Truth be told, Damos Rigaldi had not wanted to take over leadership of the Empire. It was hardly a position he had been thrust into, but he had held no special desire for it. When Palpatine had been alive, Rigaldi had been generally content with his position as Moff for a major sector. It was only with the death of Palpatine and the assumption of power by Pestage that Rigaldi had seriously considered taking over the leadership of the Empire. He loved the Empire, and firmly believed in Palpatine's New Order, and it was painful to see Pestage begin to taint it through his leadership. A change in leadership was surely needed, and so Rigaldi would reach out, aiming to find others who shared his lack of faith in Pestage. This was an immensely easy process, few, if any, believed that Pestage was a good leader for the Empire. The greater difficulty was finding someone willing and able to replace Pestage as the leader of the Empire.
In to this position Rigaldi would, with trepidation, place himself. Other supporters of a coup against Pestage did not wish to take over his position, for one reason or another. Admiral Corliss, one of the major supporters of the coup, had no interest in politics beyond the removal of Pestage, while the other leading actor in the coup, Director Yularen of the ISB, was still establishing herself within her agency as director and adamantly denied any interest in leading the Empire. Thus, Rigaldi, as an experienced Moff and bureaucrat with a powerbase close to Coruscant, would assume leadership of the coup effort, and ultimately take up the Regency of the Empire. It was hardly as if there was any better candidate than the brilliant and long underappreciated Rigaldi after all.
Taking on such a lofty position was both a blessing and a curse. The power Rigaldi now wielded was incredible; by most measures he was the most powerful man in the galaxy. Yet the Empire was not in a good position. It was stretched thin across the galaxy, fighting against many enemies, and with the loyalties of much of its officer core suspect at best. Many threats were acting to erode and destroy the Empire, most dangerously the Rebel Alliance, now calling itself the New Republic, to emulate the old and ineffective relic which Palpatine had put out of its misery. But a more immediate threat was the Eternal Imperium of former Grand Admiral Malric.
Plans, careful ones, would need to be implemented to deal with these dangers and protect the New Order...
To All Major Imperial Officers and officials,
Despite the illegitimacy of the Pestage Regime in enforcing the will of the Empire, nearly all major promotions and awards granted by the Pestage Regime have, after review, been confirmed. The only promotion that is retroactively nullified is that of Grand Moff Venis to the position of Supreme Commander of the Imperial Fleet. This decision, in light of the ongoing conflict between Grand Moff Venis and several Moffs and Admirals in the galactic north, does not seem to have been prudent.
Conversly, the grievous oversight of Pestage must also be correct, with Admiral Gwendoline Tark having been passed over for promotion despite recommendation by Fleet Admiral Corliss, Grand Moff Brollen, and Director Yularen. These esteemed individuals all holding agreement on the abilities of Admiral Tark is no small feat, and the crucial contribution of Admiral Tark to ensuring the loyalty and stability of the major shipyard of Kuat cannot be denied. Thus she is promoted to Fleet Admiral.
Further orders and allocations will follow as the new government secures itself.
All Hail the New Order, Supreme Regent Damos Rigaldi
Alyaria Yularen had been anticipating some relief with the success of the coup. It had gone far better than she had anticipated with little actual conflict with Pestage and his supporters swifty arrested and executed. Even what she was most worried about, the IRC agreeing to name Rigaldi as Supreme Regent (did he really need such a pompous title?) had gone smoothly. She had felt momentary relief as the new Regent gave his first address to the people of the Empire. Then she felt even more weight fall onto her shoulders. Even though she had seen no change in title, people figured she had the ear of the new Regent. Thus she had become inundated in various messages asking for all sorts of favors. Demands for more ships were only some of the most common of requests. First though she would deal with some more personal messages she had to send. It was still imperative, especially now, that she maintain potentially vital relationships.
Priority One, Encrypted
To: Hrux Dexx, Surface Marshall of Azure Command @JuliusNepos
From: Alyaria Yularen, Director of the Imperial Security Bureau
Surface Marshall,
I wish to congratulate you on your successful actions at Balmorra. Your decisive actions at Balmorra have restored a crucial world back to Imperial Control and prevented the cancer of rebellion from spreading in the heart of the Core. I will ensure ISB officers are despatched to assist you in establishing protocols to prevent a re emergence of Rebel activity. Until I advise you to quickly and ruthlessly suppress any potential threats. I look forward to any further reports and feel free to contact the ISB if you need any more assistance or have any information vital to Imperial security.
Hail the New Order! Hail the Empire! Hail the Supreme Regent!
To: Sett Varian, Grand Moff of the Northeast Oversector @etranger01
From: Alyaria Yularen, Director of the Imperial Security Bureau
Your Excellency,
I wish to congratulate you on your promotion to Grand Moff and thank you for your assistance in uncovering and arresting the traitors. The security of the Northeast Oversector is of the utmost importance to the Empire. I have little doubt that considering the already clear initiative by you and our subordinates that you will be far more proactive than your predecessors. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you need any further assistance from the ISB.
Hail the New Order! Hail the Empire! Hail the Supreme Regent!
Grand Admiral Musscros was viewing operations within Oversector twenty that were ready to be carried out but was interrupted by a top priority message from Imperial Center. An unfamiliar figure appeared that began a long speech to all high-ranking members of the Imperial Military, and by the end of the message only three words echoed through his head, 'Pestage was dead...' The Empire was once again thrown into the fire as leadership on Imperial Center had changed three times in less than a year. Grand Admiral Musscros knew Pestage was not a man worthy of the mantle as successor to the late Emperor, as Musscros was witness to his corrupt and inept ways during the last year of the Emperor's life from the few times he traveled to Imperial Center to meet the Emperor with Pestage at his side. Musscros came to the conclusion that eventually the Grand Vizier would meet his demise, it would require many diverse and ambitious individuals from both the Imperial Ruling Council and high-ranking members of the Imperial Navy to oust Pestage and bring some form of competence to the Empire after the Battle of Endor. Not only was the timing of Pestage's death a surprise, but who succeeded him surpassed the Grand Admiral's imagination...
Moff Rigaldi was appointed 'Supreme Regent' of the Empire by decree of the Imperial Ruling Council, essentially assuming the powers and seat of the Emperor. Musscros had no interaction prior to Pestage's death with Rigaldi, hearing that he was Moff of Foerost before his rapid rise to the most powerful man in the Empire. What surprised and brought legitimate concern to Musscros was what appeared to be a clear lack of gathering the support of the Imperial Navy to this change in leadership. No one could hold that power for long without the backing of the navy, if there were supporters they were hidden from view and not announcing themselves among their peers. Musscros was loyal to the Empire, the New Order and the ideals of the law and order it brought to the galaxy. Musscros would 'stay the course' and wait to see if Rigaldi could deliver the will of the late Emperor and restore Imperial control of the galaxy; if not... the Grand Admiral would have an interesting decision to make in the future.
After finally analyzing the events on Imperial Center Musscros continued his work preparing plans and operations for the oversector, one in particular regarded finalizing a five month long report that was to be sent to Director Yularen of the ISB. He believed the director and her superiors of the Imperial Ruling Council and the new Regent would be most interested of it's contents.
To Director Alyaria Yularen of the Imperial Security Bureau [ENCRYPTED MESSAGE] @Jeeshadow:
Director Yularen, I suspect your work on Imperial Center is most taxing as the death of the former Grand Vizier and announcement of the Supreme Regent gives no rest to the weary. I first would like to commend your excellent work these past five months, not many would be able to handle the stress and demands of your position with the many obstacles in your way.
But to the pressing matter at hand, I declared a secret investigation within Oversector Twenty one week after the Battle of Endor to determine various topics of concern within my command. Agents of the ISB aided by local garrisons gathered evidence which was most useful in rooting out traitors and dissenters. They stumbled across an alarming development which demanded a more thorough investigation to determine if it was true.
Unfortunately the investigation has been concluded as true from reliable sources of both the local ISB and garrisons which I have been in contact with. The various events over the past five months and recently confirmed reports have determined that action must be taken before a situation that is similar to the one that is currently underway not far from Imperial Center once again breaks out.
The full unredacted report should be arriving shortly to your office, once you have viewed the report you will understand the urgency in resolving the issue and notify the Council and Supreme Regent, I shall continue carrying out my previous orders and will stand by to immediately alter my priorities to deal with the issue swiftly.
General Vanthaw watched as the task-force assembled before him. The Grand Admiral had assigned him various ships to assist in his mission. As the final preparations began, an officer ran over to the General and saluted. "Report, Captain Tybal." said Vanthaw in his usual stern voice.
"We have received word from the Grand Admiral..." said the Captain. "...Pestage is dead, sir. Moff Rigaldi has been made Supreme Regent."
Vanthaw stood silent for a second. The Grand Vizier's death was one thing, but a Moff assuming all power of the Emperor was another. Perhaps this means that the Empire's governmental crisis would finally be over. Though, the reaction of the other sectors is yet to be determined. "Any alterations to the plan, Captain?" asked Vanthaw without even changing glance.
"No sir, the Grand Admiral wishes us to continue on as planned." said the Captain.
"Good... send messages to the other ships in this Task Force. We are to depart soon." replied the General.
"Yes sir!" said the Captain, as he ran off.
"Now... we shall begin..." muttered Vanthaw as the hyper-drive engines charged up and the task-force disappeared into the blackness of space.
The deaths of Palpatine and Vader, and the destruction of the Second Death Star, was just the beginning for the Rebel Alliance.
The so-called Alliance to Restore the Republic had grown bolder over the last few months, reorganizing its assets since the disastrous defeat at Hoth a year earlier and assembling its forces into mighty task forces and battle-fleets fully capable of going toe-to-toe with Imperial forces in traditional set-piece battles. Indeed, their victory at Endor seemed to embolden them further, and with the Empire now tearing itself apart, its leadership decided to strike now while the opportunity presented itself.
The first major strike at Imperial legitimacy was a congregation of the Alliance's key leaders. On the newly-secured world of Naboo they established the Alliance of Free Planets, a self-admitted provisional civilian government to help ease the transition toward establishing a new Republic similar in spirit to the old and in lieu of the New Order.
The second was a galaxy-wide offensive against Imperial territory.
Across known space Alliance forces struck out against Imperial holdouts and garrisons. Whether they pledged allegiance to Supreme Regent Rigaldi's government or not, any officers who served aboard Star Destroyers or commanded Stormtroopers found themselves in the thick of it.
The first Imperial sector to cede control to the Alliance was the home sector of the Wookiees and Trandoshans. An Alliance battlegroup, including Commander Wedge Antilles' Rogue Squadron, arrived in-system to liberate the beleaguered Kashyyyk and throw off Moff Battbole, who now swore loyalty to Xalasar's Perlemian Trade Route credit-chasers. General Solo and Chewbacca had already helped move the Wookiee resistance underground -- oftentimes literally, perhaps only with the locals' reluctant cooperation -- and made the job of Battbole's men much harder. The task of pacifying the forest world became impossible when the maniac Moff's fleet was visited by Antilles and a hardened battlegroup of Mon Calamari cruisers. Two of his destroyers, Inveterate and Indestructible, were almost immediately disabled while protecting his flagship, Integrity, from their Y-Wing strikes. Rogue Squadron made quick work of both ships' critical systems, crippling and dooming them to destruction. As more bombers approached to do the same to him, Battbole forsook his own ships and his men on the ground, spooled up his hyperdrive, and fled for Lantillies. Kashyyyk was saved from Imperial vengeance, but the scars from Battbole's reign of terror would persist for many years. [-2 ISDs to Perlemian Group]
Alliance Y-Wings disable the destroyer Indestructible over Kashyyyk.
For the first time in the Galactic Civil War, the Alliance gained control of numerous worlds along the Hydian Way. Anti-Imperial worlds were coaxed (or, in some cases, bribed) into allowing the posting of a garrison, effectively signaling their entry into the anti-Imperial coalition. Other small warlord-esque systems were tamed with smaller fleets expressly devoted to the task.
Near the northern end of the Entralla Route, Alliance forces struck with surprising swiftness and precision, hitting the most lightly-defended worlds of the Imperial Loyalist Coalition. Anemcoro, Ord Biniir, and Vykos were quickly taken, as Yaga Minor and Prefsbelt boasted powerful fleets and Mygeeto was home to a strong ground defense and difficult terrain. Here was proof that the Alliance's intelligence network was indeed strong, shockingly so, to the point that numerous fleets were now directly threatening the most secure Imperial outposts on the Entralla Route.
A brief Alliance attempt to take Bilbringi was halted when it was realized that Imperial defenses there were still too strong to be overcome, thanks in large part to the garrison left by Admiral Kolren while he campaigned further away near the Celanon Spur. Nearby attacks were successful, however, with Xa Fel and Farrfin falling into enemy hands. [-2 ISDs to Empire]
Far to the South a new endeavor was undertaken in an effort to strengthen Alliance control over the Emperor's homeworld of Naboo, now a hotbed for anti-Imperial activity. The garrisons left by Moff Lesanni on her exodus to Eriadu were overwhelmed quickly, one after the other, on Malastare and Darkknell, with Eriadu subsequently made a definitive frontline world in the war against the Alliance. A brief Alliance-backed rebellion sprouted on the planets Kelada and Bestine, but were mercilessly crushed by the forces of Warlord Derzio after barely a day. [-1 ISD, -2 Victorys to Empire]
It was a sea of daggers all pointed at the heart of the Empire and intent on its death.
It was also clear that the Alliance had been planning this offensive for months, perhaps from within a few days of Endor -- but the timing, coinciding with Rigaldi's removal of Pestage -- could not have come at a better moment. However, there seemed to be little stopping the Alliance from launching attacks against the various warlords who had secured their own independence since Endor. Why they ignored them now remained a mystery -- though it was likely, of course, that they simply wished to take down the Imperial juggernaut before dealing with the smaller, weaker, and divided warlords at a later time.
Nonetheless, the Ackbar Offensive had begun.
The Galaxy 1 week after the start of the Ackbar Offensive, mid-4 ABY
Norlock Vandire, Founder and Head of the Church of the Dark side
In the dark depths of the Litany of Faith, two guards stand in front of a decorated door. One can tell what kind of room is behind that door, with all the skull engravings and indecipherable languages decorated on the dark metal which makes up the door. If it is not obvious by the ceremonial garb of those who guard it. With backs faced to the door, the guards stand silently... Until one of them speaks.
"Brother Drackel, when's our shift over?" one of them says.
"It's in 2 hours, Brother Grithus." Drackel sternly replies
"Really? I thought we started 3 hours ago!"
"No Brother Grithus, only 2. And why are you complaining? Didn't you agree with me that it would be a 'Great Honor' to guard the Contispex Maximus?"
"Yeah, but I thought he'd put us in his personal Dread Prayer chamber, and we'd get to learn all sort of dark mysteries!"
"...You do know that he's currently grieving in there, right?"
"Really? I thought he was searching the shadow currents of the force to find out the will of the Emperor or something!? I dunno, something more interesting than just standing here."
"Look, I know you're bored Brother Grithus, but you have to take this seriously! Even if you just wanted to take an opportunity, we still have a job to do."
As the Guards argue and class, a dark presence inside the chamber smiles. He stands up from his dark delve into the force, finally gaining what he searched for. Or perhaps this in of itself is a lie, something to tell to the masses so that an agenda could be pushed? That does not matter for this, however. What does matter is that right in the middle of the 'discussion', the door creaks open and the dread founder walks out from his work, whatever it may have been in that room...And speaks.
"Ah, Dark Greetings Shadow-Guards. I see that you are doing well."
The two guards stop their bickering, and suddenly stutter out a "M-m-m-my Da-ark Fathe-r-rr!" before bowing before the holy figure shrouded in darkness.
"Though fear is a useful tool in the dark side, you should know well that it is only used when appropriate." Replied Vandire "But I have no disappointment in your conflict."
"R-Really?" says Grithis
"Yes, the shadow guard are high on the path of darkness. You both should be well-aware of what privileges this entails."
"I apologize Dark Father, I hath forgotten about this. But still, this duty is a great honor, and I could not let my partner make light of it." Says Drackel
"Do not fret, it is one. But on to the point..."
"What is it, our great Contispex?" The shadow guards both reply in sync
"A conclave is to be held, a dark sermon between all the high-ranking officiates whom followed me to Center. Summon them to the Altar of Power!"
"Why?"
"Dark secrets have been unlocked, and I deign to share them with my lessors."
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ OFFICIAL COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHURCH OF THE DARK SIDE TO THE SUPREME REGENT@Aedan777
Dark Greetings oh former-Moff Rigaldi. I congratulate you on your recent promotion to head of the Empire in these troubling times. Though I and much of the upper-echelons of the church have been busy recently, we have finished our dread perorations and are now active again. So tell me Supreme Regent, what troubles you? What dark omens and secrets do you wished understood? The empire is in a dark place right now, and it would be wise to seek council from such a gathering as us.
In this trying times, it has often seemed as if galactic affairs have thrown truth into disarray, allowing slander and lies to poison the goodwill of many servants of the people. I believe in this, we are much the same, two figures working to secure the prosperity of our regions who have been unduly named as traitors and villains. Just as I have secured the Perlemian Trade Route and the stability of our commerce, so have you secured the political stability of countless Imperial worlds against sedition.
For that fact, I speak to you as an ally, one who sees in our immediate future a looming catastrophe. You have no doubt heard of this so-named Ackbar Offensive, an effort by the Rebels to provoke galactic terrorism. In normal times, this could be dismissed, but I am loathe to see that in fact their actions have borne fruit and countless systems find themselves occupied by unscrupulous warlords.
Chiefly what concerns me is the growing pocket of rebellion, stretching from Boranda to Trandosha, from Manaan to Nixor. It is sickening to see so great a space subject to wanton unlawfulness, but even worse is the potential that it shall spread further, backed by force of arms perhaps to even connect with other pockets at large, whether that of the Corellian Run or Upper Perlemian. In either case, this unification of resistance would be of grave threat to us both.
Thusly, I extend unto you our fullest aid in coordinating a response to this pocket, in the hopes that with the combined might of relevant figures we may not merely withstand this Offensive, but indeed reverse it. In the interest of full disclosure, I will inform you that I have extended a similar message to Admiral Daystru; I am unaware of the relationship you share with the Admiral, but I trust you two may see the wisdom of cooperation.
A Missive from the Directorate of the Perlemian Group on behalf of the Board of Directors
While I count myself more accustomed to civil offices, allow me to thank you for your naval service as a former officer myself. Perhaps at one point or another, we found ourselves in similar theaters of conflict, just as we do now as two men attempting to hold stability against a galaxy afire.
It is that grave danger - the wanton banditry that infests far too many regions of galactic space - that leads me to contacting your office. As you no doubt have assessed, a sizable Rebel force has occupied space betwixt our bastions of stability, stretching from Boranda to Trandosha, from Manaan to Nixor. The emergent Ackbar Offensive threatens to not merely cement this lawless region but expand it. And perhaps worse, unite with neighboring pockets to allow the Rebel Alliance an unprecedented level of operational leeway. Naturally, this cannot be allowed to happen lest we invite further dysfunction to our joint efforts in preserving order in our respective regions. Whether they break through and rendezvous with the Upper Perlemian Rebels or Corellian Run Rebels, this empowerment will threaten us both.
Thusly, I extend unto you our fullest aid in coordinating a response to this pocket, in the hopes that with the combined might of relevant figures we may not merely withstand this Offensive, but indeed reverse it. In the interest of full disclosure, I will inform you that I have extended a similar message to Despot Detat; I am unaware of the relationship you share with the Despot, but I trust you two may see the wisdom of cooperation.
Both the Protectorate and the Despostate has been fortunate enough to not be the immediate targets of the Rebel offensive. However we are well aware of the threat posed by the Rebels and would agree to an alliance against this pocket of Rebels between our respective realms.
To that end, we propose a joint campaign. As you may be aware the only major Rebel shipyards between our territories are the ones in orbit of Bothawui. Allanteen and Druckenwell are in a prime position for attempting a strike against the Bothan homeworld. However, should the Rebel fleet which recently took Kashyyk reinforce their southern front this would become highly complicated.
As such, we propose that the Perlemian Group launch at least limited offensives to draw the Rebel forces North while the joint forces of the Protectorate and the Despostate ready our assault against the Rebels in the South. For such a strategy to work the Perlemian Group will engage the Rebels ahead of our forces for some time, perhaps a month or two until the Rebels are drawn up north.
After which the joint Allanteen-Druckenwell assault will strike at Bothawui.
Your immediate willingness to join in cooperation for greater regional stability is a testament to both of your characters. Know that the Perlemian Group will mobilize all due resources to embark upon a campaign against Rebel forces sufficient to seize their attention. Between the might of Crimson Command and the Perlemian Oversector, and the looming pincer attack by the joint-forces of the Protectorate and Despotate, we shall have victory soon enough.
Following the conclusion of this campaign and a resumption of a more peaceful state, I extend upon both your persons a visit to Talcene. My homeworld bears many luxuries and our meeting in person may yet facilitate greater projects for the future of all of our wellbeing.
A Missive from Kril Xalsar, Director of the Perlemian Group on behalf of the Board of Directors
As high-ranking and well-respected members of both the Board and our civil and military leadership, I am relaying to you information most confidential. In my capacity as Director of our institution, I have engineered a coalition of the willing, consisting of those powers concerned with the Ackbar Offensive. At our side has risen the joint forces of Allanteen and Druckenwell.
As per our campaign objectives, it has been resolved that our forces will concentrate a decisive strike against the Rebels on our bordering space, drawing the initial ire of local resistance. And following this, our aligned forces shall strike into their rear, with the intent to neutralize the system Bothawui and its contributions to the Rebel forces. In the event of success, I predict a collapse in rebellious momentum and a proactive result in preventing the unification of numerous Rebel pockets.
To you, I entrust the authority to use this information accordingly and to formulate appropriate civil and military responses. High Admiral Lanin shall be entrusted with the final coordination of our specific military thrust, in consultation with his subordinate military commanders and Grand Commander Ardal. Should there exist merit in seeking legitimate expansion, High Admiral Lanin will be in full authorization to sanction necessary forces, or likewise to be content with feints and lesser military action.
Please direct any inquiries regarding this matter directly my personal office.
Just as Mohc had fallen and worries of an existential threat seemingly faded, there came yet another galactic force to rackle the state of affairs - the Ackbar Offensive. Effectively a mass movement of rebellion, such a phenomenon naturally threatened to spill into Perlemian Group space. This possibility was only heightened by the inclusion of Moff Battbole and the entrance of Lord-Protector Vaklu into the happenings of Wookie Planet C. The Rebellion took special grieviance with the mistreatment of Wookie labor and made it known through force of arms.
Indeed, much more Rebel activity was only curtailed by Xalasar's private negotiation of ceasefire with certain elements of Rebel leadership, a feat he was not one to share. Through back-channels and encrypted messages, Xalasar worked, content to let the masses believe that the Rebellion was fearful or even tolerant towards the Perlemian Group, a belief that Xalasar believed would engender commercial stability.
But his recent establishment of a coalition was a direct contradiction to this policy, a fact he acknowledged. Xalasar's turn away from this hidden ceasefire: firstly, he believed that it was an inevitably that the Rebellion would break it first, after they had time to establish themselves. The Rebel strike-force at Wookie Planet C was perhaps even evidence of that fact, though it was of dubious merit given the lack of de-facto and de-jure jurisdiction Xalasar held over the system
Secondly, Xalasar believed the Rebellion - despite their assurances of unity - to be too splintered to treat as a single force. While he had spoken with certain figures, he never believed their agreements would be shared universally. He could wring a ceasefire from some provincial bandit, but that would hardly stand if Mon Mothma sought to strike him the very next day.
This specific calculation was why Xalasar now sat in his office, alone and nervous. He knew that his campaign against the Rebellion would draw much ire and he likewise knew that he would have to play damage control as early as possible. Not only this, but he would need to do it in such a way as to not reveal his hand, to not allow advance warning to the leadership of the Rebel Alliance. Their factionalization would need to serve Xalasar as much as it hindered the Rebellion. And he had in his mind a means to do just that - he just needed to make a call.
In full truth, the man he invoked was one who truly caused him fear. He was a long-term politico, an established figure who Xalasar believed could have risen far further than he had, if only his talents were applied for the Empire's might. But Garm Bel Iblis suffered no master, not Palpatine and not Mon Mothma. And for that, many loved him. His stubbornness was likewise his strength, his personality strong enough to not merely survive the Empire, but go on to operate his own movement of fighters. Xalasar was mightily grateful that he had not been among the supporters of the Rebel Alliance.
No amount of stalling would cure Xalasar of his anxiety, as so he ceased his musings on Bel Iblis' career and prepared the message.
A Missive from Kril Xalsar, Director of the Perlemian Group from his Personal Office
Your reputation well-precedes you and I expect you to be a man without need for formality nor apologies for such a direct transmission. Allow me then to proceed to the points relevant to your person.
In spite of the informal ceasefires obtained between those forces operating under my jurisdiction and those of various Rebel chapters, we have been struck in orbit of Wookie Planet C by a battlegroup. Know that I do not levy blame on your person nor your movement; I am well aware that the actions of one among your ranks does not constitute unanimity, though that fact likely disturbs those among the Rebellion who seek their own power. Much can be said of those among the Imperial persuasion just the same.
And as a further sign of my lack of misgivings and indeed my benevolence towards your forces, I will extend to you the courtesy of forewarning. The attack against us necessitates reaction, but such a reaction will not be directed against you nor your space. Any reports to the contrary are those relayed by warmongers who seek to disrupt the peace we have so established. Evacuation of any interests of your own from the systems directly opposed to our reaction would be prudent and we wish only to strike down those who struck at us first.
Remember this gesture and know that my word is true.
The Empire is under threat by many foes, one of the most dangerous of which is the so-called "Dushkan League" formed by rebels that seized control of the N'zoth system's shipyards as well as many nearby worlds. This cannot be tolerated and must be squashed immediately, lest it send a signal to other systems that separatism is a viable option. The command of Grand Admiral Avarice Kent at Cal-Seti, consisting of an Asserter-class Super Star Destroyer and several Imperial Star Destroyers, should have been capable of squashing this insurrection, however the Grand Admiral failed in his duties as a result of a spice addiction and was executed for treason and gross incompetence.
None of his subordinates have sufficient rank or experience to command the fleet and put an end to the insurrection on N'zoth. As a result, I am placing you in command of the Cal-Seti fleet and commanding you to crush the Dushkan League, bringing the shipyards of N'zoth back under Imperial control. You may take your current command to assist in this matter, other forces have been directed to take over security for the Kuat shipyards. I have great faith in your abilities Fleet Admiral, don't disappoint me.
Norlock, what meaningful services are actually done by the "Church of the Dark Side?" I have a galaxy spanning empire to manage, I do not have time to waste on parlor tricks by robed old men playing at sorcery. Either give me useful information or cease attempting to occupy my attention. If you persist in pestering me, your existence will be rectified.
Supreme Regent Damos Rigaldi @Aedan777
I would not try and get your attention if all I had was such petty implements. No, what I offer you is panacea, a solution to the greatest problem the Empire has faced: the fall of loyalty.
Although Sate exacerbated the issue by his lack of...Charisma, the fall of our dearly departed Emperor at Endor has shaken the foundation of the Empire to its core. Already you have seen this by the many traitors who have broken away. Even the Grand Moff of Kuat almost took away a vital world. This foundation needs to be rebuilt, and I think you very well know this, Supreme Regent.
And we at the church have just the solution, just the way for you to keep the Empire intact. To bind it together once more, and give it greater resolve than the rebels could ever hope to muster. I of course, talk about our most basic service: Faith. Religion is a powerful tool, one which can shape the world-view of any believer. One which the masses can find purpose and meaning in. One which can bind an entire galaxy together. Using the power of our very nature, the Church can grant you stability and prosperity. What traitors remain among the ranks will find it harder to have their forces go along with their agenda of treason, for such treachery will be punished by not just the Empire. And any issues with lack of charisma can be mitigated by having the church be the mouthpiece, preaching loyalty to the rightful successor to the Emperor.
So what do you say, Damos? Do you accept how useful the church can be to ensuring the New Order is kept in place, against all of its many enemies?
Mopping up of insurgent strongholds on Bestine after a failed uprising
Safe on the heavily armored bridge of his Praetor II, Boundless, Grand Admiral Ozymandias Derzio walked from station to station reviewing operations with his subordinates. Originally designed as a command ships for entire fleets, the expansive bridge on Derzio's Battlecruiser had in recent months become an impromptu capitol for his entire border region, with Imperial succession and higher command being in constant flux and less than reliable.
It was a state of affairs Moff Menwill had not hidden his displeasure of, feeling that it was a waste of time having Moffs transit to the ship for important decision-making, or if not that it was at least an insult to his loyalty in being one of the first planets to submit to the Warlord to force him to stay for long periods in officer's quarters rather than his luxurious palace on Bestine. However, while he monitored in dismay the current laser bombardment of his palace, which rebel forces had attempted to seize in order to replace planetary command structures and hijack the powerful communications systems, he began to think that quarters on the Boundless were rather cozy once you got used to them.
'A submissive man bows his head to the ambitious one'
He watched the threads of hyperspace weave and form around him as his vessel plunged like a dagger into the depths of space. He could arguably be a spacer, for as much as he tolerated the politics of the desk, he enjoyed this. The odd solitude to the galaxy's solution to distance, hyperspace travel offered a place of isolation no other could. Musings were something of a common trend now, as droids and more suitably professional accountants handled financial matters while Max oversaw the final say, the final signature in these delicate times. He had heard of the... developments on Coruscant later than most, and laughed, toasting to Moff Rigaldi's fortunes with his officers and the Neimoidian financiers who had taken a liking to the Indecisive. Part of the ship was refurbished by this point to serve as its own communications hub with the banks, and for a good reason, since that was what kept the ICA in check, and afloat. The Chief Executive had little in terms of raw firepower and relied primarily on his money and limited pools of charisma to garner support from breakaway Imperials. The fact the Core Authority exists now is just a testament as to how careful he had been in consolidation, though that time had seemingly come to an end, and now as the engines of war churn their way towards Coruscant, while secret daggers plunge one another in the back. He had little expectation for Rigaldi to hold onto the fragmenting Empire, though suspected Venis' chances are higher than some. Coruscant was being encircled and strangulated, and admirals will look coreward for a new refuge against the tide of rebellion. He hoped they would not find it waiting.
The ICA extends its condolences to the lives lost in the change of regime on Coruscant, but wishes the best for Supreme Leader Rigaldi, henceforth recognizing him as the logical successor to the government of Sate Pestage in these trying times.
Outside the bridge window, Cartha watched as forces under her command mustered over Druckenwell. This was the largest concentration of force she, personally, had ever been involved with, let alone been in control of. It was a heady feeling, but it was tempered with cold logic. The ships gathering outside were a fraction of what the Empire had once had to bring to bear, and the greatest fleet ever brought together in the Empire's history had been brought low by the Rebellion. Oh, she knew, now, some of the surrounding realities which caused it, but it did not give her much confidence. The Rebels had, even so, held the line and traded blow to blow with that fleet. They might have lost in the end, in a straight fight. But it proved the Rebel Alliance had plenty of ships to bring to bear if they needed them. She only hoped that they could not gather such forces elsewhere and that they were half as fractious as the remnants of the Empire now were.
Still, she would not allow her concerns to render her paralyzed, unable to take aggressive action. Admiral Avedan felt likewise, and so too apparently did the Perlemian Group. Imperial Center had gone much as she thought it would, though even in her wildest imaginings had not thought that the likes of the Eternal Imperium would arise so close to Coruscant itself. But she had not thought Pestage would last long, though she didn't expect him to be done away with so soon. Maybe it had something to do with some of the recent bestowing of titles she had heard something about. It didn't really matter, she supposed. The old Empire was in disarray, and Center spent most of its resources on self-defense or fighting against former Imperials. She supposed she couldn't blame them too much, she would hardly be comfortable with a Super Star Destroyer in the hands of a now-sworn enemy, and she had mistrusted Pestage enough to be among the earlier of those who declared Independence.
Still, this meant the Rebels were free to push into formerly Imperial territory, to shrink the old Empire even further and to push their offensives against their greatest threats. She would likely regret it, in a number of ways, in the days and weeks to come but Cartha knew she could not simply sit back and let that continue. Truth be told, she had little issue with the Rebellion pushing towards Center. It would draw the attention of those in the Core more quickly, and she would like nothing more than to watch both of those powers hammer away at one another. Things going as they were, however, she was afraid the old Empire might lose too much, that they would fall too quickly. And Cartha was under no illusions that the Rebels had simply decided to leave Druckenwell to its own devices. No, they were simply waiting to crush the independent states when what they perceived to be their main threat was dealt with.
Much as it would put her Despotate in greater danger, especially at this early stage, she knew that she had to act. The 'warlords' as Center called them, would need to do what Center could not or would not do. Take the sword to the Rebels and drive them back before they could take too firm a foothold. It would put them all in the crosshairs, there was no small chance their offensives might fail. But they had to be attempted. To sit meekly by, building their local fleets while the Rebellion grew stronger, bolder, more cohesive. It was a choice between a slow, eventual demise or a risky gambit. Risk was always preferable to inevitable failure. She who dares wins. And she who hesitates is lost.
Improved Trooper Armor Design
This offensive was not the only thing she had planned, of course. At home, she turned her eyes once again to shore up what she viewed to be military weaknesses. Although her own ambitions regarding the Despotate were not, she hoped, excessive (she harbored few delusions of her own galaxy-spanning empire) the ambitions she held for the army, for Her army, were boundless. She would work to turn them into the finest fighting force in the Galaxy. The first step, of many, was to properly equip them. Of course, other aspects were equally, and sometimes far more important to the effectiveness of a fighting force, but aside from the likes of Jedi, bringing a vibro-knife to a blaster fight rarely went well for the knife-wielder, even if they were a master of its use. Without the proper equipment, even the best-trained soldier would be handicapped, and Imperial Logistics had so handicapped her own precious army. Armored little better than corporate security, their weapons were contracted out to whatever manufacturer gave the biggest kickback, and their support equipment had a nasty habit of failing effectively tolerate the various environmental and battlefield conditions placed upon them. She'd sworn some were simply repurposed civilian models and not even the kind intended for explorers or frontier-types. Her quartermaster had more than once voiced their disgust at the clear disdain Imperial Procurement Officers and Supply Office bureaucrats had for the Imperial Army.
To address this she had empowered a number of her subordinates, including her armorers, armory officers, and her quartermasters to put their heads together and confer with relevant engineering and design specialists to commission improved standardized gear, weapons, and armor for the troops. Cartha and her subordinates recognized that they couldn't simply equip all of their troops like a Hoplite or Stormtrooper, but there was a damned sight more that they could do. Druckenwell itself hosted a major Blastech manufacturing complex, as well as other major military industries, and of course, Druckenwell was not the only world which the Despotate had to draw on to produce what they needed. As such, a higher standard of equipment, most of it existing but moderately more expensive designs soon began to be produced for the troopers of Druckenwell.
Alongside their new equipment, Cartha would borrow from local Druckenwellian culture to give her new army a name more befitting her high ambitions. Her new Höchstetruppe was not all she believed it could become, not yet. But the first steps had been taken.
TIE/IN undergoing repair and retrofit
Another weakness that Despot Detat could not overlook was in the matter of her starfighter corps. In its own way, it had been shortchanged significantly as well. Although their lightweight designs often gave them enviable handling characteristics, the lack of active defenses, particularly shields, made the TIE's in her fleet vulnerable. The Empire could afford the trade-off of cheap but maneuverable fighters given the vast numbers of potential recruits it had to draw on. The Despotate would not be so lucky. Quality, not quantity, would have to become its watchword in all things. Adding shields to TIE designs was not unheard of, of course, but she knew it generally degraded other aspects of their combat performance. She knew it was not an issue which would be solved overnight, but she ordered that unless it might seriously undermine their combat capabilities, all TIE's in her fleet would be queued for a retrofit to add shielding. She set those starfighter engineers she could find to the problem, tasking them with minimizing the negative effects on power-consumption, speed, and maneuverability adding such extra equipment to existing and future TIE's would bring. She gave them what she felt was adequate funding and support for the task, a not insubstantial amount, and gave no specific parameters for success. The results would, hopefully, speak for themselves when the time came.
The Imperial Loyalist Coalition recognizes the government of the Supreme Regent Rigaldi as legitimate and shall return under the authority of the Imperial Center. The deposition of the incompetent Grand Vizier Pestage is a large step towards the reestablishment of Imperial control over Galaxy.
The Coalition remains steadfastly opposed to the insidious forces that stand against the Empire and shall continue the fight against all those who threaten the stability of the Imperial North.
Signed,
Admiral Maldar Starran
Admiral Elixir DeVir
Moff Krall Braham of Velcar Sector Moff Gilgeous Shai of Prefsbelt Sector
The Empire is under threat by many foes, one of the most dangerous of which is the so-called "Dushkan League" formed by rebels that seized control of the N'zoth system's shipyards as well as many nearby worlds. This cannot be tolerated and must be squashed immediately, lest it send a signal to other systems that separatism is a viable option. The command of Grand Admiral Avarice Kent at Cal-Seti, consisting of an Asserter-class Super Star Destroyer and several Imperial Star Destroyers, should have been capable of squashing this insurrection, however the Grand Admiral failed in his duties as a result of a spice addiction and was executed for treason and gross incompetence.
None of his subordinates have sufficient rank or experience to command the fleet and put an end to the insurrection on N'zoth. As a result, I am placing you in command of the Cal-Seti fleet and commanding you to crush the Dushkan League, bringing the shipyards of N'zoth back under Imperial control. You may take your current command to assist in this matter, other forces have been directed to take over security for the Kuat shipyards. I have great faith in your abilities Fleet Admiral, don't disappoint me.
I will leave at once, Supreme Regent. I will be taking my current fleet as additional support. I will take command of fleet there and grind these rebels into dust. We will be sure to remind them of the true power in the galaxy.
Congratulations on your rise to power, we of the Imperial Loyalist Coalition see this as a solid step towards solidifying the Empire and getting back to the true task, slapping down these rebels back to the gutters where they belong. This current uprising shows clearly we can not afford to have these squabbles reducing our own power base or the rebels will sneak in the back door like the rodents they are.
All 3 conflicts that have occurred in the North have been as a result the Warlord Venis's premature escalation and actions, we have not initiated any combat with our Empire brethren, we have just tried to protect our own. As a result of the warlords actions and instability, the rebels have grabbed systems from the Empire.
We request intervention with Venis, he is dedicated to eradicating our power base to increase his own, and not for the gain of the Empire, but for his own gain. We wish nothing further than to maintain our own space for the greater empire. I personally want nothing more than to go on the offensive with the rebels and smack this latest insurrection down.
Over the system of Fondor was the lurking shadow of Grand Admiral Musscros' flagship Final Judgment, flanked by numerous Imperial-Class Star Destroyers patrolling the Fondor Shipyards and the newly-created hull of a Bellator-Class Star Dreadnaught which demanded most of the shipyards resources to construct. Fondor was always busy, churning out vessels to expand the Imperial Navy against the multiple enemies that continue to defy the Empire. One of the things created from the shipyards of Fondor and elsewhere was the Fondor Defense Fleet, modeled on the Kuat Defense Fleet which protects the vital shipyards over the planet. The Fondor Defense Fleet was expanded by order of Grand Admiral Musscros once Fondor was proclaimed an Imperial Fortress World, making it one of the most powerful Imperial fleets south of the Core Worlds. Even with it's large size, an unusual concentration of ships were noted above Fondor, to bystanders and lower ranks it was just the regular movement of the navy through the system, but to the highest ranking officers... moves were being prepared for some type of major operation.
Grand Admiral Musscros, fully adorned in his all-white uniform depicting his prestigious rank was making his way from the docking yard towards an elevator that leads to Final Judgment, being surrounded by his Shadow Guard wherever he went. It was rumored the Grand Admiral had just held a high-ranking meeting involving the Admirals and other high-ranking individuals gathered over the system, all were shocked and angered by Musscros' statements and documentation as they left the meeting and returned to their ships. Soon after the various vessels in orbit were combined and mobilized into a single fleet, preparing to move out of the system to an undisclosed location.
The Moff of Fondor had gotten to Musscros before he closed the elevator door, requesting where the Grand Admiral was going so he could notify the local garrison of his departure and expand patrols in his absence until he returned. Musscros, with his arms crossed showed a rare smirk to the Moff and simply said "I 'm going to swat down a couple of bothersome flies". A moment later the elevator closed, and not long after the Final Judgment with the entire combined fleet left the Fondor system to parts unknown...
Bridge of the Retribution
Midway through Hyperspace Jump
Finally. This was the chance Gwendoline had been waiting for her entire life. While at first she had been nervous and appalled at the coup on Imperial Center her fears were quickly relieved to find that it had resulted in her promotion to Fleet Admiral. She had struggled watching the construction of an Executor class Super Star Destroyer at Kuat but was now heading to command her own. While a smaller class of SSD the new ship would ideally become her new flagship.
It would serve as such for her coming quelling of the Dhuskan League which had risen up in the Galactic West thanks to the incompetence of their commanding admiral. She would prove to the ruling council that they had not made a mistake in choosing her for this assignment and she would prove to these rebels that treason came with a heavy price.
She had seen to it that her crews had been drilled to repel various rebel tactics from the most recent battle reports she could get her hands on. She had even been preparing them for the subterfuge these rebels might bring. Suicide attacks, precision starfighter assaults and sabotage had been drilled into her officers' heads for the past few days which was disseminated to their squads. Before they had jumped she had sent a similar set of orders to the fleet they would be reaching in the coming days. She had informed them she would not be as careless as her predecessor had been and expected their crews to be ready for immediate jump when she arrived.
It was all falling into place. Fleet Admiral Tark would show the galaxy who she was.
