Faction Frontier Liberation: The Ultimatum || The Confederacy

[Vemric Keldra]

FRONTIER LIBERATION: THE ULTIMATUM​

THEME​

The gala had ended in utter disaster when a failed assassination attempt resulted in a series of explosions that left numerous Confederate delegates and planetary representatives either killed or injured. Most troublesome of these casualties were the deaths of several representatives from R-Duba.

After a captive from the unknown attackers was interrogated, it was discovered that a group of religious insurgents known as the ‘Maelstrom Brotherhood’ saw the Confederacy as a threat to the planet of R-Duba and attempted to assassinate key figures in hopes of toppling the growing state.

Coupled with a recent transmission from the government of R-Duba condemning the Confederacy over the lives of their planetary representatives, chances of cooperation between the two governments have all but collapsed, leaving no official chance for the Confederacy to retaliate against this group of insurgents.

While an emergency parliamentary meeting was called to determine the next official course of action, a special operations group was secretly sent on an expedition to track down and attempt to eliminate the Maelstrom Brotherhood, unbeknownst to the government or populace of R-Duba…

While a Corvette drifts just outside of scanner range, a company of special forces is deployed via a civilian freighter to the Kandiira region of R-Duba’s northern hemisphere, where a Brotherhood base is supposedly located inside of an unassuming farming town. Support in the form of overwatch and a plethora of equipment and vehicles are given for the company to accomplish the mission.

Above all else, discretion is key. The locals can not find out about the operation and troops can not be tied to the Confederacy. The reach of the Maelstrom Brotherhood is unknown as of yet, and the locals are suspected to be armed and capable of defending themselves. Extreme caution is advised.

A recent broadcast from the Maelstrom Brotherhood was spread and circulated throughout multiple channels in Confederate space, throwing any chance at secrecy or subtlety to the wind. An emergency parliamentary meeting has been called to assess the broadcast and decide the best approach forward with the resource-rich and admittedly advanced planet so close to Confederate borders.

Rumours of war and a supposed “black ops” mission has already sprung up, with the populace wanting to know the meaning of the broadcast and what the immediate future entails.

You know what’s up.​

Thank you Jas Katis for the thread and Hester Shedo for the music

 

[Lea Vi]

GUNNER
PARLIAMENT | ROTHANA
TAG: Open

COPPERHEAD ROAD​

Well that had been some introduction to the Confederacy.

Koboh had only just joined the conglomerate as an independent system when the broadcast interrupted the evening news. To Lea, it was a moment of internal panic when the Saloon had gone completely quiet following the masked figure's hacked broadcast. They stared at the overhead screen for a minute while the news network struggled to regain the air before all eyes turned to their Nautolan governor.

But her panic had only lasted a second before lightning flashed in her onyx eyes.

She'd be damned if anyone messed with the planet she was now responsible for.

Now she was here, braving the constant winter of Rothana, to get assurance that the R-Duba freak had the Gorger by the tail. To say that she looked out of place among other representatives and ambassadors, would be an understatement. Lea had never been one to dress up. It wasn't practical on Koboh and its harsh terrain. So she didn't dress up for this either, she only bothered with an extra winter poncho that complimented her ever-present wide-brimmed hat nicely. She did scowl, however, when she had to leave her ever-present pistols with her pilot for safekeeping.

"Ya think this'll be over in an hour, being an emergency 'n all, Tee?" she quietly asked the protocol droid at her side as they took their seats.
"It depends on how long the debates last, Miss Vi." the feminine voice answered in an equally hushed tone.
"It better be worth all this drama. We got a lot of work back home." the Nautolan scowled.
"This is quite important, Miss Vi. We were all threatened with war if the Confederacy doesn't withdraw from R-Duba. I just hope others here feel as passionately about their planets as you do." said Tee with just a hint of exasperation at her master's one track mind in her voice.

Lea's dark eyes swept across the room to see who her peers were. She was fairly new at this diplomacy thing, having barely been elected. She'd always been better with a gun than words. Words didn't solve the plethora of issues on Koboh - the wildlife especially. But as long as she can say enough to get the planet back on track after her predecessor ran it into the ground, then she'll fit in well enough. She did care about the folks back home. Their wellbeing was her priority, not cozying up to pretenders.

But Tee was right - she'll have to play nice.

So she'll try and do that - it's not like she can shoot someone in here.

 

[Jas Katis]

R-DUBA | DESERT
THE CONFEDERACY | HELLION PRIVATE MILITARY GROUP
ALLIES: TC
ENEMIES: MB
ENGAGING: N/A
GEAR: In bio | unit equipment

THE COUP​

Jas laid atop a dune with macrobinoculars against his eyes, carefully scanning the town far into the distance. The scorching heat and sand blasting against his face barely bothered him, instead he relished it as if greeting an old friend. No matter how many years passed since he left the Empire and the Order, he would always long for the warmth and familiar winds of his homeworld.

At least for the moment, nothing seemed to be out of the ordinary. Farmers moved in and out and people went about their business. If the Brotherhood was present, they were going to need to investigate at a closer range.

He stashed his binoculars away and slid his helmet on, before adjusting his poncho and head wraps. Rather elegantly, he slid down the dune and walked back to the freighter, where most of the company was prepping for their mission. Others were on scouting duty, or simply surveying the area. They wouldn’t be too far. ”Everyone done building sand castles?” He called out to the troops with his hands on his hips.

”I hope I don’t need to remind anyone that discretion is key with this mission.” He continued, resting his hands on a crate serving as a command table for the moment.

Luckily most of their surveillance of the town was done by some probe droids at a distance, including the layout and potential key points in and around it. The biggest issue was for them to enter the town without raising any alarms that could scare the Brotherhood. He spared a glance back at the hologram of the town slowly rotating in front of him.

 

[Devros Hoxton]

___________________________________________________________________________

[Theme]​

Devros Hoxton

| Location | Desert, R-Duba​

| Objective | Locate and Neutralize Hostiles​

​

Hoxton grumbled from beneath his helmet under R-Duba's sweltering sun, trudging through the sandy dunes alongside the rest of the Helion mercenaries tasked with locating and handling the supposed base hidden in the middle of the desert. Even through his suit, he could still feel the heat beating down on him as he growled quietly. ​

​

"Everyone done building sand castles?"​

​

Jas Katis was returning from scoping out the point of interest as Hoxton grumbled,​

​

"Couldn't these fockin' muppets have picked a nicer planet to set up in? A nice sunny beach by the ocean perhaps and not in the middle of bumfock nowhere where it's just hot as shite?"​

​

"I hope I don't need to remind anyone that discretion is key with this mission." ​

​

A few in the company paused and turned to look over at Hoxton who was occupying himself by inspecting his shotgun, glancing up briefly to catch a few of them staring over at him and then turned to see a corporal also staring directly at him. ​

​

"The fock you all lookin' at me for...?"​

​

He furrowed his brow from beneath his helmet, cradling his shotgun under one arm as he raised the other to feign about to slap the corporal. The corporal instinctively flinched knowing that Hoxton's slaps were not to be taken lightly before everyone looked away quickly to avoid getting slapped by the sergeant.​

​

"Fockin' wankers..."​

​

___________________________________________________________________________
​

 

[Takeshi Ryu]

Tag: Jas Katis Devros Hoxton

Beneath his cloak, Takeshi checked his pistol to make sure sand here didn't mess with it. Holstering it he next inspected his rifle. Aiming down the sights to the distance ahead Ryu glared through the visor. This was personal. Like Jas he had been there at the conference when these Brotherhood scum attacked them. They murdered many including a number of his brothers and sisters in arms.

Even his planet's envoy had been grievously wounded. Sure he was intimidated by her but she didn't deserve what was done to her. In his culture an attack on an official of the Tao agency was considered an attack against its people.

He overheard his CO's words and stopped to look in his direction. Honestly Takeshi wished they would storm in already but orders are orders. Briefly he turned to Sergeant Hoxton as the latter lashed out in annoyance at the others for looking at him and his shotgun. His focus returned to the CO and clearing his throat, Takeshi asked.

"Commander, are we to take prisoners or kill all those sand eating cultists."

Anyone within hearing range can tell by the trooper's tone he preferred the latter.

 

[Rissk]

R-Duba
Middle of Nowhere
- Jas Katis - Devros Hoxton - Takeshi Ryu - Open -
​

When trying not to be ID'd as a squad of soldiers, it paid having a non-soldier in the group.

Of course, there was a downside to being that non-soldier. Rissk was a bounty hunter in the middle of a bunch of soldiers. Mercenaries they may be, but Hellion was as soldier as mercenaries came. And that meant, in the oddest way, he was alone. Grief, anger, loyalty connected the rest of the warriors huddled between the sandy dunes. He was here for the money, for the reputation.

The only thing he would share in common with them was the direction they were pointing their blasters.

So, he stayed towards the edge of the encampment, cleaning sand out of his weapons for the third time that day. Bird, his juvenile... uh... dog-sized parrot-monster-thing, waddled around him impatiently, constantly opening his mouth for treats. Rissk ignored him for now, as he checked his gear, and constantly kept his head on a swivel, watching the environment and Confederate soldiers with equal care.

Of course, he recognized a few of them. Commander Katis had been the one to pick his resume for the last job. He also saw the fellow greenhorn he'd went into the building with, and had helped him earn a repeat invitation. Rissk had given him a toothy smile and a nod of thanks. And that one guy's shotgun? Rissk had managed to get a close look, and practically salivated.

But he didn't kid himself. He was here to continue to prove himself, so he could get a third invitation. Then a fourth, then a fifth...

Until he was the best in the galaxy.

 

[Xazzex Xivar]

PARLIAMENT | ROTHANA​

With The Broadcast heard far and wide, it was unavoidable to make a public announcement of some kind. To remain silent would only cause murmurs of uncertainty and doubt to grow, no matter what action might be occuring behind the scenes. In light of their assembly being relatively young, this was an opportunity to gather the worlds and invite them into the decision making progress. To demonstrate that they held some power in the fate of the union they'd joined -- they weren't merely propaganda mouthpieces. Unless a particular world's representative allowed themselves to be nothing but a puppet, of course.

A single gong heralded Vice-Head and Speaker Xazzex Xivar's entrance into the chamber. The emerald green woman with a Falleen's customary pronounced ridges and with her golden eyes strode into the room unaccompanied. The fists at her side swung in rhythm with her gait, which brokered no platitudes or meanderings. Her dark lips were pressed together as she made straight for the podium to preside over the coming, emergency session of parliament. Thus was her duty. Thus was her charge.

After she ascended to the Speaker's podium, Xazzex took a single moment to check the displays laid out before her before her hand struck a gavel. "Order, Order in the chamber, Representatives." Despite the lack of begging for people to take thier seats, the Falleen's voice lacked any scorn or demand. They had come here for a purpose, she expected them to conduct themselves appropriately so they could get on with the business at hand. No doubt they would do well in that regard.

"We, here, are gathered in the face of a threat not just to R-Duba, or any other world that stands with us or with ambition to seek membership, but to us all." Xazzex's golden eyes scanned the faces of those assembled slowly as she spoke. It was important to watch for reactions that signaled approval, but also signs of someone's confidence wavering. "These nameless, faceless cowards that claim to follow Osyron do not only threaten the prosperity and safety of those of R-Duba. They claim this Confederacy has spilled the blood of their number," Xazzex slammed a hand down on the podium, "then where is the proof? They skulk in the shadows and make demands so that they may wrest control of the planet away from its people for their own, selfish gain! They make unfounded accusations in a desperate bid for legitimacy! They issue threats without contacting this Confederacy and demonstrating a single, solitary wrong, nor a reasonable, judicial penalty if a single claim held even the smallest truth! They are a blight." The Speaker leaned forward as she raised her voice, "They are terrorists! There can be no other name for them. And they would not stop at R-Duba if we let them."

Xazzex stood up straight again with a nod. "Representatives, you have been called here, today, to discuss what you have heard and together to formulate how this Confederacy -- how we -- will respond not merely to this one, isolated instance, but to any that would dare take extra judicial action in an effort to usurp control of any member world. I ask of you, Representatives, to not forget R-Duba in our deliberations, but neither to think only of R-Duba in our response."

"I yield the floor to you Representatives that will help guide our alliance through such dark times."

Open | Lea Vi ​

 

[Jas Katis]

R-DUBA | DESERT
THE CONFEDERACY | HELLION PRIVATE MILITARY GROUP
ALLIES: Devros Hoxton | Rissk | Takeshi Ryu
ENEMIES: MB
ENGAGING: N/A
GEAR: In bio | unit equipment

THE COUP​

Hoxton’s complaints earned a chuckle from the Pureblood along with a shake of his head. ”Hox, you could whisper from Coruscant and we’d be able to hear you.” Jas quipped as he stepped away from the map. ”Remember, no markings or insignias. There’s also unaffiliated armour to shake things up. We’re not Hellions or CAF, we’re farmers, bounty hunters and whatever else you can think of.” He continued.

"Commander, are we to take prisoners or kill all those sand eating cultists."

Jas turned to look at Ryu with a mixture of thoughts on the question. Mostly surrounding the rookie’s tone than the actual question. This was personal for him, no doubt about it. ”Targets of convenience, Ryu. Neutralise and eliminate, but try to keep a few alive for questioning afterwards. We don’t know how widespread this group is or how popular they are. If we have a chance at rooting out the whole operation, we should capitalize on it.” He instructed. The last bit was the Pureblood’s biggest concern. Due to the political tension and secrecy of the Brotherhood, the team was effectively recon as well as first contact.

”We’ll be split up into two teams. Team One, you’re going on a hike. Scouts have noticed odd activity on a nearby mountain range, it could be a depot or a base for these insurgents. Team Two, you’ll be with me in the town. Rissk, you’re coming with me. You’ll be able to mingle easier with the locals. The rest of you, pick a team and fall in. We’re out in ten. The armoury’s open as well, so make sure you have everything you need.” He concluded his briefing and, with a few taps, sent the information to all the units from the command console.

Once everyone was ready, Jas waited for his team by a civilian speeder truck. He had adjusted his armour with a few components either swapped out or entirely removed to help with blending in. Soon they were moving out to enter the town. For Team One, an Assault Speeder was waiting for them to provide a lift to their destination.

While it appeared small at a distance, the town was bustling with activity with people either coming in or going out into the desert while a significant number were bustling around a market selling all manner of wares. Jas adjusted his poncho and head scarf, making sure to conceal his rifle underneath. With a few hand gestures, he instructed the team to fan out and investigate.

He spared a glance at Rissk before scanning the town further. ”You ever thought about joining the Hellions?” He asked him idly as he wandered the street. At what appeared to be the town center, a town crier was shouting away and drawing a steady crowd. With the commotion around them, he couldn’t exactly hear what the man had to say, however it seemed rather controversial if some of the reactions were any indication.

”See that?” He gestured to the spectacle as he began to move closer.

 

[Tarra Vos]

R-DUBA | MOUNTAINS | SCOUT | TEAM ONE​

Vos did not enjoy desert planets. When you entire existence was predicated on remaining absolutely silent and still for hours on end, doing it under a blazing sun buffeting by the finest particulate of silica... It was only because her suit had been built precisely for this purpose she didn't collapse from heat stroke wearing the purest black armor in the galaxy. Not that anyone around could appreciate the death-heralding aesthetics with the stealth field activated.

Leg cramps were a way of life for someone tasked with watching over a facility tucked out of sight. At least the main strike force had arrived and gotten the initial report. It'd be a while yet before they arrived, but soon there'd be more than just watching. Tarra wanted to get down there and unearth its secrets, but if they somehow compromised her field and became alerted before the Hellions were in position... as much shouting as she'd endured in her time from loud commanders, it would be best not to piss off the Supreme Commander by botching the scouting operation.

Why were they there? What about the sovereignty of R-Duba? Should they butcher these people like animals for trying to kill everyone on the station -- assuming the events were actually related? Whatever the Shadow Trooper's thoughts, she hadn't vocalized them nor so much as grunted in response to people discussing it in ear shot before they made planetfall. In the end, this was a mission, and a professional like her had been taught not to care about the motivation and agendas of any party involved -- she had her orders, she knew what the objectives were. All she had left to do was carry it out to completion. Simple.

Aside from the scorching sun and heat radiating off every stone and rock.

Open
Jas Katis | Devros Hoxton | Rissk | Takeshi Ryu​

 

[Tertius C. Nargath]

Tag: Xazzex Xivar | Vemric Keldra
Equipment/Entourage: [X] [X]
Location: Parliament; Rothana

It was an utter outrage, the summit at R-duba, which from the outset had been nothing more than a diplomatic event, a gathering in peace with the intention of forging strong bonds and open up trade relations and diplomatic connections in a relaxing and open environment, had turned into a catastrophe, not only for the Confederation, but for any who had been involved. To add injury to insult, the recent broadcast had most likely not only made it much harder for the Confederacy to engage in meaningful dialogue with R-Duba, but also enraged the corporate community which had been quite keen on seeing the Confederation expand its sphere of influence.

The N&Z Umbrella Corporation for one, was quite adamant on responding with equal meassure to those lawful ingrates that dared to not only harm potential clients and cooperative representatives, but also their very own chairman, who at the Gala had been severely wounded by the blast. Though others had unfortunately lost their lives, Tertius had been fortunate enough not to lose any limbs or even worse; his life. Yet, his left arm's ulna had been shattered by his fall, and the accompanying swelling of his muscles and the torn ligaments in his arm had not granted him a smooth return to his work or any of his other duties for that matter.

With his left arm in a sling, his newest outfit draped partially over his disabled arm, the man walked down the walkway of the shuttle which had transported himself and the Valkan guards flanking him, their pristine white and gold armor glistening as the guards marched in unison aside him. Where he had not bothered bringing in his security in most venues before, this time he would not allow himself to be hurt anymore than he already was. This time, he'd bring the might of Valkan with him.

Leaving his men outside of the central chambers of the parliament, though still bringing in his trusted Centurion; Livicus, the Marquis of Valkan looked at the one who was speaking; none other than the Speaker herself; the voice of the Confederacy and someone who has been the cause for a rather awkward moment Tertius hoped he'd forget all too soon. Still, as he listened to her bold and passionate speech, the strong wording and somewhat aggressive phrasing she utilised, all Tertius could do was nod and agree in silence. Yet, when she motioned for any of the representatives to speak up and share their thoughts, the Marquis of Valkan grunted as he cleared his throat and made himself clearly visible.

"Ladies and gentlemen, honored representatives of the Confederacy," Standing up and allowing Centurion Livicus to remove his jacket, showing his arm in a sling, the bandages under his shirt clearly also reaching up to his neck. Tertius wasn't going to waste the visual aspect of his current physical status. "Diplomats and representatives from R-Duba and representatives of this Confederacy have been greavously wounded or even killed by an unprovoked and brutal attack on a gala which stood for peaceful transition and negotiations. Men, women and those of unspecified gender have been callously and undeservingly ripped away from their loved ones by those who now act as if what they had done was an act against the Confederacy. They call for blood, but do not care whose blood would be staining their hands, all for a petty cause in which they blame the misfortune of their kin on the Confederacy, disregarding its difference and denounciation of the old ways."

Letting out a sigh, the chairman of the N&Z clenched his fist and raised it slightly in front of him, a balled fist to challenge the opposition, both visible and invisible. "This was an act of terrorism, of blatant bloodshed without cause or reason. Such acts of indiscriminate violence are used by thugs that have no laws or rules to follow and whose only purpose lies in chaos and anarchy. This act will not be the only one, if we allow these terrorists to roam free and without judgement. I implore you all to think about your loved ones and your family, remember that as long as such scum is not brought to heel and dragged down from their immoral stands in penitance, all of us could still be targeted by these reprobates!"

Suddenly swinging his right arm to the side, as if he tried to cut through the air, the Marquis of Valkan tilted his head slightly backwards, as if he were looking down on the representatives, as if he was here with a greater and glorious purpose. "As Madame Speaker has said, you are to decide on a motion with which the Confederacy will handle such acts not only in the present, but any and all indiscriminate acts of violence against the Confederacy and the ideals it represents. I implore you, you all who decide the future of the Confederacy, to act with decisiveness and strength. In times like these, the military apparatus should be utilized to its full potential."

 

[Danger Arceneau]

Location: Parliament; Rothana
Interacting with: Xazzex Xivar Tertius C. Nargath Vemric Keldra
| Dress x | x | x | x | x | x | X | X |

​

There was a simmering look in Danger's eye as she sat back, listening to the chatter and questions floating around the room. It was clear that this mess wasn't going to be solved with a round of cordial talks or over a fine dinner. Her lips pressed into a thin, knowing line; if there was one thing that got under her skin, it was senseless violence and folks who couldn't tell a warning from an invitation. Especially when that recklessness put innocent people at risk.

She wasn't the type to meddle with everyone else's business or to pick sides for sport, but when folk refused to see reason, well, that was when her patience wore thin. Sometimes, a lesson had to be taught -- a little nudge to make sure no one forgot the cost of disrupting peace. She didn't build that enclave of hers near a Sarlacc pit out in the Jundland Wastes for nothing, after all. Some lessons needed to be… nice and slow.

When the planetary and corporate representatives finally settled down, Danger gave a nod and raised her voice, a hint of steel behind her honeyed drawl.

"Now, I've dealt from one edge of this galaxy to the exos and into Otherspace itself. And what experience has taught me, time and again, is that this kind of aggression and reckless bloodshed, stirred up by extremist sorts, needs to be nipped right in the bud. Culled root and stem."

She gave a slow, deliberate look around the room, her green eyes gleaming.

"So I'm in full support of takin' action, and makin' examples of any group fool enough to threaten representatives and our mutual goals here. If they've already gone after us, they'd think nothin' of turnin' on civilians next. And that's somethin' I can't abide."

Danger let the weight of her words settle, her gaze calm but unwavering, like the steady hand of someone who knew the difference between show and substance. This was the Queen of Trade that had called for action when government entities in the past had decided to mess with hers, and she wasn't one to leave things idle.

 

[Rissk]

R-Duba
Town in the Middle of Nowhere
- Jas Katis - Devros Hoxton - Takeshi Ryu - Tarra Vos - Open -​

”You ever thought about joining the Hellions?”

Rissk blinked. Then blinked again.

He hadn't been that surprised when the commander had ordered the Trandoshan with his own squad. It was smart to keep an eye on the loose thread, to make sure he didn't try anything, or more likely, make a mistake that got his people killed. So Rissk had been expecting a 'don't mess this up' from the mercenary.

Not idle conversation. And certainly not... this.

The hunter masked his brief confusion by looking down at Bird. The creature was trotting along, doing his part in selling their aesthetic. Rissk and Jas looked like slapdash bounty hunters, here looking for work. Not slapdash bounty hunters, here on a job for a new interplanetary alliance.

"...Nah," he finally said. a bit of caution in his voice. "No offense, but... I've got my own rules for how I do things. You guysss are the real deal, for sure... but I gotta go my own way."

"If it's worth anything, though... I'm glad my way and the Hellion way is the same way, at least for a while. Your company is deadly, sir."

Before he could stew on his own answer for much longer, the mercenary pointed out a noise. Rissk squinted ahead, trying to make out the blur of people ahead. He couldn't parse the words either, but he could imagine it wouldn't be good.

"It'd be rude not to stop and listen." Rissk smiled that sibilant, predatory smile his species was so known for, and padded closer to the commotion.

 

[Takeshi Ryu]

Tag: Devros Hoxton Tarra Vos Jas Katis Rissk​

The rookie nodded in full acknowledgment. Takeshi did understand the need of prisoners for interrogation purposes. Of course the Supreme Commander didn't specify to spare most of these Brotherhood rats. Before joining the Hellions he had been a hostage of similar terrorists years before on Tao with fellow students. The young trooper never forgot how those zealots tormented him and his classmates and nearly murdered them all.

I'm not that helpless hostage beaten on the floor. Not anymore.

Regarding what objective to take, his mind was already made up. Takeshi glared toward the mountain in the distance. He was going with team one. Saluting those going with the boss to the town Ryu without hesitation headed for the armored speeder. He was the first to enter inside the speeder.

Without asking anyone Ryu mounted the turret and made sure the gun was ready.

Blood for blood, death for death.

 

[Devros Hoxton]

___________________________________________________________________________

[Theme]​

Devros Hoxton

| Location | Desert, R-Duba​

| Objective | Locate and Neutralize Hostiles​

​

"Hox, you could whisper from Coruscant and we'd be able to hear you."​

​

Hoxton held his arms out dejectedly, his hand gripping the barrel of his shotgun as he just threw his arms up in annoyance before muttering.​

​

"The fock did I do? I ain't even done anything. Yet..."​

​

Hoxton mumbled the last bit quietly to himself as he made his way over to the pile of armor and clothing. It was bad enough that it was hot as hell in his armor, but now he'd have to deal with the heat in this? He rested his shotgun against a crate as he took off his helmet, briefly revealing his badly burned and scarred face before he grabbed a length of cloth and quickly wrapped it around his head to conceal his face save for his eyes. He'd swap out his Hellion armor for brown colored armor pieces. By the time he was done he'd grab his shotgun and do quick inspection as he used a free hand to shield his eyes from the glaring sun. He glanced over to see Takeshi Ryu already mounting up the speeder before making his way over.​

​

"Guess I'm playing babysitter. I'll make sure the young un lives to fight another day."​

​

​

Jas Katis | Rissk | Tarra Vos​

___________________________________________________________________________
​

 

[Jas Katis]

R-DUBA | DESERT
THE CONFEDERACY | HELLION PRIVATE MILITARY GROUP
ALLIES: Devros Hoxton | Rissk | Takeshi Ryu | Tarra Vos
ENEMIES: MB
ENGAGING: N/A
GEAR: In bio | unit equipment

THE COUP​

Jas spared a quick glance at the Trandoshan, it was worth a shot at the end of the day. The young lizard was a hell of a fighter, but evidently he didn’t want to be a soldier. ”Fair enough.” He remarked with a hum. But pleasantries had to wait for the moment.

The group slowly closed the distance to the gathering, which seemed to pick up in intensity with how the crowd was reacting. ”I wish I spoke the language.” Jas remarked as he crossed his arms and leaned against a nearby wall. The ever growing group of people began to argue amongst each other while the speaker continued to shout away, fist in the air and all. While the others could probably not feel it, the Pureblood was noticing the rising tension in the Force. ”Something’s wrong here.” He remarked, carefully gripping his rifle under his poncho.

The crowd started to borderline assault one another while a few individuals tried to escort the speaker off his stage. After resisting and continuously fighting back, he drew a pistol and opened fire on the assailants. The shots lit a spark in the crowd, who completely descended into a frenzy. In the chaos, several people in the crowd tucked on armbands sporting the same emblem as the attackers on the space station. Shots started flying and civilians either scrambled or began to fire on each other, leaving the infiltrating troops in the middle of the altercation.

”This isn’t an insurgency, it’s a civil war.” Jas commented as he ducked for cover. He drew his rifle and scanned the area. :: All units, be advised, a skirmish has erupted in the town. :: He alerted over the comms.

While total chaos was brewing in the town, the mountain team’s speeder came to a halt to deposit the troops near their target area. Close enough to hike, but far enough to not draw attention to the insertion team. The speeder powered down and settled into the sand.

Sand gave way to rocks until finally a small goat path took shape, leading to a cave entrance against the mountain’s face. Two figures sat by the cave entrance, appearing to be herders or some other drifter, however the white armbands on their sleeves gave away their allegiance. Luckily for the insertion team, they seemed to be momentarily distracted by a commlink declaring something in their native tongue.

The rest of the cave was deceptively large, with tunnels sprawling into openings containing a myriad of equipment, supplies and troops. Deeper within, one could even find a vehicle depot featuring some exotic designs. This wasn’t some haphazardly made encampment, the walls were reinforced and the tunnels were ventilated against the harsh heat. Lights and signs indicated areas and directions, while cameras and sirens checked doorways and crucial points.

The troops within were well armed and equipped. It was well hidden, but the base was far from small and disorganised. Whatever message came over the commlink was also being played throughout the base itself, scrambling the inhabitants to gear up and get ready for something.

 

[Goran Nath]

Goran Nath
Parliament | Rothana
TAG: Danger Arceneau Xazzex Xivar Tertius C. Nargath Vemric Keldra

The call for the Parliament Assembly had come as no surprise to Goran. He had been on Roon when the broadcast went out, a broadcast many were already calling a bombshell to the Confederacy. Fearmongers, politicians of less subtle means and other power brokers had been quick to act on the news. Any opportunity for advancement and to prey on the concerns of the citizenry. The game was always the same. Even on Roon there had been talks and rumors of what the Confederacy might do, but Goran had made his position very clear.

Suffer not a single threat to exist.

Seated in the Parliament building, wearing a dark red jacket over black shirt and black pants, along with a red sash could just barely be seen beneath the jacket, the symbol the Roon Defense Front had made their own. He watched his peers talk. There was very little in the way of debate; everyone agreed that something had to be done. To allow a terrorist group to dictate policy to the Confederacy was a slippery slope. If they gave in, no other government would take them seriously. For the good of Roon, and the Confederacy as a whole, they had to make a clear statement, and not just posture.

He waited for the current speaker to finish before requesting the floor. Rising to his feet, he smoothed his jacket down, pulling on the bottom to adjust it, before turning his gaze slowly around the assembled Parliament. "Fellow representatives of the Confederacy," he began, his voice carefully directed to be easily heard across the room no matter which way he faced, "we indeed face dangerous times ahead. The dream of unity and prosperity that we all seek to bring to our worlds stands at risk, the flames of sedition and anarchy seeking to set the spirit of our nation alight."

Goran shook his head, folding his hands behind his back. "No matter what political party, we all agree we must act. The use of our military might against this group is justified, and dare I say, required. To allow someone to strike us without retaliation invites similar events in the future. Where I disagree with some of you though, is where we halt our counter attack. This group we face has proven that, despite the Confederacy not having full and direct control of their planet, we pose a risk. An existential threat that they could not ignore. No matter how we deal with this group, that same fear will ignite the passions of more worlds, more dissidents. To prevent similar attacks in the future, we cannot simply retaliate when we are attacked, but to defend our great nation, we must strike first."

Goran returned to his original position, nodding his head to several other members of the radical party near him in the Parliament. "I propose, after this threat we face is dealt with, that the Confederacy launch investigations across neighboring worlds for groups that might pose similar threats. Groups with the means, and if there world comes within our sphere of influence, the will to fight us. We must identify them, and for the good of every Confederate citizen, destroy them before they become a true threat. In doing this, we not only defend our constituents, but honor the memory of those lost in the cowardly attack at R-Duba, and prevent a similar event from happening again. Thank you."

Lowering himself back to his seat, he inclined his head to the speaker, signaling his secession of the floor to the next speaker.
​

 

[Phee Zti]

Tag: Vemric Keldra Xazzex Xivar Danger Arceneau Tertius C. Nargath Goran Nath​

Another figure, a Rodian in a purple Taoian kimono, stepped forward with guards on each side. She was admittedly late but arrived nonetheless. Wearing a medical patch on the right side of her head Phee Zti crossed her arms over the chest while listening. Her large dark eyes were now narrowed in a silent defiant glare. Since that gala Tao's envoy had been in and out of treatment.

The med droids and doctors say she was going to make a full recovery. Still Phee was incensed by what happened. Her good friend Soej was killed by those zealots and so were multiple citizens of Tao who suffered a similar fate or were wounded. As a representative of her homeworld the Rodian felt responsible for them. Yes she hadn't been in charge of security but they came to that event as part of her retinue.

Of course she also had been listening to the Brotherhood broadcast on repeat. The self-righteousness and sheer arrogance of them infuriated her. So they thought mass murder would solve their problems? Whether there was truth in their claims about exploitation was now irrelevant to Phee. They chose mass murder, voiding any chance of settlement not that she believed they ever wanted that.

Her masters on the council demanded action and she wholeheartedly agreed.

Clearing her throat and holding on the podium Phee Zti finally spoke.

"The regency of Tao fully supports all these measures. In fact our regency will be more than willing to provide aid in intelligence gathering against insurgent threats within reason. To add to my colleague of Roon I propose that any world that seeks to join the Confederacy or to establish ties with us should provide all available information on every hint of insurgent, pirate and smuggler activity in their systems. In the event they fail to do so, said world should be subject to penalties agreed by this parliament."

 

[Jae'koris]

​

Team One

Discretion is key. For a Ghost, discretion is the mission. Discretion is survival.

The groups split shortly after gathering. Jae'koris deduced she would be better off taking the mountain path. Her techsuit might attract some unwanted attention within the village. It wasn't hidden very well beneath her cloak and hood. She checked her weapons before trotting off with Team One. The hike was long, but it appeared safe up into the mountains at least. From what she could see.

Occasionally, light debris would come tumbling down the sides of the mountain. "From the wind, most likely." she whispered to herself. Luckily for the mountain team, the sun had just moved beyond the range, giving them some shade. As the team continued through, Jae'koris noticed something ahead. Her HUD alerted her to a structure in the distance. The others noticed as well.

"It looks like a warehouse. Tall fences all around. Checkpoint only way in or out. They're storing something in there. Could be weapons. Likely weapons." Jae'koris said briskly. "Suggest we find an alternate route inside. Or cause a distraction." she suggested. She left the situation open to suggestions, though, she did already have a plan of her own.

Tarra Vos ​

 

[Sentapoth Findos]

Danger Arceneau Phee Zti Goran Nath Vemric Keldra Xazzex Xivar Tertius C. Nargath

When it came to matters of considerable importance, it was always wiser to entrust the decision-making process to individuals possessing genuine authority and influence. Given that the Corporate Council was limited to a single vote, it was more advantageous for the Commanding Viceroy to delegate the responsibility to the governor of Abrion Major, allowing him to represent the interests of the Trade Federation at the emergency session.

Despite being granted such a huge responsibility, Sentapoth was incredibly nervous as he sat with Trade Federation Envoys in a secluded corner. All he could do was merely nod and listen as each corporate represenative and planetary governor made their opinions known, from the Queen of Trade Danger Arceneau to the Regent of Tao Phee Zti with the main prevailing opinion to conduct military action against the Brotherhood and launch investigations into neighboring systems.

He stood up from his chair unsteadily, his gaze going back and forth between the individuals present as the room descended into silence. With his hands ready to grasp the amplification device, a torrent of thoughts surged through his mind regarding his forthcoming remarks and the extent of his obligations to a planet that seemed to exist solely to enrich the resources of a trading empire.

"Th-Th-The...Governorship of Abrion Major is in-in support of military action against any threat to the Confederacy and its citizens. However, we must know the financial cost of launching such an offensive at a time when our government is getting more formerly established and trade agreements signed under the watchful eye of the Viceroy of Commerce." Sentapoth explained with several hand gestures to soothe his anxiety, seeking to understand the financial implications that a campaign against the brotherhood would impose on the newly established government.

 

[Xazzex Xivar]

PARLIAMENT | ROTHANA
​

Xazzex's gold eyes shifted from one speaker to the next as they made their voices heard. So far there appeared and overwhelming support for a response; they wouldn't be content just sitting back and watching. Exactly what she wanted. Not that she was going to admit to an on-going operation because they'd all but agreed to it. She understood operational security just as well as Jas did. You didn't become Empress of Falleen being a dunce.

"Equally important is weighing the financial cost of not launching such an offensive," the Speaker countered the Neimoidian calmly. "The Governor is right, of course." Nothing like adding a little whiplash. "The Confederacy won't rush in unaware of the capabilities of these repugnant curs. They have openly challenged us. We must assume they are prepared to commit atrocities to lay seize to R-Duba. The generous support of Hellion will enable us to learn what they can do, and more importantly where to strike for effect."

"I have heard your pleas for action. Your call to ensure the safety of not one world, but all worlds. However, with the travesty aboard the Halfway Station, R-Duba has elected to table the hand of friendship for the time being. As unfortunate as the circumstances are, they are understandable. What then would the Parliament propose this Confederacy do? To act against R-Duba's wishes might imperil future relations, but these terrorists cannot go unanswered." They might has just as well agreed to action already underway, but that was not quite the same as openly supporting it. Xazzex thought to encourage a bit of the latter now.

Xazzex set a hand calmly atop the podium. "Make no mistake, the contributions of Roon and Tao in furthering the security of the Confederacy, and those that would join them, shall be taken up in this very hall once full and comprehensive legislation can be drafted. Today, however, we must decide how best to respond to the immediate threat. To the viscous animals that hope to strike when our back is turned."

Lea Vi | Tertius C. Nargath | Danger Arceneau | Goran Nath | Phee Zti | Sentapoth Findos | Open​