First Contact (Levantine Sanctum Dominion of Tygara)

[Kaida Taldir]

Location: Aboard the pirate ship
Objective: Kill things, free slaves, do non-PG-13 things with [member="Coryth Elaris"] later
Post 4

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4K0LB9hCa_Q​

There was destruction, death, carnage and the cold. A terrible, numbing cold that was chilling to the bone, even for those with underarmour thermals and protection against hazardous environments. Nato's microburst of rushing air had violently hit the ground, the air sprout that shot away propelled pirates and machines alike helplessly into the vortex of the whirlwind that Kaida had unleashed. The deafening howl of the powerful wind, so much like the cry of a wrathful goddess, tore through the hangar as pirates were broken against the walls, ground or pieces of machinery. At the great velocity and speed they were travelling, with several Angelii having joined in casting to amplify the intensity of the storm, the impact was instant death for many.


Moreover, with the temperature dropping and dropping the ground was not only turning slippery, but balls of snow were forming. With the blizzard came reduced visibility and disorientation, leaving many corsairs helpless prey as the Angelii charged. What ice had begun, fire and lightning completed as the elemental powers of Kaida's battle sisters were unleashed. Snow melted like before a supernova as gusts of flame swept through it. If this had not been such a brutal business, if the violence had not been so real, the scene might have counted as beautiful.


"Charge," Kaida called to her battle sisters, holding up her lightsabre, though they needed no encouragement as they advanced. Moving as a unit they cut down several of their enemies before they could form, but then the battle began in earnest and the Angelii broke into pairs, one to attack, one to defend the other. Kaida took up her shield, defending the Angelii near her as she unleashed a blast of lightning at a Trandoshan pirate. The energy made the lizard stagger, and Kaida's lightsabre sliced his arm off and toppled him. A second stab finished him off. "Nantaris, we are taking the gantry. Move up and we can have them surrounded." With [member="Valiens Nantaris"]' Rangers moving up and attacking, the enemy would be decimated, even if fresh units of pirates were pouring in from the corridor up ahead in what would be a futile bid to keep the attackers contained. The wind, though weakened now, continued to rage with relentless abandon and fury.


Kaida focused her power, then she and three of her battle sisters leapt into the air up the gallantry. The defensive emplacements and e-webs of the corsairs had been thoroughly thrashed and scattered across the hangar by the winds unleashed by her and Nato, leaving the corsairs without their heavy guns. Kaida landed next to an armoured corsair, striking downward with her lightsabre. His armour absorbed much of the energy, but smoke sizzled up from the points of impact and the warrior howled and fell to his knees, then she stabbed him through his helmet's visor. Her blazing yellow blade swirled around her body, slicing the arms off of one Zabrak. Switching to the Soresu form, she whirled about, blade spinning in a flash of brilliant light to block a pair of blaster bolts that were aimed for the back of her head. However, a burly looking Trandoshan corsair took advantage of her brief distraction to tackle her from behind. Gripping her helmet with both scaly, clawed hands he smashed her into the ground like a rag doll with a sickening crunch, white hot pain shooting through her as her armour cracked. Cortosis was a powerful defence, but still brittle and while it was very resistant against energy attacks and lightsabres, it did not stop blunt trauma. As the lizardman grabbed her limp neck he suddenly cried out in anger and fear when his hands were frozen from the touch. The cold spread across his body and he could only watch helplessly as he was turned into a lizard popsicle.


With a groan Kaida arose, staggering slightly and reeling him from the impact, though she waved one of her battle sisters away when she tried to help her up. All around her corsairs were being efficiently hewed down. One corsair charged her holding a mighty hammer but was cut down by the APE bolter rounds of a fellow Angelii. Her head felt like it was spinning but as her danger senses flared she called her lightsabre into her grasp and ignited it, just in time when suddenly a torrent of lightning tore through the cold air towards her, surging forth from the fingertips of a Wookiee carrying a massive hammer, whilst two battle droids tried to flank her and opened fire with heavy blasters. Meanwhile, a lightly armoured Zabrak forcer with a sword was going for [member="Natol'ine"], sending a blast of telekinesis towards her.


The Wookiee was the bigger threat so her lightsabre rose to meet the electrical blast. Her shoulder felt dislocated and her sworm sluggish from being bashed into the floor earlier, so her deflection was not perfect and she reeled, for though most lightning coiled around her blade and was blocked, some of it passed through and struck her.


With her focus on the lightning blast there were blaster bolts that got past her defences and peppered her, given that the guns were rapid-firing, but most of the energy was dissipated by her cortosis armour, though she felt a searing burn across her sword arm. With a bestial growl the Wookie charged across the ground that separated them, seeking to ram his chainsword into her and cleave her in half, whilst in his berserker rage he summoned telekinesis to toss objects and bodies at her.


Many were turned away or broken when a terramancer Angelii came to her aid with a shockwave then suddenly as the Wookiee was upon her he gasped for breath and began hemorrhaging as she drew upon her Sciia to drain the heat away from his body, causing his body temperature to drop...very, very rapidly. It was as if a massive, ice-cold hand had gripped him and was draining him. Even the legendary endurance of a Wookiee fury was no defence against the siphoning of essence that leeched the life intensity from him, leaving behind a frost-shrouded corpse. In the meantime the droids had gotten close and Kaida weaved through a hail of blasterfire before suddenly seemingly out of thin air super accelerated icicles manifested and were shot straight towards them, penetrating their armour and hitting their sensitive circuits with a speed that came close to that of railgun shots, so that they crumpled to the ground like puppets whose strings had been pulled.

 

[Glade]

Essence of nature out ahead, her wind spout once created had a mind of its own! Density around it had to be maintained, by controlling the moisture of its surrounding air, to alter her wind’s direction. She’d never directed winds this powerful before, even just enhancing another’s like she was!

So it was one petite little Kiffar girl kept their straight line winds going forward, her tunneling wind ahead of her like a great big battering ram of her own! She only wished Sio could see her! That thought made her almost trip up on her own bubbling pride. Every little pat on her back her Master had given her, had made her more confident, raising her spirits.

Spirit and pride that was raising and sending corsairs flailing around helplessly tossed by wind!

As others refocused for their charge, her connection wasn’t strong enough to hold her storm like this, and off the tunneling wind went ahead of her, out of her grasping hands, she almost tried to physically reach for it! Gradually her winds dissipated ahead into a wall, but not before several pirates were bounced around into those walls or barricades.

Howling wookies, battle all around, her face showed concern for [member="Kaida Taldir"], even all mean and grr like she was, she didn’t want anything bad to happen to her, but right now she had problems of her own! Some pesky pirate with a sword.

Keeping herself ready, drawing from those around her, she took on qualities of her battle sisters, and more importantly her Master. So when his tk attack was thrown, thanks to Sio she knew what to do, trained by the best. She waited and applied just enough force, at the right point to hold a shield up, there was a deep pinging sound as translucent green sparks pushed back and blocked the attack. Then she let her shield go as his attack dissipated, to conserve her energies, but she wasn’t doing this standing still.

Acrobatic swings across her body, pushing off of one foot, Aurora went one way horizontally, then rotated her the other way in a full circle, spinning her backwards with a leap, her saber flicking around and trailing after her. Her form had two goals, strike fast, get out and get clear, and getting clear was just fine with Nato! Yep!

Glancing her weapon off her target, the Zabrak had blocked vertically and then came at her, Ataru had little to no defense, just get out of the way, and then attack was the easiest way she’d been shown. Not till you’d mastered what you were doing, did you have much option, which she still had a long way to go to do!

Dipping her shoulder lower, Nato span up and around, kicking a roundhouse to his face, her light foot just tapped him, but unbalanced the Zabrak. Their weapons met across her front, her jump continuing her ahead of him. Ducking low, and whirling Aurora back she stabbed behind briefly, jumping away again.

Brief was all it took, the pirate collapsed in a heap.

Pfft, dipping low to balance herself, she blew some hair out of her eyes, and raced ahead to [member="Kaida Taldir"]’s side.

[member="Kaida Taldir"]

 

[Coryth Elaris]

"Go ahead, you can laugh. I know it's amusing." The redhead said, sensing a bit of amusement in the Angelii. The Master Empath couldn't help but sense such matters. It was the very reason she was wanted here and now. And no, Coryth opted not for wearing a helmet this time. It seemed an obstacle to her diplomatic duties. For now.

The tiny woman offered an appreciative smile to the Eldorai Wing Leader, "Thank you. I could not be more thankful." She said politely as she fidgeted momentarily in the armor. I don't know which is worse, the paperwork. Or the armor. Right now the tally is 1 for the armor. And 1 for the paperwork. We'll see which wins out the day. It all seemed a little much for the small woman, but needed. Needed very much as often as she had gone on simple diplomatic missions only to have them end in much pain and blood for her.

Reaching up she nervously ran a hand through her hair before she stepped outside of the dressing area and back into the hallway. It was a quick matter from there for her to head to the hangar, so she could move over to the Ardarvia. As she stepped in, heading to her ship, she found a surprising amount of soldiers there waiting for her. For a moment she paused, and blinked just once. Well there is a third thing to add to that tally list. Minions. Taking in a deep breath she did her best to push her annoyance away to the back of her mind and compose herself. It shouldn't bother her. Well, anyone else it would not have. But Coryth hardly saw the need for all the fuss.

None the less she headed for the ship, allowing the minions to help her inside. This just feels wrong. But you know any other Exarch has guards, protectors, aides and others. This is normal, you just don't like the fuss being made over you. No, I don't. I'm not that special. I'm just another human being. One that happens to be in a position of power, a position that people will try to get to you for, to use you, abuse you and force the Protectorate into the stars know what. Point. So, get over the idea that you don't need these people. They are here to help you, and you need to get over the fact that needing another's help bothers you so damn much. Pride can't get in the way anymore. People actually care about you and need you.

As she settled down into her seat on the shuttle, Coryth couldn't help but fidget further in her armor. It was mostly the boots that were driving her nuts! "They so don't make these for comfort, do they?" Said to no one in particular.

"If your feet end up feeling uncomfortable, Exarch, no need to worry. I'm sure your girlfriend's ice-cold touch will soothe them." Harmony spoke in her usually trollish manner. Harmony having been lent to her by Siobhan to help aid her in whatever way she could.

The result of which was Coryth flushing a bright red, nearly instantly. From the edge of her hairline, down her neck and clearly went much... Much further under her armor.

"Harmony!" Coryth finally managed to speak. A bit shocked at the woman's words, unsure how to even manage it as she ran a hand through her hair looking every bit dumbfounded for a moment.

The rest of the trip went quietly with Coryth at last arriving on the Ardarvia. She with her minions soon stepped off the shuttle and onto Siobhan and Teg's personal ship. A sigh came as she glanced to the people around her, a little nervous at having so many there with her. It hardly seemed needed.

As she walked in to join Tegs and the others A voice was heard, "The Lady Exarch of the Omega Protectorate, Coryth Elaris," a minion, whose main job was apparently being an announcer, declared. Said announcer may or may usually perform this job for Siobhan.As if she could not have gotten more embarrassed in one day. Still this time she managed not to turn a vivid shade of crimson, but she suspected that somehow Harmony and Siobhan were working together to troll her today. Even if Sio was back home on Kaeshana, somehow it felt like her reach was endless and her ability to troll ever evolving.

[member="Kaida Taldir"] | [member="Valiens Nantaris"] | [member="Coci Heavenshield"] | [member="Callista Gseran"]​

(3)

 

[Delila Castillon]

[member="Coryth Elaris"] | [member="Natol'ine"] | [member="Kaida Taldir"] | [member="Valiens Nantaris"] | [member="Callista Gseran"] | [member="Coci Heavenshield"] | Post #2 - Objective : 'Diplomacy'



Ships of the Reltooine Mining Corporation glided out of hyperspace on high alert. Delila was standing on the bridge, gazing out he viewports while listening for any sirens to blare out. With the way word had reached them, one would think the planet's atmosphere would be swarming in ships. Yet there was nothing on the sensors -- not that they could be jammed. A quick visual inspection proved all was quiet. The crew worked on bringing more long range information about to continue to scan.


"Perhaps we've reached them in a lull. It does look like we've come about the early morning cycle on this side of the planet. Tygara....I think someone called it. Probably an old spacer name."


Delila was musing to no one in particular. She did want to know what they were up against though before landing.


"Broadcast a transmission, see if anything replies."



The crew quickly sent to work, broadcasting a message on all channels. If someone was nearby, they'd certainly pick up the message.



This is mining support vessel Gaea of Reltooine Mining Corporation. Requesting contact from all sentients who hear this message. This is mining support veesel Gaea.....

 

[Valiens Nantaris]

[member="Kaida Taldir"] | [member="Natol'ine"]

Whilst the Eldorai and Natol’ine stormed the gantry and dealt with the pirates up there the Rangers turned from defence into attack.
“Move forward, boys, let’s go! Scindia, with me!” Nantaris ordered. Moving from defence into the attack, the rogue and his friend moved forward. Nantaris was a naturally skilled swordsman, but Scindia was even more so. For Nantaris his way had always been Shien, to which he had added the more defensive Djem-So later until he became something of a master of it. Scindia though preferred the athletic grace and strength of the Force formed through Ataru.
Together they made a formidable team, moving forward Nantaris would take the lead, blocking lightsabre bolts and often reflecting them back. When they got close though Scindia would charge forward at the depleted enemy, leaping into combat and dealing lethal blows with his blue blade before retiring back behind his friend’s bulwark.

Whilst Kaida dealt with the enormous wookiee, the Rangers faced a rather different opponent. As they dealt with the Corsairs they had almost reached the doors out of the docking bay when concealed hatch opened beneath Nantaris’ feet, forcing him to flip back to stop himself falling into the pit.
Out of the pit came an imposing figure. Wearing heavy armour and equipped with gauntlet mounted flamethrowers and a repeating blaster, it immediately launched into the attack. Nantaris rolled to the side, calling on the Force to shield him as he lashed out at the armoured monster. Unperturbed, it rumbled forward, aiming both flamers at him.
Blaster bolts seemingly had little effect against the Corsair’s armour, and when Scindia flipped in to slash it with his blade it did little more than scratch it. Indeed a quick flaming riposte forced Scindia to dive aside, his robes smoking and blackened.

Nantaris took a second to look around. Clearly this Corsair had been equipped to fight Force users, and had some form of protection. Still, he was not invulnerable.
“Scindia, ronto tag!” he called.
It was a code for them. One would bait, the other would strike, and in this case Nantaris needed to focus.
Scindia acknowledged, leaping forward again to draw away the Corsair’s attention, this time firing a blaster right into the slaver’s armoured face. It didn’t penetrate, but it certainly irritated enough for the desired effect. Flames came forth and Scindia only barely avoided by leaping behind a crate.
Nantaris meanwhile knelt, calling on the Force as he rarely had for a long time. He had always found when faced with a situation like this that hitting the target in hopes of a breakthrough would not suffice. No, this required something else. He had already selected his implement. The hanger bay was full of crates and other items, but he selected a large square shipping container and called on the Force to move it.
Slowly at first, then picking up speed like a train it squealed over the metal floor, and the Corsair was too slow to avoid it as it slammed into him, knocking him to the ground. Alone it would not do the job, but then Nantaris brought down an overhead fighter down right onto where he lay with a satisfying and very final crunch.

Walking over he helped his somewhat singed friend up. “Kaida, we’re done from this side. Head through the upper level, we’ll meet up in the holding cells, but first I’m going to take a slight detour to the bridge….”

[member="Coci Heavenshield"] | [member="Callista Gseran"] | [member="Coryth Elaris"] | [member="Thurion Heavenshield"] | [member="Delila Castillon"]

On the bridge of the Ardarvia Tegaea examined each of the messages which came in, and greeted each person who entered.

“Coci! It’s so good to see you again!” she said warmly, coming forward to shake the Silver Jedi’s hand. She’d not seen her since the wedding, but she liked the other woman a lot. “Thank you for coming, I think we’re going to need a diplomat or two for this operation.”

She concealed, just, a smirk as Coryth entered. She knew the short stack of fire hated being given titles…and wearing shoes. This was just too rich, but in public she’d have to keep professional.
“Welcome, Exarch, thank you for joining us. Please, let us go to the shuttle bay.”

Walking with Coci and Coryth away from other ears she could talk a little freer.
“I have a dropship prepared, a second will be ready to intervene if necessary with support troops. My translator, Chesna, will speak to them, but you tell her what to say. She will translate exactly…won’t you, Chesna?” she said pointedly.
The Eldorai looked entirely too innocent. “Of course, Mistress! Whatever you say, Mistress Heavenshield, Mistress Elaris will be my command. My tongue is yours to use as you wish!” She knew Coryth would blush, and hopefully she’d get a reaction from Coci too!
Tegaea coughed frantically, but managed to give the trollish Eldorai a stern look.

Reaching the hanger bay they entered and soon departed, followed by another which brought backup troops and supplies.

As they departed Tegaea received a routed message from her ship from a…mining company?
“Mining support vessel Gaea this is Firemane Industries and Technology CEO Tegaea Alcori. What brings you out here?” she asked suspiciously. It could be a trap to bring more pirates under a false flag. Already the Ardarvia was turning to face this new ship in case it was a threat.

XXX

Far below, the coming of the space people was not unnoticed. Astronomers across Zeheb had been ordered to focus on the sky.
No sooner had her orders had been given and she had gone to bed, Shahbânu Semiramis was roused from sleep by Bashyira.
“Mistress, the lights are back…and coming closer.”
Rubbing the sleep from her eyes the Shahbânu investigated herself and found that indeed it was so. They had not been fortunate enough to capture one of the skyships in the previous battle, so she knew little about them. Briefly fear filled her, but she took a deep breath.
“Assemble the host, we march to confront these invaders. Have my guard with the sky weapons in my personal company,” she ordered.
They would show these invaders that technology would not overcome bravery.


(4)

 

[Coci Heavenshield]

[SIZE=12pt]She greeted Tegaea with a warm smile, the first time to meet Sio’s wife was at the wedding and Coci liked her too! “Likewise Tegaea, it is good to see you again”, turning to a Master she had not the pleasure of meeting before this day, Coci bowed, “I believe you are Master Coryth Elaris. I am Coci Heavenshield”, she is still getting used to the name which delights her.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=12pt]Moving apart from the others on the bridge, Coci focused on the situation as Tegaea spoke more freely. “That is well, let’s hope a diplomatic solution can be reached and we have no need of back up forces. However, the situation with the Corsairs is worrying, we will be more mindful of them rather I think, but nothing that cannot be handled”, if necessary they will engage them if the situation escalates. [/SIZE]

[SIZE=12pt]After the introduction of the translator, Coci smiled at the comment not lost on her. The coquettish nature of the woman will have to be checked, but her comment did little to make Coci feel awkward but rather reminded her of her husband, which made her grin more. His coquettish nature in more private situations brought to her mind, and she took in a deep breath to help rid herself of the momentarily lapse thinking of [member="Thurion Heavenshield"].. and his ways. [/SIZE]

[SIZE=12pt]Departing for the dropship, they soon would be on ground to begin their way to the leader and commence talks. However, Coci noted the concerning look on Tegaea face as she received a message. “Anything wrong Tegaea?”. [/SIZE]

[SIZE=12pt](5)[/SIZE]

[SIZE=12pt][member="Valiens Nantaris"] | [member="Delila Castillon"] | [member="Coryth Elaris"] | [member="Natol'ine"] | [member="Kaida Taldir"][/SIZE] | [member="Callista Gseran"]

 

[Kaida Taldir]

Post 5
Location: Aboard the Valora's Blade, in space.
Objective: Secure space.
[member="Tegaea Alcori"], [member="Delila Castillon"]


The sudden appearance of a mining ship would not only be noticed by the Ardarvia, but also by the Valora's Blade, along with its escort ships. To recapitulate, the Blade was a heavy support cruiser and at present the most powerful ship in the space above Tygara, fully able to theoretically unleash plenty of firepower. Fortunately for the natives down on the planet, it had not come here to conquer, otherwise its heavy guns and bombers could have rained down destruction on Zeheb unopposed.


Commander Lysette received the news of the Gae suddenly appearing with suspicion. With one pirate corvette destroyed and the other having surrendered and the frigate unable to move or fire, the Blade was ready to face the new ship if it turned out to be a threat. Word was received that Firemane was already hailing the new arrival, the Eldorai were not under Alcori's command, so they sent their own message. Their bombers had been recalled after pulverising the corsairs, but swarms of nimble starfighters were still out there on patrol in the cold vacuum of space.


No one would be allowed to land on the planet without authorisation. The situation down there was probably already tense enough and it would be terribly difficult to convince the locals that they came in peace. "This is Commander Lysette of the SQS Valora's Blade, to the Gae. State your intentions. This world is under the protection of the Kaeshana Confederation and the Sanctum. Confirm identity." Well, not quite yet really, but it sort of counted! What with them having crashed the corsairs' slave grab.




Click soiler tags, if you wanna see what Sio is doing! Specially written for [member="Coryth Elaris"]

Spoiler

Location: Kaeshana
Allies: Redheads, Elves, Silver Jedi.
Enemies: Paperwork, doomsday clock, lack of redheads


Meanwhile while everyone else was having a fun adventure half the Galaxy away, Siobhan was in her office in Firemane Headquarters on Kaeshana, seated in a plush leather chair. As surprising as it might appear to the dear reader and to this writer at times, she was working. To be precise, she was dealing with all the bureaucracy that came with organising the evacuation. They were months away from doomsday, but preparations had to be made to save as many people as possible.


And she was in charge of organising things on the Kaeshana, which meant running Firemane. Truth be told, she had been de facto running the corporation for a good while before the Netherworld event thingie, but this was nothing compared to the burden now on her shoulder. At this point in time she had been penning a memo.


"If the Eldorai people are to survive, we must pay special attention to saving the next generation, the youngest. Especially since the maturation process for an Eldorai is decades longer than that of a human and birth rates are not what they used to be.


It has already been decided to use a lottery system to choose families from the general populace, but we can do that closer to the event. The richest households will be able to sign a confidentiality contract, in which the government explains what will happen and, return for not disclosing the truth - under pain of exclusion and jail-time - and helping fund the evacuation, they can 'buy' themselves a seat. But that will only save the richest. This does not always overlap with being 'gifted' or 'intelligent'.


Under these circumstances, it is smart to evacuate orphanages and boarding schools whose pupils have no parents, in order to avoid unrest. We cannot evacuate all commoners - those with influence inevitably end up having more of a chance - but we can give them more consideration. A list of all institutions on Kaeshana has been made, including one of boarding schools with especially gifted pupils, regardless of class. For the rest we shall be using a lottery system. Out of the list we will be choosing a sample of institutions who will be evacuated to Tabaqui, Arkas and Vandelhelm where Firemane has influence and can guarantee their safety, or to special accommodations on the Tirathana Skyport. Quarters and wardens for them will be arranged.


All this has to take place under conditions of extreme secrecy, with harsh penalties for anyone who strays. Our model are similar measures undertaken by the New Republic to evacuate children from vulnerable worlds during the Vong War. To organise this, we shall be creating a joint Eldorai-Firemane body analogous to the Children's Offworld Reception Board. Those children who are not evacuated during the trial run will receive space on our super freighters when the exodus takes place. The youngest dwellers, especially those who don't have influential families, deserve special consideration.


Separate arrangements are being made to save the Kar'zun. Their numbers are small enough that they could all be moved, emancipated and given their own land. Needless to say, to prevent violent outbreaks they'll get evac ships separate from the Eldorai. They're under my personal protection, ergo any attempt at sabotage will be met with immediate and disproportionate force.


Firemane is taking steps to move heavy military equipment and vehicles (tanks, walkers) from its Kaeshana garrison to holdings in Free Space. Same with ammunition, fuel, spare parts. It's not our desire to subjugate Tygara, but we must be prepared for hostilities. Especially since hostile third parties may take an interest - more dangerous than common pirates. Tertiary and unprofitable assets are being sold off. The base on Gehenna is closing this week, its personnel is being sent straght to Free Space.


Attached is the bill of the expected costs and the funding Firemane requires from the Eldorai (use Exarchate authority of to get more ships and funds, speak with Coryth Elaris). Judah Dashiell has declared himself ready to help and we might be advised to reach out to Grand Master Thurion Heavenshield and Master Coci Heavenshield of the Silver Jedi to get more people off planet."


That penned Siobhan put the paperwork away and could turn herself to more pleasurable topics, for the moment at least. Specifically a certain adorable little redhead, who had suddenly been thrust onto the galactic stage after being made an Exarch!

Still this time she managed not to turn a vivid shade of crimson, but she suspected that somehow Harmony and Siobhan were working together to troll her today. Even if Sio was back home on Kaeshana, somehow it felt like her reach was endless and her ability to troll ever evolving.

As a matter of fact, it was in this exact moment that Siobhan's comm/i-pad/device thingie suddenly beeped and she received a message from her loyal minion Harmony, her 'personal attendant', whom she had lent to Coryth to look after her every need! The transmission contained a text message about how Coryth was doing and an image of her walking around in her cute little suit of armour, blushing furiously at all the attention! The image was so cute to make Siobhan smile and momentarily lighten up her mood a bit. Even though Coryth was an Exarch now, Siobhan still felt responsible for her and liked to keep tabs on whatever she was doing. It had nothing to do with trolling, not at all. Running a hand through her dark brown mane, Siobhan felt there was some need for relaxation after all the bureaucratic tedium and so she made a call to Elayne Saedaris, her favourite Angelii, enquiring whether she was 'free' for the next hour or so.

Location: Aboard pirate frigate
Objective: Kill bad people, save slaves, do non-PG-13 things to Coryth later!
[member="Natol'ine"], [member="Valiens Nantaris"]


The hangar had been cleared and they were free to proceed. Apparently Nantaris wanted to go to the bridge, doubtless under the belief that there would be a boss fight. Kaida felt like being contrary just for the sake of it - for one, she was not under his command here - but she had already achieved plenty of 'glory'. What with having fought Bando Gora hordes and helped kill a Lotek'k. Besides, her primary reason to be here was to get the elf slaves out.


So she made a gesture to one of her officers, addressing her. "Host Leader Askari, hold position with your squadron and cover our exit. Notify the Blade and have medics ready for the slaves when we return." She looked over to the Scotchman. "I'll be taking the slaves to the Blade once we're done, then heading planetside. Move it, girls."


At that she indicated to Natol'ine to follow her and the rest of the Eldorai battle sisters who would be moving to the higher levels of the frigate. Kaida was not the sort for motivational speeches or even praise, but the Kiffar was proving herself to be a useful asset. It appeared that the numbers of pirates had diminished after the ferocity of their onslaught, or perhaps the corsairs had simply retreated further, aiming to lure them into a trap. In any case they moved down further into the battleship towards a long, narrow corridor, passing the corpses of corsairs that had recently been piled up and slain by them. The Eldorai moved in loose formation, battle sisters providing mutual cover as they checked every corridor, ready to assume phalanx when needed.


Needless to say it did not take long for opposition to emerge as they were getting closer to the prison cells, which were further up ahead. Rather than corsairs suddenly hitting them guerilla style, it came in form of automated defence turrets suddenly revealing themselves when they emerged from hiding places inside the floor and from beneath the ceiling. Within moments the rather dark corridor was lightened up by the turrets unloading hailstorms of laser rounds towards the Angelii, spewing them out at a tremendously fast rate as they unleashed their full firepower, which was accompanied by them pumping out heavy duty grenades.



"Take cover, Lomasi Manoeuvre!" Kaida barked out, having to raise her voice to make herself heard over the cacophony of sound, though the Angelii needed little encouragement or instruction. The tactic in question was named after a legendary Sciian called Lysandra Lomasi and the Angelii battle sisters quickly went about executing it.


There was little in terms of natural cover and the rotary cannons were spewing out rounds too fast for them to be deflected via a lightsabre, so they used the Force as Kaida manifested a protection bubble. She breathed heavily at the exertion but then her efforts were joined by other Angelii. Terramancers skilled in mastery over the earth and stone harnessed their powers to turn their skin as thick as rock, forming a powerful barrier that withstood the blasts, telekinetic specialists knocked explosives off course and began brutally tearing down turrets. Terramancers more joined the Cryomancers, strengthening the Ice Wall with bended metal and conjured supports by tearing out large pieces of wall.


Elemental shields dissipated the heat unleashed by the blaster bolts or absorbed them. Exertion and strain was evident on Kaida but she held the barrier even as it was peppered with rounds and explosives, making it shake and flicker under the pressure, then at a nod of hers the barriers were dropped. In a flash the terramancers sprang into action as they harnessed their powers to twist and break the metal that the turrets were composed of, thrashing it bit by bit as they crushed it.


The corridor was shaken as if struck by tremors as turrets crashed to the ground and were broken or taken out of commission as a powerful wind crashed into them. There was a loud boom when one Angelii fired a heavy bolter, blowing up a group of corsairs who had been charging. However, while the Angelii were dealing with that the floor directly above them was suddenly shaken and then blasted apart by an explosion, debris raining down upon them whilst the detonation sent Angelii flying. Kaida herself was thrust through the air though she managed to catch herself and kick herself off the wall before crashing into it. Gritting her teeth as debris rained down everywhere and feeling like a rib or two had been broken she utilised her Sciia to summon a whirlwind that swept through the air and gripped debris, sending it flying through the corridor away from her battle sisters.


"Reform line. First squadron up front, second rearward. Prepare for ambush and take the last turrets down!" As if confirming what her danger senses had been telling her, opposition suddenly manifested from the gaping hole inside the ceiling above as very wild and hungry looking nexu dropped down and jumped them. Kaida would have wondered whether the corsairs were taking tactical tips from Sith and Bando Gora if they were so intent on launching beasts on their opponents, but she was sort of occupied. From the roof, from behind, even from the walls itself, beasts came along with corsairs, but though their charge was swift it seemed poorly organised.


Nexu were tough, ferocious and vicious, but they were still beasts. The Angelii fought in two lines, broken down into pairs as beasts were hewed down with sarix or sarzmigar. Others stood back, using bolter or blaster pistol and their elemental powers. As nexu dropped down from the roof they would spread out to encircle the animals and then hew them down. Kaida's danger senses flared just in the right moment as a nexu dropped down from a hole in the ceiling above her, mouth full of massive teeth, and she dodged, gripping the beast with her wind and smashing it into the wall.


Handing her Taegis shield to a battle sister, she spun to liberate a beast of its head before retracting the gauntlet of her free hand and, as she harnessed her Sciia, unleashing an ice wave outburst which, much like the detonation of a powerful cryoban grenade, turned beast and corsair alike to ice as it swept through the corridor. A moment later, the frozen opponents shattered as they were blown up with bolter rounds. A nexu managed to bite her in the hand but she wrenched herself free and a moment later the beast got its head sliced off before being used as an improvised projectile to bring down a slaver by ramming him. The Seraph's lightsabre, a gift from her time with Omega Pyre, glowed with yellow fire as it sliced apart beast and slaver.


(Un) fortunately for Kaida her writer had decided that the new dom rules are the perfect excuse to keep spamming wall of text posts. Needless to say this meant that she needed to face even more opposition. And so it came to pass that she happened to face a corsair who possessed the good sense to understand that death charging against forcers was not a good idea.


Seemingly out of nowhere appeared an imposing figure, clad from head to toe in badly dated but still serviceable beskar'gam and equipped with a gauntlet mounted flamethrower and a mighty beskad that was splattered with blood. Clearly the corsairs were a racially diverse bunch who believed in equal opportunities evil, since they had managed to integrate Zabrak, Trandoshans, Wookiees and Mandalorians. It was always good to see that the criminal underworld was being so opposed to speciecism. In this particular case Kaida had no cause for rejoicing about this because the Mandalorian had been able to sneak up on her.


Wasting no time the armoured berseker immediately launched into the attack and went on the offensve as his personal cloaking dropped, his greatsword coming for her head, aiming to rid it from her body and send it tumbling across the ground. She had not sensed his coming until he was close to her, but sensed danger fast enough to quickly dodge the incoming blow so that he missed her head.


However, white hot pain shot through her as his sword landed a powerful blow in her shoulder. The sheer impact was enough that it felt dislocated and, while cortosis was a powerful defence, the materiel was quite brittle, so her armour was penetrated and blood splattered the beskas through the bloody wound. Her arm felt like it had ceased functioning, then the Mandalorian brought her down by ramming his elbow into her Taegis shield. Due to it being an energy shield the berserker was suddenly seized by an electrical shock and was shaken by it, but she still tumbled down to the ground.


A sensation of pain surged through her as she lay there, but adrenaline and discipline took over and so she quickly rolled out of the way when the beskad came down at her again, then responded with a hard kick to the shin that did not bring the Mandalorian down but knocked him back a bit. Out of thin air an icicle suddenly manifested in the air and was shot towards him with super acceleration. Before he had any time to react it had been rammed through his helmet's visor and stabbed him right in one of his eyes. Blood covered his broken visor as it seeped out of the wound, then Kaida levitated her damaged shield to ram him in the chest with a sickening crunch that was guaranteed to herald the breaking of ribs, sending him flying.


With a deep groan she got to her feet, feeling very wobbly. One arm was useless, though fortunately she was ambidexterous and as such called her lightsabre into the grasp of her other other hand, moving to counterattack. But the Mandalorian was not done yet and lunged forward, coming at her like a bull, forcing her to dodge laterally. Unfortunately for her they were in close quarters and her throw had not taken him far and in the thick of melee she could not manifest the focus needed for more complex spells.


Using Soresu she parried his heavy blows repeatedly with the precision she could muster while fighting one-handed, giving ground where needed as he alternated between cuts and thrusts. Dodging and blocking the blows seemed to be taking a toll, and she utilised fluid acrobatics common to Ataru to get distance. Feeling frustrated, the Mandalorian raised his gauntlet and unleashed his flamer upon her. Flames surged towards her and...dissipated due to water conjured up by her power.


By now Kaida had had enough, especially since this post was ridiculously long anyway, and decided to end it. Fortunately for her there was plenty of debris lying around and so as her implement she selected a rather long piece that had once been a beam hanging from the ceiling. When the Mandalorian slashed at her she cart wheeled away, then gripped the iced piece of debris and sent it flying towards his back, ramming him. The mere impact caused massive blunt trauma and internal injury, bringing him down and making him feel as if a speeder had collided with him. The sharp, iced beam travelled through his armour and embedded itself in his back. His life was ended when an ice-cold hand decided it would be good fun to stop his heart. While she used her powers to stem the bleeding and seal her wounds, Kaida decided that the next time her writer wanted to force a wall of text post on her, she would simply short-circuit that by going all Force Unleashed, Cryomancy Edition on the generic opposition.

 

[Glade]

Post #5
Location: Belly of the Pirate Ship
Objective: Grr Pirates, hey no biting, where’s my snow boots!

In over her head, was what that young Natol’ine thought first, nah, fun. Yep. Needing no encouragement to follow, she was having a blast. Rushing forward, leaping up, the kiffar girl was nothing if not quick. Keep cool Nato, be like Sio, she blinked a few times, rush of air brushing her thick hair up as she ran. Brrr, it was cold here now, and she really didn’t like those mad Nexu cat things. Silly things to think with what they were going through, but so much was a blur, as she dodged and weaved, sounds and sensations almost drifting away to memories.

Aurora was weaving with her, hopping up high and over to land on a single foot. Vaulting over a Nexu her vision blurred, but came back when she landed, in and out of memories, coming and going. Hopping from one foot, spinning her upside down and sideways, Aurora caught the claw of a Nexu pawing for her. While mid air shots sailed through her legs upside down, missing her and killing the creature.

Landing, and turning, she was faced with a turret firing rapidly at her! Dancing side to side, then up and rolling her into a tiny ball mid air, the most dexterous and nimble you might ever see her, training and experience took over. One petite little girl landed on top of the turret, chopping off the barrels, then rolling away while it exploded.

Spotting [member="Kaida Taldir"] was in trouble! But this was tiring, taking her ages to get there, you could see Nato was slowing. She blew her hair out of her eyes, force was with her but she knew she’d just dodged a bullet. Whirlwind picking up around the padawan girl, she landed by Kaida’s side, current carrying her around and flashing her saber into a pirate to cover her friend’s back.

Back to back, which saw three more pirates coming for the injured Kaida, “No biggy got’cha back,” tiring but still there, Ataru took it out of you. She had yet to really learn that, leaping off again in her force assisted wind, light debris carried around her and her saber spinning outward, one pirate didn’t stand more than a second against the yellow wind assisted saber's glow. Close in to her opponents, she was too slow now, the second corsair gave her a good kick to her stomach and the third, a crack on her back. Back, that was her weak spot since Coruscant and her surgery, oooff Nato fell forward.

Aggressive, just do, Sio’s words and action. Controlling her pain, Sio had saved her life with that technique, because she swept her legs around and kicked upwards, knocking one man off his feet. Rolling aside, Nato stabbed up against the slower to react third opponent, she was almost away!

CRACK

....

She really, really felt that boot to her jaw, dazing the petite girl and sending her flying back toward the wall. The second man was back up, looming over her, about to stamp down again right on her back....

Urggghh that was goin’ta sting tomorrow! Urrrr, head, whats that.... her eyes tried to open.

[member="Kaida Taldir"]

 

[Coryth Elaris]

Coryth frowned a little as she heard the word Exarch come from Tegaea. It certainly was going to take some getting used to, hearing others use her title. Nevermind that she had any other title than Master to begin with, and even Master bugged her more than she liked to admit. "It's good to see you, Mrs. Alcori." Sticking with formalities here as she followed the firemane to the shuttle bay.

And then Chesna happened. Coryth stopped mid step, paused ... and blinked once before her skin flushed a most vivid crimson shade. "Chesna, sweetie....." Now was hardly the time or the place. And well, her usually most fair skin, feeling all sorts of flushed only furthered her embarrassment. "I'd like to not look like a space lobster by the time we get to the planet. Can we work on that? Because I'd love to be presentable and not look like some other special kind of alien creature." Her tone even, measured ... taking every bit of her energy just to manage to say all of that before she died of embarrassment completely.

Coryth managed a sheepish smile before she gave a small bow to Coci. "Master Heavenshield, a pleasure." Said softly as the red hue was just starting to fade from her cheeks. "Just call me Coryth, please if you don't mind."

She nodded, "I hope so as well. I'd prefer if things remained simple and uncomplicated." But Coci was right, the Corsairs were a concern but the one furthest from her mind. "I suppose we'll just have to be careful and mindful once we get to the surface. Who knows what other matters are in play tonight and what other trouble might be out there." It was the unknowns rather than what was know that concerned her.

She still couldn't help but subconsciously reach to fiddle and fidget with the collar of the tiny suit of armor. Nothing about it was comfortable, and she had half a mind to remove it. However, she knew better. Kaida would hear, Siobhan would hear about it and the tiny redhead with a penchant for getting into incredibly dangerous and sticky situations would never hear the end of it.

[member="Coci Heavenshield"] | [member="Valiens Nantaris"] | [member="Callista Gseran"]​

​

(4)

 

[Valiens Nantaris]

[member="Kaida Taldir"] | [member="Natol'ine"]

Whilst Kaida headed off with Natol'ine to free the slaves and ice things up, Nantaris headed in the opposite direction, for the bridge.

The frigate’s best defenders had already perished defending the hanger, and the surviving crew were in no mood to throw their lives away for the most part. Some resisted the Ranger’s advance; they died. The rest Nantaris sent back to the hanger where Eldorai troops could take them prisoner.

However, as they neared the bridge they found a large blast door blocking their path. After seeking a fruitless means of breaching the door, with lightsabres or the Force, Nantaris was left frustrated.

At that moment Mytirae came to the fore. Looking up at the ceiling she saw there was a narrow space behind a grate.

“I know this sort of ship. I can get in there, drop down the other side and open the door.

Nantaris looked doubtful. “You’ll be dropping in all alone. Until you get the door open I can’t protect you.”

The blue Twi’lek flicked her lekku scornfully. “I don’t need a man, or a human to protect me.”

Not chastened, Nantaris shrugged. “Your choice. I’m getting some heavy weapons from the ship.” He looked up at the grate above and reached out his hand. “Scindia…” he said, focusing. With his friend assisting the metal great tore free as the invisible hand gripped it.

Myrtirae nodded approvingly. “Give me a boost.”

Nantaris was happy to oblige as it meant that he got quite a view of his newest crewmember’s assets at very close quarters.

Into the narrow duct like a gizka the Twi’lek wriggled and vanished.

There was silence as Nantaris started getting out the charges need to breach the door. Then suddenly there was the sound of blasters from the other side, explosions and distant screams.

Nantaris winced.

“She’s got spirit, boss,” Scindia said.

“Entirely too much. I like my Twi’leks docile.”

Scindia gave him a sidelong look. “Doesn’t often work out that way though.”

“No, it doesn’t….” Abruptly he drew his lightsabre as the door slid open.

Standing there, a little scorched, was Myrtirae. The bridge was a shambles, with at least a half dozen Corsairs slumped over.

“Well, I think I’ve earned my pay.”

“I think you have too,” Nantaris said, reaching out a hand.

“Stop. I know what you want to do.”

“And?”

“After this mission is done…” Myrtirae said. She whispered in his ear. “Who knows, boss, you might get more than you bargained for….”

“I always do,” Nantaris grumbled.

A quick search uncovered what he had sought; astrogation charts and transaction records.

“Is one of these the Captain?”

“No, I was hoping Captain Trant would be here…but he’s not.”

“Maybe Kaida’s dealing with him. Come on, let’s go find the iceberg.”

[member="Delila Castillon"]
Whilst Tegaea headed to the surface, the acting commander of the Ardarvia Commander Lawton took over communicating with the new arrival.
“Mining vessel Gaea, this is Commander Bella Lawton, do you copy? You are entering a Sanctum protected zone. Provide your identity or we will open fire.”

[member="Coci Heavenshield"] | [member="Coryth Elaris"]

Chesna was delighted by the reaction from both women. Coci looked like she wasn’t so innocent as she seemed, and Coryth was as delightfully easy to embarrass as normal.
A hand gently took Chesna’s right ear, holding the delicate tip firmly.
“Behave,” Tegaea said softly.
Chesna sighed. “Yes, Mistress,” she muttered. Tegaea could be so boring sometimes!

“No, nothing wrong…heard about another ship in the area. I’ve passed the message on to the others. We’ll go down now. The sooner the better.”

Leading them all on board they were soon set in motion. The first dropship they were all in headed down through the atmosphere. They could see the golden and brown desert cut by thin ribbons of green and blue from the rivers. They could see the vast sea, the concentrations of houses and walls forming cities.

As they came to settle down on the flat plain a few miles from the largest city. Tegaea called everyone into the communication room. There cameras showing the outside gave a great view of the plain.

“Master [member="Callista Gseran"], do you copy? We have landed at the following co-ordinates. What is your location?” Tegaea asked.

“Look, Mistress,” Chesna said softly.
Tegaea looked, and saw an army appear….

XXX

Through the dawn light the Shahbânu led her forces from the front. Her Yazgid sniffed the air warily as she prodded it forward.
With the rising sun coming ahead of them she turned and saw a blinding silver and gold emerge onto the plain behind her. This was no battle formation, but a means to intimidate and overawe. Rank upon rank of armoured spearers, light archers, heavy cavalry and more. Moving in perfect formation ten thousand warriors made the ground tremble beneath their feet.
Around the Shahbânu were her best warriors, loyal guards armed with the space weapons.

Now she could see her target, the great metal flying machine. For a moment she paused, fear flashing in her, but she pushed on regardless. She could not show any doubt or else her army would collapse. If this all went bad it would be how she reacted that would be key.

Soon she stopped a hundred yards from the dropship, her troops stretching over a mile frontage behind her. Riding forward a last few paces she took a deep breath.
“Who dares to enter the Empire of Amikaron without my leave?” she called. She was stunned that she sounded composed. However, she was visibly trying not to tremble at the anxiety of the moment. She knew if the space people wanted her dead there was little she could do, yet the anticipation of their reply was most terrible of all!

(Coci or Coryth can speak through Chesna in reply if desired.)

(5)

 

[Delila Castillon]

[member="Coci Heavenshield"] | [member="Coryth Elaris"] | [member="Valiens Nantaris"] | [member="Natol'ine"] | [member="Siobhan Kerrigan"]



The answer to their hail came rather quickly. Delila could not hear the hail at first, the crew having on headsets due to the general noise that was filtering in and out of the bridge. Murmuring went through the crew down in communications as they tried to figure out what a 'Kaeshana Federation' was. Navigation was consulted to scour a map.



"Whats the hold up? I can tell you have heard something." Delila made her way closer to the crew. "Let me hear..."


do you copy? You are entering a Sanctum protected zone. Provide your identity or we will open fire.”


"Real friendly folk out there.....Didn't anyone inform the Sanctum we were hunting down these bastards in our space lanes?" Delila sighed and rubbed her temple. This was going to be a long and trying day, she could already tell. "Open up a channel to these idiots"



"This is Reltooine Mining Corporation vessel Gaea, Captain Delila Castillon speaking. Unknown vessel, threats of hostility will get you nowhere, especially with us." Not knowing it was the Kaeshana Federation due to lack of information, she continued on. "You are hereby ordered to stand down, any other threats against us will constitute aggressive actions. Reltooine Mining Corporation has been authorized by Sanctum officials to take down any hostiles in this area, especially pirates and slavers."


"So tell me, what category do you fit into Unknown Vessel?"

 

[Kaida Taldir]

Post 6


[member="Delila Castillon"]
In space, aboard Valora's Blade, using NPC Eldorai

“Mining support vessel Gaea this is Firemane Industries and Technology CEO Tegaea Alcori. What brings you out here?” she asked suspiciously. It could be a trap to bring more pirates under a false flag. Already the Ardarvia was turning to face this new ship in case it was a threat.

No one would be allowed to land on the planet without authorisation. The situation down there was probably already tense enough and it would be terribly difficult to convince the locals that they came in peace. "This is Commander Lysette of the SQS Valora's Blade, to the Gae. State your intentions. This world is under the protection of the Kaeshana Confederation and the Sanctum. Confirm identity." Well, not quite yet really, but it sort of counted! What with them having crashed the corsairs' slave grab.

The Gae had been hailed by the Kaeshana Confederation battleship before, which had identified itself as such. Before that the Ardarvia had called them and identified itself as a Firemane frigate. One might keep in mind that the Valora's Blade was a heavy cruiser, with a contingent of bombers built to destroy capital ships. Given the fact that this was a very delicate first contact with extremely xenophobic natives, who so far had received only hostile contact with offworlders, the Eldorai were not inclined to be at their friendliest. However, to be fair, in a short span of time the Gae had been sort of bombarded with messages and this page was filled with wall of text posts, so being a bit cross was understandable!


In any case, aboard the Valora's Blade Commander Lysette resisted the urge to just open fire. While satisfying, it would probably make for bad diplomacy. "Idiot monkeighs, send the message again. If they try to land without authorisation, fire ion cannons."


The debris of one destroyed pirate corvette was floating around, while another had damaged and boarded. The pirate frigate was disabled and had been taken over by the Angelii. And so she hailed the mining ship again. The Eldorai officer was perhaps feeling a bit paranoid, but given how delicate the situation was, that could perhaps not be faulted. It was very likely Kaeshana was not well-known, Firemane was and their CEO had given the Gae a civilised call before.


"This is Commander Lysette of the Valora's Blade, Eldorai navy. Captain Castillon, you have walked into the middle of an ongoing operation. As your ship's scanners have no doubt noticed by now, we have wiped out the pirate fleet. We have been pursuing them since encountering the scum on Arkas. Likewise you have no doubt noticed that this is a heavy cruiser. The Eldorai navy and Firemane Industries have been authorised by the Levantine Sanctum to eradicate the pirate scum and initiate first contact with the natives of this world. We are here in cooperation with the Levantines. If you want to cooperate, I'd advise a less belligerent tone in a mutual desire to avoid unfortunate misunderstandings. Threats of hostility will only work in your disfavour. Your company's intent to arrive in this system was not communicated to us. Omega Exarch [member="Coryth Elaris"] and Firemane CEO Countess Alcori are in command of our task force."


[member="Natol'ine"], [member="Valiens Nantaris"]
In space, aboard pirate frigate, using Kaida



Meanwhile on the pirate frigate, the pirates who were so brutally battering Nato suddenly found their movements arrested when they were swept up by a wind and gripped by an invisible force. Then they were simply crashes against one another, causing a loud, sickening sound. CRACK Well, that broke bones and the pirates tumbled to the ground.


One, the pirate who had been kicking Nato, reached for his blaster, but suddenly found himself experiencing most unbearable agony when all the liquid in his brain suddenly...froze. Probably a quicker death than he deserved, compared to say freezing his blood, but it was most painful. Kaida slumped to the ground, evidently under strain and in a good deal of pain, before walking over to Nato. A blood-splattered, frost-covered, gauntleted hand gripped the girl and pulled her up, giving her a one-over.


"You did good work. Get a medic to patch you up," she said simply, waving one of the healers over to help Natol'ine. The pirates had been routed. Most of them had already died in the hangar fight, the rest had been moped by now. Those that had survived and been captured would not be treated gently. After all, Angelii were a lot more grey than light sided.


"Seraph, we've found the slaves!" one of her Host Leaders called out and Kaida turned, finding that the vanguard of the Angelii had reached the prison cells. Quickly the controls to their cells were overridden and the terrified slaves helped out after their shackles had been removed. They resembled Eldorai, but were much more tanned than their cousins from Kaeshana, almost bronze, with dark hair and eyes. Most of them bore the signs and scars of physical abuse.


"Get them out and bring them to the dropships. Make sure our healers are ready," Kaida ordered then contacted the Blade. "Blade Actual, this is Taldir. We've taken the frigate, proceeding to evac. Has contact been established with the natives? What? Oh, fine, I will direct this personally. Patch me through, and keep your fingers off the trigger till I say otherwise," she said frostily, muttering a few Eldarai curses. A moment later Delila would suddenly get a call from her old buddy. "Dells, it's Kaida. If you're looking for pirates, we just ended them."

 

[Callista Gseran]

[member="Valiens Nantaris"] [member="Coci Heavenshield"] [member="Coryth Elaris"]

Location: Tygara Suface
Post: 3/20

With her ship secured, Callista had moved off into the forest. She'd opted for the gear Shule had given her months ago, as it allowed for more stealth and freedom of movement than her standard robes. She really wasn't sure what to expect from the natives. But, she was sensing a watchfulness.... wariness, and yet, a strange eagerness coming from the direction of the settlement she had seen from above. Now though, she found herself dwarfed by the native trees, and she expanded her senses a bit to try and guide herself with the Force.

It was as she was making her way through the forest that her comm warbled softly. Hissing a curse, she quickly silenced it before lifting the device to her lips. It was a compact wrist-mounted model which was well suited to combat or exploration missions. "Tegaea, this is Master Gseran...." she reached out a bit more with the Force, a smile touching her lips for a moment. "I'm about ... one kilometer south of your position...." She trailed off slightly as she began to sense the meassed host of Tygaran warriors between herself and the others. "It.. seems.. that we have quite a large number of ...visitors between your position and mine. Would you like me to try and rendezvous, or do something else..?"

As she spoke, Callista carefully began to move off to the east, hoping to skirt around the Tygaran forces. Given what little she'd sensed from the massed army, she knew they didn't pose that much of a threat on an individual basis. But massed as they were, they could easily overwhelm her if they caught her alone. She moved quickly, keeping her presence as closed off as she could, while using a tendril of Force to guide herself in the direction of the others.

She wasn't as careful as she could have been, and under her right foot, she heard a small branch snap. Instantly, she froze, her gaze tracking towards where she sensed the Tygaran forces to be. Would their leader send out a party to investigate? Would she have time to sneak away? Reaching down, she thumbed her comm to the silent setting, and inserted a small earpiece into her ear. At least then it wouldn't be as obvious.

[[Cue a scouting party if you like.... ]]

 

[Glade]

Stars, head rush, noooo ouch, she slid her way up, gripping Kaida’s hand, rubbing her head and blinking, “no biggy,” woah, she steadied herself, ears ringing. She was tired out, for all her spirit she was a padawan, her back really hurt and her head was fuzzy. Come on Nato!

“Yep gotta just… healin’” Healing sounded nice, one hand on her back, the other took her off toward wherever Kaida's medic was, at a gingerly pace, ow ow ow, clenching her teeth. She wasn’t the only one, several people were being patched up. She wondered how [member="Kaida Taldir"] did it, she must have been really hurtin’, but that was a quick wonder because as soon as she lay down, and felt something cold on her face, she closed her eyes and zonked out.

A few minutes passed, Kaida’s medic had given her treatment for her fuzzy head, her back was killing her. But who cares, because when she opened her eyes, she saw all these freed slaves about, and beamed a smile, her back didn’t hurt so bad, not when she was a part of this! Pawing at whatever was over her face, a medic slapped her hand away.

“That’s going to have to stay for a day or two.”

“But I can’t see!” She could but only one eye, what was she going to be eyepatch girl now?

“That’ll go away in a few days, maybe a week”

Grr a week, “Sure thing, yep, ain’t no big deal” So up she bounced, bouncing as much as someone with a sore spot in her back, and a jaw come eye strap could, she was young she would be okay, she’d heal, yep, maybe, please. Stupid pirates!

“Soooo Hey,” she sauntered her usual Nato walk over to the first freed slave, then another, then another, before long she had a small gathering being pulled along by one overly enthusiastic young girl, “come on, we all need clean clothes!” Whether her small group of freed slaves wanted it or not, they were getting part of her wardrobe, and whatever food Sio had made her pack, she was on a diet again anyway. Just nobody tell Siobhan.

[member="Kaida Taldir"]

(6)

 

[Delila Castillon]

[member="Kaida Taldir"]



Delila immediately rolled her eyes when she heard 'Eldorai'. No doubt the little space witches had looked her up in some database and found that she had punched some old lady space elf, a fancy important one to boot. That could only explain part of the hostility. The other half stemmed from the fact the elves thought they were above all else in the Galaxy. There was no need to play into the hands of the space elves.


"Fine. Saves me from wasting valuable weapon stores. Valora's Blade, Captain Castillon out."


The transmission ended and many pairs of eyes trained on her. Questioning. Clearly that was not a normal display.


"Space elves-Eldorai, I've dealt with them before. I've also dealt with Firemane before. Militant lesbians. Probably turning the world into a women's only resort. Either way....we'll inform RMC of the developments and let legal deal with the lot of them.....Start setting another course, relay back our progress to headquarters...."


"Captain Castillon, transmission incoming..."


Before she could say 'no,lets not take it', Kaida's voice had reached her. At least this was a more friendly and reasonable voice.


"Kaida, it was been too long. What can I do for you?"

 

[Coci Heavenshield]

[SIZE=12pt]“Coryth it is. As long as you call me Coci”,[/SIZE][SIZE=12pt] she replied with a smile, Coci is not one for standing on ceremony or rank it is just too tedious to do so. But further discourse would have to wait as an interruption of a grand kind was suddenly revealed to them all. The translator, Chesna spoke up and indicated through the viewing window. Before then not only stretched the flat plains on which the drop ship had landed but a vast army. [/SIZE]

[SIZE=12pt]Coci moved closer to get a better look, for as far as she could see stood armoured man and women, with all manner of weapons and shields, “Well this looks familiar”, she said out loud recalling her day on the field of battle on Midvinter. However, that day Coci stood with Thurion and his father and an army of Valkyri behind them in the taking of Midvinter. A flippant comment to Tegaea, “May I strongly suggest you keep the engines running”, she turned and smiled to Lady Alcori. [/SIZE]

[SIZE=12pt]“Shall we?”,[/SIZE][SIZE=12pt] she asked the delegation and moved toward the ramp to begin talks. As the ramp lowered, Coci heard the first words from the leader, Shahbánu Semiramis. “Let’s remain close to the ship, just in case we need to hoof it back quickly”. [/SIZE]

“Who dares to enter the Empire of Amikaron without my leave?”

[SIZE=12pt]That’s our cue[/SIZE][SIZE=12pt], and I am so glad [member="Thurion Heavenshield"] is not here to see this, she thought looking over the thousands of faces looking back at her, Keep out of trouble, keep out of trouble, she repeated to herself, thinking of him and as if he would not feel it through their powerful force bond. Taking in a deep breath.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=12pt]“Esteemed Leader of Tygara, Shahbánu Semiramis. I am Coci Heavenshield, one of the representatives of Levantine Sanctum. We come in peace”,[/SIZE][SIZE=12pt] she began with her arms opened before her, hoping the translator was close at hand.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=12pt]“We humbly request an audience with Your Grace, in the hope of building a friendship and alliance with yourself and Tygara and the leaders of Levantine Sanctum”.[/SIZE][SIZE=12pt] Coci would wait to see if Coryth wished to add an opening introduction and for the translator. [/SIZE]

[SIZE=12pt](6)[/SIZE]

[SIZE=12pt][member="Delila Castillon"] [member="Natol'ine"] [member="Callista Gseran"] [member="Kaida Taldir"] [member="Valiens Nantaris"] [member="Coryth Elaris"] [/SIZE]

 

[Coryth Elaris]

"Of course, Coci." Happy to have someone else who didn't much care for the formalities that life bound to them.

Her eyes drifted as Chensa spoke, looking out to the plains and the forces that stood out there. "Definitely keep the engines running." Please don't be trouble dressed in the form of a good thousand plus soldiers. I so don't want THAT kind of day.

In this moment, this instance Coryth realized she should have paid a lot more attention in her diplomacy classes as a young Jedi. Too late now.... The thought wasn't going to get her far she knew. She just hoped they could avoid any incidents and all would go well.She needed it to go well. Many depended on this encounter and everything working out.

Though she did reach to her comlink, "Seraph Taldir, could you please bring the slaves to the surface to us? I have a feeling we'll need them as a gesture of goodwill."

Stepping down the ramp slowly, the tiny redhead took a deep breath in, trying to compose herself. Keep it together... All will be fine. Her eyes moved to Chesna, after Coci had spoken, "I am Coryth Elaris coming from the Great Matriarchy of Kaeshana, representing the Protectorate and Levantine Sanctum. We seek friendship and peace. We've wiped out the corsairs, and are here to return those taken as slaves to you as a gesture of our goodwill and good intentions."

​

[member="Coci Heavenshield"] | [member="Valiens Nantaris"] | [member="Callista Gseran"] | [member="Kaida Taldir"]​

​

(5)

 

[Valiens Nantaris]

[member="Natol'ine"] | [member="Kaida Taldir"] | [member="Delila Castillon"]


By the time Nantaris and his gang had reached Kaida any fighting was over. After inspecting the carnage, he nodded approvingly.
Pointing to the body of the man who had been kicking Natol’ine, he smirked.
“Guess he had a brain freeze, eh?” he joked.
“That’s Captain Trant. Good riddance,” Myrtirae said, spitting on the corpse.
“Right. Now, Kaida if you want to head down to the surface I’ll stay up here and supervise loading the prisoners onto your ship, then join you. Oh, and was that Delila Castillon you were talking to? I can deal with her.”
Patching into the conversation without bothering to get permission he put on his best ‘cheerful’ voice. It always annoyed the human redhead.
“Well, well, Ms Delila. Another job, huh? What brings you to this little backwater? My good friend Kaida and I have taken care of these slavers, and we’re sending the unfortunate captives back to the surface with their family, or back home if they’re not from here. If you want the scrap from the wrecked pirate corvettes I’m sure that’s allowed.”
Behind Nantaris’ back, Scindia just shrugged at Kaida. “Are you heading down to the surface now?” he asked politely.

[member="Callista Gseran"]

Where Callista had landed and was approaching from lay an idyllic oasis created by irrigation. The tall trees were of a peculiar type native to Tygara where the trees were grown tall as it was the bark which was stripped off and ground up as a surprisingly tasty dish.
The Amikarese army was mainly arrayed on the plain, but detachments had been sent to cover all directions.
As the Jedi Master’s foot broke the twig, the ten woman infantry squad heard the noise.
Their leader, an NCO of some sort ordered two of her soldiers to investigate. These soldiers moved forward with spear and shield at the ready.
They called out a challenge which Callista would not understand unless she could use the Force to translate like Chesna could.
They came warily closer and closer, looking for an intruder….

[member="Coryth Elaris"] | [member="Coci Heavenshield"]

As the metal beast had opened Semiramis had tensed. Her general, Ardashir, had ridden up beside her. All along the line archers had their bows and arrows ready but now drawn. In her guard unit those with blasters had them aimed uncertainly.
Emerging from the craft though was not what Semiramis had expected. Three females. One of them looked very much like a Vashyada, though slighter of build. The other two were of the same species as the slavers from the sky, however neither was physically imposing. One was short, with red hair, the other, taller, was pregnant.
No one else had emerged from the craft. Semiramis made a decision.
“I will talk with them. Bashiyra, come with me….”
“Majesty, is it wise to…” Ardashir said softly.
“Possibly not. But if anything happens to me, avenge me, but do not let them use me as a hostage. We cannot fight these people, and if they will negotiate perhaps we can deal with them.”
“As you command, Majesty,” the General said unhappily.

Semiramis dismounted and walked forward. She had her sword sheathed at her side, but no other weapons. At her side was her servant Bashiyra who was completely unarmed.
She approached, wondering how she would communicate when the Vashyada started speaking in perfect Zandri, the language of this region of Amikaron, correct even to the accent. It was…intruiging.
However, the Vashyada was only translating, and would presumably would do the same in reverse.
To the pregnant female with the dark hair she listened first. She nodded politely at the words. Courtesy was never wasted in such a situation as this, where even one wrong word might spark a massacre. She was not quite sure what a ‘Levantine Sanctum’ was, but it sounded like the nation where these sky people were from.
Next the shorter redheaded of the same race. Another mention of this Sanctum, but also mention of other places and people she knew nothing of. She too said she had come in peace, and that she had destroyed more of the invaders.
“Lady Heavenshield, Lady Elaris, I welcome you to Amikaron. It seems you are well informed on matters here. You say you have defeated these Corsairs and will return their captives to us? That would greatly show your sincerity for peace,” she said with a bow.
Ever the politician she wondered what exactly their angle was. She had no idea how many stars in the sky had people living on them, or whether this was common practice.
“I am grateful you come to parley in good faith. These Corsairs we both oppose came to enslave and destroy my people.”
She chose her next words with care. “However, whilst I do not doubt the nobility of such an offer, I can only assume you wish some reward for this action?” she asked, searching their faces for any hint.

XXX

Tegaea had stayed on board, ready to bail her friends out if needed. At a moment’s notice she could throw the ship forward into the air, putting its armoured bulk between the Jedi and the army. At the moment though it didn’t seem to be necessary.
As she watched the young ruler of the army facing them her mind again turned to the unvirtuous path. Had she ill intent it would be easy to attack, grab the woman and drag her aboard, then use her to force the natives to concede or risk destruction. The old Cajamarca scheme.
She felt her hands tightening, and willed herself to relax. The Qadiri were fortunate, neither she nor the Jedi would do such a thing. She just hoped the Jedi were as good negotiators as they were reputed to be!

(6)

 

[Kaida Taldir]

Post 7
Location: Space, aboard pirate frigate, heading down to planet
Objectives: Diplomacy, return slaves, make sure the Qadiri play nice (and get pwned if they don't).
[member="Delila Castillon"], [member="Coryth Elaris"], [member="Valiens Nantaris"], [member="Natol'ine"]



"Not at present. We should catch up some time with beers. Congratulations on your new job," Kaida spoke into the comm. Dells was not a particularly pleasant person to deal with, but the frost elf still did not mind her much. Maybe because they liked to punch the same people and hated a certain Countess. However, before they could have more small talk Kaida got another call and found that her girlfriend wanted to order her around again.


But then Kaida really did not mind that part. She liked obeying orders after all and was all about proper military protocol! Of course things were...very different when they were in private. However, upon hearing the transmission she quickly turned serious. "I'd talk more, but I'm needed planetside." Then she cut the connection to the mining ship. Her response to Coryth was concise and to the point. "Yes, Exarch," that was spoken formally. Meanwhile Nantaris the scruffy Scotchman had decided to barge in without permission. Typical manling. Kaida would have felt a bit annoyed, but a certain short stack of fire had preempted that by ordering her around.


"I'll be taking the slaves planetside," she said laconically in response to Scindia. Across time and space, that fellow seemed to be Nantaris' companion, except in the Asur universe where he was his nemesis. So far all other Scindias had died. Hopefully this one would be able to avoid the trend and actually survive. "You can down come if you're up for it," she spoke to Natol'ine. After having seen her combat prowess she considered the girl sort of alright.


In any case she made her way back to the hangar, with her Angelii escorting the captives and in some cases helping them walk. However, before she boarded a dropship Kaida made a call to Tegaea's ship that was monitoring the situation on the planet. With word being received about the massive army that was on the planet, she gestured impatiently to one of the Host Leaders.


"Get the slaves inton dropships. We're heading down to the planet. And comm the Blade. I want a flight of Silaqui-Class Gunships armed with cluster bombs on standby. And a dropship with Mag'ladroth walkers. Just in case." They were not here on a mission of conquest, but she was not taking any chances.


Best be prepared with overwhelmning firepower sufficient to shock and awe any army down on the ground if need be. If the natives played nice and did not try to attack the two Jedi because they wanted to take them as slaves or something like that, all would be well. If things turned ill and the Jedi proved less capable diplomats than hoped, the army would perish in a firestorm. She past the countless corpses of pirates and wreckage that lined the hangar and boarded the dropship the freed slaves were being led into. In any case the Silaqui-class dropships would soon take off and break through the planet's atmosphere, heading towards the specified coordinates. Then again, a big army was sort of hard to miss.

 

[Glade]

To [member="Valiens Nantaris"], Natol’ine flashed a beaming friendly Nato-smile, half smile, given half her face had a great big white patch on it. She waved, not having seen him or any of them before, brain freeze! Good!. “Heya,” tidying up her hair, got to look presentable! Small compared to most of them, she was soon chatting with one of the newcomers about Nexu, and their mutual dislike of all things furry that were bigger than your hand.

[member="Kaida Taldir"] Up for it? Take more than a little eye patch and a ringing headache to stop her excitement of seeing a new planet! “Yep!” Natol’ine called out with a slightly restrained smile, given her sore face, but excited all the same.

Gaggle of freed slaves mulling around, she was back off with them to her quarters. A small detour... ferrying with the worse injured and needy back the Valora's Blade, assisting their wounds where she could, holding their hands, giving them a smile, telling them it wasn't so bad, whatever it took really. They were strong soldiers, but she liked to think she made a difference to a few. The few slaves with her helped too, keen to show their appreciation for their rescue to the brave Eldorai that made it possible.

Nato's Quarters - Valora's Blade

Only about four or five came with her, on the promise of yummy delights that Sio’s serving girls had made, not as nice as her serving girls Nato smirkled, half smiled half smirking, but yum. She was soon there throwing clothes out of her wardrobe and piling them up for each slave. Yeah yeah, another excuse to go shopping! After emptying out her pack of food, wasn’t a lot, but for them they'd not eaten well in days, perhaps a lot longer, so they were wolfing down anything she gave them. “Umm… that’s all I have.” HUG! Getting a huge mini wrap around hug from one of the slaves, a small blue twi’lek girl named Tadi’ette, an incredibly nervous girl but she clung to Nato so hard it was like being wrapped up in three sheets of bedding with someone sitting on you!

Smiling, surprised but happy for a much needed hug, being around all these serious soliders all day! Off they made their way to their transports, but not before she’d found a small lavender face veil to cover up her eyepatch, and put on her galaxy flared skirt, one piece dress. Straps over her shoulders, the purple, violet and blue star pattern was nothing if not dramatic. If she was walking around with a ugly big thing over her eye, she wanted people looking at her dress! Was it a good idea taking off her armor, hmmm, maybe.

Her small group managed to catch the last dropship, and would make their way to [member="Kaida Taldir"] a bit behind, spirit only a bit bumped and bruised, she just hoped she didn’t walk into any doors, or fall over. Walking was tricky with one eye!

[member="Kaida Taldir"] | [member="Valiens Nantaris"]​

(7)​