“A Voice of Action and Vigilance — An Interview with Aristocra Sodaln Purso”
Nereth’ali’norr (Thalin):
“Good evening, citizens of the Ascendancy. I am Syndic’s Aide Nereth’ali’norr, and tonight we continue our ongoing series of interviews with the leaders who shape the soul of our people. Recently, the Council of Families has welcomed a new voice among its ranks—House Purso, a Rising House whose swift ascent to Major status has drawn both admiration and curiosity across the Ascendancy.
Joining us is Aristocra Purso’dal’nuruodo, head of House Purso, to speak on his House’s guiding vision, its role within the Council, and its commitment to the enduring unity of the Chiss Ascendancy.
Aristocra Sodaln, congratulations on your elevation. Many view House Purso’s rise as a symbol of opportunity and progress within our society. Others, however, have wondered if such rapid advancement may signal ambition outpacing tradition. To begin—how does House Purso see its newfound place among the Major Houses, and what guiding principles define your service to the Ascendancy?”
Aristocra Purso’dal’nuruodo:
“Thank you for having me here today. We of House Purso feel great honor in being given the opportunity to be among and work with the other Major Houses of our time. The principles that are guiding us are the continued safety of the Chiss people within Chiss Space. We are working in conjunction with the Chiss Defense Force in patrolling regions outside of the Csilla System to keep pirate activity as low as possible.”
Thalin:
“Your cooperation with the Chiss Defense Force is commendable, Aristocra Sodaln. Many have noted House Purso’s growing involvement in maintaining order beyond the Csilla System.
I’m curious—was this initiative something you personally guided as Aristocra, a reflection of your House’s broader philosophy, or do you see this as a temporary measure until the Defense Force strengthens its own reach? In other words, is House Purso’s focus on protecting Chiss space intended as a lasting extension of your House’s role, or a means to safeguard internal stability while the Ascendancy’s external affairs evolve?”
Aristocra Sodaln:
“I will say it is a little bit of both. The defense of our species has always been a major driving force for House Purso, and by extension, we have come to view working with the CDF as something of a requirement. Especially when the Ascendancy’s attention is focused on something outside of Chiss Space, we will step up to replace what forces are rotated out of the CDF in certain events that require more manpower in the CEDF. We have no motives outside of safeguarding Chiss Space and the people within—it is our duty to do so.”
Thalin:
“A balanced and practical stance, Aristocra. It seems House Purso values both cooperation and readiness—qualities long admired in our people. Your words suggest a genuine commitment to maintaining the safety net that shields the Ascendancy, even when its gaze is drawn outward.
Still, such self-directed action by a Major House carries a certain weight. Some within the Council have spoken of the importance of maintaining clear distinctions between House initiatives and governmental command structures, to ensure harmony across all branches of service.
How do you ensure that House Purso’s operations remain aligned with the central directives of the Ascendancy, and that your actions complement—rather than overlap—the authority of the Defense Hierarchy?”
Aristocra Sodaln:
“It has a lot to do with communication. We communicate with the CDF authorities on a regular basis and often defer to their guidance on what actions and operations we should take within Chiss space. We try not to get involved in situations that the Defense Forces can readily handle, unless they are too far out and unable to respond in a timely manner.
For example, we often report pirate incursions within our borders instead of engaging in outright combat, unless it is necessary. We do, however, offer our assistance whenever possible, and we answer the call when we are needed, as we do not have the ambition to circumvent the Defense Hierarchy but rather to cooperate with those in command.”
Thalin:
“House Purso’s approach demonstrates both respect for the established command of the Chiss Defense Force and a readiness to act when circumstances demand it. It paints a picture of a House that seeks to support, rather than dominate, the structures that safeguard our people.
Looking beyond security, Major Houses also influence internal communications and culture. How does House Purso balance these responsibilities with the external initiatives you’ve described? Would you say your House’s priorities lie primarily in ensuring stability within Chiss Space, or do you also see yourselves shaping the Ascendancy’s broader communications and cultural trajectory?”
Aristocra Sodaln:
“I am unsure how much we offer in terms of culture to the Chiss people beyond our strong sense of family; we are very much minimalists. We spend more time in space than we do on any of the worlds under Ascendancy control. For example, we rarely use gravity on our vessels, as we view it as a luxury that can be lost in battle—like life support—for which we have contingencies in place as well.”
Thalin:
“An intriguing philosophy. House Purso’s emphasis on practicality and readiness—even to the point of minimizing comforts aboard your vessels—reflects a clear commitment to resilience and efficiency. It also suggests a House that values action and preparedness over cultural display.
Given this perspective, how do you see House Purso’s role among the Council of Families? Do you aim primarily to support the Ascendancy’s operational stability, or do you also hope to contribute to the Council’s deliberations and decisions in matters beyond immediate defense?”
Aristocra Sodaln:
“Mostly as you said, we strive to be the voice of action and preparedness. We do not wish to see the Ascendancy occupied again, and we raised—prior to joining the Council of Families—our concerns regarding our ability to defend ourselves should the ghosts of our past ever return.”
Thalin:
“Indeed, vigilance is a lesson hard-learned and never to be forgotten. House Purso’s focus on readiness and action underscores a House shaped by history and committed to preventing its repetition.
As one of the newest Major Houses with a voice on the Council, Aristocra Sodaln, what message would you like to share directly with the citizens of the Ascendancy? What should they understand about House Purso’s priorities, values, and commitment to the safety and future of our people?”
Aristocra Sodaln:
“Keep your heads held high. As long as we can continue to come together and work hard—Chiss or otherwise—we will create a brighter future for all future generations within the Chiss Ascendancy.”
Thalin:
“An inspiring sentiment, Aristocra Sodaln—one that speaks not only to unity among the Chiss, but to the strength found in cooperation and perseverance. Your words remind us that the future of the Ascendancy rests in collective resolve, not individual ambition.
On behalf of the Syndicure, I thank you for your time and candor. It has been a privilege to speak with you, Aristocra, and to share House Purso’s vision with our viewers across Chiss space. May your service continue to bring strength and stability to our people.”