Junction The Warlock Trial | EE & AC Junction of Bespin/Anoat and Felucia

[Pietro Demici]

Objective: convict the Sith

Tags: Ingrid L'lerim , Isla Draellix-Kobitana , Darth Carnifex

The cardinal waited patiently as the Hutt calibrated his device, taking that time to study the Dark Lord more. The man seemed quite unperturbed, despite being in such a holy place of the Light. It would be something to note, though Pietro had faith that Ashla would act in their favor. Pietro could feel the frustration build within him as the Hutt relayed the question to the court. No one assumed this would be a simple guilty plea, and Pietro certainly did not expect a Sith to understand. They were fundamentally different, he and Carnifex, two individuals on opposite sides of the spectrum. There would be no common ground found here, no matter what was said within these walls.

Pietro clicked his tongue behind his teeth, leaning in as he stared at the Hutt with his cold, hardened gaze.

"I must remind the counsel that this court is not the one on trial right now. You and your master would do well to remember that."

A brief paused followed as he shot a quick look to Carnifex.

"If you must know, it is the laws of man, of nature, of Ashla herself that you violate. The people of this planet and countless others have suffered due to your actions, and there is no action without consequence."

Turning his attention back toward the Hutt, Pietro leaned back into his seat, his frustration quelled for the moment. He was known to be a fiery individual, giving impassioned sermons from a podium in front of a holoprojector. The cardinal had spent many years honing his political skills in an effort to better serve, but despite all of his efforts, that fire still remained within. Despite this, he managed to keep his tone reserved for now.

"Perhaps your client wishes to debate philosophy, but we did not gather to mince words about the minutia of beliefs."

This was going to be tedious, but Pietro kept reminding himself that it would be worth it in the end.

 

[Heinrich Faust]

Tags: Geiseric , Eina L'lerim-Vandiir

As the pair spoke with Eina, she was able to calm herself, though something was clearly still eating at her. Heinrich was thankful for Geiseric's presence, as there were few that could comfort the Valkyrja as well as him. Heinrich turned toward the two of them as Geiseric spoke of the matter of Eina's capture at the hands of the eldritch entity, offering a small, reassuring smile.

"Indeed. Despite the difficulties along the way, it's something we would gladly do again. I'm sure Gei and the others would agree as well. That man up there is a burden on the entire galaxy, upon the Force itself. A burden that will soon be lifted."

His gaze shifted to Carnifex as he spoke. The man had been so still... so silent... in truth, it made Heinrich feel a bit uncomfortable. The man had either already accepted fate, or he had no intention of facing the gallows. It was a coin toss, and Heinrich didn't much favor fifty fifty odds.

"This trial isn't like that of a common criminal. It is a formality, more than anything. The cardinal has already made up his mind, and I can't say that I blame him. That being said... if it were up to me, he would already be dead."

The trial wasn't solely Demici's idea; there were many among the Ashlan government that wanted to make a show of his capture and inevitable execution. Many within the Crusade's ranks came from worlds ravaged by the Sith, and many by Carnifex's own doing. Heinrich understood their desire to put the man on display as if he were a captured beast, but it was not a decision that the Blade of Ession felt was wise.

"Order is of paramount importance, as is justice. The cardinal, however, is a fan of the pageantry of it all. He wants to make it clear that we put him down... perhaps more than he should."

Heinrich often felt at odds with Pietro, as the man was the truest form of Ashlan purist. Though Heinrich was devoted to his faith, he often wondered if the cardinal's views got in the way of true progress. For the time being, however, he would leave his more serious reservations at the door, settling for the slight occasional jab out of earshot of Demici and his more close followers.

 

[Ingrid L'lerim]

Lady Ingrid L’lerim Ragal Terassi Vandiir
Eternal Empress of the Eternal Empire, Lord Commander of the Wardens of the Shroud, Archon of the Primyn Group
Empress of Terraris, Supreme Commander of the Terraris Command, Head of the House L’lerim, CEO of the HPI Consortium​

Objective I.: To sentence Carnifex to death
Location: Courtroom, inside the bulding.
Equipment: The Soulsabers (hidden) | Hersir Imperial Uniform | Viper Mk. I Skinsuit | The Last Gift || Empyrean gland | OPBC-01m || ENS Crimson Empress (in space)
Writing With: Pietro Demici | Darth Carnifex | Open
Tags: Isla Draellix-Kobitana | Hi'los Krai | Open

[ Deutschland ]
<"High Nelvaanian"> | ~ telepathic communication ~ | << comm. channel >> ​

Ingrid was sure Carnifex and his lawyer would do everything they could to make the trial a laughing stock. The Empress was watching the Hutt for a moment. She understood the words even without the translation. However, no expression was visible on the woman's face. The red-haired woman expected this; yes. However, apparently the cardinal was less prepared for such a thing than the woman. Which, however, was not good. She immediately felt restless and nervous from the direction of the man.

~ Please, Cardinal, try to calm down! This is exactly what they want to achieve, try not to give them this pleasure! ~ her voice was not mocking this time either, but struck an unusual, soothing tone from her. Similar to when Eina reassures others, only here kindness was not present, but military coldness, ice cold sobriety.

Ingrid was also at home in politics, diplomacy; as an agent and spy, she needed it. Last but not least, she also benefited greatly from it when her political career began. In the galaxy, the woman was the only one who was able to win at the negotiating table over the Sith Empire. Everyone else failed. That's why the end of the war was what it was. The Empress was probably at least as deadly with her words as she was with her blades.

She hadn't spoken yet, waiting for the cardinal to finish what he wanted to say. Although she wasn't happy that the man couldn't restrain herself. He should have shown more self-control. It is a fact that in any other situation she would have been amused by the situation and Demici’s words. But the current one was not amongst those situations. Now the cardinal is lost, the Hutt and probably Carnifex have also found a way to grab him. He was at a disadvantage.

Even such small nuances were striking to her. When she had to work in the field her life depended on that to recognize these. It was lucky the cardinal wasn't alone here, but Ingrid was with him. She looked at Hutt, then spoke.

"You and your client, like those in the room, received the indictment weeks ago, with the full detailed criminal records. If you, Mr. Qal, have not informed your client or you have not read it... I have to say, Lord Carnifex could have chosen a better, more prepared lawyer." she said in an ice-cold voice.

Although the words were mocking, it was not heard in her voice.

"The request is rejected by the court!" she replied; the role of judge was not unknown to the woman, and at home she often had such a task, after all she was the Empress and the commander-in-chief of the army and fleet; albeit at home mainly in a court-martial. "Keep going!"

The show continues…

 

[Eina L'lerim-Vandiir]

Lady Eina L'lerim-Vandiir
The First and the Light of Ashla
Heiress and Princess of the Eternal Empire and Terraris; Angelic Mascot and Representative of the Ashlan Crusade
Eternal Empire's Ambassador to the Ashlan Crusade; Matriarch of the Valkyrja; Leader of Sanctuary and the Fjölkyngi Smiđr Guild​

Objective I.: Try to not panic.
Location: Courtroom, inside the building.
Equipment: Elegant Attire || Ljósspjót (spear) || Empyrean gland | OPBC-01m || Current appearance
Writing With: Heinrich Faust | Geiseric | Darth Carnifex
Tags: Isla Draellix-Kobitana | Pietro Demici | Hi'los Krai | Open

[ Empire Forever ]
<"High Nelvaanian"> | ~ telepathic communication ~ | << comm. channel >> ​

The way Gei held her a little tighter was a very good feeling. For a moment, she placed one hand on the man's chest as she leaned gently against the man. Her hand was just above the man's heart to feel its rhythm, which was so reassuring to her. She liked to lie down at night with her head on the man's chest; to listen to his breathing, his heartbeat, the life that came from him. All this filled her with infinite peace and safety, although she no longer needed sleep, since she was better again. After all, she knew that Gei was there and she was not alone in the world.

"I still understand why Mother… the Empress brought him here. But not that, why uncle Pietro, or Lord Grayson weren't to execute him in silence. Do they want to set an example for the other Sith?" it was more of a military than a political thing, so Eina understood and saw, experienced it from the demons.

She was grateful to both men for trying to reassure her. Although Eina still didn’t understand human behaviour so much as to know, Gei’s mention of her courtesy was just a humorous remark, or so he tried to divert the conversation about it. In any case, perhaps that is why she answered again completely honestly; true, it was her custom.

"It wasn't up to me, I wasn't conscious, the parasite and the eldritch controlled my body…" she replied to Gei. "I mainly thought about my behaviour, that it’s still not like it used to be… and sometimes it’s harder to control my feelings like before." she said in a little confused voice.

Yes, it bothered her too and many times it made it worse because she tried in vain and only got worried about it. Eina nodded at both men's words. She also looked at Carnifex; she was still feeling bad. She knew her mother would almost be killed by the place, but Carnifex didn't even react as if the Nexus had an effect on him. Nor did it improve that Valkyrja had a bad feeling about today. It did not pass, even though her calm had returned. She did not know the behaviour of humans, but she recognised a bored predator. She has seen this many-many times in Netherworld as well.

"He's just toying with them, with us. Like a predator. The aura that surrounds him is very dark and strong. As if suppressing the power and light of the Crown of Ashla… Mother feels it even under the crystal's influence and she is in pain. But he doesn't… There's no sign of Nexus influencing his aura. The Hutt, yes, he's tense about it, I feel and see. Uncle Pietro is tense too… at least according to his aura."

She listened intently again to both men's words, then nodded.

"To be honest, I can almost wait for the glorious knight to arrive at the culmination of the trial and behead the monster or dragon. Literally…" she smiled. She imagined for a moment that Lord Grayson would indeed come in and he would execute the judgement.

She tried to divert her thoughts to a slightly more pleasant subject. Which, thanks to Gei’s arm around her shoulders and thanks to hear and feel his heartbeat, wasn’t that hard.

"Hei, since we haven't been here in a long time, I mean Gei haven't, would you like to come over to us and talk sometime? If Gei doesn't mind it either." she asked in a whisper, looking at both men questioningly, smiling kindly.

 

[Darth Carnifex]

The Hutt was undeterred. He did not bristle, he did not flinch, at the outbursts from the judges. He simply moved to the side of the defense table, cane tapping the floor periodically as he slithered forward a few feet. The whole atmosphere of the trial had quickly metamorphosized from a sober affair to something more closely resembling a carnival. The Ashlan Crusade was eager for blood, that much was obvious to anyone with a functioning pair (or more) of ocular organs. Both Khinu Vosadii Qal and Dark Carnifex were well-aware that the outcome of the trial had already been predetermined, a process that was commonplace in the Sith Empire where the judicial system was more or less a formality to give their harsh sentencing a veneer of legitimacy.

The defense's strategy for this trial was not to overturn the court's predetermined decision but to obfuscate and undermine their entire legal authority. Khinu Vosadii Qal was a renowned legal scholar despite the bigotry he suffered at the hands of Human and Human-adjacent species, he would not be cowed by thinly veiled insults. "Cay haku pawa doth bo kogatka, Kaine Zambrano, Kouuice Lorda dee Beh, Bahpawuapt- Lorda dee Bakenu, Kohkaua dee Konbouaheon, naa?" A few seconds later, "By what power is his majesty, Kaine Zambrano, Dark Lord of the Sith, Arch-Lord of the Reach, Hammer of the Mandalorians, called?"

Khinu Vosadii Qal moved from the side of the defense table to in front of it, holding up his right hand to signal that he had not finished speaking. "Cay haku phiha babakahekoh doth bu Kouoioy Masnatkha, Kaine Zambrano, Chahsonh dee Bonpke bpheda, Dokkeou dee Lhonu Kantkhieth, Yahauba dee Kouuiceza, naa bai poupiua?" The translation followed, "By what legal authority is the Munificent Sovereign, Kaine Zambrano, Guardian of the Scriptures, Scion of the Great Teachers, Herald of the Eclipse, called to account?"

He then allowed the accusers to respond.

Ingrid L'lerim | Eina L'lerim-Vandiir | Isla Draellix-Kobitana | Geiseric
Pietro Demici | Hi'los Krai | Heinrich Faust | Asaaj En Kelsani ​

 

[Isla Draellix-Kobitana]

Location: The court room
Objective: Observe justice
Tags:
Ingrid L'lerim Pietro Demici Darth Carnifex Eina L'lerim-Vandiir Heinrich Faust Geiseric

Spoiler: Isla's Personal Gear

Admiral's Sabre
Ashlan Rosary
Viper Skin Suit under uniform
Personal guard of Ashlan Praetorian droids
Overseer Biochip OPBC-01a

​

Isla listened to the trial and wondered whatever happened to "to dangerous to be left alive" she knew the trials outcome was already fairly certain, but every second he was alive was a second he could plot his escape. Isla was one of the most moderate of the Ashlan High command, but even she could not see and reason for him to breathe another breath.

A silent ping chimed inside her head, from the chief of local police <<Prime Minister, we have encountered a warehouse, several dozen Sith sympathisers had barricaded themselves in and are waving placards. Request permission for lethal force>> Isla gave a momentary shocked look as her eyes widened. <<What? No! who is this?>> she responded via her biochip <<You need to listen to what you just told me, they are waving placards? Not shooting? Well, kick the door in and make some arrests. If the door is too barred, have a Sister drive a tank through the walls and drop a null burst on them. Why do you think we bought those Riot control tanks?>> Ashla why are you punishing me? She thought to herself as she rubbed herself, was it the Biochip giving her the headaches or just the fact this was the third call to her about specific operational matters. She didn't mind the responsibility, that didn't phase her, but Ession was a headache. The population of this ecumanoplis was huge so they couldn't take over it without finding and adopting local Ashlan supporting units, seeing as the planet was Sith so long, these units were not all at full strength and some of them were barely competent.

<<situation resolved prime minister.... er.. your strategy worked.>> she just acknowledged the report and flagged the send ID to face her wrath.

Why couldn't she just sit and enjoy history on the making.

​

​

​

 

[Ivixa Nera'kas]

Location: Cathedral - Ession
Allies: EE ( Ingrid L'lerim Asaaj En Kelsani Hi'los Krai ) │ AC ( Eina L'lerim-Vandiir Geiseric Isla Draellix-Kobitana Pietro Demici Heinrich Faust )
Enemies: Sith ( Darth Carnifex )

A few of the galaxy’s most powerful individuals, all under one roof.

While Ivixa was not one of that number, she was among them, breathing the same air and occupying the same point in space and time. So often had she consorted with such demigods and goddesses, that the diminutive Special Agent was reticent regarding the entire affair. And yet, in spite of her lack of Force-sensitivity, she could not deny the sensation of unnatural energy that lingered in the air around the Black Iron Sith’ari. The Asa’nyx could only hope that she wouldn’t find herself caught in a battle between two of the most powerful beings in the galaxy, but on today of all days, that outcome was very much a possibility.

As for Carnifex himself, in truth, Ivixa had little connection to the demigod and his long list of crimes against sapient life. Recent days and weeks had seen the fall of a number of galactic powers, including the Confederacy of Independent Systems, the same nation that had annihilated H.O.P.E. In the days before, that had weighed more on her mind than the coming execution of Darth Carnifex. The fall of the nation responsible for the genocide of her race, the Asa’nyx, pleased her. Nevertheless, it did not sate Ivixa’s desire to exact revenge of her own, to bleed their people as they had bled hers, and yet more.

Having heard of the Kainate’s recent attack on the former heart of the Confederacy, Geonosis, as she watched the trial from the back of the cathedral, Ivixa silently contemplated if Carnifex could have offered her that revenge.

Spoiler: Loadout

• Ivixa’s Phase II “Glitter Ghost” Sniper Armor
  • Gauntlets
    
    • FAE/M-02 Energized Gauntlet Vibroblade - L/R
  • Energy Shield
    
    • Phase III “Force Avenger” Energy Shield
  • Undersuit
    
    • UL-14 “Virtus” Class Underlay
• X8 “Gambit” Elite Disruptor Pistol

 

[Trinity Harris]

Spoiler: Equipment and links

Riding: Phantom
Accompanied by: Plushee Companion Droid
Wearing: Guarderma Bio-suit
Ship: Luminary class light explorer exchanging crew space for biolabs

Location: Felucia
Objective: investigate clone war era military base
Tags: Open

Most people would have said that the journey on the crawler was uneventful, but not Trinity, she sat in awe of her surroundings taking pictures and short videos of unusual specimens. They had to divert due to a group of rare ambulatory fungi that were crossing its path, with a speed of less then a 40cm per second it might have taken a while for the Bantha sized fungus to pass.

After just over an hour on the crawler they arrived at the base, and the soldiers set up a winch powered elevator system to get Trinity and her gear up there. As she waited, Trinity gently ran her hand over a large flat turquoise coloured plant, topped with fur that looked almost like mink. As she rang her hand, small cells discharged electricity in tiny arcs at her hand and the fur changed to a darker greenhouse for a few seconds. The Current was no threat to her, it was meant to kill insects, but the effect was beautiful in the dim jungle light. Small black tentacle like fronds reached towards her hand through the fur, instinctively trying to collect whatever insect it thought Trinity was. "when you are done stroking the bushes we are ready for you Dr. Harris" one of the squad laughed and called her over to the base of the escalator. "Roger! On my way," she took one last picture of the Aqua and green plant before joining them.

The escalator wire was almost fun, if it didn't wobble and spin as the narrow pipe with feet and hand holds zipped up the supporting cable. She scrambled up onto the platform where the soldiers were. It was in a better state than she expected. This was once a landing pad for some kind of troop lifter, but the vessels had been removed at the end of the war she assumed. The original colour of the platform, a tan colour was only visible when the soldiers moved crates out of the way to access the door. The rest had faded in the sunlight to almost bone in colour.

Dark green vines ran across the pad and Trinity scanned them, interesting, morsu viridis vitis, a specimen of quite an age, must be catching large prey up on this... "STOP!!"she shouted at the soldiers as they approached an open doorway, flanked with what looked like large pink fleshy flower petals which glistened with moisture, at the top of the doorway was a large brown bud with leaves around it. "step away from that opening now! quickly!"

The pair stepped back just in time for what could only be described as a secondary mouth, the sized of a man, reached out of the doorway and opened, trying to get the closest soldier. The bud above it opened up reviewing a yellow compound eye. The ambush predator snarled hungrily, being deprived of its kill, as it made a futile snapping motion. Had the soldier been a foot further forward, he would now be entombed for digestion.

Trinity breathed a sigh that she may have to destroy this beautiful plant.

 

[Sisserith]

Location: Sewers, Main City - Ession
Allies: Sith ( Darth Carnifex )
Enemies: EE ( Ladybug ) │ AC
Direct Engagement: Open!

High-pitched, cackling laughter echoed ominously throughout the sewers.

Ten pairs of glowing eyes illuminated the darkness, their diminutive forms bathed in shadow as the creatures made their way through the network of sewers leading into the city, navigating via intelligence from the era of Sith rule over the planet, before the collapse of the Empire. The Seseli raiders had lurked in the darkness for many days now, and yet, even here, the effects of that grotesquely incandescent vergence could still be felt. Its mild, yet persistent sapping effect on their constitutions had forced the dark-purified creatures to conserve their energy. The urge to kidnap a sapient and cannibalize them for energy had been overwhelming, but they were under strict orders to hold station, until the day of the trial.

Now, they could finally break their fast.

And Azera was hungry.

Having exhausted her supply of Cozmic Crash Vanilla many days before, the diminutive Sithspawn was twitchy with bloodthirst and voracious mania. She could eat anything. As such, when her hypersensitive nostrils caught a whiff of frog, Azera crept towards it, staying low and out of the water, until…

Her vibroblade sprang forth from her gauntlet to impale the squealing creature through its belly. A wicked, high-pitched giggle escaped from Azera’s lips as her prey squirmed and squeaked itself ragged before expiring. Then, the Seseli popped the amphibian into her mouth, sharp teeth chomping through its flesh before it went down her throat with a sharp gulp.

“Ahhh!”

Continuing through the sewers, smells of both a rancid and delectable nature began to assail Azera’s nostrils as the small group of Sithspawn moved deeper into the city. The others began to catch prey of their own, ranging from rats, frogs, and even a mangy dog. All the while, Azera was still on the hunt for prey and food, knowing that it wouldn’t be long before the trial was underway. She would need her strength in order to fight.

Then suddenly, the note of something sweet caught her nostrils, her luminescent cyan eyes going wide in response.

While the others stopped to feast on their prey, Azera decided to follow the scent. It led her into a side passage of the sewer, which brought more smells to her nose, those of civilization, sapient beings, yet more food. She continued on, before taking a ladder up, which led her to a closed grate. Fortunately, it was little trouble cutting through it with her vibroblade, since the metal was rusted and old. Then, reaching a maintenance area, Azera continued to follow the pungent smell, up until she arrived at her destination, which was bathed in neon red lights and heat.

A line of vending machines.

They were veritable shrines of food, one full of cold beverages, including stocks of Cozmic Crash Vanilla, and the other hot, loaded with Boorka Churros, Vader Cookies, Steak Frites, Gardulla Breadsticks, Souls Brothers Burgers, and yet more. Seeing this, the Azera didn’t hesitate. A frenzied expression borne across her pink features, the diminutive Sesli broke into the vending machines via her multi-slice tool, the doors opening before her eyes as she began to furiously stuff churros, cookies, burgers, frites, and sugar-laden Cozmic Vanillas into her pack.

Then, with a high-pitched giggle on her lips, Azera slinked back into the sewers to enjoy her meal before the true feast began.

Spoiler: Loadout

• DS-201 'Hoplite' Light Combat Armor - Huntress-pattern
  
  • Azera’s Interceptor Gauntlets
    
    • Azera’s Hybrid WESTAR-34 (2) - L
    • Azera’s Hybrid WESTAR-34 (2) - R
  • Energy Shield
    
    • Phase III “Force Avenger” Energy Shield
  • Utility
    
    • FAE/C-05 Infiltration Suite
• Class-A Thermal Detonator (2)
• Vape Charge (2)

 

[Pietro Demici]

Objective: convict the Sith

Tags: Ingrid L'lerim , Isla Draellix-Kobitana , Darth Carnifex

Pietro's foot began to tap slowly as he listened to Ingrid's words. She was known for being an incredibly skilled politician, and it was certainly showing here. Pietro was surprised, as one does not maintain the role of empress without picking up such skills along the way. Though the cardinal still didn't trust Ingrid, he found her logic to be sound nonetheless. His tapping stopped, and he let out a deep breath. He wanted this execution to happen sooner rather than later, and in order to do that, he would have to remain calm.

~Yes, you are quite right.~

Telling the empress that she was right didn't sit well with Pietro. His stubbornness was continuing to prove its endless grip over him, though Pietro would simply call it being resolute. His faith was both weapon and shield, and as such, the man felt as certain as ever. Yet, he would play the game of politics, for now. After all, this was meant to show the merits of the Ashlan judicial system, even if many had already made up their minds about Carnifex.

He patiently listened to the Hutt ask question after question, taking note of Carnifex's movements as the lawyer spoke. The man was still as a stone, revealing little as he waited in silence. Something about it seemed off, but Pietro shrugged it off as the usually unsettling presence of the Bogan. He finally turned his attention back to Qal as the Hutt finished speaking.

"As the Eternal Empress has stated, you have already received the indictment. Perhaps you could tell us, counsel, by what legal authority Darth Carnifex has been called to account."

There were mental games afoot here, that was plain enough to see. The Hutt was fishing for something, though the cardinal was unsure what it may be. Perhaps he was trying to goad them into making a mistake, just as Ingrid had presumed. Pietro knew enough of the Hutt to know he was no fool... but what was his game?

 

[Ingrid L'lerim]

Lady Ingrid L’lerim Ragal Terassi Vandiir
Eternal Empress of the Eternal Empire, Lord Commander of the Wardens of the Shroud, Archon of the Primyn Group
Empress of Terraris, Supreme Commander of the Terraris Command, Head of the House L’lerim, CEO of the HPI Consortium​

Objective I.: To sentence Carnifex to death
Location: Courtroom, inside the bulding.
Equipment: The Soulsabers (hidden) | Hersir Imperial Uniform | Viper Mk. I Skinsuit | The Last Gift || Empyrean gland | OPBC-01m || ENS Crimson Empress (in space)
Writing With: Pietro Demici | Darth Carnifex | Open
Tags: Isla Draellix-Kobitana | Hi'los Krai | Ivixa Nera'kas | Open

[ Deutschland ]
<"High Nelvaanian"> | ~ telepathic communication ~ | << comm. channel >> ​

Ingrid heard as Pietro's foot began to tap slowly, but no one could see that she was aware of it all, she hid it. The Empress was still watching Carnifex and Hutt, as if there was no interlude in the background. Fortunately, she was able to communicate telepathically with the cardinal; all of which made the situation easier and no one could really perceive or read it from their minds. She still felt the cardinal's frustration, but she didn't know if the situation was causing it or the fact that he had to agree with the woman.

The red-haired woman looked at Hutt completely when Qal spoke again. By now, it was quite clear that they were just playing with them. If this event hadn’t been so significant, she would probably laugh at this. Because she had to admit that they did very well, what they did. Additional questions were included in the indictment as before.

Now she barely noticeably nodded to Demici's words, that response now much better than before. Yes, it didn't have that thoughtlessness in the answer now. It was a more thoughtful one now and a great repost. Ingrid waited a few more moments, but before Hutt could respond, she even had a comment.

"But if you wish, Mr. Qal, the guards will escort you and your client back to the former room and you'll be able to follow the trial on a holoprojector. In that room, there will certainly be time to study the indictment further." she said, still emotionless but courteous; strongly suggesting that their presence at the trial is not necessary.

The Empress paused for a moment; of course, there was one more thing left before the Hutt could answer the words. Meanwhile, Ingrid looked unnoticed through those in the room. On the members of both factions, her daughter, Lord Geiseric, and Lord Faust who were nearby to Eina. She finally turned her full attention back to the accused and his lawyer, and finally spoke.

"You can respond to Lord Demici's words and the suggestion I have outlined, Mr. Qal." she said in the end.

The show continues…

 

[Darth Carnifex]

A brief glimmer of mischievous light flashed across the Dark Lord's eyes, vanishing as quickly as it had appeared. The Hutt turned to look back at the Dark Lord, a glance of understanding passing between them before the Hutt turned away. He slithered a foot forward, coming right on the edge of where it was acceptable to stand before he had to request permission to approach. The entire trial up to this point had been highly unorthodox, unlike any legal proceeding that the Hutt had participated in. But he held no illusions that the Ashlan court would vigorously uphold the statute of proximity to the judge, with violence no doubt.

But no, the Hutt would not trespass on the judge's sacred bench today. Instead, he waited a moment for things to quiet down in the court and proceeding to speak once they had. "Bo katka saconba jobakee bu koudaniaua-anka dee bacenbie bai sawanba twa piumesa." "«Spoken in Huttese: One must question aloud the reluctance of the court to defend their accusations.»" The Hutt gestured from the bench to the assembled witnesses.

"Um jeejee tee dotke hecaseu bai pim nallya mee saconba du moova, mee Yanay. Bu Kouuice Lorda dee Beh mapanot nobata babakahekoh um Bo chamy, Goo doth neu bai nobata bacenbie see jaha du tah danko mo bu bapionh. Cuee, jot fa doth bla da bu pheciua ahsonepa ana bocoee don bu benbepoka bla peee bu Ashlan Philceueh doth ba kouuaze batacduee, adgapka bai bu cuane cin see Beh jaha biw bu masiuoy dee Paconba see Beh Bimahasag. Bu Kouuice Lorda, coo gee beu du bakath dee Philceueh baa mee vea pheca, gee saphaka da bu Philceueh doth bai doth hiee seteu an juju kantkesonh adgapka bai bu cuane cin see Bo riha. Juju nouay doth bai doth doppomka cay bu dotmheca, juju hanaee pauapka, an juju sascoha doumaueh. See tee, bu pheciua donkhamhan bla peee bu Ashlan Philceueh hatkocanh vat bai dopyetka. Heee cohai bu cohai dee veamaie Kouuice Lorda, Koose see Choiala, an Masnatkha chalemee."

"«Spoken in Huttese: But we are not terrified to answer your questions in turn, your Honor. The Dark Lord of the Sith recognizes no authority but His own, He is beholden to no court of law in this world or the next. Furthermore, let it be known that the criminals organizing themselves into the syndicate known as the Ashlan Crusade is an illegal assembly, subject to the full penalty of Sith law under the statutes of the Mandate of Sith Supremacy. The Dark Lord, who has sat in witness of the Crusade's many appalling crimes, has decreed that the Crusade is to be immediately disbanded and its ringleaders subject to the full penalty of His judgment. Its assets are to be seized by the state, its holdings nationalized, and its doctrines outlawed. Henceforth, the criminal enterprise known as the Ashlan Crusade will cease to exist. Thus spoke the word of the almighty Dark Lord, Bringer of Justice, and Sovereign above all.»"

Undoubtedly constructed to cause outrage, disbelief, and full-blown derision, the Hutt's words were purposefully inflammatory. It did not matter if the court believed to accepted his words, which they would assuredly not, the fact that they had been spoken at all to an entire room of witnesses was enough. The Hutt did little else but stand there, his eyes closed, as he gripped his cane between both of his hands and calmly waited.

All the while, the shadow behind the Dark Lord.

And it grew.

And it grew.

Ingrid L'lerim | Eina L'lerim-Vandiir | Isla Draellix-Kobitana | Geiseric
Pietro Demici | Hi'los Krai | Heinrich Faust | Asaaj En Kelsani ​

 

[Zolasha Tyrin]

The Warlock Trial
​

Equipment: In Bio
Tag: Hanaya Enzar

Flower. Hanaya seemed to have taken note that the word got to Zolasha. It struck a cord with her, and she couldn't shake the warm feelings it gave her. The Goddess inquired about where they might travel to, and she wasn't sure where she desired to go. Part of her long to return to her home, or what was left of it. Though, perhaps that wouldn't be the best. Feeling an item come into contract with her hand. Looking down, she found the holopad, and smiled slightly at the fact the Goddess. Had she taken time to plot out a journey for them?

How thoughtful, but for a goddess, it was perhaps necessary for her to be so generous.

Zolasha was undeserving of such affections. If only the goddess knew.

"We had much peace here. The wars came for us of course, but we could hide. My people are best at hiding. Perhaps I can show you some day." She mused, turning to the goddess. "One needs to love the land, to receive that love in turn, goddess. Become part of the world in live, or oppose it and parish. So few understand, yes?" Offering her hand to the four armed woman, Zolasha beckoned forward.

There would be much learning this day.

 

[Lana]

.​

The Warlock Trial​

​

Tag: Anashja Tal​

​

Her mind had been a rather busy mess as of late. Perhaps from her romantic encounters with Sophia Bergen , or maybe even her adventures with Mathieu Brion . Regardless, Lana was glad to be beside her favorite, Togruta, jedi, mandalorian, best friend; given she only had the one, it was pretty easy to keep such a length title. Arms folded behind her back, Lana hummed the simple song her mother had taught her, and was very much amused to find Ana's son joining her with the tune.​

​

It was the tale of the willow maiden, who's beauty entranced every traveler who passed her, and though they begged her to come with them, her love for the wilds was the only thing that kept her alive. So, of course, some jealous man came along and cut her willow tree down, and killed her in the process. A classic love story. Least, that's how her mother depicted it. Lana never got why the man had to cut the tree down when he could have just lived in the forest with the woman, but she suspected in the spin off song the man was terrified of the woods. That of course brought forth it's own issues into the story, but now she was just getting off track. Right now, Ana was talking about serious things, so Lana directed her attention to booting up her listening ears.​

​

Arms linked as they walked, Lana was hesitant to tell her friend how super pregnant she looked, but she figured Ana was aware of that. "It is pretty here, but there's something amiss that I can't quite shake." She could feel it in the air, like a storm that was gathering, but rather than rain, it was like...a fog that threatened to form into a hurricane. Yes, that wasn't how weather worked, but it was a feeling that Lana just couldn't shake. "Still, I'm glad you invited me here! It's nice to be able to run around with a master to smack me over the head. That stuff hurts."​

​

Wasn't that the truth.​

 

[Ladybug]

Mikilanna Mihaly (Darth Kauhu) - Overseer of Science Development, Director of The Royal Institute of Science

Location: Outside the Building, Ready in Defense
Equipment: Dark Blessings of Kuolema (Twin Lightsabers), Feravvax XVI (Cybernetic Eyes), PITA CV1 (Cybernetic / Bionic Tail), Omni VI (Bionic Arm), Varjokävely (Battle Outfit)
Beasts: The Mortem Magistri x20
Tags: Azera

Wave after wave of Sith Loyalists tried desperately to break the defenses outside the courthouse; and wave after wave had been repelled, but at a cost. Eternal soldiers and their Ashlan allies were suffering greatly, the numbers thinning in an alarming rate. To this point, it was only Loyalists throwing themselves on the proverbial sword, sacrificing themselves to weaken their enemy's strength until the ranks of the Sith Order could arrive. The fighting eventually moved from the courthouse, whilst the EE-Ashlan coalition attempted to set up a buffering perimeter between themselves and those held back to defend the courthouse.

Staff-like weapon in her hand, she twirled and pummeled the enemy; whilst standing staunch among the coalition. Three of the five abominations brought out in the street lanes laid dead, along with the corpses of the dead from both participating parties. They were losing, she knew this, and the enemy's number seemed to be legion. An advantage, even a temporary one, was hopeful; and calling upon the dark side, knowing she was going to be wracked with pain momentarily due to the light side Force Nexus, she threw an illusionary spell of black, smokey mist that engulfed the entire make-shift war zone. Her knees buckled, slightly, and she was able to recover; using the pain to fuel her dark emotions. The illusion turned the tide, as the two remaining Mortem Magistri, who seemed unaffected by the mist: and couldn't fixate on the source of the Force energy used to fabricate the illusionary ruse due to the strong presence of the planetary Force Nexus tore into the remaining forces. Joined shortly by the coalition once the mist began to disperse.

It was then, in the worst moment of time, that the first presence of the Sith Order appeared. The trio tore into the exhausted remaining forces, killing one beast, gravely wounding the other, until they drove the joint forces back. All the while, Mikilanna watched on, staring and barring her feline canines. Their arrival facilitated an anger inside her that wrapped, entwined, and coiled through entire existence. Her gaze, her focus, and her passion to destroy the Sith culminated to the boiling point, that these three would be the example. Dropping the crude weapon, Director Mihaly slowly walked toward the Sith, her eyes never waning. In turn they saw her and charged to strike down the defenseless woman.

A mere flick of her hand, and a powerful ball of energy struck the ground in front of the trio, knocking them collectively onto the litter-street pavement. Siezing her advantage, catching the trio unaware of who she was, she gripped one through the Force, and slid him toward the wounded beast, who subsequently snapped down on the Sith's head, crushing bone and expelling brain matter, blood, and bone fragments. Now, outstretching both her hands, again she gripped the two Sith, by their throats and began to raise them into the air whilst removing their oxygen supply from slowly collapsing tracheas.

"How unfortunate you have travelled great distances to stay the executioner's hand of your Master, slaves," her words spilling forth with venomous malice whilst continuously elevating them higher, "Only to fail in your noble and honorable quest. Your Master will die, never knowing the sacrifices taken by you to save him. And when he is dead, slaves, know this: his name will be nothing more than a footnote in the Lore of the Sith, his name will be forgotten, and his legacy will quietly drift away into the horizon like the granulated sands of Korriban."

Turning her back on the dangling duo, she smiled into the eyes of the dying beast and slammed the two Sith face first on to the pavement with so much force, their deaths were instantaneous.

 

[Thrask]

Location: Courtroom
Objective: Stand guard and witness the trial
Equipment: Dual Black Sabers (Sheathed and resting at his hip) | Warden Armor (see PFP)
Tag: Ingrid L'lerim Eina L'lerim-Vandiir Isla Draellix-Kobitana Geiseric Pietro Demici Hi'los Krai Heinrich Faust Asaaj En Kelsani

It had taken some time, but finally, he arrived.

Slowly, the Lord Commander walked in his white robes, the metal mask covering his face to maintain the anonymity that the Wardens had. It was important that he made a presence today, especially with the potential trouble at hand with a trial this big. There was no way he would miss it. Should the Empress be endangered he would be there at her side, ready to do what it took to keep his own people safe. As was important for a Warden of the Eternal Empire, especially a man of his own rank.

As he marched his way through the halls of the courtroom, he arrived at the door to the trial, pausing for a moment to glance aside at the men set to guard the doors. After just a second, a glance to analyze the soldiers before him, he quietly entered the room and stood himself by the door, leaving space for any that wished to enter but placing himself in an advantageous position, should people need to flee or the door need to be guarded. His posture remained tall and strong, eyes glancing through the metal mask, able to see clearly through slits wide enough to grant vision while still hiding his true identity.

Cautious eyes watched around the room, Thrask keeping his distance from others, his hands placed neatly at his side to maintain the formal image he had spent years perfecting. Even beneath his mask was a blank expression, not that any could see it. Discipline was important for the Wardens to maintain, a teaching that he was proud to have mastered, in turn allowing him to master the Force and Lightsaber combat in a way many wouldn't be able to. It was why he had risen to the rank he had, why he was trusted to be a Lord Commander, and why he felt the need to be here this day. If something went wrong he wanted to be there for it.

Judging from the tension in the room, he had made the right decision in that regard.

Only inches from his hands rested two black lightsabers, both handcrafted as a part of becoming a Warden. He had requested another in his training, wanting to use two sabers at once and develop his own form of fighting, something he had done well in. A defensive blade in one hand and an offensive in the other, both interchangeable, both mastered. A fighting style that few could hope to perfect. Form Seven had proven to be a challenge alone, let alone dual wielding and combining it with another form, one that was entirely different.

With his focus forward and his hands ready should he need them, Thrask watched the Sith Lord in the room before them and waited for the trial to continue as it had been.

 

[Isla Draellix-Kobitana]

Location: The court room
Objective: Observe justice
Tags:
Ingrid L'lerim Pietro Demici Darth Carnifex Eina L'lerim-Vandiir Heinrich Faust Geiseric

Spoiler: Isla's Personal Gear

Admiral's Sabre
Ashlan Rosary
Viper Skin Suit under uniform
Personal guard of Ashlan Praetorian droids
Overseer Biochip OPBC-01a

The trial seemed to be dragging on as both side maneuvered for position. Isla nearly laughed at the proposition from Darth Carnifex the crusade be made illegal instead. It reminded me of a trial she sat in growing up, some petulant teen had been caught with an illegal firearm and he argued that the police be arrested because they carried the same weapon.

Information pinged inside her biochip, an attack had taken place on the outskirts of the court compound, a thousand or so protestors, many armed had struck a blow trying to get to the compound. This was inevitable, the lower levels of Ession were still hard to police with even the best will in the world, and Carnifexes propagandese had been hard at work telling them that this was their moment. Luckily casualties were light, but the Plan that Isla had discussed with Heinrich Faust before the event, a seasoned Essonian, seemed to be paying off. Her Sister's feigned failure, pulling back, making the enemies feel emboldened.

The result of this was strongmen and firebrands stepping forward! Betrayed by their hot Essonian blood into leading the charge. The gates 'fell' and at one of the entrances leading onto a wide open courtyard, hundred and hundreds of Sith sympathisers funnelled in to the enclosed space, this is where Isla struck. Null-burst projecters opened fire into rhe crowd, certainly there were a few casualties as the weaker went down first and were caught under foot of the more resistant. But as subsequent barrages came in, the hundreds of people in the lead portions of the charge all now slept. Sisters of Ashla and local law enforcement moved in to begin making arrests. Further waves began to falter as the noticed the trap and making of their leadership were carted away.

Isla was informed of an incident on one of the sides primarily under Imperial control, Ladybug was using significantly more lethal methods to stave off the advancing enemies. She sent her a message "This is Prime Minister Draellix, I understand your desire to protect your Empress, but this is Ashlan space and I would like to keep civilian casualties to a minimum if at all possible." she wasn't naive to think that this would be a bloodless uprising but she would not be responsible for having to explain "The massacre of Ession"

She loaded up a holo of the local area, projected into her visual centre so that only she could see it, her troops were gold, Imperials in red and unknowns in blue. The enemies were forming up but they were as yet, unrefined masses. She looked up at Carnifex, his visage was unpleasant but she forced herself herself look, hoping to gain an insight into his plans.

The Ashlan Fleet in orbit had detected nothing yet, Crystal Grav traps would hopefully detect cloaked ships and prevent too many surprises. The wait was awful.

​

​

 

[Lilanna Kelamvor]

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O B J E C T I V E I: The Trial​

Tags: Open to whoever​

Location: In Courthouse​

Equipment: Lilanna's Lightsaber, Lilanna's Armor, BG-400 Blaster Pistol, Lady of Steel's Cybernetic Leg,​

​

She always prided herself on being a guard for the Empress. Very rarely did she ever get to act upon it however. Now, she would have such a chance. Standing on guard for the Empress in the presence of her former Emperor. It was unsettling to be certain. Though, she had learned to not allow that fear and uncertainty to control her.​

​

It tempered her more than anything, and to stand before that sea of blackness that rested within the man on trial, it told her that which she already knew; it was going to be alright. In spite of that, there was something in the air that unsettled her, and the Warden shifted in her posture, reaching out with her senses to probe the tension that was forming in the arm. There was a murmur of activity rippling through the courthouse, perhaps a reaction to something said, or unseen things unfolding. Lilanna couldn't be entirely certain, but she knew it could only mean that there was a shift. Which more than likely meant trouble.​

​

She frowned behind her helm, gauntlets tightening as she balled her hands into fists.​

​

The should have just gone ahead and killed the man and got it over with, not flaunt him before the adoring masses like executing him would be some penance for all the harm he had done.​

 

[Harmony]

The Trial
​

Location: Outside Courtroom
Gear: in Bio
Tags: Lilanna Kelamvor

Harmony was bored. Very bored. Problem being, she wasn't one for guard duty. She rather liked using her suit and what not to style on people, all the while making little holes in them. It was fun. What wasn't fun, was sitting on a roof like a bird pointing her rifle at anything that looked like it was going to cross an invisible line. It was very lame.

Unforutnalty, there was nothing she could do about it. This was how things were, and she was just going to have to deal with it. Which she assumed that was why she had a warden on stand by to harass. "Breaker one-niner, Breaker one-niner, this is Harms, come in Breaker one-niner. Over." She smiled as she saw Lilanna Kelamvor 's HUD flash, indicating the Warden got her message, and the possible retort that would come forth.

Except there was absolutely nothing. A voice arrived to ruin her little fun however, as she was hit with a rather brutish lecture. "Sister Harmony, complete comm silence was issued unless in case of emergency. Stay off the comms."

Well feth. Sighing, Harmony leaned against the room, drumming her fingers against the grip of her rifle.

She wished something cool would happen.

Even if that Warden lady came up here and tried to punch her in the face.

Yea, that'd be kinda fun.

 

[Hanaya Enzar]

Queen Hanaya Enzar

Queen of Codru Secundus

CEO of Archangel Manufactorum

Location: Felucia
Objective: distract Zolasha Tyrin
Wearing: Guarderma Bio-suit
Ship: Angel

Queen Enzar took Zolasha Tyrin by the hand and allowed her to lead her "Do I detect a hint of confidence finally coming to my beautiful friend? How very regal, it suits you." she smiled as they walked along, it was true that she seemed to hold herself a little taller here.

"I agree, my people, have built huge cities on Codru, but we try to love our little world and keep it happy." a large centipede moved along a branch near them, its body shimmered and changed color as Hanaya raised her scanner she had spooked it and it blended in to the tree it stood in almost perfectly.

"you haven't told me where want to visit first? The ruins aren't far, but I sense something, apprehension? A darkness clouding the area?" she thought, linking the ruins to Zolasha herself. "are these ruins a part of you? I can help but wonder about the similarities. I apologise if I am out of line." the two continued walking hand in hand. She looked forward to knowing more about Zolasha, she was considering asking her to become her consort, that would be lovely, but Hanaya felt it would be better to find out more about this unknown young woman before she offered her a throne. Maybe she should finally just ask.

"Zolasha my love, I need to ask, are you Sith?"