Gates of Heaven, Voluntaia
Ryccian Empire

Stormtroopers were everywhere. Four AT-M6s patrolled the outskirts of the village. A Star Destroyer was near, as well as dozens of TIE fighters of different classes swarming overhead. Anti-aircraft cannons were primed and ready.

If this was not the security detail for the Empire's top military command, you would believe that this town was under harsh martial law.

The Grand Generals, Grand Admirals, Chiefs of Imperial Security and other high-ranking military officers were arriving. Some were wealthy enough to descend into the resort's spaceport with luxury yachts. Others made use of more standard ships, albeit they were still elegant for the common man.

The higher-ups of the Strategic Security Command were from a myriad of species, albeit it would be erroneous to state that any one of them obtained their positions through racial quotas or nepotism. They had all earned it.

This year's retreat would have a special guest: Jeffrey David Sinclair, the Legate of the Stoinian Star Kingdom. Not only were they interested in what they had to say, the Ryccian military wanted to display a show of force. Unlike the politicians, who either trusted the Stoinians out of idealism or "trusted" them out of political convenience, the military was not convinced. They were deeply distrustful of the Stoinians, and, unbeknownst to Sinclair, this year's retreat focused on formulating a strategy in the case of a war with them. Of course, Sinclair was not going to be made privy to these plans, as the nation's military leaders would consider this without his presence.

"Is that war hog coming soon?", said Grand General Rihard Altrec, a Vonmisian female.

"I have not a singular clue. I was informed that the Stoinian representative would be here around this hour", said Grand General Livia Sorventia, a Human female.

"Klistek, klistek! Who had the bright idea to invite a potential war criminal here?! Why should we entertain a savage who may be lying through his teeth?!"

"Patience, Rihard, we must collect the maximum information possible from these Stoinians. We can not trust the words they deem suitable for us alone"

Grand General Enric Pryde's ship was descending into the spaceport. He had been delayed due to a prolonged meeting with one of his subordinates in a separate resort.

"Greetings. I presume the Stoinian representative hasn't arrived thus far?"

"No, not at all. The bloodthirsty savage isn't here. Do we have to wait here still?"

"I don't know. Say, Ms. Altrec, can we talk regarding the new designs of the F11 blaster rifle?"

"Alright, might as well kill time. About the new cartridges..."

---

[/hr]
Orbit of Voluntaia
Ryccian Empire

The Stoinian transport ship was being guarded by a military escort. A light cruiser, along with several TIE starfighters, protected the vessel.

The Stoinian was coming.