Lucius Vasili
The First Order
"Would you like a lesson in the rules of war?"
Posts: 121
Affiliation: The First Order
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Post by Lucius Vasili on May 18, 2023 9:55:56 GMT -8
--Lucius waited patiently as the final check was done. Considering the amount of security, it was likely that Octavian was indeed here to meet with them. Something he was glad for. After his own claims, he would hate to finally get this meeting for Dice only to never meet the Emperor, Nicademus or Octavian.
Once they had been cleared, the Vice-Admiral led Dice and his men inside. As he expected, some of the highest ranks were currently present, the one notable one who was missing for the Grand Admiral. He suspected that she was occupied in her patrols, much like he would be. He wasn't much for the politics of things and rather be in the fray aboard a ship.
As the young Emperor approached, Lucius crossed his arm just below his chest and gave a bow. Nicademus had made it clear he preferred to be saluted as all military were, something he respected. Someone who ensured he remembered where he came from. However, he wasn't sure of Octavian's stance and opted for the bow he made. He was Force-sensitive and trained within a order of such. For them, he figured bow was much more common. So that was his reason behind proceeding with a bow over salute.
When spoken to, Vasili nodded.--
"I'm more than certain he would have enjoyed the company of Captain Dice and his men. Alas, it is for you now to hear his story and perhaps truly learn about the time long ago. He may have arrived in a time long past his own, but I'm sure he could still teach us as much as we could him."
--He then stepped to the side to allow the Emperor to speak with Dice directly, standing at ease as he listened to the conversation that followed.--
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Captain Dice, CT-3949
Member
Posts: 61
Affiliation: N/A; formerly Galactic Republic
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Post by Captain Dice, CT-3949 on May 20, 2023 23:31:41 GMT -8
"I understand completely for the delays," Dice said. Visibly, he remained unperturbed, but once he was inside the chamber of the emperor and his command staff, a thought that had been subtly lingering for some time struck him with full force. Here was a monarch with absolute power, surrounded by his lackeys who were actively destroying the successor state to the Republic, with none to oppose his rule. If this Octavian decided to render a world as slag, it would be done within the hour of the order. Checks and balances, the presence of natural competition, people who could tell you 'no', this young emperor would never have to deal with such necessary troubles if he never desired them.
It struck awe into his heart. Awe, and fear. Revulsion, unexpected and powerful. The Force only knows what his general might've said. "As I've partially told the Vice Admiral, my name is Captain Dice, CT-3949. I served under Jedi General Helles Callyon in the 447th Legion of the Grand Army of the Republic. For four years, my men and I participated in many engagements, against the Confederacy of Independent Systems and the wider Separatist cause in our efforts to preserve the cohesion of the galaxy and defend the Republic. For two weeks, we chased Rear Admiral Bastilla Korve across the Outer Rim, into the Unknown Regions. In the space just outside of the Dubrillion system, we were ambushed by a force we couldn't beat. Despite severe damage, General Callyon ordered we jump into hyperspace...and now, here we are. "I don't know the science behind our travels. I don't understand why I am here, why I was spared and Callyon was not. But my responsibility remains, to my men. The army I served, the Republic I served, is gone now. I don't know where that will leave me, I suppose that's partially why I'm here. What would you do with me, Emperor Delvardus?"
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Post by Octavian Delvardus on May 24, 2023 20:34:16 GMT -8
The newly-made Emperor was certainly being put on the spot by this Clone Captain given the fact that he asked what would be done with him. Dice certainly was devoted to those that remained under his command and certainly wanted to make sure they were in good hands. Clones had not been utilized much, like they were, in the waning days of the Old Republic. Grand Admiral Thrawn used Spaarti variants in order to fill the ranks of his Stormtroopers and Navy for his inevitable, and masterful, campaign. Beyond that, most nations drew upon the vast manpowers at their disposal.
In the early days of the Deep Core Remnant, when his father, the Late Emperor, was his age, Nicademus relied heavily upon the cloning facilities of Khomm. Khommite Stormtroopers became a trademark of his early armies considering the lack of sources for manpower in the Deep Core. They were still used today by the Knights of Ren and could be found in various parts of both civilian and military life for the First Order. Arkanian clones came into the picture when it was secured during the Coreward Campaigns that saw the annexation of Coruscant. Their clones served the same role as Khommites did today; mostly either as a means to plug holes in units that needed replacements or to help with the burgeoning industry of the Empire. There were still citizens of the nation nonetheless.
Octavian seemed to contemplate for a moment, allowing a face all too similar to that of his father to appear. Roderick Rus, his attendant, looked at him carefully as well. This wasn't hundreds of thousands of lives, but these were still soldiers, and the First Order always valued good and hardworking individuals. Dice certainly had those sort of personnel under his command.
I am sorry that the Jedi General Callyon could not make it back to the greater galaxy. It is fortunate though that what remained of the 447th Legion returned safely. I am sorry that you have come to see... a whole different reality than that of the time when you served a different nation. This galaxy must seem... so foreign now.
Octavian could only imagine how the clones when their general was no longer with them.
Your ship is yours, your men are yours, Captain Dice. But if you seek a purpose for you and those that follow you, the First Order would happily accept you. My father always valued men of merit, of loyalty, and of dedication. Something that I strive to continue, not in his name, but for the sake of the nation's betterment. The Empire was built by men who were dedicated to the cause my father founded and that continues on today. Even people, like Vice-Admiral Vasili here, came from a different flag, but found their place with us. We are fortunate to have such dedicated and hardworking persons.
If Dice accepted, there would be time for them to rest and adjust. Everything they needed to fit in.
If there are those in your rank that desire... a more peaceful life, one where they can find a new meaning among the stars, the Empire will help them find work, find a purpose, and find their place where they can thrive as individuals. The First Order has always done its best to look after its citizens. And she would happy, and proud, to have you and your men join us.
The offer had been made and now the Emperor left the decision up to the Captain.
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Captain Dice, CT-3949
Member
Posts: 61
Affiliation: N/A; formerly Galactic Republic
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Post by Captain Dice, CT-3949 on Jun 4, 2023 10:50:06 GMT -8
Dice considered this. He would be securing a future for his men, a stable line of work in a nation that might respect them even more than the Republic did. But was that worth the cost? Could Dice justify this to himself, working for a nation which destroyed the lineage of the Republic in the name of an authoritarian regime? This disgust he felt, this revulsion he felt in his gut - if he had to endure this, turned to self-shame, for years? It would destroy him, and Dice imagined the majority of his fellow clones would feel the same way. Was this pledging allegiance to galactic order and its preservation, or turning his back on the order he swore to protect?
Regardless, he couldn't announce these feelings to the emperor. He was cordial enough, but cordiality is dropped quickly by displeased dictators. "I am honored that you would offer me and my men a place in your empire so quickly," Dice said, bowing slightly. "But I cannot accept a line of work in your military. Neither would I want to accept help in securing jobs. We clones operated on earned status and ranks by the end of the war. I talked to my men about this, in case it came up. The consensus was us trying to make our own way in the galaxy. None of us want to fight either, we'll stay in our lane, on our own pocket of land. Your nation has already done us a favor by patching up our ship. That's good enough for me."
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Post by Octavian Delvardus on Jun 4, 2023 15:11:25 GMT -8
A sigh comes from the lips of the Emperor. Truly, what a waste to not have them join the First Order. But these clones had their own will to choose.
As their commander, if you feel that is the right decision, then I will not seek to change it.
Octavian would have enjoyed having such seasoned men to help bolster the ranks of the nation. They represented a pinnacle of a warrior and soldier that was very rare to truly create. Yet it seemed that Dice and his men sought somewhere else in the galaxy. Nonetheless, the Imperial would impart on them some boons that would prove necessary.
I will see to it that your ship is loaded with ample provisions, munitions, and the means to survive. Your databanks will be updated to ensure you know the current state of the galaxy and have intel that will help guide you through the stars, Captain. The galaxy continues to always change after all. I will give you two important notes of info though.
These two notes he'd give of importance were of Mandalore and Kamino.
Mandalore has gone under some changes as of late. We are allied with a clan of theirs, Bralor, who control half of Agamar in joint control with us. They are now known, collectively, as the Mandalorian Assembly. Three Manda'lors have ruled since its inception and they maintain a rather secure boundary within Mandalorian Space.
As for the latter.
Kamino has only recently freed itself from the grips of a Sith nation, the Blackguard Imperium. From what our intelligence knows, they fell due to internal strife and troubles. Although they are fervently isolationists now, they have been met with some... Imperials. There are warlord factions that control systems at the end of the Corellian Run and around the Spice Triangle. Our intelligence is spotty on them, but they are active in the region.
These two planets represented the backbone of Dice's men and their heritage after all. Beyond their allegiance to the Galactic Republic. As Dice may have noticed, many clones, in fact, who retired from service, joined up with the Mandalorians and etched out a living there. Like Venku, who was the son of the Null Commando, Darman, and the Jedi Knight, Tur-Mukan. Even Boba Fett had been Manda'lor and did much for his former clone brethren and Mandalorians in the post Clone War eras that followed.
You will certainly find a place among the stars, Captain. But know that the First Order will always have its door open to you and your men.
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Captain Dice, CT-3949
Member
Posts: 61
Affiliation: N/A; formerly Galactic Republic
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Post by Captain Dice, CT-3949 on Jun 10, 2023 13:59:16 GMT -8
Though the news about the two planets was supremely interesting, he first had to pay his respects to the monarch. "Thank you, Emperor Delvardus, for your aid. Though I can't say for certain where we'll settle, visiting our two homesteads might be a good place to start. I want to wish you good health, I figure ruling a galaxy has its own set of trials. Not many men keep thrones like that for too long. Your father must've been an impressive person, and I'm sad I'll never get to meet him."
Dice considered asking the emperor more questions. He had the ear of a galactic ruler, a position not many could attest to. But in the moment, Dice could conjure no inquiries that he would value more than getting out of the throne room as soon as possible. No matter how hard he tried, he couldn't ignore how much of a defilement having such a room on the galactic capital was. Where there was once a congress of thousands, elected officials coming to agreements on the future of the galaxy, joined by an order of good and righteous peacekeepers - even if some were more wayward than others - now, there was simply one man. One man to rule them all. It was something he just couldn't accept. Something he wanted to get as far away from as possible. He and his brothers had fought and died for democracy. Now, all of it was for naught, and he was presented with the ultimate representation of this tyranny.
The clone captain gave the emperor a bow. "Unless there's more to discuss...?"
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Post by Octavian Delvardus on Jun 10, 2023 16:40:54 GMT -8
At the mention of his father, Octavian would sigh as the young Emperor gazed up and around where they were. Many times, his father had visited here to speak with his commanders and officials on various military matters. Now, it was him, leading and commanding. It was still something that the Imperial was getting used to. Returning his gaze to the clone Dice, Octavian nods his head.
My father was loved by the people. He gave them security, prosperity, and a purpose. From the ruins of Muunilinst, fresh from a Mandalorian attack, he reached out for the stars and grasped them firmly. He brought together the capable and loyal, he commanded at the front, and did his best to create a legacy that would endure.
Octavian would surely not be able to match such deeds. Perhaps, he would be the ruler that would merely ensure the status quo for a greater reign to come. Many a times, the succeeding ruler of the founder is usually less known or forgotten how peaceful and strong the predecessor had made the nation. Yet, even with the Force, Octavian could foresee the shadow that was rising within the Empire, one that had been planned for years now.
I will give one suggestion to you, Captain. Agamar is jointly held, as mentioned, between myself and Clan Bralor. Harini is the most notable of their names and came to represent her clan when my coronation occurred. A meeting between you two might prove its worth in helping find your place in this galaxy.
The least he could do was present an opportunity for Dice without him searching too far or much. Besides, given the reports of Kamino and Mandalore, the Emperor felt Mandalore would be the best place to start and a good chance for Dice and his men. Octavian now turns to Vice-Admiral Vasili.
If Captain Dice takes this suggestion, see to it that his vessel is brought to Agamar safely. The local Mandalorian and Imperial authorities can handle the rest from there. Otherwise, see to it that he is safely escorted through Imperial territories to wherever direction he desires to take. Consider it a good sending off to Captain and his crew.
His hand extends once more to Dice, looking at the commanding officer.
It is unfortunate that we will not have the chance to work together, Captain. However, it was a pleasure to speak with you. Hopefully, some day, we may meet again and continue to be cordial. I would certainly not want a veteran, like you, as an enemy.
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Captain Dice, CT-3949
Member
Posts: 61
Affiliation: N/A; formerly Galactic Republic
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Post by Captain Dice, CT-3949 on Jun 10, 2023 17:01:33 GMT -8
"I imagine you wouldn't," Dice let slip, cursing himself for his edge of pride despite the friendly smile on his face. The captain took the emperor's hand, and shook it. "No offense. I'll take your advice - once I get back to the Victores, I'll set course for Agamar. I'm working with a skeleton crew, might be a good place to pick up new faces and find a path forward. I never got to see Mandalore with my own eyes, but I've always thought of it like a second home anyway. I thank you again for my ship. Good luck with your galaxy." The emperor would quickly notice a restoration of purpose in the clone captain's eyes, something of a plan formulating. Hidden under the mask of humbleness and reservation was new personal resolution.
The captain withdrew his hand, turned around and headed for the door. The sooner he was out of this sacrilege, the better.
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Lucius Vasili
The First Order
"Would you like a lesson in the rules of war?"
Posts: 121
Affiliation: The First Order
Traffic Light: Green
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Post by Lucius Vasili on Jun 12, 2023 5:13:34 GMT -8
--Lucius had been listening intently to the conversation, a hope existing that the clone Captain would agree to the offer that the Emperor presented. Yet, despite these wishes, such an outcome did not come to pass. What was more was the tones the man took with certain sentences. His heart was set on his choice, his beliefs. And what stood before him was all that he stood against. He wouldn't pretend that he could read Octavian's mind and assume that he caught the feelings of Dice, yet played on some hope that they would never cross paths as enemies. The Vice-Admiral did, however, know that this outcome would likely come to pass if he could find a group that stood for what he believed in and was willing to face down the First Order. Should that time come, Vasili would be ready.
As the meeting came to its conclusion and path set before Dice, Lucius gave a salute to the Emperor.--
"Of course, my Lord. I will ensure that he gets there safely and without incident."
--Turning from Octavian and those present, he followed Dice out of the room, silence following them. How did one carry a conversation after the tension that had just existed, even if suppressed by some form of gratitude?--
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Silas Darkstar
Knights of Ren
Posts: 198
Affiliation: Knights of Ren - The Magisterium
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Post by Silas Darkstar on Jan 14, 2024 13:55:21 GMT -8
Belle Époque Cabal
The troop transport touched down upon the landing pad, allowing Myria Horne and her personal guard to disembark and make their way inside to her office. Much like Gar, her own promotion and position within the Empire had afforded her an office and living space of her own. But unlike her co-conspirator, Myria had been less lavish about her office decoration.
Her guards stopped outside of the Office, allowing Myria a moment of privacy as she walked passed the pair of basic couches that served as seating and moved behind her desk. She extracted the pair of lightsabers from her belt then and set them upon the display cabinet behind her chair. The blade of a former Imperial Knight, Yviane, and the blade of a Knight of Ren, Jin. They were interesting artefacts for which Myria had little person use. However they made a statement about her skills and she was not letting Gar add another item to his already bloated collection.
As she sat admiring the pair of blades, she couldn't help but feel a sense of foreboding danger.
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