Junction Cleansing Wave | Panatha Burns | EE+Dasid Anya, AC+Ammuud/Bonadan

[STRATCOM]

The Third Civil War was over, almost all Sith factions collapsed. At this time the Maw rose; although this story has nothing to do with them. The Eternal Empire avoided attacks by ending support for the Sith Empire before the end of the war, even ending the war with GA. Nevertheless, many in the Galaxy believe that there are Sith in the Eternal Empire and that the imperial court may also be under their influence.

They really couldn’t be wrong about anything bigger than that. One thing, however, is true, Panatha is the vassal state of the Eternal Empire. And what is this planet known for? It was the centre and home world of the Zambrano family, they came from here and the ruler of the planet was also a Zambrano. Exactly the Uncle of the former Sith Emperor Darth Carnifex . Although the man was not a Force User, the question may be legitimate as to how much the man was a puppet in the hands of the former Emperor.

And Ashlan Crusade, led by Cedric Grayson , has decided to exterminate the Zambrano family and kill everyone under the purge. That is why they came to the planet with a larger army. The case is very delicate, as the Eternal Empire and Ashlan Crusade have had quite good relations with each other since the last siege of Ziost. Grayson managed to get Empress L'lerim to stop supporting the Sith Empire.

And Empress Ingrid L'lerim is well known for not wanting the civilian population to be in danger, but because of the AC's current actions, Panatha's population was also in danger. Last but not least, it was one of the planets of the Eternal Empire that the empire wants and will protect, as they know for sure that there are no Sith here.

The biggest question is whether the whole conflict will eventually turn into a war between the two factions, or is there any chance that all this will be settled peacefully?

Objectives​

Objective 1: Under Siege

The Ashlan Crusade besieged the capital of Panatha, as the royal palace is also located here. Their plans include killing or arresting all Zambrano loyalists, probably even if they are just civilians. As it is a warrior people, they can expect more resistance in the city. Of course, the Eternal Empire does not want to let these deeds happen. As in the Third Civil War, every effort is being made to ensure that the population does not suffer. Even if it all involves armed conflict.

AC objective: find all Zambrano loyalists in the city at any cost and capture or possibly kill them; in light of the command they received from their superiors.

EE objective: to protect both the civilian population and the city itself from AC; and organize and assist evacuation.

Important Locations: spaceport, government building, noble district, city hospital.

This is basically the PvE objective, but if anyone wants PvP here, feel free!


Objective 2: Downfall

The biggest battle is at the royal palace, where the Zambrano family also lives. The huge palace has plenty of gardens, with numerous protected secret tunnels leading into the building, the palace is protected by walls and shields. Probably even the largest forces will besiege this place. The Empress of the Eternal Empire is also present in the palace in person, hoping that they could resolve the situation more peacefully than a total war. Meanwhile, the goal of the Ashlan Crusade was to get in and to have the largest Sith dynasty permanently disappear from the pages of history and the ranks of the living.

AC objective: get into the palace where the members of the Zambrano family live on the planet, and possibly capture and then kill/execute them.

EE objective: to prevent members of the AC from entering the palace at all costs and to protect the ruling family.

Important Locations: Royal palace, gardens, corridors, secret tunnels.


Objective 3: The Blockade

Fighting takes place not only in the capital but also in space. The Ashlan Crusade took the planet under blockade. Their plans did not yet include orbital bombardment, the blockade was mostly for the purpose of being able to control all ships entering and leaving the planet. Of course, the Eternal Empire didn’t all like it, so they’re planning a response, too. Despite the blockade, they are constantly sending units to the planet and are doing everything they can to lift the AC blockade. For the time being, so as not to cause an even greater war conflict.

AC objective: to prevent Zambrano loyalists from fleeing the planet, and to slow down, to prevent the military units of the Eternal Empire from reaching the planet.

EE objective: preferably by avoiding total war, to achieve the end of the blockade. To assist and support evacuation and their own units, and to prevent AC from reaching the planet.


Objective 4: BYOO

There are many more ways to interact with Panatha and by extension, the locals or others, than are listed here. Not to mention, there is an entire hex worth of stories to be told. Have fun in any way that you please!

Important informations:

• Junction will begin on August 16, 2021. at 6pm (CEST). Here you can search for dance partners.
• It is basically an AC-EE junction where Kainate members also join as they are also affected by the plot.
• The AC and EE are not at war with each other, their relationship is positive neutral due to the events of the last Ziost invasion.
• Kainate is in an interesting position, has no diplomatic relationship with any of the factions, so they are free to decide how they treat each other. Although they are on the same side as the EE, they may be hostile due to the TSE-EE mutual defensive pact's dissolve. Important: EE and TSE only dissolved the MDP, not the trade and other alliance.
• Objectives 1 and 4 are PvE objectives, 2-3 are PvP, but you can play PvE and PvP on any objectives if you want.
• Panatha capital's link.

The gift "banners":

 

[Ingrid L'lerim]

Lady Ingrid L’lerim Ragal Terassi Vandiir
Eternal Empress of the Eternal Empire, Lord Commander of the Wardens of the Shroud, Leader of the Dawn of Hope
The Red Witch, The Night Queen, Lady Stuztala, Head of the House L’lerim, CEO of the HPI Consortium, Archon of the Primyn Group​

Location: Palace
Objective II.: Downfall
Equipment: The Soulsabers (hidden) | Brynja coat | Hersir Imperial Uniform | Viper Mk. I Skinsuit | The Last Gift || Empyrean gland | OPBC-01m || ENS Crimson Empress (in space)
Writing With: Darth Carnifex | Cedric Grayson (?) | Closed

[ Defence of Panatha ]
<"High Nelvaanian"> | ~ telepathic communication ~ ​

It must have been perfectly clear to everyone that it was not the most pleasant news the woman had received that Ashlan Crusade’s fleet was heading for Panatha, without any declaration of war or announcement. She knew what the reason might have been; it was not hard to figure out that after Csilla, Ziost and Korriban they wanted the destruction of the Zambrano family. But not all Zambrano were equal to Carnifex. There were many who fought him or were completely neutral.

One thing is for sure, the Empress will not let Panatha burn like Ziost did. There were no Sith here, it was a people whose all sins were that they lived on the planet where the Zambrano family ruled. The woman knew the ruler, the man was not even a Sith. And the planet was the vassal planet of the Eternal Empire, they were citizens of the Empire, so it was clear they were going to protect it.

Even before the arrival and blockade of Ashlan Crusade, she arrived with the Crimson Empress, and her first thing was to go to the palace. Her own troops and fleet will also arrive soon, probably at the same time as the Ashlan Crusade. Luckily, she knew Lord Grayson as a rational man, so she hoped they could come to an agreement here as well. And she hoped Carnifex would not react to this action, which was a clear provocation against him.

As for the red-haired woman, she had never spoken to the former emperor, nor had she had any contact with him, but she had already spoken to Adriel Zambrano, the ruler. Eventually the enemy(?) also arrived. Since Lord Grayson was a man who led his armies himself, she hoped he would be here now. That is why she sent a message to all ships under AC control. She didn't know which one the man could be on.

"Lord Cedric Grayson , welcome! I hoped that this kind of atrocity would not take place among our states, especially not after Ziost. But it is precisely for this reason that the Eternal Empire does not treat the act of Ashlan Crusade as an invasion for the time being. I hope we can talk about this. I am waiting for you in the royal palace, on similar terms as last time. The guards will let you in." she sent the message.

She waited in one of the large empty halls for the crusader to arrive. As always, she wore a uniform without rankings with a coat without decorations and honours. She stood in a military position, in a small straddle, with a stiff back, her hands clasped behind her back. By the time he should have been here pretty much, if he came, the woman felt something different. A familiar power; she knew him and this power very well when she was a novice Force User, feeding on the energies generated by the man during the first siege of the Muunilins. She didn't even know Adrian then. When the man got closer and entered the hall, the woman spoke.

"I heard enough about you, to know... I'm aware you know, this attack was only a trap, because they want you. I'm not happy to see you here. I hoped it wouldn't be that simple to draw the former Emperor out of hiding. You've left yourself exposed, my lord Carnifex. Because of this, I have reason to assume, you have come into the trap with a plan, my lord." she said in her usual cold and military voice. The "not happy" was just a phrase because she was completely brittle and neutral on the issue.

Only then did she turn in his direction, with cold, stern blue eyes, a cold look as if her face had been carved from marble or ice…

 

[Eina L'lerim-Vandiir]

Eina L’lerim-Vandiir, the First
Matriarch of the Valkyrja; Leader of Sanctuary; Liaison of the Fjölkyngi Smiðr Guild​

Location: Near to the Palace
Objective II.: Downfall
Equipment: Sverð Fyrstr (weapons) | Skrúð Engill Fyrstr (armour) || Empyrean gland | OPBC-01m
Writing With: Pietro Demici | Corin Autem | Lilanna Kelamvor

[ Flúgva valkyrjur á val ]
<"High Nelvaanian"> | ~ telepathic communication ~ ​

Eina was not happy with the developments. She spent the pre-attack times at home, in the Netherworld, with her own people and taking care of their things. When she returned, she heard about the purge. Her people were in alliance with the Eternal Empire, not least her mother was the Empress, and Eina's younger brother, also he was her "foster son", lived here, she raised Adrian. She didn’t want AC and EE to go to war with each other. Mortals were at times so incomprehensible and childish.

She hoped she could stop the fight, but in the meantime, it would have been great if it hadn't been revealed what her relationship was with the Empress or Lord Vandiir. The Valkyrja had no problem with them being relatives, but in the middle of a war it was not pleasant to explain. Especially not before EE, why is Ashlan helping the Crusade instead of her own people. Actually, that was an interesting question. She found it attractive and fascinating in the AC that they were very far from her mother's people, the Eternal Empire, or Valkyrja; yet there were countless potential Valkyrja candidates among them.

As for her usual outside of the Netherworld, she again chose the winged appearance with reddish hair. Eina felt good in this form, maybe just because this was a similar hair colour like her mother's, she didn't know. She did not come with the AC armies, but from the Netherworld. She came over to Panatha via one of the small rifts. By the time she arrived, the AC people were already on the planet. As Valkyrja had combat knowledge and strategic, commanding knowledge, she went/flew to the palace, where she also found a familiar person.

Because she was invisible, Eina became visible in the air and took on her physical form. The sound of wing strikes was audible, then landed on the ground with an elegant gesture, close to Pietro. She narrowed her wings to give her opponents as small a target as possible.

"Lord Demici, what is the reason for attacking the forces and vassal state of the Eternal Empire?" she asked quickly, she still has the same voice like the Eternal Empress, Ingrid L'lerim.

 

[Darth Carnifex]

"Grayson thinks himself a predator, but he only fumbles in the dark." Replied the baleful voice of the Dark Lord of the Sith, His countenance wreathed in shadows as He approached the Eternal Empress. A heavy cloak had been draped over the Dark Lord's body, concealing His form behind rough zeyd-cloth and masking the armor and weapons He carried with him. If the Empress had asked when the Dark Lord had arrived none of the palace guards nor her own soldiers would have been able to give her an answer, for they did not see Him enter the palace grounds.

Like a phantom, He had seemingly materialized out of thin air.

He towered above the Eternal Empress, her head barely reaching the crux where His arm met His torso. His eyes glanced down at the Empress, molten copper halos buoyed in inky blackness before they fixated on a distant point in space imperceivable to others. "Stumbling forward towards his obsession, his singular hatred. It will consume him. I will watch as it does."

Now He looked again to the Eternal Empress, His gaze fully falling upon her. "But why are you here? You should let the tide sweep over this world, let my people strengthen themselves in this molten crucible. War has always benefited us, reminds us of who we are. Our children are taught to kill at a young age, how to wield a sword or fire a blaster. Youth as young as six will take up arms on this day, milady, and will take a life if they are able. Or they will die. It will be a great thing regardless, the strong will be sharpened and the weak will be culled."

Such was the way of the Epicanthix, a warrior people whose tradition stretched back eons. All of Panatha anticipated death, they grew anxious for the opportunity. Trepidation of death was cowardice, and none wanted to perish as a coward. They would rather slit their veins than live with that eternal moniker. Even now, as He spoke with the Eternal Empress, the denizens of Panatha gathered themselves in preparation. They sharpened their swords, calibrated their blasters, and fastened their armor. They whispered invocations to the Gods, that blessed trinity which adorned every facet of Epicanthix life. They implored Nereus for the bravery to stand without fear, Nussyn for their reflexes in the battle to be sharp, and Neaos for the ruthlessness to kill without guilt.

"When Grayson arrives, he will attempt to kill me." It was not an accusation, it was a statement of truth. "You must not interfere."

Ingrid L'lerim | Cedric Grayson ​

 

[Adenn Kyramud]

Objective: Protect the Palace and the City
Tags: Ingrid L'lerim | STRATCOM | Cedric Grayson | Darth Carnifex
Links: Hell’s Angel | Heavy Walker | Beskad Elite | Beskad Warriors | AT-AD | ProtecTrak | Titan Tank | Hellwalker

War, and a cleansing one at that, had been directed towards Panatha. Supposedly the Ashlan Crusaders sought to eliminate or capture Zambranos from the planet. Normally, Adenn would care little if a Zambrano were under attack, not after all the hell his vode and he had gone through because of them. But it wasn’t just the Zambranos under attack. It was also every other House on Panatha, and more importantly, the Fitz-Kierkes as well. And seeing as his wife was a Fitz-Kierke, that meant these Ashlan Crusaders had awakened a beast the likes of which they couldn’t comprehend.

Gazing across the palace's defenses, Adenn smiled at the thought. He saw so many Clans members present, so much marshal might ready to defend this world from invaders. The damnable fools didn't know what they had awakened, time to show them why it was unwise to mess with certain Mandalorians and their families. But looking across the assembled might, Adenn felt they would soon understand all too well what they faced. Arrayed across the city were armies of warriors, Mandalorian or not. They were legion in their numbers and stance, ready and willing to protect this planet from all who dared attack.

The forces were many and terrible, from the Houses of Panatha to the Mandalorian Clans that had come to defend this place. And mixed in were the true masters of siege warfare, Clan Mortui and its warriors. Massive Beskad Warriors strode the city and palace without fear, wearing armor and wielding weapons designed for such warfare. With each squad of Beskad Warriors strode at least one AT-AD and in the cases of larger groups, two or more, towering ever taller than their mortal counterparts. More than that, defenses lined the streets, from simple sandbags to more advanced fortifications with shield generators. And at strategic intervals were Titan Tanks, dozens upon hundreds ready and waiting. Half their number already in anti-air or artillery form, the other half 'simple' tanks prepped for anything. And with those tanks strode Hellwalkers and AT-ADs, even as said tanks protected ProtecTraks, ensuring relatively even coverage of powerful shields across the city.

But no matter the might of all within the city or around the palace, it all paled before the truest pinnacle of engineering. Everything paled before the might of Hell's Angel, standing tall before the palace. Around its towering height flew fighters, even as more warriors, tanks, and shields were arrayed around its massive bulk. Around even that stood numerous Heavy Walkers, all visible and ready for war. Any even approaching the city would see its might and the comparatively small figures arrayed around its feet. Those in the city proper would be able to see and hear the sound of it tracking across the landscape, ready and waiting to unleash its might. And standing near the forefront of the palace was Adenn Kyramud, leader of such might. Everything was ready for the arrival of the Foolish Crusaders, ready to unleash hell upon them all.

They had no idea what awaited them once they reached the surface, but Adenn felt generous enough to warn them. Perhaps they would be smart and heed his words. If they weren't, they would learn the meaning of true warfare, of siege warfare the likes they had never seen before. Thus, Adenn activated an open channel to the entire system, video feed included. It showcased Adenn standing before the palace, skull helm glowering and Jaig Eyes gleaming, even as several Beskad Elite stood in the background, every last one of them holding heavy weapons and powerful shields with contemptous ease.

"To the fools who dare attack Panatha this day, know this and remember it well. You will fail and you will die if this idiocy continues. This is your one and only chance to take the peaceful route, to leave Panatha well enough alone and peacefully meet with Empress L'lerim. Continue your attack and you will incur the wrath of all on and around this planet. And I can assure you, nothing you have faced comes close to the power arrayed against you. Nothing compares to the experience or fury of our warriors."

Crossing his arms across his chest, Adenn's visor glowed a dark red as he leaned forward.
"The might of all the Houses of Panatha stands against you. With them comes a full House of Mandalorians, five full Clans of seasoned warriors. Our full might and all our millennia of experience in warfare is arrayed against you. We have withstood a thousand invasions and will withstand a thousand more. Our fleets and our armies and all the might therein is waiting. We have gods of war and death the likes of which you have never seen. You cannot stand against the might before you, nor survive our wrath once unleashed. End this foolish crusade lest you bring about your deaths and the eternal animosity of all present. Leave, or die."

 

[Isla Draellix-Kobitana]

​

Islas Draellix Commanding the Grand Fleet of Ashla and also writing ground invasion.

Fleet Action

Spoiler: Fleet Composition

• Flagship Ironheart Dragoon class battlecarrer
• 6 X Dominion class escort frigate
• 8 X Seraphim class patrol frigate
• 8 X Principality class corvette
• Carriers filled with a mixture of Pegasus Interceptors and Phoenix Multirole starfighters
• Ships have full complements of Ashlan Marines

Here we go again, thought Admiral Isla Draellix to herself as the Ashlan fleet took up position around Panatha. At least half of naval combat seemed to be waiting around hoping nobody wanted to open fire. She did not fully support this endeavour, scratch that, she supported it with every fibre of her Ashlan blood, but when didn’t fully agree with it. Was the investment in resources and the risks to troops, if military intelligence was correct, worth it for the destruction of the family. Korriban had shown that the Grand Fleet of Ashla was as vulnerable as any, and they were still reeling from the losses suffered. No matter, she would steel her resolve and face this next challenge with the strength that made her the woman she was.


Her command ship for this action, the Dragoon Class Battlecarrier Ironheart stood back off a way from the planet to be deployed as necessary, and her flotilla of frigates and corvettes were spreading around forming a picket between the planet and potential hyperspace egress points. Already two of her corvettes had confronted and inspected a pair of civilian vessels leaving the space, to the credit of the captains, everyone had held their nerve for the first potential flash point and the inspection had gone without a hitch. No arrests were made and the ships were sent on their way, tourists, off enjoying enjoying themselves, it was a nice change of pace.


The command holo in front of her showed clearly her own ships and several forces of from other factions, she was reluctant to call them enemies, The Eternal Empire, whilst not full allies, were at least on good terms, so this event had to be handled with care, no storming in firing everything at a moments notice. Isla noted that there were several energy signatures appearing on her crystal grav trap, indicating at least a few cloaked ships in the vicinity. But that was no surprise these days as cloaks were increasingly common.


”Have the landers proceed as ordered to objective one, and keep their two escort frigates over the landing site for cover. The rest of the frigates need to begin running sweeps to make sure nothing sneaks by" said Ilsa to her captain, who hurried to follow his orders, interceptors began spilling out of the hangars of aboard the Ironheart and squadron SLAMed themselves into their alloted spatial positions, ready for anything.

Spoiler: Summary

Ashlan ships and interceptors arranging themselves around the planet, beginning to approach craft trying to leave the system. Ashlan Flagship holding distance

Ground Acton

Spoiler: Landing force composition

• 2 X Dominion class escort frigate
• 3 X Bastion planetary invasion ship
• Carriers filled with a mixture of Pegasus interceptors and Phoenix Multirole Starfighters
• Ships have full complements of Ashlan marines
• Ground invasion troops comprise of 3 legions of Sisters of Ashla
• Each lander contains hundreds of Ashlan Medium Tanks with a variety of loadouts including a large amount of IFV transport variants
• Each lander carriers dozens of Ashlan Heavy Tanks with a variety of loadouts

The three Bastion landers peeled away from the rest of the fleet along with the two escort frigates towards Panatha. The huge ships dived into the atmosphere of the planet, their powerful shields glowing with ionised gas from atmospheric friction. Travelling at over ten times the speed of sound they would have looked like a trio of meteors flying through the sky. The two frigates tracked their position and kept above them in orbit, planning to provide orbital cover. The captain of the ship, sat in the darkened bridge gripped his chair tightly as the ship vibrated and groaned.


The landing side was an area of relatively flat jungle approximately 16km from the edge of the city, with good access to the hospital and associated facilities. Massive retros fired and the ships lost their momentum, landing on enormous telescopic legs that uprooted trees and sunk into the ground. Rapidly, small numbers of interceptor squadrons and fighter bombers launched from the sides of the ship to protect against incoming enemies if necessary, and also to cover the advance of the ground forces.


Underneath the vessel, huge ramps lowered and repulsor tanks moved out through the jungle. The location had been chosen to ensure the tanks could move out safely and so far the Ashlan planning had come good. The first objective was the safe occupation of the hospital, this was not an aggressive take over, but the Ashlan command wanted to ensure no repeats of the hospital massacre on Zoist. A message had been sent out to inform their target that although heavily armed, the intention was a humanitarian occupation and that defending units would be treated with cooperation if they acted with good faith whilst on hospital grounds. From Zoist it was clear that the mandolorians held no honour above that of the sword, but it was the way of the Ashlan Admiral and Grand Master of the Order of the Sisters of Ashla. They would extend this olive branch but keep their guard very much on the alert.


Other elements of the landing force began to spread out in a wide arc to encircle the city, this force would intercept vehicles leaving the city to prevent possible escape by the Zambranos. They had orders to not engage unless fired upon by enemy forces. The Sisters of Ashla were ready to react where needed, highly trained and heavily armed they were a formidable force, but in this case they hoped that they could do their job without too much violence.

Spoiler: Summary

3 Ashlan invasion ships landed in jungles not far from city
Dozens of medium tanks filled with Ashlan Sister speeding toward hospital under flag of truce
Hundreds of other medium tanks and heavy tanks beginning to encircle city

 

[Ingrid L'lerim]

Lady Ingrid L’lerim Ragal Terassi Vandiir
Eternal Empress of the Eternal Empire, Lord Commander of the Wardens of the Shroud, Leader of the Dawn of Hope
The Red Witch, The Night Queen, Lady Stuztala, Head of the House L’lerim, CEO of the HPI Consortium, Archon of the Primyn Group​

Location: Palace
Objective II.: Downfall
Equipment: The Soulsabers (hidden) | Brynja coat | Hersir Imperial Uniform | Viper Mk. I Skinsuit | The Last Gift || Empyrean gland | OPBC-01m || ENS Crimson Empress (in space)
Writing With: Darth Carnifex | Cedric Grayson | Closed

[ Defence of Panatha ]
<"High Nelvaanian"> | ~ telepathic communication ~ ​

"He is not the only one who will be consumed by their hatred. The next will be Rurik Fel . I felt his hatred, his pain, I feasted upon them. A barrel of gunpowder inherited Tavlar's throne. Although Lord Grayson seems a much more rational man than Fel. I want to trust in his common sense, my Lord." she answered in a cold voice.

She looked up her gaze at the tall man, but remained motionless outside the head movement. She knew she should feel fear in the other man's presence, but she felt nothing. Compared to Carnifex, her own late Emperor was a weak little boy not a Sith Lord or a Force Master. The woman never did not feel as much power and strength as she did now. As for Fel, she knew that Tavlar's iron hound was not liked by many, including Julius Haskler and his faction. Will there be a civil war? It was not important at the moment.

"I know my people are like that, probably Lord Vandiir made a report about me, so you might know that my ancestors came from Midwinter and we hold a lot of traditions from there. I know you know them through Lord Heavenshield. The reasons are not the same as why I helped the Sith Empire. But several people of your house have earned my respect, and the Panatha is under my protection, Lord Carnifex. They are already the inhabitants of the Empire. I take care of them. I am not Darth Tacitus, I have never been a Sith, as a ruler, for me, honor is paramount. I saw what the Ashlan Crusade did during the Third Civil War. They will not do it again, especially not with a world for which I am responsible!" she replied honestly, but still in an ice-cold voice, without emotions.

She knew that Carnifex and Tacitus knew each other, yet the late Emperor did not take her with him when he met the Zambrano family. The woman alone had to earn the respect of Darth Prazutis and Joycelyn Zambrano , unbeknownst. She made it. Ingrid finally nodded at the man's words, knowing she shouldn't. But the red-haired woman was put in a very awkward position.

"I know if I do, our neutrality is over and the Eternal Empire will be the target of everyone because they will think I support you, Lord Carnifex. However, I trust that Lord Grayson is not an idiot either and will not do anything in the future that would give reason to war between our peoples. Because if he attacks someone in a place that is under my protection, I will be forced to consider it as an act of war. Even if it's about you. I will insist on a fair duel instead of pointless killing to avoid war. I hope you will be a partner in this, my Lord." the Empress said her terms.

 

[Ghost "Frankie" Sterling]

Equipment: D16 slugthrower, D16 slugthrower pistol, H.A.R.M Mass production Type armor,
writing with: Open
Frank would set his hardlined HUD to make his id ping for freindlies say Frank "Ghost" Sterling. It might turn heads but at the same time His been dead for a bit so people might have forgotten about him already. Arriving at the palace after hearing report of the siege from the local Hades Corp branch Ignoring the HUD's warnings of possible death from the company.

Making it to the palace in short order Ghost Would key up the coms channels for allied forces. "this is Ghost, I've arrived at the palace to assist in the defense I'm going to assist in the Front lobby over."

Chambering a new round in the D16 assult rifle as well as pistol he would join the other Ultranaughts in holding the building hoping the other forces wouldnt give him to much trouble its not everyday a dead man comes back a monster to help.

 

[Darth Carnifex]

"As was by design," spoke Carnifex of Fel's succession to Tavlar's position within the New Imperial Order. Though the Brotherhood of the Maw had carried out the attack, as they had done so throughout the galaxy to taunt and draw the enemy powers into pitfalls of death and destruction, there was only one person that could have possessed the knowledge of the former Sith capital that allowed the assassination to be as successful as it was. He did not speak the words aloud, but it was heavily implied.

"No killing is pointless, Empress, do not be naïve. Every death serves a purpose, whether superiority or terror, they all serve to further another's ambitions. The young Grayson is obsessed with avenging his homeworld of Ession, a world I personally cleansed of life. His entire life has been shaped by that one event, his entire reason for being molded by the death of his homeworld. He has sought my death ever since, even to the detriment of billions."

Carnifex slowly approached Ingrid, shrinking the distance between them until He was standing as close to her as she would allow. "During the Battle of Csilla, the one where the planet was ravaged by the Brotherhood, Grayson had boarded the Brotherhood's space station to try and stop their leader. That man was Darth Solipsis, another Dark Lord of the Sith, who controls the Brotherhood to this very day. Grayson confronted him on the command deck but became distracted when he learned that I was also onboard the station. Can you imagine what Grayson did then?"

He smiled at that moment, a rare occasion for one as emotionally stunted as He was. "He endeavored to join forces with Solipsis in order to destroy me. Very amusing."

Ingrid L'lerim | Cedric Grayson ​

 

[Ingrid L'lerim]

Lady Ingrid L’lerim Ragal Terassi Vandiir
Eternal Empress of the Eternal Empire, Lord Commander of the Wardens of the Shroud, Leader of the Dawn of Hope
The Red Witch, The Night Queen, Lady Stuztala, Head of the House L’lerim, CEO of the HPI Consortium, Archon of the Primyn Group​

Location: Palace
Objective II.: Downfall
Equipment: The Soulsabers (hidden) | Brynja coat | Hersir Imperial Uniform | Viper Mk. I Skinsuit | The Last Gift || Empyrean gland | OPBC-01m || ENS Crimson Empress (in space)
Writing With: Darth Carnifex | Cedric Grayson | Closed

[ Defence of Panatha ]
<"High Nelvaanian"> | ~ telepathic communication ~ ​

As was by design. To tell you the truth, she wasn't surprised. Funny, but the red-haired woman was also in a position to kill Tavlar. She never told anyone that she had sneaked into the Imperator's office to talk to him. There was no one there but them, she could have easily killed him from the shadows. Maybe the war could have ended then. It will never be revealed, forever lost in the gloom of mysteries.

"I'm not surprised. Rather, he wasn't killed at the same time as Chandra. They stayed in the same place quite a lot." she said, still without emotions.

She considered Chandra the new Palpatine, she respected Tavlar as a soldier, she was neutral towards the woman. if she had been able to feel disgust or contempt, she would certainly have felt this in the direction of the Chancellor. And the emphasis; Ingrid exactly understood what the former emperor was thinking with his words and his tone.

Every death serves a purpose…

In the real world, she was still looking at Carnifex, but in her mind she was looking at her husband. Adrian shook his head firmly. There was truth in Carnifex’s words, Ingrid became much stronger and created countless things while she was looking for ways to unite the souls of her dead husband. But she didn’t do it for power, she essentially never used her abilities, she just wanted Adrian back.

"Why did Darth Tacitus forge an alliance with you after you did this to Ession, my Lord? No, he never told me this, just how he hates and despises you." she asked; she did not know much about this period, she had no data, and ever got answers from Tacitus. In essence, Grayson had already told her more about it than the woman's own former emperor.

She didn't move as Carnifex came closer, so the man could even get so close that their bodies touched each other. When the former Emperor was close enough, the Empress felt the unmistakable metallic smell, the smell of blood; it flowed from the man. However, she did not give the slightest sign that it would bother her or the proximity of the other. In her work, she has become accustomed to getting so close to others, especially when she has to seduce them. She just moved here, pulling her blue-glowing necklace out of her neck and pulling out two lightsaber shoto hilts. Carnifex could clearly feel Darth Prospero's presence, his Force signature from the objects.

"I need to know something. My Lord, did you send him to Dantooine on that day? Did you send him to die there?" she asked coldly as she looked into the man's eyes with her own blue ones or into his mask where his eyes were supposed to be.

Throughout the man’s story, she got the answer she promised to get Kahlil Noble . Carifex was really on board. She wasn't surprised at what Grayson did. The man, on Ziost honestly said that he would even destroy Tavlar, the NIO, the GA if they deviated from the path they needed and they became tyrants. Ingrid really wasn’t surprised; she saw and lived too much already.

"I think Lord Grayson would even join forces with the Bryn’adûl to destroy you. It seems that his crusade is not Ashla’s will, but his own, with you and every member of the Zambrano family at the centre. I’m not going to give you any advice, but I think you think the same way that with this information you know, you could shatter and crush the entire Ashlan Crusade if you wanted to. What are you waiting for? Why haven't you acted yet, my Lord?" she asked.

 

[Cedric Grayson]

The information on his HUD indicated that the sensory nodes in his cybernetic limb were dormant, but he felt the quiet tingling all the same. It was not so much a painful experience as it was disturbingly banal: the minor sensation of cloth running along the flesh of his right leg, only there were no nerves to logically register the feeling. The exile huffed in quiet annoyance as he concluded that his brain, in its mortal failings, still believed there was a limb attached where there was none.

It seemed that it would take some time before his body adjusted to the damage it had sustained.

Mildly frustrated, Cedric opted for silence as his shuttle settled itself in the palace's hanger bay. He met the servants of the Eternal Empire with a bowed head, and the same muteness with which he'd regarded his escorts.

Tensions were running high on both sides, though they weighed little upon Cedric's shoulders. Officially the Crusade had come to apprehend the Zambrano family and any Sith they might have been harboring. Unofficially the situation was much the same, though calls for justice had been made throughout his host. The ritual on Korriban had failed, and while the Sith were driven out for the time being, the dark heart of the planet remained. In time, Cedric would crush it in his fist, but for now his people's need for retribution remained paramount. Some went so far as to vouch for the extermination of the Epicanthix as a people, a sentiment that Cedric did not agree with on account of the tenants of the Jedi Code, but as a man he wholly understood.

A holocaust had been visited upon the Ashlans, and the only way to make certain that would never happen again would be the complete and total liquidation of those that had orchestrated it. An ocean of Sith blood had already been spilled in the scavenging of the Sith Empire's corpse, yet still his people thirsted. Unfortunately for them, morality was paramount over certainty. The Epicanthix would live so long as Cedric held sovereignty over his legions, they were only pawns after all. Slaves to be free and shown the truth.

The true perpetrators would meet their end on the cross.

Cedric arrived in the midst of the conversation between Ingrid L'lerim and Darth Carnifex . Clad wholly in the traditional war-plate of his homeworld, his expression was hidden entirely behind the mask of golden metal that served as his visage. His presence within the Force was equally unreadable, his private feelings kept tight to his chest as he came to a halt, his head tilting back somewhat to regard the two as they each stood taller than him.

"I'm not certain I approve of your newest court jester Empress," was the exile's greeting. "But then I suppose it is your prerogative to choose what animals you bring into your home." His head bowed toward Ingrid slightly, "A pleasure nonetheless." The exile’s tone indicated anything but.

 

[Stardust Solus Skirae]

Stardust could merely watch the house Zambrano burn, it would bring her great joy to see it aflame, right with carnifex at the top of the pile. However stardust knew such judgment was unfair to those who'd never raised a blade to someone in there life, those that had barely been born and had not yet committed atrocities or may never do so. All of the universe to stardust felt different in a odd way she couldn't explain to anyone...or maybe she could...maybe not who knows!

Regardless she was here to defend house fitz-kierke, her sisters' family, her family. She didnt fight as solus, raxis, or any other clan no today she fought as a fitz-kierke on this very day. Taking a few steps forward into the picture she stood beside adenn silent and with a odd face of calm in the coming violence, a oddity given right now she would be grinned but instead her face was clear merely observing the invading force as she let a deep breath out and rubbed her chin as she watches craft moved towards the forest

hmmm...my bet is that their going to surround this city adenn

A predictable battle tactic, only thing they wouldn't know is where the first attack would come from and what the enemy had, glancing down to the city she frowned a little and then finally a smirk played across her face

hmm...so he springs the trap? Interesting..

Stardust didnt say who she was referring to out loud as she walked off to the edge of the wall and crouched

guess all we do is wait now yes?

Darth Carnifex Ingrid L'lerim Adenn Kyramud

 

[Ladybug]

Mikilanna Mihaly (Darth Kauhu)
Overseer of Science Development, Knight Warden of the Shroud

Location: Palace
Objective: Protect both the civilian population and the city itself from AC / Organize and assist evacuation.
Equipment: Dark Blessings of Kuolema (Twin Lightsabers), Feravvax XVI (Cybernetic Eyes), PITA CV1 (Cybernetic / Bionic Tail), Omni VI (Bionic Arm), Varjokävely (Battle Outfit)
Ship: Aries XIII
Tags: N/A

III Memento Mori III

Cattamascar (Royal Institute of Science), EE Space


"Run the experiments again," Director Mihaly spat, feeling as her being was enveloped by inferior minds. She knew those that worked directly with her were some of the brightest minds she manipulated to join the Royal Institute; and yet, such as times like this, she wanted to strike them down and hurl their lifeless corpses down the incinerator chute. There were always failures when dealing with science, most often outweighing the successes, but only through failed experiments did one learn from mistakes only to succeed next round. This was the mantra she painstakingly tried to incorporate in the minds of all that resided in the institute; scientists, professors, and students alike. It was an easy concept, she thought. "Wait, recalculate the parameters and algorithms in the computer. We are close to perfecting the serum, we just need to properly secure it's main function."

B.I.P.O., a prototype linguistic droid who serves the faculty of the Institute, slowly stepped into the lab quietly as a droid could, knowing if he disturbed the Director at this juncture, she would scrap him for parts. Patiently he tried to wait, but the message he was carrying for the Director was urgent and forced his programming into work. "Director Mihaly, I have an Class-6 message for you. Directly from the Empress herself." Mikilanna never stopped her work for anyone, including the Empress. She was defiant, yes, but her work was important to her; and by proxy, the Empire mostly. She respected the Empress, counting her as the only true person among the Empire she could 'trust', and the Empress never involved herself with Mikilanna's work; which made the arrangements they agreed upon work smoothly. But a Class-6 message was indeed noteworthy.

"Play message!"

Normally a Class-6 message was for the intended party's ears only, but everyone inside this particular lab where loyal to the Director. She didn't need their trust, she possessed their fear. She was a monster, through and through, and quite possibly a mad scientist; but she was fair and swift in her judgements. Listening partially as she continued her work intently, she paused only when she heard the name Zambrano. "Replay the last thirty seconds." She ignored the parts attached to protecting the civilians and organizing and assisting in their evacuation, though as a Knight Warden of the Shroud, she would be required to help. But Zambrano, that was a powerful name. Many rumors were abound surrounding that historical name; but the rumor she was concerned with was the one that aligned them with the Sith. Now, that was something she could sink her teeth into.

She hated the Sith, in spite of the dark philosophy of the Sith she followed that forged her into the creature she was, for their misguided beliefs of a unified and organized Empire. She knew and studied the ancient history of the Sith, and always found amusement in their shortcomings and failings when bound together in a single, mass blob of unity. If the Zambrano family was in trouble, then perhaps their Sith allies would come to their aid; prompting her to rid the galaxy of a few more misguided lives. "B.I.P.O., notify the hanger to have my ship made ready for departure."

Panatha (Palace)


Upon entering the Palace, she quickly assessed the situation. There was a lot of chatter being strewn about the hallowed structure. The only constant was that the civilians needed protection, evacuation, and the Royal family needed protection. Protection from what or whom was the only topic she couldn't find concrete information on. Opting to defend a wall by leaning against it, she watched as the palace guards and the stationed EE troops ran about; preparing the palace for defensive measure. As a guard rushed by, he paused briefly to look at Mikilanna; recognizing the Warden at once from previous operations. "Warden, a mandate has trickled down from the top. Wardens are to assist in defending the citizens first and foremost. The palace is under martial rule until further notice." She nodded in understanding, detached herself from the wall and exited the palace.

Outside, in the span of a few minutes, the whole scene had changed. Citizens were running about, most calling their brothers and sisters to arms whilst babbling about an invasion force, assassins, and miscreants coming to upend their way of life. This was absurd, she thought. Clearly this was some manner of ploy. Who would come to Panatha, first to hunt down the Royal Family, and second to invade the planet that was rightfully under the protection of the Eternal Empire? Mikilanna recalled the Class-6 message from the Empress, so it was obvious her concerns were not unfounded; but why now? The galaxy recently undergone a radical change with the dissolvement of the Sith operated governments and empires; so what was happening here on Panatha some new age witch hunt, or a crusade by those once oppressed to enact vengeance upon their once brutal masters? And what of the Zambrano family's role in this? That question, if it was tied to some sort of Sith cleansing, possessed an answer easily rooted out.

 

[Hasina Khaa-met]

Panatha, Within the Eternal Empire's Borders
BYOO: Serve her lord, Darth Carnifex

​

It had happened. The home of her lord had been targeted by the infidels of the Crusade. She's yet to come across them in person, but the Medjay Captain - chief among that order of assassins and death cultists that survived Ankhypt's fall to the Bryn'adul - was eager to test her mettle. But not just yet would she soak her blade in the blood of her foes. First must her guiding words from her lord come, guiding her to serve Neb-Zet's deathly will. Of course, those orders couldn't yet come, not while her lord trades words with yet another of those rulers that claim to dreams of empire among the galaxy. So for the time she remained hidden, one with the shadows of the palace, cloaked in the dark side from sight and all but the most potent of senses, until she has been called forth.

While waiting for Ingrid L'lerim to cease distracting her lord, she started to give thought to what little she had yet learned of this Cedric Grayson and his infidel army. She already knew that the Neith-following fools of the 'Jedi' were her second greatest foe in this world, but learning of his fanatical desire to crusade and destroy that which was different was... troubling, to say the least. Attacking the opponent was one thing; this man was willing to put entire worlds to the torch, from what her lord had said.

Very different for those of Neith, certainly. She'd expect herself and others of the deathly god, Neb-Zut, to perform such acts of destruction, not those Jedi. Never mind that; come what may, she'll do her holy work. She'll see that their souls shall cross the River Tpah in agony.

Though, she's growing a bit distracted by impatience. Perhaps with a bit of telepathy with her lord shall things move along.

My undying lord, I beseech you to call upon my services. What would you have your Medjay do for Neb-Zut, mighty herald?

 

[Darth Carnifex]

"Tacitus was as vacillating as he was cowardly, eager to please those who were above his station." The former Emperor of the Eternal Empire's worth was held in low estimation by the former Emperor of the Sith Empire, that of a sycophant and bootlicker. Whatever state Ingrid had brought the Eternal Empire to, it was far superior to the squalor that Tacitus had left her. It was a testament to the leader that Ingrid L'lerim was, a greater sovereign in every aspect of ruling the Eternal Empire than her predecessor.

Carnifex walked past Ingrid as she inquired about the circumstances that had led Adrian Vandiir to Dantooine that fateful day, and the position the former Emperor had in bringing it about. "Of course I sent him to Dantooine, milady, where else would I have put him? His death was unfortunate, but you yourself have avenged him." Carnifex was keenly aware of Runi Verd's killer, she was standing within arm's length. But He had no inclination to take action against Ingrid or her kin, He felt little emotional attachment to most of His family. If Runi had been better, then perhaps she would have survived rather than suffer the same fate as the one she was being killed to avenge.

"As for your confusion, it is a simple matter. The further that Grayson leads his flock down this dark path, the greater will it dominate their destiny. The Force moves darkly around a creature that is about to kill..." The last syllables echoed across the great hall as the footfalls of Cedric Grayson rang out from the entryway, a golden mask concealing his features from either of their gazes. "And the darkness lingers around this one like a burial shroud."

Carnifex turned to face the man, the difference in stature between them startling. The Dark Lord crossed both arms over His broad chest, the runic armor clinking against itself with the sudden motion. "So, you've arrived at last. The lesser son of greater sires. How many have you brought to die this time?" The jeers of the Dark Lord were delivered with a flat monotone, no emotion creeping into his voice despite the venom laced throughout each word.

"Or has the Last Knight lost their luster?"

His eyes glanced over to a darkened portion of the room, the veil of shadows lifting before His piercing sight. The voice of His faithful servant, Hasina Khaa-met, echoed across the periphery of His mind and He responded in kind. ~ Go forth and rally the Medjay, instruct them to bloody their blades on the infidel in our midst. Spare none of those who raise arms against my people, for their punishment is to be ever-lasting. ~ With His commandments given, His eyes again fixated on the Jedi Lord standing before Him.

Waiting eagerly for the fight He knew was coming.

Ingrid L'lerim | Cedric Grayson | Hasina Khaa-met ​

 

[Elani Zambrano]

​

"O blessed be the darkness that is Muurakka's shadow strewn across the galaxy. His strength lies in the warrior's blade. In our blades. We are his children. We all are. Whether the Jedi and their salves know it or not. We are all his children." Elani preached before her Murakami sisters.

Deep below the Zambrano Royal Palace, the Zambrano witch brewed. The rats were above scurrying about as she bided her time. Around her, her sisters chanted various words of magic, praying for their dark god's blessing in the battle to come. To fight on the Epicanthix homeworld is a blessing in of itself. It was here that Elani had first deciphered the voice of Murrakka and spread his word as scripture. And now, she would fight to defend her family's home against those who deny Murrakk's will.

The nerve of it all.

"Sisters. It is time. Go now. Only watch the invaders. Be my eyes and ears out there. You will know when it is the time to strike." Elani commanded.

At her word, the Murakami hastened out of the caverns to do as Elani said. Meanwhile, Elani pulled her swords from their sheathes and laid them in front of her before sitting in quiet meditation, preparing for what's to come.

Ingrid L'lerim | Darth Carnifex | Joycelyn Zambrano | Hasina Khaa-met ​

 

[Ingrid L'lerim]

Lady Ingrid L’lerim Ragal Terassi Vandiir
Eternal Empress of the Eternal Empire, Lord Commander of the Wardens of the Shroud, Leader of the Dawn of Hope
The Red Witch, The Night Queen, Lady Stuztala, Head of the House L’lerim, CEO of the HPI Consortium, Archon of the Primyn Group​

Location: Palace
Objective II.: Downfall
Equipment: The Soulsabers (hidden) | Brynja coat | Hersir Imperial Uniform | Viper Mk. I Skinsuit | The Last Gift || Empyrean gland | OPBC-01m || ENS Crimson Empress (in space)
Writing With: Darth Carnifex | Cedric Grayson | Closed

[ Defence of Panatha ]
<"High Nelvaanian"> | ~ telepathic communication ~ ​

"I would like to be more specific, my Lord. At least half of the galaxy wants his head. Including TSE remnants, most Sith and the CIS." she said calmly. Ingrid accepted the fact a long time ago, yet she was unable to betray her former ruler. Adrian never understood her loyalty as to why she could serve someone so much. Another issue is that she would probably have turned her back on the late Emperor, for the Eternal Empire. Because to her the Empire was the first, not their ruler, the Empire itself and its people.

So it was him; the only answer was a nod. Most people might have tried to kill the former emperor for it, after an emotional outburst, but Ingrid wasn't like that. She was much more in control of her feelings. Adrian’s loss, it hurt her as much as the first day, but she had already learned to endure it, it took four years, but she learned. And since the negotiations with the CIS, she has not shed any tears anymore. Outside. Inwardly she mourned in the same way, though this emptiness could now only be felt by Telis Taharin-Zambrano ; she was able to hide from everyone else, but Telis was the only Force user who was so close to her, since they spent a night and a day together.

"Avenge? I should have felt something for that. Anger, hatred. No, my Lord. Runi Verin 's death was a duty, nothing more. I have done what my people expect if a member of our clan, our family, is killed." she replied; She didn't care that Carnifex's servant was here.

Greater will. Did the man know that, according to Tacitus's teaching, the Force itself is what plays with the Force Users and the Galaxy? No, it was something she couldn't ask. Then she also felt and heard the arrival of the invited person. Ingrid turned to the approaching Crusader. She didn't even try to explain after Cedric's words. The man would not have believed the truth anyway. She put away the necklace and the two grips, then turned toward the crusader.

"Please do not play the surprised one, my Lord, all of us know this was your plan, to draw him out of hiding, Lord Grayson." she said in her cold voice. She nodded at the man too, there was respect in the gesture. " I think he was on the planet before I arrived. I expressed my disapproval of his presence when he arrived here first, and not you. Let’s just say I didn’t wait here for my first meeting with him in a situation like this. But here only I would have the right to resent anyone, Lord Grayson. Invasion? What did you think I would let you do to hurt the citizens of the Eternal Empire?" she asked. "I think you got to know me better on Ziost than that."

She paused for a few moments, then looked in one direction for a moment, feeling the presence of herself and Adrian as someone arrived. She knew who the newcomer was. She was her only "creation" whom she considered her child.

"Are you trying to influence me with my daughter from Lord Vandiir by bringing her, Eina, with you, Lord Grayson? Never mind. You can get Lord Carnifex if you want, I don't care, but not with fight, not with war. I have no connection with him, you have to defeat him in a regular duel for this, one that is used to avoid a war. I don't want to go to war with you. Yes, the Eternal Empire has Sith troubles, but it’s not the Zambrano house, but the Shadow Empire, who want to sink the entire Unknown Region into another dimension and who want to bring back to life their sith god. If you definitely want to fight the Sith, help us against the Shadow Empire, Lord Grayson, and comply with my request regarding the duel. In this case, I will not retaliate for your current attack, nor will I treat Ashlan Crusade as an enemy." she said her terms.

 

[Pietro Demici]

Pietro Demici: Ashlan Cardinal, Commander of the Holy Guard

Location: Near the palace

Engaging: Corin Autem

Loadout: lightsaber, armorweave priest's vestments

Allies: Cedric Grayson , Isla Draellix-Kobitana , Eina L'lerim-Vandiir , AC

Enemies: Darth Carnifex , Adenn Kyramud , Elani Zambrano , Hasina Khaa-met , Stardust Solus Skirae , EE, Kainate

The ritual had failed. Korriban remained stained with the stench of the Bogan, and Lord Grayson had sustained considerable injury in the wake of their failure. Word had traveled fast within Ashlan Space, telling the tale of the brave attack led by their leaders. Nevertheless, it had ended in failure. Pietro had spent the days pouring over the details of their attack on the planet, looking for an explanation. Their cause was just, and yet they were unable to cleanse the planet. Could they have stumbled, leaving a trail of missteps in their wake? No. There was only one reason that the planet still stood...

The slaves of the Bogan.

Korriban had only further fueled the fires that burned within the Crusade. More were beginning to answer their call, and many wanted justice. Everyone was looking to blame someone, but Pietro knew who to place the fault upon... Zambrano. The house had been a blight upon the galaxy for years, spreading the Bogan's miasma from world to world. It was time to put an end to it once and for all.

The cardinal looked to Eina L'lerim-Vandiir as she appeared, asking him of the Crusade's intent.

"It's simple, really. Our spies have informed us that there is a chance to put the Dark Lord down. So many slaves of darkness, converging upon this planet. The Zambranos have been left to their own devices for far too long. It is our duty to wipe this threat from the galaxy."

He turned to her as he spoke, meeting her gaze with a reassuring nod.

"We do intend to keep civilian casualties to a minimum, though should they choose to resist, then we will have no choice. We only want the Zambranos and their ilk. We are not here to commit genocide."

As the last of the Holy Guard of the Host unloaded from the dropships, Pietro looked toward the palace in the distance. Cedric had been invited by the empress, and against the cardinal's advice, their leader had decided to go alone. Pietro could sense the darkness swirling around the palace, signaling the presence of the one they came to kill.

"Lord Grayson will need our assistance, should things not go as planned. We will have to move quickly. Do you plan to join the assault?"

The Sons of Ession came next, marching in tight formation as they exited their dropships. The Crusade had brought a considerable force to bring the dreaded Zambranos to heel, and Pietro would be at the head of the charge. One of the officers approached him, holo in hand.

"Your imminence, our forces are nearly in position. Waiting on your order."

His gaze once again drifted toward the distant palace, his mind wandering until it reached a singular point of focus.

"Have the regulars maintain their course. Deploy the Sons of Ession along the line, one detachment per attack group. Whatever they have waiting for us, I want to make sure that we are prepared. Let the Grand Admiral know that we will be moving out shortly."

Today, he would give no speeches, nor offer prayers. The fires of the Ashla were already emanating from their forces like a searing ray of light. Each individual understood the stakes, and were ready to fight and die to see the day won.

 

[Stirric Vetch]

Objective 3: Blockade
Location: Panatha planetary orbit.
Fleet:
Flagship Ember's Cresent (Absolution Class Star Battlecarrier)
4x Gala Fighter MK II Squadrons
1x Luna Troop Transport Squadron
3x Savant Class MG-BDT2 Bomber Squadrons
2x Levasseur Class Corvette
5x Baron Class Escort Frigate
8x Skirmisher Class Frigate
Full complements of EE Marines and soldiers on board.

'There are no Sith in the empire'.
Stirric Vetch thought for a moment. The breif he had been sent held note of the upcoming attack on an entire planet for the sake of one family cluster who may or may not even be sympathisers. It was a wasted effort, he'd long since concluded- to risk so much- to risk destroying good relations over a hunch. A possible fiction.

Of course, there were no sith in the empire. At least as far as he knew. Save for the inevitable spies hidden throughout the network undetected via loopholes or some political protection.... And there was him.

He hated to dig up the past, about his work with the sith-what seemed like so many years ago now but could have easily been yesterday for the level of raw pain it caused him to remember. It occurred to him that perhaps the enemy already knew. They knew and were expecting his defiance. Surely that was not the case- but he found he could not shake it from his mind all the same.

As it was, Stirric foubd himself standing firm on the Bridge of the Ember's Cresent. The Zambrano family may be sith traitors but they were citizens of the empire too. That was absolute. They had chose their side like him. They weren't going to die today.

Directly across from him outside the bridge viewport, more starships began to arrive.

"Bridge officer Hallier, get me short range comms. The rest of you, set stations ready for conflict. Notify Targryn to have his pilots ready in the hanger."

A series of "Yes sir" and "acknowledged" sounded from across the bridge line. Hallier paced over. Her face, remarkably, still wearing her warm smile.

'Poor girl', Stirric thought.
'You have no idea what may come to us'.

The young woman paused on approach. It appeared as though she could tell he was deep in thought. A terrifying notion after all the talk of Sith.

"Comms are your admiral" she beamed.
"Thank you Hallier. Let's hope our foes are in the mood to talk".

Stirric held by the outgoing comm pannel and exhaled slowly. Then, at last, he spoke.
" This is Admiral Stirric Vetch of the Flagship Ember's Cresent serving in the name of the Eternal Empire. I know what brings you here and I'm afraid I cannot allow any harm to befall the Zambranos while under my protection or indeed any other time. Be forewarned, any vessels you attempt to drop to the surface will be fired upon. I repeat, should you launch vessels, they WILL be fired upon. I formally request a parley to resolve this matter as formally as possible".

Stirric thumbed the communicator to silent on his end. He had done his part for now.

All there was to do now, was wait.


SPOILER:
Stirric sent an outgoing message to all opposing fleets requesting peaceful parley.

 

[Laertia Io]

Wearing: Purified Naath Cowling (Worn over Dark Blue Jensaarai Armor)

Armed with: Fragment of Kerest (Light Blue Lightsaber)

Fragment of Sarka (Light green Light foil)

M-8 Shotgun

DC-15S

Ion Relic Pistol

Arrived in: The Blood of Kerest (Sarka Class Frigate)

Starfighter Compliment:

B6 Reproductions

Sarka Class Frigate (28, divided into four attack groups)

Group 1 Starfighter Compliment:

B-Wing E Fighters

Group 2 Starfighter Compliment:

RZ-2 A Wing

Group 3 Starfighter Compliment:

Missile Boats

Group 4 Starfighter Compliment:

Vulture Droids

To the Eternal Empress Ingrid L'lerim :

Why do you entertain any thoughts of peace with the Ashlan's? Why? I do not understand it.

Surely, the cruelty and barbarism they displayed at Ziost should have been enough of an eye opener.

If you concede, you only embolden them. Give them what they want and they will make more demands. Take it from someone who kills them, partly for being in my way, but mostly on account of their great wickedness, hiding behind the veil of justice to inflict barbarism on even the common civilian.

I have noticed you go out of your way to avoid fighting. And to some degree, I respect that about you. You're far more adept at statecraft than I. But you can't be friends with everyone. Nor should you wish to be. They come to the outer fringes of your territory with an invasion Force. If they are this bold about overkill towards only a peripheral territory, they would only get bolder, advance further, if you do not respond with deadly Force.

Eventually, they will tire of any form of appeasement from you. They'll contrive a reason to be rid of you. Heed me and act now while you are still an empress to do the acting.

---Darth Xiphos.

She had sent it while feeling lucid several hours earlier. She wasn't feeling that way at the moment. All she felt was cold.

She still wasn't really speaking. Not after learning the truth about Syd.

She sat on the bridge command, surrounded by volunteer naval crew from the CIS. The pain of what she learned on Kerest caused such pain in her emotionally that she could barely focus on fighting.

She caught herself thinking of all she had done since her war with seemingly everyone had started. She had fixed her voice, giving her the boldness to stand up to the Jedi. Then she had abandoned her when the heat ironically became too much.

She had also murdered Laertia's parents when she was a baby.

There were no words to convey just how much Xiphos wanted the master of Starlin Rand dead, along with Starlin himself. None. Xiphos wanted to scream but she had screamed so loudly and repeatedly at Kerest that she had destroyed her vocal chords. Food constantly hurt going down: So much so she had now begin to dread eating. She couldn't taste food due to her sheer emotional pain. She still hadn't fully recovered from the injuries Starlin had inflicted.

She hadn't had any contact with the Cult of The Brain Demon had in weeks. Everything had fallen silent between her and them.

"Ummm...Lady Crownwraithe?" Said a nervous CIS naval officer, for no one present knew she was Darth Xiphos. She was just a well off mercenary captain with Force Powers to them.

The fully masked Light Sith, face covered by a Cortosis weave mask that was shaped like a Cobra, turned to her.

"We've arrived at Panatha."

Xiphos nodded, forcing back the urge to start screaming again. She rose, pointed wordlessly to the B1 Pilot Droid who turned to her and conveyed Xiphos's announcement that they were going to engage The Ashlan Fleet when they tried to detain vessels. She also gave out the orders for Group Four of her Frigate Fleet to head to the battle lines of Stirric Vetch , for they were closer to his lines than other Eternal Empire ships. Her frigates began immediately transmitting friendly ID codes to the EE ships to avoid being attacked.

For now, they would do nothing. The Enemy would have to make the first move.

Xiphos sat in the captain's chair, a brooding figure feeling the constant urge to scream as loudly as possible...yet denying it.