Junction Cleansing Wave | Panatha Burns | EE+Dasid Anya, AC+Ammuud/Bonadan

[Laertia Io]

Following: Nuetralizer Sniper Team

Team Members:

Todd, Lundgren, Hudson (Model 1 Nuetralizer)

Sara (Advanced Model 1)

Weapons:

DC-15A (Sniper Variant, assigned to Todd)

DLT-19 (Squad support, assigned to Lundgren)

DC-15S (Stock, Assigned to Sara)

DC-15S (Under Barrel Grenade Launcher, Laser Sight, assigned to Hudson)

Location: Cleared out apartment.

Waiting was, without a doubt, the worst part of the process.

But when the order came...

Glory.

A Sister had been assigned to them. The Model 1's, clad in heavy robes to disguise their involvement, faces wrapped tight with bandages, had been trying out new warfare techniques.

There were exactly four teams like this on Panatha. Just enough to say if they were caught, it could be chalked up to an independent mercenary action on the Panathan's part, while still allowing Ingrid L'lerim full ability to deny all prior knowledge of their involvement.

Todd the Nuetralizer watched through the scope of his DC-15A, watching Ashlan Soldiers fall back as the Panathans engaged them fiercely. Unnatural storms ravaged the surface.

Todd, one of the surviving Model 1's from Kerest, where Darth Xiphos had suffered a breakdown, sniped one of the retreating Troop commanders. Their Sister, an Advanced Model 1 named Sara, had left a combination of small, powerful fans and homemade smoke grenades to obscure the fleeing troops vision.

While the other troops scrambled for cover after watching their leader go down, he managed to snipe three more. Lundgren, manning a DLT-19 on a tripod, would fire in bursts to keep the heads of the enemy down. Meanwhile, Sara, disguised as a memorial statue, would suddenly shift into her default form, that of a thin, pale woman with long brown hair in a shiny black catsuit, retrieve her DC-15 Carbine from her Nanite body, and gunned them all down from behind during the dust and smoke.

"So Todd...you were at Kerest?" Hudson asked as Sara dragged the bodies into a building after stripping them of their weapons. He was adjusting a comm unit and also served as their escort.

"Yeah..." Todd answered. "Pure chitshow. Mom lost it hard..."

"Why are we still allied with the Cult?" Hudson asked. "I don't get it...

"Because when you're this far down the rabbit hole you don't get to pick and choose your friends anymore. You take 'em and bare the consequences." Lundgren said.

"But the whole original reason for Mother aligning with the cult--to preserve the Sith Empire--is gone." Hudson pointed out, watching from a window as a lone Jedi Knight approached.

"Hey, you got one of the goody two shoes coming up fast on your six, Sara. Guess all the death drew him." Hudson warned.

"I'm not exactly made to kill them on sight, brothers..." Sara said, taking the form of a statue once more, holding a sword.

"Jedi in range..." Todd said as the powerfully built Jedi in silver armor approached.

"Take the shot?" Lundgren asked.

"Nah, not yet...let him wonder...a little. Besides, I don't trust sniping to kill a Jedi..." Todd answered. "You gotta be tricky..."

"He's hovering around Sara. He's suspicious..."

"Ashlan motherfethers..." Hudson snapped.

"Let him pass...he's right next to her..." Todd said, watching the suspicious Jedi move around the area where he had felt the violence.

"I'm guessing he's a Knight. He probably feels Sara, but he can't pinpoint her..." Lundgren surmised.

"We'll have to be careful about this...he could end up calling in a large number of reinforcements if we feth up..." Todd warned.

Todd angled his rifle, staring at the Jedi's head...then aiming at his shoulder.

"Think Sara will understand?" Lundgren asked.

"She'd better. Mother didn't sink a few million into research so she wouldn't know..." Todd said.

He aimed. The two others tensed up visibly.

He fired.

As predicted, the Jedi moved to deflect the bolt...and he succeeded...

...just as Sara dove for him and impaled him through the skull from behind with an armed reformed into a blade.

"Tango down. One less Jedi Dog treating the Sith Empire as more important..." Todd growled as Sara dragged the Jedi away.

"Why don't we call them Jedi Kitty's?" Hudson asked.

"Hudson..." Todd trailed. "Please shut the feth up..."

 

[Darth Carnifex]

"Son," remarked the Dark Lord of the Sith, no part of His body changing other than the slow turn of His head towards the newcomer. For the moment, Carnifex pushed the imminent conflict between Light and Dark aside in favor of something far more intimate; the conflict between Father and Son.

Despite this, Carnifex kept His sword angled towards Cedric as a threatening deterrent.

"Kahlil," undoubtedly it was the first time in a long time that the wayward son had heard his name uttered by his father, such simple syllables conjuring up far more memory than Kahlil would have likely allowed if they didn't come so sudden and unbidden. The mere sight of his father, so frighteningly vicious in every aspect, would have given fear the opportunity to seize the young man's heart. That piercing gaze, so intense that it appeared as if nothing existed between the two of them to shield his thoughts, emotions, and desires.

An event horizon in the Force, utterly inescapable.

This feeling was magnified by the pervasive miasma that permeated the very air they breathed, each particle laced with the strength of the Dark Side. The Dark Lord could feel the power of His beloved behind the invigoration, and He allowed the faintest glimmer of gratitude to slip past the steely firewall around His heart. It was a feeling that quickly passed, consumed by the darkness that flooded out from His very soul; but nonetheless, it would be of great significance to Gunnr.

"Drawn like the moth to the flame," spoke the Dark Lord after a brief respite of silence, "The also-ran crawls back to the feet of its Lord." His gaze shifted to Ingrid, "Why barricade him, Lady Ingrid? Has this not been the moment the two of you have conspired to set in motion? Do not presume ignorance, the boy has failed to divulge a great many things to you. The darkness cast by my hand is not so easily scattered."

His eyes then settled on Kahlil once again, "Ignite your weapon."

It was not a request.

"And show me what power you intend to levy against me."

Kahlil Noble | Ingrid L'lerim | Gunnr Zambrano | Cedric Grayson ​

 

[Pietro Demici]

Pietro Demici: Ashlan Cardinal, Commander of the Holy Guard

Location: Near the palace

Engaging: Lilanna Kelamvor , Aedan Miles

Loadout: lightsaber, armorweave priest's vestments

Allies: Cedric Grayson , Isla Draellix-Kobitana , Eina L'lerim-Vandiir , Kahlil Noble , Millia Brimarch, Jedi Master Sir Blair , AC

Enemies: Darth Carnifex , Adenn Kyramud , Elani Zambrano, Hasina Khaa-met, Stardust Solus Skirae , Corin Autem , EE, Kainate

Pietro stopped another blaster bolt as the Imperial forces continued their attack, doing his best to keep their attackers at bay. The Force storm continued overhead, ever-lingering as the fight raged below. Pietro shot a quick look to Eina.

"I'll have a perimeter set up South of rendezvous point Delta. It should be far enough away for you to work undisturbed. Our forces at that location will be at your disposal. Should you encounter Sister Brimarch on your way, tell her that we will be sending forces to assist her efforts. This storm is making our comms go in and out, so we will have to rely on runners until you can find a way to quell this maelstrom."

The flying beast could still be heard overhead as he spoke. Pietro found himself looking in all directions as the chaos continued around them. Suddenly, through the cacophonous pandemonium, Sir Blair and his Star Thistles appeared. He almost wanted to order them back, but he knew that they would be needed here.

"You made the right call, Sir Blair. This storm is preventing us from properly coordinating our forces. I am afraid I need many things from you on this day. We will need to see to the defense of our forces as they pull back to the rendezvous points. It won't be easy, as we'll be considerably outnumbered. Lady Eina will be attempting to put an end to the storm, but we have to hold the line. Once we get our forces regrouped, we will find Lord Grayson. Until then, keep the imperials back. Ashla wills it."

He stepped out from behind cover just in time to push a few advancing Imperials back, sending them crashing against their own lines. He would maintain this position as long as it took. He just hoped that it wouldn't take long. Thankfully, with the added support of the Star Thistles, they had a chance at maintaining a successful withdrawal.

 

[Ingrid L'lerim]

Lady Ingrid L’lerim Ragal Terassi Vandiir
Eternal Empress of the Eternal Empire, Lord Commander of the Wardens of the Shroud, Archon of the Primyn Group
Empress of Terraris, Supreme Commander of the Terraris Command, Head of the House L’lerim, CEO of the HPI Consortium​

Location: Palace
Objective II.: Downfall
Equipment: The Soulsabers (hidden) | Brynja coat | Hersir Imperial Uniform | Viper Mk. I Skinsuit | The Last Gift || Empyrean gland | OPBC-01m || ENS Crimson Empress (in space)
Writing With: Darth Carnifex | Cedric Grayson | Kahlil Noble | Gunnr Zambrano | Closed

[ Defence of Panatha ]
<"High Nelvaanian"> | ~ telepathic communication ~ | << comm. channel >> ​

The fight had not yet begun, for Lord Grayson had not yet responded, but Carnifex's attention was drawn to something quite different. Something, that is, someone; and Ingrid was not happy about this development. She had known Kahlil for a long time, knowing that the man was nowhere near as strong to fight his father, and it might even be that the former emperor was still able to control him. Last but not least, Kahlil dreaded Carnifex, and she knew that.

The woman felt at that moment that there was someone else nearby; not of her own, nor of Grayson's men. She felt like they were trying to trap them. These were the moments when she was really happy that others couldn’t feel almost any feeling from her direction. No, she wouldn't have felt any fear or worry anyway. At least in her own direction.

It remained motionless like a marble statue; the ice sculpture was not correct just because the ice can melt. Ingrid no; that is, only for a few. But it has been harder since the fight against Omni. There was a big price to pay for that situation. She hadn't answered Carnifex yet, but when the former emperor called on Kahlil to fight, the woman really stepped in between the man and his father.

"No!" it was a simple, frosty statement; assertively. "Kahlil is under my protection. If you want to hurt or fight him, you have to kill me first, Lord Carnifex. Do not speak, Kahlil, you're not going to fight today. I will not let you hurt anyone in the Eternal Empire. I respect you, Lord Carnifex, but that does not mean that I will lick your feet, or allow you anything, or bow my head to you, due to your power and renown. I'm not Darth Tacitus…" she said as she looked into Carnifex's eyes all the way with her own cold blue ones.

 

[Eina L'lerim-Vandiir]

Eina L’lerim-Vandiir, the First
Matriarch of the Valkyrja; Leader of Sanctuary; Liaison of the Fjölkyngi Smiðr Guild​

Location: Near to the Palace
Objective II.: Downfall
Equipment: Sverð Fyrstr (weapons) | Skrúð Engill Fyrstr (armour) || Empyrean gland | OPBC-01m
Writing With: Pietro Demici | Corin Autem | Lilanna Kelamvor

[ Flúgva valkyrjur á val ]
<"High Nelvaanian"> | ~ telepathic communication ~ | << comm. channel >> ​

"I travel by teleporting, or by way of going over to the Netherworld and then back on another rift, I’m moving faster than on the ground. Not to mention these, or progress in my immaterial form." she smiled kindly, playfully for a moment as she pointed to her wings.

But she understood what the Cardinal was thinking, so she definitely intended to send a message to the sister about it all. Eina hadn't set off yet, she was still watching the area, so she also heard Lord Demici's words that he wanted to find Lord Grayson. The Valkyrja didn't think it would be such a good idea. Eina knew where the man was; she could have done something to reassure the Cardinal that their leader is fine and unharmed.

"I go in and look around. I find out what's going on with Lord Grayson and what's going on inside. I report to you and then I go to the delta point." she said.

It was not a request for permission or anything like that, but a statement that she would do so. A few moments later she took her natural form, that is, she became invisible and imperceptible, and immaterial. So she could move on without anyone noticing her. Eina flew easily over the soldiers and then carefully moved through the walls of the building. The Valkyrja didn’t want to run into an energy shield because it could damage her in this form too. She arrived at the hall after two minutes. She could feel Gunnr nearby, saw Lord Grayson, Kahlil, Darth Carnifex, and the Empress. It seemed that:

~ Lord Grayson is fine. Carnifex wants to force a young man to fight, but Lady Ingrid won't let him, it seems no one is watching Lord Grayson right now. ~ she messaged telepathically to Pietro.

~ Lord Grayson, It's me, Eina, I'm here a few meters behind you, I came in because of Lord Demici, to see if you're unharmed. Do you have any orders as to what your armies should do outside? I will try to end the storm soon. ~ Cedric Grayson could hear Eina's voice in his mind, which was still completely the same like Ingrid's voice, only it wasn't so cold and emotionless.

 

[Kahlil Noble]

He had stopped breathing at some point.

Kahlil stared up at his father, eyes wide and full of dread. The young man was older now. Taller than most, but the Zambrano had always been a line of giants. Darth Carnifex still towered over him, flooding his mind with memories of his childhood. Memories he'd rather forget. But the Dark was a drug that brought out fear and anger. As much as Kahlil willed himself to be rid of it, it's presence from something so familiar easily leached into his heart. He'd come here as a Jedi to help his friend, but all he could do was quiver in fear as a small child before their father.

Every part of his body refused to meet the Once Emperor's gaze, and yet he did anyway. In a way, he was still that child hanging off every word of his father. Wanting his approval, his attention. Now he'd gotten it. The world around him faded. Ingrid L'lerim , Cedric Grayson , they blurred into the walls as his vision swam.

It wasn't until the Empress stepped between him that his mind pulled back from this fear. Again Ingrid was stepping in to protect him. He let out his held breath and forced himself to smile. He'd been hiding away for years now, but never once had it put his friends in danger. Without a word he stepped up beside her, gently setting a hand on her shoulder.

"The Empress dies protecting one of the rebels from her once ally? The Eternals would be thrown into complete chaos if that happened." Even as he spoke, his voice was laced with the same terror. And yet, his hand didn't tremble as he squeezed her shoulder. "Evacuate the palace. I'll be fine." They both knew that was a lie, but he wasn't going to let a friend face down his past for him. Even as he spoke, his gaze never left his father.

The young man pulled free his lightsaber, igniting the blue blade as he leveled the weapon in both hands. Feel, don't think. It wasn't just Ingrid that was in danger. He breathed in slowly through his nose, calming his thoughts. His pounding heart. Then exhaled through his mouth. The fear faded. Not gone, but replaced by something more important.

The Jedi stepped between the Empress and the Sith. "I'll try not to disappoint."

 

[Joycelyn Zambrano]

Canthar, Panatha.
Shrine of Darth Vornskr II

"Bring me their heads!"

The congregation at the Shrine of Darth Vornskr the Second threw themselves into the fray. While some joined the fight, others rallied those who were still on the fence and dispensed arms to those who had little to fight with. On Panatha, there were more than enough weapons to go around if one shared.

Joycelyn herself, however, looked up through the hole in the ceiling of the shrine dedicated to her.

A grimace spread over her face as she relaxed her muscles and crouched to prepare for a great, concerted effort. With a mighty leap, she threw herself up into the air. Then, at the pinnacle of her jump, a jet of flame shot her even higher. The giant sailed through the hole in the roof and landed on top of the structure to gaze upon the emerging battle of her world.

She was aglow with hatred, making the yellow irises of her eyes burn like rings of hot iron.

"There is more than one Zambrano on this world that still draws breath."

Every step she took left a mark of searing heat, causing smoke of burned impurities to rise from the tiled roof. Zaudraka writhed in her hand. Although rigid, the sithsword felt like a hungry serpent in her hand, and its edge glowed like a plasma filament. Joycelyn seized one of the metal spires that decorated the structure's pinnacle to support herself, and she could see it changing colour as the heat of her hatred seeped into the metal.

"Come!" "Come face Darth Vornskr!"

A deep breath gathered the Force in her lungs and throat. Then, a roar; wild and inhuman. However, instead of pure sound, what came out of her mouth was a whirling torrent of scarlet fire that twisted and turned in on itself like a whirling storm. It reached high into the sky, mixing with the other expressions of flame and thunder.

Jedi Master Sir Blair Stardust Solus Skirae Aedan Miles Darth Carnifex Ingrid L'lerim Kahlil Noble

 

[Jedi Master Sir Blair]

Sir Blair
Occupation: Jedi Master, Head of the Order of Star Thistle
Location: Near the palace
Objective: Shut down this heretical nonsense, find and rid these lands of the Zambranos
Weaponry: Orange Lightsaber (Faithkeeper), Green Lightsaber (Last Rite)
Tags: Pietro Demici , Eina L'lerim-Vandiir , Joycelyn Zambrano

"Aye, that I can do Cardinal Demici." Truth be told, his men could do that well enough without him. Most were armed with blasters, and would be perfect for holding the line. This was all well and perfect really, because he felt something calling to him. A Dark Foe. His eyes wandered to their direction, and he saw fire paint the sky. "Aibne. You are under the Cardinal's command now, and as are all my soldiers. Make them hear his every words as if it were my own. Sorry Sir Demici, but if I let those flames run free, I fear we will lose many." He spoke all fairly quickly, and yet concisely as well, with a finger pointed to the fires lighting the sky.

That said and done, Sir Blair was already dashing off towards the fire, with a force leap to the rooftops he was gone from view.

​

Aibne, Star Thistle's Unofficial 2nd in Command​

Shock was on the Zabrak's face for only seconds before he looked to Demici with respect, the soldiers now under him immediately began holding the line. "I am at your beckoning Cardinal. My apologies for Sir Blair's haste. You get used to it, and either way he typically comes out on top, in my own experience. So all in all we tend to just bear with him, he has gotten us this far." With the words of assurance, and the pledge to allegiance, he pulled out his own blaster and helped hold the line as best he knew. Shoot to kill or to maim.

Back to Sir Blair, Solo Style
Updated Loctation: Shrine of Darth Vornskr II​

Dashing among the rooftops was a bruised and battered man, and yet no weakness in that damage. They were signs of strength, those with a clean physique were not envied by Blair, especially in this line of life. A leap, and soon another, and then he was nearing the Dark Side presence he so clearly felt now. One more leap to some sort of grandeur structure, a shrine perhaps, and he was upon the enemy. A lass, but those enshrined in the dark were never as simple as lads or lasses.

"Darth Vornskr? A daunting name, but I, Sir Blair, shall be the one to face you. Hopefully your search was short, rest assured you've found a worthy opponent." Though he arrived to late to hear the original calls, he heard the echo within the force. What was. Out from his kilt cloaks came a 'saber, pulled to his right hand by the force. Faithkeeper, in all the glory both name and style held. It's deeds under Sir Blair's usage really made it shine though. That fiery orange, here to contest the dark, and also to quell the flames.

'Faithkeeper'​

​

 

[Hei Sogecki]

​

Hei Sogecki mounted on Loki flying high over the jungle and city

tags: Eleena Salwa

Far down below Hei watched firefights begin across the city. So negotiations appear to have failed. Not everyone appeared to be firing but it was enough. He had lost sight of the swoop squadron, that was a dangerous situation, they could out fly and out gun him. Logically their best angle would be right behind him, he turned his head, he couldn't see much in the visible spectrum because of the cloud cover but he could just about make out a pair of heat signatures tailing him.

He heard a buzz in his comm that his pair of Huntsman vessels were fast approaching. He turned Loki head on to them. He the swoops hadn't attacked yet, and he had no idea whether they would. But turning their tail pursuit into a joust with two armed vessels could at least provide him with some protection. He could clearly see the two heat signatures of his craft in the distance, flying on AI. No chance to collect any interesting Fauna today unfortunately he sighed as he tapped his empty Friend holder longingly.

 

[Joycelyn Zambrano]

Canthar, Panatha.
Shrine of Darth Vornskr II
Jedi Master Sir Blair

Her scarlet fire swirled high in the sky, casting its red light down upon the city below. To those who followed her, it was a mark of impending triumph over the heathen invaders. To Joycelyn, it was a beacon to draw forth those who would dare to stand against her and her family's claim to the soul of Panatha. Now, it appeared her challenge had been answered.

She reared her head forward with her most draconian smile to look at the approaching Jedi, while fire still lingered at the corners of her mouth. He leapt in her direction and declared himself her foe.

If only they all presented themselves so readily.

"Well, Sir Blair"

She pointed Zaudraka at the Jedi Master. The blackened blade oozed with the dark side of the Force, reaching out with a presence of its own; a presence whose singular objective was to crush and rend and destroy the Jedi. It was so eager to rend flesh that the lightly curved blade almost seemed to straighten in an attempt at reaching Sir Blair.

While Joycelyn no longer vomited forth the stream of scarlet fire, it swirled in the skies as it had before. It glowed like a wound in the darkened skies, casting their surroundings in the hue of blood, cut only by the flashes of lightning and the persistent shine of Faithkeeper.

"Let us see if you make a worthy sacrifice to Vahl."

 

[Pietro Demici]

Pietro Demici: Ashlan Cardinal, Commander of the Holy Guard

Location: Near the palace

Engaging: Lilanna Kelamvor , Aedan Miles

Loadout: lightsaber, armorweave priest's vestments

Allies: Cedric Grayson , Isla Draellix-Kobitana , Eina L'lerim-Vandiir , Kahlil Noble , Millia Brimarch, Jedi Master Sir Blair , AC

Enemies: Darth Carnifex , Adenn Kyramud , Elani Zambrano, Hasina Khaa-met, Stardust Solus Skirae , Corin Autem , EE, Kainate

The initiative that Sir Blair showed upon the field of battle was something that Pietro would take note of. It is easy to wage war, but difficult to do it well, and Sir Blair's efforts showed that he certainly did the latter. Pietro provided him with a quick blessing and nod as he introduced his Aibne.

"Go with Ashla, Sir Blair, and fear no darkness. We will await your return."

Pietro eyed the enemies lines once again, fighting the urge once again to push forward. Every ounce of him wanted to call off the withdrawal; to push into the city and run these imperials into the ground. He would catch himself, remembering his promise to Eina as he continued to protect the retreating forces. Gritting his teeth and swallowing his pride, Pietro called out to Aibne.

"You and yours are to hold here. I'm moving the Holy Guard to our right flank so that our forces there may withdraw faster. The sooner we can get them to Rendezous point Delta, the sooner this storm can be dealt with. Once we have gotten enough of them out, we will return to you. Until then, Ashla Light your path, brother."

He gave the man little time to respond, immediately signaling for the Holy Guard to shift their attention toward their flank. Pietro himself moved quickly along the line, continuing to deflect what bolts he could as he pressed along the Ashlan line. His Holy Guard continued to lay down their own covering fire, taking care to prioritize their concentration of fire to the biggest threats. All the while, the skies above continued to rage with the sounds of artillery fire as the Ashlan tanks attempted to bring the flying beast down.

 

[Aedan Miles]

​

Allies: Adenn Kyramud Lilanna Kelamvor
Enemies: Jedi Master Sir Blair Pietro Demici
Loadout: Scythe of Bikadinir'Chaabar, The Ring of Deimos-Chaabar, Aedan's Beskargam, Aedan's Saddle and Barding
Forces: 1x Winter Wolves, 4x Red Fang, and Deimos

Aedan let a bored smirk cross his face as Deimos suddenly dove straight down its armor singed from hits that the tanks hand landed on it. Landing with an almost thunderous crash the large Dragon let out a loud roar breathing flames in front of it even as Aedan leapt from its back. He smirks as he pulls his scythe from his back starting to stalk forward eyes gleaming almost savagely. He spins the scythe around before he slams the butt of it into the ground breathing in as he allows the force to flood his body eyes opening as he gestures with one hand. "Come than lets begin the fun shall we?" He darts towards the Ashlan forces lines eyes gleaming as he is propelled forward the force boosting his speed above standard levels. As he moves forward a roar could be heard behind him as with a pair of flaps of its wings Deimos takes to the skies soaring straight up as the rest of Aedan's forces charge forward. The Red Fang leading the charge weapons firing around the Pirate King even as the Winter Wolves hang back slightly firing at Mid Range to provide cover for their charging comrades. Aedan finally spins pulling his scythe around his form in a wide arc in front of him aiming to disrupt the lines that the Ashlan forces held even as part of the Red Fang swapped their ranged weaponary for their Beskad's hefting the large Beskar forged melee weapons up.

Aedan spun himself around crouching as the Cragmaloids of the Red Fang charged into the enemy line lifting a hand to his helmet as he pulled up real time tactical data looking it over before he contacted the nearest support he could get. "This is Miles to Kyramud I need some heavy support over here Ashlan's have tanks and artillery I am lacking both think you can send me some support?" Adenn Kyramud As he waited for reply he spun his scythe sweeping outward striking at the enemy releasing one of the Hurlothrombic Gas capsules around his enemy his own helmet filtering out the gas as he smirked pouring more of his force power into the ring on his hand sending a surge of fear around him driving the Cragmaloids into a frenzied rage as they fought to escape the fear that surrounded him.

 

[Eina L'lerim-Vandiir]

Eina L’lerim-Vandiir, the First
Matriarch of the Valkyrja; Leader of Sanctuary; Liaison of the Fjölkyngi Smiðr Guild​

Location: Near to the Palace
Objective II.: Downfall
Equipment: Sverð Fyrstr (weapons) | Skrúð Engill Fyrstr (armour) || Empyrean gland | OPBC-01m
Writing With: Pietro Demici | Corin Autem | Lilanna Kelamvor

[ Flúgva valkyrjur á val ]
<"High Nelvaanian"> | ~ telepathic communication ~ | << comm. channel >> ​

Inside, everything seemed infinitely slow, time passed slowly; however, the Valkyrja saw that Lord Grayson was safe, so it didn’t make much sense to stay, it was time to end the Force Storm. That is, she is trying to do this. This was the most important thing right now.

~ I'm going, Lord Grayson. If you need me, let me know. ~ she "said".

With that, she didn’t even stay in that place anymore. Eiaa backed away and "walked" out. She chose the same route she last used, as there certainly wasn’t a single energy shield there. She got out on this road in a minute or two and first approached Pietro to inform the Cardinal in words. When she found him, the woman was visible again.

"Inside, the situation is still the same. Carnifex's attention is drawn to his son. My mother is trying to prevent disaster, no one is dealing with Lord Grayson. Now I go and start the ritual for the storm to end." she said.

After that, Eina became invisible again and teleported after a short concentration. When she arrived at the place where Pietro had originally sent her, she was visible again and also sent a message to the nurse with the Cardinal's order. She went into the place prepared for her, took a comfortable position for meditation and began to concentrate, the Valkyrja's ritual began.

 

[Aximand Sicarus]

TAG: Isla Draellix-Kobitana Ingrid L'lerim

Spoiler: Fleet Composition

• (1) Callides-class Heavy Carrier - Flagship, Assault (4km)
  • ENS Retribution

• (1) Eternal-class Star Destroyer - Heavy Assault (8km)
  • ENS Vikarion

• (6) Demeton-class Heavy Cruiser - Assault, Balanced (6km
  • ENS Revenant
  • ENS Huntress
  • ENS Braccus
  • ENS Rupture
  • ENS Oberon
  • ENS Balisov

• (6) Ashkelon-class Escort Frigate - Defense (2.4km)
  • ENS Crucible
  • ENS Nebulon
  • ENS Magnate
  • ENS Palisade
  • ENS Shield of Salvation
  • ENS Deliverance

• (6) Retribution-class Heavy Missile Corvette - Offensive (1.2km)
  • ENS Manticore
  • ENS Vulture
  • ENS Malice
  • ENS Fangorn
  • ENS Rogal
  • ENS Lorde

OBJECTIVE: The Blockade
LOCATION: Panatha Approach
EQUIPMENT: (1) Callides-class Heavy Carrier, Commodore’s Uniform, Sidearm & Sword, Elements of the Reclamation fleet - 20th Heavy Assault Line

With all of the events transpiring above and upon the planet of Panatha - namely the unrest and botched insertion of Ashlan Forces, many among the populace would be pleased to know (although it would be doubtful that they would be aware) that a force from the Eternal Fleet was beginning to warp in. Commodore Aximand Sicarus’ flagship, the Retribution, exited light speed first, followed by the remainder of his fleet, which comprised the majority of the 20th Heavy Assault Line. If he had his way, he would have brought the entirety of his flotilla, but he had strict orders from the Empress herself to maintain a posture of deterrence, not aggression. That did not prevent the fleet officer from his heavy annoyance over this whole affair. He received a short briefing of the situation while his fleet was mobilizing, and every fiber of his being wanted to jump in guns blazing. In what world did the Ashlan Crusade believe they had the right to infringe on the Empire’s sovereignty? Political relations aside, this was an act of war in his mind, and should be met with overwhelming force in turn.

But, restraint was part of the burden of command. He would not dare to defy the will of the Empress, despite his righteous indignation. He stood on the command deck holding a cup of caf, its contents steaming up to his nostrils. Normally, such a pleasant odor would serve as a calming indulgence for him as he presided over the mundane routines associated with lightspeed travel. But it did little to calm his rancor - in fact, his grip was quite tight upon its handle. Commander Praxxis cautiously approached the Commodore, his hands clasped behind his back as he reported: ”Sir, the fleet awaits your orders.”

”Form in a ‘V’ formation, intermingling the picket ships & cruisers so as to ensure proper coverage and staying power throughout the line. Do not open fire on any targets without my explicit authorization.” Aximand quickly barked back. Taking a rather angry sip of his caf after doing so. He turned on his heels and marched to his command chair, then slid his caf into a cup holder before continuing: ”Signal our arrival to the Empress immediately, and hail the flagship of the Ashlan Fleet. I will have words with its commander.”

The commander nodded in assent with his orders, and within moments a comm channel was open and fed through Aximand’s console. The Commodore’s craggy, imposing features were on display within the high-definition monitor to the Ashlan Flagship. ”This is Commodore Aximand Sicarus, commander of the 20th Heavy Assault Line of the Imperial Reclamation Fleet. We are here to enforce the Empress’s Peace in this system. We have our orders to... avoid instigating any aggression with you and your fleet, and to standby upon the Empress’s orders. But I shall warn you, here and now - no further infringements to the Eternal Empire’s sovereignty will be tolerated.”

Aximand let his words hang in the air. He left the frequency open for a response, but did not much care for whatever excuses may be proffered. Believe it or not, this was his diplomatic side.

 

[Adenn Kyramud]

Objective: Protect the Palace and the City
Allies: Ingrid L'lerim | Ghost "Frankie" Sterling | Stardust Solus Skirae | Eleena Salwa | Aditya Fitz Kierke | Ladybug | Mig Gred | Aedan Miles
Enemies: Cedric Grayson | Isla Draellix-Kobitana | Pietro Demici | Hei Sogecki | Jedi Master Sir Blair
Links: Hell’s Angel | Heavy Walker | Beskad Elite | Beskad Warriors | AT-AD | ProtecTrak | Titan Tank | Hellwalker | Gerak Kierke​

Holding onto Aditya, and being held so tightly in turn, Adenn stares into her eyes. He leans into her hand, taking comfort in her, acknowledging once more just how lucky he is to have her. They speak and Adenn shares her thoughts as she shares his, and it makes him fall in love with her all over again. Carnifex will pay and his aliit, his c'yare will be with him, but now is not the time for that. Now is the time for family. They kiss and Adenn's arms wrap around her, holding her tight and reminding him why he fights.

Then they separate and become warriors once more. Sliding their helmets on once more, Adenn leans forward and bumps their heads together, giving her a final keldabe kiss. Then he leans back, turns and orders the engagement of the Ashlan forces. Beside them Star has begun her fire, blazing into the familiar flame she is. Their armor could take it, however with the rate Star always went, not for long. Thus, Adenn stepped away from her, giving her the space she requested, smiling somewhat beneath his helmet as he did so. The lightshow she started was impressive and Adenn watched the flaming projectiles fly home, even as hell was unleashed. They would teach the Ashlans about war this day, true war.

His speech had been broadcast, while the private moments remained such. Now war raged across the city, and prior actions received the consequences. Most forces of the Ashlans had landed outside the city and had been engaged as such. But a few brave fools had landed within, only landing because there had been a tiny hope for them peacefully leaving. With that hope dashed under a hail of blaster fire, those within and without the city were engaged at once. Forces advanced upon those within the city, while those along its edges simply kept their own fire up.

Fury and rage came from the defenders lines, concentrated and massed shots flew true towards enemy positions and vehicles, troops and support. Kill zones had long since been established, fire lanes directed, and grid coordinates laid in. All that happened was the push of the button, the pull of the trigger, and the cold fury of the defenders. At least those of Clan Mortui stock, they knew emotions simply interfered in battle, especially sieges. Not only this, but they were seasoned veterans one and all, veterans of dozens of sieges. They knew what massed fire against a defended position was like, especially under shields, and this was not massed fire. It was simple covering fire to dissuade pursuit or continued fire.

It did nothing more than annoy them. They knew it wasn't massed fire, the officers knew it was a fraction of the firepower available. It was doubly clear to their al'verde, who saw more of the battlefield. And. They. Did. Not. Care. They simply continued firing upon their forces, even as that return fire struck. Mortar fire splashed against the protektraks shields, while many null-projector shots simply diffused against them as well. Of the shots that made it through, the mortar fire was all but useless. The trenches prevented damage to the warriors in them, while the armor they bore protected them. Few ducked low, those that did were without armor, such as some Panathans. The Null Projectors did more damage however, if they got the chance to hit.

Wielding shields to take the brunt of enemy fire, most shots that struck Beskad Warriors did so against their shields. The unlucky ones who were struck were rendered immobile, but this also meant their weapons continued firing even as they stood motionless. And all throughout, they continued firing, even as other shots flew towards their vehicles. Those that made it through the shields did more damage than against the troops. A majority were dug in well enough to prevent the worst fire towards them, coupled with the shields meant only a handful of shots even came close to hitting. But not everything is perfect, and some vehicles were indeed disabled, entirely or partially. Whether tanks or walkers, certain guns did fall silent, certain walkers stopped moving. But they still remained there, silent sentinels to the deeds of their vode.

And all across their lines, they continued firing, continued fighting.​

Within the city itself, both the hospital and the rest, other forces had mobilized. There was more shifting of forces around the hospital, even as the Ashlans slowly left, turning their backs on the defenders. More than one had an itchy trigger finger, but they held themselves back. They would not be the ones to jeopardize this tenuous peace, but they would enforce it. Thus they watched and waited, eyes glaring even as a final comm call went towards them.

At the message delivered, that of added defenses to them, the command center went into uproar, before falling silent just as quickly. Curses were levied, before they shut themselves down. The hospital already had defenses, AA guns and missiled, they already had shields, both from protektraks and the Force barrier erected by Girak Kierke and his fellow priests. Thus, the mercy pods never reached the ground. Either slamming into the barriers and exploding, or being shot out of the sky in a hail of blaster fire and missiles. Cries of outrage rose from the forces around the hospital, but they dared not attack, no matter how much their instincts and passions told them to. They held to their word, but eyes still bore into the backs of Ashlan forces as they left.

Across the city, similar stories played out. Wherever pods landed, quick response forces set upon them, destroying or disabling them with all due haste. Others still slammed against shields and simply broke apart, or were shot out of the sky. There were those that made it to the ground though, that exploded into life. And they were destroyed with even more vigor as a result. A handful were taken to study, but the majority were set upon by citizen and warrior, destroyed with all due haste. They neither trusted, nor wanted the 'help' of the Ashlans. And they showed it with every shield that winked out, or never activated in time.

And then came more forces, rushing towards the site of the AC within the city. They hadn't prevented their landing, but they would force their retreat. Tanks manuevered, walkers shifted, and warriors marched. Blaster fire went out towards the Ashlans, missiles were fired and reinforcements sent. The reinforcements Aedan requested appeared nigh instantly, moving closer and firing as they went, advancing in turtle formation with moving shields. Alongside them came AT-ADs, firing above their mortal kin, uncaring of any fire directed towards them. And accompanying all that fire was the march of boots, the stomping of machinery, and the sounds of battle.

In the distance, Hell's Angel shifted once more. Initially aimed towards the landing craft, its war pilot realized something. Removing their only way off planet would mean the crusaders stayed, it meant they would fight back even harder just to survive. That annoyance would not be brooked, instead they would be blasted off the planet, even as they fled. Thus, Hell's Angel aimed towards the Ashlan forces within the city, towards the largest grouping of vehicles. With a dull roar, the titan fired, a large laser shooting towards them. Whatever the location was, the laser would cause an explosion as it cored through vehicle and ground alike. After five seconds of continuous fire, the laser would end and Hell's Angel would continue watching.

This was war and they would show that to the areutii Ashlans.​

 

[Isla Draellix-Kobitana]

​

Islas Draellix Commanding the Grand Fleet of Ashla and also writing ground invasion.

Fleet Action

Spoiler: Fleet Composition

• Flagship Ironheart Dragoon class battlecarrer
• 6 X Dominion class escort frigate
• 8 X Seraphim class patrol frigate
• 8 X Principality class corvette
• Carriers filled with a mixture of Pegasus Interceptors and Phoenix Multirole starfighters
• Ships have full complements of Ashlan Marines

Tags: Stirric Vetch
Laertia Io
Taozi Fuyuan
Mig Gred
Aximand Sicarus

"Admiral," the captain approached the frustrated admiral carefully. She had watched the pods launched as defensive gestures be picked off one by one. She had hardly expected the defenders to trust her actions so it was not that that frustrated her, it just underpinned her thinking of what a fruitless endeavour this whole expedition had been, she has come here under orders like everyone else but the justification to risk so much was looking thinner and thinner. The fact that there was no good news coming from the ground to balance it out, even one captured Zambrano would be something, not enough, but something. She snapped put of her inner contemplation. "Yes captain," she replied.

"Another fleet has dropped out of hyperspace and is taking up a defensive formation against us, it is led by one Aximand Sicarus of the Eternal Empire, he has hailed you."

"Thank you captain," she said as she took a moment to read the background of this new commodore. Why couldn't it be Sith? It was always so much easier when you could just open fire blast each other in space. She internally scolded herself for that thinking, as much as she hated this kind of diplomacy, it would never be better to have Sith out there shooting her crews.

She stepped in front of her holo recorder and spoke "Commodore Aximund, welcome to Panatha," she found it hard to hide the exasperation in her voice "I am Grand Admiral Isla Draellix of the Ashlan Crusade. We are here to bring justice to the Zambrano family. We have no intention of engaging with the Eternal Empire and I intend to respect the peace between our two leaders. I would like to inform you that my forces are in the process of withdrawing from the planet"

There were clear movements on the ground as her forces returned toward their landers, it would be impossible for him not to detect that, she did not wish any further misunderstandings to make the situation worse. The mandolorians on the ground were extremely warlike and ready for a fight the moment the Crusade arrived, conflict with them was almost inevitable, but she wished to keep the alliance, with the Eternal Empire, despite how frayed things might be right now.

Ground Acton

Spoiler: Landing force composition

[/COLOR]

• 2 X Dominion class escort frigate
• 3 X Bastion planetary invasion ship
• Carriers filled with a mixture of Pegasus interceptors and Phoenix Multirole Starfighters
• Ships have full complements of Ashlan marines
• Ground invasion troops comprise of 3 legions of Sisters of Ashla
• Each lander contains hundreds of Ashlan Medium Tanks with a variety of loadouts including a large amount of IFV transport variants
• Each lander carriers dozens of Ashlan Heavy Tanks with a variety of loadouts

Tags:
Corin Autem
Eleena Salwa
Adenn Kyramud
Stardust Solus Skirae
Pietro Demici
Aditya Fitz Kierke
Aedan Miles

In the General's lander

The general cursed and kicked out at the holo of his own spit, its light scattering briefly before reforming. He wanted nothing more than to blast those mandolorians to pieces, he had turbolasers that could slag those walkers in seconds and enough firepower to level the whole city on the three ships, maybe once he got out of here he would run that as a simulation just to blow off steam to see how it would play out.

"Tell the admiral that we are beginning to load our troops back on to the landers, the first elements are on the ramps."

...on the ground...

The retreat was going well for the most part, casualties were unfortunately high from the defenders firepower, but could have been much worse. The hospital forces, not needing to fight as they withdrew were well on their way back to their lander.

One of the retreats though was almost becoming a rout, the worst of the defenders firepower had struck here and casualties had been extremely high, there was little cover or defensive measures, Infantry were running alongside over filled IFVs and repulsor tanks lay abandoned on the field, burning with intense heat from the scuttling charges. A sergeant from one of the annointed sisters looked at her shattered squad, holed up in what appeared to be a grain silo.

"Ladies, this is the fight of our short lives, but I want as many of you out alive as possible," she did a head count, 6 members from her squad and 5 from another squad were here, their own sergeant lost in the initial barrage.

"This is our best route out, there is a long drainage ditch that leads most of the way out to our ships, it is mostly dry but the storm is beginning to had an effect so we need to take care. How is your kit?"

They all checked in, most were in good shape, but two of them had lost power to their personal shields.

Minutes later they began to move out, sliding down the gulley into the drainage channel, there was streams of water beginning to fill the bottom of the muddy channel, but they were dangerous from gunfire here, as blaster bolts whizzed over their heads.

Spoiler: summary

Hospital - most troops withdrawn, making quick progress back to landers

Across most lines - massive incoming fire, heavy casualties, withdrawing with fire designed to hold not destroy. Making good progress but centre of line has suffered catastrophic casualties and is retreating in disorder.

Spaceport - most troops withdrawing from spaceport

All over city - mercy pods dropping on civilian targets of interest and deploying shields

 

[Darth Carnifex]

"Then die, Empress L'lerim, it will not change what is to come." It was evident that the Dark Lord of the Sith would have struck the Eternal Empress down had she continued to stand between Him and His errant child, and He would have been entirely capable of doing so, but the life of the Empress was spared because of His son's intervention. It was bold of him, although perhaps not entirely within the scope of self-preservation; but the heroism of fools always sprung from that same place.

The desire to protect the lives of others.

Pathetic.

"You should have let her die for you, Kahlil." The Jedi's lightsaber snapped into action, the cerulean glow of his blade contrasting sharply against the red illumination of Carnifex's runeblade. The Dark Lord rested His sword over the bent crook of His arm, shifting its point from the now sidelined Cedric to Kahlil. "Perhaps then you would have abandoned this folly of resistance, my son. But when you have abandoned reason for madness, there can be only one solution."

Metal sprung up to surround the Dark Lord's face, connecting together until it formed the facsimile of a skull over His nose and brow. The marble floor buckled beneath the Dark Lord's feet as He propelled Himself forward, the momentum causing visible distortions in the air around His charging body.

"You must be made to kneel."

Kahlil Noble | Ingrid L'lerim | Gunnr Zambrano | Cedric Grayson ​

 

[Aximand Sicarus]

TAG: Isla Draellix-Kobitana Ingrid L'lerim

"Very good Admiral." Aximand responded with a slight air of appreciation. He turned and met the eyes of his tactical officer as he said the last bit: "We shall be monitoring your retreat with our sensors, so as to ensure no citizens of Panatha are 'accidentally' caught up in your haste to flee. We would hate for any misunderstandings to occur that might result in our intervention." With a nod, the communications officer closed the channel, and the Commodore turned to address Lt. Commander Aierka: "I want every scanner actively sweeping all Ashlan transports to and from the planet. All ships shall be placed on yellow alert, ready to move to red alert at a moments' notice." The Lt. Commander saluted at the Commodore's orders, and made haste to relay them to the rest of the fleet. In the meanwhile, Aximand reached for his cup of caf within his cup holder and took a small sip. It was still a little too hot, and a sharp sensation pulsed through his tongue despite his constant consumption of said beverage.

He set it back down with mild annoyance, licking his lips as he steepled his hands pensively. The fleet was nearly in position for its task of monitoring the situation both on the planet and amongst the Ashlan fleet. He glanced at the reports flashing on his screen, and reached down to tap on each one in turn. The ship's communication feed synchronized with local news networks on the planet, streaming live feeds from the fighting taking place on the planet. It... looked like a warzone down there as the Ashlan ground forces tried to retreat for their lives to the landing craft. But what could he do? He had his orders, and from what he could tell, the Admiral appeared to be speaking honestly about their mobilization off world. He couldn't fault the populace from taking up arms to fight against the invaders, especially with news flitting about regarding atrocities taking place during their 'peaceful' expedition to bring the Zambranos to justice. This whole situation puzzled him - what did they expect would happen - that the Eternal Empire would stand idly by while a foreign nation infringed upon the sovereignty of one of the Empire's vassals (and by extension, its own sovereignty)? That the Empire would preside willingly over what amounted to a modern day witch hunt? If he were ordered to do the same thing, Aximand knew he would at least have done a much better job of it. It wasn't like he had a history of stamping out rebellions, or anything...

"Open a channel with the Empress's flagship, and inform them that we are nearly in position, awaiting further orders."

​

 

[Ingrid L'lerim]

Lady Ingrid L’lerim Ragal Terassi Vandiir
Eternal Empress of the Eternal Empire, Lord Commander of the Wardens of the Shroud, Archon of the Primyn Group
Empress of Terraris, Supreme Commander of the Terraris Command, Head of the House L’lerim, CEO of the HPI Consortium​

Location: Palace
Objective II.: Downfall
Equipment: The Soulsabers (hidden) | Brynja coat | Hersir Imperial Uniform | Viper Mk. I Skinsuit | The Last Gift || Empyrean gland | OPBC-01m || ENS Crimson Empress (in space)
Writing With: Darth Carnifex | Cedric Grayson | Kahlil Noble | Gunnr Zambrano | Closed

[ Defence of Panatha ]
<"High Nelvaanian"> | ~ telepathic communication ~ | << comm. channel >> ​

Ingrid stood completely motionless and without emotion as Carnifex threatened her. Another arrogant Sith who thinks no one can defeat him. On the other hand, the Empress may also have seemed egoist by believing that she might be able to stop the former emperor. She had just wanted to raise her hand to stop the Sith Lord's sword when Kahlil stepped in between the two of them. She didn’t like to be humiliated, and this was that in her eyes; he questioned her fighting skills while she too came from a warrior culture. True, this insult was not felt by the two men, the woman hid it perfectly.

"And then what will they think if it turns out I let a civilian have a weapon with them while the law forbids it?" she said in a cold voice. "However, I am not as easy to kill as Lord Carnifex thinks."

The woman stepped back in the direction of Lord Grayson, shook her head, and continued to position herself this time to protect the Crusader. None of the Zambrano understood; they were both selfish, as if they were in the middle of the world. One may have been a Jedi, the other a Sith, but they could not deny that there was a father-son relationship between them. Even then, she won’t let them duel here.

"If you want to fight in the territory of the Eternal Empire, you must kill me first. The people here are under my protection. That's what I swore to protect everyone. It is my duty and I will act accordingly. If they want to kill each other, Lord Zambrano and Lord Zambrano, do so outside the borders of the Eternal Empire! And I do not tolerate humiliation in the area under my protection!" she said still coldly, without emotion, addressing the last sentence to Kahlil; she was neither angry nor angry, she was only empty, but this was expected of her, so she acted and spoke accordingly.

With that, she reached out to the Force and with telekinetics she tried to stop the two men and push them against the wall of the room, on the two opposite sides. She hasn’t shown too much strength yet, just enough that Kahlil cannot fend off against it. If that’s not enough against Carnifex, she tries to move Kahlil behind her, next to Cedric, to be safe there.

"Again, everyone in the Eternal Empire is under my protection, I would sacrifice my life even for the last civilian."

 

[Ghost "Frankie" Sterling]

tags Heinrich Faust and Calruss Shiman
equipment: d16 slug thower, broken, HARM mass production armor, vibroknife. trophy necklace

Ghost was tired of waiting around for the enemy to reach his position so he grabbed the nearest Ultranaught next to him as the city started being baseiged and asked. Whats the most unsecured area of the city. to his surprise there was a network of tunnels under the city that due to the forces being spread thin only sith spawn and "zombies" were down there guarding it. Letting out a audibe sigh Ghost would make his way to the nearest manhole that lead down there.

as time went by he had come across a group of ashen by a blocked tunnel as they seemed to be trying to get the debre moved. "Looky here we got ourselves some boyscouts." He said hinting at how his constant dying and coming back was doing a number on his mental state. the ahsens began shooting at him like they had with the fallen sithspawn strewn amongst the ground. the shots taering apart his armor and causing minor wounds to his augmented bodies dermal armor. he i turn raised his d16 slugthrower and with a long 20 round burst on fire the opposition was strewn over the walls and floor pulling out his knife he began to take something from each of them. before using the same destructive capabiltys of his gun to clear the debree and walk into the tunnels un impeded . wearing his trophies over his armor scraps.

after some time Ghost would come across Heinrich Faust and Calruss Shiman 's duel as the fought obviously having made his way there by the later end of their fight. "sorry I'm late to the little party you all have here I stumbled across a blocked off entrence and had to get threw it and the light guard with it." holding up a necklace made with the ears of the guard he managed to kill he was sure it wasn't all of them as he might have stumbled across one of many groups. "Can you hear me?"

Spoiler