Faction You're Invited | NIO & Allies

[Marlon Sularen]

CARLAC
2 Weeks after the events of Forging More Ties

It had been over 2 years since Sularen stepped foot in the New Imperial Order having been dishonorably disgraced by a nation just like the Galactic Alliance , born out of the Blood of the Righteous and built on Lies , Deception and Betrayal. The New Imperials were just like the Alliance but worse possessing the same amount of Self-Righteousness thinking that their Ideology was superior to all others when in reality it was an obsolete concept , a Nation trying to repeat the successes of the First Galactic Empire of Darth Sidious and the Second Galactic Empire of the Fel Dynasty. To him they were just some petty attempt to restore Imperialism to Galaxy although in the end Sularen knew that the tides of Purification would sweep them away.

A T-4b Imperial Shuttle jumped out of Hyperspace arriving in orbit of Carlac. The Planet had been integrated at a time he was still a proud member of the New Imperial Order although the Lord-Imperator of Byss had never set foot on the World not had ever been in orbit of it. Setting his thoughts about Carlac and his views aside , Sularen was here for one singular reason to seek out a particular man , Julius Haskler. A Prominent Member of the New Imperial Diplomatic Corps that might be troublesome to Sularen's Efforts in making his Resurgence and getting his Revenge. Already Haskler had attempted to approach Vel'alari once but to no avail , but recently Sularen's Sources indicated that he had recently met with another of Sularen's Allies Kenth Berik although any information regarding that meeting was out of Sularen's reach and hence why he was here to get answers.

The Last time he did so , Sularen finished by secretly joining Darth Solipsis and his Final Dawn Faction within the Brotherhood of the Maw which stood as the only Organization now capable of supporting Sularen's Ambitions although unlike the New Imperials sacrifices would be made although Sularen , his followers and Byss would be largely spared as they would be part of the "Pure Empire" both Sularen and Solipsis had envisioned for the Core. As Sularen's Shuttle made landfall , the Lord-Imperator exited his Shuttle escorted by 2 Visible Crimson Guardians and 4 Cloaked Guardians with the remaining 4 Guardians remained with the Shuttle on stand-by in-case Sularen needed them.

"Now , time to see this so-called Heir of House Haskler" Sularen said as he made way towards the main event. He hopped that he could get the answers he wanted as this meeting would determine whether Julius Haskler was a threat to his operations to be dealt with or nothing more then a minor inconvenience. Sularen hoped for the latter tho. Already he had to deal with the Strategic Intelligence Agency , the last enemies he would want to make would be anyone within the more tougher and harsher New Imperial Order.

Tag | Julius Haskler ​

 

[Ezra Dune]

++ The Traveler ++
Open for interaction
++ attire ++​

The frost dangling from his bangs was something he could not ignore. Nor the smoke that billowed with every breath he took. Seems the cold was all the guests talked about as they marched into the castle, prepping for the celebration within. Ezra remained outside, nursing a well-extinguished cigarette before lighting another to preoccupy his mind. It would be another one of those nights, another mask to wear, voice to heighten, smile to sport. Typical for this type of affair that he once flaunted himself and his work in. Though it wouldn't matter how many time's he'd dressed in that mock socialite shell, it never got any easier. Perhaps it was due to crowds of smiling people or the talking that never settled closely like the constant noise of war. Regardless, social events made him sick, and yet he often found himself participating in them still.

“Mmm..” A gentle hum emanated from his throat as a cloud of smoke shrouded him in a thin veil. He was alone for now, having gone through hours of questioning, paperwork, testing - whatever protocols they had in place for his transfer into the icy throne. It was an absolute nightmare.

+ “A biochemist and weapons specialist?” +​

Ezra recalled the conversation with the rescue medics, the weary woman Jacqueline Krushatt and Julian Qar, the cybernetic doctor with his strange drawl and odd limp. Ezra found the figures intriguing, to say the least, thankful for their aid though he had considered returning back to the base on Serenno if it weren’t for their convincing and equally appealing offer to run the lab on Carlac. Funny how unsavory circumstances had led him to this rock covered in ice and snow.

There would be no one to miss - rather there would be no one to miss him. His madness as they called it, stripped him of the path laid out before him, though his retirement was one met with honor and not chaos. He was just getting old, he was tired and reality was often too much for him to hang onto. The specialist had found peace in his work, knowing that any time spent making conversation was time wasted away from what he deemed to be important. Perfectionism would be his ultimate downfall.

But tonight he found himself in the maw of a social event. Interesting how a turn of events had led him there, though he was alone - again, perhaps solitude was his favorite constant. A part of him hoped that the hall behind him would make for an interesting night. His feet were starting to guide him forward and away from the castle and its bustling.

“Come on, Ra…” He spoke candidly to himself working up the courage to drag himself towards the door. “Just be friendly, fifteen minutes, meet the warlord, the other guest, and then head out…Easy mission.” A long exhale took over as he slowly punched the finished cigarette onto the bottom of his boot. He’d flicked it away into a pile of newly shoveled snow. No one would know any better, nor did he care. A ringed hand combed through his salt and pepper mane, pressing down any strays that had been pushed up by the frigid wind. He was ready, now or never he thought as he made his way into the vast doorway leading to the grand hall. He could hear them before the lights peeked through his circle lenses.

There would be no denying his presence. Even as he stepped into the grand hallway his stature and mass seemed to dwarf those he stepped beside. “Excuse me.” His voice lingered on the bassy chords in his throat, it made his chest rumble, causing the necklace he wore to ripple against his chest.

“Can I help you s-sir.” Ezra couldn’t help but chuckle at the silent stutter from the attendant’s lips. He would offer a gentle smile, pushing up the glasses that found refuge on the tip of his nose. It was typical for him to have that effect on people for one reason or another.

“Doctor Ezra Dune,” The weapons specialist plucked the badge from within his long coat and offered it to the young attendance.

“It’s not necessary Colonel Dune, we have you here on the list.” Oh...right, perhaps that small detail of his past would come creeping through the door once more. “Plea- ugh, nevermind, thank you.” The epicanthix shrugged his shoulders, bowing in thanks before his feet took him forwards. Of course, he would make his way to the bar, seems that where all the tired old hero drowned away their reality.

 

[Julian Qar]

- LOOKING BACK TONIGHT -
Open for interaction
The Drip

There would be no moment to engage in conversation with the two women around him. The focus of his energies had been struck as soon as he felt a blip on his left arm vibrate the inner chamber of his mechanized limb. It couldn’t be...he felt his breath hitch, pulling up at the fallen sleeve of his shirt to find that faint glow become brighter. They all had their own distinct frequencies and now that only one stood...he knew exactly who the source was.

Surprises - Julian should have known better, that vulture was a sneaky one.

“Excuse me..” The medic was quick on his feet, focusing on the strength of the vibrations in his arm. Now was the time for those mock legs to kick into full gear, even with his slight limp he navigated through the crowd with a sensation of fire licking at his heels. He could feel himself drawer nearer - and then he saw her, Noel Strasza standing beside two equally irritated guards, in her finally pressed and decorated military uniform. He was awe-struck from that moment, failing to function so badly that now he felt that counterfeit cardio unit whirring in his chest, slamming violently reminding him to catch his breath. “Udesiir...Julian...haalur.” he mumbled to himself in his native tongue.

“Gentlemen,” the words slipped from his lips with a slight gruffness. He made his way closer to where she stood with the steadiness only a slow-moving creek could offer. He could see that look in her eyes, disoriented, frazzled, and annoyed, yet no one could blame her. The comforts of home were all she needed, not this rowdy show of feathers for the enjoyment of its guests.

Calmly, the doctor found what voice tucked away within the hollow of his augmented voice box,
“Hi, darlin’...” he spoke gently, clearing his throat when he finally caught that crimson light cast from her heated gaze. She really did something to him, the opposite to his calm would be the roaring inferno that was her.


“You...” He shook his head, chuckling at his inability to form words while he lowered his hands to find the comforting weight of hers. Slowly he would bring her hands to his lips, placing a small kiss on the illuminated curves of those newly polished titanium knuckles. His smile had softened, a strong feeling of calm enveloped him fully. “I missed you...” He started, feeling the core within his chest ramp up with heat, damn those scientist and their need to put flashy lights on everything.

The doctor seized a grip on his breathing to alter his focus on something other than the sheer exhilaration of seeing her. “I ...uh..gods..yo-you are absolutely breathtaking....” He had seen her, in all forms and incarnations and no matter what had been stripped from or added to, he saw deep within the vessel that carried that soul he adored more than anything in the world.

“I’m sorry, darlin' - sorry I wasn’t there when you woke up.” The recollection of time lost from her slumber mixed with a promise they had made to one another, broken by both parties. Though it was clear, unspoken almost, that they held no grudges towards each other. Just as she had been awoken in solitude, he had experienced the same. It was just a part of their lives, the call of service was an oath they made on opposite sides yet would always find one another in the middle. Julian held onto her hands, moving one to brush the strands of onyx that dipped forwards to cover her eye. If it wasn’t obvious enough how much he missed her, how much he loved her, and how elated he was to finally have her back.

​

 

[Auteme]

Lucien Dooku Halketh Rurik Fel
​

Auteme let out a little a chuckle. As good-intentioned as Lucien might be, his comment leaned a little provocative. "No need for that, Lucien," she assured him. She followed up with confident little glare -- I can handle it. He wasn't always there to 'defend her honour'. If she was ever feeling ignored, she'd probably do something about it. Compared to her oft-shy personality, the persona she'd built for political schmoozing was a touch more confident; a touch less conflict averse.

Even so, Rurik's acknowledgement wasn't unwelcome. She smiled and nodded. "Of course, Lord Executor -- a pleasure to see you as well. I really must try to keep up with Lucien at these kinds of events. The Jedi's style is hardly a match for the attire of Serenno's royalty."

Though she believed her attire had a leg up on Fel's, the King of Serenno was her match. Perhaps she was imagining things, but she believed they had a kind of rhythm. They walked in step, they smiled the same; she found herself wondering if the others could see it, or if it was only her. The way they saw each other couldn't be further from what everyone else could see.

Thus, as Halketh and Fel conversed, Lucien doubtless saw the barest shift in her demeanor. The slight droop of her hands, the tightening of her smile, a half-glance to him before she spoke up again.

"I concur with Master Fel -- we are most grateful to find a warm hearth in this most inhospitable of times," she said. "A break from the cold is always welcome. Lucien and I will enjoy it while we can. Thank you, Lord Halketh."

With that, she excused the two of them. Part of her wondered if Halketh would be irked by having his 'buffer' leaving. Rurik seemed to be awfully weighty in his presence and gaze. Yet, as much as she'd become accustomed to the politics, she wasn't lying -- she wanted to enjoy the break while she could. She looked sidelong at her partner, asking silently where they might head next.

 

[Okkeus Dainlei]

Objective: Reconnect with some old partners
Wearing: (x)
Tags: Hans Rennagen

———​

He listened as the Knight went on about the fighting the Imperials had done on Serenno. From his tone he could tell that the topic of war was uncomfortable for him. It was for the Jedi too.

With another bit of awkward silence between the two, he decided to just let it spill. Better than keep it bottled up.

“Look man, I want to apologize what I did back on Bastion. It wasn’t right, and I probably should have talked with y’all first.”

Taking a small breath, he collected his thoughts before speaking again.

“There was a lot on my mind at that time, especially after Dantooine. And now after the fighting on Ziost? I tend to run from the problems rather then face them. That was why I said so little when I left.”

As the words kept exciting his mouth, he started to realize more and more that he needed to get some help. Not just fling himself into another battle, hoping it with sort things out.

It was time for him to go seek someone out. This wasn’t doing him or anyone else any good.

 

[Julius Haskler]

Tag : Marlon Sularen

Julius was unsure of how to feel. Standing in a small lounge arranged for the occasion, the old diplomat was waiting for his guest. Marlon Sularen, infamous warlord of the Core, had requested a meeting, and the Anaxsi had no choice but to accept. The recent briefing with the Grand Vizier and the Sovereign Imperator had allowed him to clear his mind and prepare his line of thoughts. The conversation would dwell on Julius's implications with the Core, maybe on Kenth Berik if the warlord was well informed. The diplomat had one mission : make sure not to release any vital information, about his plan or about the Imperial Diplomatic Corps's scheme.

All in all, it was a pretty simple meeting : Sularen would try and interrogate him while Julius had to lie repeatedly, trying to be as convincing as possible. Ideally, he had to make Sularen believe he was going to betray the New Imperial Order in order to free Anaxes. Allying with the warlords was of course a stupid idea considering their military compared to that of the New Imperial Order and First Order. The chances of liberating Anaxes if the Hasklers aligned themselves with the Core warlords would drop significantly, partly due to the fact that the noble house would be working against the Galactic Alliance.

But could Sularen offer something to the Hasklers ?

Julius genuinely wondered if he had to be stubborn about his loyalty. He was, after all, a subject of the Empire, and even the New Imperial Order did not embody fully the Empire. Sularen was a warlord, an independantist scum, but he belonged to the large and proeficient family of the imperial citizens.

The security teams escorted Sularen to the lounge. Measures had been taken to ensure the diplomat's life wasn't threatened, and a platoon of TodHusars was on ready alert. They would have to break the roof of the lounge and jump into the room, effectively neutralising the warlord. The Anaxsi was protected by his armorweave shirt, but if the self-proclaimed "Imperator" decided to threaten him, it wasn't going to be enough to save his life. This was why Julius had hidden a dagger in his left boot, in case the things turned awry. Of course if he was murdered, Sularen would never escape Carlac, trapped on the icy world protected by legions of Carlaci Stormtroopers and teams of the Dalness Manufacturings. But the diplomat had still a basic sense of conservation. If he could avoid being killed, it was for the best.

Once the Carlaci Stormtroopers had ensured Sularen wasn't armed, they brought him to the lounge. Julius awaited him, and welcomed him with a warm smile and a vigorous shake of hand. He offered the warlord a seat, then sat in front of his interlocutor, making sure his sidearm was unholstered and put in evidence on a nearby table. The dagger was ready for use, but at least now Sularen had a sense of comfort and security. It was time to shuffle the cards and see who played with loaded dices.

"Tell me, Lord Sularen. What has brought you so far away from the safety of the Core ? What important matter do you wish to talk to me ?"

 

[Halketh]

H E A R T H
H A L K E T H
THE CROWN OF ICE
Rurik Fel | Rose Ann Lovely

​

The temporary flux in conversation towards King Lucien once more and his surely smashing plus-one allowed the reclusive Warlord a moment's reprieve from social custom, and he focused elsewhere, nurturing the champagne he clutched with all the attentiveness of a parent to a child. His form was tense beneath the layers he wrapped himself in to hide it and his energy, even more so. Consciously, he devoted a grand deal of his focus to suppressing this how he was able, unwilling to soil the night's mood for those amongst his guests who were sensitive to such things.

Yet, the approach of one most unfamiliar caught his focus and he turned his head in the redhead's direction, tilting his face in curiosity.
​

¨Hello sir.¨ she managed to squeak out after a moment. perhaps her voice would pull him out of his gloom if only for a moment. She cleared her throat and smiled sweetly. ¨I just wanted to come over and say thank you for your kindness. Many of us needed it. Me the least of all but, its so nice to see us come together like this.¨ she gave a small shrug.

¨Then i also just wanted to meet you.¨ she tilted her head curiously the way a dog would, studying his face. ¨But i don´t want to be a burden. If you want me to go i will.¨​

The lack of surety to her tone suggested she was as anxious as he was, even if he was better at masking it, the fact brought him comfort. It was nice to know there were others amongst the crowd who were cut from the same cloth. "Nonsense," Halketh spoke to her, his lips curling into something of a smile of understanding to her plight, "You humble me with your attendance. I thank you for coming." He paused, tuning back into the conversation he was part of previously, checking in to see if it required his input yet or not. He was still free to converse beyond it.

"I don't recognize you," he started, "no more than I recognize some of the others here, at the very least. But your vibrance cannot be ignored. I do hope you'll stay as long as you wish to." There was a silkiness to his tone, one that suggested he was sincere with the words he extended her.
​

"I suppose you're correct, the harsh cold makes the warmth of the hearth all the more enticing. But in truth, Carlac has been a world foreign to me since we'd first laid claim to it, forcing the Vong that dug in here from this place. Though it seems to have been healed to its original beauty, no doubt to your efforts. Otherwise, I am ever curious of what infrastructure you ahve established here under your reign, Lord Halketh. But...another time." Rurik remarks.

"Regardless, it is an excellent gesture, one I am sure our people are grateful for. And one that is well earned by all of them." He admits.​

"Quite," The Warlord turned his focus back on the Lord-Executor as he was addressed, though his smile held steady as his blindfolded face met the one of iron indifference, "I was hoping this could be an opportunity for new alliances and relationships to be forged, something I know many of those amongst the crowd here are longing for. Friends. Comrades. Allies. Drinking buddies, as it were." He raised his glass lazily towards the bar with that remark, "I must confess myself amongst them. Such seems to be the tragic shade lurking behind many familiar faces, thus I thought someone should do something about that- why not me?" He chuckled mirthfully.
​

"I concur with Master Fel -- we are most grateful to find a warm hearth in this most inhospitable of times," she said. "A break from the cold is always welcome. Lucien and I will enjoy it while we can. Thank you, Lord Halketh." ​

He nodded in the Jedi's direction, lifting what little sip remained of his glass, "Please enjoy yourselves. Dinner will be served shortly."

With the departure of the more familiar, Halketh turned his focus back to what wasn't: the Imperial Knight before him.

"Come, walk with me," he suggested, tipping his head towards the balcony doors, "I need some air."

Without waiting for the man's response, he started off, though he did pause in his stride to turn his head back towards Rose: "Enjoy yourself, please. You shine just as brightly as the others, don't fear otherwise."

And with that, The Vulture slinked through the crowd and moved to part the balcony doors, stepping out into the cold night air. Before he crossed the threshold entirely, however, the attendant waiting would drape a heavy, fur-lined cape over his shoulders to guard him against the frigid temperatures- the same offered to any and all who ventured into the cold beyond the party.​

​

 

[Noel Strasza]

L A Z A R U S
N O E L
C A R L A C
// 1946 HOURS LOCAL TIME //
Julian Qar

A familiar face, the one she anxiously sought more than any other broke from the crowd. It was enough to scatter every other person in that room to the wayside and the world was batted away, leaving only the two of them standing in the room together. Breaking her hardened scowl came some pathetic attempt at a bright smile, one that fractured the unforgiving exterior she was infamous for and ushered in a warmth that made her feel giddy again. Not only that but this chariot of sunshine brought with it a tide of relief. Strasza shoved the babysitters off her shoulders and pulled her hands from his grasp, curling her arms around his neck and drawing him into a tight embrace. The steel of her chin rode upon his shoulder, allowing the edge of her nose to press just before his ear.

"I missed you." She breathed, offering him only those three words initially.

Relief flooded her, overwhelming her, and choking her up just as much as he seemed to be. The last they had seen of each other was the dropship over Ziost, just before he had gotten reassigned to assist the Galactic Alliance in the city directly. She was thankful now, that he had been. Had he been in the field with them, he likely would have been killed just as the rest of their squadron had been. The docile warmachine held onto him there, hugging him tightly as if he would slip from her grasp if she released him once more. "I thought I lost you." She confessed breathlessly, giving him a final squeeze before drawing back enough to rest her hands on his arms and get a look at him.

It had been just over a month since she had gone into reassembly and while she had changed dramatically, he had not. That was more than reassuring- he hadn't been injured or suffered as severely as she had in the throes of that pointless endeavor. The worry plaguing her consciousness in the time her mind had been her only dwelling dissolved in an instant.

"Catch me up, Jules." She squeezed his arm gently, trailing her right down to catch the fingers of his left hand. "What have I missed?"​

 

[Rose Ann Lovely]

Halketh

She relaxed as he assured her of her place. ¨Well thank you once more my Lord.¨

She smiled teasingly as she said my lord but flushed a soft pink as he complemented her. ¨w-well I.¨

she stumbled over her words searching for something to grasp onto. ¨will stay as long as i am welcomed.¨ She then watched him leave another wave of red painting her face.

¨I don´t now how many times im going to have to say than you but i will once more.¨ she smiled at the retreating figure. ¨So thanks.¨ Her final words to him were soft and more meant for herself then any one.

she then turned to join back in with the others in the crowd. Admittedly? She felt nice, lord Halketh just saved Rose in more ways then he could know.

Rose would have even hugged him if she had the guts to do so. Now she could return with a new spark. Feel like less of a shadow.

With everything that had been going on and The new influence in her life.

she had needed that.

 

[Julian Qar]

- A- G R A V E -M E L O D Y-
Noel Strasza + Open for interaction
The Drip

There was no bustle or noise that could sway his focus. Everything else was just a background melody to the masterpiece before him. He’d offer her a smile, the cooling lights of his core flashed an outward display of his emotions, he didn’t even mind it. For once there was peace and ground to stand on. Julian exhaled hard, lifting his hands to cup her cheeks, “I’m right here gorgeous…won’t be goin’ anywhere, anytime soon, can promise you that.” He kissed her forehead, pressing his nose against the smooth strands of her bangs to really slip into that moment.

An for once, he wasn't dreaming.​

When he spoke again, magnetism locked his eye on hers, catching their glow and letting tiny wings lift the strings of his heart, he would not cower, no, Julian would not shy away from allowing his voice to propel his emotions, “I love you...” if there were any words he’d waited to utter, any words that expressed more than he ever could, it would be those three words. And even then, he just allowed them to dance around them, filling the stillness with their beauty, letting whoever heard them know that he was not afraid to show off his vulnerability.

“The month was rough…” that single lens trailed off, hiding away the true tale he kept buried deep within. Part of him knew they’d casually come out, but for now, she wouldn’t hear them. There’d be no words of messy negotiations, nor the rescue mission, the teams he set forth to establish within their corp, all the political and social nonsense that encased him, tore him from moments to catch his breath - except for now.

“Things have been real messy, darlin’. Sh*t, I think you can say we’ve got more chaos in these walls than we’ve had in a while.” He let his thumb idly rub the sides of her hand, she should feel that now, whatever decimated and broken state she had been left in was now stripped clean and streamlined. She was a better version of herself, he made sure of it, meticulous in reworking the entirety of her frame. He blamed himself for the severity of the impact she withstood in her former shell, even felt violent thorn pierce his heart whenever he thought of them. He should have been there...but duty pulled him away, fate can be curious like that.

There was a vision in which he could not hide, “We uh...we lost Cassiy, darlin’,” He allowed his words to sink into the open spaces of air, his breathing piloted the thoughts of mourning while he watched her, his own expression walking that jagged line of sorrow. “Halk is...man’s lost his way. Now I reckon you can understand the meanin’ for this party...it’s all just a distraction...everyone misses her. Messed up over what happened in Serenno...” He looked around, to ensure he wasn’t near but he knew - he knew their connection and proximity would warrant that worthless. “Haze is doin’ best she can. She and Maz were supposed to come but, you know this place reminds her of Cass too much.” Julian smoothed down his platinum bangs and rubbed his face, he looked exhausted, like he hadn’t slept in the entire month she had been down - it was true. Julian was there every day, pacing and checking, checking and pacing. Until they told him it was useless for him to hang around. Time, that’s all she needed, and yet he was still inpatient.

He let the moment drift off...giving her some semblance of good or neutral news despite the obvious.

“And uh...before you...say anythin’ or start hollerin' when ya see him. We guh-I got us a cat...his name is Noodle.”

Yea, he named the cat after the meal they had on their first real date.

​

 

[Marlon Sularen]

As Sularen arrived at the entrance of Lounge where he ordered his Crimson Guards to remain at the exit and as the Carlaci Stormtroopers arrived , the Crimson Guards dispersed activating their personal cloaking devices remaining outside and scattered around the Lounge on stand-by in case something bad happened to their Lord-Imperator. Meanwhile Sularen entered the Lounge escorted by the Carlaci Stormtroopers as he was brought infront of Julius Haskler who offered him a seat beside him.

"Tell me, Lord Sularen. What has brought you so far away from the safety of the Core ? What important matter do you wish to talk to me ?"

"Thank you for receiving me Mr.Haskler. As for i am here , i'm pretty sure a man the likes of you would already know the true reason behind that. I am here because of pure curiosity Mr.Haskler especially about your little trip on Bilbringi a few weeks ago. I was there when you met with Kenth Berik , atleast within my Office at the Bilbringi Shipyards where i was informed of your arrival. I'm already aware of your previous attempt to contact Vel'alari which brings me to my question. Why did you met with Kenth Berik and for what purpose"

The Nature of the Meeting between Kenth Berik and Julius Haskler was still a mystery to Marlon Sularen but for a High-Ranking New Imperial Officer to contact one of Sularen's allies that already brought him some concerns given that the New Imperial Order had never bothered to interfere in his Operations not to mention the New Imperial Diplomatic Corps was the one seemingly interfering in his Operations. Ever with his brief 1 Year Service in the New Imperial Order , Marlon Sularen had never even heard of the New Imperial Diplomatic Corps given at how most Dipomatic Affairs of the New Imperial Order were managed by Tyrell Paxxus and Irveric Tavlar.

But this was the perfect opportunity to get some insight on what this New Imperial Diplomatic Corps was up to and how to counter any sort of plans they had against the Shadow Association. However for what Sularen knew Julius Haskler's Interaction with Kenth Berik was a sign , a sign that indicated the possibility of the New Imperial Order attempting to do exactly what Credius Nargath had done to Sularen. To cause the collapse of his Organization by drawing out Sularen's Allies to their cause and that wasn't something Sularen would tolerate whether the New Imperials were doing that for real or not.

Tag | Julius Haskler
​

 

[Roudac Gannan]

A GUEST AND A +1

Delilah Graham | The Major | Halketh

The way Delilah Graham could turn a serious topic - such as almost being killed - into casual conversation impressed Roudac. He couldn't help but feel even when gassed, shot or bombed, the Home Secretary would maintain composure and brush it off as 'just another day at the office'. The Allegiant General could respect that. Someone who just got the job done, someone like himself; especially since there was no point in getting lost in the innumerable intricacies of a situation, when options boiled down to yes or no.

"I would hope that's the case," Gannan responded with a side glance and wry expression. "Though, who's to say how this night could turn out, with all these different groups together."

As the pair moved, close enough to speak lowly, the topic of what had been overheard came up. From the foyer Roudac hadn't been able to hear too much, at least nothing worth mentioning. Sure, he had picked up on the odd piece of conversation from guests as they arrived, but that was hardly the important discussions, those happened further inside once alcohol had passed lips. "Nothing useful, no," Gannan said simply, as he smiled and accepted the champagne flute offered by his date for the evening. "Someone did complain about their personal coat being taken, but other than that... and really? It never ceases to amaze me how ladies can have conversation in the ladies room. I can't think of anything I'd rather avoid in the bathroom."

Onward the pair moved, when Delilah performed a small clink of glasses, to which Roudac returned the gesture. He also heard as the Moff mentioned a pair nearby, whom Roudac had noticed earlier, and asked about them.

"Yes, yes it would seem so," The Allegiant General muttered as he looked back to Caarlyle Rausgeber and The Major with deep brown eyes, his hard gaze passing over them. Assessing. "We should circle back and say hello, when we have the chance. I would very much like to know what our Director is doing accompanying him. Granted, I believe there's some past connection, but we're not exactly seeing eye to eye, Government wise..."

Still, before all that could happen, Roudac understood enough about function etiquette to know that one had to introduce themselves to the host.

"Over there, Halketh - the one in the crowd, with the wrappings over his eyes," Roudac motioned with his head. "He's the host. Should we go and introduce ourselves? Get all that nonsense out the way?"

There also seemed to be some stirring at the bar, across the way, which caught the Allegiant General's eye. While nothing to do with the pair, it was worth noting, and would be put away for later use if needed. But, beyond that, Roudac continued to weave through the area and sentients, on the way to the host of the party...

"Oh, and feel free to lead. I think you'll make a better first impression."

 

[Julius Haskler]

Tag : Marlon Sularen

It was no surprise to hear Sularen talk of his quick excursion to Bilbringi. It was reassuring, even. Julius doubted the warlord would have made the trip to the New Imperial space just to try and fool the diplomat. Why would have he done that? It made no sense. No, if Sularen was as intelligent as he was described, he would risk the journey only if he was sure of what he did. All of this meant the self-styled Lord-Imperator of the Core had no clue of what Berik and himself had talked about. Maybe he feared a defection from one of his assets. Or Julius's incursion to Bilbringi had drawn the attention of the warlords, and they wanted to recruit him, convinced the Anaxsi's interests lied in the Core.

While Sularen entered the lounge, Julius kept his neutral and indecipherable composure. Keeping his intentions away from his interlocutor was the key. The match had just begun, and it was still time to surprise the warlord. What could be done to unsettle him? There were several options. The easiest being to state House Haskler was going to defect from the New Imperial Order, convinced of the uninterest it had for the fate of Anaxes.

The other was to shift positions. Instead of trying to reassure the Lord-Imperator, Julius could very well frighten him by telling him the absolute truth. The Galactic Alliance was going to sweep over Bilbringi while the New Imperial Order replaced the warlord's assets with populists loyal to another cause. The risk was high of seeing Sularen flee, never to be seen again. He could also take that time in exile to amass troops and retry his conquest of the Core.

In the worst case, the Imperials could very well destroy Sularen's shuttle and trap him on Carlac. Surrounded by legions of soldiers and powerful Force Users such as Rurik Fel, Lucien Dooku, and Lord Halketh of course, the warlord would last approximatively a day and a half. Even with all odds against him, Julius bet Marlon Sularen, prideful warlord of the Core, would never surrender and would be creative to find ways to escape. Sadly for him, they were none Julius could imagine. Even if the diplomat was murdered, never would Sularen step out of the palace.

Thank you for receiving me Mr Haskler. As for I am here, I'm pretty sure a man the likes of you would already know the true reason behind that. I am here because of pure curiosity Mr Haskler especially about your little trip to Bilbringi a few weeks ago. I was there when you met with Kenth Berik, at least within my Office at the Bilbringi Shipyards where I was informed of your arrival. I'm already aware of your previous attempt to contact Vel'alari which brings me to my question. Why did you met with Kenth Berik and for what purpose

There they were. The trip to Bilbringi. It mattered not what suspicion he had because Julius had made his mind. If Sularen wished to talk frontally, the heir would give him what he wanted. The sparring match had begun and the Anaxsi had three cards to play and unveil progressively. It was time to unsettle his interlocutor. Step by step, Julius would confront the Lord-Imperator and destabilise him. And whenever he received Irveric Tavlar 's personal order, he would signal his troops to intervene and trigger the jamming beacon.

But he could not overstep. The dialogue had to resume before Sularen suspected something. The silence Julius had observed lasted long enough. Softly, he mumbled.

"Generally, people prefer to call me Lord Haskler. But if you feel comfortable with calling me Sir Haskler, I bet it's no problem."

The diplomat cleared his throat and spoke louder.

"You surprise me, Lord Sularen. I do not know any Vel'alari, nor have met one in the past. I thought your intelligence service was better informed of my actions, and there I see they invent trips I never made to meet people I don't know. Might I know who is your head of service? Maybe it is time for him to retire."

All of this was done in an amused tone. The objective was not to mock Sularen, but rather his ambitions compared to his assets. Whatever shame he could feel when learning Julius did not know Vel'alari would be enough for the moment, because it was the absolute truth. Of course, Julius knew who Grand Moff Vel'alari was, but he had never met the person, and it was the last thing he wished to do.

How the discussion would unfold after that burst of fake news would be amusing for the least.

 

[Rurik Fel]

M A N _ O F _ I R O N
NEW IMPERIAL ORDER
LORD EXECUTOR
KNIGHTS OF THE EMPIRE
CARLAC
Halketh | Lucien Dooku | Auteme

STARLESS
​

And so the Lord Halketh seemed as intrigued in the mysterious nature surrounding Rurik that also seemed to shroud the man before him. He simply nodded his head to the rest, as if he was trying to blend into the very surroundings, shrinking beneath the station of the Lord Executor and soon, he was all but isolated in the elegant chaos about them.

They split from the rest, crossing the barrier of climate controlled bliss into the artic winds of Carlac. Where Halketh equipped himself in the heavy fur cloak, Rurik was evidently unbothered with the climate even as the cold immediately singed at the cold steel pressed against tortured skin. The Warlord, hospitable as he might have been did not incur any level of reassurance in the Lord Executor and given the nature his position demanded, he sought answers to questions he wasn't quite sure he had yet.

"And whatever intrigued you about Carlac, Lord Halketh? To my understanding, you are no native to this world. When the Order first set down on this world...it was desolate, occupied solely by the sparse natives...and the Yuuzhon Vong. Now, you've managed to build a kingdom from ice." Rurik remarked.

"But if I may be candid, Lord Halketh...I have no idea how you appeared within the ranks of the Iron Sun. Your nature does not seem like that of the Imperial." He admits.

 

[The Major]

CARLAC'S CROWN OF ICE
MORALE: NEUTRAL
Caarlyle Rausgeber | Roudac Gannan | Delilah Graham ​

What, was there only really one bar worth getting liquor at in this joint? This Sybil sardonically thought as a cut to all the various circumstances played out around the floor. It certainly was a spirited joust for attention and identity as the disparate elements in the form of warmongers, politicians, spies, and soldiers bristled and blended together.

What really gave Shepard a tad of a pause was the insistence from Caarlyle to have ice in his whiskey. She certainly was no Vice Admiral when it came to the imbibing of darker spirits, but she could have recalled reading somewhere that a subject of debate arose when considering the art of drink: ice diluting the taste of a fine liquor versus the purity of warmth, life affirming substance tantalizing one’s tongue and throat. She would have bet that Rausgeber was the kind to prefer ice-chilled granite or soapstone in his straight drink. You know, that little extra razzle and pomp.

Well, assumptions were a great path to failure.

“Pa’desh, aye,” In reference to their last time working together for a very different type of holdout government. “But, of course, we both pursued different paths from that old redoubt.” There was no need to delve into the nitty gritty about the authenticity of that statement. After all, the good Admiral was looking quite youthful for someone with his extensive career of service. Something had come along to enhance his life. “Now, doesn’t the Eternal Empire claim the world as part of its borders? Hm.” She took a long sip from her drink. “Insane, how unstable the galaxy is these days. It’s good to see you’re still alive considering how drastic circumstances have been.”

As of Sybil’s First Order compatriots, she was yet unaware of their presence or topic of discussion; their confrontation would be quite shocking at this very moment.

 

[Marlon Sularen]

---

---

"Generally, people prefer to call me Lord Haskler. But if you feel comfortable with calling me Sir Haskler, I bet it's no problem. You surprise me, Lord Sularen. I do not know any Vel'alari, nor have met one in the past. I thought your intelligence service was better informed of my actions, and there I see they invent trips I never made to meet people I don't know. Might I know who is your head of service? Maybe it is time for him to retire."

Hasker's Response only increased Sularen's suspicions. The moment he denied knowing anything about Vel'alari he knew he was lying as it was quite unlikely for a Diplomat like him to head to a planet significantly important to Imperial History without any knowledge of the current state of the Planet. Sularen was all familiar with this game of lies and deceit , as he had once been a pawn of it and after all Haskler was an Imperial Politician and Diplomats and everyone knew Imperials and Politicians were known for lying and deceiving others so the Lord-Imperator wouldn't be surprised if Haskler was hiding something especially when it involved one of his long-time allies Kenth Berik.

"Very well , then Sir Hasker. Perhaps i was misinformed but then yet again my main questions remains. What was the meaning of your meeting with Kenth Berik. I doubt you are unaware about my ties with him which go way back , after all you are a Diplomat and people like you should atleast know about the individuals they are meeting , their history , service record , personality traits and other information that might help you." Sularen said in response.

Julius Haskler would have to choose his next words wisely for Sularen knew well he was already lying and already knew how to distinguish the difference between the truth and the lies Haskler would spread. From what he knew , the New Imperial Diplomat assumed he was some Imperial Warlord which was far from reality. Nevertheless , Sularen would unearth the true intentions of the New Imperial Diplomat one way or another , or his name wasn't Marlon Sularen. The Lord-Imperator of Byss had been in the Political Game long before his service in the New Imperial Order and he knew exactly how to get what he wanted. By the end of this discussion he would find out whether Haskler posed a threat to him or not and whether he should dispose of him quickly or tolerate his annoyance.

Tag | Julius Haskler ​

 

[Julius Haskler]

Tag : Marlon Sularen

​

What was the meaning of your meeting with Kenth Berik. I doubt you are unaware about my ties with him which go way back , after all you are a Diplomat and people like you should atleast know about the individuals they are meeting , their history , service record , personality traits and other information that might help you.​

Sularen was not convinced, it seemed. Julius's attempt to avoid speaking of Berik had failed. The warlord was sticking to his original question, and he wanted the answer he had come for. Very well, then. The diplomat was yet again facing his triple-solution choice. Tell him the truth in hopes of frightening him, reassuring him, or arrest him to put an end to the threat. The first and last choices were appealing. He could cut the meeting short and get away with the satisfaction of having dealt with a major threat.

But with the Imperator's order not reaching him, Julius was beginning to feel nervous. The third solution was not meant to be triggered unless he received a direct order from either the High Command, the Imperator or the Grand Vizier... And none of the people authorised to order the arrestation had reached the Anaxsi yet. That meant he had to keep Sularen in the room for the longest time possible, and not provoke him. He could not make him leave the palace too early. The warlord had to stay.

The old diplomat sighed lightly before making his mind into using the second solution. He had to reassure the Core warlord in a way that would convince him. He had to tell the truth. At least, a part of it. Telling the Hasklers were going to defect from the New Imperial Order was excluded, but the idea could be suggested at the very least. He had to reassure Sularen about his meeting with Senior Captain Kenth Berik.

Julius swallowed, and walked behind Sularen, seemingly admiring a painting representing the master of the planet, Halketh . For several seconds, the diplomat remained silent, then decided to speak again, his light tone gone as he answered the warlord.

"This is a magnificent portrait, don't you agree? The pinnacle of art on this planet. But I understand you do not wish to lose time disserting of art when we could speak seriously. Let me tell you the story of Anaxes. For centuries, the Hasklers and other pro-imperial noble houses ruled over the Azure Jewel. Then, the Galactic Alliance came and forced us into exile, plunging the people into misery and anguish. We fled, for we could not oppose the might of the Jedi and their fellow warriors. We did not wish to spark a war..."

All of this was emotional for the least, but it was almost the true story of what had happened. It was of course a bit meliorated to make the Hasklers shine but in its globality it was true. Unless the warlord was a doctor in Anaxsi history, which he could very well be, it would be hard to tell where the truth stopped and where the invention started.

"Our exile led us to the New Imperial Order, a few years ago. In this anti-Sith state, we saw the chance to recreate an Empire and free our planet from the rule of the Jedi. But as we multiply the operations alongside the New Imperials, it seems their interest in Anaxes shrinks. They were welcoming and supportive when we brought a brigade and a fleet, but now they use us for their own wars."

And now they were getting to the important part. Berik. Julius watched carefully as he unveiled the next words, staring at Sularen's face, eager for a reaction.

"This is why I contacted Berik. He is a famous mercenary of the Core, and I tasked him with scouting Anaxes. Once his mission is complete, the Hasklers will come to war with the Alliance and liberate Anaxes. You have your answer, Lord Sularen: I hired Berik to prepare my troops for war. For Anaxes."

 

[Delilah Graham]

​

B R I C K by B R I C K​

Delilah craned her elegant neck to study The Major and Caarlyle Rausgeber . She was not especially concerned about them spotting her looking; Sybil Shepard worked for Delilah and Rausegeber was basically irrelevant to First Order politics, for all intents and purposes. Still, two of the oldest of the old guards chatting outside of First Order territory was a manner of concern. It opened the door to all manner of possibilities being discussed: defection (by whom, unclear); assassination (of whom, unclear); an affair (between whom, unclear)... the list went on and on.

"I'll discuss it with her later," Delilah said after a moment, lifting her champagne flute to her lips for another sip.

She nodded in agreement with his plan. "Good idea. I don't suppose you brought a bottle of wine. Although I suppose it's not quite that kind of party. And anyway, I wouldn't call it nonsense, exactly. It's nice to be invited and judging by who else is here it would be nice to get invited next time, too." Delilah raised a delicately sculpted eyebrow and then jerked her head towards Halketh . She set off towards the small group near him, fully prepared to wait to pay her respects, approaching just as the host proceeded onto the balcony with another guest.

Delilah glanced at Roudac Gannan , her eyebrows lofting. "Bad timing," she observed dryly. "But I'm sure he'll be back soon."

While she waited for her chance, she took another sip of her champagne and went on: "You know, these kinds of things are a little awkward for a woman in my line of work." Her gaze traveled around the place, eyes narrowing here, eyebrow quirking up there. "I have intelligence dossiers of varying detail on the more notable people here, and I'm sure at least half a dozen have a similar dossier on me. And you. Imagine walking up to someone and saying, Ah, Lord Puffenstuff, how do you do? Is your mistress quite recovered from her flu?"

 

[Halketh]

S C A R E D A N D A L O N E
H A L K E T H
THE CROWN OF ICE
Rurik Fel

When the stoic Knight spoke, the wise knew to listen. Such was the case. The Vulture drew himself to the edge of the balcony, reaching to place his gloved hands upon the rail. He nodded in slow acknowledgement, understanding the curiosity the man beyond the iron possessed, and in some way, he was taken by surprise. Rurik was the first of any New Imperial to inquire about his rather sudden appearance and efforts. It was enough for the Warlord to muster some sincerity in his smile as his blindfolded visage twisted back around towards the Lord Executor.

"It was exactly that which you stated that drew me to Carlac," he began, allowing the words to drip off his tongue easily, "it was nothing. A world forgotten after the violence inflicted upon its natives and what was brought to it. This world existed in a bubble before any of us and it remained that way until the rest of the galaxy was imposed upon it." Gentle, quivering fingers sought to catch the edge of the fur draped over his shoulders and tug it further forward. "Yet just beneath the surface, under the ice and in the hearts of the mountains, lay promise of so much more- all it took was the right will to seek it." A lonesome digit flexed upward, indicative of the stars. "I suppose it was my selfishness, then, that I wished to claim this world, for I felt only I was capable of bringing it to its fullest potential. And yet still, there is much to be done." The latter comment was breathed out upon a sigh, clouding the air with his breath.

The return of his tremoring hands to the rail before them saw his fingers drumming along the edge as he considered the nature of the Knight's secondary observation. It was enough to make him chuckle, only once, as he considered the merit of what he had just stated and how it suited the situation brought to bear.

"What you've observed, is true." He nodded vaguely, "I am no native Imperial, nor have I ever claimed to be. I come from a place forgotten by all but the Sith who see it as naught but another trophy under their collective belt. My people are all but extinct yet I have survived through the decades in the background, doing little more than waiting for a cause to emerge that I believed could stand against the Sith. Not challenge them. Not balance with them, nor negotiate with them." Halketh turned his head back towards the Man of Iron, exposing the twitch to his scarred lips- the threat of a snarl- as he spoke his next words: "But to end them. The same as every other brother and sister we've gathered beneath the banner. My case is no more special than any other, but I cannot be satisfied with the knowledge that the Order is working in time. I've done enough waiting and bartering in my years, I've no intention to do any more."

Unwittingly, his fingers had curled into claws against the rail- yet, the rest of his demeanor seemed to shift on a dime, relaxing and returning to its near stoicism almost as quickly as that mask had lifted. "I drew strength from where it was I dwelled the years before my name held any meaning beyond some hollow utterance meant as caution, as much cannot be denied. But as alone as I have always been, the Imperials have given me a reason to step from the shadows and act. I may never be one of you by blood, nor do I care to be," Another lengthy exhale dipped his shoulders beneath its weight, "but I will shed blood for you all. I should hope the same shall be said for me when it's all said and done." ​

​

Though his words may have suggested uncertainty, he wove them with nothing but confidence.

 

[Rurik Fel]

M A N _ O F _ I R O N
NEW IMPERIAL ORDER
LORD EXECUTOR
KNIGHTS OF THE EMPIRE
CARLAC
Halketh

The Lord Executor was content to listen than speak, not feigning on the opportunity to gauge the thoughts and desires of a man who was all but a specter to the rest of the government that comprised of already maverick and independently thinking individuals. To create something of nothing, there was no more fulfilling or self gratifying task, one he could commend the Lord Halketh in pursuing with this desolate, frozen world. Clearly, the fruits of his labor had not gone unnoticed or wasted here, given the revelry they walked amongst now.

"You mistake what Empire is. It is not bloodlines...or lineage. It is an identity of many brought unto one. You are as Imperial just as I am, this is the beauty of our New Order. Something the Sith had always failed to understand...and the reasoning each great Empire of their make has crumbled to ash." Rurik said, peering out toward the blissful, frigid cold before them.

"They are rulers...they are not leaders, they have no sympathy nor brotherhood to the Imperial, they look at them as slaves, not comrades, not brothers. And that is why their rule will crumble each and every time, a cycle caked in generations of blood, a great deal of it...New Imperial. But where was it you emerged from, Lord Halketh? What was the catalyst to this drive...to eradicate them." He knew the exact answer he might give if this question was levied on himself.