Darkness Spreads | CA dominion of Noris [Hex R-13]

[Matt the Radar Tech]

Darkness Spreads​

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Objective 1​

THE KILLIK COLONIES​

For generations, unbeknownst to the Chiss, colonies of Killik have been growing​

beneath the surface of the planet Noris. Once they were slaves used​

by a - since destroyed - ruling house, however the Killik are growing and​

spreading and preparing. The Chiss cannot let this threat remain.​

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Objective 2​

THE NEST SHIPS IN ORBIT​

In orbit around Noris, a dozen extremely large nest ships created by the Killiks surround their​

claimed world, housing numerous weapon and defense systems harvested from the​

defunct Chiss ruling house, and true to Killik expansion, they have loaded three smaller​

nest ships with fully prepared and incubated nests. The Chiss cannot allow the Killik​

to spread, and must stop them before dozens turn to thousands and thousands to millions.​

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Objective 3​

THE FATE OF A LOST HOUSE​

The Chiss accept the fall of Houses, it is part of the society, but the fate of House Noris remains​

a mystery, one that hints at a deeper conspiracy that involves the current ruling houses that​

aligned with the Jen'ari Empire. Perhaps the old estate of House Noris holds some clues as​

to what - or who - was responsible for their destruction, and with the Chiss arriving on planet​

to deal with the Killiks, it would be a waste to not search for answers at the same time.​

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Objective X​

BRING YOUR OWN OBJECTIVE​

Complete your own objective.​

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Noris.

For several generations, the planet had been little more than an unused colony of the Chiss. The past ruling house, Noris, had been destroyed by a rival ruling house during a previous civil war, and none had stepped in to claim the opening due to the stigma surrounding House Noris' slave-laborers being Killiks. In an attempt to purge the Killik slaves, the Chiss applied appropriate action and poisoned the colony, before continuing with the civil war that threatened their culture. However, unknown to the Chiss, some Killik had survived, and began to reform a new nest, one that was more aggressive and less inclined to peace...

Now, with the expansion of the Chiss Ascendancy once more proactively protecting planets, the sights of the CEDF have settled on Noris. Initial teams didn't reveal much beyond a near barren world, however on closer inspection there appeared evidence of large regions of produce being consumed. The advance teams tried to locate the cause of the consuming, but were set upon by an unexpected enemy. And in an attempt to warn the Chiss, managed to send a single word transmission:

Killiks.

Now, dedicated to containing the threat of the Killik on Noris, the Chiss have prepared an assault force. The planet is surrounded by very large nest ships, armed to the teeth with all manner of harvested and stolen weaponry and defenses, seemingly hostile to any ships that enter the area. They patrol the planets region, seemingly keeping any and all intruders away from three smaller colony nest ships. The sizes of the colony ships indicates a considerable number of Killik ready to spread into the Unknown Regions, and within a year they could number in the millions across several worlds.

On the planet, beneath the surface, the Killik have burrowed tunnel systems to protect their nests and hives. Because of past bombardment and tactics, these colonies are very deep, and require infiltration to plant the appropriate poison payloads to complete the task. Like the Killik manning the battleships in orbit, these colonies also display very aggressive behavior, with little regard to opening communications or submitting to Chiss presence. Left with little choice, it falls to the CEMC and specialist units to push into the middle of the central colony and end the threat.

However, the planet Noris holds far more than Killik colonies and nest ships in orbit. It once belonged to a successful ruling house, who had secrets and enemies. It's possible technology remains from their rule, or hints as to whom killed them during the previous civil war, with a swath of opportunities available for those who seek it...

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And so, with a flash of light and a reversion to realspace, the armada of the Chiss Ascendancy and its allies arrives above Noris. Their objectives clear, their naval and ground forces ready, and the determination to secure the sector under the new Ascendancy expansion doctrine evident...​

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[member="Dezoti"] | [member="Svenn"] | [member="Thadrinn"] | [member="Karisa"] | [member="Lannis Morcus"] | [member="Darth Filiae"] | [member="Rorschach"] | [member="Sentiri"] | [member="Flitha'urian'alan"] | [member="Kee"] | [member="Ozi"] | [member="Tsair'ra'Nuruodo"] | [member="Helion'Nuruodo"] | [member="Marina"] | [member="Ceninvo"] | [member="Kvelduf Ioscyn"] | [member="Sivan"] | [member="Alezan"] | [member="Zsuzsa"] | [member="Vhirr’bel'laminis"] | [member="Desmond C'artyom"]​

 

[Thadrinn]

Location: Outskirts; House Noris Estate; Noris​

Objective: Report to Chiss Fleet and Investigate House Noris' Demise​

Objective 3​

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Taking deep breaths, Mitth'adrin'nvtae slowly felt the beating of his heart began to calm, the world around him fading away until the only the that existed within his reality was solely the beating of his heart, the rhythm of his breathing, and the sight that greeted him within his scopes. Laid prone atop a small hill a short distance from the abandoned and Killik-overrun estate of the deceased House Noris, the stealth systems of his armour fully engaged and a holoshroud further hiding him from view, the sniper of the 21st Commandos - Duuvhal Squad - was earning his worth as the rest of the squad slowly picked their way closer to the estate.

With the 21st and numerous other Commando squads being the first boots on Noris of the Chiss forces, arriving on specialised stealth transports before even the rest of the feel, it was imperative that their presence on the planet not be discovered by the foul beasts, lest their ship nests in orbit be tipped off to the coming attack. As such, as the rest of his squad crept ever closer to the estate, their mission objective being to discover what had lead to the deaths of House Noris in the previous Civil War. After all, it was there deaths that had lead to the Killiks running out of control (even with a lot of blame being placed at the feet of those that had failed to poison the entirety of the infection left over from House Noris' slave practice), Mitth'adrin'nvtae was ensuring that none of the numerous bugs swarming over the estate drew close enough to, literally, trip over Vector as he forged the path.

Breathe In.

Focussing suddenly, his shoulders tensing, Mitth'adrin'nvtae rose slightly from being fully prone, the stock of Cloak - his Chiss-modified Nightstinger Sniper Rifle - being pressed all the tighter against his shoulder.

Breathe out.

Moving slowly so as not to lose his target, the crosshairs of Mitth'adrin'nvtae's scope drifted up the body of a Killik before settling over its head.

Breathe in.

Removing his finger from where it was resting against the trigger guard, Mitth'adrin'nvtae pulled the trigger back a hair, steadily tightening the pressure as the moment to taking the shot approached.

Breathe out... Pause.

Invisible to the naked eye, the bolt surged forth from Cloak with silent lethality, cutting over the distance and piercing through the head of the Killik that had had the unfortunate luck of becoming the sniper's target. Without any evidence to the fact, the Killik's body slumped to the group, it's life robbed from it before it could have even considered that such a fate would befall it.

Breathe out.

Ejecting the spent canister of blaster gas with military-born swiftness and efficiency, loading into place his second, five round canister afterwards, Mitth'adrin'nvtae let his muscles fall lax and dropped fully prone once more. Despite his kill, however, he continued to rest his head against the stock of his rifle, an eyepatch pulled over his left eye, partially blinding him so that he wouldn't have to focus on keeping the eyelid fully sealed. Scanning away from the corpse of his target, tracking a path to one of the entrances to the House Noris' Estate, he grunted in satisfaction at not having any more of the pests appear within his sights, before reaching up to press at a button on his helmet, waiting a few moments for the secure commlink to connect to the commlinks of the rest of Duuvhal Squad.

"Knives. Path to entrance point cleared. Vector, proceed at will. Remaining overwatch. Will join once you reach designated point. Over."

 

[Jared Starchaser]

The service oriented Starchaser was finally feeling like there may be a place for him. He was a rebel at heart, sure, that was his family line. But he knew that service was important, and following where he was raised? That was just as important. A son of both Corellia and Csilla, he had been doing what he could to disrupt the lines of Jen’ari leadership until the Sith Empire and Confederacy stepped in. As his father, Jared was no friend to the former, and the latter he trusted about as far as he could throw them.

As he had returned when the Jen’ari were outed, Jared was doing his best to re-integrate his ExPat Squadron, a group of mostly Chiss who were turned away during the power struggles, and were working with the Alliance and Directorate to study and protect peoples from outside influence. It wasn’t against the Chiss calls, it was protection of the galaxy. And Jared was a Jensaarai, at least partially. He supported the Jedi, but more often he supported the freedom of Csilla. The Chiss Frigate had arrived in the space around Noris and the Clawcraft and Eta Interceptors launching. A mixed bag squadron, but effective.

“This is Commander Starchaser of the ExPat Squadron, fighters launching from Shield of The Wanderer. Heading to intercept Nest Ships. We’ll keep them occupied but we need a ‘dictor on the field, fast.” Jared said as he pushed his gold-and-black Clawcraft’s engines to max.

 

[Elaine Thul]

Elaine was here, she was going to try and help the Killiks. She knew the dangers they posed, but she liked them and hopes to help them. She came with to options for them, escape and be resettled away from xenophobic Chiss. They also had the option of stand and fight, she knew what she hoped they do. Though it was up to them, as it was their lives on the line. She came with weapons, and the means for them to escape. She also had her housecarls with her, to help her as well as a few infantry groups, as well as few killiks from Elysian nothing major. She was not after a conflict with the chiss, but she was after saving the killiks.

She landed and head to there nest, she saw some of them with weapons already, and they did not look friendly towards her. A joiner came forward, and said to her Who are you, and are you with the Blue Menace? She replied politely I am Elaine Thul. Then she beckoned her killiks citizen forward, she noticed a few differences. They where bigger, and there hide looked thicker. They have been bred, for combat and hard work. She saw them talking, and she sat down, to await the outcome of the conversation. She also knew the chiss would be here soon, and they would not be nice to them.

 

[Dezoti]

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Location: Outskirts; House Noris Estate; Noris​

Objective: Report to Chiss Fleet and Investigate House Noris' Demise​

Objective 3​

Nearby: [member="Thadrinn"]​

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The 21st was the best of the best when it came to the Commandos. Where they were sent, no other would do. This was no retrieval mission. Dezoti was in full armor with her personalized Heavy Blaster in hand. All of the 21st were equipped with silenced weaponry and attachments, and as she walked forward the coating on her suit did it's job to blend her in with the environment.

It was slow process, taking each step patiently so as not to break the coating. She had been waiting by the entrance, her pistol up at the ready as Knives invisible shot took out the lone sentry by the 21st's entrance. With the only eyes taken care of she rushed forward to grab the corpse and drag it into the nearby bushes. Dead bodies attract too much attention.

"Kill confirmed. Vector, we go in soft and quiet. No alerting the hive until we have what we need."

 

[Desmond C'artyom]

Location: Outskirts; House Noris Estate; Noris
Objective: Report to Chiss Fleet and Investigate House Noris' Demise
Objective 3
Nearby: @Dezoti [member="Thadrinn"]


Desmond was here, but he was not to be known. He was acting intelligence on this mission as the brass decided a more keen eye would be needed to find out precisely what happened to this once great house and if need be cover up any loose ends that remained. Desmond wore his old Imperial stealth armor and carried a simple verpine pistol. Both would ensure that he was allowed to move quietly and efficiently. While commandos had been assigned to the task, it was feared that something even greater was afoot. The ruling houses possibly even giving rise to the Killik's little kingdom... It was... A disturbing thought.

Unsure as too who could be trusted and who could not, the top brass sent in Desmond to act alone. Uncover any information that he could that might incriminate the ruling houses and return it too Ascendancy higher command. He was also to destroy the data once retrieved. It was not for the public nor the common soldiers eyes. Brass would decide what to do with the information. Whether they prosecuted the perpetrators, if their even were any at all, was completely up to them. Desmond crept low through bushes and snuck upon a pair of killik's standing guard at the rear entrance of the house. With stealth suites and sound bafflers activated he moved like a ghost.

Desmond approached one from behind as he rounded his short patrol and stabbed him in the spinal cord with his suits vibro knife. Grabbing the body before it could fall he used it as a meat shield, but the other killik still assumed his companion held life. Desmond fired three rounds from his pistol into the Killik's head. It exploded in a fountain of gore. Bits of grey matter, purple blood, and chitin flying everywhere. Desmond lowered the dead killik to the ground and approached the rear entrance. He began slicing the terminal and unlocked the rear door with ease. Finally he downloaded a small map from the terminal and made entrance.

 

[Vhirr’bel'laminis]

Objective 2- Killik Fleet​

Noris System, Unknown Regions​

CNS Fehr’osna​

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Allies : [member="Jared Starchaser"]​

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Killiks. Insects. Bugs.

Vermin.


The Captain of the 3rd Strikeforce regarded the multitude of misshapen nest ships arrayed around the world of Noris with a sneer of disgust painted across her dark lips. Vhirr’bel'laminis made no effort to disguise her revulsion toward the Killik. The men and women of the 3rd Strikeforce had been engaged in prolonged action against the Killik for the best part of three years now. Only now that the Ascendancy had freed itself from the yoke of the Jen’ari did Bella hold any hope that her people would recognise and address the growing menace the creatures represented; Only now did she believe that the powers that be would pay attention to her reports of further activity right on the borders of their rightfully deserved Ascendancy.

With a single brow raised Bella regarded the squadron of fighters launching from the distant Shield of The Wanderer, a swarm of tiny craft heading to intercept Nest Ships; Brave or Foolhardy, they would not last long alone.

This whole business was personal, she realised; Bella was under no misapprehension that her objectivity was compromised on this matter. Her own brother and his entire crew had been lost to the hive creatures, her closest kin taken by the chittering, hungering monstrosities. Objectivity was overrated.

The Sentinel’s Nightshadow coating had kept the ship hidden from the preys sensors as Bella had made her close approach toward the outermost ships of the nest fleet. The hunters of The Third had long studied the best way to cripple the Killik; The hive would react to aggression with aggression, whilst they still had numbers advantage they would focus on killing the interlopers. If Bella could pull the bugs in close then the rest of the battlegroup could arrive to deliver a hammer blow that she hoped would spell the eradication of this nest.

“Weapons controls, prepare to online,” she ordered, with a zeal to her words that smacked of pleasure. “Target the first of the Nests tertiary nests, aim to cripple their engines. Communications, Signal the Strikeforce to jump to our position as soon as we are have engaged.”

The Captain of the Sentinel offered no forewarning. No communications demanding surrender. No challenge to her enemies. The Killik were beneath even that courtesy.

“Helm, speed to 50%. Let’s give them something bigger than a few fighters to think about. No mercy, offer no quarter.” she ordered - feeling the righteousness of their duty warm the spirits of her veteran crew.

The tinted lights of the main bridge switched from deep blue to a warning red as the ship increased speed and the nightshadow ceased to mask their sensor presence. The closest Nest Ships started to react, but slowly, engines firing to reposition and intercept the Sentinel.

Too slow.

“You each know the drill. All weapons stations. Open fire.”

The shadowed destroyer’s weapons systems erupted in a sudden brutal alpha strike, staccato bursts of maser fire lit up the space between the vessel and its sluggish prey, Ion blasts interspersed the maser fusillades whilst Turbolaser fire stitched flaring eruptions across the nest ships shields.

Even as Killik vessel suffered, the first scattered volleys of return fire began to test the Star Destroyers shields, flashing and crackling energy impacts dispersing across the vessels defences as the enemy retaliated in kind.

“The strikeforce has signalled its arrival Captain” confirmed Bella’s aide in a measured tone, though her Captain detected the hint of relief in the junior officer.

"Good, Helm, be ready to reverse course should we become overwhelmed. Signal the Nobles to scramble fighters."

Spoiler

3rd Fleet, 2nd Strikegroup - Commanding Officer: Captain Vhirr’bel'laminis

• Command Vessel - CNS Fehr’osna (Sentinel) - Apparition-Class Destroyer - 1000m [ Structure :100% Shields : 94%]

• CNS Tziz’Cla (Gilded Warden)- Patrol Class Cruiser - 500m (MIA)
• CNS Ttro’Cla (Ebon Warden) - Patrol Class Cruiser - 500m
• CNS Vro’Cla (Azure Warden) - Patrol Class Cruiser - 500m
• CNS Nhez’Cla (Argent Warden) - Patrol Class Cruiser - 500m

• CNS Chv’Naxx (Noble Naxx) - Carrier Class Support-Carrier - 1137m
• CNS Chv’Loer (Noble Loer) - Carrier Class Support-Carrier - 1137m

• CNS Brrzt I (Hound I) - Fighter Screen-Class Corvette - 150m (Destroyed in Action)
• CNS Brrzt II (Hound II) - Fighter Screen-Class Corvette - 150m
• CNS Brrzt III (Hound III) - Fighter Screen-Class Corvette - 150m

• 20 x Squadrons of Nssis-Class Clawcraft
• 6 x Squardrons of Nssis-Class Fangcraft
• 1 x Squadron of Tether Ships

 

[Matt the Radar Tech]

UNKNOWN REGIONS​

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Noris System.​

Objective 2: The Nest Ships in Orbit​

[member=Vhirr’bel'laminis]​

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The vessels of the 2nd Fleet emerged from hyperspace, appearing with flickers of light not far from the other Chiss strikegroup in-system. This time, the threat of the Killiks on the planet Noris was known and prepared for, with no need to be cautious or staggered launch formations. This was a culling, to stop the threat the hive insect species posed to surrounding regions of space. While some in the galaxy would find it deplorable, Mitth'orn'eruod was willing to bet their tunes would change when they became swarmed by millions of Killiks seeking to absorb their worlds into their hive minds. The same argument tended to be made by those ignorant of the outcome, often accusing the Chiss of overreaction or genocide, but the truth was simply a matter of survival - if the Killik were left to their own natural instincts, to expand as they wished, the galaxy would be overrun within several decades.

"Move to attack formations, pincer the enemy between third fleet and our formations, do not allow those colony nest ships to leave this system," Mitth'orn'eruod said with conviction in his voice, as it carried across the bridge. His crew were already moving, calmly and precisely enacting commands. "Have Talon Two form on our flank, and begin firing when in range. Talon Three will remain out of the initial combat, instead focusing on ranged support with turrets and projectiles. I want a circular attack pattern around the enemy fleet, I want them contained within our sphere of fire, do not allow them a direction to escape. Spread vessels appropriately to avoid crossfire incidents."

The command crew continued sending orders through the chain, as the Vice Admiral stared with disdain at the distant Killik ships. They were a plague on the galaxy, existing purely to spread and consume, like insects that swarmed produce fields and didn't stop until all matter was devoured. When patrols had discovered this particular outcropping of Killik, and their clear actions to spread into Chiss space around the region, it had become one of the most important missions for the CEDF and its forces to deal with.

"Flight Control, launch all fighters. Have the bombers perform attack runs and target the larger nest ship weapon emplacements," Mitth'orn'eruod said as he studied the displays of the battle near where he stood, before looking back out the viewport. "Captain Vhirr’bel'laminis' fighters appear to be angling toward the colony nest ships, so we won't interfere with their flight paths. Command all our fighters to remain out of firing trajectories until we've engaged the larger vessels, taking their focus."

Mitth'orn'eruod looked to the communications officer, raising an eyebrow.

"Comms, put me through to Third Fleet," The Vice Admiral said, while the connection was established. There was no need for jamming systems against the Killik, as they didn't use standard communications. "This is Vice Admiral Mitth'orn'eruod of Second Fleet, greetings Captain Vhirr’bel'laminis. Our formation will be enacting a circular flight pattern around the Killik fleet, aimed at containing attempts to escape. You are welcome to join the formation or remain outside of it to fire as you will. Simply let me know, and I will adjust our positions accordingly to avoid friendly fire."

The comm officer waited for a reply, as Mitth'orn'eruod put his hands at the base of his back, observing the initial exchange of weapons fire that flared through space ahead...

CEDF - 2nd Fleet, 1st Battlegroup

Spoiler

Commanding Officer:

• Vice Admiral Mitth'orn'eruod

Command Vessel [Talon 1]:

• CSB Csahn'arcsi (Sovereign) [Mohn-Class Battlecruiser - 5000m] [100% | 100%]

Front-of-Line Vessels [Talon 2]:

• CSD Vumesin'ci (Wayfarer) [Mohe'in-Class Star Destroyer - 900m] [100% | 100%]
• CSD Nehso'cssa (Blackhole) [Ticsuti-Class Escort Cruiser - 500m] [100% | 100%]
• CSD Rcati (Star II) [Ticsuti-Class Escort Cruiser - 500m] [100% | 100%]

Support Vessels [Talon 3]:

• CSC Tsicert (Ferryman) [Tsicah-Class Star Carrier - 1137m] [100% | 100%]
• CNS Vun'ruti (Solace) [Medical-Class Frigate - 300m] [100% | 100%]
• CRC Csact'isi (Bulwark) [Fighter Screen-Class Corvette - 150m] [100% | 100%]
• CRC Lescah (Shield) [Fighter Screen-Class Corvette - 150m] [100% | 100%]

Fighters & Transport Vessels [Talon 4]:

• 15x Squadrons of Nssis-Class Clawcraft [120]
• 7x Squadrons of Clawcraft-X [84]
• 1x Squadron of Tether Ships [12]

 

[Jared Starchaser]

Objective 2: Killiks… IN SPAAAAAACE
Also writing a better intro
Allies: Chiss, [member="Thorne"] [member="Vhirr’bel'laminis"]
Location: Space, ExPat Squadron moving towards Nest Ships

What his pilots lacked in the larger ships, they made up for in ability. Chiss trained, and enhanced by years of combat experience, the fighters had a few tasks. First, and foremost, was defanging the weaponry on the other vessel. Not armed with masers, as the squadron had been away from Chiss space, and despite the Starchaser homeship Dawn Treader being crewed by Chiss, the maser technology was just trickier to come by. While his Eta’s had rapid fire lasers, they lacked the missile launchers needed, but the 6 clawcraft in his squadron? They were rebuilt with the core technology of a clawcraft in mind, but the lethality of the Alliance X-Wings, and that included energy torpedo launchers.

Lighter and easier to maintain, these provided the ability to dummy fire essentially a charged up laser blast in a straight arc at a target. The fighters were moving towards the nest ships as the heavier guns from the Chiss warships started firing.

It had been too long since Jared was in a conflict where he heard the friendly sounds of chiss style weapons. Pushing the clawcraft to the redline, the lined up his target and called out the shots. The Clawcraft all launched an energy torpedo straight for the targets, breaking off with the Eta’s adding laser support and shield support.
Flying in a style of overlapping shields had become a trick the lighter squadron was used to, in order to keep alive. Jared looked at his scans and saw the commands coming up from the Shield, they were bringing in the support unit.

“Sentinel, we have a dictor inbound. ETA 3 minutes. Contact Vortex when ready for us to deploy a gravity well.” Like his father, Jared wasn’t the type to worry about heavy hitting, others did that. He was a striker, and that mover, and his ships made up for their apparent shortcomings in other ways.

 

[Matt the Radar Tech]

NORIS ESTATE GROUNDS

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Objective 3: The fate of a lost house
[member=Thadrinn] | [member="Dezoti"] | [member="Desmond C'artyom"]

The large commando crept through the overgrown flora, his Chiss Commando Armor keeping even his bulk silent. Slung across one shoulder was his scattergun, and across the other was his assault rifle, but for the infiltration Vector held a Plasma Daggerhttp://starwarsrp.net/topic/140176-chiss-ascendancy-plasma-dagger/ in his hand, ready for silent kills. Ahead, a silent bolt took down the nearby Killik guard, dropping it instantly with no chance of alerting the hive mind. Vector paused as Blackout rushed forward and dragged the body into cover. Both commandos then confirmed continued infiltration, to which Vector clicked his comm twice, not using his voice due to the proximity of the large estate building.

Reaching up to his helmet, the commando activated the life-form scanner. Immediately his HUD was filled with a green pulsing overlay, as the scanner penetrated the thick walls of the manor, lighting up dozens of Killiks within. Vector's helmeted head moved around as he looked through the walls, the targeting sensors marking locations of enemies and maintaining their positions to the connected commando helmets.

"Sentry approaching the entrance," Vector said in a low tone, as he moved out of the bushes and pressed against the wall of the building where the now-dead Killik had once stood. It seemed the sentry was approaching, possibly on a patrol route. "I've got it."

The old door opened with a creak of metal, as the insect stepped out into the open. Before it could register that the guard was missing, which would have sent an alert through the hive to locate it or contact it, Vector had stabbed his blade deep into the center of the Killik's chitinous head - the blow pierced the neural stems and killed it instantly, to which Vector grabbed it with his other gloved hand by the neck and forcefully lifted it out of the doorway. The articulated joints of the commando armor allowed for improved physical performance, and with the large commando's already considerable strength, moving the humanoid sized insect wasn't an issue.

"Ready to enter the manor," Vector said as he laid the Killik against the wall, keeping a watch on the doorway with his pineal eye display. He didn't have to look backward, because the helmet already gave him three-hundred and sixty degree vision. "Chrono says CEDF fleet will arrive any minute."

Vector pulled his blade free, wiping it on the dead Killik, before he pressed up against the door edge and peered inside the dark interior, ready...

 

[Matt the Radar Tech]

9TH MARINE PLATOON TRANSPORT
Objective 1: The Killik Colonies
Location: CSC Ferryman hangar bay, Noris System

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The assault had begun. The ship sounds had changed, the thrum of turrets firing could be felt, and the tension had risen. Chaf'arcar'usorn was standing with his marines near the CEMC transports, each of them ready and armed. Since the assault was being led by the more combat appropriate vessels of the Second Fleet, it was that the marines were stationed on the CSC Ferryman - the Chiss Star Carrier - that held back from the front line.

"When we touch down, we'll be right in the thick of things, marines," Chaf'arcar'usorn said loudly, his voice carrying through the hangar and across the area to the platoon under his command. "Our job is to make sure these insects do not escape this planet. Unfortunately someone didn't trust the marines to handle the task before, so now we're here to mop up the mess!"

Chaf'arcar'usorn cracked his neck, as he adjusted the marine helmet under his arm. The troops were ready, he could see the look on their faces, the determination in their eyes. They would need that for the task to come...

"Our objective is the central colony. We are going to land fast, land hard, and we cannot let anything stop us from planting the fizz charges," Chaf'arcar'usorn said, turning to look at the marines that were carrying the bombs, explosive experts all. "We will have exactly fifteen minutes to vacate the tunnel systems, so it's imperative that we secure our path in and not have it be overrun so we can get out. Are there any questions, marines?"

Chaf'arcar'usorn looked down the rows, eyebrows raised.

"Ask now or we won't have the chance!"

 

[Thadrinn]

House Noris Estate Grounds; Noris.​

Objective 3: The Fate of a Lost House​

[member="Tryenu"] | [member="Dezoti"] | [member="Desmond C'artyom"]​

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"Copy that, Vector. Hold position, I'm moving to join you now."

For the past few minutes, Thadrinn had been silently watching over the rest of the squad approaching the entrance to the estate, needing to only squeeze off two more shots during that time period to neutralise Killiks that had drawn too close to the group of commandos, the efficient system Duuvhal Squad operated under ensuring that the bodies were neatly concealed so as to prevent other Killiak patrols from running across the corpses of their fellow pests and alerting the nest to activity. However, now that Vector, the point man of the squad, had reached the entranceway to the manor, Knives' position in overwatch would be better served by him joining the rest of the squad and assuming a light weapon role.

With the loses that the 21st had suffered during the Civil War, even with the new nozut that had joined them, the 21st were still under-populated, their numbers few. As such, it had not become unusual for the squad to break from their assigned roles and start to cover multiple roles at once, so as to ensure that they lost no other members of their little family and that, as the remnants of the squad limped out from the ash and dust of the Civil War, they continued to be heralded as one of the more elite commando units.

What drive pushed the others to do this, Knives did not know, but, in the privacy of his mind, he could admit that his driving force was a desire to uphold the legacy that Scrambler and the rest of his lost brothers and sisters had help forge.

Moving quickly, hands performing through instinct rather than focus due to the many times he had rehearsed his actions, Knives soon had his little sniper's nest packed away - the small number of items being tucked into one of the small bags hanging from his belt - and Cloak slung over his back. Picking up the holoshroud, deactivating it so as to preserve it for later use, Knives' heads-up display lit up with life signs populating the manor as the information sent from Vector's scan was finally integrated into Knives' systems. Ignoring the sudden change in visuals, familiar with what was happening from previous missions, Knives unslung Kindness - a CCA-01 Chiss Charric Assault Rifle - from where it hung at the small of his back, locking the stock into his shoulder as he began to quickly, silently and near-invisibly down towards where Vector and Blackout were stationed.

Slowing down as he neared them, Knives dropped into his place towards the back of the small group, giving no signal for his arrival since, with the three-hundred and sixty degree vision granted by their armour, Knives was certain that they were already aware of his approach. As such, he simply settled into place scanning the surrounding area, waiting for Vector to give the signal to follow him into the manor. A small alert appearing on his display distracted Knives for a moment before he returned to his position as a lookout, speaking softly so that his voice would be carried over the comms systems but not to any of the nearby vermin.

"CEDF fleet in orbit and preparing to engage nest ships." Before they had even deployed for their mission, it had been decided among the group that Vector would track the chrono until the CEDF would arrive, but it would be Knives that would give the alert once the fleet had arrived, to ensure that the focus of all the commandos wasn't split as they awaited the alert. "Be wary of changing behaviour among the scum, just in case their blood hive minds alert them to the fact that they're under attack." Though Knives was sure that such a warning didn't need to be repeated, he did so anyway, just so as to ensure that it was at the front of everyone's mind if nothing else.

 

[Dezoti]

​

Location: Outskirts; House Noris Estate; Noris​

Objective: Report to Chiss Fleet and Investigate House Noris' Demise​

Objective 3​

Nearby: [member="Thadrinn"] [member="Tryenu"] [member="Desmond C'artyom"]​

​

---

---

---

​

---

​

"Hopefully it'll drag their attention elsewhere. But on the chance it doesn't, act like we're on a clock." Dezoti whispered her orders into the helmets mike system. A simple system kept their voices from being heard outside their closed circuit coms. For stealth missions it was a welcome advantage to be able to talk clearly in enemy territory. With the HUD lightning up green with Kilik forms, the 21st had the advantage.

Blackout took position on the opposite side of the doorway from Vector, her silenced pistol in hand and at the ready. She gave him a swift nod, the signal to enter. For now there were no Kiliks on the other side, but that'd soon change. Their objective was the computer room, and there was plenty of bugs between them and the core of the building. "We clear room by room on our path. We'll have to be quick so no patrols find the missing sectors. Look for paths to avoid combat."

 

[Elaine Thul]

Objective: 1
Allies: Killick
Frenemies: [member="Farcarus"]

They still talking, she could not understand them, as the clicks. She was sat on a stone, when the Joiner came over to her and said We have been attacked, we don't who by. She instantly know who by, the slaughter of these inocent creatures has begun. The Chiss where merciless it was there nature, they even wiped out own half there own kind. These killiks had no chance, they had no tech, and where not advanced in tactical planning as the Chiss. She turned to the Joiner and said, The Chiss are now attacking you, we need to get you out of here, all of you. The Joiner then communed this with the hive mind, then there was a short pause. We will defend our land, you must return to yours. That was not the answer she hoped for, she hoping they choose to leave with her.

She signed and replied If that is what you wish, but they will burn you. The Joiner replied No They Will! She then turned and head back to the nest. The was very little she could do, but turn back towards her ship. She head back, but then housecarl said We should stick around, incase they change there mind. She nodded, and waited on her ship. She could not get involded, unless she was attacked directly.

 

[Desmond C'artyom]

Location: Outskirts; House Noris Estate; Noris
Objective: Report to Chiss Fleet and Investigate House Noris' Demise
Objective 3
Nearby: [member="Dezoti"] I [member="Thadrinn"] I [member="Tryenu"]


Desmond entered the rear of the manor, closing the door behind him. He was immediately disgusted by the sight. The Killiks had begiun nesting and laying strange eggs throughout the house. Cobwebs clung everywhere and dust adorned antique familial belongings. It was a shame really, that such a beautiful home, once filled with so much history, would go to waste. Desmond imagined the Chiss who had once lived here, going about their daily lives. Their children playing in the foyer, with small toys of CEDF naval vessels. He bent low to pick up one of the small ships and his cloak faded, it was indeed a wonder. He hoped at least some of them survived.

A door opened.

Desmond almost froze in place, but just managed to roll beneath a small table flanked by two couches. He could hear the audible clicking of two killiks. Their disgusting chirping giving him goosebumps. A killik hopped over the couch and Desmond felt a bead of sweat fall from his brow. Carefully he pressed a button on his gloved hand and resumed stealth. He rolled back from beneath the table just as the Kilik crushed it with a massive clawed foot. They appeared to be more aggressive. They knew the Chiss were planetside, but did they know they were here? Perhaps they only suspected.

Desmond watched as one approached the back door while the other simply stood by the table, it's beady eyes scanning the room. Desmond raised his pistol and fired once, twice, thrice, into the killik's torso. The silent rounds punching holes in the creature the size of small dogs. Blood and gore painted the couches a new color of purple and grey. The other killik began to open the back door and Desmond knew if he did not take him out he would spot the bodies of his comrades. He carefully jogged up to the creature careful, so that his footsteps would not be heard and with vibro knife thrusted upwards into the creatures cranium.

Ending it's life quickly and efficiently.

He looked round for another terminal, but found none. It seemed the next closest access point was in the other room...

 

[Vhirr’bel'laminis]

Objective 2- Killik Fleet
Noris System, Unknown Regions
CNS Fehr’osna

Allies : [member="Jared Starchaser"] | [member="Thorne"]

---

Despite the base nature of the Killik as a species, the hive angered was no simple foe to be underestimated. As the first of the Colony Nest Ships began to disintegrate under the withering fire of the fleet, the swarms of Killik fighters from a dozen Nest Ships had launched an intense assault on the Sentinel and its escorts. Damage reports filtered in from every vessel in the Strike Force; Hound I was overwhelmed and fighting for its life, Hound II had repositioned to support its packmate, both anti-fighter Corvettes lit up the space around them with constant and overlapping streams of maser-cannon fire from glowing hot spitfire turrets.

Two Dozen Squadrons of Nssis-Class Chiss fighters had been deployed from the hangar bays of the twin carriers CNS Chv’Naxx and CNS Chv’Loer as well as the cruisers escorts who supported the Sentinel. The swarms of fighters weaved intricate dances between the hulking ship, each squadron playing out their own microcosm of the war at hand as they fought to counteract enemy attack-crafts. Here and their an explosion or a sudden flash would indicate the final fate of another pilot. Bella held onto her hopes that more of those fireballs were enemies than friends.

A trio of medium-sized nest ships had positioned to focus on the cruiser, Argent Warden. The vessel had felt the barrage of heavy turbo lasers as well as the payloads of concussive warheads. The damage reports arriving spoke of reactor failures in the ships main power grid, The old girl was limping, though what power she still possessed continued to rain fire upon the second of the colony nests.

Bella stood resolute upon the command dais, passing orders to her subordinates and reading the swirling course of the battle, her keen eyes darkening as she watched the first of the Hound’s rapidly approach structural failure. Sentinel herself faired a little better, the Star Destroyer’s impressive defences had thus far held out against the brunt of the enemy attack, with losses of only a handful of turrets and minor structural failures. She had felt the sting of Killiks before and lived through worse odds.

“Helm, Course to my mark, All ahead. Take us close to the Hounds. Add our fighter support turrets to theirs. Comms, Inform the Chv’Loer to redirect three squadron’s of the Fangcraft to aide our efforts. The Wardens are to continue to focus primary targets and remain close to the carriers.”

“Captain, Message from Vice-Admiral Mitth'orn'eruod -”

"This is Vice Admiral Mitth'orn'eruod of Second Fleet, greetings Captain Vhirr’bel'laminis. Our formation will be enacting a circular flight pattern around the Killik fleet, aimed at containing attempts to escape. You are welcome to join the formation or remain outside of it to fire as you will. Simply let me know, and I will adjust our positions accordingly to avoid friendly fire."

Bella’s gaze flicked to the incoming battle date once more, considering the admiral's words and nodding to herself before forming her reply.

“Salutations Vice-Admiral. We are holding the position for now as the primary targets are within striking distance. Incoming firepower is manageable for now, Disabling the vessels approaching at 122 - A would ease our task somewhat. If the opportunity arises, sir.”

The vessels bearing down on the Cruisers were a considerable threat to her smaller vessels, anything the Admiral might be able to offer to reduce that risk would only aide Bella in achieving her mission.

“Hound 1 is losing shields… ”

“Signal Lieutenant Commander Ferzz’hime’ammi,”

The crackling sound of the Lieutenant’s voice spoke a moment later, transmission laden with heavy static pops and fades. “Captain, Hound is suffering.”

“Lieutenant-Commander, You have my leave to attempt a retreat if the opportunity arises, or failing that abandon the vessel, We will do all we can from here. Good Luck.”

“.. Aye, Captai-” the transmission was already severed again before the junior officer's words were complete.

“Incoming message-”

“Sentinel, we have a dictor inbound. ETA 3 minutes. Contact Vortex when ready for us to deploy a gravity well.” State a new voice, the signal arriving from one of the fighter craft from the Ex-Pats. As unsure as Bella might be about the newcomers, the arrival of interdiction on the field would be a welcome addition.

“Very well, In form Vortex that the well should be deployed as soon as they arrive upon the field.”

Spoiler

3rd Fleet, 2nd Strikegroup - Commanding Officer: Captain Vhirr’bel'laminis

• Command Vessel - CNS Fehr’osna (Sentinel) - Apparition-Class Destroyer - 1000m [ Structure : 92% Shields : 58%]

• CNS Tziz’Cla (Gilded Warden)- Patrol Class Cruiser - 500m (MIA)
• CNS Ttro’Cla (Ebon Warden) - Patrol Class Cruiser - 500m [ Structure : 81% Shields : 41%]
• CNS Vro’Cla (Azure Warden) - Patrol Class Cruiser - 500m [ Structure : 92% Shields : 65%]
• CNS Nhez’Cla (Argent Warden) - Patrol Class Cruiser - 500m [ Structure : 67% Shields : 12%]

• CNS Chv’Naxx (Noble Naxx) - Carrier Class Support-Carrier - 1137m [ Structure : 100% Shields : 70%]
• CNS Chv’Loer (Noble Loer) - Carrier Class Support-Carrier - 1137m [ Structure : 97% Shields : 52%]

• CNS Brrzt I (Hound I) - Fighter Screen-Class Corvette - 150m (Destroyed in Action)
• CNS Brrzt II (Hound II) - Fighter Screen-Class Corvette - 150m [ Structure : 33% Shields : 2%]
• CNS Brrzt III (Hound III) - Fighter Screen-Class Corvette - 150m [ Structure : 81% Shields : 42%]

• 20 x Squadrons of Nssis-Class Clawcraft
• 6 x Squardrons of Nssis-Class Fangcraft
• 1 x Squadron of Tether Ships

 

[Matt the Radar Tech]

UNKNOWN REGIONS​

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​

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Noris System; Space.​

Objective 2: The Nest Ships in Orbit​

[member=Vhirr’bel'laminis] | [member="Jared Starchaser"]​

​

The Csahn'arcsi began firing, it's compliment of support vessels following in a lined formation, maximizing broadside firing capabilities on the largest nest ship. A nearby crewman reported damage across the Chiss armada, with concern for the CNS Brrzt II being evident, given the status of its shields and hull. Mitth'orn'eruod frowned, quickly assessing several scenarios that would allow the heavily damaged corvette to escape the combat. However, before a decision could be made, there was significant movement from another of the capital nest ships... and it was not an unexpected turn of events, as Mitth'orn'eruod narrowed his eyes.

"Dartships launching, Vice Admiral!"

"Bring the corvettes Csact'isi and Lescah forward to prepare for anti-starfighter screening of Talon One and Two," Mitth'orn'eruod ordered, narrowing his red eyes at the distant dartships that moved like a body of insects. "Have all Clawcraft squadrons on standby, ready to engage dartship squadrons on my command. Weaponry crew, I want shock nets loaded and fired on my command. Also, order the Rcati to break formation and place itself between the nest ships and the Brzzt II, allowing it time to regain shielding and leave combat. Inform Captain Vhirr’bel'laminis of the covering maneuver and to order her corvette away."

The crew responded immediately, numerous voices speaking into communications mics and sending orders through the ships. The danger the dartships presented was considerable, considering most of them were effectively planning to crash into the Chiss vessels and explode. The Killik, unlike the Chiss, did not care for the individual and therefore had no compunctions about sacrificing oneself for the hive. And that was precisely what Mitth'orn'eruod planned on...

"Inform all Chiss fleet forces to not engage the dartships. Let them come to us."

* * *​

​

From within another capital nest ship, a concerning number of Killik fighters burst into space, swarming. From past experience, the destructive potential of those dartships was well known to the Chiss. Moving as a hive, the Killik fighters began making for the Csahn'arcsi and Talon Two, seeking to damage the larger attack force that was closest to the Killiks own vessels. The piloting Killiks were evading, twisting and avoiding fire from all ships that surrounded them as best they could; some took hits, exploding in bright flashes, while others held so much explosive materials so as to damage nearby dartships also.

* * *​

The Vice Admiral watched the approaching dartships, several dozen moving forward with great speed. The spread of the formations was of little concern, as the predicted flight for the dartships was about to change. The positions of the swarm, how they followed three specific trajectories despite appearing to spiral randomly, told Mitth'orn'eruod of their intended targets and when they would begin ramming...

"Prepare to fire shock nets from Talon One and Two, expansion range immediate," Mitth'orn'eruod said as he stepped forward, hands gripping the railing below the viewport before him. "Steady... wait..."

Outside, now closing distance and within firing range, the dartships changed flight paths. Suddenly they separated into three aggressive formations, splitting off and targeting 2nd Fleets main attack vessels. Mitth'orn'eruod smirked, having seen the patterns before, but knowing back then access to shock nets wasn't as readily available.

"Fire shock nets!"

From the three large Chiss ships, the capsule-like missiles exited warhead tubes, racing toward the rapidly approaching dartship groups. With an internal explosion, popping the shells of the capsules, a series of large kilometer-wide gossamer-like nets expanded quickly into the area before the enemy fighters. The charged netting created staggered circular obstructions, which spread out far faster than the dartships could evade given their headlong charge to ram their enemy. Swaths of the dartships were caught by the netting, impacting and shorting out as their basic and salvaged systems were overloaded, leaving them dead in space.

"Send all Clawcraft squads forward, send corvettes Csact'isi and Lescah forward," Mitth'orn'eruod commanded, as he smiled, watching a large portion of the dartships now tangled and hanging dead in space. Some managed to avoid the nets, but their numbers were significantly less. "Begin cleaning up the fighters. Start with ones still active and engaged, then sweep through the disabled craft. Leave none alive."

Mitth'orn'eruod watched the onslaught for several moments, before looking to the comms crew.

"Order the marines to begin landing. We need to target that central colony and destroy it."

CEDF - 2nd Fleet, 1st Battlegroup

Spoiler

Commanding Officer:

• Vice Admiral Mitth'orn'eruod

Command Vessel [Talon 1]:

• CSB Csahn'arcsi (Sovereign) [Mohn-Class Battlecruiser - 5000m] [97% | 81%]

Front-of-Line Vessels [Talon 2]:

• CSD Vumesin'ci (Wayfarer) [Mohe'in-Class Star Destroyer - 900m] [92% | 94%]
• CSD Nehso'cssa (Blackhole) [Ticsuti-Class Escort Cruiser - 500m] [98% | 89%]
• CSD Rcati (Star II) [Ticsuti-Class Escort Cruiser - 500m] [99% | 96%]

Support Vessels [Talon 3]:

• CSC Tsicert (Ferryman) [Tsicah-Class Star Carrier - 1137m] [100% | 100%]
• CNS Vun'ruti (Solace) [Medical-Class Frigate - 300m] [100% | 100%]
• CRC Csact'isi (Bulwark) [Fighter Screen-Class Corvette - 150m] [100% | 100%]
• CRC Lescah (Shield) [Fighter Screen-Class Corvette - 150m] [100% | 100%]

Fighters & Transport Vessels [Talon 4]:

• 15x Squadrons of Nssis-Class Clawcraft [120]
• 7x Squadrons of Clawcraft-X [84]
• 1x Squadron of Tether Ships [12]

 

[Samara Raine]

​

9th Marine Platoon ​

Objective 1 - Killik Colony​

Aboard the CSC Ferryman, Noris System​

Standing by on transport for landing orders​

[member="Farcarus"]​

​

​

The Marine Sergeant's stomach was one hard knot and the waiting to kill the enemy of the Chiss didn't help. It was not public knowledge per se regarding where Suz was born or how she came to grow up at the orphanage in Csaplar before attending the Ascendancy's military academy. The Fraz family had long ago vanished into the annuals of past Ruling Houses; minor that it even was. The reason for their disappearance a quietly spoken memory, if even remembered at all except in the instances of scholars and those in the need to know.

Massoss had been House Fraz's homeworld - one of the eastern most colonial planets from the core of the Chiss Ascendancy and not on the Path of the Houses. It had largely been wiped out by the Killiks with the Chiss becoming Joiners. And, that had been the fate of Fraz'suz'safis' parents. The young girl however had been rescued by missionaries along with the last of the non-Joiners, which were only a handful. They were taken to Csilla to be evaluated and those still fit were allowed to continue on being productive members of Chiss society; fulfilling roles that suited them. Suz's had been the military; joining the enlisted ranks of the Marine Corps as a sharpshooter.

As the "Niners" stood by on their drop ship within the belly of the Chiss Star Carrier awaiting the landing orders, Chaf'arcar'usorn gave his rallying speech. The Marine Captain's words hit home and brought Fraz'suz'safis out of her melancholy and back to the reality of the grave situation that would meet them once the marine forces set foot on Noris where a Killik colony was embedded. She had to pull it together, quell the raw emotions bottled up inside her waiting to burst free, and lead the men and women of Theta Squad with a clear head well remembering the core principles of the Marine's:

Baz, Vun'ur, Htusi.... Duty, Honor, Glory.​

Fraz'suz'safis looked down the line at her squad after the 9th's commanding officer asked if there were any questions regarding the mission parameters. With none noted as was expected, the NCO turned her dark head back towards the captain and gave the thumbs up.

A moment or two later the Chiss Marine Corps battle cry was shouted enthusiastically by the awaiting battalion echoing within the confines of the transport. It sent chills down Suz's spine and made her proud to be a Marine fighting for the Chiss Ascendancy.

"Morcah!" she yelled along with the others gloved fist held high in unity.

​

​

​

 

[Samara Raine]

​

CEDF 2nd Fleet, 1st Battlegroup​

Objective 2/X - Killik engagement in space​

Aboard the CNS Vun'ruti​

[member="Thorne"] | [member="Vhirr’bel'laminis"] | [member="Jared Starchaser"]​

​

​

The Medical Frigate Solace reverted with the rest of the Chiss Expansionary Defense Force's 2nd Fleet into the Noris system. The support vessel was nestled in behind the Tsicah-class Star Carrier the Ferryman along with the Bulwark and Shield, two Fighter Screen-class Corvettes, positioned on either side of her. They made up the Talon 3 Group, and were stationed at the edge of the fleet.

Brask'ari'sabosen stood in her usual spot on the bridge with hands clasped behind her back not too far away from the Captain, who was in his chair. The Senior Medical Officer was in charge of the Chiss Mobile Surgical Unit. As soon as it was safe to do so, the CMSU or "Cimsoo" for short would deploy ground side to the rear area of the conflict on Noris to provide primary medical aid to those wounded, then those needing more advanced care would be ferried up to the frigate via an evac ship.

The Killik Fleet was not making it easy for the 1st Battlegroup, but it would only be a matter of time before the superior navy would decimate the lesser one, well that was the plan and hope anyway... Crimson orbs took in the ensuing space battle ahead. A few butterflies seemingly fluttered in Ari's stomach as her idleness allowed for varied thoughts. Once in the thick of things though, the seasoned Battle Surgeon's resolve would be steeled and focus sharp.

Now to await further orders...

 

[Matt the Radar Tech]

NORIS ESTATE MANOR

---

Objective 3: The fate of a lost house
[member=Thadrinn] | [member="Dezoti"] | [member="Desmond C'artyom"]

Vector nodded to Blackout, then moved into the manor proper. He scanned the room, despite his helmet displays not showing any lifeforms within. It always paid to be prepared. The layout of the manor was straightforward - a large rectangle, with two parallel hallways that went from one end to the other, with large rooms off them in three rows. There were also three floors to the manor, which meant ample space for Killiks to create an outpost.

"Moving into the hallway," Vector said, watching as his HUD sent out another pulse, updating the positions of the lifeforms inside the manor. The Killiks didn't seem alert to the commandos presence, but they were definitely more active and perhaps agitated. "The fleet assault in orbit has them on edge, Cap. See the twitching?"

Crossing the large ornate room, ignoring the remains and deposits of the Killiks in the corners of the area, Vector reached the far hallway door. He knew no insects were in the hallway itself, but a pair were walking into another room opposite. The plan was to work through the layout, take out each group, and clear the manor. Easing the door open, the large commando decided it was time for his suppressed assault rifle, as he put the knife back into its sheath and withdrew his rifle. Tucking the stock to his shoulder, Vector grasped the door handle to enter the room and neutralize the pair of Killiks... when suddenly their life signs disappeared?

Vector frowned inside his helmet.

"We've got company," He said into the internal mic. A quick activation of several helmet settings enhanced the HUD display. "Honing life form scan..."

Inside was another individual, the sentient's form fuzzy and distorted, but still picked up by the focused life form scanners inside the next room. Seemed whomever it was also had cloaking, which meant it could possibly be another commando or... well, Vector wasn't sure. Either way, whoever it was had taken out some Killiks, in a very short time frame, so they had some skills...

"We making contact, or engaging?"