Regrad stood in an open field of long grass. Surrounding him, as far as the eye could see, were the soldiers of the First Grand Regiment of Azguard. Ancient warrior traditions, which had been buried for hundreds of thousands of years, had been reemerging ever since the Azguards joined the Galactic Community.

With sword in hand, Regrad went through the motions of sword-combat, and dilligently his soldiers followed suite. Like liquid, each warrior shaped himself over time to fit his new role. They were adequet shots, and trained in the nessecary details of each weapon their role in the military required, but it is up-close that an Azguard became a terrible and unstoppable force.

Gifted with natural abilities, Regrad and his soldiers practiced in silence, their considerable wills and determination giving them what would seem like supernatural strength to most other races. Finally, as the sun set, each one of them sheathed their swords, and spent a moment in respect to their own god.

Regrad left the site of training, and returned to the Coalition Command Tower. There, he waited to meet his loyal military second-in-command, Yolem.

"You've heard of Dondana's plan to revitalize and rebuild the military?" he asked, as his lieutenant hurried up the entry ramp. He nodded.

"I think it's a good opportunity. We have gone too long without a proper defence force to protect the Coalition. We were obviously occupied with other matters, I know. But now is the time."

"It may be a hard idea to sell, sir." said Yolem. "The member planets might think it offensive to their sovereignty if you replace the regional fleets with a single organization."

Regrad shook his head. "As it stands, only the blind, deaf, and dumb will think we're capable of handling the Empire and the Black Dragons in our current state. If the Representatives really think protecting a technicality right of little significance is more important then gaining a basic level of security, they can't possibly be correctly representing their people."

Yolem nodded. "That makes sense. But how will you do it, sir? It's not like you can call the entire military together at once."

Regrad smiled. "If they cannot go to us, we shall go to them. Weapons and ships can be sent easily, but to train them, experts will be needed and facilities set up."

"That sounds quite costly, sir."

"We can manage it, we just need to be patient and gradual. The Coalition Economy is entirely self-sufficient and contained, within our own nation we have everything we need, and so money spent by the government stays in the nation. Thus, time is the only factor."

Yolem paused to consider this further. "You'll have to be very careful, sir, in your planning."

"Don't worry, I will be."

Regrad went to his quarters, and began to work. For ages, the military had been a nagging doubt, something that needed to be addressed. For what good was freedom and liberty if you did not have the means to protect it? This was certainly a time of need, and it would take powerful guardians to ensure the survival of the Coalition.

Calling a variety of assisstants, experts, representatives, and agents, he eventually found a company whom he trusted to arm the Coalition. Until now, each regional force would equip itself in the way it saw fit, but Regrad knew they would need a force above and beyond that which existed now, one which could surpass in strength any force it would face, for they would be outnumbered. They were Second Wave Technologies.

Second Wave Technologies was a relatively small ship-designing company that was making a name for itself with interesting new styles and technologies. Regrad took down some information on them, and settled in to study the details of space-combat and spaceships. He poured over designs and made notes. Being no technical expert, he had still commanded a number of ships and knew their strengths and weaknesses. Slowly, he created a portfolio and set it to one side.

Finished this task, he set the portfolio aside, and went to sleep, planning to meet the House of Reps in the morning and begin his plans. The Coalition would Restore the military would be accomplished, and through it, the Coalition itself would be Restored.

As the night wore on, Regrad found himself suddenly partially awake, as if in a dream. A familiar feeling washed over him, and he knew he was being awoken by the Presence. The Presence is the word he used to describe the ever-present senses of the Gods of Azguard, that which feels them all to a certain extent. Yolem, his patron and God of Light, was speaking to him.

"Regrad, you have been a dilligent and determined leader for some time now, and I have seen your plans for defending your people. Know that we too believe that the Coalition needs to be defended, but it is not in our power to do so.

"We are limited to the world of Azguard, and the people of it. Over hundreds of thousands of years, we have quietly built up Azguardian warrior spirits, and through your leadership they can be honed to precision, but there are others. You cannot hope to train the defenders of over two-dozen worlds, and their vast forces. You can arm them, and you can establish academies and schools, but who will train those who are to teach there?

"We have been discussing this, and have settled upon a solution to bestow upon you. Create an order of the best warriors from across the Coalition, and train them well. Furnish this order with the greatest weapons and armour you possess, and codes of status and conduct that will raise them to impressive places in the eyes of the people. Then, once completed, send these disciples of war to the farthest reaches of the Coalition, and build for them great colleges and academies. They will be your chosen mentors and paragons of the Coalition. Their ways will be seen as something to emulate, something almost heroic for the common people to look up to and feel a stir of patriotism.

"We trust in your abilities, Regrad, and your wisdom. Go forth, and give your people the defences that they need."

Regrad awoke, to find dawn breaking. He hurriedly dressed, gathered his notes, and departed for the House of Representatives.

There was muttering amongst the members of the House of Representatives. Since they had first convened, in hardly a year, there had been changes in membership, passing of countless important and life-altering bills, and the lifting of an alliance of free people out of the dark ages and into a light plateau that they found they could - with difficulty - inhabit for years to come. All this without petty political divides or c-span.

With a bang of the gaval, they fell silent. Regrad rose to his feet.

"I hearby declare this session of the House of Representatives open. Our first order of business is the Debate and Discussion on further military improverments. I would like to start the debate by releasing my proposed bill, a copy has been presented before you."

Regrad silently counted down in his head, until the first exclamations reached his ears.

"Why, your plan will cost the government an arm and a leg!" exclaimed one.

"Our economy is only just starting to improve!" said another. Gradually, what could be called an uproar could be called, but Regrad cut them short.

"Page forty-two." he said. The sound of many hands flipping through pages could be heard.

"This plan will not, over the long term, cost us one cent." he said. The representatives split between looking at him with surprise to pouring over the various pages of the bill. "Our economy is bursting with resources, thanks to a relatively low population combined with efficient technology and vast regions yet to be staked out. We have the capability to pay for it because employment will raise from the new soldiers, new military coordinators and engineers. We can start new mining ventures and new scientific endeavours to learn more about what we possess and ways to use it.

"With the increased economic activity, the government will be paid back in the form of more taxes, and a more vibrant economy will naturally produce more revenue. Such a large project, and one people can become excited about as it is patriotic - assuming, of course, our esteemed Minister of Ethics decides upon a fair way to present such beliefs - promises national activity unseed throughout member states."

He sat back, and patiently allowed each representative time to read through the proposals, and quietly discuss it amongst themselves. After a time, one stood and asked "This is all quite interesting, Mr. Prime Minister, but what's this near the back about a 'Project White Knight?' From what is provided, it comes off a bit like a Republican guard."

Regrad rose again. "It is not my intent to create such a private army, good sir, so much as create a force for the elite protection of the Coalition in general. You will agree that it would be impossible to train such a massive, galaxy-spanning force as the Coalition requires without massive expenditures of time and money, neither option sounding favourable.

"Thus, it appears to be in the best interests of the Coalition to create a force above and beyond the military, disciples of the Coalition in times of war, who may first be trained together at the most acclaimed facilities, then disperesed amongst the rest of the soldiery to bring up their ability personally. They would not just serve as teachers and leaders in battle, but also as symbols, paragons of those virtues the Coalition holds dear. It would of course be open to review first by the Ministry of Ethics, and later by the Judicial branch and ourselves."

Satisfied with that explination, the representative sat down. Finally, the meat of the argument appeared, as one determined man rose from his seat. "Mr. Prime Minister, I have reason to suspect this move. Although the Military is a vital institution, regrettably, and I would support moves to equip and train them better - even create your elite force - I fear that this consolidation of forces will cost member-states a vital part of their anatomy. Does this mean that if a planet leaves the Coalition, it will lose the service of its' own people to a government it no longer is a part of? It seems you would hold hostage loyal defenders to ensure none left the Coalition."

Regrad had been prepared for such an argument, and knew it would not be settled in a day. Nevertheless, he rose, to make his opening statements.

"I am aware that some of you will fear this to be a gross overstep of the Coalition's bounds to dictate things to its' members. Let me tell you now, however, that over the time it takes to pass this bill, I will be willing to work with each and every one of you to make sure you are all satisfied with the nature of the bill. The military is not going to be taken from the states, volunteers and contributed materials will be carefully marked as to ensure that a planet which departs will be able to ensure they do not lose anything to the federal forces.

"It is true that the military will be under federal control - but not utterly, simply when it comes to the matter of maintaining and directing it. States will still control the specifics of enrollment, sovereignty of their space, and the power to veto foreign forces in their area. Should they choose to make changes or indeed leave the Coalition, they will be allowed to do so with their military forces removed from ours.

"I seek complete transparancy with this bill, and I mean it. Anything that troubles you, bring it to me and I will be glad to work with everyone to ensure it works. The Coalition cannot afford to go without defence, and this is what we are here to deal with today."

There was still much uncertainty on their faces, much anxiety in their movements, Regrad sighed. "We have a lot of work ahead of us."

The Coalition High Command was flooded with people. Activity was evident in even the most obscue corners of the gleaming tower, and in the center of this storm was Regrad. As old messages, instructions, and manifests were taken away, just as many new correspondence directives, and vast reports were received.

"Scotch?" Asked Viren, as he overlooked the chaos.

Regrad grimaced. "I don't drink much any more."

Viren shrugged, and poured himself a glass. "Can't see why, if there's one perk of power I might be in favour of, its' free drinks for public officials."

"Shouldn't you be reviewing the Bill, as Minister of Ethics?"

"In case you haven't noticed, you haven't got past the declaration of the bill yet. I can't do a thing until you've got it past the house. Hell, me coming down here and talking to you is probably a breach of some rule or other." He drained the glass with surprising speed. "I'm kind of surprised you decided to take it on, actually. Between Joren Logan, Jan Dondana, and Marth Meer, you'd think there'd be enough incompetance in the Coalition Military that enemies wouldn't attack you simply to see if you'd kill yourselves on accident."

"Oh come now, Mr. Quell. That's a bit of an exa-"

"Corellia."

The room fell silent. Like an explosion centered around the two, a rapidly expanding circle of cold seemed to pass through those in the vicinity.

"That is a cruel thing to bring up, Viren." muttered Regrad.

"Is it?" He said, his voice devoid of pleasent tones. "Well then that's all the more reason to fucking talk about it, I think. In the past, the Coalition has has won fights when they were already the odds-on favourite. You've been lead to war and you've lead people to war, and frankly upon review I've got a few fucking doubts about your qualifications."

The sarcastic tone was harsh, but Regrad knew it to be true. There were no real answers or counter-arguments that didn't come off as ignorant excuses. Regrad laid a hand over his face, and said nothing.

"It's not like you're a bad person, Regrad." said Viren. "I dunno, you seem to mean well. It's probably because of not being a human, that probably helps. But a stupid man that means well and holds the lives of billions in his hands, well... Yeah, I'm not sure where I'm going with this. I think maybe, what I'm saying is that the Coalition with a working army is a dangerous thing. Jan, in the name of security - oh, and because 'he had no choice' - signed over a half-dozen worlds' sovereingty, knowing full-well that he didn't have the authority to do so. Imagine what he would have done if he thought he could have just fought his way out instead?

"The Coalition does have a need to protect itself. The Empire is way too fucking big and the only ones with the balls to stop them are mostly those too stupid to spell Empire in the first place. And the Black Dragon Empire might make history by actually being worse. Neither really give a shit about the Coalition and you're going to need to be ready when one decides its' worth the risk to take you out.

"But if you don't think of something to solve the internal issues as well, you're just going to end up in the same mess of shit all over again. I know, the Ministry of Ethics idea was a good one, and I'll do what I can, but you can't believe I can contain someone when he just loses it and thinks that unless the Coalition goes to war right now we're all going to die."

Regrad finally had an idea worth saying, and turned towards Viren. "You're right, in a manner. We need to train competent officers and keep the more radical elements of the Coalition under control. I'm already planning a greater training course and the construction of more academies, but how to deal with Joren and Jan? Unless, of course, we make Joren a commander of his own, independant force, and have Jan supervise it."

"Oh, no fu-"

"Wait, hear me out. We make Joren his own force. He'll be in command of it, we'll give him the best gear and allow him to train his own recruits. We'll even give him his own base far, far, away where he can stay, train, and plan to his heart's content. His forces will be a volunteer force, carefully presented, and will operate as the countering force to the White Knights. With a second Elite force, under a very different commander and a different structure of command, that should assuage fears that the White Knights are to be a tool of Federal intimidation and power. That's nearly all our problems out the window."

"There you go, I knew I was good for something." said Viren, who poured himself another drink.

House of Representatives


The older orator was speaking, repeating the words of opposition he had spoken the other day regarding the 'militarization' of the Coaltion. Trajan Vespian, Captain of the Iron Mantis and the newest initiate into that organization's fledgling military, would not normally have been present but he was seated as a representative of the Coalition Military and because, quite frankly, he had the commendations from both Lando Calrissian and Han Solo who were far off working to rekindle the peace and justice everyone yearned for.

"I have reason to suspect this move. Although the Military is a vital institution, regrettably, and I would support moves to equip and train them better - even create your elite force - I fear that this consolidation of forces will cost member-states a vital part of their autonomy. Does this mean that if a planet leaves the Coalition, it will lose the service of its' own people to a government it no longer is a part of? It seems you would hold hostage loyal defenders to ensure none left the Coalition."


After hours of this kind of talk Trajan finally stood. A move with surprised both his superiors, himself and the Representative.

"The Floor recognizes Captain Vespian, of the Coalition Military."


Vespian took a deep breath before walking to the center. "Esteemed Representatives of the Coalition. I see that this debate is something all in attendance and all in observance hold to be of great importance. This is a testament to your great love and concern for your people.

But I do not understand the positions, especially lately, that have been spoken.

It was my understanding that the "Coalition" is not something that conquered each of the worlds it holds as it's members. I was my understanding that each world, of it's own volition, entered the arrangement by which this all-encompassing government, termed: The New Galactic Coalition, would be given the responsibilities of overall management of trade, law and defense to name just a few.

Mr. Representative, the Prime Minister has every right to front a bill for the reorganization of our military forces because 1. The Coalition was given that right by your own world government with it's entry into the Coalition and 2. As Prime Minister, he was given the responsibility of being the front man on this by your voting him into the office!

Now that he is trying to carry out that duty to the best of his ability, a duty you voted for him, mind you, and now you seek to tear him down? You throw out the hypothetical of the planet wishing to leave the Coalition but you give no reason. The Coalition was to provide for the common defense of all members. All planets within the Coalition would equally support these endeavors. It's in the Coalition Charter signed by each and every member world!

Within that Charter, member worlds are encouraged to have their own system defense fleets and reserves. But the Common Defense Clause also lays the outline for a Coalition Military Command. This is good common sense and your leaders knew it when they signed the charter.

Why would they pull out when they are being asked to tow their part of the line for the good of all?

In my opinion, we should not be arguing whether the Coalition has the right to keep a 'national' military. Nor should we balk at the Prime Minister's efforts to see this into reality. These things have already been voted and decided on!

What we need to discuss is now the Prime Minister's implimentation of this plan that all member worlds approved of by their entry into the Coalition to begin with.

And, from what I understand, more than anything, these Elites he is describing really seems to be more for the Educational Referendum than the Military. But then, these Elites would be elites in military tradition and studies. They would be the stones that sharpen the blades of our military and believe me, in the galaxy we live in, our blades must be sharp.

We do not necessarily like to use our blades but if forced too, we would do well to have it in the best possible condition.

There has been some derisive comments of our losses at Corellia. It is true. It was not our finest hour with regards to combat tactics and implimentation. Our people were half trained and inexperienced. But you know what?

Corellia was our finest hour because it showed the mettle of our soldiers. Even as inexperienced as they were, even if not as trained as the Imperials, they went toe to toe with the most fearsome military machine in the galaxy and actually held their own! Did our soldiers want to be there? No. They had families of their own, they had lives of their own but they put that aside to protect the ideals that our great Coalition espouses.

That we will not be the puppet of evil! That we will not simply lie down and die in the face of overwhelming odds. Even as untrained and inexperienced our soldiers were (and they knew it!) they still put their boots on in the morning and did their duty!

They did not break!

They did not falter!

And if there is anything they lacked that only added to our eventual capitulation, IT WAS THE LACK OF SUPPORT BY THOSE OF US WHO SENT THEM THERE!


It was not Regrad for he was in the field!

It was not even Jan Dodonna for he too was in the field!

Joren Logan was fighting along side us and in the field as well!

So tell me. I implore you!


When our sons and daughters and fathers and mothers came back from the war, did we even give them a hero's welcome?

Or were they the scapegoats of a political system DANCING TO THE TUNE OF IMPERIAL PROPAGANDA!?

The Prime Minister wants elites! He wants heroes!

I suggest he look to our armed forces! The military is full of heroes from each and EVERY member of our great Coalition!


Why do we wish to spend more money on our defensive ideas? Because when an enemy fleet is in orbit around your world." he pointed to a section of the House, "or your world..", he pointed to another section, "we will have the strength and skill and ability to respond!

For is that not why you joined the Coalition?"


As Trajan finished, a voice rang out, "But Jan Dodonna would have sold us out..!"


And Trajan turned and looked at the Representative pointedly. "Tell me sir, is Jan Dodonna part of the military?"

"Yes, of course!" snapped the Representative.

"And doesn't the military answer to the Coalition civilian government?"

The man remained silent.

"As much as everyone screams about Jan Dodonna's actions, one thing you know about soldiers is that they do follow orders. And another thing you know about the Coalition is that it is NOT a military dictatorship but a civilian one. And if the military answers to the civilian government, then it stands to reason that this action Jan Dodonna would have taken would have been supported by certain members of the House. The majority of the House and if that's so, my question is: Where is your official indictment? Where is your official inquiries into the conduct of this Civil Government?

For it is this civil government that tried to sell it's own people (on Mon Calamari and others) to the Dragons! Jan Dodonna is not the representative of the poeple. I am not a representative of the people! We are soldiers. We have teh awful capacity for killing our enemies and making sure they do not hurt you or us.

If there is any talk of betrayal of the people then, it would be members of the House who actually represent the people, seeing as you were voted by those majorities on your homeworlds.

Everyone points the finger at Jan Dodonna but no one ever seems to ask: During all of this, where was the Civilian Government?!"

The Representative fumed where he sat.

Trajan sighed and quietly concluded: "Everyone wants skilled soldiers. Everyone wants the best and everyone wants experienced. Well you don't get experience sitting in homeport. It's a harsh thing to say but it needs to be said. Simulation only prepares you so much. No one is sure how they will react no matter your classroom training until you actually get into battle and take lives.

The Empire excels at it because it remains in perpetual war. We do not.

And so Corellia, though devestating, was good experience. Objectively looked at, it showed us where we were difficient.

Is the loss of life acceptible? No, it isn't.

But sometimes, in war, it is necessary.


Now honor those that sacrificed for you. Give them the training they deserve. Give them the skills to overcome those difficiencies. Give them the tools to better their craft to better serve you. Show them that this is a Coalition worth defending, worth dying for.

Help them to get organized and allocated the needed resources to ensure that our people get the best, with the best.


In a phrase: help them help you!"

House of Representatives




Joren Logan steepled his fingers together as Vespian ended his speech, watching the proceedings closely from his seat near the back. He was dressed in civilian clothes, discarding his usual Coalition Uniform, preferring to be unrecognizeable on his first trip to Azgaurd.

He had never before seen the secluded world that was home to the mysterious leaders of the Coalition.

Azgaurdians dominated Coalition leadership, something that still kind of irked Logan. He had been present when the Mon Calamari Republic, New Rebellion, and the Azgaurds had united to form the Coalition. Yet he saw no more than five Calamarians among the ranks of the Coalition "representatves". He also noticed not one of the former New Rebellion leadership, save Jan Dondana, who sat near the front.


Sad He thought as he was again reminded of Azgaurd dominance in the Coaliton leadership. It wasn't neccessarily a bad thing, he knew, but the Coalition always championed the fact that they were the most racially deverse government in the galaxy, yet their longtime capital had been moved off Mon Calamari (which had many different sentient species) and moved to Azgaurd for seemingly no reason.


Why?


Privately, Logan had always veiwed Regrad as a more of a tyrant than the peace-loving leader he was presented as. Regrad was as strong as cold durasteel when it came to retaining his power of the Coalition, which explained the change in the capital's location.


Politics! Logan thought with disgust. It always came down to politics.


Now Logan frowned as the Representatives still quarreled like dogs, making no progress, even in the face of Captain Vespian's speech.

"The flaws of democracy." Mahk said quietly from behind.

Logan smiled not looking at the Noghri. Long ago, Mahk had ceased being his bodyguard, and now was his most trusted confidant. Mahk had a deep intelligence uncommon in most Noghri. But then again, years and years of being constantly at Logan's side, and being exposed to all the Logan had been exposed to had made him that way. Logan often requested his advice before making major decisions.

"Democracy needs flaws. Let us hope that this democracy gets beyond them." Logan replied just as quietly as he continued to watch the squabbling representatives.

He stood after a few moments, "We'll be back later. I have a meeting scheduled with Regrad." He said, making a discreet exit.

Regrad was waiting for Joren off to one side, as the Representatives debated.

"Joren, good to see you. I am here to tell you, that once the discussion dies down and the bill is tabled, you will be granted a Consulship. This means that you will lead a special division of the military, encompassing both naval and ground forces. This force - which I will leave to you to name - will be highly equipped, well trained, and will receive some of the best and brightest from across the Coalition.

"You will be granted a charter to set up operation in the Onyxian region, and should the representatives of that area agree, you will provide all defence, exploration, and membership-seeking efforts for them. Your forces are to be an Elite tip of the lance, and something to counterbalance the second Elite Force, the White Knights, who will be more internally-aimed.

"I understand that this role is still a roughly defined one, and it will likely go through a number of alterations and reshapings before it passes the House, but should you accept it could be an excellent opportunity for all of us to defend the Coalition, and an efficient use of our tactical options.

"Of course, the entire military will be improved upon, but your force would be set a level above, and as such take on the hardest missions. There will be a certain amount of PR associated with the job, something others can handle if you wish, as such a force would of course be heavily touted by many as a symbol of Coalition unity and strength - which it will be, in a way, but touting it as such might seem to you unnecessary at times."

Further off, the discussions were becoming more indepth, as various differences were reconciled and agreements made. It appeared as though the House was now prepared for the Bill, and Regrad guestured for them to give him a minute.

"So, what do you think?"

Logan raised his eyebrows slightly and shifted uncomfortably as Regrad spoke.


He certainly was not expecting this!


He had been summoned to Azgaurd three days before. He had been overseeing repairs to his ship, the Star Destroyer Sentinel, as well as another ship under his command, the frigate Strider.

He had never seen the new capital of the Coalition, nor had he really ventured outside the borders of the newly formed Onyxian Province (the smallest in the Coalition, which he was in charge of). He tended not to stray to far from his beloved world Onyx.

But, being that far also kept him out of the realm of the dirty politics that he believed corrupted the Coalition, and he was not up to date with current laws and bills being passed by the legislature.

But this was slightly different. By the way Regrad kind of rushed through the details gave Logan the feeling that this was kind of a "last minute" kind of a thing. It didn't seem very thought out.


Yet the idea DID sound intriguing. Logan mainly preferred his small command, leading one vessel and a few small support ships in missions for the Coalition. It had been quite some time since he had last run an actual force.

He glanced back at Mahk, who maintained a healthy distance from Regrad. Mahk gave him an almost inperceptable nod.

Logan turned around, facing the Azgaurd, "Alright." He said simply.


"Sounds like fun."

Regrad smiled, and patted Joren on the shoulder. "I knew I could count on you, Joren." he said, and lingered for a moment, before returning to the centre of the House.

"The bill of Military Restoration ICF/1,2 shall now be uploaded in its' fully revised form."

Each representative lifted a datapad, and read the contents that rapidly appeared before them. "The bill, as you can see, has been modified considerably. We have realigned funding and filled the gaps by selling off old and obsolete technology to various museums, research institutes and the like to ensure there would be no financial hit to Mr. Quell's elaborate structure of health, welfare, and development programs.

"We have clearly defined the role of the White Knights, and their role, as well as the exact plan for construction of new facilities, the nature of those facilities, our new equipment, and finally a long-term plan to ensure the continued relevance of our armed forces in the future. Now, all of this we have agreed upon.

"However, there is one more thing I am uploading to you now." and with a nod to Joren, he tapped twice on his own datapad. "Mr. Logan has graciously agreed to head up a second force, one to offer a counterbalance to the White Knights, and assuage your fears of a 'Republican Guard'. Logan's force will be given the same upper-tier treatment of the White Knights, including additional equipment and their own series of facilities. We've already set aside a large portion of budget we were able to scrape off of natural-resource projects to equip and train them.

"Wheras the White Knights will concern themselves about the internal affairs of the Coalition, by training others, seeking criminals and bringing them to justice, and serving the interests and concerns of the common people, Joren Logan's force shall be called on to drive back foreign enemies and thrust into their hearts should we counter-attack. We have yet to finish fully defining the details of this Consulship, but I'm sure we can do this now.

"It is worth saying again that thanks to our recent efforts to bring in money, we should be able to cover all costs without increasing any taxes or damaging the nation's economy. The money will all be going to companies based in the Coalition and who have only internal interests, to ensure our money does not drain away and out of the country. We carefully chose our contractors based on a combination of technical ability and the character of their organization, to ensure the entire thing would be done in the most reputable way. It has been cleared by the Ministry of Ethics and requires now only your approval."

Regrad waited for a few seconds, eyes closed, and opened them to see the representatives raising to their feet to be counted. As each one rose in turn, he smiled again.

"It is settled. The bill shall be passed, after much work from all members, and all of the details shall be immeadietly sent down to the Ministry of Implementation, where the calls will be made, the orders confirmed, the press briefed, and all the wheels shall turn. I thank you for your support, all of you, from the brave men such as Trajan and Joren, to the wise men such as Viryn and Dondana, to you all as a whole, the united front of the Coalition, and I shall personally ensure your support is not betrayed."

The sound of thousands of machines, droids, people, tools, and more began a cataclysmic roar in the mighty shipyards orbiting CN-1344. Regrad wore a pair of headphones and a handless comm-unit so he could communicate with others over the din.

"So the shipyards are at maximum production, are they?" He said to the foreman, who nodded.

"We got the schematics from those Second Wave guys, and have been working as fast as we can ever since. It'll be a while before we've filled the whole order, but so long as you keep the steady supply of ore coming in from Nkllon, we'll be able to do it in increments. The first batch should be ready soon."

Regrad smiled "Good." and turned to look out at the yard. As far as the eye could see, frame after frame of the new Claymores lined up before him. Viewports offered him a look at the large fleet they had put together to protect the facility until production was complete, doubled up from the usual garrison, and in the distance he could see another massive convoy of supplies from Nkllon and other Coalition planets making their way under heavy guard to the Yards.

"I gotta be honest with you." said the Foreman, and Regrad turned his attention back to him "This is some good stuff, some of the best we've turned out, but this is a real big change of pace you're making here, if it doesn't all work you're going to have a whole lot of scrap hanging around."

Regrad shook his head. "No fear, good sir, I have every confidence in Second Wave's technical abilities. As for the pilots, they will have the oppourtunity to become better acquainted with these ships soon enough."

Regrad left the Yards later that evening, and made a trip to Leritor, where he had received permission to set up the White Knights Central Command, the main training center and coordination point for the entire organization.

He had been approved by the government of Leritor to build the gargantuan installation - which appeared like some great medieval castle but was in fact bristling with modern technology - right on a plateau overlooking the vastest area of plains on the planet. The site was ideal, for it gave just the atmosphere and terrain needed for training.

Construction workers had been hard at work building the facility for about a week now, as that was how long they'd had since the passing of the bill. Even with the advanced technology available to them, they still were not nearly completed, or even properly begun. A set of temporary accomodations had been set up near the worksite, as well as the crates of supplies and equipment for the new facility.

It would be here that the Military Restoration would begin in full force, for those who trained here would go out across the galaxy to train and lead the Coalition into battle. Academies and training centers would be built on every Coalition world. But it was here that teachers would be taught. Leaders lead. The magnitude of the job weighed heavily on Regrad's mind.

It was some time, nearign nightfall, before the transports arrived. They touched gently down, on the flat and firm ground of the plains, and line after line of people, all the races of the Coalition, disembarked from the ship. The Knights were no honorary or hereditary title, soldiers of the best merit had been found from within the Coalition and called to meet here, and now here they arrived.

In small groups, as they lugged their equipment towards the camp, the new arrivals made their way to Regrad. Recognizing who he was, each one dropped their bag and saluted. He waved. "Stand easy.

"Soldiers! You have been chosen for a great duty and responsibility, for on your shoulders will rest more weight then ever before. Once you are done here you will find yourselves thrust into roles never taken up by people of the Coalition. You will be the guardians, the peace-keepers, the warriors, and more when you leave this place, so before you do we will have to train you into the toughest, strongest, smartest warriors ever to walk across the face of this galaxy. Failure is no longer an option. But that is why you have been chosen, for you failure is never an option, and so we ask of you now to hold to that discipline!

"The Coalition needs more then soldiers, it needs an example, something to inspire hope, to look up to. You cannot simply make such heroes, but by the gods we can forge them out of you. Today begins the first day of your training. Prepare yourselves."