Jack Pine
Archduke of the NDC
- Joined
- Nov 3, 2021
- Messages
- 38
- Reaction score
- 22
Medusa Subsector - NDC space
Outer Rim - Kilo Star System - Adrasteia Tower(station)
The massive space colony tower known as Adrasteia Tower, loomed over the nearest planet, casting a grand shadow upon its surface. The gleaming tower, bustled with life, from all over the system. From the wealthiest of merchants, to the poorest dock worker. All seemed to thrive on the surface, most outsiders would know little of the inner workings of the tower's denizens. One may even foolishly say they were...happy, though in comparison to the rest of the almost lawless outer rim system, they might be right. The local police had been replaced with guards that adorned the deep crimson red of their nation, despite the usual counter being black. Their hardsuits were gold, showing the black as an accent. The deeper into the Colony ship one might venture, the stronger their presence could be felt.
The private docking bay of the Marquis D'Concillion sat, adorned in NDC colors, again embellishing his favorites, creating a regal yet...dramatic entrance for any who had been requested to meet with the illustrious Marquis. An NDC Noble that few actually ever met, the man seemed to rule from his "castle on high" only making appearances when it suited him. As time continued on, two ships seemed destined for the private docking Bay, as they came into proper range a message aired. Showing the silhouette of what could only be the Marquis." Welcome to my home tower; Adrasteia, as I am sure you understand my name is Marquis Absolon D'Concillion. I eagerly await our meeting. I do hope you both have brought proper attire. Once landed, you will be escorted to my private abode, do not...make me wait." With his speech finished, so too did the transmission, as guards stood at attention ready to receive their guests.
A squared yet elegant vessel reached the docking bay. A huge emblem on one of the flanks of the ship depicted a laurel with a shield colored in blue and silver, and at the center of such a beautifully stylized iron rose. That was the heraldry of House Von Hassia, a notable and quite rich noble family.
“I still do not understand father...” The shape of a young woman with her arms raised looked upon a large screen showing an old man dressed in noble garments and an iron coronet. He was sitting behind a desk with alot of papers and holo screens surrounding him. “What troubles you more of what I already stated.”
“The Marquis is a respectable man but I do not understand why he needs a representative of our house at his court.” The last words were pronounced with a slight struggle in her voice as another woman reached for her arm to put a piece of armor on it. “My dear, I trained you to become a good knight as you are the third daughter of our family. And yet when I hear such assumptions I question if I should have teached you politics instead.” His tones were not sarcastic but rather sweet and gentle.
“You know well I am not that kind of woman, father.” She answered with a sigh as she heard this type of answer more than a dozen times. “I am well aware…” He slightly nodded, “And for that i’ll make it simple and short…” Again the figure of a second woman reached for her other arm to place another piece of armor. “... Despite being what both local media and the other houses describe his figure, there are many shades that need to be cleared on his personality. I myself, when he helped us recover from that debt, have questioned more than once my alliance with him. I have seen many men in my long life, and that’s why I always felt that his face and behavior was a charade. You, my dear, will help me clear these doubts that I have brought within me for a very long time.” His words had the weight of many more that couldn’t be said.
“It will be my duty father” The woman finally fully clad in armor kneeled towards the screen. “Very well, my dear. Now go Cassandra, and make our house proud.” Those would be the last words from his father for a very long time, the screen shut down right after a moment of silence as the old nobleman looked at his daughter.
The airlocks opened and a young woman who, even behind the plates of her armor, showed a very elegant and fine body, long legs and a petite face adorned by short and white silver hairs. Her posture was stoic with a strong noble vibe. Her green attentive eyes looked all around the structure of the docking bay as she stepped down from the ship.
The last ship to arrive at the private docks of the Marquis is rather out of place amongst the more refined ships that occupy the area. An older freight vessel, originally intended for hauling bulk cargo between the stars, with the seams of extensive refitting work visible just under a new coat of utilitarian grey paint. On a cursory look, the ship bears little interest besides the large emblems painted on either side of the bow, a purple-irised eye on a green shield. Anyone performing a detailed scan of the ship would however notice a number of retrofitted gun ports and boarding tubes carefully covered by new armor plating. The ship hovers just outside the docking bay for a few moments as the pilot considers whether it will fit, and then deciding against it, launches a much smaller parasite shuttle from its rear airlock. The shuttle, not much bigger than a ground transport, and certainly not much more space worthy, plops itself down on stubby landing gear inside the docking bay, as the freighter retreats a short distance to exit the spires traffic patterns.
The shuttle door opens with a hiss, and drops a small ramp to the docking bay, down which a figure in light power armor strides at the earliest opportunity. Karlotte gains her bearings quickly enough, and heads for the nearby guards. She’s worn her best armor for the meeting, a light suit of Steely grey plates, the torso, upper arms, and thighs a golden yellow, with black shoulder, elbow, and kneecaps; three black bands ring her left bicep, a pair of crossed swords above them, befitting her rank as the Captain of a mercenary company, whose shield occupies her right bicep plate. She’s left her helmet on the shuttle, and has braided her ankle length scarlet hair into a large flat plait that hangs down her back, and in two cadennettes at either side of her face. She’s also gone through the rare trouble of putting on makeup, accenting her bright purple eyes with a greenish shadow, heavy black liner, and a bright red lipstick. Mag clasped to her side is her custom built beam pistol, the one weapon she is never without, besides her utility knife; though she would have carried her Hellebarde rifle into the meeting had the Marquis not been such a high Status individual.
„Karlotte, Captain of The Wrathful Gaze company,“ she announces herself to the guards as she approaches, „Let’s not keep the Marquis waiting.“
The guards all snap to attention as a larger man in a much more traditional NDC hardsuit stops, at the docking bays intersecting hall, his face is darker in complexion but his age seems to show, blue eyes that project a hardened look to the two women, both who now are in sight of each other as well as the bald Captain. " Welcome, with pleasantries put on hold, my name is Captain Voteporix, if you would both, follow me, both Lady Von Hassia and Captain Karlotte."
The massive windows on both their port and Starboard side showed first the black void of space from their starboard. And a seemingly vibrant city in its current night cycle. There were few others walking around, and those that could be seen. All hurriedly made space for the guards, standing straight, with their heads down. Before hurriedly returning to their duties. The only peculiarities that could be seen, was a white, valve looking protrusion that showed on their neck. Each person that had been seen could easily be seen with the small apparatus.
At the end of the hallway, stood two large blast doors, again showing the Duskarian colors, as the three continued getting closer, the massive doors hissed before parting into the walls, revealing a large reception room, a shapely young woman sat behind a large dark wooden desk in the middle of the split level room, accompanied on either side by staircases leading to the Marquis' office, whilst behind her, another set of doors to the commons and offices of various bureaucrats. "Welcome, the Marquis will see you both at once. Please continue up the stairs, and do be punctual." The woman smiled briefly, before continuing to work from her terminal.
Karlotte casts a brief glance at Lady Von Hassia, taking in her fine armor, ship, and obvious wealthy upbringing in a moment.
The Marquis is sure to have something big in mind, to summon both my company and a nobles retinue. She thinks, before turning her attention to Captain Voteporix’s arrival. She nods her assent and motions Lady Hassia forwards with a curt nod and a smile towards her. The denizens of the station interest her very little as they pass by, she spared only a few moments of thought for their strange attachments before returning her attention to the others. From behind she observes the way both the captain and Lady Hassia walk, move, where they look, how they react to the people crossing their path, and most importantly; how they each hold themselves. Her hands remain politely folded behind her back, and her armor clicks and whirrs softly as it adjusts to the artificial gravity of the installation.
The massive reception room surprises her somewhat, she hadn’t expected such an ostentatious use of the limited space on board an orbital platform. She lingers behind at the threshold, looking about the room, before following towards the receptionist. She nods along to the receptionists' well rehearsed instructions.
„I'm surprised he will take us both at once,“ she muses out loud as she heads for the stairs, her armored boots clicking on the polished floors. She taps on the small screen built into her left vambrace, flicking through her notes, and readjusting a few values on her standard hiring contract.
Cassandra gave a brief glance to the mercenary as she came out from the ship, the grumpy expression of the knight was betrayed by a hint of interest in the armor Karlotte was wearing. As the two were approached by the captain she gestured a very soldierly salute together with a short “Sure will.” In response to the invitation of Voteporix to follow him.
As they walked through the station, the landsknecht would notice how Cassandra moved in a both elegant and martial way, keeping her hand rested on the pommel of her sword as the other arm slightly waved at each step, of which were very precise and calculated. Only the eyes would betray her formal behavior as they look attentively at the valves behind the necks of the servitude. She didn’t understand why everyone had that implant, it was very strange as in her manor and in many others she visited such a thing was absent. But one thing was for sure, she will not let the marquis infest that protrusion on her neck.
At the point when the trio reached the reception room, her petite face was traced by a very concerned look which entirely substituted her somewhat grumpy standard expression. Her lips were tight and her emerald green eyes wary of the surroundings. She wasn’t that impressed by the grandeur of the hall as she saw such in many other noble estates.
Cassandra gave a brief nod at the receptionist, and continued to walk towards the stairs. Her silence though was interrupted by Karlotte’s question “Most probably the Marquis desires to address both of us as personal guards. Otherwise I do not understand why a mercenary should walk alongside me on my first day on the lord station. I’ve been appointed as a bodyguard.” She answered plainly but her mind betrayed her as she whispered to herself “What is off it’s something else.”
The stairway led up to yet another set of ornate blast doors. The older captain stood at the base of the left most stairwell looking back briefly to ensure the pair were keeping up in a timely manner. As they reached the top of the stairwell, the doors opened, revealing a room draped in red, contrasting the dark mahogany and brass of the tables, desk and chair. Real wood, a rarity in these times. Behind the ornate desk, was a rather plain looking man with tired eyes. His clothing was also rather basic. A simple suit made with fine cloth. The closest wall was covered with a variety of neatly organized swords in many different shapes and sizes, some seeming older than even Hassan and the exodus. „Welcome, my esteemed guests. Do forgive me for not standing, but I'd like us to get right down to brass tacks if you will." The man gestured to the seats in front of his desk." I require a protection detail and more so a captain of my guard. Since both of you will be working alongside one another, I asked for this to be a joint meeting. Lady Von Hassia, I was surprised to see your response. Your father has seen me as a threat. I hope you'll come to see I am no threat to the Conclave." His eyes wandered to the violet eyed Mercenary." As for you Captain, thank you for coming. I'd request your expertise and that of your Company. A...long-term contract if you will. To protect my person, while Lady Von Hassia assists me as a Captain of the guard and my right hand. Having a knight in the public eye will help deter more than its fair share, whilst a ruthless and efficient company can be used to protect my person...with few strings attached." His eyebrow raised briefly before sitting back in his chair, taking a light colored cigarette from the small silver book on his desk, igniting the end with a snap of his fingers, before exhaling a deeper reddish smoke.
Karlotte ignores Cassandra as they climb the stairs, finalizing her changes to her company's standard hiring contract. She flicks off the display on her forearm as they hit the top of the stairs, and watches the blast doors swing silently open. She strides forwards into the room, her eyes scanning everything for both threats and to gauge how the Marquis presents himself. The simple beauty of the room, especially when compared to the appearance of the Marquis himself disappoints her somewhat; she had been expecting grand draperies, fountains, a half dozen servants standing to attention, gold filigree, and other sumptuousities she’s seen in other nobles‘ offices. Her full attention falls on the Marquis as he speaks, taking in his simple dress and his lack of obvious Badges of Rank. She takes the seat offered to her, the chair groaning slightly as she settles her armored mass into it, leaning back and crossing one leg over the other.
„Of course my company is available for bodyguard duty,“ she replies matter of factly as He finishes, „one hundred well armored men and women with the weaponry to meet anything within reason. But you knew that already when you contacted me. I’ve sent the hiring contract over to you on the way in, so we can go over the finer details whenever you like.“ She smiles sweetly, a well practiced expression. Already in her head she’s tallying up the costs and risks of taking over a bodyguard position, especially for a man in such an interesting position in the sector.
„But, you should know, before we really negotiate anything, that I’m only interested in working for you for as long as you can pay me. If your competitors offer me higher, I’ll give you a chance to match it, but that’s as far as my loyalty goes.“ Her foot taps on the floor occasionally, a soft clunk of metal on metal. Her smile holds, and her eyes are locked onto his. Having the knight present is an annoyance for negotiation, and will certainly block her from using some of her more underhanded negotiation techniques on the Marquis.
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The noble knight wasn’t expecting a reply, but she kept looking around in a contained manner, turning her head slightly left and right, giving the impression of someone interested in inspecting the building, and to an extent she was.
While the mercenary kept walking normally after entering inside the room, the young Cassandra, groomed in a world of nobility and officiality, was shocked on seeing the Marquis in such plain clothes, considering how important his position was. For a brief moment she hesitated right at the entrance, her eyes wide open by the surprise, then she remembered all the duties and the codes of a knight. Judging by the appearance was a manner of the court not of the military and even if she came from both worlds, now she had to represent only one of these.
With rapid and composed steps recuperated the brief distance with the mercenary. And right before coming near the chairs she made a short but martial bow, unsheathing her sword to bring the blade in front of her eyes and then bow. But that doesn’t mean she didn’t hear what the marquis said, giving her a rather confused glance towards the nobleman *How does he know?*. The young and good looking knight took a seat, her hands resting on her legs, while she waited for Karlotte to finish. “I am here as an act of friendship between our two houses, to repay the debt that weighs on my father’s honor. But fear not Marquis, his words do not negate my duties neither impede them. Besides, there are more worrisome houses that deserve to be checked. For what I personally am aware of, you served righteously your obligations as a lord.”
She spoke frankly even if she had not the ranks to actually give a judgment to his actions, and also hiding the real weight of what her father said right before entering the station.
The tired man watched the knight carefully as his eyes jumped from Karlotte to Cassandra." Firstly, Captain...your contract will include being seen as an auxiliary to the NDC military, you will be given an officers rank and access to the Stations Armory, your company will receive a retrofit and one small ship to add to your arsenal. After which we will privately discuss funds. Seeing as I'd like to keep the utmost professionalism with you." Standing from his desk, he walked to the table under the display of blades, grabbing from a crystal decanter, pouring the deep red liquid into three tumblers before placing one in front of each of his guests. "I assure you Captain, your time will be well compensated, as for you lady Von Hassia, I mean no disrespect, but information is key in both war and politics. I'll also need to meet with you in private to ensure you understand your position and duties. I am not one to mince my words." He spoke almost playfully, before sipping the dark red brandy-wine, with a satisfied smile. "I hope you both enjoy your stay and employment, now….are there any questions for me?" His words were curt, matter-of-fact, not keeping to the decorum of anything other than a shrewd information broker.
Karlotte smiles warmly at the Marquis‘ words, the sounds of an advantageous contract always lifting her spirits. She takes the tumbler as it’s set in front of her and swirls the dark liquid around as she thinks for a moment, her eyes never leaving the Marquis.
„I think that you've made the terms sound favorable enough so far,“ she says as he finishes, „based on what you’ve said, I’m happy to continue our negotiations in private.“ she casts a sidelong glance at the Knight, both happy to be free of the constraints of having another person present and curious as to what the knight’s own meeting would entail. She leans back in her chair, and balances the tumbler of wine on her knee as she taps on the screen on her forearm.
„The only question I have for you now is; who do you want to meet with first? I will of course, bow to the higher standing of the Lady, but you sound eager to get my troops into service, and they’ll stay where they are until our contract is finalized. You understand of course.“ she smiles again, and takes the tumbler back into her hand, the soft inner tips of her armored fingers tapping gently on the crystal.
Cassandra remained calm, with her slightly grumpy expression not dictated by any annoyances as it was her usual look. This until, first the Marquise then Karlotte putting pressure on her. At first she remained stuck, froze in her pose, before widening her eyes in preoccupation on what the Marquise invitation could have implied. The fear of those cybernetic grafting being forcefully implanted into her was something she tried to repress all the way during the discussion. And even if the captain in her manners was enticing something completely different if not erothic, the young knight felt that as if all the eyes were focused on what she was going to answer.
She looked down as Karlotte kept talking, some could even think because of embarrassment. The whole situation seemed relaxed unless for Cassandra, which right after the mercenary finished, she raised her glance. Her beautiful emerald eyes adorned by a sinister glimmer as her petite face was traced by a serious if not angry look. “With all the respects Marquise, but if our private discussion is the pretext to implant that metal valve in my neck. I have to refuse the invitation.”
She said it, she finally said it. She couldn’t bear anymore the weight of those worries. Even if she didn’t fully comprehend the purpose of those cybernetic implants, her inner self finally gave a sigh of relief, as she now was ready to face any possible outcome.
The man raised an eyebrow, at the young knights brash comment. His gaze quickly falling back to Karlotte." I must apologize Captain. But it seems Lady Von Hassia requires an immediate correction and explanation. If you would be so kind as to wait in the Foyér, I will call for you." His whole body turned from lady Von Hassia, sitting back at his desk with a deep, mildly agitated sigh. Not waiting a moment longer." You seem to forget your place Cassandra. No you are not indentured like many are, part of their contracts are to add an upgraded Geist system, that monitors full body health, function and most importantly mental stress. Their bodies and minds do not belong to themselves they are property of the Nation and myself. You are indentured due to your father's shortcomings as a business man, and as a Noble. There is no need for you to have such a system." His eyes never leaving the young knight. The calm and tired demeanor seemed to leave the man as he stood up straight, his voice sounding more clear, so as to emphasize every word.
" Cassandra Von Hassia, Knight Errant of the New Dusk Conclave. Daughter of a minor Noble house. Pilot of a personal mech. Zero combat victories, and only minor patrols. Do not forget, here you are a soldier before you are a Noble. The Honor was bestowed upon you, with the trust that you would carry your tenants of the Chivalric order of knights, serving Duskarian houses no? Then cast aside your family squabble and begin your duty as a Knight under the service of the Marquis Absolon D'Concillion of Adrasteia Tower." The man stood in front of her, his ringed hand extended out, in anticipation for the young knight to kneel and take her Oath once again." All can and will become clear if you swear fealty to me. You will see the truth."
Karlotte Stands from her seat and sets the untouched wine back on the Marquis‘ desk. She bows low with a flourish of her arm, a few strands of her red hair falling past her face. She tilts her head up and looks at the Marquis with a smile, her eyes shining.
„Of course. I understand my lord,“ her tone is sultry, almost playful „I will await your attention in the foyer.“
She straightens again, and turns on her heel, brushing her hair away from her face with one hand. As she walks back towards the doors of the office, she turns and smiles at Cassandra, a little pant of sympathy going through her at the verbal lashing she is sure will be delivered. The heavy doors to the office close behind her as the Marquis takes his seat, and she breaths a heavy sigh, dropping her shoulders as she relaxes a little from the stuffy atmosphere of the office. She taps away again at her wrist Tablet as she walks down the long stairway towards the reception desk, reviewing the notes she had been taking during the meeting.
Satisfied with her compilations, she closed the Tablets display at the bottom of the stairs, and wanders over to lean over the desk of the receptionist, her hands on the edge and fixing the girl with a friendly gaze. „Hello there, we didn’t have a chance to meet properly earlier. I am Karlotte, Captain of the Wrathful Gaze, and it looks like I’ll be sticking around here for awhile; so I thought it best to come and say hello.“ her voice is soft, and she smiles at the girl warmly.
Meanwhile on the other side of the door, Cassandra in total silence looked at the Marquis without giving any other hint of change in her expression. His words both were reassuring and terrifying, if from one point she felt relieved by the fact that her being a noble would have avoided getting that implant even if by his description wasn’t harmful. On the other side all the people she have seen in that base meant they were all slaves rather than servants, if for a external eye that dividing line was very small, for her it was worrisome.
She couldn’t leave though, she had to dig even more on that matter, as her father ordered. The lord’s lecture was in truth a good snap to remind her the duties of a knight, and if she had to serve him she would have to throw away the fears that led her to pronounce those words.
Right after the Marquis finished, the young knight rose from her seat and reached for him, kneeling and raising her hand to gently accompany his one towards her smooth and hearty lips.
But before kissing, she raised her head to meet the eyes of the lord. “ I, Cassandra Von Hassia, first daughter and third heir of the House Von Hassia, knight of the Wyvern Order, swear loyalty to the House D'Concillion and its ruler, until my duties as a knight are fulfilled.” Her sweet voice sounded very determined. A soft kiss on his House Ring was all that sealed the contract, as she released the lord’s hand.
The man retracted his hand slowly, looking down to the softly spoken knight." Then rise, Lady Von Hassia. You will do well to remember you place and duty here. For your father and families sake. I'd hate to have to cease funding their operations. I know he is barely afloat yet again. Prove to me that you can be trusted, you knights normally are sworn soldiers and nobles, however I believe you have spent far too little time among soldiers. You will spend the next month in the Barracks with the rest of the guard. A stark reminder of where you stand." His eyes narrowed." Now leave, gather your things from your shuttle and call in lady Karlotte."
The young woman smiled brightly to Karlotte." It is a pleasure to meet you my lady, my name is Lidia, I am the Marquis secretary, ensuring business matters are handled. If you have any questions about either your stay, or any accommodations provided, I'd be happy to Oblige." Her demeanor stayed the same, keeping a smile and professional demeanor.
Outside the station, a craft approached. It was an assault shuttle, larger and more heavily armored and armed than your typical fare. On its hull was an emblem of a howling wolf, flames erupting from its muzzle, all of it imposed on a kite shield which bore a four quadrant pattern in bi-color: Orange and Red. This was the personal shuttle of a knight whom most would have sought to avoid seeing, if they knew their history of the Last Hassani War.
On board the shuttle, the woman couldn't help but let the corner of her mouth curl up into an amused smirk as she stood over the pilot's shoulder, a position she usually took when approaching a destination, and watched the colonial tower come into view. "My my, you sure do know how to make a statement, don't you Marquis?" The woman mused aloud, her canine ears twitching in her amusement, whilst her tail wagged behind her in her barely bridled joy.
"Ma'am, we've been granted clearance to Bay 7-Victor." The pilot reported, not even turning his head to look at her. His gaze, obscured as it was by the helmet he wore, was focused entirely on his job. Glances down at his control panel, while the majority of the time he focuses on his alignment and position with the good ol' mark one eyeball. With help from the Geist of course.
"Right." Karen said, nodding as she stepped out of the cockpit. She knew better than to distract her pilot and his co. They all served in the Last War together after all. The dozen people in the troop bay rattled around like peas in a pod due to the space. These craft were designed to hold 30 men or women, bulked up by urban assault combat armor. But all twelve of these people were her's. Veterans, every one of them. Loyal to her as well. But most importantly, they were all the same kind of person she was. They couldn't just leave the battlefield. They felt too alive while kicking in a door and clearing a house.
Those who knew their history, knew that Karen 'Kereberos' A Lángok was one of the few La Rinascita Juanta genemods to truly excel in the war. And she loved every second of the war too. Sure, some claimed she had screws loose. She didn't care. And since she loved the shock and awe she got whenever she blew a door off it's hinges and the people inside realized it was her, well, she had taken steps after the war, and her awakening on Sirris II, to help sell that.
Now she was what she lovingly referred to as a 'Hellhound' genemod. Having gotten further mods to give her a more aggressive looking visage that when framed by the light behind her stepping through a door, with whiffs of fire escaping her mouth as she gleefully stared at her soon to be victims.
"Alright you louts, we all know the rumors. And if the rumors are true, well, this Marquis fellow will be the kind of guy we all would love to serve under. After all, a chance to do what we love once more? Who the fuck would pass that up!?" She said, getting large grins from her retinue and a couple of them howling in their piss poor hound imitations. But Karen didn't care, they all knew that it was their 'thing'. "Now buckle in. We're landing in one of the important shuttle bays. Near the top of the whole Tower."
As Absolon began to admonish, the young knight. He stopped briefly, the beeping coming from a terminal on his desk meant only one thing. Another knight had responded to his call. With a satisfied look on the man he narrowed his eyes at Cassandra before walking back to the desk, pressing the terminal. "Captain Voteporix, see to it that Lady Von Hassia is escorted back to her shuttle for now. And once we know, inform me of the knight's IFF code, I am curious as to what family they belong to." His hand pressed another spot on the terminals screen. "Lidia, please call the Captain up. I am ready for her." As his hand left the terminal, the gruff voice of Voteporix came over the communication channel.
"As you wish Marquis, I am almost to the door, we will ensure the Lady knight retrieves her items from her shuttle. Our Docking teams inform me they have the IFF code for an older model Assault Shuttle, the code belongs to a Lady A Lángok, better known as 'Kereboros'." The Marquis smirked as he made his way to the door, opening it while ushering the lady Von Hassia out, and away with the assistance of the Captain Voteporix, Absolon stood at the banister looking down to the Mercenary Captain.
"Captain Karlotte, I believe we have much to discuss and little time to do so. The current ship who has responded is a rather capable knight. One I believe you will get along swimmingly with. Now please come inside, we must speak properly." His final words echoed down to the main foyer, where Lidia nodded to Karlotte, as if to motion her upstairs with a smile. The Marquis disappeared back into the room without another word. Returning to his communications terminal.
"Docking bay 7-Victor, Assault Shuttle Kereboros. Welcome to Adrasteia Tower, my home and hopefully yours soon. Lady A Lángok, once you have arrived, my attendants will show you to my office. I look forward to our meeting." His finger lifted as the man leaned against the desk in anticipation of the Mercenary Captain and now, the crazed Hellhound of the Hassani War.
As the shuttle settled into the docking clamps to house it, Karen made sure to straighten her outfit. Sure, she would have loved to walk around decked out in her field kit, but that was the wrong image to present. The outfit was in the tones and cuts that seemed popular with most of the knights and nobles of the NDC. Seeing the guards walking up, she quirked an eyebrow, but was only unsurprised.
"I wasn't expecting such a greeting from just arriving." She said, giving a small wave to the guards approaching her. The man in question seemed to be harried, probably due to the suddenness of her and her retinue's arrival. As the man reached her, promptly saluting as they did so.
"Lady A Lángok. I'll escort you to the Marquis' office." He said, as Karen returned the salute. Giving him a nod and a gesture, she followed him through the corridors of the station. She noticed the valve's on the population, but merely shrugged. She could think of little to no reason for them, but she wasn't going to judge. Who knows, might be one of the lovely quirks that the Marquis had.
The halls were pleasant, that much was true. Mostly functional, occasionally ornate, which was tasteful to Karen's own views. Soon reaching the reception room, she gave a nod to the receptionist as she was directed up to the office itself.
It seemed unexpected guests were abound this day, as one more shuttle was coming up. This one was a smaller taxi shuttle from the surface, a civilian craft marked as carrying a VIP. The ID was sent to traffic control just shortly before its appearance on scanners, a colony knight, but with royal credentials. This was a truly rare occurrence as those trained and selected between the cores and colonies, were vastly different. The story behind such an individual must be interesting, and was infamous for a very different reason then compared to Karen.
“Andraeste Tower, This Sir Trager answering the call of Lord Absolon D'Concillion. I have come to offer my services as a royally ordained knight, recently transferred to the colonies. Please reply haste fully, I do not wish to keep your master waiting.” ,came the rough and filtered voice of the knight in question. Sitting on the uncomfortable shuttle bench, he had no private craft, only his uniform, blades, sidearm, and the arming sword module of his once assigned mech. No skin was exposed, his head covered with a full mask and helmet as one.
Perhaps this will be the final stop for my contemplation and service. I look forward to seeing how this lord measures up to his reputation. If he shall not take my service based on past stigma, then I shall find another. But I'm sure he shall see the value of my life and service with all the information I hold privy to. Trager thought to himself as the shuttle drew ever nearer to its grand and imposing destination.
Karlotte turns up towards the Marquis with a parting smile at the receptionist, and chirps a „Right away my Lord,“ in response to his resummons. She steps quickly up the stairs, careful not to appear desperate or build up to any sort of exertion. She smiles at Lady Von Hassia and Voteporix as she passes them; a fleeting thing devoid of any true emotion. As soon as she reaches the doors to the chamber she slips in, shutting them behind her with a soft click. Stopping beside the chair she had previously occupied, she bows low, one arm sweeping out to the side as the other hand is held to her breast, her braid falling down over her shoulder to hang by her face as she looks up at the Marquis with undisguised anticipation of their quickened discussion: something which has almost always favored her in the past.
„I am at your service. If I have not misunderstood, then you are ready to finalize our contract,“ she smiles again as she straightens and steps forwards to lean over his desk, her hands on the edge and her eyes fixed on his, „it won’t take long I’m sure for a man with your, resources.“
The Marquis bowed back to the Mercenary, before stepping to the wall adorned with blades, his hand pressing against the wood frame, before the wall behind the desk, became translucent. Slowly the wall lifted, and a seemingly younger man, of similar stature to the Marquis stood from a smaller desk, his dark olive skin contrasted by the lotus tattoo that crept up his neck from the front. A fine tailored suit made of the finest materials the tower had to offer adorned his body, his jet black hair was in a long, low set ponytail. As a white glove drew a lightly colored cigarette from a case on the smaller desk, the Marquis quickly rushed over to light the cigarette.
As the man inhaled, he exhaled an orange hued cloud of sweet smelling smoke. Piercing crimson red eyes glowed through the cloud as he began walking toward the Captain. "Since I take it you have agreed to our deal, let me properly introduce myself." He spoke properly, with an almost aloofness in his voice." I am truly Marquis Absolon D'Concillion, this is my body double Marco." a gloved hand waved slowly in Marco's direction as he left the room from an exit behind the false wall. Holding a finger to his lips, the marquis slowly pressed his finger to the comms terminal." Lord Trager, and Lady A Lángok please enter my chamber, post haste." Looking back up to Karlotte he smirked taking another long drag from the cigarette." The funds are ready to transfer now, and the shuttle, armor and weapon systems are all staged. What more would you like?"
The door opened behind Karlotte and in strode the Lady A Lángok in question. If she had a jacket on, she'd have had both hands in it's pockets before raising on hand and giving a "Yo." to the both of them. "Nice set up you've got here Lord Absolon." She said, with a grin, tail wagging behind her. She found an empty seat and settled into it. If there was one thing to be said about Karen's mindset, it's that she never really 'adopted' the more formal elements of being a Knight herself. She was just as crass and abrasive as she had been in the war, when she had effectively been at the bottom of the totem pole. "So, heard you were looking to get some new retainers to help keep troublemakers in line. Figured I'd offer up me and my retinue. All thirteen of us urban warfare specialists, veterans of the Last War, and oh so very eager to get ourselves knee deep in some good ol' fashioned street clearing work." She offered up, since she had a feeling the redhead in the room was probably jockeying for a similar position.
Karlotte straightens as the Marquis turns from her to approach the wall, a look of confusion passing across her face. As the wall Fades and the room beyond is revealed, along with its occupant, she fights the urge to draw her beam pistol, her fingers twitching on the top of the desk. Her narrowed eyes take in the man, quickly covering his whole body as she measures him up. Of course the Marquis would hide himself from prospectives until they had shown their own hands; most nobles, she figured, would do something similar if they could pull it off. She leans forwards again, not quite resting her weight on the desk.
„If everything is ready to go,“ she says, her voice a little warmer now, „then I just need to know what you want me to do.“ her left hand comes up to fiddle with her braid, flipping it over her wrist and around her armored fingers as she locks eyes with him.
„We can discuss special rewards and duties once you’re satisfied with my work.“
As the door behind her opens, the exhale through her teeth is unmistakably annoyed. She had hoped for a few more minutes to explore this new secretive Marquis‘ personality. She turns from the Marquis and fixes her gaze on the hound entering the room. Her lip curls at the edge and her brow knits as she tries to not let a look of disgust cross her face. Instead she crosses her arms and moves over to the side, letting the space in front of the desk remain open for the newcomer. A puff of steam hisses out of the small vents on her calves as her armor cycles its power supply.
„My Lord,“ she asks coldly, „do you want me to remain for your discussion with this, dog?“
"Hey now, I'm no 'dog'. I'm a 'Hellhound' thank you very much." Karen replied, huffing slightly, letting some flames escape her mouth, though not enough to risk her rather nice and fancy outfit catch any actual fire from the act.
The olive skinned man raised an eyebrow looking to the Mercenary Captain first, then to the genemod knight." Captain, Lady A Lángok here has an impressive Resume from the Hassani conflict. She is a true Hellhound. Though I can tell you show disdain for her kind. She herself has shown her use, and is an absolute Asset. See her the next time we need to stop an insurgency on this station. Go tend to your men and your new toys, and keep your terminal close."
His crimson eyes locked onto Karen before Smirking."Yes Lady A Lángok, you have a place here. Welcome to Adrasteia tower. I'll ask for you to swear your Oath of fealty when you are ready."
"You got it sir. I hope you don't need me doing any fancy kind of swearing or that sort. Plus, if the Captain really wants to see what we can do, I'm sure a man like yourself has a few people in need of some good ol' shock and awe?" Karen said, a very eager smirk crossing her features as she did so, eyes glinting in delight at the idea of getting to cut loose so soon.
The Marquis took another drag from his cigarette, with a smirk." Do not forget that we must reflect the positions we both hold, hellhound. So yes I do and will expect the pomp and circumstance of our positions will be respected. We are waiting for one more knight, who is on his way. Once I have most of you here we can begin talking shop if you will." He smirked deviously blowing another cloud into the air.
Leaving his arming sword module with the receptionist, the knight wasted no time in entering the office, knowing full well he was expected. The masked head of Trager took in the few present in the room, “I must say, you are wasting no time in building up your circles Lord D'Concillion. I see that I have chosen wisely for seeking service under your banner with this level of initiative. Sir Trager, previously Sir Trager of the royal knighthood, and now of the colonial knighthood.”, he greeted formally with a honorific bow before standing at attention.
The Marquis met the man with a bow in kind, before taking another drag of his cigarette. Exhaling another cloud he smirked devilishly." One could say that Sir Trager, however. Politics are much like duels. Information is the key to success. It is why I was expecting you, how have you enjoyed the outer colonies?" The Marquis' crimson eyes locked onto the masked knight, before looking around the room." You all have your specialties, your areas of expertise. Kereboros, is a close quarters shock and awe specialist, Trager is a master at pulling strings, Karlotte serves as a guard captain and excellent body guard. While the young lady Von Hassia is resolute in her beliefs to follow the teachings of the chivalric code. You all, from this day forward will serve me, and better our tower for our people and ourselves. However, we see fit. Am I understood?"
Karen sighed as the Marquis pointed out she had to at least play the role of a knight, even if she legitimately thought some of the hoopla and rituals were kind of silly. Still, when the last knight arrived, she eyed him sidelong to get a gauge of him. She couldn't say she was impressed with his talk, or his appearance. But then, she also knew that sometimes the most dangerous foes were the ones who looked the least threatening.
"Yes sir. Me and my retinue stand at the ready to act upon your orders, to thusly prevent rebellious groups from gaining too great a foothold." Karen said, giving a bit of a formal bow of her head as she spoke.
The Marquis smirked rather happily. Lighting another cigarette, he inhaled the orange smoke dancing around him upon his exhale his red eyes glowing through." Sit down you two. I need to inform you of our first mission. Unfortunately for them I will not allow this cancer to fester in my systems." His eyes became more serious as the tan skinned man came back around the desk hitting a key on the touchpad showing a world. "This is the planet of Heilis, the homeworld of the other young knight in my retinue. It would seem a terrorist cell is actively planning a coup against their governing executive; Jeremiah the fifth stilker. I will personally join this excursion to lead this team. To show these backwater ungrateful cattle, that you do not cast stones and the crown. And more importantly here…me. Sir Trager, your personal data pad will be updated with all of our information gathering and previous exploits on Heilis. Hellhound my dear. Gather your men for true shock and awe. Make sure to adjust your insignia. Fly your own heraldry but make sure they know who you fight for."
Absolon stepped around the desk to the map." The capital is here." A gloved finger fell upon the globe." They will be attempting this soon. And there is nothing I hate more than loose ends. Your rules of engagement are shock and awe, overwhelming force. Let's show these savages why they revere our nation and myself." As he spoke a devilish grin fell upon his Visage looking over his now personal knights.
Karen grinned, a puff of flame escaping her mouth. "Oh, we'll be the most shock and awe motherfuckers this world will have ever seen." She said, eager to get to work hearing that.
"If I may be so bold milord, but may I request the sourcing of my frame be expedited? I would like to get it fitted, a suite for EWS and Intel added, and source trustworthy personnel for my work with the timetable provided. Information is my job, as well as keep it's reins tight for when it is needed. Also showing the locals how a knight commands presence as a frame runner, shall… humble them, to what they must ascend to." What Trager said seemed measured, even as he began to look through the contents in the offered pad.
With a slight pause, Trager thought to add briefly, "Also never hurts to have a titan of armor and advanced weapons for castle toppling."
With a sly smirk, now concealed through another brief cloud of smoke, the Marquis chuckled to himself." You are all so eager, I thoroughly will enjoy this. I will send both of my knights that are frame pilot's, a list of our current stock. And you Lady A Lángok. Have already been added to the armory's access list. Do leave some for my men." With that said, it would seem the curtain would fall on the groups inevitable meeting. Now it was time to prepare for what could only be referred to as a, police action.
Outer Rim - Kilo Star System - Adrasteia Tower(station)
The massive space colony tower known as Adrasteia Tower, loomed over the nearest planet, casting a grand shadow upon its surface. The gleaming tower, bustled with life, from all over the system. From the wealthiest of merchants, to the poorest dock worker. All seemed to thrive on the surface, most outsiders would know little of the inner workings of the tower's denizens. One may even foolishly say they were...happy, though in comparison to the rest of the almost lawless outer rim system, they might be right. The local police had been replaced with guards that adorned the deep crimson red of their nation, despite the usual counter being black. Their hardsuits were gold, showing the black as an accent. The deeper into the Colony ship one might venture, the stronger their presence could be felt.
The private docking bay of the Marquis D'Concillion sat, adorned in NDC colors, again embellishing his favorites, creating a regal yet...dramatic entrance for any who had been requested to meet with the illustrious Marquis. An NDC Noble that few actually ever met, the man seemed to rule from his "castle on high" only making appearances when it suited him. As time continued on, two ships seemed destined for the private docking Bay, as they came into proper range a message aired. Showing the silhouette of what could only be the Marquis." Welcome to my home tower; Adrasteia, as I am sure you understand my name is Marquis Absolon D'Concillion. I eagerly await our meeting. I do hope you both have brought proper attire. Once landed, you will be escorted to my private abode, do not...make me wait." With his speech finished, so too did the transmission, as guards stood at attention ready to receive their guests.
A squared yet elegant vessel reached the docking bay. A huge emblem on one of the flanks of the ship depicted a laurel with a shield colored in blue and silver, and at the center of such a beautifully stylized iron rose. That was the heraldry of House Von Hassia, a notable and quite rich noble family.
“I still do not understand father...” The shape of a young woman with her arms raised looked upon a large screen showing an old man dressed in noble garments and an iron coronet. He was sitting behind a desk with alot of papers and holo screens surrounding him. “What troubles you more of what I already stated.”
“The Marquis is a respectable man but I do not understand why he needs a representative of our house at his court.” The last words were pronounced with a slight struggle in her voice as another woman reached for her arm to put a piece of armor on it. “My dear, I trained you to become a good knight as you are the third daughter of our family. And yet when I hear such assumptions I question if I should have teached you politics instead.” His tones were not sarcastic but rather sweet and gentle.
“You know well I am not that kind of woman, father.” She answered with a sigh as she heard this type of answer more than a dozen times. “I am well aware…” He slightly nodded, “And for that i’ll make it simple and short…” Again the figure of a second woman reached for her other arm to place another piece of armor. “... Despite being what both local media and the other houses describe his figure, there are many shades that need to be cleared on his personality. I myself, when he helped us recover from that debt, have questioned more than once my alliance with him. I have seen many men in my long life, and that’s why I always felt that his face and behavior was a charade. You, my dear, will help me clear these doubts that I have brought within me for a very long time.” His words had the weight of many more that couldn’t be said.
“It will be my duty father” The woman finally fully clad in armor kneeled towards the screen. “Very well, my dear. Now go Cassandra, and make our house proud.” Those would be the last words from his father for a very long time, the screen shut down right after a moment of silence as the old nobleman looked at his daughter.
The airlocks opened and a young woman who, even behind the plates of her armor, showed a very elegant and fine body, long legs and a petite face adorned by short and white silver hairs. Her posture was stoic with a strong noble vibe. Her green attentive eyes looked all around the structure of the docking bay as she stepped down from the ship.
The last ship to arrive at the private docks of the Marquis is rather out of place amongst the more refined ships that occupy the area. An older freight vessel, originally intended for hauling bulk cargo between the stars, with the seams of extensive refitting work visible just under a new coat of utilitarian grey paint. On a cursory look, the ship bears little interest besides the large emblems painted on either side of the bow, a purple-irised eye on a green shield. Anyone performing a detailed scan of the ship would however notice a number of retrofitted gun ports and boarding tubes carefully covered by new armor plating. The ship hovers just outside the docking bay for a few moments as the pilot considers whether it will fit, and then deciding against it, launches a much smaller parasite shuttle from its rear airlock. The shuttle, not much bigger than a ground transport, and certainly not much more space worthy, plops itself down on stubby landing gear inside the docking bay, as the freighter retreats a short distance to exit the spires traffic patterns.
The shuttle door opens with a hiss, and drops a small ramp to the docking bay, down which a figure in light power armor strides at the earliest opportunity. Karlotte gains her bearings quickly enough, and heads for the nearby guards. She’s worn her best armor for the meeting, a light suit of Steely grey plates, the torso, upper arms, and thighs a golden yellow, with black shoulder, elbow, and kneecaps; three black bands ring her left bicep, a pair of crossed swords above them, befitting her rank as the Captain of a mercenary company, whose shield occupies her right bicep plate. She’s left her helmet on the shuttle, and has braided her ankle length scarlet hair into a large flat plait that hangs down her back, and in two cadennettes at either side of her face. She’s also gone through the rare trouble of putting on makeup, accenting her bright purple eyes with a greenish shadow, heavy black liner, and a bright red lipstick. Mag clasped to her side is her custom built beam pistol, the one weapon she is never without, besides her utility knife; though she would have carried her Hellebarde rifle into the meeting had the Marquis not been such a high Status individual.
„Karlotte, Captain of The Wrathful Gaze company,“ she announces herself to the guards as she approaches, „Let’s not keep the Marquis waiting.“
The guards all snap to attention as a larger man in a much more traditional NDC hardsuit stops, at the docking bays intersecting hall, his face is darker in complexion but his age seems to show, blue eyes that project a hardened look to the two women, both who now are in sight of each other as well as the bald Captain. " Welcome, with pleasantries put on hold, my name is Captain Voteporix, if you would both, follow me, both Lady Von Hassia and Captain Karlotte."
The massive windows on both their port and Starboard side showed first the black void of space from their starboard. And a seemingly vibrant city in its current night cycle. There were few others walking around, and those that could be seen. All hurriedly made space for the guards, standing straight, with their heads down. Before hurriedly returning to their duties. The only peculiarities that could be seen, was a white, valve looking protrusion that showed on their neck. Each person that had been seen could easily be seen with the small apparatus.
At the end of the hallway, stood two large blast doors, again showing the Duskarian colors, as the three continued getting closer, the massive doors hissed before parting into the walls, revealing a large reception room, a shapely young woman sat behind a large dark wooden desk in the middle of the split level room, accompanied on either side by staircases leading to the Marquis' office, whilst behind her, another set of doors to the commons and offices of various bureaucrats. "Welcome, the Marquis will see you both at once. Please continue up the stairs, and do be punctual." The woman smiled briefly, before continuing to work from her terminal.
Karlotte casts a brief glance at Lady Von Hassia, taking in her fine armor, ship, and obvious wealthy upbringing in a moment.
The Marquis is sure to have something big in mind, to summon both my company and a nobles retinue. She thinks, before turning her attention to Captain Voteporix’s arrival. She nods her assent and motions Lady Hassia forwards with a curt nod and a smile towards her. The denizens of the station interest her very little as they pass by, she spared only a few moments of thought for their strange attachments before returning her attention to the others. From behind she observes the way both the captain and Lady Hassia walk, move, where they look, how they react to the people crossing their path, and most importantly; how they each hold themselves. Her hands remain politely folded behind her back, and her armor clicks and whirrs softly as it adjusts to the artificial gravity of the installation.
The massive reception room surprises her somewhat, she hadn’t expected such an ostentatious use of the limited space on board an orbital platform. She lingers behind at the threshold, looking about the room, before following towards the receptionist. She nods along to the receptionists' well rehearsed instructions.
„I'm surprised he will take us both at once,“ she muses out loud as she heads for the stairs, her armored boots clicking on the polished floors. She taps on the small screen built into her left vambrace, flicking through her notes, and readjusting a few values on her standard hiring contract.
Cassandra gave a brief glance to the mercenary as she came out from the ship, the grumpy expression of the knight was betrayed by a hint of interest in the armor Karlotte was wearing. As the two were approached by the captain she gestured a very soldierly salute together with a short “Sure will.” In response to the invitation of Voteporix to follow him.
As they walked through the station, the landsknecht would notice how Cassandra moved in a both elegant and martial way, keeping her hand rested on the pommel of her sword as the other arm slightly waved at each step, of which were very precise and calculated. Only the eyes would betray her formal behavior as they look attentively at the valves behind the necks of the servitude. She didn’t understand why everyone had that implant, it was very strange as in her manor and in many others she visited such a thing was absent. But one thing was for sure, she will not let the marquis infest that protrusion on her neck.
At the point when the trio reached the reception room, her petite face was traced by a very concerned look which entirely substituted her somewhat grumpy standard expression. Her lips were tight and her emerald green eyes wary of the surroundings. She wasn’t that impressed by the grandeur of the hall as she saw such in many other noble estates.
Cassandra gave a brief nod at the receptionist, and continued to walk towards the stairs. Her silence though was interrupted by Karlotte’s question “Most probably the Marquis desires to address both of us as personal guards. Otherwise I do not understand why a mercenary should walk alongside me on my first day on the lord station. I’ve been appointed as a bodyguard.” She answered plainly but her mind betrayed her as she whispered to herself “What is off it’s something else.”
The stairway led up to yet another set of ornate blast doors. The older captain stood at the base of the left most stairwell looking back briefly to ensure the pair were keeping up in a timely manner. As they reached the top of the stairwell, the doors opened, revealing a room draped in red, contrasting the dark mahogany and brass of the tables, desk and chair. Real wood, a rarity in these times. Behind the ornate desk, was a rather plain looking man with tired eyes. His clothing was also rather basic. A simple suit made with fine cloth. The closest wall was covered with a variety of neatly organized swords in many different shapes and sizes, some seeming older than even Hassan and the exodus. „Welcome, my esteemed guests. Do forgive me for not standing, but I'd like us to get right down to brass tacks if you will." The man gestured to the seats in front of his desk." I require a protection detail and more so a captain of my guard. Since both of you will be working alongside one another, I asked for this to be a joint meeting. Lady Von Hassia, I was surprised to see your response. Your father has seen me as a threat. I hope you'll come to see I am no threat to the Conclave." His eyes wandered to the violet eyed Mercenary." As for you Captain, thank you for coming. I'd request your expertise and that of your Company. A...long-term contract if you will. To protect my person, while Lady Von Hassia assists me as a Captain of the guard and my right hand. Having a knight in the public eye will help deter more than its fair share, whilst a ruthless and efficient company can be used to protect my person...with few strings attached." His eyebrow raised briefly before sitting back in his chair, taking a light colored cigarette from the small silver book on his desk, igniting the end with a snap of his fingers, before exhaling a deeper reddish smoke.
Karlotte ignores Cassandra as they climb the stairs, finalizing her changes to her company's standard hiring contract. She flicks off the display on her forearm as they hit the top of the stairs, and watches the blast doors swing silently open. She strides forwards into the room, her eyes scanning everything for both threats and to gauge how the Marquis presents himself. The simple beauty of the room, especially when compared to the appearance of the Marquis himself disappoints her somewhat; she had been expecting grand draperies, fountains, a half dozen servants standing to attention, gold filigree, and other sumptuousities she’s seen in other nobles‘ offices. Her full attention falls on the Marquis as he speaks, taking in his simple dress and his lack of obvious Badges of Rank. She takes the seat offered to her, the chair groaning slightly as she settles her armored mass into it, leaning back and crossing one leg over the other.
„Of course my company is available for bodyguard duty,“ she replies matter of factly as He finishes, „one hundred well armored men and women with the weaponry to meet anything within reason. But you knew that already when you contacted me. I’ve sent the hiring contract over to you on the way in, so we can go over the finer details whenever you like.“ She smiles sweetly, a well practiced expression. Already in her head she’s tallying up the costs and risks of taking over a bodyguard position, especially for a man in such an interesting position in the sector.
„But, you should know, before we really negotiate anything, that I’m only interested in working for you for as long as you can pay me. If your competitors offer me higher, I’ll give you a chance to match it, but that’s as far as my loyalty goes.“ Her foot taps on the floor occasionally, a soft clunk of metal on metal. Her smile holds, and her eyes are locked onto his. Having the knight present is an annoyance for negotiation, and will certainly block her from using some of her more underhanded negotiation techniques on the Marquis.
—-----------------------------------------------------------
The noble knight wasn’t expecting a reply, but she kept looking around in a contained manner, turning her head slightly left and right, giving the impression of someone interested in inspecting the building, and to an extent she was.
While the mercenary kept walking normally after entering inside the room, the young Cassandra, groomed in a world of nobility and officiality, was shocked on seeing the Marquis in such plain clothes, considering how important his position was. For a brief moment she hesitated right at the entrance, her eyes wide open by the surprise, then she remembered all the duties and the codes of a knight. Judging by the appearance was a manner of the court not of the military and even if she came from both worlds, now she had to represent only one of these.
With rapid and composed steps recuperated the brief distance with the mercenary. And right before coming near the chairs she made a short but martial bow, unsheathing her sword to bring the blade in front of her eyes and then bow. But that doesn’t mean she didn’t hear what the marquis said, giving her a rather confused glance towards the nobleman *How does he know?*. The young and good looking knight took a seat, her hands resting on her legs, while she waited for Karlotte to finish. “I am here as an act of friendship between our two houses, to repay the debt that weighs on my father’s honor. But fear not Marquis, his words do not negate my duties neither impede them. Besides, there are more worrisome houses that deserve to be checked. For what I personally am aware of, you served righteously your obligations as a lord.”
She spoke frankly even if she had not the ranks to actually give a judgment to his actions, and also hiding the real weight of what her father said right before entering the station.
The tired man watched the knight carefully as his eyes jumped from Karlotte to Cassandra." Firstly, Captain...your contract will include being seen as an auxiliary to the NDC military, you will be given an officers rank and access to the Stations Armory, your company will receive a retrofit and one small ship to add to your arsenal. After which we will privately discuss funds. Seeing as I'd like to keep the utmost professionalism with you." Standing from his desk, he walked to the table under the display of blades, grabbing from a crystal decanter, pouring the deep red liquid into three tumblers before placing one in front of each of his guests. "I assure you Captain, your time will be well compensated, as for you lady Von Hassia, I mean no disrespect, but information is key in both war and politics. I'll also need to meet with you in private to ensure you understand your position and duties. I am not one to mince my words." He spoke almost playfully, before sipping the dark red brandy-wine, with a satisfied smile. "I hope you both enjoy your stay and employment, now….are there any questions for me?" His words were curt, matter-of-fact, not keeping to the decorum of anything other than a shrewd information broker.
Karlotte smiles warmly at the Marquis‘ words, the sounds of an advantageous contract always lifting her spirits. She takes the tumbler as it’s set in front of her and swirls the dark liquid around as she thinks for a moment, her eyes never leaving the Marquis.
„I think that you've made the terms sound favorable enough so far,“ she says as he finishes, „based on what you’ve said, I’m happy to continue our negotiations in private.“ she casts a sidelong glance at the Knight, both happy to be free of the constraints of having another person present and curious as to what the knight’s own meeting would entail. She leans back in her chair, and balances the tumbler of wine on her knee as she taps on the screen on her forearm.
„The only question I have for you now is; who do you want to meet with first? I will of course, bow to the higher standing of the Lady, but you sound eager to get my troops into service, and they’ll stay where they are until our contract is finalized. You understand of course.“ she smiles again, and takes the tumbler back into her hand, the soft inner tips of her armored fingers tapping gently on the crystal.
Cassandra remained calm, with her slightly grumpy expression not dictated by any annoyances as it was her usual look. This until, first the Marquise then Karlotte putting pressure on her. At first she remained stuck, froze in her pose, before widening her eyes in preoccupation on what the Marquise invitation could have implied. The fear of those cybernetic grafting being forcefully implanted into her was something she tried to repress all the way during the discussion. And even if the captain in her manners was enticing something completely different if not erothic, the young knight felt that as if all the eyes were focused on what she was going to answer.
She looked down as Karlotte kept talking, some could even think because of embarrassment. The whole situation seemed relaxed unless for Cassandra, which right after the mercenary finished, she raised her glance. Her beautiful emerald eyes adorned by a sinister glimmer as her petite face was traced by a serious if not angry look. “With all the respects Marquise, but if our private discussion is the pretext to implant that metal valve in my neck. I have to refuse the invitation.”
She said it, she finally said it. She couldn’t bear anymore the weight of those worries. Even if she didn’t fully comprehend the purpose of those cybernetic implants, her inner self finally gave a sigh of relief, as she now was ready to face any possible outcome.
The man raised an eyebrow, at the young knights brash comment. His gaze quickly falling back to Karlotte." I must apologize Captain. But it seems Lady Von Hassia requires an immediate correction and explanation. If you would be so kind as to wait in the Foyér, I will call for you." His whole body turned from lady Von Hassia, sitting back at his desk with a deep, mildly agitated sigh. Not waiting a moment longer." You seem to forget your place Cassandra. No you are not indentured like many are, part of their contracts are to add an upgraded Geist system, that monitors full body health, function and most importantly mental stress. Their bodies and minds do not belong to themselves they are property of the Nation and myself. You are indentured due to your father's shortcomings as a business man, and as a Noble. There is no need for you to have such a system." His eyes never leaving the young knight. The calm and tired demeanor seemed to leave the man as he stood up straight, his voice sounding more clear, so as to emphasize every word.
" Cassandra Von Hassia, Knight Errant of the New Dusk Conclave. Daughter of a minor Noble house. Pilot of a personal mech. Zero combat victories, and only minor patrols. Do not forget, here you are a soldier before you are a Noble. The Honor was bestowed upon you, with the trust that you would carry your tenants of the Chivalric order of knights, serving Duskarian houses no? Then cast aside your family squabble and begin your duty as a Knight under the service of the Marquis Absolon D'Concillion of Adrasteia Tower." The man stood in front of her, his ringed hand extended out, in anticipation for the young knight to kneel and take her Oath once again." All can and will become clear if you swear fealty to me. You will see the truth."
Karlotte Stands from her seat and sets the untouched wine back on the Marquis‘ desk. She bows low with a flourish of her arm, a few strands of her red hair falling past her face. She tilts her head up and looks at the Marquis with a smile, her eyes shining.
„Of course. I understand my lord,“ her tone is sultry, almost playful „I will await your attention in the foyer.“
She straightens again, and turns on her heel, brushing her hair away from her face with one hand. As she walks back towards the doors of the office, she turns and smiles at Cassandra, a little pant of sympathy going through her at the verbal lashing she is sure will be delivered. The heavy doors to the office close behind her as the Marquis takes his seat, and she breaths a heavy sigh, dropping her shoulders as she relaxes a little from the stuffy atmosphere of the office. She taps away again at her wrist Tablet as she walks down the long stairway towards the reception desk, reviewing the notes she had been taking during the meeting.
Satisfied with her compilations, she closed the Tablets display at the bottom of the stairs, and wanders over to lean over the desk of the receptionist, her hands on the edge and fixing the girl with a friendly gaze. „Hello there, we didn’t have a chance to meet properly earlier. I am Karlotte, Captain of the Wrathful Gaze, and it looks like I’ll be sticking around here for awhile; so I thought it best to come and say hello.“ her voice is soft, and she smiles at the girl warmly.
Meanwhile on the other side of the door, Cassandra in total silence looked at the Marquis without giving any other hint of change in her expression. His words both were reassuring and terrifying, if from one point she felt relieved by the fact that her being a noble would have avoided getting that implant even if by his description wasn’t harmful. On the other side all the people she have seen in that base meant they were all slaves rather than servants, if for a external eye that dividing line was very small, for her it was worrisome.
She couldn’t leave though, she had to dig even more on that matter, as her father ordered. The lord’s lecture was in truth a good snap to remind her the duties of a knight, and if she had to serve him she would have to throw away the fears that led her to pronounce those words.
Right after the Marquis finished, the young knight rose from her seat and reached for him, kneeling and raising her hand to gently accompany his one towards her smooth and hearty lips.
But before kissing, she raised her head to meet the eyes of the lord. “ I, Cassandra Von Hassia, first daughter and third heir of the House Von Hassia, knight of the Wyvern Order, swear loyalty to the House D'Concillion and its ruler, until my duties as a knight are fulfilled.” Her sweet voice sounded very determined. A soft kiss on his House Ring was all that sealed the contract, as she released the lord’s hand.
The man retracted his hand slowly, looking down to the softly spoken knight." Then rise, Lady Von Hassia. You will do well to remember you place and duty here. For your father and families sake. I'd hate to have to cease funding their operations. I know he is barely afloat yet again. Prove to me that you can be trusted, you knights normally are sworn soldiers and nobles, however I believe you have spent far too little time among soldiers. You will spend the next month in the Barracks with the rest of the guard. A stark reminder of where you stand." His eyes narrowed." Now leave, gather your things from your shuttle and call in lady Karlotte."
The young woman smiled brightly to Karlotte." It is a pleasure to meet you my lady, my name is Lidia, I am the Marquis secretary, ensuring business matters are handled. If you have any questions about either your stay, or any accommodations provided, I'd be happy to Oblige." Her demeanor stayed the same, keeping a smile and professional demeanor.
Outside the station, a craft approached. It was an assault shuttle, larger and more heavily armored and armed than your typical fare. On its hull was an emblem of a howling wolf, flames erupting from its muzzle, all of it imposed on a kite shield which bore a four quadrant pattern in bi-color: Orange and Red. This was the personal shuttle of a knight whom most would have sought to avoid seeing, if they knew their history of the Last Hassani War.
On board the shuttle, the woman couldn't help but let the corner of her mouth curl up into an amused smirk as she stood over the pilot's shoulder, a position she usually took when approaching a destination, and watched the colonial tower come into view. "My my, you sure do know how to make a statement, don't you Marquis?" The woman mused aloud, her canine ears twitching in her amusement, whilst her tail wagged behind her in her barely bridled joy.
"Ma'am, we've been granted clearance to Bay 7-Victor." The pilot reported, not even turning his head to look at her. His gaze, obscured as it was by the helmet he wore, was focused entirely on his job. Glances down at his control panel, while the majority of the time he focuses on his alignment and position with the good ol' mark one eyeball. With help from the Geist of course.
"Right." Karen said, nodding as she stepped out of the cockpit. She knew better than to distract her pilot and his co. They all served in the Last War together after all. The dozen people in the troop bay rattled around like peas in a pod due to the space. These craft were designed to hold 30 men or women, bulked up by urban assault combat armor. But all twelve of these people were her's. Veterans, every one of them. Loyal to her as well. But most importantly, they were all the same kind of person she was. They couldn't just leave the battlefield. They felt too alive while kicking in a door and clearing a house.
Those who knew their history, knew that Karen 'Kereberos' A Lángok was one of the few La Rinascita Juanta genemods to truly excel in the war. And she loved every second of the war too. Sure, some claimed she had screws loose. She didn't care. And since she loved the shock and awe she got whenever she blew a door off it's hinges and the people inside realized it was her, well, she had taken steps after the war, and her awakening on Sirris II, to help sell that.
Now she was what she lovingly referred to as a 'Hellhound' genemod. Having gotten further mods to give her a more aggressive looking visage that when framed by the light behind her stepping through a door, with whiffs of fire escaping her mouth as she gleefully stared at her soon to be victims.
"Alright you louts, we all know the rumors. And if the rumors are true, well, this Marquis fellow will be the kind of guy we all would love to serve under. After all, a chance to do what we love once more? Who the fuck would pass that up!?" She said, getting large grins from her retinue and a couple of them howling in their piss poor hound imitations. But Karen didn't care, they all knew that it was their 'thing'. "Now buckle in. We're landing in one of the important shuttle bays. Near the top of the whole Tower."
As Absolon began to admonish, the young knight. He stopped briefly, the beeping coming from a terminal on his desk meant only one thing. Another knight had responded to his call. With a satisfied look on the man he narrowed his eyes at Cassandra before walking back to the desk, pressing the terminal. "Captain Voteporix, see to it that Lady Von Hassia is escorted back to her shuttle for now. And once we know, inform me of the knight's IFF code, I am curious as to what family they belong to." His hand pressed another spot on the terminals screen. "Lidia, please call the Captain up. I am ready for her." As his hand left the terminal, the gruff voice of Voteporix came over the communication channel.
"As you wish Marquis, I am almost to the door, we will ensure the Lady knight retrieves her items from her shuttle. Our Docking teams inform me they have the IFF code for an older model Assault Shuttle, the code belongs to a Lady A Lángok, better known as 'Kereboros'." The Marquis smirked as he made his way to the door, opening it while ushering the lady Von Hassia out, and away with the assistance of the Captain Voteporix, Absolon stood at the banister looking down to the Mercenary Captain.
"Captain Karlotte, I believe we have much to discuss and little time to do so. The current ship who has responded is a rather capable knight. One I believe you will get along swimmingly with. Now please come inside, we must speak properly." His final words echoed down to the main foyer, where Lidia nodded to Karlotte, as if to motion her upstairs with a smile. The Marquis disappeared back into the room without another word. Returning to his communications terminal.
"Docking bay 7-Victor, Assault Shuttle Kereboros. Welcome to Adrasteia Tower, my home and hopefully yours soon. Lady A Lángok, once you have arrived, my attendants will show you to my office. I look forward to our meeting." His finger lifted as the man leaned against the desk in anticipation of the Mercenary Captain and now, the crazed Hellhound of the Hassani War.
As the shuttle settled into the docking clamps to house it, Karen made sure to straighten her outfit. Sure, she would have loved to walk around decked out in her field kit, but that was the wrong image to present. The outfit was in the tones and cuts that seemed popular with most of the knights and nobles of the NDC. Seeing the guards walking up, she quirked an eyebrow, but was only unsurprised.
"I wasn't expecting such a greeting from just arriving." She said, giving a small wave to the guards approaching her. The man in question seemed to be harried, probably due to the suddenness of her and her retinue's arrival. As the man reached her, promptly saluting as they did so.
"Lady A Lángok. I'll escort you to the Marquis' office." He said, as Karen returned the salute. Giving him a nod and a gesture, she followed him through the corridors of the station. She noticed the valve's on the population, but merely shrugged. She could think of little to no reason for them, but she wasn't going to judge. Who knows, might be one of the lovely quirks that the Marquis had.
The halls were pleasant, that much was true. Mostly functional, occasionally ornate, which was tasteful to Karen's own views. Soon reaching the reception room, she gave a nod to the receptionist as she was directed up to the office itself.
It seemed unexpected guests were abound this day, as one more shuttle was coming up. This one was a smaller taxi shuttle from the surface, a civilian craft marked as carrying a VIP. The ID was sent to traffic control just shortly before its appearance on scanners, a colony knight, but with royal credentials. This was a truly rare occurrence as those trained and selected between the cores and colonies, were vastly different. The story behind such an individual must be interesting, and was infamous for a very different reason then compared to Karen.
“Andraeste Tower, This Sir Trager answering the call of Lord Absolon D'Concillion. I have come to offer my services as a royally ordained knight, recently transferred to the colonies. Please reply haste fully, I do not wish to keep your master waiting.” ,came the rough and filtered voice of the knight in question. Sitting on the uncomfortable shuttle bench, he had no private craft, only his uniform, blades, sidearm, and the arming sword module of his once assigned mech. No skin was exposed, his head covered with a full mask and helmet as one.
Perhaps this will be the final stop for my contemplation and service. I look forward to seeing how this lord measures up to his reputation. If he shall not take my service based on past stigma, then I shall find another. But I'm sure he shall see the value of my life and service with all the information I hold privy to. Trager thought to himself as the shuttle drew ever nearer to its grand and imposing destination.
Karlotte turns up towards the Marquis with a parting smile at the receptionist, and chirps a „Right away my Lord,“ in response to his resummons. She steps quickly up the stairs, careful not to appear desperate or build up to any sort of exertion. She smiles at Lady Von Hassia and Voteporix as she passes them; a fleeting thing devoid of any true emotion. As soon as she reaches the doors to the chamber she slips in, shutting them behind her with a soft click. Stopping beside the chair she had previously occupied, she bows low, one arm sweeping out to the side as the other hand is held to her breast, her braid falling down over her shoulder to hang by her face as she looks up at the Marquis with undisguised anticipation of their quickened discussion: something which has almost always favored her in the past.
„I am at your service. If I have not misunderstood, then you are ready to finalize our contract,“ she smiles again as she straightens and steps forwards to lean over his desk, her hands on the edge and her eyes fixed on his, „it won’t take long I’m sure for a man with your, resources.“
The Marquis bowed back to the Mercenary, before stepping to the wall adorned with blades, his hand pressing against the wood frame, before the wall behind the desk, became translucent. Slowly the wall lifted, and a seemingly younger man, of similar stature to the Marquis stood from a smaller desk, his dark olive skin contrasted by the lotus tattoo that crept up his neck from the front. A fine tailored suit made of the finest materials the tower had to offer adorned his body, his jet black hair was in a long, low set ponytail. As a white glove drew a lightly colored cigarette from a case on the smaller desk, the Marquis quickly rushed over to light the cigarette.
As the man inhaled, he exhaled an orange hued cloud of sweet smelling smoke. Piercing crimson red eyes glowed through the cloud as he began walking toward the Captain. "Since I take it you have agreed to our deal, let me properly introduce myself." He spoke properly, with an almost aloofness in his voice." I am truly Marquis Absolon D'Concillion, this is my body double Marco." a gloved hand waved slowly in Marco's direction as he left the room from an exit behind the false wall. Holding a finger to his lips, the marquis slowly pressed his finger to the comms terminal." Lord Trager, and Lady A Lángok please enter my chamber, post haste." Looking back up to Karlotte he smirked taking another long drag from the cigarette." The funds are ready to transfer now, and the shuttle, armor and weapon systems are all staged. What more would you like?"
The door opened behind Karlotte and in strode the Lady A Lángok in question. If she had a jacket on, she'd have had both hands in it's pockets before raising on hand and giving a "Yo." to the both of them. "Nice set up you've got here Lord Absolon." She said, with a grin, tail wagging behind her. She found an empty seat and settled into it. If there was one thing to be said about Karen's mindset, it's that she never really 'adopted' the more formal elements of being a Knight herself. She was just as crass and abrasive as she had been in the war, when she had effectively been at the bottom of the totem pole. "So, heard you were looking to get some new retainers to help keep troublemakers in line. Figured I'd offer up me and my retinue. All thirteen of us urban warfare specialists, veterans of the Last War, and oh so very eager to get ourselves knee deep in some good ol' fashioned street clearing work." She offered up, since she had a feeling the redhead in the room was probably jockeying for a similar position.
Karlotte straightens as the Marquis turns from her to approach the wall, a look of confusion passing across her face. As the wall Fades and the room beyond is revealed, along with its occupant, she fights the urge to draw her beam pistol, her fingers twitching on the top of the desk. Her narrowed eyes take in the man, quickly covering his whole body as she measures him up. Of course the Marquis would hide himself from prospectives until they had shown their own hands; most nobles, she figured, would do something similar if they could pull it off. She leans forwards again, not quite resting her weight on the desk.
„If everything is ready to go,“ she says, her voice a little warmer now, „then I just need to know what you want me to do.“ her left hand comes up to fiddle with her braid, flipping it over her wrist and around her armored fingers as she locks eyes with him.
„We can discuss special rewards and duties once you’re satisfied with my work.“
As the door behind her opens, the exhale through her teeth is unmistakably annoyed. She had hoped for a few more minutes to explore this new secretive Marquis‘ personality. She turns from the Marquis and fixes her gaze on the hound entering the room. Her lip curls at the edge and her brow knits as she tries to not let a look of disgust cross her face. Instead she crosses her arms and moves over to the side, letting the space in front of the desk remain open for the newcomer. A puff of steam hisses out of the small vents on her calves as her armor cycles its power supply.
„My Lord,“ she asks coldly, „do you want me to remain for your discussion with this, dog?“
"Hey now, I'm no 'dog'. I'm a 'Hellhound' thank you very much." Karen replied, huffing slightly, letting some flames escape her mouth, though not enough to risk her rather nice and fancy outfit catch any actual fire from the act.
The olive skinned man raised an eyebrow looking to the Mercenary Captain first, then to the genemod knight." Captain, Lady A Lángok here has an impressive Resume from the Hassani conflict. She is a true Hellhound. Though I can tell you show disdain for her kind. She herself has shown her use, and is an absolute Asset. See her the next time we need to stop an insurgency on this station. Go tend to your men and your new toys, and keep your terminal close."
His crimson eyes locked onto Karen before Smirking."Yes Lady A Lángok, you have a place here. Welcome to Adrasteia tower. I'll ask for you to swear your Oath of fealty when you are ready."
"You got it sir. I hope you don't need me doing any fancy kind of swearing or that sort. Plus, if the Captain really wants to see what we can do, I'm sure a man like yourself has a few people in need of some good ol' shock and awe?" Karen said, a very eager smirk crossing her features as she did so, eyes glinting in delight at the idea of getting to cut loose so soon.
The Marquis took another drag from his cigarette, with a smirk." Do not forget that we must reflect the positions we both hold, hellhound. So yes I do and will expect the pomp and circumstance of our positions will be respected. We are waiting for one more knight, who is on his way. Once I have most of you here we can begin talking shop if you will." He smirked deviously blowing another cloud into the air.
Leaving his arming sword module with the receptionist, the knight wasted no time in entering the office, knowing full well he was expected. The masked head of Trager took in the few present in the room, “I must say, you are wasting no time in building up your circles Lord D'Concillion. I see that I have chosen wisely for seeking service under your banner with this level of initiative. Sir Trager, previously Sir Trager of the royal knighthood, and now of the colonial knighthood.”, he greeted formally with a honorific bow before standing at attention.
The Marquis met the man with a bow in kind, before taking another drag of his cigarette. Exhaling another cloud he smirked devilishly." One could say that Sir Trager, however. Politics are much like duels. Information is the key to success. It is why I was expecting you, how have you enjoyed the outer colonies?" The Marquis' crimson eyes locked onto the masked knight, before looking around the room." You all have your specialties, your areas of expertise. Kereboros, is a close quarters shock and awe specialist, Trager is a master at pulling strings, Karlotte serves as a guard captain and excellent body guard. While the young lady Von Hassia is resolute in her beliefs to follow the teachings of the chivalric code. You all, from this day forward will serve me, and better our tower for our people and ourselves. However, we see fit. Am I understood?"
Karen sighed as the Marquis pointed out she had to at least play the role of a knight, even if she legitimately thought some of the hoopla and rituals were kind of silly. Still, when the last knight arrived, she eyed him sidelong to get a gauge of him. She couldn't say she was impressed with his talk, or his appearance. But then, she also knew that sometimes the most dangerous foes were the ones who looked the least threatening.
"Yes sir. Me and my retinue stand at the ready to act upon your orders, to thusly prevent rebellious groups from gaining too great a foothold." Karen said, giving a bit of a formal bow of her head as she spoke.
The Marquis smirked rather happily. Lighting another cigarette, he inhaled the orange smoke dancing around him upon his exhale his red eyes glowing through." Sit down you two. I need to inform you of our first mission. Unfortunately for them I will not allow this cancer to fester in my systems." His eyes became more serious as the tan skinned man came back around the desk hitting a key on the touchpad showing a world. "This is the planet of Heilis, the homeworld of the other young knight in my retinue. It would seem a terrorist cell is actively planning a coup against their governing executive; Jeremiah the fifth stilker. I will personally join this excursion to lead this team. To show these backwater ungrateful cattle, that you do not cast stones and the crown. And more importantly here…me. Sir Trager, your personal data pad will be updated with all of our information gathering and previous exploits on Heilis. Hellhound my dear. Gather your men for true shock and awe. Make sure to adjust your insignia. Fly your own heraldry but make sure they know who you fight for."
Absolon stepped around the desk to the map." The capital is here." A gloved finger fell upon the globe." They will be attempting this soon. And there is nothing I hate more than loose ends. Your rules of engagement are shock and awe, overwhelming force. Let's show these savages why they revere our nation and myself." As he spoke a devilish grin fell upon his Visage looking over his now personal knights.
Karen grinned, a puff of flame escaping her mouth. "Oh, we'll be the most shock and awe motherfuckers this world will have ever seen." She said, eager to get to work hearing that.
"If I may be so bold milord, but may I request the sourcing of my frame be expedited? I would like to get it fitted, a suite for EWS and Intel added, and source trustworthy personnel for my work with the timetable provided. Information is my job, as well as keep it's reins tight for when it is needed. Also showing the locals how a knight commands presence as a frame runner, shall… humble them, to what they must ascend to." What Trager said seemed measured, even as he began to look through the contents in the offered pad.
With a slight pause, Trager thought to add briefly, "Also never hurts to have a titan of armor and advanced weapons for castle toppling."
With a sly smirk, now concealed through another brief cloud of smoke, the Marquis chuckled to himself." You are all so eager, I thoroughly will enjoy this. I will send both of my knights that are frame pilot's, a list of our current stock. And you Lady A Lángok. Have already been added to the armory's access list. Do leave some for my men." With that said, it would seem the curtain would fall on the groups inevitable meeting. Now it was time to prepare for what could only be referred to as a, police action.