A summon of the High Command was called for later in the evening. The topic remained unknown but high priority was written all over it so every member had to be present.
When everyone gathered, Grand Admiral Taylor stood up and proceeded to the center of the room, “Good evening everyone. I am aware that most of you have no idea what this sudden meeting is about.” she took a breath while looking at everyone. “Not so long ago, Polyphemus’s scanners identified Prosecutor-class fighters flying under colors not belonging to the Legion. Former Lord Commander Brass was surprised by that and became rather concerned about the control of our assets, so, he asked me to investigate it. I researched the Commonwealth’s channel, unable to find anything on the subject except an urgent need of restructuring the facilities which handle those requests. It is unacceptable to hand over OUR technology, OUR work that was attained over the years at the cost of blood and sweat, to unknown parties for a puny sum of credits. We are not weapon dealers and we most certainly are not a charity. Anyway, on the original topic, the organization known as Battlegroup Auxesia was spotted using our ships, there are no formal records of a deal whatsoever so I contacted them myself. I found out that a deal was made via a personal transmission to Lord Commander Locklear which was processed by the MIA Executive Commander Damian Moreno, who granted their request without consulting the rest of High Command.
On behalf of the Fleet Marshal Brass and former Lord Commander, I am challenging the capabilities of that person and his idea of management of Legion assets. Brass proposes that we temporarily shut-down the Commonwealth’s licensing channel until this issue has been resolved."
The room fell silent except for some whispering between the people inside the room. Lord Commander Locklear broke his silence “You have a point Taylor, there have been a few bad decisions but it’s nothing that can’t be fixed.” Locklear turned to Brass “Markus? Do you have anything to say yourself?”
Markus closed his eyes for a second and stood up. “We all know the trials we had to go through to get here. We cannot risk our past and our future by providing weapons to people that may turn against us one day. I’ve looked for clues to determine their allegiance to the Legion but I found little. A few reports here and there, nothing uncommon, nothing special. If that much is deemed worthy of being granted our technology then I am disappointed, for I’ve given my life for the Legion to see it grow, not rot before daylight. We need to look over the parts that Taylor pointed out earlier. As for the Auxesia, I recommend a call to return our ships for the time being, with a full refund of course, and perhaps try again later when they’ve shown us their worth. That’s all from me.”
Markus sat on his chair again, next to Taylor. Locklear was waving his head from left to right, to see if anyone has to add something. None replied, they all knew Brass had a reason for this, he was no madman, he was a true Legionnaire and they respected that so they all agreed with him. “Very well then” said Locklear. “We’ll proceed with your plan, but, on one condition, maybe two. You will oversee this reconstruction entirely and you will be appointed as my XO for the time being, as Moreno is MIA. Any objections?” Markus smirked “Lord Commander, why would you draw a retired man back to the frontlines?” Locklear gathered his stuff and stood up. “You don’t seem like a retired man to me. Consider this meeting dismissed.”
Lord Commander Locklear summoned Admiral Brass in his office to brief him in the result of the last command meeting. He was sitting on his chair with a pile of paperwork on his left and a glass of whiskey, and the bottle right next to it. Markus knocked and opened the door, saluting in a way that could be seen as friendly mockery. The Lord Commander gazed in idleness the Admiral. “Cut the crap Markus, grab a glass and sit.” Markus chuckled and did as Locklear said. “So Lord Commander, what’s up?” Locklear grabbed his glass and sat with his legs on the desk. “What do you mean what’s up Executive Commander? Show some respect.”Markus stopped with his glass near his mouth, in a little shock. “Already? I didn’t know you wanted me back so soon. Man, and I was enjoying my vacation too.” Locklear was not surprised. “Markus, I think I told you to cut the crap. We both know that you knew very well what you were doing.” Locklear sipped some of his whiskey. “I called you here to inform you about the ceremony. Your ceremony. It will take place tomorrow morning in the main hall, all of the High Command will be present and a number of officers.” Locklear opened a drawer from his desk and fetched something. “Here’s your uniform, don’t stain it” Locklear rolled his eyes as he handed him the outfit. “I expect a good speech tomorrow and a report about the actions you will take as a newly appointed X.O so don’t drink yourself to the bottom tonight.” Markus chuckled “My, my Lord Commander. Why would I do such a thing. Is that thing in my number or do I have to tailor it? Doesn’t matter. Alright. I’ll do as you requested. Am I dismissed? Or can I help you finish this bottle?” Locklear laughed while leaning front “Be my guest.”
August 27th 823 A.S, Fort Leniex, 14:00 hours,
Everyone was gathered in the main hall. The Lord Commander was standing on a podium, giving a speech about the recent events and soon welcomed Admiral Brass on the stage to officially appoint him as the second most important man in the Hellfire Legion. “Fleet Admiral Brass. Before you leave, you gave the Hellfire Legion your best and it is thanks to you that we are still here today. Things will only grow more difficult in the days to come, and that’s why I need good men like you to lead the Legion forward. I never imagined I would get a man like you back to the frontlines.” Locklear pauses for a little, turning towards Grand Admiral Lancaster who was holding an opened case with a pin inside. “It’s an honor to have you back, Executive Commander Brass. Libera Te Ex Inferis.” Locklear placed the pin on Brass’s uniform and saluted him, stepping off the podium to allow the new X.O to give a speech to the Legion. Brass returned the salute and stepped on to the podium.
“Men and women of the Legion. Many of you may already know me, some of you may not. I’ve served before as your leader and it is my honor to serve you again under Lord Commander Locklear. We are still here today because of the valiant efforts of many of you, as well as many who gave their lives for our cause. Thanks to you we have grown and we stand strong against the Republic. We have formed a mighty nation, a safe haven for those who have been wronged by our enemies, or driven from their home by Gallia. And we will win this war, fighting the decrepit husk of the Republic which dares to call itself Liberty on every front.
As your new Executive Commander I have three orders for each and every one of you. First: Don’t die, every single one of you is important. If you can’t win, live to fight another day. Second: Never surrender. Our enemies will not spare us even if we do, so if an escape is impossible, fight to your last breath. No Legionnaires are permitted to die under my watch until they have taken at least ten of the enemy with them. Third: Do not abandon your comrades. We are brothers in arms, comrades in a cruel war, and we are a family. Your life depends on your bonds, keep them strong and you will be strong. Once again, it is an honor to be serving the Legion. I’m looking forward to your achievements in the days to come. Thank you. That is all.”
A big applause followed after his speech and the Lord Commander along with Markus retreated into his office. “Not bad Markus, you’ve charmed them. I believe you have work to do now. Unless of course you’re interested in some of that whiskey from the other day..” Markus laughed “Sure thing, I’m not all that excited to dive into paperwork right off the bat.” The two men were left to enjoy some fine old whiskey in their peace and quiet.
People of the Legion refer to this action as a “game changer”. An old veteran returns to the side of another old veteran, both known for their service and their abilities. A strong leader with a capable commander would only mean that things would get a lot more intense and lively for everyone.