Defending the Rift

AD Phoenix Berkana

18 March, 2024 16:06
32 ABY

After 30 days, Imperial Storm VI has come to a close.

This years competition saw a plethora of battles as all three Battlegroups sought to take the fight to the Kilji and despite some bumps along the way they did just that.

As per the instructions of Grand Admiral Rapier, the TIE Corps and Secret Order set out to prevent the Kilji Illumine from making passage across the Tkon Rift and using it as passage to attack the species that call this part of the Chaos home. Over the course of the month we saw multiple star systems swap hands as both sides attempted to take and hold the Rift, by the end however the TIE Corps still held sway over several star systems, and just as importantly, had destroyed close to 60% of the Kilji fleet.

Whilst Imperial forces that were damaged in battle had been forced to withdraw from the Rift and seek repairs at the friendly worlds of the Chaos the Kilji have no such allies to fall back on, they remain a threat but a significantly reduced one as they fall back to the worlds they have conquered and in attempt to lick their wounds ahead of any future conflicts.


With the strategic victory in the bag, I am pleased to announce that all participating pilots will receive the Tkon Rift Campaign Medal alongside any Operational Readiness Awards they are due.

A final map has been uploaded to the Imperial Storm VI hub and I will be compiling all of the relevant statistics for Squadron Commanders over the course of the next few days.

Finally, I'd like to thank all of the Team Leads - FA La'an, VA Setzer, RA fr0zen and RA Genie for helping me run this edition of the game, it always takes a lot of behind the scenes work to get it going and a significant amount of patience! I'd also like to thank all of the INN posters, you added a very entertaining element to the month which a lot of people have commented on!!

A post game survey will also be landing in the inboxes of all TC pilots & and I would be grateful if you could take the time to give me any feedback you can on how Imperial Storm VI went for you.

Destiny 2 and Battlefronts Classic Added to Website

AD Silwar Naiilo

18 March, 2024 14:56
32 ABY

Destiny 2 matches can now be submitted for both PvE and PvP matches on the website. Battlefronts Classic (that seems like the right grammar? Don't ask me, I'm a pilot, not an English major) have also been added for PvP submissions, all thanks to our Internet Officer, HA Turtle Jerrar.

If you have backlogged screenshots, now's the time to submit them. We'll accept out-of-date screenshots within a one-week grace period, but after March 25th we'll continue with our 72 hour rule. As always, feel free to send any questions to the COO or your friendly neighborhood COOA.

It's Movie Night: The Last Starfighter

HA Turtle Jerrar

17 March, 2024 21:21
32 ABY

Join us on the Emperor's Hammer TIE Corps Discord on Monday, 18 March at 1930 Eastern/2330 UTC for a watch party: The Last Starfighter, hosted by Commander OL"Davy Jonez.

Report from the ISDII Challenge

CM Jagged Fell III

15 March, 2024 14:09
32 ABY

Soldiers of Battlegroup III, we are engaged in FIVE separate battles for the very soul of the Rift today. This has been a long campaign and it is nearly finished. We must hold the line and free these worlds from the slavery the Marmalades will inflict if we fail today.

For the Emperor’s Hammer!

LT Promotion in Delta

HA Plif

15 March, 2024 01:50
32 ABY

From the Commander of Delta Squadron, COL Highlander:

For immediately completing 2 Imperial University courses upon his arrival to Delta Squadron ...congratulations Lieutenant!!!!!

Nice work and congratulations, LT Alexander Dœnut!

CM Therj'en'nuruodo Retires From COOA

AD Silwar Naiilo

14 March, 2024 16:01
32 ABY

CM Therj'en'nuruodo has stepped back into the reserves while he focuses on IRL responsibilities. We appreciate him joining the COOAs and helping us out while he was part of the team!

If you're interested in becoming a COOA, take a look at the COE exam and send the COO (me) a ping over email or Discord. Responsibilities include:

  • Processing PvE and PvP screenshots
  • Investigating new game proposals
  • Regular review of game rules
  • Running and/or reviewing Combat Events
  • Restocking coffee

Destiny 2, Battlefront Classic Support

AD Silwar Naiilo

13 March, 2024 22:34
32 ABY

Destiny 2 and the Battlefront Classic collection are being added to the TIE Corps!

Destiny 2 matches can be played immediately (beginning March 14, 0:00GMT, basically at this time of posting.) The website doesn't allow matches to be uploaded yet, but any matches played beyond this point can be submitted, even if you're over the 72 hour limit. Take screenshots showing that you've earned a victory with your name on it, and you can send it in for approval. As usual, you must have at least one kill or objective point.

Battlefront Classic launches at the same time, and the same rules apply: keep screenshots of the victory screen showing the list of players who won, and send it in. Same rules apply here, show at least one kill or objective point. Custom games must have their settings shown as an additional secreenshot.

As Battlefront Classic is a new relaunch, we may adjust requirements over time.

Along with the Battlefront Classic launch, we will host a new event: Classically Battlefront. This will track the number of matches played, and pilots will earn awards according to the number of matches played. Anyone who plays at least 25 will earn an IAR, and Iron Stars will be awarded based on placement - with the option of earning a DFC.

Please reach out to the COO, TCCS, or any COOA if you have any questions!

Lieutenant Promotions in Alpha Squadron

FA John T. Clark

13 March, 2024 17:00
32 ABY

SL MsMayham of Alpha Squadron has given us insight into her character through the INPR and completed the TCCORE IU course.

SL Alexander Stark, also hailing from Alpha Squadon, earned their first Legions of Combat in Star Wars: Squadrons.

Thus, both pilots are promoted to full Lieutenant.

Congratulations, LT MsMayham & LT Alexander Stark!

Armon Ferro Promoted to Lieutenant Commander

FA John T. Clark

12 March, 2024 17:25
32 ABY

From Eagle Squadron CMDR COL Miles Prower:

For displaying exceptional activity as a Flight Member within Eagle Squadron over the last two months, it is my pleasure as squadron commander to endorse Lieutenant Ferro for advancement in rank after placing special trust in the loyalty to the Empire, integrity and abilities of Lieutenant Ferro. In the view of these special qualities and their demonstrated potential to serve in the higher grade, Lieutenant Ferro is to be promoted to Lieutenant Commander.

Congratulations, LCM Armon Ferro!

Report from the ISDII Challenge

CM Jagged Fell III

12 March, 2024 16:08
32 ABY

Soldiers of Battlegroup III, to your ships! We are fighting multiple battles across the Rift to stop the insidious spread of the Marmalade menace.

Our forces are working to liberate two separate worlds from the tyrannical religious slavery that has been visited upon them. In the battle for A697 we have beaten back the first wave, but a second wave has descended on our forces, this time with near equal firepower. However in the battle for P3009 we vastly out match the pitiful forces the Enleavened Janitor Kale has sent against us.

To arms! For the Emperor’s Hammer!

Report from the ISDII Challenge

CM Jagged Fell III

11 March, 2024 12:55
32 ABY

One thing that has troubled this reporter since the inception of this war with the Kilji has been their rapid technological advancement in recent decades.

From the records of Grand Admiral Thrawn, and those of the Chiss Expansionary Defense Force, we know that the last time the Kilji Illumine sent a Kilhorde into the Chaos regions around Chiss space their ships used simple Electrostatic Barriers instead of shields and Spectrum Lasers rather than turbolasers. Also their largest ship, the flagship of their Generalirius, would barely been as large as a Victory Class Star Destroyer. Now their fleet are peer equals to our own, with their flagship for a mere General as large as a SSD. How did they advance so quickly? How did they build such a large fleet?

The Kilhorde that was sent into this region 50 years ago could easily have been completely annihilated by just one of our Battlegroups, if not by just one ISDII and her support ships. How are they fielding a fleet bigger than three of our Battlegroups?

We begin to see some answers from the data obtained by the Secret Order. Their shield systems and weapons design have striking similarities to those of the Trade Federation during the waining days of the Clone Wars. Is it possible that a faction of those insurrectionists found shelter from the justice due to them out here in the Unknown Regions? Once again, Grand Admiral Thrawn's records show that he destroyed a similar group of Neimoidians who also had tried to hide here in the Chaos after the Clone Wars. Did another group also do the same but were found by the recently devastated Kilji?

Are we now fighting the descendents of the forces that plunged the galaxy into the horrors of war? A war from which our glorious Empire rose to prevent any more like it in the future?

Miguel Promoted to Lieutenant Commander

FA John T. Clark

10 March, 2024 17:46
32 ABY

From Rho Squadron CMDR CPT Maston Dane:

LT Miguel, with great enthusiasm, is the type of pilot I look for in Rho Squadron. He has surpassed all my expectations of what a new pilot would do. I’m truly proud seeing him take on challenges and he is actively making Rho a better place. No other pilot under me keeps in such constant contact with me. Its rare he goes a day without messaging me and they are thoughtful and inquisitive. He is always asking about the various aspects of EH and requesting aide to ensure they’re done right and he is always a pleasure to converse with. He expresses excitement about the entirety of the offerings of the TIE Corps and has even gone beyond that by joining the Dark Brotherhood and even helped devise, organize and participate in a 3 day watch party marathon of the Original Trilogy of historical holorecords, things he had never seen. The event brought in a staggering 30+ participants and resulted in a pilot joining us – Miguel has been a Lieutenant since 2024-01-03 and has earned at least an ISM each of the Next 2 months as a FM and has taken and passed the TCCORE. There is no more promising a pilot than the pilot who is excited he’s here, ready to bring justice forcefully to the Rebels. I’m proud and honored to have him amongst us. He has such great potential and has handled himself admirably. I hereby, with great pride, recommend he be given the rank of Lieutenant Commander for the month of March 2024.

Congratulations, LCM Miguel!

Report from the ISDII Challenge

CM Jagged Fell III

10 March, 2024 17:08
32 ABY

Take heart soldiers of the TIE Corps, through the efforts of the Secret Order we have had a much needed boost to our fighting prowess.

They have negotiated, or coerced, the ship yards of the Paccian Governance to repair several of our ships.
Their agents have also infiltrated the Kilji fleet and have returned with vital intelligence for our scientists.

With their information we now know the Marmalade's weapon specifications and have tuned our shields to block more damage from their ships. They also brought out the designs of their shield systems, allowing our weapons experts to calibrate our systems to more effectively peirce their defenses.

Report from the ISDII Challenge

CM Jagged Fell III

09 March, 2024 13:08
32 ABY

Continue the Fight!

Our Secret Order has finished their mission and we will soon be seeing the fruits of their labors on the battlefield. But in the meantime, we are locked in many heated battles for the survival of our fleets and the liberty of the whole of the Tkon Rift.

It has been a hard fought campaign fellow soldiers of the TIE Corps, but our fight is not yet done. To your fighters and death to our enemies!

New Flight Leader for Alpha

HA Plif

09 March, 2024 05:56
32 ABY

LCM Shane, formerly a Flight Member in Alpha Squadron, has been selected to be Alpha's Flight Leader. Good luck in your new role!

Report from the ISDII Challenge

CM Jagged Fell III

08 March, 2024 13:09
32 ABY

Success!

We have managed to re-engage the enemy fleet from the Battle of P3069. We found them in Sector 1105, likely running for safety. Has this orange scourge turned yellow?

To arms soldiers of the TIE Corps! Are fleet is numerically smaller than the Marmalades' but we have greater amount of firepower and have a chance to deal a serious blow to their war fighting ability in the Tkon Rift.

I know you may be getting tired, but we are entering the final week of this campaign and we soon will be reinforced by the efforts of our Secret Order.

For the TIE Corps! For the Emperor’s Hammer!

New Flight Leader for Kappa

HA Plif

08 March, 2024 07:39
32 ABY

LCM Gabba Gabagool, previously a Flight Member in Kappa, has been selected to be Kappa's new Flight Leader. Congratulations and good luck in your new role!

Many thanks to the outgoing FL, MAJ JetMech, for his service in that role for as long as he was able to contribute. It's been a while since he's been a FM, so I hope he takes it easy for a bit and returns to a leadership position when he's ready.

Report from the ISDII Challenge

CM Jagged Fell III

07 March, 2024 12:18
32 ABY

VICTORY

Warriors of the TIE Corps, we engaged the primary fleet of the Kilhorde and emerged having destroyed 13 of their capital ships. Their fleet is currently on the run from us as we have wheeled about attempting to re-engage them and prevent their escape.

This victory was only possible due to the extraordinary efforts of all the pilots of the TIE Corps. This reporter salutes you.

This victory does not mean the end of this war how ever. We must pursue the Marmalades wherever they hide and continue to break their spirit.

For the TIE Corps!

Report from the ISDII Challenge

CM Jagged Fell III

06 March, 2024 12:53
32 ABY

Another strange message was forwarded to my in-box today. This one seems to be a transcript of the Roost's final transmission.

[static] ... the Kilji swarm ... [static]
[static] ... no escape ... [static]

[static] ... we fight ... [static]
[static] ... we stand ... [static]
[static] ... we sacrifice ... [static]
[static] ... we honor ... [static]

[static] ... the Kilji rage ... [static]
[static] ... the fire and blood ... [static]
[static] ... the screams and pain ... [static]
[static] ... the death and loss ... [static]

[static] ... we resist ... [static]
[static] ... we defy ... [static]
[static] ... we strike ... [static]
[static] ... we soar ... [static]

[static] ... the Tkon Rift ... [static]
[static] ... our final stand ... [static]
[static] ... our legacy ... [static]
[static] ... our glory ... [static]

[static] ... remember us ... [static]
[static] ... the CRL Roost ... [static]
[static] ... the brave ... [static]
[static] ... the fallen ... [static]

Remember the Roost!

Report from the ISDII Challenge

CM Jagged Fell III

04 March, 2024 07:31
32 ABY

TO ARMS!!!

Our Battlegroup Commanders have decided that the Marmalade advance stops HERE! They have committed our forces to the capture of P3069 and we will do it or die trying! Our forces are on near equal footing with the hated slavers, but if we are to overcome their preternatural combat accuracy we must all rush to the combat simulators and do our duty!

For the liberation of the Rift! For the TIE Corps! For we are the Emperor's Hammer!

Report from the ISDII Challenge

CM Jagged Fell III

03 March, 2024 14:54
32 ABY

We continue our valiant fight above the world of P3069 but our brothers-in-arms in Battlegroup I have found themselves in two separate engagements at the moment.

The Marmalade main fleet has found the ISDII Grey Wolf in sector 0307 and they have begun their attack on our fellow TIE Corps ship.

Meanwhile one of their Interdictors is being attacked in sector 0905.

In none of these battles can our forces emerge victorious, but we will make them pay for every meter!

LT Promotion in Kappa Squadron

FA John T. Clark

03 March, 2024 11:31
32 ABY

For completing their first Imperial University course, the TCCORE at a very good 94%, SL C Wrench of Kappa Squadron has been promoted to full Lieutenant.

Congratulations, LT C Wrench!

New SQXO for Theta

HA Plif

03 March, 2024 07:31
32 ABY

As requested by CMDR/LC Vapen Van’an and approved by BGCOM/RA fr0Zen, LT Nix Varro of Sin Squadron has been selected to transfer to Theta to become its new Squadron Executive Officer (SQXO). Good luck in your new role!

Report from the ISDII Challenge

CM Jagged Fell III

02 March, 2024 18:39
32 ABY

Well warriors of Battlegroup III, the time has come for us to shoulder the responsibility of a near impossible battle. The A/CRS Hellfire and her TIE Fighters have been attacked while attempting to liberate the world of P3069 from the zealots.

We are significantly out gunned, but we will make them pay to hold this world dearly with blood. Don't allow them to drive the Hellfire from the Rift without exacting a harsh cost. Let this be a glorious battle that will be told for generations to come by the free peoples of the Tkon Rift.

To your fighters, the Battle of P3069 has commenced!

Imperial University Academic Integrity Policy update

AD Sylas Pitt

01 March, 2024 21:53
32 ABY

Recently, the Training Office has encountered a few issues with new members in the Imperial University, an issue that was not their fault, but rather a lack of forwardness. While the Training Manual is publicly available to all in the Wiki, we soon came to realize that this document was not high up on new member's priority lists when engaging with the club.

As a solution, the Internet Office (thanks Turtle!) put together a yearly prompt for all members about the Academic Integrity Policy. Before students can take any exams, they will have to acknowledge the policy, with renewal approval on a yearly basis. We hope this cuts back on misunderstanding and mistakes from newer members that were unfamiliar with the policies employed by the Training Office.

If any member has any doubts or concerns, my DMs are open.

Academic Integrity Policy.png

Report from the ISDII Challenge

CM Jagged Fell III

01 March, 2024 12:53
32 ABY

In the second battle of sector 1204, the Emperor’s Hammer forces decimated the Marmalade fleet and left them all as burning wrecks.

A small force from Battlegroup II was briefly engaged with a Kilji picket group in sector 1105, but the TIE Corps ships are effecting a retreat to conserve our numbers in this arduous campaign.

The worlds of the Rift continue to change hands as the different armadas traverse the region in search of one another.

Our forces have taken heavy losses in the opening weeks of this campaign, but this reporter still believes that the superiority of the TIE Corps pilots will win out and we will save those of the Tkon Rift from the slavery offered by the orange scourge.

Report from the ISDII Challenge

CM Jagged Fell III

29 February, 2024 20:12
32 ABY

The battle here in sector 1204 is shaping up to be a total victory for the Emperor’s Hammer, but we must remain focused and continue the fight.

While most planets within the Tkon Rift have changed hands in the last weeks, we continue to work to save the denizens of this Rift from slavery at the hands of the Marmalades.

There have been reports of dissension in the ranks of the legions of vassals that Kilji force into service. Recently their sabotage of the Kilhorde has caused a nearly 50% reduction of combat ability for the whole of the Orange Fleet. We must use this opportunity to push them back and drive them from every world!

Remember the Roost, remember all the TIE Corps ships forced to retreat!

Star Wars: Dark Forces Remaster Released

RA Alexandre Morgan

28 February, 2024 19:47
32 ABY

After months of waiting, Star Wars: Dark Forces Remaster has been released! Developed by Nightdive Studios and LucasArts, the remastered game features new content, modernized graphics, and updated mechanics. Now we can enjoy Kyle Katarn's story with a modern twist on many different platforms, including PC, PlayStations 4 and 5, Xbox One, Xbox S|X, and Nintendo Switch.

Click the image below to watch the launch trailer and learn more about the game!

Dark Forces Remaster Title Card

Report from the ISDII Challenge

CM Jagged Fell III

28 February, 2024 13:03
32 ABY

This reporter has received a strange missive in my email in box today and have decided to share its contents here.

Greetings, my fellow believers!
Today is a special day for the EH
For today, we have all been chosen.
We must save ourselves, the galaxy and perhaps even existence itself,
We must fly XWA-FREE 154, and we must review it!

You all know the story of how the GN Master created XWA-FREE 154
One of the greatest ever made, with his own hands and his own genius.

You all know why you have been selected. A group of loyal and faithful servants!
To fly XWA-FREE 154!
And to carry out divine will!

You all know what our mission is,
A holy and righteous crusade
To destroy the evil orangy gooish empire
And to ensure freedom for us all!

But do you know what the reward is?
Do you know what the GN Master promises?
Do you know what XWA-FREE 154 offers?
Do you know what we will gain?

Let me tell you, my friends
Let me reveal to you the truth
Let me share with you the joy
Let me make you laugh with the joke

The reward is eternal salvation
The GN Master promises us a place in his kingdom
XWA-FREE 154 offers us a ride to heaven
We will gain the glory of the GN Master

But do not be afraid, my friends
Do not be sad, my friends
Do not be angry, my friends
Do not be fooled, my friends

For this is the will of the GN Master
For this is the plan of the GN Master
For this is the joke of the GN Master
For this is the love of the GN Master

He loves us so much that he wants us to be with him
He loves us so much that he wants us to share his glory
He loves us so much that he wants us to enjoy his joke
He loves us so much that he wants us to laugh with him

So let us rejoice, my friends
Let us be glad, my friends
Let us praise him, my friends
Let us laugh with him, my friends

For we are the chosen ones
The pilots of XWA-FREE 154
The saviors of the galaxy
The children of GN Master

This war has certainly become strange...

VA Robert Hogan awarded the Grand Order of the Emperor

HA Turtle Jerrar

28 February, 2024 01:54
32 ABY

The Grand Order of the Emperor is awarded to VA Robert Hogan in recognition of his exceptionally meritorious service to the Emperor’s Hammer through his combined efforts within the Training and Internet Offices. Robert Hogan is hereby inducted into the Order, with all the rights and privileges associated with such recognition, including display of the ceremonial dagger on his Emperor’s Hammer uniform.

Robert has been an integral member of the Training Office since day one as a Training Officer Assistant. He is the creator and developer of the Qualifications we have integrated, which has seen an incredulous uptick in member interaction with the Imperial University as a whole. His elevation to Command Attaché for the Training Officer was due to his insightfulness, his willingness to entertain and develop new ideas, and his unfiltered honesty when asked for an opinion on a subject. With his help, the Training Office was able to expand on the Qualifications program, develop and publish a Training Office Manual for current and future members of the office, develop the academic journal for the IU called "Proceedings", and most courses have received an update from HTML to Markdown. Robert has always been a reliable source of constructive criticism and unbiased opinions when discussing new courses, qualifications, and new members of the Training Office. He is a mentor in the many fields he occupies with pride and dedication.

Robert is recognized as the “go to” person within the Internet Office for creative works, particularly 2D and 3D graphics. From small projects to large, Robert Hogan has demonstrated the willingness to step up whenever asked. As a contributor to Internet Office projects, Robert’s consistent dedication to improving the quality of Emperor’s Hammer materials is noteworthy. His contributions are widely featured on the web site and Wiki, as well as in companion applications like TTT3. This has included continual improvements to Emperor’s Hammer medals, uniforms, and heraldry items. Most recently, his efforts led to the re-implementation of the position badges for Emperor’s Hammer Command Staff, Attaché, and Advisor positions. In addition, his concept and design work for the General Campaign Medal has contributed to a new and unique recognition system within the Emperor’s Hammer that will be enjoyed by members across multiple subgroups.

Robert’s initiative and creativity has directly led to new developments, such as the fully rendered 3D medal and ribbon upgrade devices implemented in TTT3 v3.1.0. These devices bring a beautiful and functional upgrade to the medals depicted on uniforms and personnel records. Robert’s initiative has also contributed to a “back catalog” of designs and concepts that are likely to see use in future projects.

Robert Hogan’s meritorious achievements are in keeping with the finest traditions of service to the Emperor’s Hammer and the membership, and reflect great credit upon himself, the Training and Internet Offices, and the Emperor’s Hammer Command Staff.

Jointly recommended by TO/AD Sylas Pitt and IO/HA Turtle Jerrar, and approved by FC/GA Rapier.

Report from the ISDII Challenge

CM Jagged Fell III

27 February, 2024 13:25
32 ABY

(Model and Background credit to TFTC)
Remember the Roost

Report from the ISDII Challenge

CM Jagged Fell III

26 February, 2024 23:18
32 ABY

The last remnants of the eastern fleet have been forced to retreat from the Rift. But they inflicted a considerable amount of damage to the hated Marmalades considering the size of their force.

Once again elements of the TIE Corps fleet have been caught in a battle where they are vastly out gunned. This time only the pilots of Battlegroup II can spur our comrades-in-arms on, but we of Battlegroup III still cheer for your valor.

Our forces continue to work to liberate two Kilji infested worlds, and their task will soon be done.

We of Battlegroups I and III wait and recoup our strength for the next battle that is on the horizon.

Remember the Roost!

Report from the ISDII Challenge

CM Jagged Fell III

25 February, 2024 14:16
32 ABY

Our intrepid warriors of the eastern fleet may not last to see another day in the Tkon Rift, but they ARE NOT going without a fight. Through your efforts they are valiantly striking back at the slaver fleet. Don't let up. This campaign is just starting.

While the Marmalades have spread their horrors to most of the worlds of the Rift, Emperor’s Hammer forces have reached the planets of P587 and A3828. The enemy named these worlds as Scinto IV and Terakine in their broadcast one week ago. We will soon liberate them from their foreign-space invaders!

New FL for Theta

LC Vapen Van’an

25 February, 2024 02:16
32 ABY

Following a brief period of the Flight Leader spot in Theta being empty, LT Jai Thorne, has been selected to be the next Flight Leader of Theta Squadron. We will follow your career with great interest!

Report from the ISDII Challenge

CM Jagged Fell III

24 February, 2024 16:03
32 ABY

DISASTER HAS STRUCK

The Kilji Fleet that so badly mauled our valiant warriors of the eastern fleet have found them again! Once again the ISDII Hammer, ISDII Relentless, and MC-40 Roost have been forced into a lopsided battle.

We of the TIE Corps must do whatever we can to aid their attacks but I fear for those aboard these ships.

To arms, we will not go quietly into the night!

Fighting Again, Never Alone

LT Lucas Lucky Finn

24 February, 2024 00:36
32 ABY

The morning of 24/2 32 ABY, a distressed visitor came to one of INN’s main outposts. She identified herself as the mother of a fighter lost during the battle of HEX 1307. In her grief, she still had the determination and patience needed to plead up the chain, from receptionist to editor. The relief on her face was palpable as she gave over a handwritten note, the desperation to be heard and trusted finally being released from her bereaved soul.

We give her this spotlight not as special treatment, but rather a forwarding of what war can mean. Protect your comrades, and always trust the beauty of community we may find in the empire.

I am proud of the children I have raised. I am proud when they make jokes amongst themselves, even if it means wasted peanut butter from smearing it on their then-young faces. I am proud when they trust me enough to share their woes of adolescence, down to the unfortunate heartbreaks. I am proud when they can’t help but hold a grin during their graduations.

My son, Xylon, was unbreakable in his joy after gaining full certification by the Imperial University, and I was proud yet again. But, I soon felt the deep fear that sows your heart during deployments, one so profound that it’s nearly impossible to elucidate. My most difficult jobs now included suppressing my anxieties during communications with him. He did not need the negativity. He did not need to know how often I kept myself awake by being worried sick when a new battle report came in near (what I assumed, as transmissions are severely limited on the field) close to his locale. I felt he did not need to know my world of worry, as I helped create his very life. I needed to be the strong- the encouraging- the loving and caring- part of his world.

Eventually, I forced myself to avoid live action reports. It’s just not sustainable to be compulsively counting the hours since any previous contact, lying awake in fear from imagined aberrations of tragedy, and having stress high enough to burst into tears at any moment. Not to say my mental state was cured, only that I could no longer handle the extrinsic anxiety fuel. I tried to tell myself, "Why mourn before he’s gone?"

Muzzling my nerves helped then, but as time can bring any possibility, the moment that crushed me with the mere thought has now come to fruition. Word of his ultimate sacrifice spurred a devastation so profound I cannot blame myself for previously protecting my health, as absolutely nothing could have possibly prepared me for this.

May he rest in that same contented, proud feeling we shared at his graduation. I must believe he understood the risks and found it a worthy way to serve, just as he did for nearly a decade.

All I can ask is that people may hear my words and understand- You may be serving a force beyond yourselves, but nothing can replace the world you create. Family, by blood or choice, will be there for you. Find the support, and create the support. Your realm is bigger than you may know. Protect, believe, and live.

Posted with the parent anonymized, as per request

Report from the ISDII Challenge

CM Jagged Fell III

23 February, 2024 20:36
32 ABY

Today is a sad day fellow soldiers of the TIE Corps. Our brethren aboard the ships of the Eastern Fleet have just suffered a crushing battle. While the lead ships from each of the three Battlegroups amongst the group have escaped the battle, many of their support ships were forced to retreat from the Rift in order to affect repairs.

Our forces, headed by the ISDII Hammer, ISDII Relentless, and supported by the MC-40 Roost faced a Kilji fleet more than a third larger than their force. They fought valiantly and damaged the enemy as good as they received, but the disparity in our forces were too much and the Eastern Fleet has been forced to retreat from the battle in sector 1307.

All is not lost, and this war against the religious zealots is far from over. As we speak our central and western fleets are maneuvering to turn the tide of this campaign back in favor of the forces of peace, order, and liberty.

As a Fleet we must lick our wounds and strengthen our resolve to beat back the Marmalades and their barbaric slavery!

Report from the ISDII Challenge

CM Jagged Fell III

22 February, 2024 21:07
32 ABY

We have experienced both our first victories and reversals to the despised Marmalades. The worlds of NE256 and G5406 have been shown the freedom that only the Emperor’s Hammer can secure, while the previously secured planets of LE855 and Q0604 have been visited by the murderous slavers while our forces have been deployed elsewhere. This reporter shutters to think what depredations those religious zealots will visit upon the populations of those worlds during the time it will take for our forces to reliberate them, but we must focus on the greater good of all those depending on us in this war against extremism.

The final hours of our first major battle with the orange scourge are coming to a close. Our comrades-in-arms aboard the ISDII Hammer, ISDII Relentless, and MC-40 Roost are facing overwhelming odds and it is our duty as a wider fleet to do everything in our power to aid them. Reports from the battlefield state that the Kilji force opposing the two Star Destroyers have among they number 4 ISDII analogs, 6 VSDII analogs, 4 A/CRS, 2 INT, 8 CRV, and ancillary support craft too numerous to report here. Needless to say, this engagement will be bloody for the brave warriors of the TIE Corps, but we know that they will give better then the take. And their efforts will help weaken this Marmalade fleet and allow our forces to engage them at a time of our choosing.

Lieutenant Promotions in Sin Squadron

FA John T. Clark

22 February, 2024 17:25
32 ABY

For earning their respective first Legions of Combat in Star Wars: Squadrons, SL Lucas Lucky Finn & SL OBSObiwan both hailing from Sin Squadron, have been promoted to full Lieutenants.

Congratulations, LT OBSObiwan!
And Congratulations, LT Lucas Lucky Finn!

Report from the ISDII Challenge

CM Jagged Fell III

21 February, 2024 16:39
32 ABY

"The Galaxy is a dark forest; cruel and brutal. We are the light. We are civilization and order."

There had been some disappointment in the ranks over the pitiful single corvette that the MC90 Renegade and accompanying forces found above G5406. Still we have done our duty to ensure the slaver ship's swift destruction.

Meanwhile, the ISDII Challenge and our task force has arrived at NE256 and will soon have secured it for the preservation of liberty in this chaotic rift. Although we have received word from the Kilji that they have expanded their barbarity to yet another system, P3059. It will just be one more system that we will burn these invaders out of when the time comes.

But now reports are flooding in that a large Marmalade force has engaged the ISDII Hammer, ISDII Relentless, and the MC-40 Roost in open space at map coordinates grid 1307. Early reports are that this enemy battle group may comprise over half of the Kilhorde sent to enslave this region of the Chaos.

Our forces may be out numbered, but we of the TIE Corps will fight valiantly to make these zealots pay for every kilometer of their advance!

SL Jafan Russ Promoted to LT

HA Plif

20 February, 2024 21:08
32 ABY

From the commander of Firebird Squadron, CPT SirCaleb:

Upon graduation from IWATS, SL Jafan wasted no time in finding some Rebel victims. Quickly after joining Firebird Squadron Jafan also completed further education from the Imperial University. As his Commanding officer I am beaming with pride as I recommend SL Jafan Russ for a promotion to Lieutenant.

Congratulations, LT Jafan Russ!

Report from the ISDII Challenge

CM Jagged Fell III

20 February, 2024 17:08
32 ABY

A great cheer was heard across the Fleet and the Tkon Rift as a whole as the first engagement of this war commenced.

The Emperor’s Hammer's forces, led by the MC90 Renegade of Battlegroup III along with other forces from all three Battlegroups, have arrived at planet G5406 and found a lone corvette of the Kilji invaders. Pilots all across the Fleet have quickly rushed to their craft to help deliver a decisive, and crushing defeat to the Marmalades in this small skirmish.

True that the loss of this lone slaver ship will not materially reduce the danger the Kilji pose to the denizens of the Rift. But we of the Emperor’s Hammer have sworn to stamp out this menace and we have drawn first blood in the war for freedom from religious tyranny!

The War on Satin, and the proper war going on the sector

COL Mordred

19 February, 2024 22:49
32 ABY

OVERALLS OR DRESS UNIFORMS

Answer the pool now, on Gl'enda and Al'pohn'se's Morning Show!

G: Chiss Strategic Command continues to meet on Obukal to discuss the situation of the frontier worlds in the Tkon Rift and it's been a MESS. Lots of satins and velvets contrasting each other. Dibs to the Bastien family for keeping it in touch with reality.
A: Indeed, it was a total horror with the dignitaries carrying more platinum in their robes decoration than their families care to pay their hairdressers. The Imperials on the other hand looking slick on their dress uniforms, Oh my!
G: We had some sons and daughters of the Chiss with them last night, that dark brown does wonders on our bluish skin.
A: I saw a pilot with a familiar demeanor called Bronx Bluar, definetely Chiss, but the quiet handsome type!
C: From the roster I've recognized Chity'ke'nik and Therj'en'nuruodo. Not to mention our favorite banished pilot, Camord'red'oburo. Aut Ria pulled some strings to allow him to land as I've heard.
A:I heard we got an exclusive too. Pei'Mer'Folky has some footage for us!
(Cuts to a young chiss woman, with a very professional look and a badge "PRESS" on her blouse. Behind her, the main briefing room of the ISD Challenge)
P: Greetings from the frontlines my dearest, we are here in the Imperial Star Destroyer Challenge, the mighty warriors of the Emperor's Hammer have been fighting fiercely against the Kiljik! The pilots of the Challenge are just returning from a deep patrol between sectors 0407 and 0711.
(a holo map substitutes the screen but it's cut)
P: Sorry for the abrupt cut, we have a transmission live from Vice Admiral Locke... There's a battle going on right now... People are scrambling around me... I see a familiar face, let's see if I can get his attention!
(camera shaking as the reporter runs to an officer talking to some pilots)
"We're going back in NOW, they've just deployed.... Lady, what the heck are you doing here with that holocam?!? We are busy!" If Jagged Fell could breathe fire, the girl would be toast.
P: G&A Morning show, sir! We got C5 clearance! Are we deploying right now?!
"The enemy is advancing faster than anticipated, we'll meet them head one on the west fold and if it goes well, well sweep eastwards. Happy? Now I got a flight to run and orders to follow!" And he ran after the pilots.
P: And that's it, allied forces are moving! We'll open an vidstream with live updates as we have new developments!
(back to studio)
G: Oh my, was that Jagged Fell III?? What a scandal!
A: But what a fit for that pilot's overalls!

Report from the ISDII Challenge

CM Jagged Fell III

19 February, 2024 18:36
32 ABY

Things are starting to ramp up in the Tkon Rift. The Marmalades have secured their beachhead worlds of P587, A3828, and P3864. The invaders have released a dispatch naming these worlds Scinto IV, Terakine, and Carido Prime. We in the Emperor’s Hammer have safeguarded the worlds of LE855, Q0604, and E149N.

Data released to the wider public shows that our fleet has split into multiple smaller units and we and currently journeying to secure the vulnerable worlds in the middle of the Rift to halt the predation of these slavers from being visited on yet more unsuspecting populations.

None of the fleet elements have yet encountered the ships of this orange scourge, but when we do, we will smash them into a pulp, for we have the

Stength to rise; power to fly

Use of AI in IU Exams

AD Sylas Pitt

19 February, 2024 13:05
32 ABY

The Training Office would like to remind ALL members that the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to answer Imperial University exams is strictly prohibited.

If you have any concerns or doubts about a question or the course material, we urge all members to reach out to any member of the Training Office, and we would be more than happy to guide and help you. All exams are considered open-book, thus rendering the need for any AI help as unnecessary and against the spirit of academia.

You can find a list of Training Office personnel here

You can review the Training Office's AI Policy here