For Alone, We Are as Good as Dead [Open Social]

[Sieglinde P. Krantz]

Each clack of her heels across the tiled floor echoed out in marvelous symphony with each step the Sternritter took. It was a sound she'd grown quite known for within these snowy halls; one that the rank-and-file knew meant to clear out. It was a sound that she herself loved quite a bit. The commanding presence that came with it. That was a high she wasn't willing to give up for the world, and one that she was going to act on today.

As the afternoon sunlight pierced through windows, Sieglinde peered toward a clock on the wall as she walked; it was but a few minutes before noon. Her timing was almost perfect; she wasn't the type to be late, especially during such an important little venture. Such simply would not stand; especially when she was as excited for this as she'd hoped her subordinates were.

Stepping into the meeting hall, she took a moment to glance around. As she'd expected, it'd been rather empty; good. It simply wouldn't do if she wasn't the first person to show up. Instead, it gave her time to prepare; time to set up her notes, run through the paperwork that had been necessary, and prepare for any alterations that were likely to be needed in the planning that had been done thus far. She hadn't figured that many were to be needed, but it was something to think about nonetheless.

Sitting down, and letting her overcoat drape over her chair, she began to diligently re-read through the letter that had been sent out a day prior. Given her position, she was well within her own jurisdiction to send out such a note to really anyone that she might've needed - or simply requested - to meet with. In this scenario, it was sent mostly to individuals of similar rank to the Sternritter.

"To His Majesty's Chosen,

I hope this letter finds you in good health. As you may or may not be aware, the recent Niflheim operation had gone off without a hitch. Through valiant effort from some of our own, we have managed to cement a place on the world map, per His Majesty's desires. While it was not a flawless operation, it has given us quite the presence we have long needed; the Vandenreich is a name now circulating through quite a number of places within each of the Three Worlds. Soon enough, our reach will expand to even greater lengths.

This is where you come in, my dear comrade in arms. With this letter, I request a simple meeting tomorrow at noon. The location of said meeting is stapled to this note, along with directions if such are necessary. I expect the second page to be burned after committing the information to memory. Last thing we want is any sort of information leak; if you had attended my last arrangement know full well what we do to uninvited guests.

Regardless, there is much to be discussed. Predominantly, this meet will focus on the next steps after the Niflheim operation, along with a plan of attack for our next targets. A number of our enemies have since recovered from recent attacks, and some have yet to learn of the might of His Majesty. It's about time we take action, and show them just how 'persuasive' he can be to those that refuse his gifts.

Sincerely,

Sternritter S, the Sanguine."

[Lulatrix Lapis Lazuli]

Lula's heels clacked differently from Sieglinde's as she approached the meeting room. There was a heavy thud on the downbeat, followed by an aeiry, lilting lift as the magician all but pranced her way towards her destination. She had seen the letter floating around and, as one of the Vandenreich's most, chosen, it was obviously  addressed to her especially amongst her comrades. 

Even though she had not been there for Nifelheim's glorious christening, despite the fact that her Majesty's will put her on the team helped build the fortress, Lula was certain that she still belonged at this meeting despite the fact that Nifelheim was the main topic of discussion. Lulatrix's teeth gnashed together and she sneered at nothing, suddenly switching from cheerful to thoroughly annoyed. And what of New York? She thought. Lulatrix was the only  Vandenreich presence when New York was flooded  and destroyed as an unholy beast attacked it. 

"Hmmmph!" Lula snorted as she made her way to the meeting, holding the letter that was rolled up and now crushed in her gloved hand. She would have plenty to say if this meeting was just a way for some Sternritter to pat themselves on the back. She would be there soon enough, but for now her purpose was much more glorious than anything that could be done for the Emperor on some floating rock. 

Lula pushed through the door and tightened up her scowl, replacing it with a bright smile as she stepped in. She saw only Sieglinde and no one else and grinned. On time, as always. She stiffened up and clapped her heels together. She gave Siegland the proper salute. "Guten tag, Kaptain." She barked. She completed the salute and then looked around. She ran her fingers along the chairs as she strolled along the room, wiggling her fingers as her hand rose up and down the arches of the chair. It was as if she was playing with an invisible car, racing it up and down the "track." 

When she got to a seat near Sieglinde, she plopped down. "I sure hope this meeting isn't just for Sternritter, Kaptain." She said and began to trace her finger absentmindedly along the table. "I may not have been blessed with His Majesty's mark just yet, but I am certain that my contributions to our Glorious Purpose is enough to get me a seat. I am one of the chosen, after all." Lulatrix reminded. 

[Sieglinde P. Krantz]

As the door creaked open, Sieglinde turned her eyes to see the woman walking in. A soft smile rose to her face. As Lula spoke her hello, Sieglinde did more of the same. "Pleasure to finally meet you; Lulatrix, right? I've heard word of some of your exploits. I'm quite glad to see you here." A soft chuckle escaped her lips.

As the Quincy took a seat, Sieglinde nodded her head once more. "Oh, you needn't worry about that," she stared, "I suspect only one other Sternritter may show up; most others are out on excursions for His Majesty as we speak. Instead, I largely expect a number of individuals that share Rank with you, as well as a Privat or two. Those that have risen above their place and shown exemplary capability... I'm sure you understand." Another smile creeped across her lips.

In truth, she'd hoped to see quite a number of people. Namely some of the same faces from her last meet. She'd been out for a little while, so it was to be a nice change of pace to see old comrades. Regardless, new faces were always welcome; particularly Lula's. "While we wait for the others," she started, "I'd like to ask. I don't believe I've heard word on what your capabilities are; not through reliable sources, anyway. If you don't mind my asking, what gifts might His Majesty have blessed you with?"

Right to business. Sieglinde was certainly not one for small-talk, nor was she one for overstaying pleasantries. She'd known what most of the Vandenreich higher-ups had been capable of, either through word of mouth or direct spar, but this was one of the few cases where she couldn't claim to have all the info on. If nothing else, it didn't hurt to gather that while she waited for others to arrive.

[Lulatrix Lapis Lazuli]

"Ooooh?" 

Lulatrix raised an eyebrow as she was called out by name. She didn't really keep track of who knew of her, nor did she particularly care, but that a Stern Ritter knew  her. It certainly helped to reinforce her Glorious Purpose. "That's right, Lulatrix Lapis Lazuli~" Lula said with a nod. "Danke, Kaptain. Hopefully I can spread His vision through my exploits to every ear." Lula explained. "I presume that's precisely why we are here?" 

Her grin drooped when Sieglinde mentioned that only a few Stern Ritter were going to show up and that even a few Privat were going to attend. Despite not being a Stern Ritter herself, she had very little care for the rest of the rank-and-file in the Vandenreich unless it suited her particular needs. She had a bit of reputation as a commander that most people did not want to get put under, as she could be prone to moodiness and how she executed her orders and gave them often depended on that mood. Worse yet, she could detect ass-kissers pretty well and often treated them worse. 

Still, she tried not to think about it when Sieglinde asked about her abilities. Showing off was something she liked to do a lot. "I am one of, if not the finest magician in His Majesty's service." She said and held out her hand. She formed her bow and immediately plucked the string, snapping it so that it transformed into a long staff with a snake's head, and strong forming a forked tongue. "Not the rabbit out of a hat, magician, but an occultist. A sorceress, as it is sometimes known, but we've had many names... alchemist, Hermetic, Rosicrucian~" Lula explained as she waved her staff in the air. 

"Secret Lore, unraveling mysteries, studying magical energies. In old times, these men were revolutionary. Devoting themselves to a higher purpose, and the knowledge of it. So, magician seems a little cheesy, it certainly is the best description for a layman. Transmogrifier or tansmuter may be more accurate, but I do have tricks." She waved her staff at Sieglande and a bolt fired from it. If it hit, Siegland would feel a rush, as though her body was suddenly much lighter and quicker. She would also feel a pair of animal ears and a tail sprout from her. 

Lula then grabbed a coffee mug and tossed it into the air. She waved her staff again and Siedlinde would notice a very faint shimmer in the air and then, suddenly the mug would fall out of the air, sliced into perfect cup cubes, as if it was touched by nothing. Lula giggled and tipped her hat. "His Majesty blessed me with an overwhelming amount of reiatsu. As His vessel, I intend to use it to make His reign eternal. Not by being the tip of the spear, as it were, but by being that who performs His Divine Miracles, and makes the impossible, possible." 

Lula tilted her head. "And, you, Kaptain? You are... S, right? The Sanguine?" Lula bit her lip and her body tightened as she hugged her staff. "Der Blutgral.... What an honor." Lulatrix said as she bowed her head reverently. 

[Sieglinde P. Krantz]

“In a sense,” the Quincy mused, “Your own efforts to spread His Majesty’s word are not to go unspoken today. At least, not in time. We’ve certainly much to discuss this afternoon, and I don’t wish to be wasting any time if it can be avoided. Unfortunately, it seems you’re the only one to show up precisely on time.” She chuckled. If nothing else, it was interesting seeing that there was someone who shared her desire to be punctual.

As the conversation drifted, and Lula began to make display of her abilities, Sieglinde watched with a blank expression. While she was certainly interested in what the woman could do, she wasn’t going to just play her hand in the open like that; she certainly had some thoughts that she’d keep to herself. “Quite amusing,” she spoke, “I don’t think I’ve ever quite seen tricks like these before. Makes me wonder what might come of such powers in the future. As she finished, one of her newfound bat ears flicked back and forth.

Nodding her head, Sieglinde responded in tune. “The very same. One of the few that still holds a number of tricks up their sleeves.” She chuckled. A majority of the abilities Sternritters held were fairly well documented amongst the rank-and-file; Sieglinde however, had recently been blessed with new abilities. Those yet to be unveiled. ”Perhaps you’ll be one of the few that learn of just what I can do, mm?”

Letting out a soft sigh, Sieglinde peered toward a clock once more. She began tapping her fingers against the desk, and rather forcefully at that. Regardless, she’d have to be patient. “If you don’t mind my asking, Lulatrix; how familiar are you with the Niflheim operation? Surely you’ve a semblance of a notion about it?”

[Cassandra Frost]

 It hadn't been long since her glorious return to Silbern, fleshless and exposed. The greatest of Quincy doctors and technicians had set upon her like vultures to roadkill immediately. They said she should have been dead long ago. What skin hadn't been burnt away was rotting from the hundreds of years of exposure to Hellish energies. Though her body had begun to fail her, she dared not slip away. Nay, until the cycle of death and rebirth had been defeated, she must remain outside the cycle. Her daughter had failed and her offspring was a failed successor. Nay, until Cassandra, the Dreadnought herself, had recovered her soul to produce another offspring, she would remain as she always had: dauntless, fearless, ever-enduring.

 She needed to feel every bit of them. As their hands went to work, detaching, cutting, and welding, she had urged them not to put her under, not to dull the pain. For all too long had she remained away from the light of the Emperor. She had grown dull in her senses over the centuries, old, decrepit. She need not bear that lack of feeling any longer. "Let them come with their scalpels and machines, for the Dreadnought dreads nothing at all!", she had told them in challenge. Such pain, such bliss she felt. Each action was made with careful precision and thought, unlike a demon's hellfire. Time would melt and her cries and moans would melt along with it. The pain indeed had knocked her into a lucid state, but she was conscious somewhat.

 When it was all over, she'd come to fully. It had been weeks, she had been told. The augmentations and prosthetic operations were a resounding success, something the doctors and scientists had been surprised to say. She felt numb, but she felt warm. Every inch of her body had not gone untouched. From head to toe she was clad in a metallic flesh, cold to the touch, but not at all unpleasant. She looked slightly different, but her long silver hair had managed to regrow. Her eyes were mechanical and glowed a dull crimson hue. She felt as if she was controlling a puppet rather than the body, but the doctors assured her this was because what remained of her body had yet to fully adapt to the changes. This was acceptable. She was at least living.

 When she was medically cleared to attend this meeting, she would be assigned an attendant, a rather new recruit terrified to look after her. Cassandra chortled as she sat comfortably in her wheelchair. This young man was assigned to her by her own command. The young needed to learn from the old in order to gleam from their experience and obtain the motivation and inspiration necessary to climb the ranks, just as she did. The recruits were like children, and they deserved to be taught and raised. Normally, this area would be off limits to one such as him, but due to the orders she carried in her lap detailing his assignment to her. This simple slip of paper misplaced would mean his death here, and we cant have that.

 As they approached the doors to the meeting room, the young recruit was practically shaking in his boots. The ebon Quincy simply chuckled at this nervousness, steam drifting from her lips. "Stay here, child, and hold onto these papers if you value your life. If you move from this spot, I'm afraid I wont be able to treat you to some freshly baked cookies later~", she'd command slipping the envelope into the boy's hands. "Oh, get the door for me, I fear I yet lack the strength to bother."


 The heavy doors would be opened for her and she'd roll slowly inside. She'd be clad in a uniform befitting that of a Captain Supervisor, yet hers as black as her flesh. Panels along her body beneath the loosely fitting coat would open like scales to release steam that followed whereever she went, the soft hissing noise calming to her ears. Crowned atop her head was a cap with the same color of her uniform, with the face adorned with an onyx crest of the Vandenreich. Though appearing abnormally compared to other Quincy, none could mistake her standing as a Captain Supervisor.

 Two other high ranking officials had already begun talking, but the old captain hadn't discerned the topic as of yet. Though she did notice something off-putting about the pale haired woman. No. Off-putting was not the correct word. Terrifying was more accurate. Had she not been the Dreadnought, perhaps she would have been trembling in fear herself. Fortunately her will was as iron as the metal that enclosed her body. It was mildly annoying, to say the least. Additionally, she'd feel something very familiar, the sign of the Emperor himself. Ah, so she was a sternritter. Exposure to hell's aura for so long had long since tarnished her own shrift to the point of it being burned from her soul and body, but the feeling, the taste of it remained ever present in her mind.

 The woman herself wasn't familiar, but that was to be expected. Cassandra had spent over a thousand years guarding that Hellgate in Russia. Its no surprise there would have been several command exchanges. Her eyes then shifted to the other. Immediately she'd feel the difference in age, even if she couldn't accurate gage it as much as she'd like. It was impressive to rise so quickly in the Emperor's ranks, or maybe perhaps the ranks had diminished somehow. Regardless, it would seem Silbern was in good hands when she was gone.

 "Greetings, comrades. You must forgive me for my.. less than stellar appearance. I've only just been medically released, you see.", she'd explain, clutching her uniform close to her body. "I would have brought baked goods to lighten the mood, as well. It truly is unfortunate", she'd sigh and shake her head, steam slowly leaking from her with every word. "I am Captain Supervisor Cassandra Frost, former Sternritter D, The Dreadnought. You may call me 'Admiral' or 'Bismark' if you wish. May I acquire the pleasure of knowing your names? hmn?", she'd ask warmly but sternly. She knew well the thoughts that might be racing in ones mind upon hearing the phrase "Former Sternritter". Its not often one loses the shrift and retains one's life, let alone a high rank. She may be weaker than before, but she was more than capable in her own right.

[Lulatrix Lapis Lazuli]

"Good." Lula said rather ambiguously with a smile. She turned her staff and it disappeared into reishi particles that melded back into the aether. Sieglinde's ears vanished similarly. She pressed her hands along her skirt and sat back down. "I'm sure to someone like you, they just seem like parlour tricks, but I'm perfectly fine with that. I haven't shown off what I'm truly capable to to anyone, really." Lula explained. "I'm sure you understand, Captain. I feel I can serve His Majesty even better when I become a Stern Ritter, so, that is one of my most important goals." She paused. "Outside of what His Majesty has given as direct orders." 

Lula smiled. "So we agree on that? We are fighting a war and, as I'm sure you know, war is deception, right, Kaptain? Just be careful. There's such a thing as holding your cards for too long, as well." Lula subtlety reminded. She was, however, unfathomably curious. As someone who pursued the unknown, having a leaf unturned was something that would drive her mad. Like an earwig or some food stuck in her teeth. Something just out of reach like an itch. She hated it. She kept her annoyance to herself, though, as the topic of discussion changed. 

"Familiar?" She said. "With the operation?" Her lips pursed. "Not." She admitted sourly. "I was not there for the maiden voyage, I'm afraid. However, with the fortress itself? Intimately. I was there while it was being constructed. My magiks and knowledge of fabrication were integral to making her seaworthy, as it were." Lula sighed, "Alas, I have not been there since it was made operational. I was ordered to New York shortly after, though I must say, it certainly felt like it was all part of His Majesty's Glorious Purpose." Lula admitted with a sheepish smile, just as the doors opened again. 

The power that radiated off the woman was different than Sieglinde, but somehow not. Lulatrix couldn't help but stare. The ebony skin, the black clothes, the iron. She gawked, wondering if she really was part of His Majesty's grand plan. If she wasn't, she wouldn't be here. She noticed the rank, no need to salute, but that seemed off. Everything seemed off, and it played with Lula the way weather interferes with a satellite dish. 

Lula smiled at the pleasant greetings the woman gave and, as she explained things, it seemed to fit in with the puzzle that Lula was piecing together. A former Stern Ritter. clearly now some kind of Frankenstein's monster thanks to the efforts of His Majesty's greatest Doctors. Still valuable, even with power lost? That seemed to sum it up. But their rank was equal, at least at this  moment. She certainly wasn't going to capitulate.

"Kaptain." She said with a nod and a polite smile. "Captain Supervisor Lulatrix Lapis Lazuli. Welcome." She said, giving the woman a genuine greeting. "The Kaptain and I were just breaking the ice, so to speak. It seems because His Majesty's empire stretches far and wide, these intimate moments are few and far between." Lula then nodded her head. "The Vandenreich thanks you for your service." 

[Ruhe Krieger]

Ruhe found herself a veteran now, and a distinguished figure among the ranks of the Vreich. However, she held a rank that was the lowliest of entries. Though she could no longer hide her power, or the inherent gift that was given to her by the Emperor, if one could call it that. So powerful was Ruhe that she had unlocked the power of the soul, and unless she actively restrained her power, those soldats of a lesser rank, even lieutenants could be crushed to death. With exertion of her power, she could force even those of higher ranks kneel before her. Ruhe took little satisfaction in such a thing.

Instead, she was very quiet as of recent times. Trying to act as a paragon to the Vandenreich's expectations. Silent. She followed orders. She did as she was bid, and she obviously had the potential to succeed in those tasks. Though she trusted none, and she held no friends within the expanse of the organization. No comrades within the army. She'd learned to analyze the subtle nuances and premeditations of battle, and she'd kept the vast bulwark of her abilities hidden and a mystery. Of all of the abilities she held, only her power property was known, and even then, only in limited capacity. In other words, she let people know just enough to know she was there, but not there.

The power to manipulate water. A power that wasn't particularly unique by any means. However, as she came to, and began to hear the voices of others speak, she listened. Ruhe Krieger heard about the Emperor's fortress. She'd not had the privilege to ride upon it herself, but had been tasked with cleaning stragglers, as well as warding any retaliation against his majesty's vessel. In which case, she'd fought the vice captain of the eleventh division and singlehandedly warded him, and when she left the battle, she had come unscathed. Her opponent on the other hand, badly bloodied.

As she came to the entrance, she'd looked at the letter she held, and in some part thought it was a mistake. Or perhaps a part of her wished that it was. Though, as she came forth in her Quincy dress wear, with the modest length skirt, and jacket she wore upon her frame, she'd slowly step into the room with a solemn and stoic expression. Before entering a bowing curtsy to the members of the room. "Privat Ruhiger Krieger. Soldat of the eleventh division. At your service." Her eyes drifted towards the floor, and with her introduction completed, she'd stick to a corner of the room.

The strangest thing about Ruhe in comparison to before, was that she'd drastically decreased in height. So much so that if one looked upon her now? At least in terms of height? She couldn't have been older than ten by the seem of it. Something strange had happened to her that had seemingly made her regress, her form shifted. Something Ruhe herself was still trying to work out. About a half a foot shorter than she'd been since the last time she'd met Priscilla or one would suppose Sieglinde now, she'd find herself resting her gloved hands neatly along her lap.

[Sieglinde P. Krantz]

"Perhaps a tad," she spoke, "but I've yet to see their applications in a combative scenario. Given your rank, and your air about you, I'm sure that you can be quite a force to be reckoned with, Miss Lulatrix." With a slight nod of her head, the girl continued. "Don't stop on your journey to join the top of His Majesty's forces, in that case; it'd be quite pleasing to see you sitting up here as well."

As the conversation drifted, Sieglinde nodded her head. "You needn't remind me, I know that problem well." She chuckled. "I'm not going to argue that holding my own abilities secret for a while could prove quite the detriment. That said, I'm well-versed in how combat should be handled. The longer I can go holding onto my secrets, the greater the advantage I may hold over my foes for that very reason, mm?" A soft, rather concerning smile rose to her face. The gears in her head were turning, and not necessarily for the better.

At the mention of the Niflheim operation, Sieglinde perked up. "Oh!" She exclaimed, "my apologies; I had no idea you've played such an integral role in getting the operation - and the Niflheim itself, for that matter - off the ground. Your work has not gone unnoticed, for certain; and to that, I thank you." A slight bow of her head followed thereafter.

As more individuals took the opportunity to arrive, Sieglinde smiled once more. It seemed that things were finally beginning to get underway. After both had the opportunity to sit down, Sieglinde crossed her fingers together, letting them rest on the table. "Pleasure to see both of you here as well," she started, "Sieglinde, S, the Sanguine. Pleasure to meet-" she motioned to Cassandra, "-and be reacquainted with the both of you." She smiled toward Ruhe.

Looking trough her papers once more, Sieglinde quickly passed a copy of the same sheet to each member that had currently arrived. "We'll wait just a bit longer before beginning the meet, for another individual or two to arrive. We shan't wait too long, however." Turning to the youngest of the lot, Sieglinde smiled. Though, much like before, it was laced with the same darkness that carried about her at all times. "Privat Krieger, if you don't mind my asking; it's been quite a while since we've last talked. What have you been up to in service of His Majesty?"

[Ghost Fenyx]

Although he was new to the ranks of the Quincy The Vandenreich at that. Ghost has already made his mark in more ways then one. But that was child play compared to the others. He was not calling anyone scary or anything but unlike them he waged war on anyone who dares disrespect his Mejesty great name.
It was a sunny Day and reading the letter stating there would be a meeting. Has left him with a sugar mouth. It would he a fine time to go introduce himself. After all he hasn't meant anyone just yet but still he would like to. Ever since joining up with the Quincy he have grown a lot stringer to the point he fought on par with a very great healer of the soul society and nearly came to blow with her sister some Soul Reaper who used blood to fight with and inside a cave that leaked blood at that.

He fought off a few hollow and even one that was stronger then he was. Not to mention he just survived a battle with the Esapada who holds the rank of One. He did all that without even having the Emperor blessings. Now imagine if he did in fact have such a thing. Ghost would be living a replay of past events in his head. So much so that he did not even realize that he was now in the meeting hall. As he came to he would look around and see a few people was already here and seated. This cause him to do the same. Looking for a seat right across from the Quincy wearing the magical girl hat. Ghost would pull out his cigar as he looked at the others and before he could light it up he would say,"Do yall mind if I smoke a bit?"

Wc309

[Ruhe Krieger]

She had been asked something, what she'd been up to. Ruhe had always been used to acting and behaving very small, sinking away. That had been made even easier seeing she was now not much taller than four foot. However, when she was confronted, there was a moment of silent contemplation and reflection. "Little. Mein Kommandant." She says, tilting her head as she looks to the floor. "Compared to the efforts of others and their diligence to His Majesty, my own work is nothing." A good and humble answer. Neutral. Something that someone couldn't complain much about as she decided to articulate just a little bit further. Enough so that it didn't seem as if she was being disrespectfully dismissive.

"I've done as I was bid,  as my superiors have directed. And I've made it by." Looking to the others around her, she found herself trying her best to remain reserved, calm, and in control of her heart and her feelings. Trying to hide that power that lay dormant within herself. Ruhe was used to going unnoticed, and frankly, she wasn't sure if she wanted to be. Or if she wanted to slink into obscurity. What Ruhe did know she wanted was to be happy.

To feel loved and adored to varying extents, and to feel the affection that she otherwise didn't really know. However, she knew better than to think to find it here of all places. Remaining quiet, she gives a momentary look to the other Quincy that had just entered. A silent look that seemed to cringe at the presence of the cigar. She didn't like the smell of the ashes and nicotine. It reminded her of numerous bad memories, memories of a place that she once called home.

Folding her hands neatly over her skirt, she cutely and shyly looks towards her feet. Not really used to being stared at, especially in her smaller state, she wasn't sure why she alongside these others were invited. She was just a private. A lesser soldat in the cog that was the Vreich. A soldier for his majesty to go off. Her reports always seemed to show as if she was simply "alright", making it back through difficult situations through perhaps some coincidence, or perhaps luck.

Because she worked in growing her powers in privacy, as she began to develop at rates that could be considered beyond concerning. What was happening to her she wondered? Why was it that she was fated or destined to be here in these moments? That was what Ruhe wondered. What she wanted to know. After all, she grew with little notion or understanding of praise, nor did she truly know to the extent her gifts truly extended. What was power, and how much of it did she truly hold in the Vreich? Frankly, she couldn't say much.

[Cassandra Frost]

 It would appear they would be waiting a bit longer before diving into the meat of why they were there. It was fine by the admiral. Perhaps she'd be able to learn of the men and women who ran the Vandenreich these days. Cassandra sighed and rolled herself to the table, nudging a rather hefty chair to the side to make way for herself. She'd turn to the younger captain, her smile stretching wide across her synthetic face. "Well met, Captain Supervisor Lazuli." She'd acknowledge the prodigy, "There is no reason to be to formal. My time may had passed, but I yet continue to serve. You may thank me when I have long since expired." The Admiral laughed and slipped the ornate cap off her head, setting it on the table before her. As much as she liked how stylish their uniforms were, they were all just too stuffy, perhaps even more so as her body retained a bit more heat then it once did.

 As if on queue, a vent hidden on her hip would open, letting off small jet of steam from the built up heat and pressure. The noise was a bit to get used to, but the feeling of releasing this pressure was more than satisfying for the old Quincy. "Keep up your good work and you may find favor with the Emperor yet, young Lazuli." It was an honest compliment. In Cassandra's time, it would take her centuries to achieve what Lazuili has in her relatively short service.

The Admiral would be acknowledged by the sternritter, the young woman telling her the Schrift bestowed upon her. S, the Sanguine. Cassandra approved of the name. Red was such a beautiful color, but the old Ex-Sternritter had a feeling Sieglinde held this title not for the color, but for something more gruesome. Before she could act on her curiosity on the young woman, the doors would open once again, with a young private entering.

 "Hmn? Private?", she mused, her brow rising as she realized a glimpse of this particular private's strength. Such a strength is highly uncommon for someone such as Krieger's rank. Though it was possible some certain misconduct would keep one's rank low, given her conversation with Sieglinde, Cassandra would realize this wasn't the case. Nay, this was a failure on Krieger's supervisors. Given they existed in a world surrounded by enemies of various shapes and sizes, the need to foster strength within the ranks. Had Cassandra been younger, her reaction to this information would leave her acting brash, taking matters into her own hands, however the woman was much older, and a tad bit wiser. It was easy to put the blame on her supervisors and twist this omission of Ruhe's strength into a form a treason. Under such notion, it would be easy to execute a path for Ruhe all the way up to a rank befitting her strength.

 The years have thought her that things were not that simple. If Ruhe was deployed to the field for a significant amount of time, it was possible that's where she gained her strength. If this is the case, then she possibly just hadn't had the chance to get recognized. Cassandra nodded at this notion and made a note to put in recommenda1tions later. Soon enough another private would entered, though this one didn't mirror Ruhe's strength. His was befitting of a strong Private or an average lieutenant. Cassandra was pleased that even those among the lower ranks could be granted access to the meeting, but this positive feeling faded the moment he flicked out a cigarette, stating his intention to light up.

 Cassandra's eyes flickered in irritation, the habits of old nearly rising to a head, but she was a calmer person than she used to. Lucky for this private that Cassandra didn't vaporize him where he sat. The Admiral leaned into the table, elbows pressing into its polished surface to cradle her cheeks in her palms. Her crimson eyes flickered as they focused on the man. "You forget yourself, Private. We may be exchanging pleasantries, but don't make the mistake of disrespecting your betters here.", she'd speak sternly, almost grandmotherly. Each word chastised the man like he was nothing more than a child, and for good reason, as she saw him as such from the massive ocean that separated the two in terms of strength, rank, and years. "You haven't even introduced yourself. I recommend you put that cigar away until you do.", she'd continue to scold, her tone as cold as her name.

"Children shouldn't smoke anyhow. It's bad for your health."

[Alexander Alistair]

”ACK!”

Came a loud, phlegm-filled, cough as he strolled down the hall without breaking a step. His footsteps echoed through the fairly empty, elaborately designed, halls as his black shoes struck the floor in a hurried rush. Tossing his arms through the white vest as he walked, the unshaven man rubbed his finger across his nose as he sucked in a sniffle. ”Probably a bad idea to stay up drinking till one in the morning but here we are, one step at a time Alistair. Ow, my head.” he muttered to himself rubbing a black-gloved hand through his neck-length hair as he continued to try and compose himself. To think that it had been two years since he had seen his fellow Quincies. What a long time to be away on a mission. Well, not like Alex could complain. It was either that or, well, something worse. A much more… severe punishment. Fraternization with the enemy, even with the intended advancement of the Vandenreich's goals, was very frowned upon.

Well, when he actually stopped to think about it could he really say that the punishment was that bad? Spending two years in Rome, of all places? One might consider that a vacation. But, no, unfortunately, Alexander couldn’t spend his time flirting and eating porchetta. There was this whole thing with a demon in Vatican City killing priests and yada yada yada blah blah blah nobody cares. What was important though was Captain, important to note he retained his rank, Alexander Alistair had finally returned home. To the wonderful, beautiful, dreary, awful, cold, Silbern. A Silbern without Amalia. Learning about her fate had been rather upsetting actually. Alex liked her. And Hadrian. There weren’t many left from his generation of the Vandenreich.

Now here he was. Marching along the halls of the Silbern on a mission. He’d been delivered a missive. ”Come hang out, have tea and cookies, as we discuss our plans moving forward regarding our recent awful decision to build a floating death mountain.” At least that was how Alexander viewed the report. Having only recently heard about this whole Niflheim project shenanigans, Alex sure as hell had to wonder if the Vandenreich had lost its collective mind while he was gone. Maybe this has been a desperate attempt to get some power back now that Amalia was gone. Or there was somehow arsenic in the water. The night he read the report about the project he had remembered being completely and utterly dumbfounded by the thing. But, if this was his Majesties will then so be it. Though Alex was trying to convince himself that, no, this wasn’t the Emperor’s idea. It was another Quincy's idea that managed to convince the Emperor to greenlight the project. This was what the kids called “cope”.

”Sir, you’re going to be late.”

”Mmmmmmgh.”

Alexander mumbled back as he rubbed a hand down his face. He didn’t want to go. He could already tell that this meeting was going to be dull. Discussing something that he just didn’t care about. He also knew if he were to voice his real opinions regarding the entire operation his head would possibly roll. Unless the Emperor offered him some sort of divine protection. Alex was so unenthused in fact that he honestly contemplated jumping into a Hell Gate just to get out of this. The grogginess and nausea he felt from his hangover didn’t help things either. ”I’m not going to be late it’ll be fine.” Alexander replied to his Soldat, Anelie. Waving off the short woman should have been good enough, but instead his back got shoved by the girl to get him to hurry up. ”Captain I don’t understand something. Why didn’t you just teleport?” she asked, prompting the man to blink with surprise. ”Oh, right, I forgot we can do that.” he exclaimed with surprise, plopping his fist into the palm of his hand. But that didn’t prompt him to actually use this teleportation ability. Finally, after a short while longer, the two would finally reach their destination.

”Alright. You know what to do right?”

”Huh? Uh…oh! Uh… Captain, I uh, forgot the song.”

”What? What do you mean you forgot the song? I told you first impressions are everything didn’t I?”

”Yeah but I… you…”

”No, listen, okay. It’s fine it’s fine. Just take my phone and hit random. Yeah, that button right there. Alright ready?”

”Daddy’s ba-”

With that hurried conversation out of the way, Alexander threw wide the doors of the meeting room to the sudden screaming of lyrics to a song he hadn’t predicted would be selected at all. A song so unexpected that Alexander, standing there with arms wide open at the doorway, was stun locked. All he could do was stare straight ahead, the grin he wore fading away into an embarrassed frown before he quickly spun to his Soldat. ”Turn it off turnitoffturnitoffturnitoff.” words spilling out of his mouth like spaghetti out of a pocket. ”I-I’m sorry it was his idea.” Anelie apologized with a bow to the Quincy in the room before hurriedly fleeing.

Blinking once, then twice, Alexander watched her run off before turning his attention back to those in the room. ”Ahem… Daddy’s back!” Alexander announced with arms held out and chest held high. ”Hold your applause, hold your applause. I know how much you all must have missed me and I am so eager to inform you all that I. Have. Returned ♥” Alexander proclaimed rather loudly as he fully entered the room. Scanning the room at all the faces he could see, his eyes wound up settling on the one that he knew the best. Princess Priscila. Alexander’s lips curved into a rather fox like smirk. ”Oh I’m so happy to see so many new, smiling, faces today. I can’t tell you how lonesome it’s been being away from everyone for so long.” Alexander said as he rounded the meeting table.

”I’m so excited to be here today. Just so appreciative of the opportunity to talk to all of you.” Alex explained as he neared the end of the table and pulled a chair out right next to Sieglinde and plopped his butt down right in that seat. Resting his elbows on the table and interlocking his fingers together to make a surface, Alex rested his chin on his fingers and smiled directly at Sieglinde. ”Hello Captain Supervisor ♥ it’s been awhile.”

[Sieglinde P. Krantz]

As the Privat walked into the room, Sieglinde watched carefully. She hadn't known this individual well, but word had gotten around that he was growing a fair bit in capability amongst the others of his rank; Ghost Fenyx. He seemed to be quite the upstart from what she'd heard going around, but this was her first opportunity to get to meet the young man. Truthfully, she was interested in seeing what he had to say. That was, until his rather rude introduction.

Her own reiryoku threatened to boil as her anger grew. She was tempted to snap - and nearly did, all things considered - before Cassandra stepped in. Informing Ghost that his introduction had been less than appropriate, she allowed herself to relax in her chair. "Quite," she commented, "careful not to overstep there, Privat. Insolence will only be tolerated for so long. Your higher-ups may be tolerant of such for so long, but luck will run out eventually. Especially when I'm involved." As a show, she allowed her reiryoku to flow outward into the room, letting her presence be known.

((OOC: Invoking Intimidation 4))

To those with energy sensory capabilities, her aura would prove crushing; overbearing. Not enough to apply a gravitational force, but enough to let everyone in the room know just how she felt about the situation at hand. Even those outside were likely to feel her presence. Still, though, the conversation drifted, and she knew that calming down was prudent to the situation at hand. As such, she simply sat back in her chair, and crossed her arms. Listening to what everyone had to say, and getting familiar with introductions, she nodded.

"Please, feel free to take a seat, Ruhe. Your presence here was requested; I won't have you standing around like last time, mm?" She gave the girl a smile. One laced with sinister intent, but for the most part? Fairly caring. The young Privat held a place in Siegilnde's heart, given her affiliation with Amalia. She'd seen a bit of herself in the girl, all things considered.

"I would like to thank you, however," she started, turning her head to the robotic woman, "for speaking on my behalf. I can't promise that I would've been as-"

The doors slammed open, colliding with the walls.

Almost immediately, the Sternritter's attention had been drawn toward Alex in a heartbeat, eyes watching him like a starving hawk. As he stood there, evidently stunned from his own choice in music, Sieglinde similarly found herself unable to act. To say she was ready to tear him a new one would've been an understatement. She couldn't believe that fucker was back. "It's been three years," she asked, letting him collect his thoughts, "where on earth have you been? Quite a lot has happened since then, Alexander. For one, a simple 'Captain Supervisor' is less respect than I command now. Sternritter fits perfectly." She flashed a similar smile toward the Captain, though one quite evidently filled with venom.

((OOC: Invoking Intimidation... 5?))

[Lucien Dantes]

Upon finishing the letter, Lucien Dantes immediately set about carrying out his instructions with the usual diligence and attentiveness the Vandenreich Captain-Supervisor was known for. Into the fire with the letter at once, and Lucien remained just long enough to ensure that the entire paper had been reduced to ashes, and that no part of it could be salvaged for further reading.

"Anselm. Douse the flames. I will be attending a meeting with His Majesty's finest." Lucien commanded one of the household staff, before returning to his personal chambers to dress in proper uniform. Lucien changed quickly and methodically with military precision and efficiency. Within moments he was adorned in his white Vandenreich uniform and black cloak denoting his rank within the Vandenreich. He pulled on a pair of white gloves, made sure his spirit cross was in place beneath the folds of the cloak and immediately set out for the Emperor's Palace.

The Dantes residence was not far from the Palace, so Lucien rarely had to walk far. And he'd had ample time to recuperate from his previous excursions, so the Captain-Supervisor appeared to be in about as good a health as he could be. He'd only had eleven coughing fits today, so that was pretty good by Lucien's standards. He passed by the various walls, guards and defenses of the Palace without incident, and made his way towards the meeting hall as directed in the letter. He could sense numerous powerful reiatsu's, some he recognized, some he did not. Sieglinde and Ruhe Krieger's reiatsu's he recognized. Ah, and there-- albeit somewhat overwhelmed by the others around it, he recognized as Ghost, the new individual he had brought into the Vandenreich. Hmm... And there.... That was a blast from the past, it seemed. Alexander Alistair. Unexpected. Why would Lady Sieglinde invite a demon slayer? He wondered for a moment, but continued on. He was sure it would become clear before long.

Nifelheim operation.... It was a project that Lucien had heard some tales of in accordance to his rank, but only at a distance. One that spoke of mass devastation and destruction. It was likely for that reason that Lucien had not been brought in on the project. While his results spoke for themselves, Lucien had ever been a soldier that excelled in precision and surgical attacks, and had very rarely participated in-- and indeed, often protested or argued against outright massacres. A mass murder weapon like the Nifelheim operation was implied to be, would have been well outside his preferences. So it did not surprise him that His Majesty, in his grace and wisdom, had not assigned a high ranking officer whose personal philosophy would be at odds with the assignment.

Not to say that Lucien would have refused had he been instructed to do so, nor that he would not have put his full focus in completing the assignment provided. Only that he was grateful that the Emperor had identified the tax such a thing would have placed on Lucien's soul and chose not to burden his servant with such struggles.

As Lucien marched through the halls, his eyes caught the visage of a nearby Private. He did not recognize her, but decided she’d serve well enough for appearance purposes. ”Private. You are to accompany me.” He stated to her. He was not sure why he called upon her entirely, but something compelled him to. Perhaps it was His Majesty’s will that she attend this meeting. In any case, it wasn’t completely unheard of for Lucien to be attended by lower ranking officers. His health complications were something of an open secret, and it benefitted him to have someone on hand that could assist him from the room if they grew too severe.

At last, Lucien arrived at the meeting room from which he sensed everyone’s reiatsu. He stood at attention first outside the door, and calmly, but audibly announced his arrival. ”Captain-Supervisor, Lucien Dantes and Private attendant, arriving as directed.” Lucien stated, so-as not to walk in on a conversation he was not to be privy to. He then pushed open the doors to the meeting room and stepped inside, in the wake of Alexander’s arrival. He could feel the ice and hostility from Sieglinde the moment he entered, though he suspected it was probably not at him. The faint scent of smoke in the air, caused the Captain-Supervisor’s eyes to fall onto Ghost with a steady, unyielding stare. He said nothing to the Privat to begin with, sensing that whatever he’d have said had already been spoken.

”A pleasure to see you again, Lady Sieglinde. It was heartening to read that the project was a success, and that our influence is growing."[/color] A half-truth really. Lucien could hardly consider the mass destruction that had doubtlessly been caused to be heartening. If anything he felt it would vindicate the worst stories told about the Vandenreich. However, an increase of their influence was something at least. He could only hope whatever the explicit details of the Nifelheim project were, that it was a one-and-done attack.

”Captain Alexander. Welcome home.” Lucien moved into the room and found a seat not far from Ruhe’s own—though did not sit right beside her. Lucien recognized, from his meeting when recovering her, that the girl was uneasy around him, and although Lucien fully intended to keep an eye on Ruhe, he did not want to intimidate her or feel as if he was encroaching upon her. Nor did Lucien directly address her, in an attempt to further avoid drawing attention to the girl. He wasn’t exactly pleased to see Ruhe here, hoping she would have remained far from any sort of military operation, but that was not a matter to be discussed in public.
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