And when the woman half turned to face him, his suspicions were confirmed.

    "My Lord! What a pleasant surprise."

    "None of that, friend." Pho smiled back, inserting himself and Klo into their little circle. "Why, I'm half convinced we should be making you a proper noble if you keep shipping our boys in blue all that delicious meat."

    "We all must do our duty." The man preened. "I'm just doing mine." And for a few moments the silence lingered as he basked in his own pride. "This is Zela Nern, she is with the Kamir Cartel-"

    "Yes, of course." Pho interrupted cheerfully. "I know Zela, she used to be my sister in law. When I saw her I just had to come and greet her." At that he turned to her. "Say, how's your sister these days? Has been a while since I heard of her."

    "Well, you do make a point of not calling." Zela's smile was as fake and sharp as his. "But if you want to know, six years ago she had a religious awakening. Abandoned all earthly possessions and joined the Church of the Dark Side. She's in Oversector 2 now, helping the needy refugees. I run the family business now"

    "Of course." Pho's smile was even wider now. "Zandi was always such a loving soul. Really, I always knew she had no place in the cutthroat world of-" He fixed Zela with a look. "Shipping. Is it still shipping that you Nern deal with, right?"

    "Yes. Though these days we have mostly relocated to Hutt space. Given the instability everywhere else."

    There was history here. A lot of snide remarks and things unsaid. Things that only really mattered to Turent Pho and Zela Nern. Who, being who they were, didn't really care that they were subjecting Edin Klo and Dagal Mozzare (the aforementioned magnate) to their dispute. The two who were now sharing the universal look of awkwardness and commiseration that came whenever anyone was too close when people were airing dirty laundry unrelated to them.

    "Well, I wish you luck, Zela." Pho replied, taking a sip from his flute before continuing as if the thought had just come to him. "You know-"

    "Oh look, it's Lady Nurson." Mozzare said a bit too loudly pointing to the crowd. "My apologies, but I have pressing issues to discuss with our hostess." And without waiting for an answer he withdrew as fast as etiquette allowed. Leaving Klo to stare forlornly at him as a Stormtrooper would at a Lambda Shuttle departing in a hurry and leaving him behind with a company of Wookies hot on his heels.

    Neither Pho nor Nern paid him any attention.

    "-As I was saying, my eldest, Kuna, is well established in Hutt Space. He has often helped me and some of my partners back before all of this, when we had affairs and deals with groups within Hutt Space."

    It was as if something had clicked in Zela's mind. Pho's false smile turned into a genuine smirk of triumph. "Purple skin, likes to dye his hair. Goes with his mother's name but looks like his dear old dad."

    "Of course." She exclaimed. Irritation finally starting to visibly overcome false politeness. "I know him. Though I didn't know you had married a Zeltron before my sister."

    "Oh, I never married her." Pho chuckled. "Well, ain't that a small Galaxy, huh? I will be sure to mention you next time I talk with my boy." Which could be anywhere between soon or months from now, depending on how the war went and whenever he got around to dabbling in his old side business.

    By this point, the Zandi Nern Pho married all those decades ago, would have had enough of his oh ever so subtle gloating and gone for his throat, situation be damned. But Zela was apparently far more level headed. Attacking Turent Pho would not save the Kamir Cartel from being pushed out by their rivals. Turent Pho had no direct involvement in that mess save for having fathered one of the warring parties. And occasionally financing them through the years with his own illegal dealings. And perhaps smuggling his boy some Imperial-grade gear once or twice back when he first heard just who he was fighting against during the years of plenty.

    Besides, he was sure he could take her down before she could even fully raise her arms. Not that either of them would find out.

    "It has been great seeing you again." Zela lied rather smoothly. "But I'm sure you are a busy man."

    "Yes, yes I am." Pho replied, still smirking at her. "I thank you for gracing our gala with your presence. Your support for the war refugees is deeply appreciated." And with that she left without further words.

    The Supreme Protector turned to his assistant, still riding the high of this petty little victory. "I need you to get a hold of Colonel Prall within the hour." As satisfying as this exercise was, he needed to know who had invited Zela Nern into this event and why he hadn't been informed beforehand. Then they would need to check if her tale about Zandi checked out and maybe arrange an accident for his former sister in law.

    It wasn't explicitly necessary yet. He had no proof she was acting or plotting against the REA. Hells, he didn't even know when or why she was in his little corner of space to start with. She knew he led the REA, surely he hadn't come here to ask for his help? But the fact she was here displeased him greatly, for no other reason than he hated every single Nern and wished the entire bloodline would be extinguished violently.

    He should give Kuna a call instead. Let him know where Zela was and let the boy handle his own fights. It would be good for his character and would leave him uninvolved in that particular mess.

    It would be grand just to draw his blaster and shoot her in the back right here and now. But he had long outgrown the boy that would actually consider that option seriously. The hatred burnt just as brightly as the moment Zandi gave up on him. But Turent Pho liked to think he had matured since then.
     
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    FROM: OFFICE OF GRAND MOFF TANDI MAXCETUS
    TO BE DISTRIBUTED ACROSS OVERSECTOR TWENTY​


    Fleet Admiral Osrin Rien'tal has made the ultimate sacrifice in the defense of the Empire. Fighting to protect Imperial Citizens across the Empire from the unique terror of the Rebel Alliance, he was killed by one terrorist known above all others.

    Luke Skywalker.

    This religiously motivated killer is one of the largest faces of the Rebellion. Worshipped as a god of brutish violence and twisted moralizing by deranged followers, this man has led his cultist mass into battle against the Empire resulting in the causeless murder of my husband. Overrun even as he struck down great sections of these traitorous hordes, Osrin Rien'tal is a hero of the Empire. In contrast to Osrin's character of loyalty, honor, and courage, Luke Skywalker is a pestilence on the face of the galaxy. Concinvincing the sons and daughters of true Imperial Patriots to forsake themselves for lies of eternal life, his butchery is more than base bloodshed. His torture of innocent human lives into madmen willing to die for his false cause is one of the many crimes he will be brought to justice for.

    But the Empire is a place of laws, honor, and justice. Even this monster, forsaking his humanity in the name of religion and bloodshed, may yet have the privilege of facing trial. Only time will tell if the coward chooses to salvage a scrap of honor or dies like the dog he has proven himself to be.

    It is my sincere hope that should he see the error of his ways and accept trial, he may face it at the newly established Osrin Rien'tal Imperial Security and Rehabilitation Center on Fondor.
     


    OFFICE OF LORD CRUEYA VANDRON​

    IMPERIAL REGENT MANKO GAUL (@Noco)

    Regent Gaul, my loyalties to the Empire and that of the New Order have not waned in any way shape or form, even with the events regarding the former Grand Vizier know that I and those of COMPNOR will continue to serve as always. Although I am grateful you have deemed me as both appropriate and capable to aid in yours and Regent Dellian's reformation of the Empire, I must admit mild concern of the return of the Imperial Senate seeing the last iteration being a corrupt and inept body. But your proposal of total reformation of the Imperial Senate has brought curiosity to the foundation and functions of what you envision, as such I will humbly accept your offers to conduct meetings to further discuss and examine the vital details which will encompass this new body.

    I am hopeful this will usher a new era for the Empire and that of the New Order, one we may both prosper from.

    Long Live the New Order.




    OFFICE OF SUPREME COMMANDER ZAMIA DAÑO​

    SUPREME PROTECTOR TURENT PHO (@Bandeirante)

    This proposal you offer is a mockery of my intelligence and patience "Supreme Protector". I and those of the Greater Maldrood would not be in this position, let alone the entirety of Oversector Twelve crumbling to the Alliance thanks to your self-destructive actions which has led to large swathes of the eastern galaxy to fall. I suggest you avoid further communication to the Greater Maldrood, or even the thought of entering our territory as you will be seen no different than the Alliance.

    Sooner or later, your reckoning will come, hopefully I still breathe to see it and enjoy watching your legacy end with a final failure to undo all you have done.
     
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    In The Event Of...



    ---    ​

    In the event of the demise of TYCHO SAL and ASTA SAL NÉE [REDACTED] we the undersigned do hereby declare that JAGGED SHEEV BERETHRON E SAL, being of our shared genetic code, shall be the sole benefactor of our combined estates, holdings, and investments in full...

    ...in the event that our legal heir is not of the age of majority, we name THRACKAN SAL-SOLO as his guardian under the proviso that THRACKAN be wed no less than twelve months after the reading of this will to ensure he can provide a stable home environment to our child. Should he fail to do so, legal guardianship shall then fall to his closest living relative, HAN SOLO, should he still be alive...

    ...we oblige the executors of our estate to ensure that our funeral is conducted in state and that no supporters of the Senate are permitted to be present at the viewing. Moreover we oblige them to see to it that our remains are cremated, mixed, and then sent out into space in a sealed container bearing the IMPERIAL CREST to travel the cosmos forever more...

    This we do declare, being of sound mind and body, before the INTERIM IMPERIAL RULING COUNCIL

    TYCHO SAL, GRAND MOFF OF OVERSECTOR 2 AND SUPREME COMMANDER OF THE GALACTIC EMPIRE
    ASTA SAL NÉE [REDACTED], AGENT OF THE GALACTIC EMPIRE    ​
     
    SIDESTORY: Mysterious Ventures
  • Sidestory
    • Mysterious Ventures

    ​

    Naboo, Capital of the Alliance of Free Planets

    It felt strange being on Naboo, for while he had arrived to visit the current capital of the Alliance, he felt a strong connection to the planet. Mon Mothma and her cabinet had been offered the use of the palace in Theed by Queen Soruna to host the growing government but as he walked the halls he couldn't help but feel a strong connection as if the Force was calling out to him.

    "You alright kid? You have that look to you."

    Luke Skywalker glanced to his side and chuckled as he walked with his friend Han Solo, the ever loyal Chewbacca just behind followed by R2-D2. "Fine Han, though a lot on my mind. Feel a connection to this place… granted feeling a lot these days."

    "You talking about the "Force" stuff?" Han put his hands up doing air quotes as he spoke.

    "Thought you had come around to it by now Han, feel I proved it exists."

    "Oh don't get me wrong kid, I admit you got the touch or whatever you call it and it exists, but it doesn't mean I am fully behind it."

    Luke chuckled, "Alright I can accept that. I don't know though Han, strange dealings going on throughout the galaxy. The Force is in flux and not in a good way. Several pushes or rises, I don't really know how to explain it."

    "I am sure it will be fine Luke, you are worrying too much," the feminine voice of Princess Leia Organa fluttered in as she walked up to the four, a smile flowing. Luke instantly brightened, glad for her company, having discovered that she was in fact his long-lost sister, having family once more. The thought of family caused a strong emotion of belonging within the palace's walls, though he couldn't put his finger on it. Perhaps he would try and commune with Obi-Wan and see if he had some ideas. "Perhaps… any new news?"

    ​

    Leia chuckled herself, "The Imperials are tearing themselves apart without us having to do anything. The death of Palpatine has seen an almost complete collapse of order within the Empire. Last reports were the Empire lost over one hundred star destroyers and that is just in the Core and Coruscant."

    "Palpatine sure built a house of cards, didn't he…" Han smirked as he shook his head. "Any word on Corellia?"

    "Sources say they are preparing for an Imperial attack. Cracken gives them fifty-fifty odds at best, and that is if they don't commit everything at them. Though we have some feelers out to some elements on and about Corellia that are very interested in what transpires."

    Chewie snickered as Leia spoke, Han glancing back at his friend with a "Really?" look upon his face before looking at Leia again. "And of course, you can't say who or what you mean can you?"

    "Sorry Han, state secrets."

    "Why do I stick around here again?"

    "You know why," Leia replied with a sighest grin as she glanced at Luke, he once more lost in thought. "What's troubling you, Luke?"

    Han crossed his arms as he winked at Leia but turned to Luke as well. "Bet it's Tandi's letter message isn't it?"

    It was Luke's turn to smirk. "What? No, not even worth my time. Besides I am not the one that killed him anyways, and vengeance nor enticement is the way of the Jedi. No it is… something elsewhere, elusive." He looked at Leia directly, his eyes locking with hers, an understanding instantly communicated, a moment of silence passing between the pair.

    "You know, ever since Endor you two are doing this more and more and I feel like an idiot just standing here. So out with it!"

    "He is leaving Han." She turned to Solo and patted his shoulder. "Don't worry though, we will make sure he has full support this time."

    "You don't have to do that Leia, I am pretty good on my own."

    "You think I am letting my newly founded brother go off gallivanting across the galaxy without any help?" Leia let out a sigh as Chewie howled and R2 beeped and duped. "More than just you R2, though I feel a lot better knowing you will be with him."

    "The Force will be with me but I thank you for that Leia. Also, there is something about this place… Perhaps you can investigate it for me?"

    "What about it is so interesting?" Leia asked, her curiosity peaked.

    "Don't know. Just a strong connection to it. Use your feelings, perhaps it will lead you somewhere."

    "Ahhh this again." Han waved his hands in an admissive, but playful way. "You be careful Luke."

    "You take care of her Han, and listen to Chewie while I am away. The Force be with you both."


    ​

    A day later four X-Wings left Naboo and headed out to the greater galaxy, their destination unknown as elements of the Alliance Fleet assembled around the capital as another and more important document was being prepared on the surface.
     
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